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Mo H, Zhang X, Ren L. Analysis of neuroglia and immune cells in the tumor microenvironment of breast cancer brain metastasis. Cancer Biol Ther 2024; 25:2398285. [PMID: 39238191 PMCID: PMC11382727 DOI: 10.1080/15384047.2024.2398285] [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: 05/20/2024] [Revised: 08/15/2024] [Accepted: 08/26/2024] [Indexed: 09/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer stands as the most prevalent cancer diagnosed worldwide, often leading to brain metastasis, a challenging complication characterized by high mortality rates and a grim prognosis. Understanding the intricate mechanisms governing breast cancer brain metastasis (BCBM) remains an ongoing challenge. The unique microenvironment in the brain fosters an ideal setting for the colonization of breast cancer cells. The tumor microenvironment (TME) in brain metastases plays a pivotal role in the initiation and progression of BCBM, shaping the landscape for targeted therapeutic interventions. Current research primarily concentrates on unraveling the complexities of the TME in BCBM, with a particular emphasis on neuroglia and immune cells, such as microglia, monocyte-derived macrophages (MDMs), astrocytes and T cells. This comprehensive review delves deeply into these elements within the TME of BCBM, shedding light on their interplay, mechanisms, and potential as therapeutic targets to combat BCBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haixin Mo
- Clinical Experimental Center, Jiangmen Engineering Technology Research Center of Clinical Biobank and Translational Research, Jiangmen Central Hospital, Jiangmen, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Clinical Experimental Center, Jiangmen Engineering Technology Research Center of Clinical Biobank and Translational Research, Jiangmen Central Hospital, Jiangmen, China
- Dongguan Key Laboratory of Medical Bioactive Molecular Developmental and Translational Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Antitumor Active Substance Research and Development, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, Guangdong, China
| | - Liangliang Ren
- Clinical Experimental Center, Jiangmen Engineering Technology Research Center of Clinical Biobank and Translational Research, Jiangmen Central Hospital, Jiangmen, China
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2
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Tang M, Liang K, Duan W, Xia S, Shi D, Li E, Liu W, Wang Q. Reactive astrocytes promote tumor progression by up-regulating tumor protocadherin 1 expression in lung cancer brain metastasis. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2024; 732:150431. [PMID: 39047401 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2024.150431] [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: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 07/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Brain metastasis (BM) is one of the main causes of death in patients with non-small cell lung carcinoma. The specific pathological processes of BM, which are inextricably linked to the brain tumor microenvironment, such as the abundance of astrocytes, lead to limited treatment options and poor prognosis. Reactive astrocytes are acquired in the BM; however, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. This study aimed to explore the mechanisms by which astrocytes promote BM development. We determined the crucial role of reactive astrocytes in promoting the proliferation and migration of brain metastatic lung tumor cells by upregulating protocadherin 1 (PCDH1) expression in an in vitro co-culture model. The overexpression of PCDH1 was confirmed in clinical BM samples using immunohistochemical staining. Survival analysis indicated that high-PCDH1 expression was associated with poor survival in patients with lung adenocarcinoma. In vivo assays further showed that silence of PCDH1 effectively inhibited the tumor progression of brain metastases and prolonged the survival of animals. RNA sequencing has revealed that PCDH1 plays an important role in cell proliferation and adhesion. In conclusion, the present study revealed the promoting role of astrocytes in enhancing the aggressive phenotype of brain metastatic tumor cells by regulating the expression of PCDH1, which might be a biomarker for BM diagnosis and prognosis, suggesting the potential efficacy of targeting important astrocyte-tumor interactions in the treatment of patients with non-small cell lung carcinoma with BM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengyi Tang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Kun Liang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Wenzhe Duan
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Shengkai Xia
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Dongmei Shi
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Encheng Li
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China.
| | - Wenwen Liu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China; Cancer Translational Medicine Research Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China.
| | - Qi Wang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China; Cancer Translational Medicine Research Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China.
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3
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Monteran L, Zait Y, Erez N. It's all about the base: stromal cells are central orchestrators of metastasis. Trends Cancer 2024; 10:208-229. [PMID: 38072691 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2023.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2024]
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is an integral part of tumors and plays a central role in all stages of carcinogenesis and progression. Each organ has a unique and heterogeneous microenvironment, which affects the ability of disseminated cells to grow in the new and sometimes hostile metastatic niche. Resident stromal cells, such as fibroblasts, osteoblasts, and astrocytes, are essential culprits in the modulation of metastatic progression: they transition from being sentinels of tissue integrity to being dysfunctional perpetrators that support metastatic outgrowth. Therefore, better understanding of the complexity of their reciprocal interactions with cancer cells and with other components of the TME is essential to enable the design of novel therapeutic approaches to prevent metastatic relapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lea Monteran
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Yael Zait
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Neta Erez
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
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4
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Kim D, Yi JH, Park Y, Kim SJ, Kang SG, Kim SH, Chun JH, Chang JH, Yun M. 11 C-Acetate PET/CT for Reactive Astrogliosis Outperforms 11 C-Methionine PET/CT in Glioma Classification and Survival Prediction. Clin Nucl Med 2024; 49:109-115. [PMID: 38049976 DOI: 10.1097/rlu.0000000000004991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE 11 C-acetate (ACE) PET/CT visualizes reactive astrogliosis in tumor microenvironment. This study compared 11 C-ACE and 11 C-methionine (MET) PET/CT for glioma classification and predicting patient survival. PATIENTS AND METHODS In this prospective study, a total of 142 patients with cerebral gliomas underwent preoperative MRI, 11 C-MET PET/CT, and 11 C-ACE PET/CT. Tumor-to-contralateral cortex (TNR MET ) and tumor-to-choroid plexus ratios (TNR ACE ) were calculated for 11 C-MET and 11 C-ACE. The Kruskal-Wallis test and Bonferroni post hoc analysis were used to compare the differences in 11 C-TNR MET and 11 C-TNR ACE . The Cox proportional hazards regression analysis and classification and regression tree models were used to assess progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). RESULTS The median 11 C-TNR MET and 11 C-TNR ACE for oligodendrogliomas (ODs), IDH1 -mutant astrocytomas, IDH1 -wildtype astrocytomas, and glioblastomas were 2.75, 1.40, 2.30, and 3.70, respectively, and 1.40, 1.20, 1.77, and 2.87, respectively. The median 11 C-TNR MET was significantly different among the groups, except between ODs and IDH1 -wildtype astrocytomas, whereas the median 11 C-TNR ACE was significantly different among all groups. The classification and regression tree model identified 4 risk groups ( IDH1 -mutant with 11 C-TNR ACE ≤ 1.4, IDH1 -mutant with 11 C-TNR ACE > 1.4, IDH1 -wildtype with 11 C-TNR ACE ≤ 1.8, and IDH1 -wildtype with 11 C-TNR ACE > 1.8), with median PFS of 52.7, 44.5, 25.9, and 8.9 months, respectively. Using a 11 C-TNR ACE cutoff of 1.4 for IDH1 -mutant gliomas and a 11 C-TNR ACE cutoff of 2.0 for IDH1 -wildtype gliomas, all gliomas were divided into 4 groups with median OS of 52.7, 46.8, 27.6, and 12.0 months, respectively. Significant differences in PFS and OS were observed among the 4 groups after correcting for multiple comparisons. CONCLUSIONS 11 C-ACE PET/CT is better for glioma classification and survival prediction than 11 C-MET PET/CT, highlighting its potential role in cerebral glioma patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongwoo Kim
- From the Department of Nuclear Medicine, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine
| | - Ju Hyeon Yi
- Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul
| | | | - Sun Jung Kim
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, National Health Insurance Service Ilsan Hospital, Goyang
| | | | - Se Hoon Kim
- Pathology, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Joong-Hyun Chun
- From the Department of Nuclear Medicine, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine
| | | | - Mijin Yun
- From the Department of Nuclear Medicine, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine
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5
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Zhou D, Gong Z, Wu D, Ma C, Hou L, Niu X, Xu T. Harnessing immunotherapy for brain metastases: insights into tumor-brain microenvironment interactions and emerging treatment modalities. J Hematol Oncol 2023; 16:121. [PMID: 38104104 PMCID: PMC10725587 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-023-01518-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain metastases signify a deleterious milestone in the progression of several advanced cancers, predominantly originating from lung, breast and melanoma malignancies, with a median survival timeframe nearing six months. Existing therapeutic regimens yield suboptimal outcomes; however, burgeoning insights into the tumor microenvironment, particularly the immunosuppressive milieu engendered by tumor-brain interplay, posit immunotherapy as a promising avenue for ameliorating brain metastases. In this review, we meticulously delineate the research advancements concerning the microenvironment of brain metastases, striving to elucidate the panorama of their onset and evolution. We encapsulate three emergent immunotherapeutic strategies, namely immune checkpoint inhibition, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell transplantation and glial cell-targeted immunoenhancement. We underscore the imperative of aligning immunotherapy development with in-depth understanding of the tumor microenvironment and engendering innovative delivery platforms. Moreover, the integration with established or avant-garde physical methodologies and localized applications warrants consideration in the prevailing therapeutic schema.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dairan Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, 415 Fengyang Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai, 200003, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhenyu Gong
- Department of Neurosurgery, Klinikum Rechts Der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, 81675, Germany
| | - Dejun Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230601, Anhui, People's Republic of China
| | - Chao Ma
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230601, Anhui, People's Republic of China
| | - Lijun Hou
- Department of Neurosurgery, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, 415 Fengyang Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai, 200003, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaomin Niu
- Department of Shanghai Lung Cancer Center, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 241 Huaihai West Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200030, People's Republic of China.
| | - Tao Xu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, 415 Fengyang Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai, 200003, People's Republic of China.
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Chakraborty S, Banerjee S. Understanding crosstalk of organ tropism, tumor microenvironment and noncoding RNAs in breast cancer metastasis. Mol Biol Rep 2023; 50:9601-9623. [PMID: 37792172 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-08852-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
Cancer metastasis is one of the major clinical challenges worldwide due to limited existing effective treatments. Metastasis roots from the host organ of origin and gradually migrates to different regional and distant organs. In different breast cancer subtypes, different organs like bones, liver, lungs and brain are targeted by the metastatic tumor cells. Cancer renders mortality to their respective metastasizing sites like bones, brain, liver, and lungs. Metastatic breast cancers are best treated and managed if detected at an early stage. Metastasis is regulated by various molecular activators and suppressors. The conventional theory of 'seed and soil' states that metastatic tumor cells move to tumor microenvironment that has favorable conditions like blood flow for them to grow just like seeds grows when planted in fertile land. Additionally, different coding as well as non-coding RNAs play a very significant role in the process of metastasis by modulating their expression levels leading to a crosstalk of various tumorigenic cascades. Treatments for metastasis is also very critical in controlling this lethal process. Detecting breast cancer metastasis at an early stage is crucial for managing and predicting metastatic progression. In this review, we have compiled several factors that can be targeted to manage the onset and gradual stages of breast cancer metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sohini Chakraborty
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, 632014, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Satarupa Banerjee
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, 632014, Tamil Nadu, India.
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7
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Rigg E, Wang J, Xue Z, Lunavat TR, Liu G, Hoang T, Parajuli H, Han M, Bjerkvig R, Nazarov PV, Nicot N, Kreis S, Margue C, Nomigni MT, Utikal J, Miletic H, Sundstrøm T, Ystaas LAR, Li X, Thorsen F. Inhibition of extracellular vesicle-derived miR-146a-5p decreases progression of melanoma brain metastasis via Notch pathway dysregulation in astrocytes. J Extracell Vesicles 2023; 12:e12363. [PMID: 37759347 PMCID: PMC10533779 DOI: 10.1002/jev2.12363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Melanoma has the highest propensity of all cancers to metastasize to the brain with a large percentage of late-stage patients developing metastases in the central nervous system (CNS). It is well known that metastasis establishment, cell survival, and progression are affected by tumour-host cell interactions where changes in the host cellular compartments likely play an important role. In this context, miRNAs transferred by tumour derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) have previously been shown to create a favourable tumour microenvironment. Here, we show that miR-146a-5p is highly expressed in human melanoma brain metastasis (MBM) EVs, both in MBM cell lines as well as in biopsies, thereby modulating the brain metastatic niche. Mechanistically, miR-146a-5p was transferred to astrocytes via EV delivery and inhibited NUMB in the Notch signalling pathway. This resulted in activation of tumour-promoting cytokines (IL-6, IL-8, MCP-1 and CXCL1). Brain metastases were significantly reduced following miR-146a-5p knockdown. Corroborating these findings, miR-146a-5p inhibition led to a reduction of IL-6, IL-8, MCP-1 and CXCL1 in astrocytes. Following molecular docking analysis, deserpidine was identified as a functional miR-146a-5p inhibitor, both in vitro and in vivo. Our results highlight the pro-metastatic function of miR-146a-5p in EVs and identifies deserpidine for targeted adjuvant treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Rigg
- Department of BiomedicineUniversity of BergenBergenNorway
| | - Jiwei Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University and Institute of Brain and Brain‐Inspired Science, Cheeloo College of MedicineShandong UniversityJinanChina
- Department of BiomedicineUniversity of BergenBergenNorway
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Brain Function RemodelingJinanChina
| | - Zhiwei Xue
- Department of BiomedicineUniversity of BergenBergenNorway
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Brain Function RemodelingJinanChina
| | - Taral R. Lunavat
- Department of BiomedicineUniversity of BergenBergenNorway
- Department of Neurology, Molecular Neurogenetics Unit‐West, Massachusetts General HospitalHarvard Medical SchoolCharlestownMassachusettsUSA
| | - Guowei Liu
- Department of BiomedicineUniversity of BergenBergenNorway
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Brain Function RemodelingJinanChina
| | - Tuyen Hoang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University and Institute of Brain and Brain‐Inspired Science, Cheeloo College of MedicineShandong UniversityJinanChina
| | - Himalaya Parajuli
- Department of Neurosurgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University and Institute of Brain and Brain‐Inspired Science, Cheeloo College of MedicineShandong UniversityJinanChina
| | - Mingzhi Han
- Department of Neurosurgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University and Institute of Brain and Brain‐Inspired Science, Cheeloo College of MedicineShandong UniversityJinanChina
- Department of BiomedicineUniversity of BergenBergenNorway
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Brain Function RemodelingJinanChina
| | - Rolf Bjerkvig
- Department of Neurosurgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University and Institute of Brain and Brain‐Inspired Science, Cheeloo College of MedicineShandong UniversityJinanChina
| | - Petr V. Nazarov
- Bioinformatics Platform and Multiomics Data Science Research Group, Department of Cancer ResearchLuxembourg Institute of HealthLuxembourg
| | - Nathalie Nicot
- LuxGen Genome Center, Luxembourg Institute of HealthLaboratoire National de SantéDudelangeLuxembourg
| | - Stephanie Kreis
- Department of Life Sciences and MedicineUniversity of LuxembourgLuxembourg
| | - Christiane Margue
- Department of Life Sciences and MedicineUniversity of LuxembourgLuxembourg
| | | | - Jochen Utikal
- Skin Cancer UnitGerman Cancer Research Center (DKFZ)HeidelbergGermany
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and AllergologyUniversity Medical Center Mannheim, Ruprecht‐Karl University of HeidelbergMannheimGermany
- DKFZ Hector Cancer Institute at the University Medical Center MannheimMannheimGermany
| | - Hrvoje Miletic
- Department of Neurosurgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University and Institute of Brain and Brain‐Inspired Science, Cheeloo College of MedicineShandong UniversityJinanChina
- Department of PathologyHaukeland University HospitalBergenNorway
| | - Terje Sundstrøm
- Department of NeurosurgeryHaukeland University HospitalBergenNorway
- Department of Clinical MedicineUniversity of BergenBergenNorway
| | - Lars A. R. Ystaas
- Department of Neurosurgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University and Institute of Brain and Brain‐Inspired Science, Cheeloo College of MedicineShandong UniversityJinanChina
| | - Xingang Li
- Department of BiomedicineUniversity of BergenBergenNorway
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Brain Function RemodelingJinanChina
| | - Frits Thorsen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University and Institute of Brain and Brain‐Inspired Science, Cheeloo College of MedicineShandong UniversityJinanChina
- Department of BiomedicineUniversity of BergenBergenNorway
- Department of NeurosurgeryHaukeland University HospitalBergenNorway
- Molecular Imaging Center, Department of BiomedicineUniversity of BergenBergenNorway
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Mészáros Á, Molnár K, Fazakas C, Nógrádi B, Lüvi A, Dudás T, Tiszlavicz L, Farkas AE, Krizbai IA, Wilhelm I. Inflammasome activation in peritumoral astrocytes is a key player in breast cancer brain metastasis development. Acta Neuropathol Commun 2023; 11:155. [PMID: 37749707 PMCID: PMC10521486 DOI: 10.1186/s40478-023-01646-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Inflammasomes, primarily responsible for the activation of IL-1β, have emerged as critical regulators of the tumor microenvironment. By using in vivo and in vitro brain metastasis models, as well as human samples to study the role of the NLRP3 inflammasome in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) brain metastases, we found NLRP3 inflammasome components and IL-1β to be highly and specifically expressed in peritumoral astrocytes. Soluble factors from TNBC cells induced upregulation and activation of NLRP3 and IL-1β in astrocytes, while astrocyte-derived mediators augmented the proliferation of metastatic cells. In addition, inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome activity using MCC950 or dampening the downstream effect of IL-1β prevented the proliferation increase in cancer cells. In vivo, MCC950 reduced IL-1β expression in peritumoral astrocytes, as well as the levels of inflammasome components and active IL-1β. Most importantly, significantly retarded growth of brain metastatic tumors was observed in mice treated with MCC950. Overall, astrocytes contribute to TNBC progression in the brain through activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome and consequent IL-1β release. We conclude that pharmacological targeting of inflammasomes may become a novel strategy in controlling brain metastatic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ádám Mészáros
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, ELKH (Eötvös Loránd Research Network), Temesvári Krt. 62, 6726, Szeged, Hungary
- Doctoral School of Biology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Kinga Molnár
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, ELKH (Eötvös Loránd Research Network), Temesvári Krt. 62, 6726, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Csilla Fazakas
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, ELKH (Eötvös Loránd Research Network), Temesvári Krt. 62, 6726, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Bernát Nógrádi
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, ELKH (Eötvös Loránd Research Network), Temesvári Krt. 62, 6726, Szeged, Hungary
- Department of Neurology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Adél Lüvi
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, ELKH (Eötvös Loránd Research Network), Temesvári Krt. 62, 6726, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Tamás Dudás
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, ELKH (Eötvös Loránd Research Network), Temesvári Krt. 62, 6726, Szeged, Hungary
- Theoretical Medicine Doctoral School, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | | | - Attila Elek Farkas
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, ELKH (Eötvös Loránd Research Network), Temesvári Krt. 62, 6726, Szeged, Hungary
| | - István Adorján Krizbai
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, ELKH (Eötvös Loránd Research Network), Temesvári Krt. 62, 6726, Szeged, Hungary.
- Institute of Life Sciences, Vasile Goldiş Western University of Arad, Arad, Romania.
| | - Imola Wilhelm
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, ELKH (Eötvös Loránd Research Network), Temesvári Krt. 62, 6726, Szeged, Hungary.
- Institute of Life Sciences, Vasile Goldiş Western University of Arad, Arad, Romania.
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9
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McDonald B, Barth K, Schmidt MHH. The origin of brain malignancies at the blood-brain barrier. Cell Mol Life Sci 2023; 80:282. [PMID: 37688612 PMCID: PMC10492883 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-023-04934-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023]
Abstract
Despite improvements in extracranial therapy, survival rate for patients suffering from brain metastases remains very poor. This is coupled with the incidence of brain metastases continuing to rise. In this review, we focus on core contributions of the blood-brain barrier to the origin of brain metastases. We first provide an overview of the structure and function of the blood-brain barrier under physiological conditions. Next, we discuss the emerging idea of a pre-metastatic niche, namely that secreted factors and extracellular vesicles from a primary tumor site are able to travel through the circulation and prime the neurovasculature for metastatic invasion. We then consider the neurotropic mechanisms that circulating tumor cells possess or develop that facilitate disruption of the blood-brain barrier and survival in the brain's parenchyma. Finally, we compare and contrast brain metastases at the blood-brain barrier to the primary brain tumor, glioma, examining the process of vessel co-option that favors the survival and outgrowth of brain malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brennan McDonald
- Institute of Anatomy, Medical Faculty Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden School of Medicine, Dresden, Germany.
| | - Kathrin Barth
- Institute of Anatomy, Medical Faculty Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden School of Medicine, Dresden, Germany
| | - Mirko H H Schmidt
- Institute of Anatomy, Medical Faculty Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden School of Medicine, Dresden, Germany
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10
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Terceiro LEL, Ikeogu NM, Lima MF, Edechi CA, Nickel BE, Fischer G, Leygue E, McManus KJ, Myal Y. Navigating the Blood-Brain Barrier: Challenges and Therapeutic Strategies in Breast Cancer Brain Metastases. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12034. [PMID: 37569410 PMCID: PMC10418424 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241512034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is the most common cancer in women, with metastatic BC being responsible for the highest number of deaths. A frequent site for BC metastasis is the brain. Brain metastasis derived from BC involves the cooperation of multiple genetic, epigenetic, angiogenic, and tumor-stroma interactions. Most of these interactions provide a unique opportunity for development of new therapeutic targets. Potentially targetable signaling pathways are Notch, Wnt, and the epidermal growth factor receptors signaling pathways, all of which are linked to driving BC brain metastasis (BCBM). However, a major challenge in treating brain metastasis remains the blood-brain barrier (BBB). This barrier restricts the access of unwanted molecules, cells, and targeted therapies to the brain parenchyma. Moreover, current therapies to treat brain metastases, such as stereotactic radiosurgery and whole-brain radiotherapy, have limited efficacy. Promising new drugs like phosphatase and kinase modulators, as well as BBB disruptors and immunotherapeutic strategies, have shown the potential to ease the disease in preclinical studies, but remain limited by multiple resistance mechanisms. This review summarizes some of the current understanding of the mechanisms involved in BC brain metastasis and highlights current challenges as well as opportunities in strategic designs of potentially successful future therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas E. L. Terceiro
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 3P5, Canada; (L.E.L.T.); (C.A.E.); (B.E.N.); (G.F.)
| | - Nnamdi M. Ikeogu
- Department of Immunology, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0T5, Canada;
| | - Matheus F. Lima
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, CancerCare Manitoba Research Institute, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V9, Canada;
| | - Chidalu A. Edechi
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 3P5, Canada; (L.E.L.T.); (C.A.E.); (B.E.N.); (G.F.)
| | - Barbara E. Nickel
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 3P5, Canada; (L.E.L.T.); (C.A.E.); (B.E.N.); (G.F.)
| | - Gabor Fischer
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 3P5, Canada; (L.E.L.T.); (C.A.E.); (B.E.N.); (G.F.)
| | - Etienne Leygue
- Department of Biochemistry and Medical Genetics, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0T5, Canada; (E.L.); (K.J.M.)
| | - Kirk J. McManus
- Department of Biochemistry and Medical Genetics, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0T5, Canada; (E.L.); (K.J.M.)
- Paul Albrechtsen Research Institute, CancerCare Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V9, Canada
| | - Yvonne Myal
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 3P5, Canada; (L.E.L.T.); (C.A.E.); (B.E.N.); (G.F.)
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, CancerCare Manitoba Research Institute, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V9, Canada;
- Paul Albrechtsen Research Institute, CancerCare Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V9, Canada
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11
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Caruso A, Gelsomino L, Panza S, Accattatis FM, Naimo GD, Barone I, Giordano C, Catalano S, Andò S. Leptin: A Heavyweight Player in Obesity-Related Cancers. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1084. [PMID: 37509120 PMCID: PMC10377641 DOI: 10.3390/biom13071084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Obesity, defined as the abnormal or excessive expansion of white adipose tissue, has reached pandemic proportions and is recognized as an important health concern since it is a common root for several comorbidities, including malignancies. Indeed, the current knowledge of the white adipose tissue, which shifts its role from an energy storage tissue to an important endocrine and metabolic organ, has opened up new avenues for the discovery of obesity's effects on tumor biology. In this review, we will report the epidemiological studies concerning the strong impact of obesity in several types of cancer and describe the mechanisms underlying the heterotypic signals between cancer cell lines and adipocytes, with particular emphasis on inflammation, the insulin/IGF-1 axis, and adipokines. Among the adipokines, we will further describe the in vitro, in vivo, and clinical data concerning the role of leptin, recognized as one of the most important mediators of obesity-associated cancers. In fact, leptin physiologically regulates energy metabolism, appetite, and reproduction, and several studies have also described the role of leptin in affecting cancer development and progression. Finally, we will summarize the newest pharmacological strategies aimed at mitigating the protumorigenic effects of leptin, underlining their mechanisms of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Caruso
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, Via P Bucci, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), 87036 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Luca Gelsomino
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, Via P Bucci, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), 87036 Cosenza, Italy
- Centro Sanitario, Via P. Bucci, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), 87036 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Salvatore Panza
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, Via P Bucci, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), 87036 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Felice Maria Accattatis
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, Via P Bucci, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), 87036 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Daniela Naimo
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, Via P Bucci, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), 87036 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Ines Barone
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, Via P Bucci, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), 87036 Cosenza, Italy
- Centro Sanitario, Via P. Bucci, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), 87036 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Cinzia Giordano
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, Via P Bucci, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), 87036 Cosenza, Italy
- Centro Sanitario, Via P. Bucci, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), 87036 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Stefania Catalano
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, Via P Bucci, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), 87036 Cosenza, Italy
- Centro Sanitario, Via P. Bucci, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), 87036 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Sebastiano Andò
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, Via P Bucci, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), 87036 Cosenza, Italy
- Centro Sanitario, Via P. Bucci, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende (CS), 87036 Cosenza, Italy
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12
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Benjamin M, Malakar P, Sinha RA, Nasser MW, Batra SK, Siddiqui JA, Chakravarti B. Molecular signaling network and therapeutic developments in breast cancer brain metastasis. ADVANCES IN CANCER BIOLOGY - METASTASIS 2023; 7:100079. [PMID: 36536947 PMCID: PMC7613958 DOI: 10.1016/j.adcanc.2022.100079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is one of the most frequently diagnosed cancers in women worldwide. It has surpassed lung cancer as the leading cause of cancer-related death. Breast cancer brain metastasis (BCBM) is becoming a major clinical concern that is commonly associated with ER-ve and HER2+ve subtypes of BC patients. Metastatic lesions in the brain originate when the cancer cells detach from a primary breast tumor and establish metastatic lesions and infiltrate near and distant organs via systemic blood circulation by traversing the BBB. The colonization of BC cells in the brain involves a complex interplay in the tumor microenvironment (TME), metastatic cells, and brain cells like endothelial cells, microglia, and astrocytes. BCBM is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality and presents a challenge to developing successful cancer therapy. In this review, we discuss the molecular mechanism of BCBM and novel therapeutic strategies for patients with brain metastatic BC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mercilena Benjamin
- Lab Oncology, Dr. B.R.A.I.R.C.H. All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Pushkar Malakar
- Department of Biomedical Science and Technology, School of Biological Sciences, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Narendrapur, West Bengal, 700103, India
| | - Rohit Anthony Sinha
- Department of Endocrinology, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, 226014, India
| | - Mohd Wasim Nasser
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
- Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68108, USA
| | - Surinder K. Batra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
- Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68108, USA
| | - Jawed Akhtar Siddiqui
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
- Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68108, USA
| | - Bandana Chakravarti
- Department of Endocrinology, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, 226014, India
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13
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Kim AE, Nieblas-Bedolla E, de Sauvage MA, Brastianos PK. Leveraging translational insights toward precision medicine approaches for brain metastases. NATURE CANCER 2023; 4:955-967. [PMID: 37491527 PMCID: PMC10644911 DOI: 10.1038/s43018-023-00585-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
Due to increasing incidence and limited treatments, brain metastases (BM) are an emerging unmet need in modern oncology. Development of effective therapeutics has been hindered by unique challenges. Individual steps of the brain metastatic cascade are driven by distinctive biological processes, suggesting that BM possess intrinsic biological differences compared to primary tumors. Here, we discuss the unique physiology and metabolic constraints specific to BM as well as emerging treatment strategies that leverage potential vulnerabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert E Kim
- Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Edwin Nieblas-Bedolla
- Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Magali A de Sauvage
- Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Priscilla K Brastianos
- Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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14
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Farahani MK, Gharibshahian M, Rezvani A, Vaez A. Breast cancer brain metastasis: from etiology to state-of-the-art modeling. J Biol Eng 2023; 17:41. [PMID: 37386445 DOI: 10.1186/s13036-023-00352-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Currently, breast carcinoma is the most common form of malignancy and the main cause of cancer mortality in women worldwide. The metastasis of cancer cells from the primary tumor site to other organs in the body, notably the lungs, bones, brain, and liver, is what causes breast cancer to ultimately be fatal. Brain metastases occur in as many as 30% of patients with advanced breast cancer, and the 1-year survival rate of these patients is around 20%. Many researchers have focused on brain metastasis, but due to its complexities, many aspects of this process are still relatively unclear. To develop and test novel therapies for this fatal condition, pre-clinical models are required that can mimic the biological processes involved in breast cancer brain metastasis (BCBM). The application of many breakthroughs in the area of tissue engineering has resulted in the development of scaffold or matrix-based culture methods that more accurately imitate the original extracellular matrix (ECM) of metastatic tumors. Furthermore, specific cell lines are now being used to create three-dimensional (3D) cultures that can be used to model metastasis. These 3D cultures satisfy the requirement for in vitro methodologies that allow for a more accurate investigation of the molecular pathways as well as a more in-depth examination of the effects of the medication being tested. In this review, we talk about the latest advances in modeling BCBM using cell lines, animals, and tissue engineering methods.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maliheh Gharibshahian
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | - Alireza Rezvani
- Hematology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Ahmad Vaez
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
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15
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Chew Minmin S, Bacotti A, Chen Y, Anders C, Sambade M, Deal AM, Trembath D, McKee MJ, Brogi E, Seidman AD. Impact of prior systemic therapy on lymphocytic infiltration in surgically resected breast cancer brain metastases. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2023; 199:99-107. [PMID: 36930347 PMCID: PMC10865424 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-023-06908-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) have been positively correlated with response to systemic therapy for triple-negative and HER2 + subtypes and improved clinical outcomes in early breast cancer (BC). Less is known about TILs in metastatic sites, particularly brain metastases (BM), where unique immune regulation governs stromal composition. Reactive glial cells actively participate in cytokine-mediated T cell stimulation. The impact of prior medical therapy (chemotherapy, endocrine, and HER2-targeted therapy) on the presence of TILs and gliosis in human breast cancer brain metastases (BCBM) has not been previously reported. METHODS We examined prior treatment data for 133 patients who underwent craniotomy for resection of BMs from the electronic medical record. The primary endpoint was overall survival (OS) from the time of BM diagnosis. We examined the relationship between prior systemic therapy exposure and the histologic features of gliosis, necrosis, hemorrhage, and lymphocyte infiltration (LI) in BCBMs resected at subsequent craniotomy in univariate analyses. RESULTS Complete treatment data were available for 123 patients. BCBM LI was identified in 35 of 116 (30%) patients who had received prior systemic treatment versus 5 of 7 (71.4%) who had not {significant by Fisher's exact test p = 0.045}. There were no statistically significant relationships between prior systemic therapy and the three other histologic variables examined. CONCLUSIONS This observation suggests that systemic therapy may interfere with the immune response to BCBMs and cause exhaustion of anti-tumor immunity. This motivates clinical investigation of strategies to enhance LI for therapeutic benefit to improve outcomes for patients with BCBMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Chew Minmin
- Breast Medicine Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - A Bacotti
- Breast Medicine Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Y Chen
- Breast Medicine Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - C Anders
- Medical Oncology, Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - M Sambade
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - A M Deal
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - D Trembath
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - M J McKee
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - E Brogi
- Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - A D Seidman
- Breast Medicine Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
- Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA.
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16
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Xu L, Han F, Zhu L, Ding W, Zhang K, Kan C, Hou N, Li Q, Sun X. Advances in understanding the role and mechanisms of tumor stem cells in HER2-positive breast cancer treatment resistance (Review). Int J Oncol 2023; 62:48. [PMID: 36866766 PMCID: PMC9990588 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2023.5496] [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: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Approximately 15-20% of breast carcinomas exhibit human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER2) protein overexpression. HER2-positive breast cancer (BC) is a heterogeneous and aggressive subtype with poor prognosis and high relapse risk. Although several anti-HER2 drugs have achieved substantial efficacy, certain patients with HER2-positive BC relapse due to drug resistance after a treatment period. There is increasing evidence that BC stem cells (BCSCs) drive therapeutic resistance and a high rate of BC recurrence. BCSCs may regulate cellular self-renewal and differentiation, as well as invasive metastasis and treatment resistance. Efforts to target BCSCs may yield new methods to improve patient outcomes. In the present review, the roles of BCSCs in the occurrence, development and management of BC treatment resistance were summarized; BCSC-targeted strategies for the treatment of HER2-positive BC were also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linfei Xu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong 261031, P.R. China
- Clinical Research Center, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong 261031, P.R. China
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong 261031, P.R. China
| | - Fang Han
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong 261031, P.R. China
- Clinical Research Center, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong 261031, P.R. China
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong 261031, P.R. China
| | - Liang Zhu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong 261031, P.R. China
- Clinical Research Center, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong 261031, P.R. China
| | - Wenli Ding
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong 261031, P.R. China
| | - Kexin Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong 261031, P.R. China
- Clinical Research Center, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong 261031, P.R. China
| | - Chengxia Kan
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong 261031, P.R. China
- Clinical Research Center, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong 261031, P.R. China
| | - Ningning Hou
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong 261031, P.R. China
- Clinical Research Center, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong 261031, P.R. China
| | - Qinying Li
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong 261031, P.R. China
- Clinical Research Center, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong 261031, P.R. China
| | - Xiaodong Sun
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong 261031, P.R. China
- Clinical Research Center, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong 261031, P.R. China
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17
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The Journey of Cancer Cells to the Brain: Challenges and Opportunities. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043854. [PMID: 36835266 PMCID: PMC9967224 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer metastases into the brain constitute one of the most severe, but not uncommon, manifestations of cancer progression. Several factors control how cancer cells interact with the brain to establish metastasis. These factors include mediators of signaling pathways participating in migration, infiltration of the blood-brain barrier, interaction with host cells (e.g., neurons, astrocytes), and the immune system. Development of novel therapies offers a glimpse of hope for increasing the diminutive life expectancy currently forecasted for patients suffering from brain metastasis. However, applying these treatment strategies has not been sufficiently effective. Therefore, there is a need for a better understanding of the metastasis process to uncover novel therapeutic targets. In this review, we follow the journey of various cancer cells from their primary location through the diverse processes that they undergo to colonize the brain. These processes include EMT, intravasation, extravasation, and infiltration of the blood-brain barrier, ending up with colonization and angiogenesis. In each phase, we focus on the pathways engaging molecules that potentially could be drug target candidates.
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18
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Organotropism of breast cancer metastasis: A comprehensive approach to the shared gene network. GENE REPORTS 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.genrep.2023.101749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
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19
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Sun H, Xu J, Dai S, Ma Y, Sun T. Breast cancer brain metastasis: Current evidence and future directions. Cancer Med 2023; 12:1007-1024. [PMID: 35822637 PMCID: PMC9883555 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.5021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 06/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths after lung cancer. Metastasis of the central nervous system is a terrible event for breast cancer patients, affecting their survival and quality of life. Compared with hormone receptor-positive/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative breast cancer patients, brain metastases are more likely to affect patients with triple-negative breast cancer and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-positive breast cancer. The treatment of breast cancer has improved greatly in the last two decades. However, brain metastases from breast cancer remain the leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Patients with breast cancer brain metastasis have been in an inferior position due to the lack of clinical research in this field, and they are often explicitly excluded from almost all clinical trials. The occurrence and progression of brain metastases will result in severe cognitive impairment and adverse physical consequences, so we must have a good understanding of the molecular mechanisms of breast cancer brain metastasis. In this article, we have retrieved the latest literature of molecules and pathways associated with breast cancer brain metastasis, summarized common therapy strategies, and discussed the prospects and clinical implications of targeting the molecules involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongna Sun
- Department of Medical Oncology, Liaoning Cancer Hospital & InstituteCancer Hospital of China Medical UniversityShenyangChina
| | - Junnan Xu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Liaoning Cancer Hospital & InstituteCancer Hospital of China Medical UniversityShenyangChina
| | - Shuang Dai
- Department of Medical Oncology, Lung cancer center, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduChina
| | - Yiwen Ma
- Department of Medical Oncology, Liaoning Cancer Hospital & InstituteCancer Hospital of China Medical UniversityShenyangChina
| | - Tao Sun
- Department of Medical Oncology, Liaoning Cancer Hospital & InstituteCancer Hospital of China Medical UniversityShenyangChina
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20
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Maurya SK, Khan P, Rehman AU, Kanchan RK, Perumal N, Mahapatra S, Chand HS, Santamaria-Barria JA, Batra SK, Nasser MW. Rethinking the chemokine cascade in brain metastasis: Preventive and therapeutic implications. Semin Cancer Biol 2022; 86:914-930. [PMID: 34968667 PMCID: PMC9234104 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2021.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Brain metastasis (BrM) is one of the major causes of death in cancer patients and is associated with an estimated 10-40 % of total cancer cases. The survival rate of brain metastatic patients has not improved due to intratumor heterogeneity, the survival adaptations of brain homing metastatic cells, and the lack of understanding of underlying molecular mechanisms that limit the availability of effective therapies. The heterogeneous population of immune cells and tumor-initiating cells or cancer stem cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME) release various factors, such as chemokines that upon binding to their cognate receptors enhance tumor growth at primary sites and help tumor cells metastasize to the brain. Furthermore, brain metastatic sites have unique heterogeneous microenvironment that fuels cancer cells in establishing BrM. This review explores the crosstalk of chemokines with the heterogeneous TME during the progression of BrM and recognizes potential therapeutic approaches. We also discuss and summarize different targeted, immunotherapeutic, chemotherapeutic, and combinatorial strategies (with chemo-/immune- or targeted-therapies) to attenuate chemokines mediated BrM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shailendra Kumar Maurya
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68108, USA
| | - Parvez Khan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68108, USA
| | - Asad Ur Rehman
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68108, USA
| | - Ranjana K Kanchan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68108, USA
| | - Naveenkumar Perumal
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68108, USA
| | - Sidharth Mahapatra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68108, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68108, USA; Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68108, USA
| | - Hitendra S Chand
- Department of Immunology and Nanomedicine, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL, 33199, USA
| | | | - Surinder K Batra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68108, USA; Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68108, USA; Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68108, USA
| | - Mohd Wasim Nasser
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68108, USA; Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68108, USA.
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21
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Liu D, Bai J, Chen Q, Tan R, An Z, Xiao J, Qu Y, Xu Y. Brain metastases: It takes two factors for a primary cancer to metastasize to brain. Front Oncol 2022; 12:1003715. [PMID: 36248975 PMCID: PMC9554149 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1003715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain metastasis of a cancer is a malignant disease with high mortality, but the cause and the molecular mechanism remain largely unknown. Using the samples of primary tumors of 22 cancer types in the TCGA database, we have performed a computational study of their transcriptomic data to investigate the drivers of brain metastases at the basic physics and chemistry level. Our main discoveries are: (i) the physical characteristics, namely electric charge, molecular weight, and the hydrophobicity of the extracellular structures of the expressed transmembrane proteins largely affect a primary cancer cell’s ability to cross the blood-brain barrier; and (ii) brain metastasis may require specific functions provided by the activated enzymes in the metastasizing primary cancer cells for survival in the brain micro-environment. Both predictions are supported by published experimental studies. Based on these findings, we have built a classifier to predict if a given primary cancer may have brain metastasis, achieving the accuracy level at AUC = 0.92 on large test sets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dingyun Liu
- Center for Cancer Systems Biology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- College of Computer Science and Technology, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jun Bai
- Center for Cancer Systems Biology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- School of Artificial Intelligence, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Qian Chen
- Center for Cancer Systems Biology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- College of Computer Science and Technology, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Renbo Tan
- Center for Cancer Systems Biology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- College of Computer Science and Technology, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Zheng An
- Center for Cancer Systems Biology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- Computational Systems Biology Lab, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Institute of Bioinformatics, The University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
| | - Jun Xiao
- Center for Cancer Systems Biology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- College of Computer Science and Technology, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yingwei Qu
- Center for Cancer Systems Biology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- College of Computer Science and Technology, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Ying Xu
- Center for Cancer Systems Biology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- Computational Systems Biology Lab, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Institute of Bioinformatics, The University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
- *Correspondence: Ying Xu,
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22
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Tyagi A, Wu SY, Watabe K. Metabolism in the progression and metastasis of brain tumors. Cancer Lett 2022; 539:215713. [PMID: 35513201 PMCID: PMC9999298 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2022.215713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Malignant brain tumors and metastases pose significant health problems and cause substantial morbidity and mortality in children and adults. Based on epidemiological evidence, gliomas comprise 30% and 80% of primary brain tumors and malignant tumors, respectively. Brain metastases affect 15-30% of cancer patients, particularly primary tumors of the lung, breast, colon, and kidney, and melanoma. Despite advancements in multimodal molecular targeted therapy and immunotherapy that do not ensure long-term treatment, malignant brain tumors and metastases contribute significantly to cancer related mortality. Recent studies have shown that metastatic cancer cells possess distinct metabolic traits to adapt and survive in new environment that differs significantly from the primary site in both nutrient composition and availability. As metabolic regulation lies at the intersection of many research areas, concerted efforts to understand the metabolic mechanism(s) driving malignant brain tumors and metastases may reveal novel therapeutic targets to prevent or reduce metastasis and predict biomarkers for the treatment of this aggressive disease. This review focuses on various aspects of metabolic signaling, interface between metabolic regulators and cellular processes, and implications of their dysregulation in the context of brain tumors and metastases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek Tyagi
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA
| | - Shih-Ying Wu
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA
| | - Kounosuke Watabe
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA.
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23
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Siegl F, Vecera M, Roskova I, Smrcka M, Jancalek R, Kazda T, Slaby O, Sana J. The Significance of MicroRNAs in the Molecular Pathology of Brain Metastases. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14143386. [PMID: 35884446 PMCID: PMC9322877 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14143386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain metastases are the most frequent intracranial tumors in adults and the cause of death in almost one-fourth of cases. The incidence of brain metastases is steadily increasing. The main reason for this increase could be the introduction of new and more efficient therapeutic strategies that lead to longer survival but, at the same time, cause a higher risk of brain parenchyma infiltration. In addition, the advances in imaging methodology, which provide earlier identification of brain metastases, may also be a reason for the higher recorded number of patients with these tumors. Metastasis is a complex biological process that is still largely unexplored, influenced by many factors and involving many molecules. A deeper understanding of the process will allow the discovery of more effective diagnostic and therapeutic approaches that could improve the quality and length of patient survival. Recent studies have shown that microRNAs (miRNAs) are essential molecules that are involved in specific steps of the metastatic cascade. MiRNAs are endogenously expressed small non-coding RNAs that act as post-transcriptional regulators of gene expression and thus regulate most cellular processes. The dysregulation of these molecules has been implicated in many cancers, including brain metastases. Therefore, miRNAs represent promising diagnostic molecules and therapeutic targets in brain metastases. This review summarizes the current knowledge on the importance of miRNAs in brain metastasis, focusing on their involvement in the metastatic cascade and their potential clinical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frantisek Siegl
- Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic; (F.S.); (M.V.); (O.S.)
| | - Marek Vecera
- Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic; (F.S.); (M.V.); (O.S.)
| | - Ivana Roskova
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Brno and Faculty of Medicine of Masaryk University, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic; (I.R.); (M.S.)
| | - Martin Smrcka
- Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Brno and Faculty of Medicine of Masaryk University, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic; (I.R.); (M.S.)
| | - Radim Jancalek
- Department of Neurosurgery, St. Annes University Hospital Brno and Faculty of Medicine of Masaryk University, 656 91 Brno, Czech Republic;
| | - Tomas Kazda
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Masaryk Memorial Cancer Institute and Faculty of Medicine of Masaryk University, 656 53 Brno, Czech Republic;
| | - Ondrej Slaby
- Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic; (F.S.); (M.V.); (O.S.)
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jiri Sana
- Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic; (F.S.); (M.V.); (O.S.)
- Department of Comprehensive Cancer Care, Masaryk Memorial Cancer Institute and Faculty of Medicine of Masaryk University, 656 53 Brno, Czech Republic
- Department of Pathology, University Hospital Brno, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +420-549-495-246
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24
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Baumann Z, Auf der Maur P, Bentires‐Alj M. Feed-forward loops between metastatic cancer cells and their microenvironment-the stage of escalation. EMBO Mol Med 2022; 14:e14283. [PMID: 35506376 PMCID: PMC9174884 DOI: 10.15252/emmm.202114283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most frequent cancer among women, and metastases in distant organs are the leading cause of the cancer-related deaths. While survival of early-stage breast cancer patients has increased dramatically, the 5-year survival rate of metastatic patients has barely improved in the last 20 years. Metastases can arise up to decades after primary tumor resection, hinting at microenvironmental factors influencing the sudden outgrowth of disseminated tumor cells (DTCs). This review summarizes how the environment of the most common metastatic sites (lung, liver, bone, brain) is influenced by the primary tumor and by the varying dormancy of DTCs, with a special focus on how established metastases persist and grow in distant organs due to feed-forward loops (FFLs). We discuss in detail the importance of FFL of cancer cells with their microenvironment including the secretome, interaction with specialized tissue-specific cells, nutrients/metabolites, and that novel therapies should target not only the cancer cells but also the tumor microenvironment, which are thick as thieves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zora Baumann
- Tumor Heterogeneity Metastasis and ResistanceDepartment of BiomedicineUniversity Hospital BaselUniversity of BaselBaselSwitzerland
| | - Priska Auf der Maur
- Tumor Heterogeneity Metastasis and ResistanceDepartment of BiomedicineUniversity Hospital BaselUniversity of BaselBaselSwitzerland
| | - Mohamed Bentires‐Alj
- Tumor Heterogeneity Metastasis and ResistanceDepartment of BiomedicineUniversity Hospital BaselUniversity of BaselBaselSwitzerland
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25
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Giuli MV, Mancusi A, Giuliani E, Screpanti I, Checquolo S. Notch signaling in female cancers: a multifaceted node to overcome drug resistance. CANCER DRUG RESISTANCE (ALHAMBRA, CALIF.) 2022; 4:805-836. [PMID: 35582386 PMCID: PMC8992449 DOI: 10.20517/cdr.2021.53] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Drug resistance is one of the main challenges in cancer therapy, including in the treatment of female-specific malignancies, which account for more than 60% of cancer cases among women. Therefore, elucidating the underlying molecular mechanisms is an urgent need in gynecological cancers to foster novel therapeutic approaches. Notably, Notch signaling, including either receptors or ligands, has emerged as a promising candidate given its multifaceted role in almost all of the hallmarks of cancer. Concerning the connection between Notch pathway and drug resistance in the afore-mentioned tumor contexts, several studies focused on the Notch-dependent regulation of the cancer stem cell (CSC) subpopulation or the induction of the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), both features implicated in either intrinsic or acquired resistance. Indeed, the present review provides an up-to-date overview of the published results on Notch signaling and EMT- or CSC-driven drug resistance. Moreover, other drug resistance-related mechanisms are examined such as the involvement of the Notch pathway in drug efflux and tumor microenvironment. Collectively, there is a long way to go before every facet will be fully understood; nevertheless, some small pieces are falling neatly into place. Overall, the main aim of this review is to provide strong evidence in support of Notch signaling inhibition as an effective strategy to evade or reverse resistance in female-specific cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria V Giuli
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Angelica Mancusi
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Eugenia Giuliani
- Scientific Direction, San Gallicano Dermatological Institute IRCCS, Rome 00144, Italy
| | - Isabella Screpanti
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Saula Checquolo
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnology, Sapienza University, Latina 04100, Italy.,Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rome 00161, Italy
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26
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Strickland MR, Alvarez-Breckenridge C, Gainor JF, Brastianos PK. Tumor Immune Microenvironment of Brain Metastases: Toward Unlocking Antitumor Immunity. Cancer Discov 2022; 12:1199-1216. [PMID: 35394521 PMCID: PMC11440428 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-21-0976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Revised: 12/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Brain metastasis (BrM) is a devastating complication of solid tumors associated with poor outcomes. Immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) have revolutionized the treatment of cancer, but determinants of response are incompletely understood. Given the rising incidence of BrM, improved understanding of immunobiologic principles unique to the central nervous system (CNS) and dissection of those that govern the activity of ICIs are paramount toward unlocking BrM-specific antitumor immunity. In this review, we seek to discuss the current clinical landscape of ICI activity in the CNS and CNS immunobiology, and we focus, in particular, on the role of glial cells in the CNS immune response to BrM. SIGNIFICANCE There is an urgent need to improve patient selection for and clinical activity of ICIs in patients with cancer with concomitant BrM. Increased understanding of the unique immunobiologic principles that govern response to ICIs in the CNS is critical toward identifying targets in the tumor microenvironment that may potentiate antitumor immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Justin F Gainor
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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27
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Knier NN, Pellizzari S, Zhou J, Foster PJ, Parsyan A. Preclinical Models of Brain Metastases in Breast Cancer. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10030667. [PMID: 35327469 PMCID: PMC8945440 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10030667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer remains a leading cause of mortality among women worldwide. Brain metastases confer extremely poor prognosis due to a lack of understanding of their specific biology, unique physiologic and anatomic features of the brain, and limited treatment strategies. A major roadblock in advancing the treatment of breast cancer brain metastases (BCBM) is the scarcity of representative experimental preclinical models. Current models are predominantly based on the use of animal xenograft models with immortalized breast cancer cell lines that poorly capture the disease’s heterogeneity. Recent years have witnessed the development of patient-derived in vitro and in vivo breast cancer culturing systems that more closely recapitulate the biology from individual patients. These advances led to the development of modern patient-tissue-based experimental models for BCBM. The success of preclinical models is also based on the imaging technologies used to detect metastases. Advances in animal brain imaging, including cellular MRI and multimodality imaging, allow sensitive and specific detection of brain metastases and monitoring treatment responses. These imaging technologies, together with novel translational breast cancer models based on patient-derived cancer tissues, represent a unique opportunity to advance our understanding of brain metastases biology and develop novel treatment approaches. This review discusses the state-of-the-art knowledge in preclinical models of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha N. Knier
- Department of Medical Biophysics, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada; (N.N.K.); (P.J.F.)
- Imaging Laboratories, Robarts Research Institute, London, ON N6A 5B7, Canada
| | - Sierra Pellizzari
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada;
| | - Jiangbing Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06510, USA;
| | - Paula J. Foster
- Department of Medical Biophysics, Western University, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada; (N.N.K.); (P.J.F.)
- Imaging Laboratories, Robarts Research Institute, London, ON N6A 5B7, Canada
| | - Armen Parsyan
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada;
- London Regional Cancer Program, London Health Science Centre, London, ON N6A 5W9, Canada
- Department of Oncology, Western University, London, ON N6A 4L6, Canada
- Department of Surgery, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-519-646-4831; Fax: +1-519-646-6327
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28
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Motallebnejad P, Rajesh VV, Azarin SM. Evaluating the Role of IL-1β in Transmigration of Triple Negative Breast Cancer Cells Across the Brain Endothelium. Cell Mol Bioeng 2022; 15:99-114. [PMID: 35096187 PMCID: PMC8761198 DOI: 10.1007/s12195-021-00710-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In vivo, breast cancer cells spend on average 3-7 days adhered to the endothelial cells inside the vascular lumen before entering the brain. IL-1β is one of the highly upregulated molecules in brain-seeking triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells. In this study, the effect of IL-1β on the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and astrocytes and its role in transmigration of TNBC cells were evaluated. METHODS The effect of IL-1β on transendothelial electrical resistance, gene and protein expression of human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived brain-specific microvascular endothelial-like cells (iBMECs) was studied. Transport of IL-1β across the iBMEC layer was investigated and the effect of IL-1β treatment of astrocytes on their cytokine and chemokine secretome was evaluated with a cytokine membrane array. Using BBB-on-a-chip devices, transmigration of MDA-MB-231 cells and their brain-seeking variant (231BR) across the iBMECs was studied, and the effect of an IL-1β neutralizing antibody on TNBC cell transmigration was investigated. RESULTS We showed that IL-1β reduces BBB integrity and induces endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition in iBMECs. IL-1β crosses the iBMEC layer and induces secretion of multiple chemokines by astrocytes, which can enhance TNBC cell transmigration across the BBB. Transmigration assays in a BBB-on-a-chip device showed that 231BR cells have a higher rate of transmigration across the iBMECs compared to MDA-MB-231 cells, and IL-1β pretreatment of BBB-on-a-chip devices increases the number of transmigrated MDA-MB-231 cells. Finally, we demonstrated that neutralizing IL-1β reduces the rate of 231BR cell transmigration. CONCLUSION IL-1β plays a significant role in transmigration of brain-seeking TNBC cells across the BBB. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12195-021-00710-y.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedram Motallebnejad
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455 USA
| | - Vinayak V. Rajesh
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455 USA
| | - Samira M. Azarin
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455 USA
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29
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Liu B, Zhang X. Metabolic Reprogramming Underlying Brain Metastasis of Breast Cancer. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 8:791927. [PMID: 35071325 PMCID: PMC8766845 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.791927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of brain metastasis is a major cause of death in patients with breast cancer, characterized by rapid progression of the disease and poor prognosis, and lack of effective treatment has existed as an unresolved issue clinically. Extensive research has shown that a variety of metabolic changes associated with cellular metastasis exist in primary breast cancer or brain metastases, therefore to elucidate metabolic characteristics at each step of the metastasis cascade will provide important clues to the efficient treatment. In this review, we discuss the changes in metabolic patterns of breast cancer cells at every step of metastasis for exploring the potential therapeutic target based on metabolic reprogramming, and provide new insights on the design and development of drugs for breast cancer brain metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baoyi Liu
- Clinical Experimental Center, Jiangmen Key Laboratory of Clinical Biobanks and Translational Research, Jiangmen Central Hospital, Jiangmen, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Clinical Experimental Center, Jiangmen Key Laboratory of Clinical Biobanks and Translational Research, Jiangmen Central Hospital, Jiangmen, China.,Dongguan Key Laboratory of Medical Bioactive Molecular Developmental and Translational Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China.,Collaborative Innovation Center for Antitumor Active Substance Research and Development, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
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30
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Salkeni MA, Rizvi W, Hein K, Higa GM. Neu Perspectives, Therapies, and Challenges for Metastatic HER2-Positive Breast Cancer. BREAST CANCER-TARGETS AND THERAPY 2021; 13:539-557. [PMID: 34602823 PMCID: PMC8481821 DOI: 10.2147/bctt.s288344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Even though gene amplification or protein overexpression occurs in approximately one-fifth of all breast cancers, the discovery of HER2 has, nevertheless, had profound implications for the disease. Indeed, the characterization of the receptor resulted in a number of significant advances. Structurally, unique features provided avenues for the development of numerous compounds with target-specificity; molecularly, biological constructs revealed a highly complex, internal signal transduction pathway with regulatory effects on tumor proliferation, survival, and perhaps, even resistance; and clinically, disease outcomes manifested its predictive and prognostic value. Yet despite the receptor’s utility, the beneficial effects are diminished by tumor recurrence after neo- or adjuvant therapy as well as losses resulting from the inability to cure patients with metastatic disease. What these observations suggest is that while tumor response may be partially linked to uncoupling cell surface message reception and nuclear gene expression, as well as recruitment of the innate immune system, disease progression and/or resistance may involve a reprogrammable signaling mainframe that elicits alternative growth and survival signals. This review attempts to meld current perceptions related to HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer with particular attention to current biological insights and therapeutic challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamad Adham Salkeni
- Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Wajeeha Rizvi
- Department of Internal Medicine, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Kyaw Hein
- Department of Business, Lamar University, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Gerald M Higa
- Departments of Clinical Pharmacy and Medicine, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
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31
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Roesler R, Dini SA, Isolan GR. Neuroinflammation and immunoregulation in glioblastoma and brain metastases: Recent developments in imaging approaches. Clin Exp Immunol 2021; 206:314-324. [PMID: 34591980 DOI: 10.1111/cei.13668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain tumors and brain metastases induce changes in brain tissue remodeling that lead to immunosuppression and trigger an inflammatory response within the tumor microenvironment. These immune and inflammatory changes can influence invasion and metastasis. Other neuroinflammatory and necrotic lesions may occur in patients with brain cancer or brain metastases as sequelae from treatment with radiotherapy. Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive primary malignant brain cancer in adults. Imaging methods such as positron emission tomography (PET) and different magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques are highly valuable for the diagnosis and therapeutic evaluation of GBM and other malignant brain tumors. However, differentiating between tumor tissue and inflamed brain tissue with imaging protocols remains a challenge. Here, we review recent advances in imaging methods that have helped to improve the specificity of primary tumor diagnosis versus evaluation of inflamed and necrotic brain lesions. We also comment on advances in differentiating metastasis from neuroinflammation processes. Recent advances include the radiosynthesis of 18 F-FIMP, an L-type amino acid transporter 1 (LAT1)-specific PET probe that allows clearer differentiation between tumor tissue and inflammation compared to previous probes, and the combination of different advanced imaging protocols with the inclusion of radiomics and machine learning algorithms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Roesler
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute for Basic Health Sciences, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.,Cancer and Neurobiology Laboratory, Experimental Research Center, Clinical Hospital (CPE-HCPA), Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Simone Afonso Dini
- The Center for Advanced Neurology and Neurosurgery (CEANNE)-Brazil, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Gustavo R Isolan
- The Center for Advanced Neurology and Neurosurgery (CEANNE)-Brazil, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.,Mackenzie Evangelical University of Paraná (FEMPAR), Curitiba, PR, Brazil
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32
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Bryan S, Witzel I, Borgmann K, Oliveira-Ferrer L. Molecular Mechanisms Associated with Brain Metastases in HER2-Positive and Triple Negative Breast Cancers. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:4137. [PMID: 34439289 PMCID: PMC8392331 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13164137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is the most frequent cause of cancer-associated death for women worldwide, with deaths commonly resulting from metastatic spread to distant organs. Approximately 30% of metastatic BC patients develop brain metastases (BM), a currently incurable diagnosis. The influence of BC molecular subtype and gene expression on breast cancer brain metastasis (BCBM) development and patient prognosis is undeniable and is, therefore, an important focus point in the attempt to combat the disease. The HER2-positive and triple-negative molecular subtypes are associated with an increased risk of developing BCBM. Several genetic and molecular mechanisms linked to HER2-positive and triple-negative BC breast cancers appear to influence BCBM formation on several levels, including increased development of circulating tumor cells (CTCs), enhanced epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and migration of primary BC cells to the brain and/or through superior local invasiveness aided by cancer stem-like cells (CSCs). These specific BC characteristics, together with the ensuing developments at a clinical level, are presented in this review article, drawing a connection between research findings and related therapeutic strategies aimed at preventing BCBM formation and/or progression. Furthermore, we briefly address the critical limitations in our current understanding of this complex topic, highlighting potential focal points for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Bryan
- Department of Gynaecology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany; (S.B.); (I.W.)
| | - Isabell Witzel
- Department of Gynaecology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany; (S.B.); (I.W.)
| | - Kerstin Borgmann
- Center of Oncology, Laboratory of Radiobiology & Experimental Radiooncology, Department of Radiotherapy and Radiooncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251 Hamburg, Germany;
| | - Leticia Oliveira-Ferrer
- Department of Gynaecology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany; (S.B.); (I.W.)
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33
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Giridharan N, Glitza Oliva IC, O'Brien BJ, Parker Kerrigan BC, Heimberger AB, Ferguson SD. Targeting the Tumor Microenvironment in Brain Metastasis. Neurosurg Clin N Am 2021; 31:641-649. [PMID: 32921358 DOI: 10.1016/j.nec.2020.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Dynamic interplay between cancer cells and the surrounding microenvironment is a feature of the metastatic process. Successful metastatic brain colonization requires complex mechanisms that ultimately allow tumor cells to adapt to the unique microenvironment of the central nervous system, evade immune destruction, survive, and grow. Accumulating evidence suggests that components of the brain tumor microenvironment (TME) play a vital role in the metastatic cascade. In this review, the authors summarize the contribution of the TME to the development and progression of brain metastasis. They also highlight opportunities for TME-directed targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nisha Giridharan
- Department of Neurosurgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Unit 422, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Isabella C Glitza Oliva
- Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Unit 430, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Barbara J O'Brien
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Unit 431, Houston, TX 77030-4009, USA
| | - Brittany C Parker Kerrigan
- Department of Neurosurgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Unit 422, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Amy B Heimberger
- Department of Neurosurgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Unit 422, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Sherise D Ferguson
- Department of Neurosurgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Unit 422, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
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34
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Zhang L, Yao J, Wei Y, Zhou Z, Li P, Qu J, Badu-Nkansah A, Yuan X, Huang YW, Fukumura K, Mao X, Chang WC, Saunus J, Lakhani S, Huse JT, Hung MC, Yu D. Blocking immunosuppressive neutrophils deters pY696-EZH2-driven brain metastases. Sci Transl Med 2021; 12:12/545/eaaz5387. [PMID: 32461334 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.aaz5387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The functions of immune cells in brain metastases are unclear because the brain has traditionally been considered "immune privileged." However, we found that a subgroup of immunosuppressive neutrophils is recruited into the brain, enabling brain metastasis development. In brain metastatic cells, enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) is highly expressed and phosphorylated at tyrosine-696 (pY696)-EZH2 by nuclear-localized Src tyrosine kinase. Phosphorylation of EZH2 at Y696 changes its binding preference from histone H3 to RNA polymerase II, which consequently switches EZH2's function from a methyltransferase to a transcription factor that increases c-JUN expression. c-Jun up-regulates protumorigenic inflammatory cytokines, including granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF), which recruits Arg1+- and PD-L1+ immunosuppressive neutrophils into the brain to drive metastasis outgrowth. G-CSF-blocking antibodies or immune checkpoint blockade therapies combined with Src inhibitors impeded brain metastasis in multiple mouse models. These findings indicate that pY696-EZH2 can function as a methyltransferase-independent transcription factor to facilitate the brain infiltration of immunosuppressive neutrophils, which could be clinically targeted for brain metastasis treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Zhang
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA.,MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jun Yao
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Yongkun Wei
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Zhifen Zhou
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Ping Li
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jingkun Qu
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Akosua Badu-Nkansah
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Xiangliang Yuan
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Yu-Wen Huang
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA.,Center for Molecular Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
| | - Kazutaka Fukumura
- Department of Pathology and Translational Molecular Pathology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Xizeng Mao
- Department of Genomic Medicine, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Wei-Chao Chang
- Center for Molecular Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
| | - Jodi Saunus
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Sunil Lakhani
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia.,Pathology Queensland, The Royal Brisbane & Women's Hospital, Herston, QLD 4029, Australia
| | - Jason T Huse
- Department of Pathology and Translational Molecular Pathology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Mien-Chie Hung
- Center for Molecular Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
| | - Dihua Yu
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA. .,MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX 77030, USA.,Center for Molecular Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung 40402, Taiwan
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35
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Liu Z, Hu S, Yun Z, Hu W, Zhang S, Luo D. Using dynamic cell communication improves treatment strategies of breast cancer. Cancer Cell Int 2021; 21:275. [PMID: 34034721 PMCID: PMC8145794 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-021-01979-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Several insights from the clinical treatment of breast cancer patients have revealed that only a portion of patients achieve the expected curative effect after traditional targeted therapy, that surgical treatment may promote the development of cancer metastasis, and that the optimal combination of neoadjuvant chemotherapy and traditional treatment is not clear. Therefore, a more precise classification of breast cancer and selection of treatment methods should be undertaken to improve the efficacy of clinical treatment. In the clinical treatment of breast cancer, cell communication molecules are often selected as therapeutic targets. However, various cell communications are not static. Their dynamic changes are related to communicating cells, communicating molecules, and various intertwined internal and external environmental factors. Understanding the dynamic microenvironment can help us improve therapeutic efficacy and provide new ways to more accurately determine the cancer status. Therefore, this review describes multiple types of cellular communication in the breast cancer microenvironment and incorporates internal and external environmental factors as variable signaling factors in cell communication. Using dynamic and developmental concepts, we summarize the functional changes in signaling molecules and cells to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhibo Liu
- Second Clinic Medical College, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, 76 Linjiang Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, People's Republic of China
| | - Song Hu
- Thrombosis Center, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Fuwai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100037, China
| | - Zehui Yun
- Queen Mary School, School of Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang, People's Republic of China
| | - Wanshan Hu
- School of Medicine, Forth Clinic Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuhua Zhang
- Jiangxi Cardiovascular Research Institute, Jiangxi Provincial People's Hospital Affiliated to Nanchang University, Aiguo Road, No. 152, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China.
| | - Daya Luo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanchang University, Bayi Road, No. 461, Nanchang, 330006, People's Republic of China.
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36
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Oliveira-Barros EGD, Branco LC, Da Costa NM, Nicolau-Neto P, Palmero C, Pontes B, Ferreira do Amaral R, Alves-Leon SV, Marcondes de Souza J, Romão L, Fernandes PV, Martins I, Takiya CM, Ribeiro Pinto LF, Palumbo A, Nasciutti LE. GLIPR1 and SPARC expression profile reveals a signature associated with prostate Cancer Brain metastasis. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 528:111230. [PMID: 33675864 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2020] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Despite advances in treatment of lethal prostate cancer, the incidence of prostate cancer brain metastases is increasing. In this sense, we analyzed the molecular profile, as well as the functional consequences involved in the reciprocal interactions between prostate tumor cells and human astrocytes. We observed that the DU145 cells, but not the LNCaP cells or the RWPE-1 cells, exhibited more pronounced, malignant and invasive phenotypes along their interactions with astrocytes. Moreover, global gene expression analysis revealed several genes that were differently expressed in our co-culture models with the overexpression of GLIPR1 and SPARC potentially representing a molecular signature associated with the invasion of central nervous system by prostate malignant cells. Further, these results were corroborated by immunohistochemistry and in silico analysis. Thus, we conjecture that the data here presented may increase the knowledge about the molecular mechanisms associated with the invasion of CNS by prostate malignant cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eliane Gouvêa de Oliveira-Barros
- Programa de Pesquisa Em Biologia Celular e do Desenvolvimento, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Cidade Universitária-Ilha do Fundão, Rio de Janeiro, CEP 21941-902, Brazil; Laboratório de Biologia Celular, Departamento de Biologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora (UFJF), Rua José Lourenço Kelmer-Campus, São Pedro, Juiz de Fora, CEP: 36036-900, Brazil.
| | - Luíza Castello Branco
- Programa de Pesquisa Em Biologia Celular e do Desenvolvimento, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Cidade Universitária-Ilha do Fundão, Rio de Janeiro, CEP 21941-902, Brazil.
| | - Nathalia Meireles Da Costa
- Programa de Carcinogênese Molecular, Centro de Pesquisas, Instituto Nacional de Câncer (INCA), Rua André Cavalcanti, 37-Centro, Rio de Janeiro, CEP 20231-050, Brazil.
| | - Pedro Nicolau-Neto
- Programa de Carcinogênese Molecular, Centro de Pesquisas, Instituto Nacional de Câncer (INCA), Rua André Cavalcanti, 37-Centro, Rio de Janeiro, CEP 20231-050, Brazil.
| | - Celia Palmero
- Programa de Pesquisa Em Biologia Celular e do Desenvolvimento, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Cidade Universitária-Ilha do Fundão, Rio de Janeiro, CEP 21941-902, Brazil; UFRJ/Polo Macaé, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
| | - Bruno Pontes
- Programa de Pesquisa Em Biologia Celular e do Desenvolvimento, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Cidade Universitária-Ilha do Fundão, Rio de Janeiro, CEP 21941-902, Brazil; Centro Nacional de Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem (CENABIO), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Cidade Universitária-Ilha do Fundão, Rio de Janeiro, CEP 21941-902, Brazil.
| | - Rackele Ferreira do Amaral
- Programa de Pesquisa Em Biologia Celular e do Desenvolvimento, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Cidade Universitária-Ilha do Fundão, Rio de Janeiro, CEP 21941-902, Brazil.
| | - Soniza Vieira Alves-Leon
- Hospital Universitário Clementino Fraga Filho (HUCFF), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Cidade Universitária-Ilha do Fundão, Rio de Janeiro, CEP 21941-902, Brazil.
| | - Jorge Marcondes de Souza
- Hospital Universitário Clementino Fraga Filho (HUCFF), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Cidade Universitária-Ilha do Fundão, Rio de Janeiro, CEP 21941-902, Brazil.
| | - Luciana Romão
- Programa de Pesquisa Em Biologia Celular e do Desenvolvimento, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Cidade Universitária-Ilha do Fundão, Rio de Janeiro, CEP 21941-902, Brazil.
| | - Priscila Valverde Fernandes
- Divisão de Patologia, Instituto Nacional de Câncer (INCA), Rua Cordeiro da Graça, 156 - Santo Cristo, Rio de Janeiro, CEP: 20220 -040, Brazil.
| | - Ivanir Martins
- Divisão de Patologia, Instituto Nacional de Câncer (INCA), Rua Cordeiro da Graça, 156 - Santo Cristo, Rio de Janeiro, CEP: 20220 -040, Brazil.
| | - Christina Maeda Takiya
- Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Cidade Universitária-Ilha do Fundão, Rio de Janeiro, CEP 21941-902, Brazil.
| | - Luis Felipe Ribeiro Pinto
- Programa de Carcinogênese Molecular, Centro de Pesquisas, Instituto Nacional de Câncer (INCA), Rua André Cavalcanti, 37-Centro, Rio de Janeiro, CEP 20231-050, Brazil.
| | - Antonio Palumbo
- Programa de Pesquisa Em Biologia Celular e do Desenvolvimento, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Cidade Universitária-Ilha do Fundão, Rio de Janeiro, CEP 21941-902, Brazil.
| | - Luiz Eurico Nasciutti
- Programa de Pesquisa Em Biologia Celular e do Desenvolvimento, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Cidade Universitária-Ilha do Fundão, Rio de Janeiro, CEP 21941-902, Brazil.
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37
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Fares J, Ulasov I, Timashev P, Lesniak MS. Emerging principles of brain immunology and immune checkpoint blockade in brain metastases. Brain 2021; 144:1046-1066. [PMID: 33893488 PMCID: PMC8105040 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awab012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Revised: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain metastases are the most common type of brain tumours, harbouring an immune microenvironment that can in principle be targeted via immunotherapy. Elucidating some of the immunological intricacies of brain metastases has opened a therapeutic window to explore the potential of immune checkpoint inhibitors in this globally lethal disease. Multiple lines of evidence suggest that tumour cells hijack the immune regulatory mechanisms in the brain for the benefit of their own survival and progression. Nonetheless, the role of the immune checkpoint in the complex interplays between cancers cells and T cells and in conferring resistance to therapy remains under investigation. Meanwhile, early phase trials with immune checkpoint inhibitors have reported clinical benefit in patients with brain metastases from melanoma and non-small cell lung cancer. In this review, we explore the workings of the immune system in the brain, the immunology of brain metastases, and the current status of immune checkpoint inhibitors in the treatment of brain metastases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jawad Fares
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Ilya Ulasov
- Group of Experimental Biotherapy and Diagnostics, Institute for Regenerative Medicine, World-Class Research Center “Digital Biodesign and Personalized Healthcare”, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow 119991, Russia
| | - Peter Timashev
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow 119991, Russia
| | - Maciej S Lesniak
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
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38
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López Vázquez M, Du W, Kanaya N, Kitamura Y, Shah K. Next-generation immunotherapies for brain metastatic cancers. Trends Cancer 2021; 7:809-822. [PMID: 33722479 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2021.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Revised: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Patients with extracranial tumors, like lung, breast, and skin cancers, often develop brain metastases (BM) during the course of their diseases and BM commonly represent the terminal stage of cancer progression. Recent insights in the immune biology of BM and the increasing focus of immunotherapy as a therapeutic option for cancer has prompted testing of promising biological immunotherapies, including immune cell-targeting, virotherapy, vaccines, and different cell-based therapies. Here, we review the pathobiology of BM progression and evaluate the potential of next-generation immunotherapies for BM tumors. We also provide future perspectives on the development and implementation of such therapies for brain metastatic cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- María López Vázquez
- Center for Stem Cell Therapeutics and Imaging (CSTI), Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Wanlu Du
- Center for Stem Cell Therapeutics and Imaging (CSTI), Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1085, USA
| | - Nobuhiko Kanaya
- Center for Stem Cell Therapeutics and Imaging (CSTI), Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Yohei Kitamura
- Center for Stem Cell Therapeutics and Imaging (CSTI), Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Khalid Shah
- Center for Stem Cell Therapeutics and Imaging (CSTI), Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Neurosurgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA.
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39
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Sigdel I, Gupta N, Faizee F, Khare VM, Tiwari AK, Tang Y. Biomimetic Microfluidic Platforms for the Assessment of Breast Cancer Metastasis. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2021; 9:633671. [PMID: 33777909 PMCID: PMC7992012 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2021.633671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Of around half a million women dying of breast cancer each year, more than 90% die due to metastasis. Models necessary to understand the metastatic process, particularly breast cancer cell extravasation and colonization, are currently limited and urgently needed to develop therapeutic interventions necessary to prevent breast cancer metastasis. Microfluidic approaches aim to reconstitute functional units of organs that cannot be modeled easily in traditional cell culture or animal studies by reproducing vascular networks and parenchyma on a chip in a three-dimensional, physiologically relevant in vitro system. In recent years, microfluidics models utilizing innovative biomaterials and micro-engineering technologies have shown great potential in our effort of mechanistic understanding of the breast cancer metastasis cascade by providing 3D constructs that can mimic in vivo cellular microenvironment and the ability to visualize and monitor cellular interactions in real-time. In this review, we will provide readers with a detailed discussion on the application of the most up-to-date, state-of-the-art microfluidics-based breast cancer models, with a special focus on their application in the engineering approaches to recapitulate the metastasis process, including invasion, intravasation, extravasation, breast cancer metastasis organotropism, and metastasis niche formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Indira Sigdel
- Biofluidics Laboratory, Department of Bioengineering, College of Engineering, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH, United States
| | - Niraj Gupta
- Biofluidics Laboratory, Department of Bioengineering, College of Engineering, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH, United States
| | - Fairuz Faizee
- Biofluidics Laboratory, Department of Bioengineering, College of Engineering, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH, United States
| | - Vishwa M Khare
- Eurofins Lancaster Laboratories, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Amit K Tiwari
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH, United States
| | - Yuan Tang
- Biofluidics Laboratory, Department of Bioengineering, College of Engineering, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH, United States
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40
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Srinivasan ES, Tan AC, Anders CK, Pendergast AM, Sipkins DA, Ashley DM, Fecci PE, Khasraw M. Salting the Soil: Targeting the Microenvironment of Brain Metastases. Mol Cancer Ther 2021; 20:455-466. [PMID: 33402399 PMCID: PMC8041238 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-20-0579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Revised: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 12/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Paget's "seed and soil" hypothesis of metastatic spread has acted as a foundation of the field for over a century, with continued evolution as mechanisms of the process have been elucidated. The central nervous system (CNS) presents a unique soil through this lens, relatively isolated from peripheral circulation and immune surveillance with distinct cellular and structural composition. Research in primary and metastatic brain tumors has demonstrated that this tumor microenvironment (TME) plays an essential role in the growth of CNS tumors. In each case, the cancerous cells develop complex and bidirectional relationships that reorganize the local TME and reprogram the CNS cells, including endothelial cells, pericytes, astrocytes, microglia, infiltrating monocytes, and lymphocytes. These interactions create a structurally and immunologically permissive TME with malignant processes promoting positive feedback loops and systemic consequences. Strategies to interrupt interactions with the native CNS components, on "salting the soil," to create an inhospitable environment are promising in the preclinical setting. This review aims to examine the general and specific pathways thus far investigated in brain metastases and related work in glioma to identify targetable mechanisms that may have general application across the spectrum of intracranial tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ethan S Srinivasan
- Duke Brain and Spine Metastases Center, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Aaron C Tan
- Division of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore
| | - Carey K Anders
- Duke Brain and Spine Metastases Center, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | | | - Dorothy A Sipkins
- Duke Brain and Spine Metastases Center, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - David M Ashley
- Duke Brain and Spine Metastases Center, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Peter E Fecci
- Duke Brain and Spine Metastases Center, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Mustafa Khasraw
- Duke Brain and Spine Metastases Center, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina.
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41
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Esposito M, Ganesan S, Kang Y. Emerging strategies for treating metastasis. NATURE CANCER 2021; 2:258-270. [PMID: 33899000 PMCID: PMC8064405 DOI: 10.1038/s43018-021-00181-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The systemic spread of tumor cells is the ultimate cause of the majority of deaths from cancer, yet few successful therapeutic strategies have emerged to specifically target metastasis. Here we discuss recent advances in our understanding of tumor-intrinsic pathways driving metastatic colonization and therapeutic resistance, as well as immune activating strategies to target metastatic disease. We focus on therapeutically exploitable mechanisms, promising strategies in preclinical and clinical development, and emerging areas with potential to become innovative treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Esposito
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | - Shridar Ganesan
- Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
- Center for Systems and Computational Biology, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Yibin Kang
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA.
- Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ, USA.
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA.
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Unlocking the Secrets of Cancer Stem Cells with γ-Secretase Inhibitors: A Novel Anticancer Strategy. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26040972. [PMID: 33673088 PMCID: PMC7917912 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26040972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The dysregulation of Notch signaling is associated with a wide variety of different human cancers. Notch signaling activation mostly relies on the activity of the γ-secretase enzyme that cleaves the Notch receptors and releases the active intracellular domain. It is well-documented that γ-secretase inhibitors (GSIs) block the Notch activity, mainly by inhibiting the oncogenic activity of this pathway. To date, several GSIs have been introduced clinically for the treatment of various diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease and various cancers, and their impacts on Notch inhibition have been found to be promising. Therefore, GSIs are of great interest for cancer therapy. The objective of this review is to provide a systematic review of in vitro and in vivo studies for investigating the effect of GSIs on various cancer stem cells (CSCs), mainly by modulation of the Notch signaling pathway. Various scholarly electronic databases were searched and relevant studies published in the English language were collected up to February 2020. Herein, we conclude that GSIs can be potential candidates for CSC-targeting therapy. The outcome of our study also indicates that GSIs in combination with anticancer drugs have a greater inhibitory effect on CSCs.
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43
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Wang L, Zhang S, Wang X. The Metabolic Mechanisms of Breast Cancer Metastasis. Front Oncol 2021; 10:602416. [PMID: 33489906 PMCID: PMC7817624 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.602416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is one of the most common malignancy among women worldwide. Metastasis is mainly responsible for treatment failure and is the cause of most breast cancer deaths. The role of metabolism in the progression and metastasis of breast cancer is gradually being emphasized. However, the regulatory mechanisms that conduce to cancer metastasis by metabolic reprogramming in breast cancer have not been expounded. Breast cancer cells exhibit different metabolic phenotypes depending on their molecular subtypes and metastatic sites. Both intrinsic factors, such as MYC amplification, PIK3CA, and TP53 mutations, and extrinsic factors, such as hypoxia, oxidative stress, and acidosis, contribute to different metabolic reprogramming phenotypes in metastatic breast cancers. Understanding the metabolic mechanisms underlying breast cancer metastasis will provide important clues to develop novel therapeutic approaches for treatment of metastatic breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingling Wang
- Department of Breast Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Surgical Oncology and Cancer Institute, Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shizhen Zhang
- Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaochen Wang
- Department of Breast Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Hangzhou, China
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44
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Maiti A, Hait NC. Autophagy-mediated tumor cell survival and progression of breast cancer metastasis to the brain. J Cancer 2021; 12:954-964. [PMID: 33442395 PMCID: PMC7797661 DOI: 10.7150/jca.50137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain metastases represent a substantial amount of morbidity and mortality in breast cancer (BC). Metastatic breast tumor cells committed to brain metastases are unique because they escape immune surveillance, can penetrate the blood-brain barrier, and also adapt to the brain tissue microenvironment (TME) for colonization and outgrowth. In addition, dynamic intracellular interactions between metastatic cancer cells and neighboring astrocytes in the brain are thought to play essential roles in brain tumor progression. A better understanding of the above mechanisms will lead to developing more effective therapies for brain metastases. Growing literature suggests autophagy, a conserved lysosomal degradation pathway involved in cellular homeostasis under stressful conditions, plays essential roles in breast tumor metastatic transformation and brain metastases. Cancer cells must adapt under various microenvironmental stresses, such as hypoxia, and nutrient (glucose) deprivation, in order to survive and progress. Clinical studies reveal that tumoral expression of autophagy-related proteins is higher in brain metastasis compared to primary breast tumors. In this review, we outline the molecular mechanisms underlying autophagy-mediated BC cell survival and metastasis to the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aparna Maiti
- Division of Breast Surgery and Department of Surgical Oncology, Department of Molecular & Cellular Biology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, 14263, USA
| | - Nitai C. Hait
- Division of Breast Surgery and Department of Surgical Oncology, Department of Molecular & Cellular Biology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, New York, 14263, USA
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45
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Abstract
Owing to increased awareness of the importance of mammogram and advances in surgical technology, survival rate of patients with primary breast cancer has dramatically increased. Despite all these advances in breast cancer treatment, there are no currently available treatments for this disease once it metastasizes to distant organs including bones, lungs, brain, and liver. This is mainly attributed to the complexity of metastatic process. Recent advances in technology enabled cancer biologists to dissect each step of the metastatic process, and this led to discovery of major players and molecules in this process. In this section, we will discuss recent discovery and advances in the field of breast cancer metastasis research.
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Xu Y, Zhu Y, Yue Y, Pu S, Wu J, Lv Y, Du D. Tamoxifen attenuates reactive astrocyte-induced brain metastasis and drug resistance through the IL-6/STAT3 signaling pathway. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2020; 52:1299-1305. [PMID: 33355355 DOI: 10.1093/abbs/gmaa127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain metastasis affects approximately 20%-30% of patients with triple-negative breast cancers (TNBCs). Even small metastatic lesions in the brain can trigger severe neurological impairments and result in extremely short survival time. Recently, active astrocytes were reported to be associated with brain metastases. However, how activated astrocytes regulate the behaviors of disseminated breast cancer cells in the brain remains unknown. In this study, human primary astrocytes were stimulated with IL-1β to form active astrocytes to study the cross-talk between stromal cells (astrocytes) and TNBC cells in brain metastases. Our results showed that active astrocytes significantly increase the malignancy of TNBC cells and prevent them from undergoing apoptosis caused by doxorubicin. We also found that the high level of IL-6 secreted by activated astrocytes was responsible for the drug resistance of breast cancer, which could be abolished by treatment of astrocytes with tamoxifen (TAM). The blockage of active astrocyte-derived IL-6 by a neutralizing antibody resulted in the attenuation of drug resistance, consequently enhancing the sensitivity of breast cancer cells to doxorubicin. Furthermore, the possible involved TAM-modulated drug resistance mechanism may be associated with a decrease in IL-6 expression in astrocytes and the downregulation of MAPK and JAK2/STAT3 signaling in cancer cells. Our data suggested that TAMs might reduce drug resistance through the IL-6/JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway, providing a possible therapy to treat brain metastasis in TNBCs, as estrogen receptor inhibitors (TAMs, etc.) can cross the blood-brain barrier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongming Xu
- Department of Pain Management, Shanghai Sixth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200233, China
| | - Yanrong Zhu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Liaocheng People’s Hospital, Liaocheng 252000, China
| | - Yong Yue
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zhejiang Putuo Hospital, Zhoushan 316100, China
| | - Shaofeng Pu
- Department of Pain Management, Shanghai Sixth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200233, China
| | - Junzhen Wu
- Department of Pain Management, Shanghai Sixth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200233, China
| | - Yingying Lv
- Department of Pain Management, Shanghai Sixth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200233, China
| | - Dongping Du
- Department of Pain Management, Shanghai Sixth People’s Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200233, China
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Notch Signaling Function in the Angiocrine Regulation of Tumor Development. Cells 2020; 9:cells9112467. [PMID: 33198378 PMCID: PMC7697556 DOI: 10.3390/cells9112467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Revised: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The concept of tumor growth being angiogenesis dependent had its origin in the observations of Judah Folkman in 1969 of a retinoblastoma in a child. Tumor angiogenesis is initiated when endothelial cells (ECs) respond to local stimuli and migrate towards the growing mass, which results in the formation of tubular structures surrounded by perivascular support cells that transport blood to the inner tumor. In turn, the neo-vasculature supports tumor development and eventual metastasis. This process is highly regulated by several signaling pathways. Central to this process is the Notch signaling pathway. Beyond the role of Notch signaling in tumor angiogenesis, a major hallmark of cancer development, it has also been implicated in the regulation of tumor cell proliferation and survival, in epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, invasion and metastasis and in the regulation of cancer stem cells, in a variety of hematologic and solid malignancies. There is increasing evidence for the tumor vasculature being important in roles other than those linked to blood perfusion. Namely, endothelial cells act on and influence neighboring tumor cells by use of angiocrine factors to generate a unique cellular microenvironment, thereby regulating tumor stem-like cells’ homeostasis, modulating tumor progression, invasiveness, trafficking and metastasis. This review will focus on Notch signaling components that play a part in angiocrine signaling in a tumor setting.
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Pellerino A, Internò V, Mo F, Franchino F, Soffietti R, Rudà R. Management of Brain and Leptomeningeal Metastases from Breast Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E8534. [PMID: 33198331 PMCID: PMC7698162 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21228534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Revised: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The management of breast cancer (BC) has rapidly evolved in the last 20 years. The improvement of systemic therapy allows a remarkable control of extracranial disease. However, brain (BM) and leptomeningeal metastases (LM) are frequent complications of advanced BC and represent a challenging issue for clinicians. Some prognostic scales designed for metastatic BC have been employed to select fit patients for adequate therapy and enrollment in clinical trials. Different systemic drugs, such as targeted therapies with either monoclonal antibodies or small tyrosine kinase molecules, or modified chemotherapeutic agents are under investigation. Major aims are to improve the penetration of active drugs through the blood-brain barrier (BBB) or brain-tumor barrier (BTB), and establish the best sequence and timing of radiotherapy and systemic therapy to avoid neurocognitive impairment. Moreover, pharmacologic prevention is a new concept driven by the efficacy of targeted agents on macrometastases from specific molecular subgroups. This review aims to provide an overview of the clinical and molecular factors involved in the selection of patients for local and/or systemic therapy, as well as the results of clinical trials on advanced BC. Moreover, insight on promising therapeutic options and potential directions of future therapeutic targets against BBB and microenvironment are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Pellerino
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, University and City of Health and Science Hospital, 10126 Turin, Italy; (F.M.); (F.F.); (R.S.); (R.R.)
| | - Valeria Internò
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70121 Bari, Italy;
| | - Francesca Mo
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, University and City of Health and Science Hospital, 10126 Turin, Italy; (F.M.); (F.F.); (R.S.); (R.R.)
| | - Federica Franchino
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, University and City of Health and Science Hospital, 10126 Turin, Italy; (F.M.); (F.F.); (R.S.); (R.R.)
| | - Riccardo Soffietti
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, University and City of Health and Science Hospital, 10126 Turin, Italy; (F.M.); (F.F.); (R.S.); (R.R.)
| | - Roberta Rudà
- Department of Neuro-Oncology, University and City of Health and Science Hospital, 10126 Turin, Italy; (F.M.); (F.F.); (R.S.); (R.R.)
- Department of Neurology, Castelfranco Veneto and Treviso Hospital, 31100 Treviso, Italy
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McAvoy MB, Choi BD, Jones PS. Immune Therapy for Central Nervous System Metastasis. Neurosurg Clin N Am 2020; 31:627-639. [PMID: 32921357 DOI: 10.1016/j.nec.2020.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Brain metastases lead to substantial morbidity and mortality among patients with advanced malignancies. Although treatment options have traditionally included largely palliative measures, studies of brain metastasis response to immunotherapy are promising. Immune checkpoint inhibitors have shown efficacy in studies of patients with melanoma, renal cell carcinoma, and lung cancer brain metastases. Patients with brain metastases are more frequently included in clinical trials, ushering in a new era in immunotherapy and management for patients with brain metastases. Gaining an understanding of the molecular determination for response to immunotherapies remains a major challenge and is an active area of future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malia B McAvoy
- University of Washington Medical Center, Department of Neurological Surgery, Box 356470, 1959 NE Pacific Street, Seattle, WA 98195-6470, USA
| | - Bryan D Choi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 15 Parkman Street, WAC 3, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Pamela S Jones
- Department of Neurosurgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 15 Parkman Street, WAC 745, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
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50
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Oliver CR, Westerhof TM, Castro MG, Merajver SD. Quantifying the Brain Metastatic Tumor Micro-Environment using an Organ-On-A Chip 3D Model, Machine Learning, and Confocal Tomography. J Vis Exp 2020. [PMID: 32865534 DOI: 10.3791/61654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain metastases are the most lethal cancer lesions; 10-30% of all cancers metastasize to the brain, with a median survival of only ~5-20 months, depending on the cancer type. To reduce the brain metastatic tumor burden, gaps in basic and translational knowledge need to be addressed. Major challenges include a paucity of reproducible preclinical models and associated tools. Three-dimensional models of brain metastasis can yield the relevant molecular and phenotypic data used to address these needs when combined with dedicated analysis tools. Moreover, compared to murine models, organ-on-a-chip models of patient tumor cells traversing the blood brain barrier into the brain microenvironment generate results rapidly and are more interpretable with quantitative methods, thus amenable to high throughput testing. Here we describe and demonstrate the use of a novel 3D microfluidic blood brain niche (µmBBN) platform where multiple elements of the niche can be cultured for an extended period (several days), fluorescently imaged by confocal microscopy, and the images reconstructed using an innovative confocal tomography technique; all aimed to understand the development of micro-metastasis and changes to the tumor micro-environment (TME) in a repeatable and quantitative manner. We demonstrate how to fabricate, seed, image, and analyze the cancer cells and TME cellular and humoral components, using this platform. Moreover, we show how artificial intelligence (AI) is used to identify the intrinsic phenotypic differences of cancer cells that are capable of transit through a model µmBBN and to assign them an objective index of brain metastatic potential. The data sets generated by this method can be used to answer basic and translational questions about metastasis, the efficacy of therapeutic strategies, and the role of the TME in both.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Ryan Oliver
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Ann Arbor; Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan Ann Arbor
| | - Trisha M Westerhof
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Ann Arbor; Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan Ann Arbor
| | - Maria G Castro
- Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan Ann Arbor; Department of Neurosurgery, University of Michigan Ann Arbor; Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Ann Arbor
| | - Sofia D Merajver
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan Ann Arbor; Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan Ann Arbor;
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