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Galasso L, Cerrito L, Maccauro V, Termite F, Ainora ME, Gasbarrini A, Zocco MA. Hepatocellular Carcinoma and the Multifaceted Relationship with Its Microenvironment: Attacking the Hepatocellular Carcinoma Defensive Fortress. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1837. [PMID: 38791916 PMCID: PMC11119751 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16101837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma is a malignant tumor that originates from hepatocytes in an inflammatory substrate due to different degrees of liver fibrosis up to cirrhosis. In recent years, there has been growing interest in the role played by the complex interrelationship between hepatocellular carcinoma and its microenvironment, capable of influencing tumourigenesis, neoplastic growth, and its progression or even inhibition. The microenvironment is made up of an intricate network of mesenchymal cells, immune system cells, extracellular matrix, and growth factors, as well as proinflammatory cytokines and translocated bacterial products coming from the intestinal microenvironment via the enterohepatic circulation. The aim of this paper is to review the role of the HCC microenvironment and describe the possible implications in the choice of the most appropriate therapeutic scheme in the prediction of tumor response or resistance to currently applied treatments and in the possible development of future therapeutic perspectives, in order to circumvent resistance and break down the tumor's defensive fort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Galasso
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy (L.C.); (V.M.); (A.G.)
| | - Lucia Cerrito
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy (L.C.); (V.M.); (A.G.)
- CEMAD Digestive Disease Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Valeria Maccauro
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy (L.C.); (V.M.); (A.G.)
| | - Fabrizio Termite
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy (L.C.); (V.M.); (A.G.)
| | - Maria Elena Ainora
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy (L.C.); (V.M.); (A.G.)
- CEMAD Digestive Disease Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Gasbarrini
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy (L.C.); (V.M.); (A.G.)
- CEMAD Digestive Disease Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Assunta Zocco
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy (L.C.); (V.M.); (A.G.)
- CEMAD Digestive Disease Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy
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Hsu CY, Mustafa MA, Kumar A, Pramanik A, Sharma R, Mohammed F, Jawad IA, Mohammed IJ, Alshahrani MY, Ali Khalil NAM, Shnishil AT, Abosaoda MK. Exploiting the immune system in hepatic tumor targeting: Unleashing the potential of drugs, natural products, and nanoparticles. Pathol Res Pract 2024; 256:155266. [PMID: 38554489 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2024.155266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024]
Abstract
Hepatic tumors present a formidable challenge in cancer therapeutics, necessitating the exploration of novel treatment strategies. In recent years, targeting the immune system has attracted interest to augment existing therapeutic efficacy. The immune system in hepatic tumors includes numerous cells with diverse actions. CD8+ T lymphocytes, T helper 1 (Th1) CD4+ T lymphocytes, alternative M1 macrophages, and natural killer (NK) cells provide the antitumor immunity. However, Foxp3+ regulatory CD4+ T cells (Tregs), M2-like tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are the key immune inhibitor cells. Tumor stroma can also affect these interactions. Targeting these cells and their secreted molecules is intriguing for eliminating malignant cells. The current review provides a synopsis of the immune system components involved in hepatic tumor expansion and highlights the molecular and cellular pathways that can be targeted for therapeutic intervention. It also overviews the diverse range of drugs, natural products, immunotherapy drugs, and nanoparticles that have been investigated to manipulate immune responses and bolster antitumor immunity. The review also addresses the potential advantages and challenges associated with these approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chou-Yi Hsu
- Department of Pharmacy, Chia Nan University of Pharmacy and Science, Tainan City 71710, Taiwan
| | | | - Ashwani Kumar
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Sciences, Jain (Deemed-to-be) University, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560069, India; Department of Pharmacy, Vivekananda Global University, Jaipur, Rajasthan 303012, India
| | - Atreyi Pramanik
- Institute of Pharma Sciences and Research, Chandigarh University, Mohali, India
| | - Rajiv Sharma
- Institute of Pharma Sciences and Research, Chandigarh University, Mohali, India
| | - Faraj Mohammed
- Department of Pharmacy, Al-Manara College for Medical Sciences, Maysan, Iraq
| | | | - Imad Jasim Mohammed
- College of Pharmacy, National University of Science and Technology, Dhi Qar, Iraq
| | - Mohammad Y Alshahrani
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Science, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia.
| | | | | | - Munther Kadhim Abosaoda
- College of technical engineering, the Islamic University, Najaf, Iraq; College of technical engineering, the Islamic University of Al Diwaniyah, Iraq; College of technical engineering, the Islamic University of Babylon, Iraq
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Zhang C, Wei W, Tu S, Liang B, Li C, Li Y, Luo W, Wu Y, Dai X, Wang Y, Zheng L, Hao L, Zhang C, Luo Z, Chen YG, Yan X. Upregulation of CYR61 by TGF-β and YAP signaling exerts a counter-suppression of hepatocellular carcinoma. J Biol Chem 2024; 300:107208. [PMID: 38521502 PMCID: PMC11021963 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2024.107208] [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: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 03/10/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) and Hippo signaling are two critical pathways engaged in cancer progression by regulating both oncogenes and tumor suppressors, yet how the two pathways coordinately exert their functions in the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains elusive. In this study, we firstly conducted an integrated analysis of public liver cancer databases and our experimental TGF-β target genes, identifying CYR61 as a pivotal candidate gene relating to HCC development. The expression of CYR61 is downregulated in clinical HCC tissues and cell lines than that in the normal counterparts. Evidence revealed that CYR61 is a direct target gene of TGF-β in liver cancer cells. In addition, TGF-β-stimulated Smad2/3 and the Hippo pathway downstream effectors YAP and TEAD4 can form a protein complex on the promoter of CYR61, thereby activating the promoter activity and stimulating CYR61 gene transcription in a collaborative manner. Functionally, depletion of CYR61 enhanced TGF-β- or YAP-mediated growth and migration of liver cancer cells. Consistently, ectopic expression of CYR61 was capable of impeding TGF-β- or YAP-induced malignant transformation of HCC cells in vitro and attenuating HCC xenograft growth in nude mice. Finally, transcriptomic analysis indicates that CYR61 can elicit an antitumor program in liver cancer cells. Together, these results add new evidence for the crosstalk between TGF-β and Hippo signaling and unveil an important tumor suppressor function of CYR61 in liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Zhang
- The MOE Basic Research and Innovation Center for the Targeted Therapeutics of Solid Tumors, School of Basic Medicine, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China; The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Wenjing Wei
- The MOE Basic Research and Innovation Center for the Targeted Therapeutics of Solid Tumors, School of Basic Medicine, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Shuo Tu
- The MOE Basic Research and Innovation Center for the Targeted Therapeutics of Solid Tumors, School of Basic Medicine, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Bo Liang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Chun Li
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Yining Li
- The MOE Basic Research and Innovation Center for the Targeted Therapeutics of Solid Tumors, School of Basic Medicine, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Weicheng Luo
- The MOE Basic Research and Innovation Center for the Targeted Therapeutics of Solid Tumors, School of Basic Medicine, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Yiqing Wu
- The MOE Basic Research and Innovation Center for the Targeted Therapeutics of Solid Tumors, School of Basic Medicine, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Xiaohui Dai
- The MOE Basic Research and Innovation Center for the Targeted Therapeutics of Solid Tumors, School of Basic Medicine, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Yi Wang
- The MOE Basic Research and Innovation Center for the Targeted Therapeutics of Solid Tumors, School of Basic Medicine, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Lijuan Zheng
- The MOE Basic Research and Innovation Center for the Targeted Therapeutics of Solid Tumors, School of Basic Medicine, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Liang Hao
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Chunbo Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Zhijun Luo
- Queen Mary School, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Ye-Guang Chen
- The MOE Basic Research and Innovation Center for the Targeted Therapeutics of Solid Tumors, School of Basic Medicine, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China; School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaohua Yan
- The MOE Basic Research and Innovation Center for the Targeted Therapeutics of Solid Tumors, School of Basic Medicine, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China; The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, China.
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Gao Y, Gong Y, Lu J, Hao H, Shi X. Targeting YAP1 to improve the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors in liver cancer: mechanism and strategy. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1377722. [PMID: 38550587 PMCID: PMC10972981 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1377722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer is the third leading of tumor death, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC). Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are yielding much for sufferers to hope for patients, but only some patients with advanced liver tumor respond. Recent research showed that tumor microenvironment (TME) is critical for the effectiveness of ICIs in advanced liver tumor. Meanwhile, metabolic reprogramming of liver tumor leads to immunosuppression in TME. These suggest that regulating the abnormal metabolism of liver tumor cells and firing up TME to turn "cold tumor" into "hot tumor" are potential strategies to improve the therapeutic effect of ICIs in liver tumor. Previous studies have found that YAP1 is a potential target to improve the efficacy of anti-PD-1 in HCC. Here, we review that YAP1 promotes immunosuppression of TME, mainly due to the overstimulation of cytokines in TME by YAP1. Subsequently, we studied the effects of YAP1 on metabolic reprogramming in liver tumor cells, including glycolysis, gluconeogenesis, lipid metabolism, arachidonic acid metabolism, and amino acid metabolism. Lastly, we summarized the existing drugs targeting YAP1 in the treatment of liver tumor, including some medicines from natural sources, which have the potential to improve the efficacy of ICIs in the treatment of liver tumor. This review contributed to the application of targeted YAP1 for combined therapy with ICIs in liver tumor patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuting Gao
- Laboratory of Integrated Medicine Tumor Immunology, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Taiyuan, China
| | - Yi Gong
- Laboratory of Integrated Medicine Tumor Immunology, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Taiyuan, China
| | - Junlan Lu
- Laboratory of Integrated Medicine Tumor Immunology, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Taiyuan, China
| | - Huiqin Hao
- Chinese Medicine Gene Expression Regulation Laboratory, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Taiyuan, China
- Basic Laboratory of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Taiyuan, China
| | - Xinli Shi
- Laboratory of Integrated Medicine Tumor Immunology, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Taiyuan, China
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Floreani A, Gabbia D, De Martin S. Current Perspectives on the Molecular and Clinical Relationships between Primary Biliary Cholangitis and Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2194. [PMID: 38396870 PMCID: PMC10888596 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25042194] [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: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is an autoimmune liver disease characterised by the immune-mediated destruction of small and medium intrahepatic bile ducts, with variable outcomes and progression. This review summarises the state of the art regarding the risk of neoplastic progression in PBC patients, with a particular focus on the molecular alterations present in PBC and in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which is the most frequent liver cancer in these patients. Major risk factors are male gender, viral infections, e.g., HBV and HCV, non-response to UDCA, and high alcohol intake, as well as some metabolic-associated factors. Overall, HCC development is significantly more frequent in patients with advanced histological stages, being related to liver cirrhosis. It seems to be of fundamental importance to unravel eventual dysfunctional molecular pathways in PBC patients that may be used as biomarkers for HCC development. In the near future, this will possibly take advantage of artificial intelligence-designed algorithms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annarosa Floreani
- University of Padova, 35122 Padova, Italy;
- Scientific Consultant IRCCS Negrar, 37024 Verona, Italy
| | - Daniela Gabbia
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy;
| | - Sara De Martin
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy;
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Riaz F, Zhang J, Pan F. Forces at play: exploring factors affecting the cancer metastasis. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1274474. [PMID: 38361941 PMCID: PMC10867181 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1274474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Metastatic disease, a leading and lethal indication of deaths associated with tumors, results from the dissemination of metastatic tumor cells from the site of primary origin to a distant organ. Dispersion of metastatic cells during the development of tumors at distant organs leads to failure to comply with conventional treatments, ultimately instigating abrupt tissue homeostasis and organ failure. Increasing evidence indicates that the tumor microenvironment (TME) is a crucial factor in cancer progression and the process of metastatic tumor development at secondary sites. TME comprises several factors contributing to the initiation and progression of the metastatic cascade. Among these, various cell types in TME, such as mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs), cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), T cells, and tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), are significant players participating in cancer metastasis. Besides, various other factors, such as extracellular matrix (ECM), gut microbiota, circadian rhythm, and hypoxia, also shape the TME and impact the metastatic cascade. A thorough understanding of the functions of TME components in tumor progression and metastasis is necessary to discover new therapeutic strategies targeting the metastatic tumor cells and TME. Therefore, we reviewed these pivotal TME components and highlighted the background knowledge on how these cell types and disrupted components of TME influence the metastatic cascade and establish the premetastatic niche. This review will help researchers identify these altered components' molecular patterns and design an optimized, targeted therapy to treat solid tumors and restrict metastatic cascade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farooq Riaz
- Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology (SIAT), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shenzhen, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Oncology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Fan Pan
- Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology (SIAT), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shenzhen, China
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Singh S, Singh AP, Mitra R. Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts: Major Co-Conspirators in Tumor Development. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:211. [PMID: 38201638 PMCID: PMC10778099 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16010211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a critical determinant of tumor progression, metastasis, and therapeutic outcomes [...].
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Affiliation(s)
- Shubhangi Singh
- Department of International Studies (Global Health), College of Arts and Sciences, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL 36688, USA
- Cancer Biology Program, Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL 36604, USA
| | - Ajay P. Singh
- Cancer Biology Program, Mitchell Cancer Institute, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL 36604, USA
- Department of Pathology, Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL 36617, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL 36688, USA
| | - Ranjana Mitra
- Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Roseman University of Health Sciences, Las Vegas, NV 89135, USA
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Gu Y, Chen Q, Yin H, Zeng M, Gao S, Wang X. Cancer-associated fibroblasts in neoadjuvant setting for solid cancers. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2024; 193:104226. [PMID: 38056580 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2023.104226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Therapeutic approaches for cancer have become increasingly diverse in recent times. A comprehensive understanding of the tumor microenvironment (TME) holds great potential for enhancing the precision of tumor therapies. Neoadjuvant therapy offers the possibility of alleviating patient symptoms and improving overall quality of life. Additionally, it may facilitate the reduction of inoperable tumors and prevent potential preoperative micrometastases. Within the TME, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play a prominent role as they generate various elements that contribute to tumor progression. Particularly, extracellular matrix (ECM) produced by CAFs prevents immune cell infiltration into the TME, hampers drug penetration, and diminishes therapeutic efficacy. Therefore, this review provides a summary of the heterogeneity and interactions of CAFs within the TME, with a specific focus on the influence of neoadjuvant therapy on the microenvironment, particularly CAFs. Finally, we propose several potential and promising therapeutic strategies targeting CAFs, which may efficiently eliminate CAFs to decrease stroma density and impair their functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanan Gu
- Department of Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital and Shanghai Institute of Medical Imaging, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Interventional Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital Fudan University Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Qiangda Chen
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Cancer Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Hanlin Yin
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Cancer Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Mengsu Zeng
- Department of Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital and Shanghai Institute of Medical Imaging, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Shanshan Gao
- Department of Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital and Shanghai Institute of Medical Imaging, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
| | - Xiaolin Wang
- Department of Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital and Shanghai Institute of Medical Imaging, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Interventional Radiology, Zhongshan Hospital Fudan University Shanghai, 200032, China.
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Matsuoka T, Yashiro M. The Role of the Transforming Growth Factor-β Signaling Pathway in Gastrointestinal Cancers. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1551. [PMID: 37892233 PMCID: PMC10605301 DOI: 10.3390/biom13101551] [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: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) has attracted attention as a tumor suppressor because of its potent growth-suppressive effect on epithelial cells. Dysregulation of the TGF-β signaling pathway is considered to be one of the key factors in carcinogenesis, and genetic alterations affecting TGF-β signaling are extraordinarily common in cancers of the gastrointestinal system, such as hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer and pancreatic cancer. Accumulating evidence suggests that TGF-β is produced from various types of cells in the tumor microenvironment and mediates extracellular matrix deposition, tumor angiogenesis, the formation of CAFs, and suppression of the anti-tumor immune reaction. It is also being considered as a factor that promotes the malignant transformation of cancer, particularly the invasion and metastasis of cancer cells, including epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Therefore, elucidating the role of TGF-β signaling in carcinogenesis, cancer invasion, and metastasis will provide novel basic insight for diagnosis and prognosis and the development of new molecularly targeted therapies for gastrointestinal cancers. In this review, we outline an overview of the complex mechanisms and functions of TGF-β signaling. Furthermore, we discuss the therapeutic potentials of targeting the TGF-β signaling pathway for gastrointestinal cancer treatment and discuss the remaining challenges and future perspectives on targeting this pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Masakazu Yashiro
- Molecular Oncology and Therapeutics, Osaka Metropolitan University Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka 5458585, Japan;
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Pan Q, Gao M, Kim D, Ai W, Yang W, Jiang W, Brashear W, Dai Y, Li S, Sun Y, Qi Y, Guo S. Hepatocyte FoxO1 Deficiency Protects From Liver Fibrosis via Reducing Inflammation and TGF-β1-mediated HSC Activation. Cell Mol Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 17:41-58. [PMID: 37678798 PMCID: PMC10665954 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmgh.2023.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS The O-class of the forkhead transcription factor FoxO1 is a crucial factor mediating insulin→PI3K→Akt signaling and governs diverse cellular processes. However, the role of hepatocyte FoxO1 in liver fibrosis has not been well-established. In his study, we investigated the role of hepatocyte FoxO1 in liver fibrosis and uncovered the underlying mechanisms. METHODS Liver fibrosis was established by carbon tetrachloride (CCL4) administration and compared between liver-specific deletion of FoxO1 deletion (F1KO) and control (CNTR) mice. Using genetic and bioinformatic strategies in vitro and in vivo, the role of hepatic FoxO1 in liver fibrosis and associated mechanisms was established. RESULTS Increased FoxO1 expression and FoxO1 signaling activation were observed in CCL4-induced fibrosis. Hepatic FoxO1 deletion largely attenuated CCL4-induced liver injury and fibrosis compared with CNTR mice. F1KO mice showed ameliorated CCL4-induced hepatic inflammation and decreased TGF-β1 mRNA and protein levels compared with those of CNTR mice. In primary hepatocytes, FoxO1 deficiency reduced TGF-β1 expression and secretion. Conditioned medium (CM) collected from wild-type hepatocytes treated with CCL4 activated human HSC cell line (LX-2); such effect was attenuated by FoxO1 deletion in primary hepatocytes or neutralization of TGF-β1 in the CM using TGF-β1 antibody. Hepatic FoxO1 overexpression in CNTR mice promoted CCL4-induced HSC activation; such effect was blocked in L-TGF-β1KO mice. CONCLUSIONS Hepatic FoxO1 mediates CCL4-inducled liver fibrosis via upregulating hepatocyte TGF-β1 expression, stimulating hepatic inflammation and TGF-β1-mediated HSC activation. Hepatic FoxO1 may be a therapeutic target for prevention and treatment of liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quan Pan
- Department of Nutrition, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
| | - Mingming Gao
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Science, North China University of Science and Technology. Tangshan, China
| | - DaMi Kim
- Department of Nutrition, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
| | - Weiqi Ai
- Department of Nutrition, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
| | - Wanbao Yang
- Department of Nutrition, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
| | - Wen Jiang
- Department of Nutrition, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
| | - Wesley Brashear
- High Performance Research Computing, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
| | - Yujiao Dai
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Science, North China University of Science and Technology. Tangshan, China
| | - Sha Li
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Science, North China University of Science and Technology. Tangshan, China
| | - Yuxiang Sun
- Department of Nutrition, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
| | - Yajuan Qi
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Science, North China University of Science and Technology. Tangshan, China.
| | - Shaodong Guo
- Department of Nutrition, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas.
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11
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Lam KH, Ma S. Noncellular components in the liver cancer stem cell niche: Biology and potential clinical implications. Hepatology 2023; 78:991-1005. [PMID: 35727189 DOI: 10.1002/hep.32629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Revised: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are now recognized as one of the major root causes of therapy failure and tumor recurrence in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Early studies in the field focused primarily on the intrinsic regulators of CSC maintenance, but in recent years, mounting evidence has demonstrated the presence and role of extrinsic regulators in the tumor microenvironment (TME) in the control of liver CSCs. In addition to direct interaction with cellular components, noncellular components, including the extracellular matrix, hypoxia, nutrient deprivation, and secreted molecules within the tumor stroma and hepatitis viruses, also play a critical role in shaping the CSC niche. In this review, we highlight how various noncellular components in the TME play a role in regulating CSCs and how CSCs secrete components to interact with the TME to generate their own niche, working hand in hand to drive tumor physiology in HCC. In addition, we describe the potential clinical applications of these findings and propose perspectives on future research of noncellular components in the liver CSC niche.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ka-Hei Lam
- School of Biomedical Sciences , Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine , The University of Hong Kong , Hong Kong , Hong Kong
| | - Stephanie Ma
- School of Biomedical Sciences , Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine , The University of Hong Kong , Hong Kong , Hong Kong
- The University of Hong Kong , Shenzhen Hospital , Hong Kong , Hong Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Liver Research , The University of Hong Kong , Hong Kong , Hong Kong
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12
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Takayama H, Kobayashi S, Gotoh K, Sasaki K, Iwagami Y, Yamada D, Tomimaru Y, Akita H, Asaoka T, Noda T, Wada H, Takahashi H, Tanemura M, Doki Y, Eguchi H. SPARC accelerates biliary tract cancer progression through CTGF-mediated tumor-stroma interactions: SPARC as a prognostic marker of survival after neoadjuvant therapy. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2023; 149:10935-10950. [PMID: 37330435 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-023-04835-7] [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: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE In biliary tract cancer (BTC), malignancy is strongest at the invasion front. To improve the BTC prognosis, the invasion front should be controlled. We evaluated tumor-stroma crosstalk at the tumor center and at the invasion front of BTC lesions. We investigated the expression of SPARC, a marker of cancer-associated fibroblasts, and determined its ability to predict BTC prognosis after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (NAC-RT). METHODS We performed immunohistochemistry to evaluate SPARC expression in resected specimens from patients that underwent BTC surgery. We established highly invasive (HI) clones in two BTC cell lines (NOZ, CCLP1), and performed mRNA microarrays to compare gene expression in parental and HI cells. RESULTS Among 92 specimens, stromal SPARC expression was higher at the invasion front than at the lesion center (p = 0.014). Among 50 specimens from patients treated with surgery alone, high stromal SPARC expression at the invasion front was associated with a poor prognosis (recurrence-free survival: p = 0.033; overall survival: p = 0.017). Coculturing fibroblasts with NOZ-HI cells upregulated fibroblast SPARC expression. mRNA microarrays showed that connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) was upregulated in NOZ-HI and CCLP1-HI cells. A CTGF knockdown suppressed cell invasion in NOZ-HI cells. Exogeneous CTGF upregulated SPARC expression in fibroblasts. SPARC expression at the invasion front was significantly lower after NAC-RT, compared to surgery alone (p = 0.003). CONCLUSION CTGF was associated with tumor-stroma crosstalk in BTC. CTGF activated stromal SPARC expression, which promoted tumor progression, particularly at the invasion front. SPARC expression at the invasion front after NAC-RT may serve as a prognosis predictor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hirotoshi Takayama
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Shogo Kobayashi
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan.
| | - Kunihito Gotoh
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
- Department of Surgery, National Hospital Organization Osaka National Hospital, Osaka, Japan
| | - Kazuki Sasaki
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Yoshifumi Iwagami
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Daisaku Yamada
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Yoshito Tomimaru
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Hirofumi Akita
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka International Cancer Institute, Osaka, Japan
| | - Tadafumi Asaoka
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
- Department of Surgery, Osaka Police Hospital, Osaka, Japan
| | - Takehiro Noda
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Wada
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka International Cancer Institute, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hidenori Takahashi
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Masahiro Tanemura
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
- Department of Surgery, Rinku General Medical Center, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yuichiro Doki
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Hidetoshi Eguchi
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
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13
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Guo Y, Xu T, Chai Y, Chen F. TGF-β Signaling in Progression of Oral Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10263. [PMID: 37373414 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241210263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Oral cancer is a common malignancy worldwide, accounting for 1.9% to 3.5% of all malignant tumors. Transforming growth factor β (TGF-β), as one of the most important cytokines, is found to play complex and crucial roles in oral cancers. It may act in a pro-tumorigenic and tumor-suppressive manner; activities of the former include cell cycle progression inhibition, tumor microenvironment preparation, apoptosis promotion, stimulation of cancer cell invasion and metastasis, and suppression of immune surveillance. However, the triggering mechanisms of these distinct actions remain unclear. This review summarizes the molecular mechanisms of TGF-β signal transduction, focusing on oral squamous cell and salivary adenoid systemic carcinomas as well as keratocystic odontogenic tumors. Both the supporting and contrary evidence of the roles of TGF-β is discussed. Importantly, the TGF-β pathway has been the target of new drugs developed in the past decade, some having demonstrated promising therapeutic effects in clinical trials. Therefore, the achievements of TGF-β pathway-based therapeutics and their challenges are also assessed. The summarization and discussion of the updated knowledge of TGF-β signaling pathways will provide insight into the design of new strategies for oral cancer treatment, leading to an improvement in oral cancer outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Guo
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University Medicine School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
- Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Devices and Systems, College of Physics and Optoelectronic Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Tiansong Xu
- Central Laboratory, Peking University School of Stomatology, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Yujuan Chai
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University Medicine School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
| | - Feng Chen
- Central Laboratory, Peking University School of Stomatology, Beijing 100081, China
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14
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Arai J, Otoyama Y, Nozawa H, Kato N, Yoshida H. The immunological role of ADAMs in the field of gastroenterological chronic inflammatory diseases and cancers: a review. Oncogene 2023; 42:549-558. [PMID: 36572816 PMCID: PMC9937921 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-022-02583-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Metalloproteinases cleave transmembrane proteins that play critical roles in inflammation and cancers. Metalloproteinases include a disintegrin and metalloprotease (ADAM), which we previously examined using a fluorescence assay system, and described their association with resistance to systemic therapy in cancer patients. There are also many reports on the relation between ADAM expression and the prognosis of patients with gastroenterological chronic inflammatory diseases and cancers. Inhibiting their immunomodulating activity in chronic inflammation restores innate immunity and potentially prevents the development of various cancers. Among the numerous critical immune system-related molecules, we focus on major histocompatibility complex class I polypeptide-related sequence A (MICA), MICB, intracellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-1, TNF-α, IL-6 receptor (IL-6R), and Notch. This review summarizes our current understanding of the role of ADAMs in gastroenterological diseases with regard to the immune system. Several Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved inhibitors of ADAMs have been identified, and potential therapies for targeting ADAMs in the treatment of chronic inflammatory diseases and cancers are discussed. Some ongoing clinical trials for cancers targeting ADAMs are also introduced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Arai
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Showa University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Yumi Otoyama
- grid.410714.70000 0000 8864 3422Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Showa University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hisako Nozawa
- grid.410714.70000 0000 8864 3422Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Showa University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Naoya Kato
- grid.136304.30000 0004 0370 1101Department of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Yoshida
- grid.410714.70000 0000 8864 3422Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Showa University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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15
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Ma YB, Qiao JW, Hu X. Transmembrane serine protease 2 cleaves nidogen 1 and inhibits extrahepatic liver cancer cell migration and invasion. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2023; 248:91-105. [PMID: 36408877 PMCID: PMC10041054 DOI: 10.1177/15353702221134111] [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: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
We aimed to confirm whether transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2) regulates nidogen 1 (NID1) expression in extracellular vesicles (EVs) and metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells. HCC cells, HUVEC cells, MRC-5 cells, HLE cells, MHCCLM3 cells, MHCC97L cells, H2P cells, H2M cells, as well as LO2 cells were cultured according to providers' instruction and EV models were established by using BALB/cAnN-nu mice to facilitate the verifications. We found that TMPRSS2 expression was inversely correlated with the metastatic potential of HCC cell lines. The expression of TMPRSS2 decreased in a time-dependent manner in tumor-bearing model mice implanted with MHCCLM3 cells compared with uninoculated mice. TMPRSS2 overexpression in MHCCLM3 and MHCC97L cells led to the significant downregulation of NID1 expression in total cell lysates and isolated EVs. In contrast, TMPRSS2 silencing resulted in the elevation of NID1 expression in cells and EVs. Administration of EVs from MHCCLM3 and MHCC97L cells with overexpressed or silenced TMPRSS2 inhibited or strengthened, respectively, the invasion, proliferation, and migration of LO2 tumor cells. EVs derived from MHCCLM3 and MHCC97L cells with overexpressed or depleted TMPRSS2 also deactivated or activated fibroblasts, respectively. These EVs secrete inflammatory cytokines and phosphorylated p65, facilitate the colonization of fibroblasts, and augment fibroblast growth and motility. These findings provide evidence for a new candidate drug targeting tumorigenic EV-NID1 to treat HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong-Biao Ma
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Weifang People's Hospital, Weifang 261041, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan 250021, China
| | - Jian-Wen Qiao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Weihai Municipal Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Weihai 264200, China
| | - Xiao Hu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao 266003, China
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16
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Zhao J, Li R, Li J, Chen Z, Lin Z, Zhang B, Deng L, Chen G, Wang Y. CAFs-derived SCUBE1 promotes malignancy and stemness through the Shh/Gli1 pathway in hepatocellular carcinoma. J Transl Med 2022; 20:520. [DOI: 10.1186/s12967-022-03689-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Revised: 10/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
The tumour microenvironment and cirrhotic liver are excellent sources of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), which participate in carcinogenesis. Thus, it is important to clarify the crosstalk between CAFs and HCC cells and the related mechanism in regulating carcinogenesis.
Methods
Human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tissues and matched adjacent normal tissues were obtained from HCC patients. Immunohistochemistry, Western blotting (WB) and RT–qPCR were performed to detect the expression of SCUBE1. The roles of SCUBE1 in inducing stemness features in HCC cells were explored and investigated in vitro and in vivo. Student’s t tests or Mann–Whitney U tests were used to compare continuous variables, while chi-square tests or Fisher’s exact tests were used to compare categorical variables between two groups.
Results
SCUBE1 was confirmed to be highly expressed in CAFs in HCC and had a strong connection with stemness and a poor prognosis. In addition, CAFs were found to secrete SCUBE1 to enhance the malignancy of HCC cells and increase the proportion of CD133-positive cells. Silencing SCUBE1 expression had the opposite effect. The Shh pathway was activated by SCUBE1 stimulation. Inhibition of cyclopamine partially reversed the stimulating effect of SCUBE1 both in vivo and in vitro. Moreover, based on the RT–qPCR, ELISA and WB results, a high SCUBE1 expression level was found in HCC tissue and serum.
Conclusion
This study revealed that CAFs-derived SCUBE1 can enhance the malignancy and stemness of HCC cells through the Shh pathway. This study aims to provide new perspectives for future HCC studies and provide new strategies for HCC treatment.
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17
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The immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment in hepatocellular carcinoma-current situation and outlook. Mol Immunol 2022; 151:218-230. [PMID: 36179604 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2022.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most severe malignant tumors that threaten human health, and its incidence is still on the rise recently. In spite of the current emerging treatment strategies, the overall prognosis of liver cancer remains worrying. Currently, immunotherapy has become a new research-active spot. The emergence of immune checkpoints and targeted immune cell therapy can significantly improve the prognosis of HCC. To a large extent, the effect of this immunotherapy depends on the tumor immune microenvironment (TME), an intricate system in which cancer cells and other non-cancer cells display various interactions. Understanding the immunosuppressive situation of these cells, along with the malignant behavior of cancer cells, can assist us to design new therapeutic approaches against tumors. Therefore, it is necessary to clarify the TME of HCC for further improvement of clinical treatment. This review discussed the functions of several immunosuppressive cells and exosomes in the latest research progress of HCC, including cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and tumor-associated neutrophils (TANs) interacted actively to facilitate tumor progression. It further describes the treatment methods targeting them and the potential that needs to be explored in the future.
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18
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Wu C, Gu J, Gu H, Zhang X, Zhang X, Ji R. The recent advances of cancer associated fibroblasts in cancer progression and therapy. Front Oncol 2022; 12:1008843. [PMID: 36185262 PMCID: PMC9516766 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1008843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
As an abundant component of tumor microenvironment, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are heterogeneous cell populations that play important roles in tumor development, progression and therapeutic resistance. Multiple sources of cells can be recruited and educated to become CAFs, such as fibroblasts, mesenchymal stem cells and adipocytes, which may explain the phenotypic and functional heterogeneity of CAFs. It is widely believed that CAFs regulate tumor progression by remodeling extracellular matrix, promoting angiogenesis, and releasing soluble cytokines, making them a promising cancer therapy target. In this review, we discussed about the origin, subpopulation, and functional heterogeneity of CAFs, with particular attention to recent research advances and clinical therapeutic potential of CAFs in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenxi Wu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, the Affiliated People’s Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Jianmei Gu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Nantong Tumor Hospital, Nantong, China
| | - Hongbing Gu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, the Affiliated People’s Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - XiaoXin Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Xu Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Runbi Ji
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, the Affiliated People’s Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
- *Correspondence: Runbi Ji,
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19
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Peng H, Zhu E, Zhang Y. Advances of cancer-associated fibroblasts in liver cancer. Biomark Res 2022; 10:59. [PMID: 35971182 PMCID: PMC9380339 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-022-00406-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer is one of the most common malignant tumors worldwide, it is ranked sixth in incidence and fourth in mortality. According to the distinct origin of malignant tumor cells, liver cancer is mainly divided into hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and cholangiocarcinoma (CCA). Since most cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage, the prognosis of liver cancer is poor. Tumor growth depends on the dynamic interaction of various cellular components in the tumor microenvironment (TME). As the most abundant components of tumor stroma, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) have been involved in the progression of liver cancer. The interplay between CAFs and tumor cells, immune cells, or vascular endothelial cells in the TME through direct cell-to-cell contact or indirect paracrine interaction, affects the initiation and development of tumors. Additionally, CAFs are not a homogeneous cell population in liver cancer. Recently, single-cell sequencing technology has been used to help better understand the diversity of CAFs in liver cancer. In this review, we mainly update the knowledge of CAFs both in HCC and CCA, including their cell origins, chemoresistance, tumor stemness induction, tumor immune microenvironment formation, and the role of tumor cells on CAFs. Understanding the context-dependent role of different CAFs subsets provides new strategies for precise liver cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Peng
- Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Erwei Zhu
- The Second People's Hospital of Lianyungang (The Oncology Hospital of Lianyungang), Lianyungang, 222006, China
| | - Yewei Zhang
- Hepatopancreatobiliary Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
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20
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Khafaga AF, Mousa SA, Aleya L, Abdel-Daim MM. Three-dimensional (3D) cell culture: a valuable step in advancing treatments for human hepatocellular carcinoma. Cancer Cell Int 2022; 22:243. [PMID: 35908054 PMCID: PMC9339175 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-022-02662-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most common malignant cancer and the third most frequent cause of tumour-related mortality worldwide. Currently, several surgical and medical therapeutic strategies are available for HCCs; however, the interaction between neoplastic cells and non-neoplastic stromal cells within the tumour microenvironment (TME) results in strong therapeutic resistance of HCCs to conventional treatment. Therefore, the development of novel treatments is urgently needed to improve the survival of patients with HCC. The first step in developing efficient chemotherapeutic drugs is the establishment of an appropriate system for studying complex tumour culture and microenvironment interactions. Three-dimensional (3D) culture model might be a crucial bridge between in vivo and in vitro due to its ability to mimic the naturally complicated in vivo TME compared to conventional two-dimensional (2D) cultures. In this review, we shed light on various established 3D culture models of HCC and their role in the investigation of tumour-TME interactions and HCC-related therapeutic resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asmaa F Khafaga
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Alexandria University, Edfina, 22758, Egypt.
| | - Shaker A Mousa
- Pharmaceutical Research Institute, Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Rensselaer, NY, 12144, USA
| | - Lotfi Aleya
- Chrono-Environnement Laboratory, UMR CNRS 6249, Bourgogne Franche-Comté University, 25030, Besançon Cedex, France
| | - Mohamed M Abdel-Daim
- Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, 41522, Egypt.,Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmacy Program, Batterjee Medical College, P.O. Box 6231, Jeddah 21442, Saudi Arabia
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21
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Huang Y, Wang T, Yang J, Wu X, Fan W, Chen J. Current Strategies for the Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma by Modulating the Tumor Microenvironment via Nano-Delivery Systems: A Review. Int J Nanomedicine 2022; 17:2335-2352. [PMID: 35619893 PMCID: PMC9128750 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s363456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer remains a global health challenge with a projected incidence of over one million cases by 2025. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common primary liver cancer, accounting for about 90% of all liver cancer cases. The tumor microenvironment (TME) is the internal and external environment for tumor development, which plays an important role in tumorigenesis, immune escape and treatment resistance. Knowing that TME is a unique setting for HCC tumorigenesis, exploration of strategies to modulate TME has attracted increasing attention. Among them, the use of nano-delivery systems to deliver therapeutic agents to regulate TME components has shown great potential. TME-modulating nanoparticles have the advantages of protecting therapeutic agents from degradation, enhancing the ability of targeting HCC and reducing systemic toxicity. In this article, we summarize the TME components associated with HCC, including cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), extracellular matrix (ECM), endothelial cells and immune cells, discuss their impact on the HCC progression, and highlight recent studies on nano-delivery systems that modulate these components. Finally, we also discuss opportunities and challenges in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongjie Huang
- Department of Pharmacy, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Tiansi Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiefen Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Wu
- Department of Pharmacy, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, People's Republic of China.,Shanghai Wei Er Lab, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Fan
- Seventh People's Hospital of Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianming Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, People's Republic of China
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22
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Feng B, Wu J, Shen B, Jiang F, Feng J. Cancer-associated fibroblasts and resistance to anticancer therapies: status, mechanisms, and countermeasures. Cancer Cell Int 2022; 22:166. [PMID: 35488263 PMCID: PMC9052457 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-022-02599-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are critical components of the tumor microenvironment (TME) with diverse functions such as extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, modulation of metabolism and angiogenesis, and crosstalk with both cancer cells and infiltrating immune cells by production of growth factors, cytokines, and chemokines. Within the TME milieu, CAFs exhibit morphological and functional transitions with relatively specific markers and hold tremendous potential to facilitate tumorigenesis, development, and resistance towards multiple therapeutic strategies including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapy, anti-angiogenesis therapy, immunotherapy, and endocrine therapy. Accordingly, CAFs themselves and the downstream effectors and/or signaling pathways are potential targets for optimizing the sensitivity of anti-cancer therapies. This review aims to provide a detailed landscape of the role that CAFs play in conferring therapeutic resistance in different cancers and the underlying mechanisms. The translational and therapeutic perspectives of CAFs in the individualized treatment of malignant tumors are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing Feng
- Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research & The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 42 Baiziting, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Jianzhong Wu
- Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research & The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 42 Baiziting, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Bo Shen
- Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research & The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 42 Baiziting, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Feng Jiang
- Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research & The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 42 Baiziting, Nanjing, 210009, China.
| | - Jifeng Feng
- Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research & The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 42 Baiziting, Nanjing, 210009, China.
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23
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Dituri F, Gigante G, Scialpi R, Mancarella S, Fabregat I, Giannelli G. Proteoglycans in Cancer: Friends or Enemies? A Special Focus on Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14081902. [PMID: 35454809 PMCID: PMC9024587 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14081902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Proteoglycans affect multiple molecular and cellular processes during the progression of solid tumors with a highly desmoplastic stroma, such as HCC. Due to their role in enhancing or limiting the traits of cancer cells underlying their aggressiveness, such as proliferation, angiogenesis, epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), and stemness, these macromolecules could be exploited as molecular targets or therapeutic agents. Proteoglycans, such as biglycan, versican, syndecan-1, glypican-3, and agrin, promote HCC cell proliferation, EMT, and angiogenesis, while endostatin and proteoglycan 4 were shown to impair cancer neovascularization or to enhance the sensitivity of HCC cells to drugs, such as sorafenib and regorafenib. Based on this evidence, interventional strategies involving the use of humanized monoclonal antibodies, T cells engineered with chimeric antigen receptors, or recombinant proteins mimicking potentially curative proteoglycans, are being employed or may be adopted in the near future for the treatment of HCC. Abstract Proteoglycans are a class of highly glycosylated proteins expressed in virtually all tissues, which are localized within membranes, but more often in the pericellular space and extracellular matrix (ECM), and are involved in tissue homeostasis and remodeling of the stromal microenvironment during physiological and pathological processes, such as tissue regeneration, angiogenesis, and cancer. In general, proteoglycans can perform signaling activities and influence a range of physical, chemical, and biological tissue properties, including the diffusivity of small electrolytes and nutrients and the bioavailability of growth factors. While the dysregulated expression of some proteoglycans is observed in many cancers, whether they act as supporters or limiters of neoplastic progression is still a matter of controversy, as the tumor promoting or suppressive function of some proteoglycans is context dependent. The participation of multiple proteoglycans in organ regeneration (as demonstrated for the liver in hepatectomy mouse models) and in cancer suggests that these molecules actively influence cell growth and motility, thus contributing to key events that characterize neoplastic progression. In this review, we outline the main roles of proteoglycans in the physiology and pathology of cancers, with a special mention to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), highlighting the translational potential of proteoglycans as targets or therapeutic agents for the treatment of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Dituri
- National Institute of Gastroenterology Saverio de Bellis, IRCCS Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy; (G.G.); (R.S.); (S.M.); (G.G.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Gianluigi Gigante
- National Institute of Gastroenterology Saverio de Bellis, IRCCS Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy; (G.G.); (R.S.); (S.M.); (G.G.)
| | - Rosanna Scialpi
- National Institute of Gastroenterology Saverio de Bellis, IRCCS Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy; (G.G.); (R.S.); (S.M.); (G.G.)
| | - Serena Mancarella
- National Institute of Gastroenterology Saverio de Bellis, IRCCS Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy; (G.G.); (R.S.); (S.M.); (G.G.)
| | - Isabel Fabregat
- Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), CIBEREHD and University of Barcelona, L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, 08908 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Gianluigi Giannelli
- National Institute of Gastroenterology Saverio de Bellis, IRCCS Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy; (G.G.); (R.S.); (S.M.); (G.G.)
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CaMKII Mediates TGFβ1-Induced Fibroblasts Activation and Its Cross Talk with Colon Cancer Cells. Dig Dis Sci 2022; 67:134-145. [PMID: 33528688 DOI: 10.1007/s10620-021-06847-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2019] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), as the activated fibroblasts in tumor stroma, are important modifiers of tumor progression. TGFβ1 has been the mostly accepted factor to fuel normal fibroblasts transformation into CAFs. Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) is thought to play an important role in fibroblasts activation induced by TGFβ1. The aim of this study is to investigate the potential role of CaMKII in TGFβ1-induced fibroblasts activation and CAF-like differentiation. Cross talk between CaMKII-dependent fibroblasts and colon cancer in colon cancer progression also was addressed RESULTS: Immunostaining demonstrated that in colon cancer stroma, CaMKII overexpressed in stromal CAFs. In vitro, TGFβ1 increased CAF markers expression in human colon fibroblasts CCD-18Co, but not in CaMKII depletion fibroblasts. CaMKII knockdown by CaMKII shRNA significantly inhibited TGFβ1-induced fibroblasts activation and CAF-like differentiation. Smad3, AKT, and MAPK were targeted in TGFβ1-CaMKII-mediated pathway. Human colon cancer cell line HCT-116 activated fibroblasts directly, whereas CaMKII depletion dragged CCD-18Co fibroblasts undergoing CAF-associated trans-differentiation. Furthermore, increased proliferation, migration, and invasion of colon cancer cells were stimulated when co-cultured with normal fibroblasts, but not with CaMKII depletion fibroblasts. CONCLUSIONS These findings provide evidence that CaMKII is a critical mediator in TGFβ1-induced fibroblasts activation and is involved in the cross talk with colon cancer cells. CaMKII is a potentially effective target for future treatment of colon cancer.
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Direct and Indirect Effect of TGFβ on Treg Transendothelial Recruitment in HCC Tissue Microenvironment. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222111765. [PMID: 34769191 PMCID: PMC8583957 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The balance between anti-tumor and tumor-promoting immune cells, such as CD4+ Th1 and regulatory T cells (Tregs), respectively, is assumed to dictate the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) markedly shapes the HCC microenvironment, regulating the activation state of multiple leukocyte subsets and driving the differentiation of cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs). The fibrotic (desmoplastic) reaction in HCC tissue strongly depends on CAFs activity. In this study, we attempted to assess the role of TGFβ on transendothelial migration of Th1-oriented and Treg-oriented CD4+ T cells via a direct or indirect, CAF-mediated mechanisms, respectively. We found that the blockage of TGFβ receptor I-dependent signaling in Tregs resulted in impaired transendothelial migration (TEM) of these cells. Interestingly, the secretome of TGFβ-treated CAFs inhibited the TEM of Tregs but not Th1 cells, in comparison to the secretome of untreated CAFs. In addition, we found a significant inverse correlation between alpha-SMA and FoxP3 (marker of Tregs) mRNA expression in a microarray analysis involving 78 HCCs, thus suggesting that TGFβ-activated stromal cells may counteract the trafficking of Tregs into the tumor. The apparent dual behavior of TGFβ as both pro- and anti-tumorigenic cytokines may add a further level of complexity to the mechanisms that regulate the interactions among cancerous, stromal, and immune cells within HCC, as well as other solid tumors, and contribute to better manipulation of the TGFβ signaling as a therapeutic target in HCC patients.
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Asif PJ, Longobardi C, Hahne M, Medema JP. The Role of Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts in Cancer Invasion and Metastasis. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:4720. [PMID: 34572947 PMCID: PMC8472587 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13184720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play a key role in cancer progression by contributing to extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition and remodeling, extensive crosstalk with cancer cells, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), invasion, metastasis, and therapy resistance. As metastasis is a main reason for cancer-related deaths, it is crucial to understand the role of CAFs in this process. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a heterogeneous disease and lethality is especially common in a subtype of CRC with high stromal infiltration. A key component of stroma is cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). To provide new perspectives for research on CAFs and CAF-targeted therapeutics, especially in CRC, we discuss the mechanisms, crosstalk, and functions involved in CAF-mediated cancer invasion, metastasis, and protection. This summary can serve as a framework for future studies elucidating these roles of CAFs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paris Jabeen Asif
- Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (P.J.A.); (C.L.)
- Oncode Institute, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ciro Longobardi
- Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (P.J.A.); (C.L.)
- Oncode Institute, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Michael Hahne
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, Université de Montpellier, 34090 Montpellier, France;
| | - Jan Paul Medema
- Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (P.J.A.); (C.L.)
- Oncode Institute, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Wan Kamarul Zaman WS, Nurul AA, Nordin F. Stem Cells and Cancer Stem Cells: The Jekyll and Hyde Scenario and Their Implications in Stem Cell Therapy. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9091245. [PMID: 34572431 PMCID: PMC8468168 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9091245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
"Jekyll and Hyde" refers to persons with an unpredictably dual personality, who are battling between good and evil within themselves In this regard, even cells consist of good and evil counterparts. Normal stem cells (NSCs) and cancer stem cells (CSCs) are two types of cells that share some similar characteristics but have distinct functions that play a major role in physiological and pathophysiological development. In reality, NSCs such as the adult and embryonic stem cells, are the good cells and the ultimate treatment used in cell therapy. CSCs are the corrupted cells that are a subpopulation of cancer cells within the cancer microenvironment that grow into a massive tumour or malignancy that needs to be treated. Hence, understanding the connection between NSCs and CSCs is important not just in cancer development but also in their therapeutic implication, which is the focus of this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wan Safwani Wan Kamarul Zaman
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
- Centre for Innovation in Medical Engineering (CIME), Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
- Correspondence:
| | - Asma Abdullah Nurul
- School of Health Science, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian 16150, Kelantan, Malaysia;
| | - Fazlina Nordin
- Centre for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine (CTERM), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, UKM, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia;
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Shi X, Luo J, Weigel KJ, Hall SC, Du D, Wu F, Rudolph MC, Zhou H, Young CD, Wang XJ. Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts Facilitate Squamous Cell Carcinoma Lung Metastasis in Mice by Providing TGFβ-Mediated Cancer Stem Cell Niche. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:668164. [PMID: 34527666 PMCID: PMC8435687 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.668164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) have been shown to enhance squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) growth, but it is unclear whether they promote SCC lung metastasis. We generated CAFs from K15.KrasG12D.Smad4-/- mouse SCCs. RNA expression analyses demonstrated that CAFs had enriched transforming growth factor-beta (TGFβ) signaling compared to normal tissue-associated fibroblasts (NAFs), therefore we assessed how TGFβ-enriched CAFs impact SCC metastasis. We co-injected SCC cells with CAFs to the skin, tail vein, or the lung to mimic sequential steps of lung metastasis. CAFs increased SCC volume only in lung co-transplantations, characterized with increased proliferation and angiogenesis and decreased apoptosis compared to NAF co-transplanted SCCs. These CAF effects were attenuated by a clinically relevant TGFβ receptor inhibitor, suggesting that CAFs facilitated TGFβ-dependent SCC cell seeding and survival in the lung. CAFs also increased tumor volume when co-transplanted to the lung with limiting numbers of SCC cancer stem cells (CSCs). In vitro, CSC sphere formation and invasion were increased either with co-cultured CAFs or with CAF conditioned media (which contains the highest TGFβ1 concentration) and these CAF effects were blocked by TGFβ inhibition. Further, TGFβ activation was higher in primary human oral SCCs with lung metastasis than SCCs without lung metastasis. Similarly, TGFβ activation was detected in the lungs of mice with micrometastasis. Our data suggest that TGFβ-enriched CAFs play a causal role in CSC seeding and expansion in the lung during SCC metastasis, providing a prognostic marker and therapeutic target for SCC lung metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueke Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Jingjing Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Kelsey J. Weigel
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Spencer C. Hall
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Danfeng Du
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Fanglong Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Michael C. Rudolph
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Diabetes, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Hongmei Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Christian D. Young
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Xiao-Jing Wang
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center, VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System, Aurora, CO, United States
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Chandra Jena B, Sarkar S, Rout L, Mandal M. The transformation of cancer-associated fibroblasts: Current perspectives on the role of TGF-β in CAF mediated tumor progression and therapeutic resistance. Cancer Lett 2021; 520:222-232. [PMID: 34363903 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2021.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Over the last few years, the Transforming growth factor- β (TGF-β) has been significantly considered as an effective and ubiquitous mediator of cell growth. The cytokine, TGF-β is being increasingly recognized as the most potent inducer of cancer cell initiation, differentiation, migration as well as progression through both the SMAD-dependent and independent pathways. There is growing evidence that supports the role of secretory cytokine TGF-β as a crucial mediator of tumor-stroma crosstalk. Contextually, the CAFs are the prominent component of tumor stroma that helps in tumor progression and onset of chemoresistance. The interplay between the CAFs and the tumor cells through the paracrine signals is facilitated by cytokine TGF-β to induce the malignant progression. Here in this review, we have dissected the most recent advancements in understanding the mechanisms of TGF-β induced CAF activation, their multiple origins, and most importantly their role in conferring chemoresistance. Considering the pivotal role of TGF-β in tumor perogression and associated stemness, it is one the proven clinical targets We have also included the clinical trials going on, targeting the TGF-β and CAFs crosstalk with the tumor cells. Ultimately, we have underscored some of the outstanding issues that must be deciphered with utmost importance to unravel the successful strategies of anti-cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bikash Chandra Jena
- School of Medical Science and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, West Bengal, India
| | - Siddik Sarkar
- CSIR-Indian Institue of Chemical Biology, Translational Research Unit of Excellence, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Lipsa Rout
- Department of Chemistry, Institute of Technical Education and Research, Siksha'O'Anusandhan Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Mahitosh Mandal
- School of Medical Science and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, West Bengal, India.
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Belhabib I, Zaghdoudi S, Lac C, Bousquet C, Jean C. Extracellular Matrices and Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts: Targets for Cancer Diagnosis and Therapy? Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:3466. [PMID: 34298680 PMCID: PMC8303391 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13143466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Solid cancer progression is dictated by neoplastic cell features and pro-tumoral crosstalks with their microenvironment. Stroma modifications, such as fibroblast activation into cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, are now recognized as critical events for cancer progression and as potential therapeutic or diagnostic targets. The recent appreciation of the key, complex and multiple roles of the ECM in cancer and of the CAF diversity, has revolutionized the field and raised innovative but challenging questions. Here, we rapidly present CAF heterogeneity in link with their specific ECM remodeling features observed in cancer, before developing each of the impacts of such ECM modifications on tumor progression (survival, angiogenesis, pre-metastatic niche, chemoresistance, etc.), and on patient prognosis. Finally, based on preclinical studies and recent results obtained from clinical trials, we highlight key mechanisms or proteins that are, or may be, used as potential therapeutic or diagnostic targets, and we report and discuss benefits, disappointments, or even failures, of recently reported stroma-targeting strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Christine Jean
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Toulouse (CRCT), INSERM U1037, Université Toulouse III Paul Sabatier, ERL5294 CNRS, 31037 Toulouse, France; (I.B.); (S.Z.); (C.L.); (C.B.)
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Wu F, Yang J, Liu J, Wang Y, Mu J, Zeng Q, Deng S, Zhou H. Signaling pathways in cancer-associated fibroblasts and targeted therapy for cancer. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2021; 6:218. [PMID: 34108441 PMCID: PMC8190181 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-021-00641-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 251] [Impact Index Per Article: 83.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
To flourish, cancers greatly depend on their surrounding tumor microenvironment (TME), and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in TME are critical for cancer occurrence and progression because of their versatile roles in extracellular matrix remodeling, maintenance of stemness, blood vessel formation, modulation of tumor metabolism, immune response, and promotion of cancer cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and therapeutic resistance. CAFs are highly heterogeneous stromal cells and their crosstalk with cancer cells is mediated by a complex and intricate signaling network consisting of transforming growth factor-beta, phosphoinositide 3-kinase/AKT/mammalian target of rapamycin, mitogen-activated protein kinase, Wnt, Janus kinase/signal transducers and activators of transcription, epidermal growth factor receptor, Hippo, and nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells, etc., signaling pathways. These signals in CAFs exhibit their own special characteristics during the cancer progression and have the potential to be targeted for anticancer therapy. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of these signaling cascades in interactions between cancer cells and CAFs is necessary to fully realize the pivotal roles of CAFs in cancers. Herein, in this review, we will summarize the enormous amounts of findings on the signals mediating crosstalk of CAFs with cancer cells and its related targets or trials. Further, we hypothesize three potential targeting strategies, including, namely, epithelial-mesenchymal common targets, sequential target perturbation, and crosstalk-directed signaling targets, paving the way for CAF-directed or host cell-directed antitumor therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanglong Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Jin Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Junjiang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Ye Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingtian Mu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Qingxiang Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuzhi Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongmei Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China.
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Patel SS, Sandur A, El-Kebir M, Gaba RC, Schook LB, Schachtschneider KM. Transcriptional Profiling of Porcine HCC Xenografts Provides Insights Into Tumor Cell Microenvironment Signaling. Front Genet 2021; 12:657330. [PMID: 33995488 PMCID: PMC8118521 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.657330] [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: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the second leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide, representing the most common form of liver cancer. As HCC incidence and mortality continue to increase, there is a growing need for improved translational animal models to bridge the gap between basic HCC research and clinical practice to improve early detection and treatment strategies for this deadly disease. Recently the Oncopig cancer model-a novel transgenic swine model that recapitulates human cancer through Cre recombinase induced expression of KRAS G12D and TP53 R167H driver mutations-has been validated as a large animal translational model for human HCC. Due to the similar size, anatomy, physiology, immunology, genetics, and epigenetics between pigs and humans, the Oncopig has the potential to improve translation of novel diagnostic and therapeutic modalities into clinical practice. Recent studies have demonstrated the importance of tumor cells in shaping its surrounding microenvironment into one that is more proliferative, invasive, and metastatic; however, little is known about the impact of microenvironment signaling on HCC tumor biology and differential gene expression between HCC tumors and its tumor microenvironment (TME). In this study, transcriptional profiling was performed on Oncopig HCC xenograft tumors (n = 3) produced via subcutaneous injection of Oncopig HCC cells into severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) mice. To differentiate between gene expression in the tumor and surrounding tumor microenvironment, RNA-seq reads originating from porcine (HCC tumor) and murine (microenvironment) cells were bioinformatically separated using Xenome. Principle component analysis (PCA) demonstrated clustering by group based on the expression of orthologous genes. Genes contributing to each principal component were extracted and subjected to functional analysis to identify alterations in pathway signaling between HCC cells and the microenvironment. Altered expression of genes associated with hepatic fibrosis deposition, immune response, and neo angiogenesis were observed. The results of this study provide insights into the interplay between HCC and microenvironment signaling in vivo, improving our understanding of the interplay between HCC tumor cells, the surrounding tumor microenvironment, and the impact on HCC development and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shovik S. Patel
- Department of Radiology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Amitha Sandur
- Department of Computer Science, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Mohammed El-Kebir
- Department of Computer Science, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Ron C. Gaba
- Department of Radiology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Lawrence B. Schook
- Department of Radiology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
- National Center for Supercomputing Applications, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Kyle M. Schachtschneider
- Department of Radiology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
- National Center for Supercomputing Applications, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
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Sharma N, Hans CP. Interleukin 12p40 Deficiency Promotes Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm by Activating CCN2/MMP2 Pathways. J Am Heart Assoc 2021; 10:e017633. [PMID: 33470127 PMCID: PMC7955443 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.120.017633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Background Development of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is associated with proinflammatory cytokines including interleukin-12 (IL12). Deficiency of interleukin 12p40 (IL12p40) increases localized fibrotic events by promoting TGFβ2 (transforming growth factor β)-dependent anti-inflammatory response. Here, we determined whether IL12p40 deficiency in apolipoprotein E-/- mice attenuates the development of AAA by antagonizing proinflammatory response. Methods and Results Double knockout (DKO) mice were generated by crossbreeding IL12p40-/- mice with apolipoprotein E-/- mice (n=12). Aneurysmal studies were performed using angiotensin II (1 µg/kg/min; subcutaneous). Surprisingly, DKO mice did not prevent the development of AAA with angiotensin II infusion. Immunohistological analysis, however, showed distinct pathological features between apolipoprotein E-/- and DKO mice. Polymerase chain reaction (7 day) and cytokine arrays (28 day) of the aortic tissues from DKO mice showed significantly increased expression of cytokines related to anti-inflammatory response (interleukin 5 and interleukin 13), synthetic vascular smooth muscle cell phenotype (Activin receptor-like kinase-1 (ALK-1), artemin, and betacellulin) and T helper 17-associated response (4-1BB, interleukin-17e (Il17e) and Cd40 ligand (Cd-40L)). Indeed, DKO mice exhibited increased expression of the fibro-proteolytic pathway in the medial layer of aortae induced by cellular communication network factor 2 (CCN2) and Cd3+IL17+ cells compared with apolipoprotein E-/- mice. Laser capture microdissection showed predominant expression of CCN2/TGFβ2 in the medial layer of human AAA. Finally, Ccn2 haploinsufficiency in the mice showed decreased AAA incidence in response to elastase infusion, associated with decreased matrix metalloproteinase-2 expression. Conclusions Our study reveals novel roles for IL12p40 deficiency in inducing fibro-proteolytic activities in the aneurysmal mouse model. Mechanistically, these effects of IL12p40 deficiency are mediated by CCN2/matrix metalloproteinase-2 crosstalk in the medial layer of aneurysmal aortae.
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MESH Headings
- Aged
- Animals
- Aorta, Abdominal/diagnostic imaging
- Aorta, Abdominal/metabolism
- Aorta, Abdominal/physiopathology
- Aortic Aneurysm, Abdominal/etiology
- Aortic Aneurysm, Abdominal/genetics
- Aortic Aneurysm, Abdominal/metabolism
- Blotting, Western
- Cells, Cultured
- Connective Tissue Growth Factor/biosynthesis
- Connective Tissue Growth Factor/genetics
- Disease Models, Animal
- Electrocardiography
- Female
- Gene Expression Regulation
- Humans
- Interleukin-12 Subunit p40/blood
- Interleukin-12 Subunit p40/deficiency
- Male
- Matrix Metalloproteinase 2/biosynthesis
- Matrix Metalloproteinase 2/genetics
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Mice, Knockout
- Middle Aged
- RNA/genetics
- T-Lymphocytes/metabolism
- T-Lymphocytes/pathology
- Ultrasonography
- Vascular Stiffness/physiology
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Affiliation(s)
- Neekun Sharma
- Department of Cardiovascular MedicineUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMO
- Dalton Cardiovascular Research CenterUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMO
| | - Chetan P. Hans
- Department of Cardiovascular MedicineUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMO
- Dalton Cardiovascular Research CenterUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMO
- Department of Medical Pharmacology and PhysiologyUniversity of MissouriColumbiaMO
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Targeting CTGF in Cancer: An Emerging Therapeutic Opportunity. Trends Cancer 2020; 7:511-524. [PMID: 33358571 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2020.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Despite the dramatic advances in cancer research over the decades, effective therapeutic strategies are still urgently needed. Increasing evidence indicates that connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), a multifunctional signaling modulator, promotes cancer initiation, progression, and metastasis by regulating cell proliferation, migration, invasion, drug resistance, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). CTGF is also involved in the tumor microenvironment in most of the nodes, including angiogenesis, inflammation, and cancer-associated fibroblast (CAF) activation. In this review, we comprehensively discuss the expression of CTGF and its regulation, oncogenic role, clinical relevance, targeting strategies, and therapeutic agents. Herein, we propose that CTGF is a promising cancer therapeutic target that could potentially improve the clinical outcomes of cancer patients.
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35
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Transforming Growth Factor-β Signaling in Fibrotic Diseases and Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10121666. [PMID: 33322749 PMCID: PMC7763058 DOI: 10.3390/biom10121666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Revised: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling is essential in embryo development and maintaining normal homeostasis. Extensive evidence shows that TGF-β activation acts on several cell types, including epithelial cells, fibroblasts, and immune cells, to form a pro-fibrotic environment, ultimately leading to fibrotic diseases. TGF-β is stored in the matrix in a latent form; once activated, it promotes a fibroblast to myofibroblast transition and regulates extracellular matrix (ECM) formation and remodeling in fibrosis. TGF-β signaling can also promote cancer progression through its effects on the tumor microenvironment. In cancer, TGF-β contributes to the generation of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) that have different molecular and cellular properties from activated or fibrotic fibroblasts. CAFs promote tumor progression and chronic tumor fibrosis via TGF-β signaling. Fibrosis and CAF-mediated cancer progression share several common traits and are closely related. In this review, we consider how TGF-β promotes fibrosis and CAF-mediated cancer progression. We also discuss recent evidence suggesting TGF-β inhibition as a defense against fibrotic disorders or CAF-mediated cancer progression to highlight the potential implications of TGF-β-targeted therapies for fibrosis and cancer.
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36
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Dituri F, Scialpi R, Schmidt TA, Frusciante M, Mancarella S, Lupo LG, Villa E, Giannelli G. Proteoglycan-4 is correlated with longer survival in HCC patients and enhances sorafenib and regorafenib effectiveness via CD44 in vitro. Cell Death Dis 2020; 11:984. [PMID: 33199679 PMCID: PMC7669886 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-020-03180-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Revised: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Sorafenib and regorafenib administration is among the preferential approaches to treat hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but does not provide satisfactory benefits. Intensive crosstalk occurring between cancer cells and other multiple non-cancerous cell subsets present in the surrounding microenvironment is assumed to affect tumor progression. This interplay is mediated by a number of soluble and structural extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins enriching the stromal milieu. Here we assess the HCC tumor expression of the ECM protein proteoglycan 4 (PRG4) and its potential pharmacologic activity either alone, or in combination with sorafenib and regorafenib. PRG4 mRNA levels resulted strongly correlated with increased survival rate of HCC patients (p = 0.000) in a prospective study involving 78 HCC subjects. We next showed that transforming growth factor beta stimulates PRG4 expression and secretion by primary human HCC cancer-associated fibroblasts, non-invasive HCC cell lines, and ex vivo specimens. By functional tests we found that recombinant human PRG4 (rhPRG4) impairs HCC cell migration. More importantly, the treatment of HCC cells expressing CD44 (the main PRG4 receptor) with rhPRG4 dramatically enhances the growth-limiting capacity of sorafenib and regorafenib, whereas not significantly affecting cell proliferation per se. Conversely, rhPRG4 only poorly potentiates drug effectiveness on low CD44-expressing or stably CD44-silenced HCC cells. Overall, these data suggest that the physiologically-produced compound PRG4 may function as a novel tumor-suppressive agent by strengthening sorafenib and regorafenib effects in the treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Dituri
- National Institute of Gastroenterology "S. De Bellis" Research Hospital, 70013, Castellana Grotte, Italy.
| | - Rosanna Scialpi
- National Institute of Gastroenterology "S. De Bellis" Research Hospital, 70013, Castellana Grotte, Italy
| | - Tannin A Schmidt
- Biomedical Engineering Department, University of Connecticut Health Centre, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Martina Frusciante
- National Institute of Gastroenterology "S. De Bellis" Research Hospital, 70013, Castellana Grotte, Italy
| | - Serena Mancarella
- National Institute of Gastroenterology "S. De Bellis" Research Hospital, 70013, Castellana Grotte, Italy
| | - Luigi Giovanni Lupo
- University of Bari, Department of General Surgery and Liver Transplantation, Policlinico - piazza Giulio Cesare 14, 70125, Bari, Italy
| | - Erica Villa
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Gianluigi Giannelli
- National Institute of Gastroenterology "S. De Bellis" Research Hospital, 70013, Castellana Grotte, Italy
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Mao X, Tey SK, Yeung CLS, Kwong EML, Fung YME, Chung CYS, Mak L, Wong DKH, Yuen M, Ho JCM, Pang H, Wong MP, Leung CO, Lee TKW, Ma V, Cho WC, Cao P, Xu X, Gao Y, Yam JWP. Nidogen 1-Enriched Extracellular Vesicles Facilitate Extrahepatic Metastasis of Liver Cancer by Activating Pulmonary Fibroblasts to Secrete Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor 1. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2020; 7:2002157. [PMID: 33173740 PMCID: PMC7640351 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202002157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
In hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients with extrahepatic metastasis, the lung is the most frequent site of metastasis. However, how the lung microenvironment favors disseminated cells remains unclear. Here, it is found that nidogen 1 (NID1) in metastatic HCC cell-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) promotes pre-metastatic niche formation in the lung by enhancing angiogenesis and pulmonary endothelial permeability to facilitate colonization of tumor cells and extrahepatic metastasis. EV-NID1 also activates fibroblasts, which secrete tumor necrosis factor receptor 1 (TNFR1), facilitate lung colonization of tumor cells, and augment HCC cell growth and motility. Administration of anti-TNFR1 antibody effectively diminishes lung metastasis induced by the metastatic HCC cell-derived EVs in mice. In the clinical perspective, analysis of serum EV-NID1 and TNFR1 in HCC patients reveals their positive correlation and association with tumor stages suggesting the potential of these molecules as noninvasive biomarkers for the early detection of HCC. In conclusion, these results demonstrate the interplay of HCC EVs and activated fibroblasts in pre-metastatic niche formation and how blockage of their functions inhibits distant metastasis to the lungs. This study offers promise for the new direction of HCC treatment by targeting oncogenic EV components and their mediated pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaowen Mao
- Department of Pathology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong
| | - Sze Keong Tey
- Department of Pathology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong
| | - Cherlie Lot Sum Yeung
- Department of Pathology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong
| | - Ernest Man Lok Kwong
- Department of Pathology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong
| | - Yi Man Eva Fung
- Department of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Synthetic ChemistryThe University of Hong KongPokfulamHong Kong
| | - Clive Yik Sham Chung
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong
| | - Lung‐Yi Mak
- Department of Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Liver ResearchThe University of Hong KongHong Kong
| | - Danny Ka Ho Wong
- Department of Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Liver ResearchThe University of Hong KongHong Kong
| | - Man‐Fung Yuen
- Department of Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Liver ResearchThe University of Hong KongHong Kong
| | - James Chung Man Ho
- Department of Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong
| | - Herbert Pang
- School of Public Health, Li Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong
| | - Maria Pik Wong
- Department of Pathology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong
| | - Carmen Oi‐Ning Leung
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical TechnologyThe Hong Kong Polytechnic UniversityKowloonHong Kong
| | - Terence Kin Wah Lee
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical TechnologyThe Hong Kong Polytechnic UniversityKowloonHong Kong
| | - Victor Ma
- Department of Clinical OncologyQueen Elizabeth HospitalKowloonHong Kong
| | | | - Peihua Cao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery II, Zhujiang HospitalSouthern Medical UniversityGuangzhou510280China
- Clinical Research CenterZhujiang HospitalSouthern Medical UniversityGuangzhou510280China
| | - Xiaoping Xu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery II, Zhujiang HospitalSouthern Medical UniversityGuangzhou510280China
| | - Yi Gao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery II, Zhujiang HospitalSouthern Medical UniversityGuangzhou510280China
- Guangdong Provincial Research Center of Artificial Organ and Tissue Engineering, Zhujiang HospitalSouthern Medical UniversityGuangzhou510280China
| | - Judy Wai Ping Yam
- Department of Pathology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineThe University of Hong KongHong Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Liver ResearchThe University of Hong KongHong Kong
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38
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Zhang J, Gu C, Song Q, Zhu M, Xu Y, Xiao M, Zheng W. Identifying cancer-associated fibroblasts as emerging targets for hepatocellular carcinoma. Cell Biosci 2020; 10:127. [PMID: 33292459 PMCID: PMC7603733 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-020-00488-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a complex multicellular functional compartment that includes fibroblasts, myofibroblasts, endothelial cells, immune cells, and extracellular matrix (ECM) elements. The microenvironment provides an optimum condition for the initiation, growth, and dissemination of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). As one of the critical and abundant components in tumor microenvironment, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) have been implicated in the progression of HCC. Through secreting various growth factors and cytokines, CAFs contribute to the ECM remodeling, stem features, angiogenesis, immunosuppression, and vasculogenic mimicry (VM), which reinforce the initiation and development of HCC. In order to restrain the CAFs-initiated HCC progression, current strategies include targeting specific markers, engineering CAFs with tumor-suppressive phenotype, depleting CAFs’ precursors, and repressing the secretions or downstream signaling. In this review, we update the emerging understanding of CAFs in HCC, with particular emphasis on cellular origin, phenotypes, biological functions and targeted strategies. It provides insights into the targeting CAFs for HCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Zhang
- Research Center of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, 20 Xisi Road, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chaoyu Gu
- School of Medicine, Nantong University, 19 Qixiu Road, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qianqian Song
- Department of Radiology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, One Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, NC, 27157, USA
| | - Mengqi Zhu
- Research Center of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, 20 Xisi Road, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yuqing Xu
- Research Center of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, 20 Xisi Road, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Mingbing Xiao
- Research Center of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, 20 Xisi Road, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Wenjie Zheng
- Research Center of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, 20 Xisi Road, Nantong, 226001, Jiangsu, China.
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Cervello M, Emma MR, Augello G, Cusimano A, Giannitrapani L, Soresi M, Akula SM, Abrams SL, Steelman LS, Gulino A, Belmonte B, Montalto G, McCubrey JA. New landscapes and horizons in hepatocellular carcinoma therapy. Aging (Albany NY) 2020; 12:3053-3094. [PMID: 32018226 PMCID: PMC7041742 DOI: 10.18632/aging.102777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/12/2020] [Indexed: 04/12/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is the sixth most frequent form of cancer and leads to the fourth highest number of deaths each year. HCC results from a combination of environmental factors and aging as there are driver mutations at oncogenes which occur during aging. Most of HCCs are diagnosed at advanced stage preventing curative therapies. Treatment in advanced stage is a challenging and pressing problem, and novel and well-tolerated therapies are urgently needed. We will discuss further advances beyond sorafenib that target additional signaling pathways and immune checkpoint proteins. The scenario of possible systemic therapies for patients with advanced HCC has changed dramatically in recent years. Personalized genomics and various other omics approaches may identify actionable biochemical targets, which are activated in individual patients, which may enhance therapeutic outcomes. Further studies are needed to identify predictive biomarkers and aberrantly activated signaling pathways capable of guiding the clinician in choosing the most appropriate therapy for the individual patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melchiorre Cervello
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council (CNR), Palermo, Italy
| | - Maria R. Emma
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council (CNR), Palermo, Italy
| | - Giuseppa Augello
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council (CNR), Palermo, Italy
| | - Antonella Cusimano
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council (CNR), Palermo, Italy
| | - Lydia Giannitrapani
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council (CNR), Palermo, Italy
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences Maternal and Infantile Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Maurizio Soresi
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences Maternal and Infantile Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Shaw M. Akula
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858, USA
| | - Stephen L. Abrams
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858, USA
| | - Linda S. Steelman
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858, USA
| | - Alessandro Gulino
- Tumour Immunology Unit, Human Pathology Section, Department of Health Science, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Beatrice Belmonte
- Tumour Immunology Unit, Human Pathology Section, Department of Health Science, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Montalto
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council (CNR), Palermo, Italy
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences Maternal and Infantile Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - James A. McCubrey
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858, USA
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Li Y, Zhao Z, Liu H, Fetse JP, Jain A, Lin CY, Cheng K. Development of a Tumor-Responsive Nanopolyplex Targeting Pancreatic Cancer Cells and Stroma. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2019; 11:45390-45403. [PMID: 31769963 PMCID: PMC7372733 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.9b15116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Desmoplasia plays a pivotal role in promoting pancreatic cancer progression and is associated with poor clinical outcome. Targeting the desmoplastic tumor microenvironment in combination with chemotherapy is therefore a promising strategy for pancreatic cancer therapy. Here, we report a novel biodegradable copolymer to codeliver LY2109761 (a TGF-β receptor I/II inhibitor) and CPI-613 (a novel chemotherapy agent) to desmoplastic stroma and tumor cells, respectively, in the tumor microenvironment. Hydrophobic CPI-613 is conjugated to the hydrophilic copolymer via a newly designed MMP-2-responsive linker to form a trigger-responsive nanopolyplex. LY2109761 is hydrophobic and encapsulated into the hydrophobic core of the nanopolyplex. The resulting nanopolyplex is modified with a plectin-1-targeting peptide to enhance the accumulation of the nanopolyplex in pancreatic tumors. The nanopolyplex aims to normalize the stroma by blocking the interaction between tumor cells and pancreatic stellate cells to inhibit the activation of pancreatic stellate cells and subsequently reduce the dense extracellular matrix. Normalized stroma increases the penetration of the nanopolyplex into the tumor. The nanopolyplex shows enhanced accumulation in xenograft pancreatic tumors in a biodistribution study. Moreover, the targeted nanopolyplex markedly inhibits tumor growth in an orthotopic pancreatic cancer mouse model by dual-targeting tumor cells and stroma. Overall, the multifunctional nanopolyplex is a promising platform for pancreatic cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Kun Cheng
- Corresponding author: Kun Cheng, Ph.D., University of Missouri Curators’ Distinguished Professor, Division of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, University of Missouri-Kansas City, 2464 Charlotte Street, Kansas City, MO 64108, Phone: (816) 235-2425, Fax: (816) 235-5779,
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Elsayed MMA, Mostafa ME, Alaaeldin E, Sarhan HAA, Shaykoon MS, Allam S, Ahmed ARH, Elsadek BEM. Design And Characterisation Of Novel Sorafenib-Loaded Carbon Nanotubes With Distinct Tumour-Suppressive Activity In Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Int J Nanomedicine 2019; 14:8445-8467. [PMID: 31754301 PMCID: PMC6825507 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s223920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2019] [Accepted: 10/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Over the past 30 years, no consistent survival benefits have been recorded for anticancer agents of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), except for the multikinase inhibitor sorafenib (Nexavar®), which clinically achieves only ~3 months overall survival benefit. This modest benefit is attributed to limited aqueous solubility, slow dissolution rate and, consequently, limited absorption from the gastrointestinal tract. Thus, novel formulation modalities are in demand to improve the bioavailability of the drug to attack HCC in a more efficient manner. In the current study, we aimed to design a novel sorafenib-loaded carbon nanotubes (CNTs) formula that is able to improve the therapeutic efficacy of carried cargo against HCC and subsequently investigate the antitumour activity of this formula. MATERIALS AND METHODS Sorafenib was loaded on functionalized CNTs through physical adsorption, and an alginate-based method was subsequently applied to microcapsulate the drug-loaded CNTs (CNTs-SFN). The therapeutic efficacy of the new formula was estimated and compared to that of conventional sorafenib, both in vitro (against HepG2 cells) and in vivo (in a DENA-induced HCC rat model). RESULTS The in vitro MTT anti-proliferative assay revealed that the drug-loaded CNTs formula was at least two-fold more cytotoxic towards HepG2 cells than was sorafenib itself. Moreover, the in vivo animal experiments proved that our innovative formula was superior to conventional sorafenib at all assessed end points. Circulating AFP-L3% was significantly decreased in the CNTs-SFN-MCs-treated group (14.0%) in comparison to that of the DENA (40.3%) and sorafenib (38.8%) groups. This superiority was further confirmed by Western blot analysis and immunofluorescence assessment of some HCC-relevant biomarkers. CONCLUSION Our results firmly suggest the distinctive cancer-suppressive nature of CNTs-SFN-MCs, both against HepG2 cells in vitro and in a DENA-induced HCC rat model in vivo, with a preferential superiority over conventional sorafenib.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud MA Elsayed
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt
| | - Mahmoud E Mostafa
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Minia University, Minia, Egypt
| | - Eman Alaaeldin
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Minia University, Minia, Egypt
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Deraya University, Minia, Egypt
| | - Hatem AA Sarhan
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Minia University, Minia, Egypt
| | - Montaser ShA Shaykoon
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Assiut Branch, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Shady Allam
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh, Egypt
| | - Ahmed RH Ahmed
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt
| | - Bakheet EM Elsadek
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Assiut Branch, Assiut, Egypt
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Gao L, Yang L, Wang L, Geng Z, Wei Y, Gourley G, Zhang J. Relationship Between the Efficacy of Cardiac Cell Therapy and the Inhibition of Differentiation of Human iPSC-Derived Nonmyocyte Cardiac Cells Into Myofibroblast-Like Cells. Circ Res 2019; 123:1313-1325. [PMID: 30566050 DOI: 10.1161/circresaha.118.313094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE Myofibroblasts are believed to evolve from precursor cells; however, whether noncardiomyocyte cardiac cells (NMCCs; ie, endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, pericytes, and fibroblasts) that have been derived from human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) can transdifferentiate into myofibroblast-like cells, and if so, whether this process reduces the efficacy of hiPSC-NMCC therapy, is unknown. OBJECTIVE To determine whether hiPSC-NMCCs can differentiate to myofibroblast-like cells and whether limiting the transdifferentiation of hiPSC-NMCCs can improve their effectiveness for myocardial repair. METHODS AND RESULTS When endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, pericytes, and fibroblasts that had been generated from hiPSCs were cultured with TGF-β (transforming growth factor-β), the expression of myofibroblast markers increased, whereas endothelial cell, smooth muscle cell, pericyte, and fibroblast marker expression declined. TGF-β-associated myofibroblast differentiation was accompanied by increases in the signaling activity of Smad, Snail, and mTOR (mammalian target of rapamycin). However, measures of pathway activation, proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and protein expression in hiPSC-endothelial cell-derived, smooth muscle cell-derived, pericyte-derived, and fibroblast-derived myofibroblast-like cells differed. Furthermore, when hiPSC-NMCCs were transplanted into the hearts of mice after myocardial infarction, ≈21% to 35% of the transplanted hiPSC-NMCCs expressed myofibroblast markers 1 week later, compared with <7% of transplanted cells ( P<0.01, each cell type) in animals that were treated with both hiPSC-NMCCs and the TGF-β inhibitor galunisertib. Galunisertib coadministration was also associated with significant improvements in fibrotic area, left ventricular dilatation, vascular density, and cardiac function. CONCLUSIONS hiPSC-NMCCs differentiate into myofibroblast-like cells when cultured with TGF-β or when transplanted into infarcted mouse hearts, and the phenotypes of the myofibroblast-like cells can differ depending on the lineage of origin. TGF-β inhibition significantly improved the efficacy of transplanted hiPSC-NMCCs for cardiac repair, perhaps by limiting the differentiation of hiPSC-NMCCs into myofibroblast-like cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Gao
- From the Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Alabama at Birmingham (L.G., L.W., Y.W., J.Z.)
| | - Libang Yang
- Department of Medicine (L.Y., Z.G.), University of Minnesota, Minneapolis
| | - Lu Wang
- From the Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Alabama at Birmingham (L.G., L.W., Y.W., J.Z.)
| | - Zhaohui Geng
- Department of Medicine (L.Y., Z.G.), University of Minnesota, Minneapolis
| | - Yuhua Wei
- From the Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Alabama at Birmingham (L.G., L.W., Y.W., J.Z.)
| | - Glenn Gourley
- Department of Pediatrics (G.G.), University of Minnesota, Minneapolis (G.G.)
| | - Jianyi Zhang
- From the Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Alabama at Birmingham (L.G., L.W., Y.W., J.Z.)
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Yin Z, Dong C, Jiang K, Xu Z, Li R, Guo K, Shao S, Wang L. Heterogeneity of cancer-associated fibroblasts and roles in the progression, prognosis, and therapy of hepatocellular carcinoma. J Hematol Oncol 2019; 12:101. [PMID: 31547836 PMCID: PMC6757399 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-019-0782-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2019] [Accepted: 08/23/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a lethal disease, and recurrence and metastasis are the major causes of death in HCC patients. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), a major stromal cell type in the HCC microenvironment, promote HCC progression, and have gradually become a hot research topic in HCC-targeted therapy. This review comprehensively describes and discusses the heterogeneous tissue distribution, cellular origin, phenotype, and biological functions of HCC-associated fibroblasts. Furthermore, the possible use of CAFs for predicting HCC prognosis and in targeted therapeutic strategies is discussed, highlighting the critical roles of CAFs in HCC progression, diagnosis, and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeli Yin
- Engineering Research Center for New Materials and Precision Treatment Technology of Malignant Tumors Therapy, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116027, Liaoning, China
- Engineering Technology Research Center for Translational Medicine, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116027, Liaoning, China
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, 467 Zhongshan Road, Dalian, 116027, Liaoning, China
| | - Chengyong Dong
- Engineering Research Center for New Materials and Precision Treatment Technology of Malignant Tumors Therapy, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116027, Liaoning, China
- Engineering Technology Research Center for Translational Medicine, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116027, Liaoning, China
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, 467 Zhongshan Road, Dalian, 116027, Liaoning, China
| | - Keqiu Jiang
- Engineering Research Center for New Materials and Precision Treatment Technology of Malignant Tumors Therapy, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116027, Liaoning, China
- Engineering Technology Research Center for Translational Medicine, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116027, Liaoning, China
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, 467 Zhongshan Road, Dalian, 116027, Liaoning, China
| | - Zhe Xu
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, 467 Zhongshan Road, Dalian, 116027, Liaoning, China
| | - Rui Li
- Engineering Research Center for New Materials and Precision Treatment Technology of Malignant Tumors Therapy, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116027, Liaoning, China
- Engineering Technology Research Center for Translational Medicine, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116027, Liaoning, China
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, 467 Zhongshan Road, Dalian, 116027, Liaoning, China
| | - Kun Guo
- Engineering Research Center for New Materials and Precision Treatment Technology of Malignant Tumors Therapy, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116027, Liaoning, China.
- Department of Pathology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, 467 Zhongshan Road, Dalian, 116027, Liaoning, China.
| | - Shujuan Shao
- Key Laboratory of Proteomics, Dalian Medical University, 9 West Lvshun South Road, Lvshunkou District, Dalian, 116027, Liaoning, China.
| | - Liming Wang
- Engineering Research Center for New Materials and Precision Treatment Technology of Malignant Tumors Therapy, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116027, Liaoning, China.
- Engineering Technology Research Center for Translational Medicine, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116027, Liaoning, China.
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, 467 Zhongshan Road, Dalian, 116027, Liaoning, China.
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Dituri F, Cossu C, Mancarella S, Giannelli G. The Interactivity between TGFβ and BMP Signaling in Organogenesis, Fibrosis, and Cancer. Cells 2019; 8:E1130. [PMID: 31547567 PMCID: PMC6829314 DOI: 10.3390/cells8101130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2019] [Revised: 09/16/2019] [Accepted: 09/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The Transforming Growth Factor beta (TGFβ) and Bone Morphogenic Protein (BMP) pathways intersect at multiple signaling hubs and cooperatively or counteractively participate to bring about cellular processes which are critical not only for tissue morphogenesis and organogenesis during development, but also for adult tissue homeostasis. The proper functioning of the TGFβ/BMP pathway depends on its communication with other signaling pathways and any deregulation leads to developmental defects or diseases, including fibrosis and cancer. In this review we explore the cellular and physio-pathological contexts in which the synergism or antagonism between the TGFβ and BMP pathways are crucial determinants for the normal developmental processes, as well as the progression of fibrosis and malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Dituri
- National Institute of Gastroenterology "S. De Bellis", Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy.
| | - Carla Cossu
- National Institute of Gastroenterology "S. De Bellis", Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy.
| | - Serena Mancarella
- National Institute of Gastroenterology "S. De Bellis", Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy.
| | - Gianluigi Giannelli
- National Institute of Gastroenterology "S. De Bellis", Research Hospital, Castellana Grotte, 70013 Bari, Italy.
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45
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Shang W, Adzika GK, Li Y, Huang Q, Ding N, Chinembiri B, Rashid MSI, Machuki JO. Molecular mechanisms of circular RNAs, transforming growth factor-β, and long noncoding RNAs in hepatocellular carcinoma. Cancer Med 2019; 8:6684-6699. [PMID: 31523930 PMCID: PMC6826001 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.2553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2019] [Revised: 08/23/2019] [Accepted: 08/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
At the heart of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) lies disruption of signaling pathways at the level of molecules, genes, and cells. Non‐coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have been implicated in the disease progression of HCC. For instance, dysregulated expression of circular RNAs (circRNAs) has been observed in patients with HCC. As such, these RNAs are potential therapeutic targets and diagnostic markers for HCC. Long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs), a type of ncRNA, have also been recognized to participate in the initiation and progression of HCC. Transforming growth factor‐beta (TGF‐β) is another element which is now recognized to play crucial roles in HCC. It has been implicated in many biological processes such as survival, immune surveillance, and cell proliferation. In HCC, TGF‐β promotes disease progression by two mechanisms: an intrinsic signaling pathway and the extrinsic pathway. Through these pathways, it modulates various microenvironment factors such as inflammatory mediators and fibroblasts. An interesting yet‐to‐be resolved concept is whether the HCC‐promoting role of TGF‐β pathways is limited to a subset of HCC patients or it is involved in the whole process of HCC development. This review summarizes recent advancements to highlight the roles of circRNAs, lncRNAs, and TGF‐β in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenkang Shang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | | | - Yujie Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First People's Hospital of Kunshan, Kunshan, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qike Huang
- The Third Department of Hepatic Surgery, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ningding Ding
- Department of Neurophysiology and Location Diagnosis, Guangdong 39 Brain Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Bianca Chinembiri
- Physiology Department, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
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46
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CCN2-MAPK-Id-1 loop feedback amplification is involved in maintaining stemness in oxaliplatin-resistant hepatocellular carcinoma. Hepatol Int 2019; 13:440-453. [PMID: 31250351 PMCID: PMC6661033 DOI: 10.1007/s12072-019-09960-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Background Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the second leading cause of cancer death worldwide. Chemotherapy is an alternative treatment for advanced HCCs, but chemo-resistance prevents cancer therapies from achieving stable and complete responses. Understanding the underlying mechanisms in chemo-resistance is critical to improve the efficacy of HCC. Methods The expression levels of Id-1 and CCN2 were detected in large cohorts of HCCs, and functional analyses of Id-1 and CCN2 were performed both in vitro and in vivo. cDNA microarrays were performed to evaluate the alterations of expression profiling of HCC cells with overexpression of CCN2. Finally, the role of downstream signaling of MAPK/Id-1 signaling pathway in oxaliplatin resistance were also explored. Results The increased expression of Id-1 and CCN2 were closely related to oxaliplatin resistance in HCC. Upregulation of CCN2 and Id-1 was independently associated with shorter survival and increased recurrence in HCC patients, and significantly enhanced oxaliplatin resistance and promoted lung metastasis in vivo, whereas knock-down of their expression significantly reversed the chemo-resistance and inhibited HCC cell stemness. cDNA microarrays and PCR revealed that Id-1 and MAPK pathway were the downstream signaling of CCN2. CCN2 significantly enhanced oxaliplatin resistance by activating the MAPK/Id-1 signaling pathway, and Id-1 could upregulate CCN2 in a positive feedback manner. Conclusions CCN2/MAPK/Id-1 loop feedback amplification is involved in oxaliplatin resistance, and the combination of oxaliplatin with inhibitor of CCN2 or MAPK signaling could provide a promising approach to ameliorating oxaliplatin resistance in HCC. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1007/s12072-019-09960-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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47
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Lan Y, Zhang D, Xu C, Hance KW, Marelli B, Qi J, Yu H, Qin G, Sircar A, Hernández VM, Jenkins MH, Fontana RE, Deshpande A, Locke G, Sabzevari H, Radvanyi L, Lo KM. Enhanced preclinical antitumor activity of M7824, a bifunctional fusion protein simultaneously targeting PD-L1 and TGF-β. Sci Transl Med 2019; 10:10/424/eaan5488. [PMID: 29343622 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.aan5488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 364] [Impact Index Per Article: 72.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2017] [Revised: 10/04/2017] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Antibodies targeting immune checkpoints are emerging as potent and viable cancer therapies, but not all patients respond to these as single agents. Concurrently targeting additional immunosuppressive pathways is a promising approach to enhance immune checkpoint blockade, and bifunctional molecules designed to target two pathways simultaneously may provide a strategic advantage over the combination of two single agents. M7824 (MSB0011359C) is a bifunctional fusion protein composed of a monoclonal antibody against programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) fused to the extracellular domain of human transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) receptor II, which functions as a "trap" for all three TGF-β isoforms. We demonstrate that M7824 efficiently, specifically, and simultaneously binds PD-L1 and TGF-β. In syngeneic mouse models, M7824 suppressed tumor growth and metastasis more effectively than treatment with either an anti-PD-L1 antibody or TGF-β trap alone; furthermore, M7824 extended survival and conferred long-term protective antitumor immunity. Mechanistically, the dual anti-immunosuppressive function of M7824 resulted in activation of both the innate and adaptive immune systems, which contributed to M7824's antitumor activity. Finally, M7824 was an effective combination partner for radiotherapy or chemotherapy in mouse models. Collectively, our preclinical data demonstrate that simultaneous blockade of the PD-L1 and TGF-β pathways by M7824 elicits potent and superior antitumor activity relative to monotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Lan
- EMD Serono Research and Development Institute Inc., Billerica, MA 01821, USA.
| | - Dong Zhang
- EMD Serono Research and Development Institute Inc., Billerica, MA 01821, USA
| | - Chunxiao Xu
- EMD Serono Research and Development Institute Inc., Billerica, MA 01821, USA
| | - Kenneth W Hance
- EMD Serono Research and Development Institute Inc., Billerica, MA 01821, USA
| | - Bo Marelli
- EMD Serono Research and Development Institute Inc., Billerica, MA 01821, USA
| | - Jin Qi
- EMD Serono Research and Development Institute Inc., Billerica, MA 01821, USA
| | - Huakui Yu
- EMD Serono Research and Development Institute Inc., Billerica, MA 01821, USA
| | - Guozhong Qin
- EMD Serono Research and Development Institute Inc., Billerica, MA 01821, USA
| | - Aroop Sircar
- EMD Serono Research and Development Institute Inc., Billerica, MA 01821, USA
| | - Vivian M Hernández
- EMD Serono Research and Development Institute Inc., Billerica, MA 01821, USA
| | - Molly H Jenkins
- EMD Serono Research and Development Institute Inc., Billerica, MA 01821, USA
| | - Rachel E Fontana
- EMD Serono Research and Development Institute Inc., Billerica, MA 01821, USA
| | - Amit Deshpande
- EMD Serono Research and Development Institute Inc., Billerica, MA 01821, USA
| | - George Locke
- EMD Serono Research and Development Institute Inc., Billerica, MA 01821, USA
| | - Helen Sabzevari
- EMD Serono Research and Development Institute Inc., Billerica, MA 01821, USA
| | - Laszlo Radvanyi
- EMD Serono Research and Development Institute Inc., Billerica, MA 01821, USA
| | - Kin-Ming Lo
- EMD Serono Research and Development Institute Inc., Billerica, MA 01821, USA.
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Cui X, Shang S, Lv X, Zhao J, Qi Y, Liu Z. Perspectives of small molecule inhibitors of activin receptor‑like kinase in anti‑tumor treatment and stem cell differentiation (Review). Mol Med Rep 2019; 19:5053-5062. [PMID: 31059090 PMCID: PMC6522871 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2019.10209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2018] [Accepted: 03/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Activin receptor‑like kinases (ALKs), members of the type I activin receptor family, belong to the serine/threonine kinase receptors of the transforming growth factor‑β (TGF‑β) superfamily. ALKs mediate the roles of activin/TGF‑β in a wide variety of physiological and pathological processes, ranging from cell differentiation and proliferation to apoptosis. For example, the activities of ALKs are associated with an advanced tumor stage in prostate cancer and the chondrogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells. Therefore, potent and selective small molecule inhibitors of ALKs would not only aid in investigating the function of activin/TGF‑β, but also in developing treatments for these diseases via the disruption of activin/TGF‑β. In recent studies, several ALK inhibitors, including LY‑2157299, SB‑431542 and A‑83‑01, have been identified and have been confirmed to affect stem cell differentiation and tumor progression in animal models. This review discusses the therapeutic perspective of small molecule inhibitors of ALKs as drug targets in tumor and stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueling Cui
- Department of Genetics, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Shumi Shang
- Department of Genetics, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Xinran Lv
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Jing Zhao
- Department of Genetics, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Yan Qi
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Zhonghui Liu
- Department of Immunology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
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Recent Insight into the Role of Fibrosis in Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis-Related Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20071745. [PMID: 30970564 PMCID: PMC6480228 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20071745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2019] [Revised: 03/20/2019] [Accepted: 03/23/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most widespread tumors in the world and its prognosis is poor because of lack of effective treatments. Epidemiological studies show that non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and advanced fibrosis represent a relevant risk factors to the HCC development. However little is known of pathophysiological mechanisms linking liver fibrogenesis to HCC in NASH. Recent advances in scientific research allowed to discover some mechanisms that may represent potential therapeutic targets. These include the integrin signaling, hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activation, Hedgehog signaling and alteration of immune system. In the near future, knowledge of fibrosis-dependent carcinogenic mechanisms, will help optimize antifibrotic therapies as an approach to prevent and treat HCC in patients with NASH and advanced fibrosis.
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50
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Huang Q, Li J, Zheng J, Wei A. The Carcinogenic Role of the Notch Signaling Pathway in the Development of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. J Cancer 2019; 10:1570-1579. [PMID: 31031867 PMCID: PMC6485212 DOI: 10.7150/jca.26847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2018] [Accepted: 01/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The Notch signaling pathway, known to be a highly conserved signaling pathway in embryonic development and adult tissue homeostasis, participates in cell fate decisions that include cellular differentiation, cell survival and cell death. However, other studies have shown that aberrant in Notch signaling is pro-tumorigenic, particularly in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). HCC is one of the most common malignant tumors in the world and has a high mortality rate. Growing evidence supports that Notch signaling plays a critical role in the development of HCC by regulating the tumor microenvironment, tumorigenesis, progression, angiogenesis, invasion and metastasis. Accordingly, overexpression of Notch is closely associated with poor prognosis in HCC. In this review, we focus on the pro-tumorigenic role of Notch signaling in HCC, summarize the current knowledge of Notch signaling and its role in HCC development, and outline the therapeutic potential of targeting Notch signaling in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinfeng Huang
- Graduate School, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha 410208, Hunan, China
| | - Junhong Li
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning 530023, Guangxi, China
| | - Jinghui Zheng
- Discipline Construction Office, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning 530200, Guangxi, China
| | - Ailing Wei
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning 530023, Guangxi, China
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