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Cigliano A, Liao W, Deiana GA, Rizzo D, Chen X, Calvisi DF. Preclinical Models of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Current Utility, Limitations, and Challenges. Biomedicines 2024; 12:1624. [PMID: 39062197 PMCID: PMC11274649 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12071624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2024] [Revised: 07/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the predominant primary liver tumor, remains one of the most lethal cancers worldwide, despite the advances in therapy in recent years. In addition to the traditional chemically and dietary-induced HCC models, a broad spectrum of novel preclinical tools have been generated following the advent of transgenic, transposon, organoid, and in silico technologies to overcome this gloomy scenario. These models have become rapidly robust preclinical instruments to unravel the molecular pathogenesis of liver cancer and establish new therapeutic approaches against this deadly disease. The present review article aims to summarize and discuss the commonly used preclinical models for HCC, evaluating their strengths and weaknesses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Cigliano
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (A.C.); (G.A.D.); (D.R.)
| | - Weiting Liao
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences and Liver Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; (W.L.); (X.C.)
- Cancer Biology Program, University of Hawaii Cancer Center, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA
| | - Giovanni A. Deiana
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (A.C.); (G.A.D.); (D.R.)
| | - Davide Rizzo
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (A.C.); (G.A.D.); (D.R.)
| | - Xin Chen
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences and Liver Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA; (W.L.); (X.C.)
- Cancer Biology Program, University of Hawaii Cancer Center, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA
| | - Diego F. Calvisi
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Pharmacy, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (A.C.); (G.A.D.); (D.R.)
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Younis MA, Harashima H. Understanding Gene Involvement in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Implications for Gene Therapy and Personalized Medicine. Pharmgenomics Pers Med 2024; 17:193-213. [PMID: 38737776 PMCID: PMC11088404 DOI: 10.2147/pgpm.s431346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the dominant type of liver cancers and is one of the deadliest health threats globally. The conventional therapeutic options for HCC are hampered by low efficiency and intolerable side effects. Gene therapy, however, now offers hope for the treatment of many disorders previously considered incurable, and gene therapy is beginning to address many of the shortcomings of conventional therapies. Herein, we summarize the involvement of genes in the pathogenesis and prognosis of HCC, with a special focus on dysregulated signaling pathways, genes involved in immune evasion, and non-coding RNAs as novel two-edged players, which collectively offer potential targets for the gene therapy of HCC. Herein, the opportunities and challenges of HCC gene therapy are discussed. These include innovative therapies such as genome editing and cell therapies. Moreover, advanced gene delivery technologies that recruit nanomedicines for use in gene therapy for HCC are highlighted. Finally, suggestions are offered for improved clinical translation and future directions in this area of endeavor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud A Younis
- Laboratory of Innovative Nanomedicine, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, 060-0812, Japan
- Department of Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Assiut University, Assiut, 71526, Egypt
| | - Hideyoshi Harashima
- Laboratory of Innovative Nanomedicine, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, 060-0812, Japan
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Santoro A, Assenat E, Yau T, Delord JP, Maur M, Knox J, Cattan S, Lee KH, Del Conte G, Springfeld C, Leo E, Xyrafas A, Fairchild L, Mardjuadi F, Chan SL. A phase Ib/II trial of capmatinib plus spartalizumab vs. spartalizumab alone in patients with pretreated hepatocellular carcinoma. JHEP Rep 2024; 6:101021. [PMID: 38617599 PMCID: PMC11009449 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2024.101021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Background & aims This phase Ib/II trial evaluated the safety and efficacy of capmatinib in combination with spartalizumab or spartalizumab alone in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Methods Eligible patients who had progressed or were intolerant to sorafenib received escalating doses of capmatinib 200 mg, 300 mg, and 400 mg twice a day (bid) plus spartalizumab 300 mg every 3 weeks (q3w) in the phase Ib study. Once the recommended phase II dose (RP2D) was determined, the phase II study commenced with randomised 1:1 treatment with either capmatinib + spartalizumab (n = 32) or spartalizumab alone (n = 30). Primary endpoints were safety and tolerability (phase Ib) and investigator-assessed overall response rate per RECIST v1.1 for combination vs. single-agent arms using a Bayesian logistic regression model (phase II). Results In phase Ib, the RP2D for capmatinib in combination with spartalizumab was determined to be 400 mg bid. Dose-limiting toxicity consisting of grade 3 diarrhoea was reported in one patient at the capmatinib 400 mg bid + spartalizumab 300 mg q3w dose level. The primary endpoint in the phase II study was not met. The observed overall response rate in the capmatinib + spartalizumab arm was 9.4% vs. 10% in the spartalizumab arm. The most common any-grade treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs, ≥20%) were nausea (37.5%), asthenia and vomiting (28.1% each), diarrhoea, pyrexia, and decreased appetite (25.0% each) in the combination arm; TRAEs ≥10% were pruritus (23.3%), and rash (10.0%) in the spartalizumab-alone arm. Conclusion Capmatinib at 400 mg bid plus spartalizumab 300 mg q3w was established as the RP2D, with manageable toxicities and no significant safety signals, but the combination did not show superior clinical activity compared with spartalizumab single-agent treatment in patients with advanced HCC who had previously been treated with sorafenib. Impact and implications Simultaneous targeting of MET and programmed cell death protein 1 may provide synergistic clinical benefit in patients with advanced HCC. This is the first trial to report a combination of capmatinib (MET inhibitor) and spartalizumab (programmed cell death protein 1 inhibitor) as second-line treatment after sorafenib for advanced HCC. The combination did not show superior clinical activity compared with spartalizumab single-agent treatment in patients with advanced HCC who had previously been treated with sorafenib. The results indicate that there is a clear need to identify a reliable predictive marker of response for HCC and to identify patients with HCC that would benefit from the combination of checkpoint inhibitor +/- targeted therapy. Clinical trial number NCT02795429.
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Affiliation(s)
- Armando Santoro
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini 4, Pieve Emanuele – Milan, Italy
- IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Humanitas Cancer Center, Via Manzoni 56, Rozzano, Milan, Italy
| | - Eric Assenat
- Hopital Arnaud de Villeneuve Montpellier Cedex 5, Herault, France
| | - Thomas Yau
- Department of Medicine, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | | | - Michela Maur
- Oncology Unit, AOU Policlinico Modena and University Study of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | | | | | - Kyung-Hun Lee
- Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Gianluca Del Conte
- Department of Oncology, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Christoph Springfeld
- Nat. Centrum f. Tumorerkrankungen, Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Elisa Leo
- Novartis Pharma AG, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Lauren Fairchild
- Oncology Data Science, Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Cambridge, USA
| | - Feby Mardjuadi
- Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research Co., Ltd., Shanghai, China
| | - Stephen L. Chan
- State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Department of Clinical Oncology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Pessino G, Scotti C, Maggi M, Immuno-Hub Consortium. Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Old and Emerging Therapeutic Targets. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:901. [PMID: 38473265 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16050901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer, predominantly hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), globally ranks sixth in incidence and third in cancer-related deaths. HCC risk factors include non-viral hepatitis, alcohol abuse, environmental exposures, and genetic factors. No specific genetic alterations are unequivocally linked to HCC tumorigenesis. Current standard therapies include surgical options, systemic chemotherapy, and kinase inhibitors, like sorafenib and regorafenib. Immunotherapy, targeting immune checkpoints, represents a promising avenue. FDA-approved checkpoint inhibitors, such as atezolizumab and pembrolizumab, show efficacy, and combination therapies enhance clinical responses. Despite this, the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains a challenge, as the complex tumor ecosystem and the immunosuppressive microenvironment associated with it hamper the efficacy of the available therapeutic approaches. This review explores current and advanced approaches to treat HCC, considering both known and new potential targets, especially derived from proteomic analysis, which is today considered as the most promising approach. Exploring novel strategies, this review discusses antibody drug conjugates (ADCs), chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy (CAR-T), and engineered antibodies. It then reports a systematic analysis of the main ligand/receptor pairs and molecular pathways reported to be overexpressed in tumor cells, highlighting their potential and limitations. Finally, it discusses TGFβ, one of the most promising targets of the HCC microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greta Pessino
- Unit of Immunology and General Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Claudia Scotti
- Unit of Immunology and General Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Maristella Maggi
- Unit of Immunology and General Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Immuno-Hub Consortium
- Unit of Immunology and General Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
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Cuesta ÁM, Palao N, Bragado P, Gutierrez-Uzquiza A, Herrera B, Sánchez A, Porras A. New and Old Key Players in Liver Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:17152. [PMID: 38138981 PMCID: PMC10742790 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242417152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer represents a major health problem worldwide with growing incidence and high mortality, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) being the most frequent. Hepatocytes are likely the cellular origin of most HCCs through the accumulation of genetic alterations, although hepatic progenitor cells (HPCs) might also be candidates in specific cases, as discussed here. HCC usually develops in a context of chronic inflammation, fibrosis, and cirrhosis, although the role of fibrosis is controversial. The interplay between hepatocytes, immune cells and hepatic stellate cells is a key issue. This review summarizes critical aspects of the liver tumor microenvironment paying special attention to platelets as new key players, which exert both pro- and anti-tumor effects, determined by specific contexts and a tight regulation of platelet signaling. Additionally, the relevance of specific signaling pathways, mainly HGF/MET, EGFR and TGF-β is discussed. HGF and TGF-β are produced by different liver cells and platelets and regulate not only tumor cell fate but also HPCs, inflammation and fibrosis, these being key players in these processes. The role of C3G/RAPGEF1, required for the proper function of HGF/MET signaling in HCC and HPCs, is highlighted, due to its ability to promote HCC growth and, regulate HPC fate and platelet-mediated actions on liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ángel M. Cuesta
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), 28040 Madrid, Spain; (Á.M.C.); (N.P.); (P.B.); (A.G.-U.); (B.H.); (A.S.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Nerea Palao
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), 28040 Madrid, Spain; (Á.M.C.); (N.P.); (P.B.); (A.G.-U.); (B.H.); (A.S.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Paloma Bragado
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), 28040 Madrid, Spain; (Á.M.C.); (N.P.); (P.B.); (A.G.-U.); (B.H.); (A.S.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Alvaro Gutierrez-Uzquiza
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), 28040 Madrid, Spain; (Á.M.C.); (N.P.); (P.B.); (A.G.-U.); (B.H.); (A.S.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Blanca Herrera
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), 28040 Madrid, Spain; (Á.M.C.); (N.P.); (P.B.); (A.G.-U.); (B.H.); (A.S.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD-ISCIII), 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Aránzazu Sánchez
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), 28040 Madrid, Spain; (Á.M.C.); (N.P.); (P.B.); (A.G.-U.); (B.H.); (A.S.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD-ISCIII), 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Almudena Porras
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), 28040 Madrid, Spain; (Á.M.C.); (N.P.); (P.B.); (A.G.-U.); (B.H.); (A.S.)
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
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Sun Z, Gu C, Wang X, Shang A, Quan W, Wu J, Ji P, Yao Y, Liu W, Li D. A novel bivalent anti-c-MET/PD-1 bispecific antibody exhibits potent cytotoxicity against c-MET/PD-L1-positive colorectal cancer. Invest New Drugs 2023; 41:737-750. [PMID: 37646958 DOI: 10.1007/s10637-023-01381-4] [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: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
Previously, we generated a novel bispecific antibody (BsAb) simultaneously targeting both c-MET and PD-1 (PDCD1), which can bridge T cells and c-MET positive tumor cells. However, the specific mechanisms and antitumor activities of the BsAb against c-MET/PD-L1 (CD274) positive colorectal cancer (CRC) is not completely understood. In this study, in addition to the tumor intrinsic mechanism investigation with molecular biology assay in vitro, a humanized mouse model was used to evaluate antitumor activity of the BsAb in vivo. The BsAb could inhibit c-MET/PD-L1+ CRC cell migration and show strong antitumor activity against HCT116 tumors in mice, potentially by inducing the degradation of c-MET protein in a dose and time-dependent manner. The BsAb could suppress the phosphorylation of c-MET downstream proteins GRB2-associated-binding protein 1 (Gab1) and focal adhesion kinase (FAK). Considering the tumor extrinsic mechanism, the BsAb may promote phagocytosis of macrophage. Furthermore, the level of plasma exosomal-c-MET/PD-L1 is able to distinguish CRC patients from healthy controls. In summary, the BsAb exhibited potent anti-tumor activities by two distinguished mechanisms: inhibition of c-MET signal transduction and promotion of macrophage-mediated phagocytosis. Our BsAb may provide a novel therapeutic agent for patients with c-MET/PD-L1+ CRC, and the status of exosomal-c-MET/PD-L1 can serve as a biomarker to predict responsiveness to treatment of our BsAb.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z Sun
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200065, China
| | - C Gu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200065, China
| | - X Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Putuo People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200065, China
| | - A Shang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200065, China
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Second People's Hospital of Lianyungang, Lianyungang, 222006, China
| | - W Quan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200065, China
| | - J Wu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200065, China
| | - P Ji
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200065, China
| | - Y Yao
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200065, China
| | - W Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200065, China.
| | - D Li
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200065, China.
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Gerardo-Ramírez M, Giam V, Becker D, Groth M, Hartmann N, Morrison H, May-Simera HL, Radsak MP, Marquardt JU, Galle PR, Herrlich P, Straub BK, Hartmann M. Deletion of Cd44 Inhibits Metastasis Formation of Liver Cancer in Nf2-Mutant Mice. Cells 2023; 12:cells12091257. [PMID: 37174657 PMCID: PMC10177437 DOI: 10.3390/cells12091257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Primary liver cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. An increasing body of evidence suggests that the Hippo tumor suppressor pathway plays a critical role in restricting cell proliferation and determining cell fate during physiological and pathological processes in the liver. Merlin (Moesin-Ezrin-Radixin-like protein) encoded by the NF2 (neurofibromatosis type 2) gene is an upstream regulator of the Hippo signaling pathway. Targeting of Merlin to the plasma membrane seems to be crucial for its major tumor-suppressive functions; this is facilitated by interactions with membrane-associated proteins, including CD44 (cluster of differentiation 44). Mutations within the CD44-binding domain of Merlin have been reported in many human cancers. This study evaluated the relative contribution of CD44- and Merlin-dependent processes to the development and progression of liver tumors. To this end, mice with a liver-specific deletion of the Nf2 gene were crossed with Cd44-knockout mice and subjected to extensive histological, biochemical and molecular analyses. In addition, cells were isolated from mutant livers and analyzed by in vitro assays. Deletion of Nf2 in the liver led to substantial liver enlargement and generation of hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs), intrahepatic cholangiocarcinomas (iCCAs), as well as mixed hepatocellular cholangiocarcinomas. Whilst deletion of Cd44 had no influence on liver size or primary liver tumor development, it significantly inhibited metastasis formation in Nf2-mutant mice. CD44 upregulates expression of integrin β2 and promotes transendothelial migration of liver cancer cells, which may facilitate metastatic spreading. Overall, our results suggest that CD44 may be a promising target for intervening with metastatic spreading of liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monserrat Gerardo-Ramírez
- Department of Medicine I, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Vanessa Giam
- Department of Medicine I, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Diana Becker
- Department of Medicine I, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Marco Groth
- Leibniz Institute on Aging-Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI), 07745 Jena, Germany
| | - Nils Hartmann
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Helen Morrison
- Leibniz Institute on Aging-Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI), 07745 Jena, Germany
- Faculty of Biological Sciences, Friedrich-Schiller University, 07745 Jena, Germany
| | - Helen L May-Simera
- Cilia Cell Biology, Institute of Molecular Physiology, Johannes Gutenberg University, 55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Markus P Radsak
- Department of Medicine III, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Jens U Marquardt
- Department of Medicine I, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Lübeck, 23558 Lübeck, Germany
| | - Peter R Galle
- Department of Medicine I, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Peter Herrlich
- Leibniz Institute on Aging-Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI), 07745 Jena, Germany
| | - Beate K Straub
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Monika Hartmann
- Department of Medicine I, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University, 55131 Mainz, Germany
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Ma XL, Nie YY, Xie SH, Zheng H, Tong Y, Wang YC, Yan TQ, Meng X, Cao JZ, Tang WG, Guo L, Lu RQ. ASAP2 interrupts c-MET-CIN85 interaction to sustain HGF/c-MET-induced malignant potentials in hepatocellular carcinoma. Exp Hematol Oncol 2023; 12:38. [PMID: 37061723 PMCID: PMC10105420 DOI: 10.1186/s40164-023-00393-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sustained activation of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)/c-MET signaling is a major driver of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression, but underlying mechanism is unclear. ArfGAP With SH3 Domain, Ankyrin Repeat And PH Domain 2 (ASAP2) can reportedly activate GTPases and promote receptor tyrosine kinase signaling. However, the exact role of ASAP2 in HCC, especially for c-MET activation, also remains elusive. METHODS ASAP2 expression levels in HCC tissues and cells were quantified using qRT-PCR, western blot (WB) analysis, and immunohistochemistry staining. Cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) and colony formation assays were performed to evaluate cell proliferation rates. Flow cytometry assays were conducted to assess apoptosis rates. Wound healing and Transwell assays were performed to determine cell migration and invasion capacities. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related marker expression levels were also examined. Subcutaneous implantation and tail vein injection models were applied for in vivo growth and metastasis evaluations, respectively. Bioinformatics analyses of The Cancer Genome Atlas and STRING datasets were performed to explore ASAP2 downstream signaling. Co-immunoprecipitation and Cycloheximide chasing experiments were performed to assess protein-protein interactions and protein half-life, respectively. RESULTS ASAP2 had higher expression levels in HCC tissues than in normal liver, and also predicted poor prognosis. Knocking down ASAP2 significantly impaired cell proliferation, migration, and invasion capacities, but promoted apoptosis in HCC cells in vitro. However, overexpression of ASAP2 achieved the opposite effects. In vivo experiments confirmed that ASAP2 could promote HCC cell growth and facilitate lung metastasis. Interestingly, ASAP2 was essential for triggering EMT. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis demonstrated that c-MET signaling was greatly enriched in ASAP2-high HCC cases. Additionally, c-MET signaling activity was significantly decreased following ASAP knockdown, evidenced by reduced c-MET, p-AKT, and p-ERK1/2 protein levels. Importantly, ASAP2 knockdown effectively attenuated HGF/c-MET signaling-induced malignant phenotypes. c-MET and ASAP2 expression levels were positively correlated in our cohort. Mechanistically, ASAP2 can directly bind to CIN85, thereby disrupting its interaction with c-MET, and can thus antagonize CIN85-induced c-MET internalization and lysosome-mediated degradation. Notably, knocking down CIN85 can rescue the observed inhibitory effects caused by ASAP2 knockdown. CONCLUSIONS This study highlights the importance of ASAP2 in sustaining c-MET signaling, which can facilitate HCC progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Lu Ma
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Yan-Yan Nie
- Shanghai Lab. Animal Research Center, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Su-Hong Xie
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Hui Zheng
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Ying Tong
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Yan-Chun Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Tian-Qing Yan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Xin Meng
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Jia-Zhen Cao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Wei-Guo Tang
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Minhang Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 201100, China
| | - Lin Guo
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Ren-Quan Lu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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Liu Y, Xiao X, Wang J, Wang Y, Yu Y. Silencing CircEIF3I/miR-526b-5p Axis Epigenetically Targets HGF/c-Met Signal to Hinder the Malignant Growth, Metastasis and Angiogenesis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Biochem Genet 2023; 61:48-68. [PMID: 35723810 DOI: 10.1007/s10528-022-10239-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)/c-mesenchymal-epithelial transition factor (c-Met) is important for the diagnosis and prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are key regulators of HCC progression, and this study focused on circRNA eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 subunit I (circEIF3I) with HGF/c-Met in HCC. METHODS Levels of circEIF3I, microRNA (miR)-526b-5p, HGF, E-cadherin, N-cadherin, and Vimentin were detected by Gene Expression Omnibus database, quantitative PCR and western blotting. Cell functions were measured by detecting cell growth (cell proliferation assay with WST-1 and EdU, colony formation assay, flow cytometry, caspase 3 activity assay, and nude mouse tumorigenicity assay), metastasis (transwell assay and western blotting), angiogenesis (endothelial tube formation assay). Molecular interaction was determined dual-luciferase reporter assay, RNA immunoprecipitation, and Pearson correlation analysis. RESULTS Expression of circEIF3I was upregulated in HCC tissues. Knockdown of circEIF3I suppressed cell proliferation epithelial-mesenchymal transition, migration, invasion and tube formation ability but promoted apoptosis of HCC cells. CircEIF3I could sponge miR-526b-5pto regulate downstream HGF. Functionally, circEIF3I regulation in HCC cell progression was associated with miR-526b-5p sponging function and HGF upregulation could attenuate tumor-inhibiting roles of miR-526b-5p. HCC tumor growth was delayed by interfering circEIF3I. CONCLUSION CircEIF3I was an oncogenic circRNA in HCC-, and interfering circEIF3I exhibited anti-HCC activity via circEIF3I-miR-526b-5p-HGF/c-Met pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Liu
- Department of Radiological, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun City, Jilin Province, China
| | - Xia Xiao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, No. 218 Ziqiang Street, Changchun, 130001, Jilin Province, China
| | - Jingying Wang
- Department of Laboratory, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun City, Jilin Province, China
| | - Yitong Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, No. 218 Ziqiang Street, Changchun, 130001, Jilin Province, China
| | - Yanhui Yu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, No. 218 Ziqiang Street, Changchun, 130001, Jilin Province, China.
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10
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Huang XY, Zhang JT, Li F, Li TT, Shi XJ, Huang J, Huang XY, Zhou J, Tang ZY, Huang ZL. Exosomal proteomics identifies RAB13 as a potential regulator of metastasis for HCC. Hepatol Commun 2023; 7:e0006. [PMID: 36633475 PMCID: PMC9827969 DOI: 10.1097/hc9.0000000000000006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exosomal proteins from cancer cells are becoming new biomarkers for cancer monitoring and efficacy evaluation. However, their biological function and molecular mechanism underlying tumor metastasis are largely unknown. METHODS Bioinformatic methods such as bulk gene expression analysis, single-cell RNA sequencing data analysis, and gene set enrichment analysis were employed to identify metastasis-associated proteins. The in vitro and in vivo experiments were used to investigate the function of RAB13 in HCC metastasis. RESULTS We identified RAB13 as one of the critical regulators of metastasis in HCC-derived exosomes for the first time. In vitro, the invasiveness of HCC cell lines could be attenuated by RAB13 silence. In vivo, tumor size and proportion of high-grade lung metastatic nodule could be reduced in the mice with orthotopic transplantation of tumors and intravenously injected with exosomes derived from MHCC97H cell with RAB13 silence (si-RAB13-Exo), as compared with those without RAB13 silence (si-NC-Exo). Moreover, in si-RAB13-Exo group, circulating tumor cell counts were decreased at the third, fourth, and fifth weeks after orthotopic transplantation of tumors, and MMP2 (matrix metalloproteinase 2)/TIMP2 (tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 2) ratio was also significantly decreased. In addition, RAB13 expression was also associated with VEGF levels, microvessel density, and tube formation of vascular endothelial cells by both in vitro and in vivo models, indicating that RAB13 was associated with angiogenesis in HCC. CONCLUSIONS We have demonstrated exosomal RAB13 as a potential regulator of metastasis for HCC by in silico, in vitro, and in vivo methods, which greatly improve our understanding of the functional impact of exosomal proteins on HCC metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiu-Yan Huang
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People’s Hospital, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Jun-Tao Zhang
- Institute of Microsurgery on Extremities, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People’s Hospital, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Feng Li
- School of Materials of Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Ting-Ting Li
- Department of Infectious Disease, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People’s Hospital, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Xiang-Jun Shi
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People’s Hospital, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Jin Huang
- Department of Pathology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People’s Hospital, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Xin-Yu Huang
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People’s Hospital, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Jian Zhou
- Liver Cancer Institute and Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Zhao-You Tang
- Liver Cancer Institute and Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Zi-Li Huang
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People’s Hospital, Shanghai, PR China
- Department of Radiology, Xuhui District Central Hospital of Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
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11
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Khanam A, Kottilil S. New Therapeutics for HCC: Does Tumor Immune Microenvironment Matter? Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010437. [PMID: 36613878 PMCID: PMC9820509 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010437] [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: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The incidence of liver cancer is continuously rising where hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains the most common form of liver cancer accounting for approximately 80-90% of the cases. HCC is strongly prejudiced by the tumor microenvironment and being an inflammation-associated condition, the contribution of various immune mechanisms is critical in its development, progression, and metastasis. The tumor immune microenvironment is initially inflammatory which is subsequently replenished by the immunosuppressive cells contributing to tumor immune escape. Regardless of substantial advancement in systemic therapy, HCC has poor prognosis and outcomes attributed to the drug resistance, recurrence, and its metastatic behavior. Therefore, currently, new immunotherapeutic strategies are extensively targeted in preclinical and clinical settings in order to elicit robust HCC-specific immune responses and appear to be quite effective, extending current treatment alternatives. Understanding the complex interplay between the tumor and the immune cells and its microenvironment will provide new insights into designing novel immunotherapeutics to overcome existing treatment hurdles. In this review, we have provided a recent update on immunological mechanisms associated with HCC and discussed potential advancement in immunotherapies for HCC treatment.
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12
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Park NR, Cha JH, Sung PS, Jang JW, Choi JY, Yoon SK, Bae SH. MiR-23b-3p suppresses epithelial-mesenchymal transition, migration, and invasion of hepatocellular carcinoma cells by targeting c-MET. Heliyon 2022; 8:e11135. [PMID: 36281372 PMCID: PMC9586913 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e11135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Aberrant expression of c-MET is known to be associated with tumor recurrence and metastasis by promoting cell proliferation, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and migration in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Recently, miR-23b-3p has been identified as a tumor suppressor, but detailed role of miR-23b-3p in HCC is still unclear. Our study aimed to investigate how miR-23b-3p is associated with the malignant potential of HCC cells. Methods HCC tissues and their adjacent non-tumor tissues were acquired from 30 patients with HCC. Expression of EMT- or stemness-related genes were examined in the two HCC cell lines. Migration of HCC cells was analyzed using transwell and wound healing assays. Results c-MET was overexpressed in HCC tissues compared to the adjacent non-tumor tissues. c-MET knockdown inhibited EMT and reduced migration and invasion of HCC cells. Furthermore, c-MET was a target of miR-23b-3p, and miR-23b-3p expression was decreased in HCC tissues compared to non-tumor tissues. Treatment of miR-23b-3p inhibitor in HCC cells promoted EMT, cell migration, and invasion. In contrast, miR-23b-3p overexpression suppressed EMT, cell migration, and invasion, concomitantly reducing c-MET expression. Transfection of miR-23b-3p inhibitor with concomitant c-MET knockdown mitigated the effects of miR-23b-3p inhibitor on EMT in HCC cells. In addition, transforming growth factor beta1 (TGF-β1) stimulation after miR-23b-3p overexpression induced neither the mesenchymal phenotype nor migratory property of HCC cells. Conclusion In this study, we confirmed that miR-23b-3p downregulation significantly increased EMT, migration, and invasion of HCC cells. In addition, c-MET was confirmed to be a target of miR-23b-3p in HCC cells and regulated the functional effects of miR-23b-3p. These results suggest that miR-23b-3p can be used as a prognostic biomarker and candidate target for HCC treatment. c-MET is a target of miR-23b-3p and overexpressed in HCC tissues. MiR-23b-3p expression was decreased in HCC tissues compared to non-tumor tissues. Inhibition of miR-23b-3p induced migration and invasion via EMT in HCC cells. MiR-23b-3p/c-MET axis may serve as a therapeutic target for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Ri Park
- The Catholic University Liver Research Center, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, 06591, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Hoon Cha
- The Catholic University Liver Research Center, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, 06591, Republic of Korea
| | - Pil Soo Sung
- The Catholic University Liver Research Center, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, 06591, Republic of Korea,Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, 06591, Republic of Korea,Corresponding author.
| | - Jeong Won Jang
- The Catholic University Liver Research Center, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, 06591, Republic of Korea,Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, 06591, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong Young Choi
- The Catholic University Liver Research Center, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, 06591, Republic of Korea,Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, 06591, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Kew Yoon
- The Catholic University Liver Research Center, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, 06591, Republic of Korea,Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, 06591, Republic of Korea
| | - Si Hyun Bae
- The Catholic University Liver Research Center, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, 06591, Republic of Korea,Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Eunpyeong St. Mary's Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, 03382, Republic of Korea,Corresponding author.
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13
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Small Molecule Inhibitors for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Advances and Challenges. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27175537. [PMID: 36080304 PMCID: PMC9457820 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27175537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
According to data provided by World Health Organization, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the sixth most common cause of deaths due to cancer worldwide. Tremendous progress has been achieved over the last 10 years developing novel agents for HCC treatment, including small-molecule kinase inhibitors. Several small molecule inhibitors currently form the core of HCC treatment due to their versatility since they would be more easily absorbed and have higher oral bioavailability, thus easier to formulate and administer to patients. In addition, they can be altered structurally to have greater volumes of distribution, allowing them to block extravascular molecular targets and to accumulate in a high concentration in the tumor microenvironment. Moreover, they can be designed to have shortened half-lives to control for immune-related adverse events. Most importantly, they would spare patients, healthcare institutions, and society as a whole from the burden of high drug costs. The present review provides an overview of the pharmaceutical compounds that are licensed for HCC treatment and other emerging compounds that are still investigated in preclinical and clinical trials. These molecules are targeting different molecular targets and pathways that are proven to be involved in the pathogenesis of the disease.
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14
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Yang X, Liao HY, Zhang HH. Roles of MET in human cancer. Clin Chim Acta 2021; 525:69-83. [PMID: 34951962 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2021.12.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
The MET proto-oncogene was first identified in osteosarcoma cells exposed to carcinogens. Although expressed in many normal cells, MET is overexpressed in many human cancers. MET is involved in the initiation and development of various human cancers and mediates proliferation, migration and invasion. Accordingly, MET has been successfully used as a biomarker for diagnosis and prognosis, survival, post-operative recurrence, risk assessment and pathologic grading, as well as a therapeutic target. In addition, recent work indicates that inhibition of MET expression and function has potential clinical benefit. This review summarizes the role, mechanism, and clinical significance of MET in the formation and development of human cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Yang
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, PR China; Department of Orthopaedics, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou 730000, PR China
| | - Hai-Yang Liao
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, PR China; Department of Orthopaedics, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou 730000, PR China
| | - Hai-Hong Zhang
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, PR China; Department of Orthopaedics, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou 730000, PR China.
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15
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Neutrophils: Driving inflammation during the development of hepatocellular carcinoma. Cancer Lett 2021; 522:22-31. [PMID: 34517084 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2021.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2021] [Revised: 09/05/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The relationship between immune and inflammatory responses in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has garnered significant interest. In the peripheral blood and tumour microenvironment (TME), neutrophils, which are innate immune cells, crucially respond to various inflammatory factors, leading to tumour progression. To some extent, they affect the clinical treatment strategy and survival among HCC patients. A high circulating neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio is a reliable factor that can be used to predict poor outcomes in HCC patients. However, the mechanisms underlying the protumoural effects of circulating neutrophils remain poorly understood. Besides, the distinct role and function of neutrophils at the site of HCC remain relatively unclear, which is partially attributed to their substantial heterogeneity compared with other immune cells. In this review, we firstly discuss the current information available, detailing distinct subsets, functional phenotypes, and the impact of circulating and tumour-infiltrating neutrophils on tumourigenesis in HCC. Furthermore, we describe recent pre-clinical and clinical studies concerning neutrophils for evaluating the feasibility of targeting diverse protumoural aspects to improve therapeutic efficacy, thus paving the way for neutrophil-based treatment, especially in combination with immunotherapy.
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16
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Gao C, Wang S, Shao W, Zhang Y, Lu L, Jia H, Zhu K, Chen J, Dong Q, Lu M, Zhu W, Qin L. Rapamycin enhances the anti-tumor activity of cabozantinib in cMet inhibitor-resistant hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Med 2021; 16:467-482. [PMID: 34669157 DOI: 10.1007/s11684-021-0869-y] [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: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Cabozantinib, mainly targeting cMet and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2, is the second-line treatment for patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the lower response rate and resistance limit its enduring clinical benefit. In this study, we found that cMet-low HCC cells showed primary resistance to cMet inhibitors, and the combination of cabozantinib and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor, rapamycin, exhibited a synergistic inhibitory effect on the in vitro cell proliferation and in vivo tumor growth of these cells. Mechanically, the combination of rapamycin with cabozantinib resulted in the remarkable inhibition of AKT, extracellular signal-regulated protein kinases, mTOR, and common downstream signal molecules of receptor tyrosine kinases; decreased cyclin D1 expression; and induced cell cycle arrest. Meanwhile, rapamycin enhanced the inhibitory effects of cabozantinib on the migration and tubule formation of human umbilical vascular endothelial cells and human growth factor-induced invasion of cMet inhibitor-resistant HCC cells under hypoxia condition. These effects were further validated in xenograft models. In conclusion, our findings uncover a potential combination therapy of cabozantinib and rapamycin to combat cabozantinib-resistant HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Gao
- Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Shenghao Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Weiqing Shao
- Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Lu Lu
- Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Huliang Jia
- Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Kejin Zhu
- Kanion Research Institute, Lianyungang, 222002, China
| | - Jinhong Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Qiongzhu Dong
- Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China.,Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Ming Lu
- Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Wenwei Zhu
- Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China.
| | - Lunxiu Qin
- Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China. .,Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China.
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17
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Lu G, Li X, Zhang J, Xu Q. Molecular insight into the affinity, specificity and cross-reactivity of systematic hepatocellular carcinoma RALT interaction profile with human receptor tyrosine kinases. Amino Acids 2021; 53:1715-1728. [PMID: 34618235 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-021-03083-8] [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: 03/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The ErbB family of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) contains four members: EGFR, ErbB2, ErbB3 and ErbB4; they are involved in the tumorigenesis of diverse cancers and can be inhibited natively by receptor-associated late transducer (RALT), a negative feedback regulator of ErbB signaling in human hepatocytes and hepatocellular carcinoma. Although the biological effects of RALT on EGFR kinase have been widely documented previously, the binding behavior of RALT to other ErbB/RTK kinases still remains largely unexplored. Here, the intermolecular interactions of RALT ErbB-binding region (EBR) as well as its functional sections and peptide segments with ErbBs and other human RTKs were systematically investigated at molecular and structural levels, from which we were able to identify those potential kinase targets of RALT protein, and to profile the affinity, specificity and cross-reactivity of RALT EBR domain and its sub-regions against various RTKs. It is revealed that RALT can target all the four ErbB kinases with high affinity for EGFR/ErbB2/ErbB4 and moderate affinity for ErbB3, but generally exhibits modest affinity to other RTKs, albeit few kinases such as LTK, EPHB6, MET and MUSK were also top-ranked as the unexpected targets of RALT. Peptide segments covering the key binding regions of RALT EBR domain were identified with computational alanine scanning, which were then optimized to obtain a number of designed peptide mutants with improved selectivity between different top-ranked RTKs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guang Lu
- Department of General Surgery, Liyang People's Hospital, Liyang, 213300, China
| | - Xiaoping Li
- Department of General Surgery, Liyang People's Hospital, Liyang, 213300, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Liyang People's Hospital, Liyang, 213300, China
| | - Qinghua Xu
- Department of General Surgery, Liyang People's Hospital, Liyang, 213300, China.
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18
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Anti-Hepatocellular Carcinoma Biomolecules: Molecular Targets Insights. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms221910774. [PMID: 34639131 PMCID: PMC8509806 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 09/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
This report explores the available curative molecules directed against hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Limited efficiency as well as other drawbacks of existing molecules led to the search for promising potential alternatives. Understanding of the cell signaling mechanisms propelling carcinogenesis and driven by cell proliferation, invasion, and angiogenesis can offer valuable information for the investigation of efficient treatment strategies. The complexity of the mechanisms behind carcinogenesis inspires researchers to explore the ability of various biomolecules to target specific pathways. Natural components occurring mainly in food and medicinal plants, are considered an essential resource for discovering new and promising therapeutic molecules. Novel biomolecules normally have an advantage in terms of biosafety. They are also widely diverse and often possess potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties. Based on quantitative structure-activity relationship studies, biomolecules can be used as templates for chemical modifications that improve efficiency, safety, and bioavailability. In this review, we focus on anti-HCC biomolecules that have their molecular targets partially or completely characterized as well as having anti-cancer molecular mechanisms that are fairly described.
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19
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Osaka T, Yamaguchi N, Hara T. [Pharmacological properties and clinical outcomes of the anti-cancer drug, cabozantinib (CABOMETYX ®)]. Nihon Yakurigaku Zasshi 2021; 156:303-311. [PMID: 34470936 DOI: 10.1254/fpj.21045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Cabozantinib (CAB) is a receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor with activity against MET, VEGFR2, and AXL, among others. This drug is considered to exert excellent antitumor effects by inhibiting these targets simultaneously. Significant improvement in the primary endpoint (overall survival or PFS) were observed in patients on CAB in comparison with controls in a phase-III study in patients with renal cell carcinoma, progressed after treatment with anti-angiogenic agents, and in another phase-III study in patients with previously treated, advanced hepatocellular carcinoma. These results led to the approval of CAB in Japan in 2020 as a therapeutic agent for unresectable or metastatic renal cell carcinoma and unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma progressed after cancer chemotherapy, under the trade name of CABOMETYX® (20 mg, and 60 mg tablets). It has been suggested that CAB may modulate the immune system in favor of antitumor immunity and combined use with PD-1 checkpoint inhibitors may exert a synergistic effect. In a phase-III study that examined the efficacy of combination therapy with CAB and nivolumab in treatment-naive patients with advanced renal cell carcinoma, progression-free survival was significantly increased in patients on combination therapy over patients on sunitinib monotherapy. Three global phase-III clinical studies of combination therapy with atezolizumab and CAB in patients with non-small cell lung cancer, castration-resistant prostate cancer, and renal cell carcinoma, are in progress to confirm the efficacy of CAB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsuyoshi Osaka
- Department of Japan Medical Affairs, Japan Oncology Business Unit, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited
| | - Naoya Yamaguchi
- Department of Japan Medical Affairs, Japan Oncology Business Unit, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited
| | - Takahito Hara
- Strategy Planning Office, Takeda Development Center Japan, Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited
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20
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Meng W, Chen T. Association between the HGF/c‑MET signaling pathway and tumorigenesis, progression and prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (Review). Oncol Rep 2021; 46:191. [PMID: 34278495 DOI: 10.3892/or.2021.8142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most aggressive and lethal malignancies with a rising incidence, and is characterized by rapid progression, frequent metastasis, late diagnosis, high postoperative recurrence and poor prognosis. Therefore, novel treatment strategies for HCC, particularly advanced HCC, are urgently required. The hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)/c‑mesenchymal‑epithelial transition receptor (c‑MET) axis is a key signaling pathway in HCC and is strongly associated with its highly malignant features. Available treatments based on HGF/c‑MET inhibition may prolong the lifespan of patients with HCC; however, they do not achieve the desired therapeutic effects. The aim of the present article was to review the basic knowledge regarding the role of the HGF/c‑MET signaling pathway in HCC, and examine the association between the HGF/c‑MET signaling pathway and the tumorigenesis, progression and prognosis of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Meng
- School of Medicine, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei 443002, P.R. China
| | - Tao Chen
- School of Medicine, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei 443002, P.R. China
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21
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Gao Y, Lyu L, Feng Y, Li F, Hu Y. A review of cutting-edge therapies for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC): Perspectives from patents. Int J Med Sci 2021; 18:3066-3081. [PMID: 34400877 PMCID: PMC8364461 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.59930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Rationale: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a challenging disease due to its heterogenous etiology. Several breakthroughs have occurred in treatment of HCC, associated with an enormous number of patent publications for a variety of HCC treatment modalities. As patents can provide valuable information for academic research and commercial development, this study aims to unravel the cutting-edge therapies for HCC by using patents as an indicator. The outcome from this analysis may offer meaningful insights for respective policymaking, strategic plan and research and development (R&D) prioritization. Methods: Derwent Innovation platform was employed to collect the sample data of patents related to HCC treatment technologies worldwide as of December 31, 2019. Data inclusion, screening and exclusion were according to the rules of preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA). Technologies were classified based on Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) staging system and recent clinical publications. Patent citation network analysis was carried out to identify and understand HCC therapeutic technology flow. Results: A dataset of 2543 patent documents and 528 patent families was generated. 11 technological categories were classified. Numerous researches were focalized on refinements in technologies and innovations within the field of HCC therapy, and the major achievements are technology advancement on molecular target therapy, chemotherapy, locoregional therapy, combination therapy and immunotherapy with demonstrated clinical benefits. In patent citation network, Notch pathway investigation, antibody drug conjugate (ADC) technology development and drug eluting beads trans artery chemoembolization (DEB-TACE) advancement are the major technological communities involving patents with the greatest future exploratory potential. Conclusion: Numerous emerging technologies have been identified in this study, in which exploring novel therapeutic targets in molecular target therapy, more localized and visible locoregional therapy and combination of immunotherapy with target therapy or other traditional therapies are highlighted as the future trends in treating HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Yuanjia Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao, China
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22
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Wang T, Zhang Q, Wang N, Liu Z, Zhang B, Zhao Y. Research Progresses of Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Curr Med Chem 2021; 28:3107-3146. [PMID: 33050856 DOI: 10.2174/0929867327666201013162144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignant tumors worldwide, with nearly one million new cases and deaths every year. Owing to the complex pathogenesis, hidden early symptoms, rapidly developing processes, and poor prognosis, the morbidity and mortality of HCC are increasing yearly. With the progress being made in modern medicine, the treatment of HCC is no longer limited to traditional methods. Targeted therapy and immunotherapy have emerged to treat advanced and metastatic HCC in recent years. Since Sorafenib is the first molecular targeting drug against angiogenesis, targeted drugs for HCC are continually emerging. Moreover, immunotherapy plays a vital role in clinical trials. In particular, the application of immune checkpoint inhibitors, which have received increasing attention in the field of cancer treatment, is a possible research path. Interestingly, these two therapies generally complement each other at some stages of HCC, bringing new hope for patients with advanced HCC. In this paper, we discuss the research progress of targeted therapy and immunotherapy for HCC in recent years, which will provide a reference for the further development of drugs for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Wang
- Institute of Drug Discovery Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, China
| | - Qiting Zhang
- Institute of Drug Discovery Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, China
| | - Ning Wang
- Institute of Drug Discovery Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, China
| | - Ziqi Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, the PLA Rocket Force Characteristic Medical Center, Beijing 100088, China
| | - Bin Zhang
- Li Dak Sum Yip Yio Chin Kenneth Li Marine Biopharmaceutical Research Center, Department of Marine Pharmacy, College of Food and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, China
| | - Yufen Zhao
- Institute of Drug Discovery Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, China
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23
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Ryoo BY, Cheng AL, Ren Z, Kim TY, Pan H, Rau KM, Choi HJ, Park JW, Kim JH, Yen CJ, Lim HY, Zhou D, Straub J, Scheele J, Berghoff K, Qin S. Randomised Phase 1b/2 trial of tepotinib vs sorafenib in Asian patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma with MET overexpression. Br J Cancer 2021; 125:200-208. [PMID: 33972742 PMCID: PMC8292411 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-021-01380-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2020] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background This open-label, Phase 1b/2 study evaluated the highly selective MET inhibitor tepotinib in systemic anticancer treatment (SACT)-naive Asian patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (aHCC) with MET overexpression. Methods In Phase 2b, tepotinib was orally administered once daily (300, 500 or 1,000 mg) to Asian adults with aHCC. The primary endpoints were dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs) and adverse events (AEs). Phase 2 randomised SACT-naive Asian adults with aHCC with MET overexpression to tepotinib (recommended Phase 2 dose [RP2D]) or sorafenib 400 mg twice daily. The primary endpoint was independently assessed time to progression (TTP). Results In Phase 1b (n = 27), no DLTs occurred; the RP2D was 500 mg. In Phase 2 (n = 90, 45 patients per arm), the primary endpoint was met: independently assessed TTP was significantly longer with tepotinib versus sorafenib (median 2.9 versus 1.4 months, HR = 0.42, 90% confidence interval: 0.26–0.70, P = 0.0043). Progression-free survival and objective response also favoured tepotinib. Treatment-related Grade ≥3 AE rates were 28.9% with tepotinib and 45.5% with sorafenib. Conclusions Tepotinib improved TTP versus sorafenib and was generally well tolerated in SACT-naive Asian patients with aHCC with MET overexpression. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01988493.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baek-Yeol Ryoo
- Department of Oncology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| | - Ann-Li Cheng
- Department of Oncology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Zhenggang Ren
- Liver Cancer Institute, Department of Hepatic Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tae-You Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hongming Pan
- School of Medicine, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Kun-Ming Rau
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and E-Da Cancer Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Hye Jin Choi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Joong-Won Park
- Center for Liver and Pancreatobiliary Cancer, National Cancer Center, Goyang-si, Republic of Korea
| | - Jee Hyun Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seongnam-si, Republic of Korea
| | - Chia Jui Yen
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, Tainan City, Taiwan
| | - Ho Yeong Lim
- Department of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Dongli Zhou
- EMD Serono Research & Development Institute, Inc. (A Business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany), Billerica, MA, USA
| | - Josef Straub
- Clinical Biomarker & Companion Diagnostics, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Juergen Scheele
- Clinical Oncology, Global Research and Development, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Karin Berghoff
- Global Patient Safety Innovation, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Shukui Qin
- Medical Oncology Department, PLA Cancer Center, Nanjing Bayi Hospital, Nanjing, China
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24
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Farzaneh Z, Vosough M, Agarwal T, Farzaneh M. Critical signaling pathways governing hepatocellular carcinoma behavior; small molecule-based approaches. Cancer Cell Int 2021; 21:208. [PMID: 33849569 PMCID: PMC8045321 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-021-01924-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the second leading cause of death due to cancer. Although there are different treatment options, these strategies are not efficient in terms of restricting the tumor cell's proliferation and metastasis. The liver tumor microenvironment contains the non-parenchymal cells with supportive or inhibitory effects on the cancerous phenotype of HCC. Several signaling pathways are dis-regulated in HCC and cause uncontrolled cell propagation, metastasis, and recurrence of liver carcinoma cells. Recent studies have established new approaches for the prevention and treatment of HCC using small molecules. Small molecules are compounds with a low molecular weight that usually inhibit the specific targets in signal transduction pathways. These components can induce cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, block metastasis, and tumor growth. Devising strategies for simultaneously targeting HCC and the non-parenchymal population of the tumor could lead to more relevant research outcomes. These strategies may open new avenues for the treatment of HCC with minimal cytotoxic effects on healthy cells. This study provides the latest findings on critical signaling pathways governing HCC behavior and using small molecules in the control of HCC both in vitro and in vivo models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Farzaneh
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Massoud Vosough
- Department of Regenerative Medicine, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Tarun Agarwal
- Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, West Bengal, 721302, India
| | - Maryam Farzaneh
- Fertility, Infertility and Perinatology Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.
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25
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Jiang W, Li T, Guo J, Wang J, Jia L, Shi X, Yang T, Jiao R, Wei X, Feng Z, Tang Q, Ji G. Bispecific c-Met/PD-L1 CAR-T Cells Have Enhanced Therapeutic Effects on Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Front Oncol 2021; 11:546586. [PMID: 33777728 PMCID: PMC7987916 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.546586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
T cells expressing chimeric antigen receptors, especially CD19 CAR-T cells have exhibited effective antitumor activities in B cell malignancies, but due to several factors such as antigen escape effects and tumor microenvironment, their curative potential in hepatocellular carcinoma has not been encouraging. To reduce the antigen escape risk of hepatocellular carcinoma, this study was to design and construct a bispecific CAR targeting c-Met and PD-L1. c-Met/PD-L1 CAR-T cells were obtained by lentiviral transfection, and the transfection efficiency was monitored by flow cytometry analysis. LDH release assays were used to elucidate the efficacy of c-Met/PD-L1 CAR-T cells on hepatocellular carcinoma cells. In addition, xenograft models bearing human hepatocellular carcinoma were constructed to detect the antitumor effect of c-Met/PD-L1 CAR-T cells in vivo. The results shown that this bispecific CAR was manufactured successfully, T cells modified with this bispecific CAR demonstrated improved antitumor activities against c-Met and PD-L1 positive hepatocellular carcinoma cells when compared with those of monovalent c-Met CAR-T cells or PD-L1 CAR-T cells but shown no distinct cytotoxicity on hepatocytes in vitro. In vivo experiments shown that c-Met/PD-L1 CAR-T cells significantly inhibited tumor growth and improve survival persistence compared with other groups. These results suggested that the design of single-chain, bi-specific c-Met/PD-L1 CAR-T is more effective than that of monovalent c-Met CAR-T for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma., and this bi-specific c-Met/PD-L1 CAR is rational and implementable with current T-cell engineering technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Jiang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Tao Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiaojiao Guo
- Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Key Laboratory of Antibody Technique of National Health Commission, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Department of Pathology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jingjing Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Lizhou Jia
- Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Key Laboratory of Antibody Technique of National Health Commission, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Department of Pathology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiao Shi
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Tingting Yang
- Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Key Laboratory of Antibody Technique of National Health Commission, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Department of Pathology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ruonan Jiao
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xin Wei
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhenqing Feng
- Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Key Laboratory of Antibody Technique of National Health Commission, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Department of Pathology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qi Tang
- Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Key Laboratory of Antibody Technique of National Health Commission, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Department of Pathology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Guozhong Ji
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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26
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A selective small-molecule inhibitor of c-Met suppresses keloid fibroblast growth in vitro and in a mouse model. Sci Rep 2021; 11:5468. [PMID: 33750878 PMCID: PMC7943593 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-84982-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Keloids, tumor-like lesions that result from excessive scar formation, have no definitive treatment modality. Activation of c-mesenchymal-epithelial transition factor (c-Met) promotes cell proliferation and survival. Selective c-Met inhibitors, such as PHA-665752, may attenuate the activity of keloid fibroblasts and reduce keloid formation. Here, we aimed to evaluate the effect of PHA-665752, a second-generation selective small-molecule inhibitor of c-Met, on human keloid fibroblasts in vitro and in a mouse model. We performed in vitro cytotoxicity assays, scratch tests, western blotting, and immunofluorescence on human keloid fibroblasts. We also injected human fibroblasts into severe combined immunodeficient mice and measured the degree of nodule formation and skin histologic characteristics. We found that keloid fibroblast migration was inhibited by PHA-665752. Inhibitor treatment was also associated with lower expression of members of the hepatocyte growth factor/c-Met pathway, and lower fibroblast activity and collagen synthesis. In the in vivo experiments, PHA-665752-treated mice had lower nodule volumes and weights, accompanied by less inflammatory cell infiltration and collagen deposition, than those in control mice. These findings showed that although an in vivo model may not accurately represent the pathophysiology of human keloid development, PHA-665752 suppressed keloid fibroblast activity by inhibiting the c-Met-related tyrosine kinase pathway.
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27
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Yu J, Xia X, Dong Y, Gong Z, Li G, Chen GG, Lai PBS. CYP1A2 suppresses hepatocellular carcinoma through antagonizing HGF/MET signaling. Am J Cancer Res 2021; 11:2123-2136. [PMID: 33500715 PMCID: PMC7797680 DOI: 10.7150/thno.49368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Rationale: Hyperactivation of HGF/MET signaling pathway is a critical driver in liver tumorigenesis. Cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) was significantly down-regulated in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, little is explored about its tumor suppressive role in HCC. In this study, we examined the functional mechanisms and clinical implication of CYP1A2 in HCC. Methods: The clinical impact of CYP1A2 was evaluated in HCC patients in Hong Kong cohort. The biological functions of CYP1A2 were investigated in vitro and in vivo. A series of biochemical experiments including Western blot assay, immunohistochemistry, quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, and Co-immunoprecipitation assay were conducted. Results: CYP1A2 expression was prominently silenced in HCC tumor tissues and the high expression of CYP1A2 was significantly correlated with lower AFP level, less vascular invasion, and better tumor-free survival in local cohort of HCC patients. The overexpression of CYP1A2 inhibited HCC cell viability and clonogenicity, reduced cell migration and invasion abilities in vitro, and suppressed tumorigenicity in vivo, whereas CYP1A2 knockdown exhibited the opposite effects. CYP1A2 significantly hindered HGF/MET signaling and Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) expression in HCC cells. Mechanically, CYP1A2 decreased HGF level and diminished HIF-1α expression, both of which are recognized as key regulators of MET activation. As the transcriptional activator of MET, HIF-1α was identified as a binding partner of CYP1A2. Direct binding of CYP1A2 with HIF-1α induced ubiquitin-mediated degradation of HIF-1α, inhibiting HIF-1α-mediated transcriptions. Conclusions: In conclusion, our results have identified CYP1A2 as a novel antagonist of HGF/MET signaling, and CYP1A2 may serve as an independent new biomarker for the prognosis of HCC patients.
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28
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Yu J, Chen GG, Lai PBS. Targeting hepatocyte growth factor/c-mesenchymal-epithelial transition factor axis in hepatocellular carcinoma: Rationale and therapeutic strategies. Med Res Rev 2020; 41:507-524. [PMID: 33026703 DOI: 10.1002/med.21738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of cancer mortality worldwide. The outcome of current standard treatments, as well as targeted therapies in advanced stages, are still unsatisfactory. Attention has been drawn to novel strategies for better treatment efficacy. Hepatocyte growth factor/c-mesenchymal-epithelial transition factor (HGF/c-Met) axis has been known as an essential element in the regulation of liver diseases and as an oncogenic factor in HCC. In this review, we collected the evidence of HGF/c-Met as a tumor progression and prognostic marker, discussed the anti-c-Met therapy in vitro, summarized the outcome of c-Met inhibitors in clinical trials, and identified potential impetus for future anti-c-Met treatments. We also analyzed the inconsistency of HGF/c-Met from various publications and offered reasonable explanations based on the current understanding in this area. In conclusion, HGF/c-Met plays a crucial role in the progression and growth of HCC, and the strategies to inhibit this pathway may facilitate the development of new and effective treatments for HCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianqing Yu
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - George G Chen
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,Shenzhen Research Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Paul B S Lai
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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29
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C3G Is Upregulated in Hepatocarcinoma, Contributing to Tumor Growth and Progression and to HGF/MET Pathway Activation. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12082282. [PMID: 32823931 PMCID: PMC7463771 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12082282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Revised: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The complexity of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) challenges the identification of disease-relevant signals. C3G, a guanine nucleotide exchange factor for Rap and other Ras proteins, plays a dual role in cancer acting as either a tumor suppressor or promoter depending on tumor type and stage. The potential relevance of C3G upregulation in HCC patients suggested by database analysis remains unknown. We have explored C3G function in HCC and the underlying mechanisms using public patient data and in vitro and in vivo human and mouse HCC models. We found that C3G is highly expressed in progenitor cells and neonatal hepatocytes, whilst being down-regulated in adult hepatocytes and re-expressed in human HCC patients, mouse HCC models and HCC cell lines. Moreover, high C3G mRNA levels correlate with tumor progression and a lower patient survival rate. C3G expression appears to be tightly modulated within the HCC program, influencing distinct cell biological properties. Hence, high C3G expression levels are necessary for cell tumorigenic properties, as illustrated by reduced colony formation in anchorage-dependent and -independent growth assays induced by permanent C3G silencing using shRNAs. Additionally, we demonstrate that C3G down-regulation interferes with primary HCC tumor formation in xenograft assays, increasing apoptosis and decreasing proliferation. In vitro assays also revealed that C3G down-regulation enhances the pro-migratory, invasive and metastatic properties of HCC cells through an epithelial-mesenchymal switch that favors the acquisition of a more mesenchymal phenotype. Consistently, a low C3G expression in HCC cells correlates with lung metastasis formation in mice. However, the subsequent restoration of C3G levels is associated with metastatic growth. Mechanistically, C3G down-regulation severely impairs HGF/MET signaling activation in HCC cells. Collectively, our results indicate that C3G is a key player in HCC. C3G promotes tumor growth and progression, and the modulation of its levels is essential to ensure distinct biological features of HCC cells throughout the oncogenic program. Furthermore, C3G requirement for HGF/MET signaling full activation provides mechanistic data on how it works, pointing out the relevance of assessing whether high C3G levels could identify HCC responders to MET inhibitors.
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30
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Luo H, Zhang T, Cheng P, Li D, Ogorodniitchouk O, Lahmamssi C, Wang G, Lan M. Therapeutic implications of fibroblast growth factor receptor inhibitors in a combination regimen for solid tumors. Oncol Lett 2020; 20:2525-2536. [PMID: 32782571 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2020.11858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2019] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
A number of novel drugs targeting the fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) signaling pathway have been developed, including mostly tyrosine kinase inhibitors, selective inhibitors or monoclonal antibodies. Multiple preclinical and clinical studies have been conducted worldwide to ascertain their effects on diverse solid tumors. Drugs, such as lenvatinib, dovitinib and other non-specific FGFR inhibitors, widely used in clinical practice, have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for cancer therapy, although the majority of drugs remain in preclinical tests or clinical research. The resistance to a single agent for FGFR inhibition with synthetic lethal action may be overcome by a combination of therapeutic approaches and FGFR inhibitors, which could also enhance the sensitivity to other therapeutics. Therefore, the aim of the present review is to describe the pharmacological characteristics of FGFR inhibitors that may be combined with other therapeutic agents and the preclinical data supporting their combination. Additionally, their clinical implications and the remaining challenges for FGFR inhibitor combination regimens are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Luo
- Department of Oncology, General Hospital of Western Theater Command, Chengdu, Sichuan 610083, P.R. China
| | - Tao Zhang
- Department of Oncology, General Hospital of Western Theater Command, Chengdu, Sichuan 610083, P.R. China
| | - Peng Cheng
- Department of Oncology, General Hospital of Western Theater Command, Chengdu, Sichuan 610083, P.R. China
| | - Dong Li
- Department of Oncology, General Hospital of Western Theater Command, Chengdu, Sichuan 610083, P.R. China
| | | | - Chaimaa Lahmamssi
- Institut de Cancérologie Lucien Neuwirth, 42270 Saint Priest en Jarez, France
| | - Ge Wang
- Cancer Center, Institute of Surgical Research, Third Affiliated Hospital, Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing 400042, P.R. China
| | - Meiling Lan
- Cancer Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University (Jie Er Hospital), Chongqing 401120, P.R. China
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31
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Zhu C, Shi H, Wu M, Wei X. A dual MET/AXL small-molecule inhibitor exerts efficacy against gastric carcinoma through killing cancer cells as well as modulating tumor microenvironment. MedComm (Beijing) 2020; 1:103-118. [PMID: 34766112 PMCID: PMC8489669 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Revised: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The receptor tyrosine kinases MET and AXL have been implicated in tumorigenesis and aggressiveness of multiple malignancies. We performed this study to evaluate the antitumor impact of LY2801653, a dual MET and AXL inhibitor on gastric cancer and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. In the present study, tissue microarrays containing gastric cancer tissues were stained with MET and AXL antibodies, which showed the prognostic values of MET and AXL. Administration of LY2801653 inhibited cell proliferation, migration, epithelial‐mesenchymal transition, induced apoptosis, and cell cycle arrest. Xenograft mouse models showed suppressed cell proliferation of tumors in high MET and AXL expression cells. LY2801653 also inhibited the growth of MET and AXL‐independent cells at higher but clinically relevant doses through decreased angiogenesis and M2 macrophages in the tumor microenvironment. In conclusion, our study provides evidence for MET and AXL as prognostic biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets in gastric cancer. The dual MET/AXL inhibitor LY2801653 represents a promising therapeutic strategy for the treatment of patients with gastric carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenjing Zhu
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics West China Hospital Sichuan University Chengdu Sichuan China.,Department of Radiation Oncology Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research & The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University Nanjing Jiangsu China
| | - Huashan Shi
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics West China Hospital Sichuan University Chengdu Sichuan China
| | - Min Wu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences School of Medicine and Health Sciences University of North Dakota Grand Forks North Dakota USA
| | - Xiawei Wei
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics West China Hospital Sichuan University Chengdu Sichuan China
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32
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Minagawa T, Yamazaki K, Masugi Y, Tsujikawa H, Ojima H, Hibi T, Abe Y, Yagi H, Kitago M, Shinoda M, Itano O, Kitagawa Y, Sakamoto M. Activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase is associated with hepatocellular carcinoma with aggressive phenotypes. Hepatol Res 2020; 50:353-364. [PMID: 31702093 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.13445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2019] [Revised: 09/28/2019] [Accepted: 10/18/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
AIM Sorafenib inhibits multiple kinase signaling pathways, including the rat sarcoma virus (Ras)/rapidly accelerated fibrosarcoma (Raf)/mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) pathway, and is a promising therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the role of ERK activation in HCC remains unclear. This study was designed to investigate the potential link between ERK activation and aggressive HCC phenotypes. METHODS We evaluated nuclear ERK expression by immunohistochemistry in 154 resected HCC nodules from 136 patients. We then investigated the associations of ERK expression with the clinicopathological characteristics of HCC, c-MET expression, and the molecular subclass biomarkers Ki-67, keratin 19 (KRT19, CK19, or K19), and sal-like protein 4. Multivariate Cox regression analysis was carried out to determine independent prognostic factors for overall survival and recurrence-free survival. The effects of ERK activation by hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) on eight HCC cell lines were further examined. RESULTS High-level nuclear expression of ERK was observed in 20 (13%) of 154 nodules and was significantly associated with higher serum alpha-fetoprotein levels (P = 0.034), poorer differentiation (P = 0.003), a higher Ki-67 index (P < 0.001), high-level expression of c-MET (P = 0.008), KRT19 (P = 0.002), or sal-like protein 4 (P < 0.001), and shorter overall survival (multivariate hazard ratio 3.448; P = 0.028) and recurrence-free survival (multivariate hazard ratio 2.755; P = 0.004). HCC cells treated with hepatocyte growth factor showed enhanced cell proliferation together with ERK activation and upregulated KRT19 expression, both of which were inhibited by sorafenib. CONCLUSIONS High-level ERK activation is associated with a KRT19-positive highly proliferative subtype of HCC with a dismal prognosis. These findings support the key role of the hepatocyte growth factor/c-MET/ERK axis in HCC progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takuya Minagawa
- Department of Pathology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ken Yamazaki
- Department of Pathology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yohei Masugi
- Department of Pathology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hanako Tsujikawa
- Department of Pathology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hidenori Ojima
- Department of Pathology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Taizo Hibi
- Department of Pediatric Surgery and Transplantation, Kumamoto University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Yuta Abe
- Department of Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Yagi
- Department of Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Minoru Kitago
- Department of Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masahiro Shinoda
- Department of Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Osamu Itano
- Department of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic and Gastrointestinal Surgery, School of Medicine, International University of Health and Welfare, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yuko Kitagawa
- Department of Surgery, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Michiie Sakamoto
- Department of Pathology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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Pu XH, Yue S, Wu HY, Yang J, Fan XS, Fu Y, Ye Q, Chen J. C-MET in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: High-Frequency amplification predicts protein expression and a unique molecular subtype. Pathol Res Pract 2020; 216:152857. [PMID: 32089411 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2020.152857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2019] [Revised: 01/10/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
As an increasing number of gene alterations have been discovered in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC), molecular targets are promising for the diagnosis and treatment of distinct subpopulations carrying unique molecular signatures. C-MET amplification is associated with a variety of tumors, including ICC; however, the characteristics of this alteration have not been assessed in ICC. By determining the ratios of C-MET/chromosome enumeration probe (CEP) 7 double-colour probes, we evaluated the presence of C-MET amplification in a cohort of 133 ICC tumors by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). We further determined the levels of MET protein expression by immunohistochemistry (IHC) and analyzed clinicopathologic records. Of the samples, 21 (15.8 %) had high-frequency and 41 (30.8 %) had low-frequency C-MET genetic amplification, and 71 (53.4 %) had a normal C-MET gene. There were significant differences in gross classification (p = 0.045), microscopic cholangitis (p = 0.030), mucus level in tumors (p = 0.012) and T stage (p = 0.007) between the three groups. When we combined high-frequency and low-frequency amplifications of C-MET into one group, only microscopic cholangitis (p = 0.010) and stage (p = 0.016) showed significant differences compared to normal C-MET gene expression. However, when we combined the low-frequency C-MET amplification group with the normal C-MET group and compared this combined group with the high-frequency C-MET amplification group, the high-frequency group had more younger patients (p = 0.047), had more non-mass-forming (MF)-type cases according to gross classification (p = 0.015), secreted more mucus (p = 0.002) and appeared to have a higher T stage (p = 0.031) than the combined group. For IHC results, although only cluster C-MET amplification predicted protein overexpression, high-frequency amplification was associated with more protein expression than the other genetic statuses (p = 0.000). As low-frequency C-MET amplification exhibited similar biology to that of the normal gene, we regarded high-frequency amplification of C-MET as a unique molecular subtype. It may play important roles in tumor progression and may be used as a prognostic marker for targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Hong Pu
- Departments of Pathology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Shen Yue
- Department of Medical Genetics, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Hong-Yan Wu
- Departments of Pathology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Jun Yang
- Departments of Pathology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xiang-Shan Fan
- Departments of Pathology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yao Fu
- Departments of Pathology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Qing Ye
- Departments of Pathology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, Jiangsu Province, China.
| | - Jun Chen
- Departments of Pathology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing 210008, Jiangsu Province, China.
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34
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Wang H, Rao B, Lou J, Li J, Liu Z, Li A, Cui G, Ren Z, Yu Z. The Function of the HGF/c-Met Axis in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:55. [PMID: 32117981 PMCID: PMC7018668 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.00055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2019] [Accepted: 01/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignancies worldwide, leading to a large global cancer burden. Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and its high-affinity receptor, mesenchymal epithelial transition factor (c-Met), are closely related to the onset, progression, and metastasis of multiple tumors. The HGF/c-Met axis is involved in cell proliferation, movement, differentiation, invasion, angiogenesis, and apoptosis by activating multiple downstream signaling pathways. In this review, we focus on the function of the HGF/c-Met axis in HCC. The HGF/c-Met axis promotes the onset, proliferation, invasion, and metastasis of HCC. Moreover, it can serve as a biomarker for diagnosis and prognosis, as well as a therapeutic target for HCC. In addition, it is closely related to drug resistance during HCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiyu Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Gene Hospital of Henan Province, Precision Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Benchen Rao
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Gene Hospital of Henan Province, Precision Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jiamin Lou
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Gene Hospital of Henan Province, Precision Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jianhao Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Gene Hospital of Henan Province, Precision Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zhenguo Liu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Gene Hospital of Henan Province, Precision Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ang Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Gene Hospital of Henan Province, Precision Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Guangying Cui
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Gene Hospital of Henan Province, Precision Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zhigang Ren
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Gene Hospital of Henan Province, Precision Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zujiang Yu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Gene Hospital of Henan Province, Precision Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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35
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Wen Y, Cai X, Chen S, Fu W, Chai D, Zhang H, Zhang Y. 7-Methoxy-1-Tetralone Induces Apoptosis, Suppresses Cell Proliferation and Migration in Hepatocellular Carcinoma via Regulating c-Met, p-AKT, NF-κB, MMP2, and MMP9 Expression. Front Oncol 2020; 10:58. [PMID: 32117722 PMCID: PMC7020565 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.00058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2019] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to determine the anti-proliferative and anti-migratory effects of 7-methoxy-1-tetralone (MT) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells. MTT assay assessed HCC cell viability; cell apoptosis of HCC cells was determined by flow cytometry; wound healing assay evaluated HCC cell migratory ability; protein expression levels were assessed using western blot assay; the in vivo antitumor effects of MT were tested in BALB/c nude mice and the pathological changes within the tumor tissues were evaluated by immunohistochemistry. MT treatment significantly suppressed the cell proliferative and migratory potentials of HepG2 cells, and induced HepG2 cell apoptosis. The western blot assay showed that MT treatment caused a suppression on c-Met, phosphorylated AKT (p-AKT), NF-κB, matrix metallopeptidase 2 (MMP2)/MMP9 protein levels in HepG2 cells. Further in vivo animal studies deciphered that MT treatment suppressed tumor growth of HepG2 cells in the nude mice, but had no effect on the body weight and the organ index of liver and spleen. Further immunohistochemistry analysis of the dissected tumor tissues showed that MT treatment significantly suppressed the protein expression levels of NF-κB, MMP9, MMP2, and p-AKT. In summary, the present study demonstrated the anti-tumor effects of MT on the HCC, and MT suppressed HCC progression possibly via regulating proliferation- and migration-related mediators including c-Met, p-AKT, NF-κB, MMP2, and MMP9 in HepG2 cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Wen
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Construction and Application of New Drug Screening Model Systems, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Cell Biology and Medical Genetics, School of Life Sciences and Biopharmaceutics, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyan Cai
- Department of Cell Biology and Medical Genetics, School of Life Sciences and Biopharmaceutics, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shaolian Chen
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei Fu
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Construction and Application of New Drug Screening Model Systems, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Cell Biology and Medical Genetics, School of Life Sciences and Biopharmaceutics, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dong Chai
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Construction and Application of New Drug Screening Model Systems, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Cell Biology and Medical Genetics, School of Life Sciences and Biopharmaceutics, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huainian Zhang
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Construction and Application of New Drug Screening Model Systems, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Cell Biology and Medical Genetics, School of Life Sciences and Biopharmaceutics, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yongli Zhang
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Construction and Application of New Drug Screening Model Systems, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Cell Biology and Medical Genetics, School of Life Sciences and Biopharmaceutics, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
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36
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Ueasilamongkol P, Khamphaya T, Guerra MT, Rodrigues M, Gomes DA, Kong Y, Wei W, Jain D, Trampert DC, Ananthanarayanan M, Banales JM, Roberts LR, Farshidfar F, Nathanson MH, Weerachayaphorn J. Type 3 Inositol 1,4,5-Trisphosphate Receptor Is Increased and Enhances Malignant Properties in Cholangiocarcinoma. Hepatology 2020; 71:583-599. [PMID: 31251815 PMCID: PMC6934938 DOI: 10.1002/hep.30839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2018] [Accepted: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is the second most common malignancy arising in the liver. It carries a poor prognosis, in part because its pathogenesis is not well understood. The type 3 inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (ITPR3) is the principal intracellular calcium ion (Ca2+ ) release channel in cholangiocytes, and its increased expression has been related to the pathogenesis of malignancies in other types of tissues, so we investigated its role in CCA. ITPR3 expression was increased in both hilar and intrahepatic CCA samples as well as in CCA cell lines. Deletion of ITPR3 from CCA cells impaired proliferation and cell migration. A bioinformatic analysis suggested that overexpression of ITPR3 in CCA would have a mitochondrial phenotype, so this was also examined. ITPR3 normally is concentrated in a subapical region of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) in cholangiocytes, but both immunogold electron microscopy and super-resolution microscopy showed that ITPR3 in CCA cells was also in regions of ER in close association with mitochondria. Deletion of ITPR3 from these cells impaired mitochondrial Ca2+ signaling and led to cell death. Conclusion: ITPR3 expression in cholangiocytes becomes enhanced in CCA. This contributes to malignant features, including cell proliferation and migration and enhanced mitochondrial Ca2+ signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tanaporn Khamphaya
- Toxicology Graduate Program, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Mateus T. Guerra
- Section of Digestive Diseases, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Michele Rodrigues
- Section of Digestive Diseases, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Dawidson A. Gomes
- Section of Digestive Diseases, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Yong Kong
- Department of Biostatistics, Yale University School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Wei Wei
- Department of Biostatistics, Yale University School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Dhanpat Jain
- Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - David C. Trampert
- Section of Digestive Diseases, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | | | - Jesus M. Banales
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), CIBERehd, Ikerbasque, San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Lewis R. Roberts
- Divisions of Gastroenterology and Hepatology and Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Farshad Farshidfar
- Department of Oncology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Arnie Charbonneau Cancer Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Michael H. Nathanson
- Section of Digestive Diseases, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Jittima Weerachayaphorn
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Section of Digestive Diseases, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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37
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Zaky MY, Liu X, Wang T, Wang S, Liu F, Wang D, Wu Y, Zhang Y, Guo D, Sun Q, Li Q, Zhang J, Zhang Y, Dong W, Liu Z, Liu S, Liu H. Dynasore potentiates c-Met inhibitors against hepatocellular carcinoma through destabilizing c-Met. Arch Biochem Biophys 2019; 680:108239. [PMID: 31881189 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2019.108239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2019] [Revised: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 12/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
c-Met receptor is frequently overexpressed in hepatocellular carcinoma and thus considered as an attractive target for pharmacological intervention with small molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Albeit with the development of multiple c-Met inhibitors, none reached clinical application in the treatment of hepatoma so far. To improve the efficacy of c-Met inhibitors towards hepatocellular carcinoma, we investigated the combined effects of the dynamin inhibitor dynasore with several c-Met inhibitors, including tivantinib, PHA-665752, and JNJ-38877605. We provide several lines of evidence that dynasore enhanced the inhibitory effects of these inhibitors on hepatoma cell proliferation and migration, accompanied with increased cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Mechanically, the combinatorial treatments decreased c-Met levels and hence markedly disrupted downstream signaling, as revealed by the dramatically declined phosphorylation of AKT and MEK. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that the candidate agent dynasore potentiated the inhibitory effects of c-Met inhibitors against hepatoma cells and will shed light on the development of novel therapeutic strategies to target c-Met in the clinical management of hepatocellular carcinoma patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Y Zaky
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cell & The Second Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China; Molecular Physiology Division, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Beni-Suef University, Egypt
| | - Xiuxiu Liu
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cell & The Second Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Taishu Wang
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cell & The Second Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Shanshan Wang
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cell & The Second Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Fang Liu
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cell & The Second Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Duchuang Wang
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cell & The Second Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Yueguang Wu
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cell & The Second Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Yang Zhang
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cell & The Second Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Dong Guo
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cell & The Second Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Qianhui Sun
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cell & The Second Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Qiong Li
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cell & The Second Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Jinrui Zhang
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cell & The Second Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Yingqiu Zhang
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cell & The Second Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Weijie Dong
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Zhenhua Liu
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cell & The Second Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China; Department of General Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China.
| | - Shuyan Liu
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cell & The Second Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China.
| | - Han Liu
- Institute of Cancer Stem Cell & The Second Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China.
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Qin S, Chan SL, Sukeepaisarnjaroen W, Han G, Choo SP, Sriuranpong V, Pan H, Yau T, Guo Y, Chen M, Ren Z, Xu J, Yen CJ, Lin ZZ, Manenti L, Gu Y, Sun Y, Tiedt R, Hao L, Song W, Tanwandee T. A phase II study of the efficacy and safety of the MET inhibitor capmatinib (INC280) in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma. Ther Adv Med Oncol 2019; 11:1758835919889001. [PMID: 31853265 PMCID: PMC6906348 DOI: 10.1177/1758835919889001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2019] [Accepted: 10/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The objectives of this phase II study were to determine the clinical activity of the MET tyrosine kinase inhibitor capmatinib (INC280) in patients with MET-dysregulated advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and to assess the safety, pharmacokinetics, and correlation of biomarkers with the response. Methods This phase II, open-label, single-arm study evaluated twice daily (BID) oral capmatinib in a dose-determining stage, utilizing a Bayesian Logistic Regression Model (BLRM) subject to Escalation with Overdose Control criteria, safety, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamic information to determine a recommended dose for expansion (RDE) evaluating efficacy in patients with MET-dysregulated HCC. Results A total of 38 patients received treatment. In the dose-determining stage, patients received capmatinib 300 mg BID capsules (n = 8), and in the expansion, patients received 600 mg BID capsules (n = 28) or 400 mg BID tablets (n = 2) based on the BLRM and other relevant clinical data. No predefined qualifying adverse events (AEs) were observed during the first 28 days of treatment, and the RDE was 600 mg BID capsules (equivalent pharmacokinetics to 400 mg BID tablets). The most common any causality AEs were nausea (42%), vomiting (37%), and diarrhea (34%). In the expansion stage, in a subgroup of 10 patients with MET-high HCC, the overall response rate was 30%, including 1 durable complete response (>600 days) and 2 partial responses [1 durable (>600 days)]. Conclusions Single agent capmatinib at the RDE is tolerable with a manageable safety profile. Antitumor activity was seen in a subset of patients with MET-dysregulated (MET-high) HCC. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01737827. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01737827.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shukui Qin
- PLA Cancer Center, Nanjing Bayi Hospital, Nanjing 210002, China
| | - Stephen Lam Chan
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Hong Kong, China
| | | | - Guohong Han
- Department of Liver Disease and Digestive Interventional Radiology, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Su Pin Choo
- Division of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center Singapore, Singapore
| | - Virote Sriuranpong
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Hongming Pan
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sir Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Thomas Yau
- Department of Surgery, Queen Mary Hospital, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yabing Guo
- Nanfang Hospital, Guangzhou Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Minshan Chen
- Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhenggang Ren
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianming Xu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, 307 Hospital of People's Liberation Army, Beijing, China
| | - Chia-Jui Yen
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, Tainan City
| | - Zhong-Zhe Lin
- Department of Oncology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei City
| | - Luigi Manenti
- Translational Clinical Oncology, Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, East Hanover, NJ, USA
| | - Yi Gu
- PK Sciences, China Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Shanghai, China
| | - Yongjian Sun
- Translational Clinical Oncology, China Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Shanghai, China
| | - Ralph Tiedt
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Basel, Basel-Stadt, Switzerland
| | - Lu Hao
- Translational Clinical Oncology, China Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenjie Song
- Translational Clinical Oncology, China Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Shanghai, China
| | - Tawesak Tanwandee
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
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Qiao Y, Wang J, Karagoz E, Liang B, Song X, Shang R, Evert K, Xu M, Che L, Evert M, Calvisi DF, Tao J, Wang B, Monga SP, Chen X. Axis inhibition protein 1 (Axin1) Deletion-Induced Hepatocarcinogenesis Requires Intact β-Catenin but Not Notch Cascade in Mice. Hepatology 2019; 70:2003-2017. [PMID: 30737831 PMCID: PMC7206928 DOI: 10.1002/hep.30556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2018] [Accepted: 02/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Inactivating mutations of axis inhibition protein 1 (AXIN1), a negative regulator of the Wnt/β-Catenin cascade, are among the common genetic events in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), affecting approximately 10% of cases. In the present manuscript, we sought to define the genetic crosstalk between Axin1 mutants and Wnt/β-catenin as well as Notch signaling cascades along hepatocarcinogenesis. We discovered that c-MET activation and AXIN1 mutations occur concomitantly in ~3%-5% of human HCC samples. Subsequently, we generated a murine HCC model by means of CRISPR/Cas9-based gene deletion of Axin1 (sgAxin1) in combination with transposon-based expression of c-Met in the mouse liver (c-Met/sgAxin1). Global gene expression analysis of mouse normal liver, HCCs induced by c-Met/sgAxin1, and HCCs induced by c-Met/∆N90-β-Catenin revealed activation of the Wnt/β-Catenin and Notch signaling in c-Met/sgAxin1 HCCs. However, only a few of the canonical Wnt/β-Catenin target genes were induced in c-Met/sgAxin1 HCC when compared with corresponding lesions from c-Met/∆N90-β-Catenin mice. To study whether endogenous β-Catenin is required for c-Met/sgAxin1-driven HCC development, we expressed c-Met/sgAxin1 in liver-specific Ctnnb1 null mice, which completely prevented HCC development. Consistently, in AXIN1 mutant or null human HCC cell lines, silencing of β-Catenin strongly inhibited cell proliferation. In striking contrast, blocking the Notch cascade through expression of either the dominant negative form of the recombinant signal-binding protein for immunoglobulin kappa J region (RBP-J) or the ablation of Notch2 did not significantly affect c-Met/sgAxin1-driven hepatocarcinogenesis. Conclusion: We demonstrated here that loss of Axin1 cooperates with c-Met to induce HCC in mice, in a β-Catenin signaling-dependent but Notch cascade-independent way.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Qiao
- Department of Oncology, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Beijing, China;,Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences and Liver Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA
| | - Jingxiao Wang
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences and Liver Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA;,School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Eylul Karagoz
- Department of Medicine and Liver Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA;,School of Medicine, Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Binyong Liang
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences and Liver Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA;,Hepatic Surgery Center, Department of Surgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xinhua Song
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences and Liver Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA;,Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Food Nutrition and Human Health, College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Runze Shang
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences and Liver Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA;,Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Military Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Katja Evert
- Institute of Pathology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Meng Xu
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences and Liver Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA;,Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Li Che
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences and Liver Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA
| | - Matthias Evert
- Institute of Pathology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Diego F. Calvisi
- Institute of Pathology, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Junyan Tao
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, and Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Bruce Wang
- Department of Medicine and Liver Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA
| | - Satdarshan P. Monga
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, and Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Xin Chen
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences and Liver Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA
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Apoptotic Effects of Mucin1 Aptamer-Conjugated Nanoparticles Containing Docetaxel and c-Met siRNA on SKBR3 Human Metastatic Breast Cancer Cells. Jundishapur J Nat Pharm Prod 2019. [DOI: 10.5812/jjnpp.67023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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41
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Tan L, Chen S, Wei G, Li Y, Liao J, Jin H, Zou Y, Huang M, Peng Z, Guo Y, Peng S, Xu L, Kuang M. Sublethal heat treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma promotes intrahepatic metastasis and stemness in a VEGFR1-dependent manner. Cancer Lett 2019; 460:29-40. [DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2019.05.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2019] [Revised: 05/29/2019] [Accepted: 05/30/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Luongo F, Colonna F, Calapà F, Vitale S, Fiori ME, De Maria R. PTEN Tumor-Suppressor: The Dam of Stemness in Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:E1076. [PMID: 31366089 PMCID: PMC6721423 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11081076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2019] [Revised: 07/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
PTEN is one of the most frequently inactivated tumor suppressor genes in cancer. Loss or variation in PTEN gene/protein levels is commonly observed in a broad spectrum of human cancers, while germline PTEN mutations cause inherited syndromes that lead to increased risk of tumors. PTEN restrains tumorigenesis through different mechanisms ranging from phosphatase-dependent and independent activities, subcellular localization and protein interaction, modulating a broad array of cellular functions including growth, proliferation, survival, DNA repair, and cell motility. The main target of PTEN phosphatase activity is one of the most significant cell growth and pro-survival signaling pathway in cancer: PI3K/AKT/mTOR. Several shreds of evidence shed light on the critical role of PTEN in normal and cancer stem cells (CSCs) homeostasis, with its loss fostering the CSC compartment in both solid and hematologic malignancies. CSCs are responsible for tumor propagation, metastatic spread, resistance to therapy, and relapse. Thus, understanding how alterations of PTEN levels affect CSC hallmarks could be crucial for the development of successful therapeutic approaches. Here, we discuss the most significant findings on PTEN-mediated control of CSC state. We aim to unravel the role of PTEN in the regulation of key mechanisms specific for CSCs, such as self-renewal, quiescence/cell cycle, Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal-Transition (EMT), with a particular focus on PTEN-based therapy resistance mechanisms and their exploitation for novel therapeutic approaches in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Luongo
- Istituto di Patologia Generale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo Francesco Vito 1, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Colonna
- Istituto di Patologia Generale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo Francesco Vito 1, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Federica Calapà
- Istituto di Patologia Generale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo Francesco Vito 1, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Sara Vitale
- Istituto di Patologia Generale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo Francesco Vito 1, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Micol E Fiori
- Department of Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy.
| | - Ruggero De Maria
- Istituto di Patologia Generale, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo Francesco Vito 1, 00168 Rome, Italy.
- Scientific Vice-Direction, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario "A. Gemelli"-I.R.C.C.S., Largo Francesco Vito 1-8, 00168 Rome, Italy.
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Yang Z, Li JJ, Huang ZS. Progress in basic and clinical research of targeted drugs for primary hepatocellular carcinoma. Shijie Huaren Xiaohua Zazhi 2019; 27:450-458. [DOI: 10.11569/wcjd.v27.i7.450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma is one of the most common malignancies of the digestive system. Traditional treatment is not effective for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma. Sorafenib is the first molecule-targeted drug for hepatocellular carcinoma treatment. The emergence of molecule-targeted drugs provided a new choice for patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma. In recent years, thanks to the development of immunotherapy, many new molecule-targeted drugs have been found to significantly improve the prognosis of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. Therefore, targeted drugs have become a research hotspot. This article reviews the progress in basic and clinical research of molecule-targeted drugs for hepatocellular carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhe Yang
- Graduate School of Youjiang Medical College for Nationalities, Baise 533000, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China
| | - Jian-Ji Li
- Graduate School of Youjiang Medical College for Nationalities, Baise 533000, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China
| | - Zan-Song Huang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical College for Nationalities, Guangxi Clinical Research Center for Hepatobiliary Diseases, Baise 533000, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China
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Targeting c-MET by Tivantinib through synergistic activation of JNK/c-jun pathway in cholangiocarcinoma. Cell Death Dis 2019; 10:231. [PMID: 30850583 PMCID: PMC6408560 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-019-1460-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2018] [Revised: 01/17/2019] [Accepted: 02/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Clinical treatment options for human cholangiocarcinoma (CC) are limited. c-MET, a high-affinity receptor for hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), is deregulated in many cancers. Its role in cholangiocarcinogenesis remains unclear. In current study, 23 corresponding tumor- and non-tumor tissues, taken from patients with intrahepatic (iCC) and perihilar cholangiocarcinoma (pCC), who underwent liver resection, were analyzed. The relationship of clinicopathological features and c-MET, as well as c-jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) was evaluated. The anti-tumor effects of Tivantinib, a small-molecule inhibitor with potent activity against the c-MET kinase, was investigated in three human CC cell lines, namely HUCC-T1, TFK-1, and EGI-1. In comparison with the results obtained in non-tumor tissue samples, c-MET was overexpressed in 91.3 % of tumor tissues (p < 0.01). The JNK expression was higher in tumor tissue compared with the corresponding non-tumor tissue sample in 17.4% patients (p < 0.01). The inhibition of aberrant c-MET expression in human CC cell lines was achieved by blocking the phosphorylation of c-MET with Tivantinib. Notable losses in cell viability and colony-forming capability were detected (p < 0.01). Synergistic activation of the JNK/c-jun pathway was demonstrated after Tivantinib treatment. Knockdown of the JNK by siRNA or competitive binding of c-MET receptor by stimulation with HGF-antagonized anti-tumor effects of Tivantinib was observed. Our data suggest that inhibition of c-MET could be a possible alternative approach for the treatment of human CC, for which Tivantinib may an effective inhibitor. The synergistic activation of the JNK/c-jun pathway contributed to the elevated apoptosis in CC cells via treatment with Tivantinib.
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Abudoureyimu M, Zhou H, Zhi Y, Wang T, Feng B, Wang R, Chu X. Recent progress in the emerging role of exosome in hepatocellular carcinoma. Cell Prolif 2019; 52:e12541. [PMID: 30397975 PMCID: PMC6496614 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.12541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2018] [Revised: 08/14/2018] [Accepted: 08/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Exosomes are small membrane vesicles 50-150 nm in diameter released by a variety of cells, which contain miRNAs, mRNAs and proteins with the potential to regulate signalling pathways in recipient cells. Exosomes deliver nucleic acids and proteins to participate in orchestrating cell-cell communication and microenvironment modulation. In this review, we summarize recent progress in our understanding of the role of exosomes in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This review focuses on recent studies on HCC exosomes, considering biogenesis, cargo and their effects on the development and progression of HCC, including chemoresistance, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, angiogenesis, metastasis and immune response. Finally, we discuss the clinical application of exosomes as a therapeutic agent for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mubalake Abudoureyimu
- Department of Medical Oncology, School of Medicine, Jinling HospitalNanjing UniversityNanjingChina
| | - Hao Zhou
- Department of Medical Oncology, Jinling HospitalNanjing Medical UniversityNanjingChina
| | - Yingru Zhi
- Department of Medical Oncology, School of Medicine, Jinling HospitalNanjing UniversityNanjingChina
| | - Ting Wang
- Department of Medical OncologyJinling HospitalNanjingChina
| | - Bing Feng
- Department of Medical Oncology, School of Medicine, Jinling HospitalNanjing UniversityNanjingChina
| | - Rui Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, School of Medicine, Jinling HospitalNanjing UniversityNanjingChina
| | - Xiaoyuan Chu
- Department of Medical Oncology, School of Medicine, Jinling HospitalNanjing UniversityNanjingChina
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Evaluating the landscape of gene cooperativity with receptor tyrosine kinases in liver tumorigenesis using transposon-mediated mutagenesis. J Hepatol 2019; 70:470-482. [PMID: 30529386 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2018.11.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2018] [Revised: 11/20/2018] [Accepted: 11/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS The variety of alterations found in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) makes the identification of functionally relevant genes and their combinatorial actions in tumorigenesis challenging. Deregulation of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) is frequent in HCC, yet little is known about the molecular events that cooperate with RTKs and whether these cooperative events play an active role at the root of liver tumorigenesis. METHODS A forward genetic screen was performed using Sleeping Beauty transposon insertional mutagenesis to accelerate liver tumour formation in a genetic context in which subtly increased MET RTK levels predispose mice to tumorigenesis. Systematic sequencing of tumours identified common transposon insertion sites, thus uncovering putative RTK cooperators for liver cancer. Bioinformatic analyses were applied to transposon outcomes and human HCC datasets. In vitro and in vivo (through xenografts) functional screens were performed to assess the relevance of distinct cooperative modes to the tumorigenic properties conferred by RTKs. RESULTS We identified 275 genes, most of which are altered in patients with HCC. Unexpectedly, these genes are not restricted to a small set of pathway/cellular processes, but cover a large spectrum of cellular functions, including signalling, metabolism, chromatin remodelling, mRNA degradation, proteasome, ubiquitination, cell cycle regulation, and chromatid segregation. We validated 15 tumour suppressor candidates, as shRNA-mediated targeting confers tumorigenicity to RTK-sensitized cells, but not to cells with basal RTK levels. This demonstrates that the context of enhanced RTK levels is essential for their action in tumour initiation. CONCLUSION Our study identifies unanticipated genetic interactions underlying gene cooperativity with RTKs in HCC. Moreover, these results show how subtly increased levels of wild-type RTKs provide a tumour permissive cellular environment allowing a large spectrum of deregulated mechanisms to initiate liver cancer. LAY SUMMARY Receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) are among signals frequently deregulated in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma and their deregulation confers essential biological properties to cancer cells. We have applied a genetic method to randomly mutate large numbers of genes in the context of a mouse model with increased RTK levels, predisposed to develop liver cancer. We identified mechanisms that accelerate tumour formation in cooperation with enhanced RTK levels. The wide array of cellular functions among these cooperators illustrates an extraordinary capability of RTKs to render the liver more vulnerable to additional alterations, by priming cells for tumour initiation.
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Ardelt MA, Fröhlich T, Martini E, Müller M, Kanitz V, Atzberger C, Cantonati P, Meßner M, Posselt L, Lehr T, Wojtyniak J, Ulrich M, Arnold GJ, König L, Parazzoli D, Zahler S, Rothenfußer S, Mayr D, Gerbes A, Scita G, Vollmar AM, Pachmayr J. Inhibition of Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 5: A Strategy to Improve Sorafenib Response in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Therapy. Hepatology 2019; 69:376-393. [PMID: 30033593 PMCID: PMC6590289 DOI: 10.1002/hep.30190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2018] [Accepted: 07/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Therapeutic options for patients with advanced-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are very limited. The only approved first-line treatment is the multi-tyrosine kinase inhibitor sorafenib, which shows low response rates and severe side effects. In particular, the compensatory activation of growth factor receptors leads to chemoresistance and limits the clinical impact of sorafenib. However, combination approaches to improve sorafenib have failed. Here we investigate the inhibition of cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (Cdk5) as a promising combination strategy to improve sorafenib response in HCC. Combination of sorafenib with Cdk5 inhibition (genetic knockdown by short hairpin RNA or CRISPR/Cas9 and pharmacologic inhibition) synergistically impaired HCC progression in vitro and in vivo by inhibiting both tumor cell proliferation and migration. Importantly, these effects were mediated by a mechanism for Cdk5: A liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry-based proteomic approach revealed that Cdk5 inhibition interferes with intracellular trafficking, a process crucial for cellular homeostasis and growth factor receptor signaling. Cdk5 inhibition resulted in an accumulation of enlarged vesicles and respective cargos in the perinuclear region, considerably impairing the extent and quality of growth factor receptor signaling. Thereby, Cdk5 inhibition offers a comprehensive approach to globally disturb growth factor receptor signaling that is superior to specific inhibition of individual growth factor receptors. Conclusion: Cdk5 inhibition represents an effective approach to improve sorafenib response and to prevent sorafenib treatment escape in HCC. Notably, Cdk5 is an addressable target frequently overexpressed in HCC, and with Dinaciclib, a clinically tested Cdk5 inhibitor is readily available. Thus, our study provides evidence for clinically evaluating the combination of sorafenib and Dinaciclib to improve the therapeutic situation for patients with advanced-stage HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maximilian A. Ardelt
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical BiologyLMU MunichMunichGermany,Institute of PharmacyParacelsus Medical UniversitySalzburgAustria
| | - Thomas Fröhlich
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis, LAFUGA, Gene CentreUniversity of MunichMunichGermany
| | - Emanuele Martini
- IFOM‐FIRC Institute of Molecular OncologyDepartment of Oncology and Hemato‐OncologyUniversity of MilanMilanItalyMilanItaly
| | - Martin Müller
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical BiologyLMU MunichMunichGermany
| | - Veronika Kanitz
- Institute of PathologyLudwig Maximilians University of MunichMunichGermany
| | - Carina Atzberger
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical BiologyLMU MunichMunichGermany
| | - Petra Cantonati
- Institute of PharmacyParacelsus Medical UniversitySalzburgAustria
| | - Martina Meßner
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical BiologyLMU MunichMunichGermany,Institute of PharmacyParacelsus Medical UniversitySalzburgAustria
| | - Laura Posselt
- Center of Integrated Protein Science Munich (CIPS‐M) and Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Internal Medicine IVKlinikum der Universität MünchenMunichGermany
| | - Thorsten Lehr
- Clinical PharmacySaarland UniversitySaarbrückenGermany
| | | | - Melanie Ulrich
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical BiologyLMU MunichMunichGermany
| | - Georg J. Arnold
- Laboratory for Functional Genome Analysis, LAFUGA, Gene CentreUniversity of MunichMunichGermany
| | - Lars König
- Center of Integrated Protein Science Munich (CIPS‐M) and Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Internal Medicine IVKlinikum der Universität MünchenMunichGermany
| | - Dario Parazzoli
- IFOM‐FIRC Institute of Molecular OncologyDepartment of Oncology and Hemato‐OncologyUniversity of MilanMilanItalyMilanItaly
| | - Stefan Zahler
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical BiologyLMU MunichMunichGermany
| | - Simon Rothenfußer
- Center of Integrated Protein Science Munich (CIPS‐M) and Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Internal Medicine IVKlinikum der Universität MünchenMunichGermany
| | - Doris Mayr
- Institute of PathologyLudwig Maximilians University of MunichMunichGermany
| | - Alexander Gerbes
- Department of Medicine 2, Liver Center MunichUniversity Hospital, LMU MunichMunichGermany
| | - Giorgio Scita
- IFOM‐FIRC Institute of Molecular OncologyDepartment of Oncology and Hemato‐OncologyUniversity of MilanMilanItalyMilanItaly
| | | | - Johanna Pachmayr
- Department of Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical BiologyLMU MunichMunichGermany,Institute of PharmacyParacelsus Medical UniversitySalzburgAustria
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Cancer-associated fibroblasts promote the stemness of CD24 + liver cells via paracrine signaling. J Mol Med (Berl) 2018; 97:243-255. [PMID: 30564864 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-018-1731-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2018] [Revised: 11/12/2018] [Accepted: 12/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs), which support tumor progress in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) developed in fibrotic or cirrhotic livers, are regulated by the tumor microenvironment. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are the major component of the tumor stroma in HCC; however, the mechanisms by which CAFs contribute to stemness maintenance remain largely unknown. Here, we found that the expression of CD24 was high in HCC tissues compared with adjacent normal liver tissues, and positively correlated with the poor prognosis and α-SMA expression in CAFs. CD24+ cells isolated from HCC cell lines exhibited stemness properties of self-renewal, chemotherapy resistance, metastasis, and tumorigenicity in NOD/SCID mice. Moreover, CAF-derived HGF and IL6 enhanced the stemness properties of CD24+ cells via activating STAT3 Tyr705 phosphorylation. Blockade of HGF/c-Met or IL6/IL6R signaling significantly abolished the effect of CAFs on stemness properties, which compromised the activation of STAT3 pathway in CD24+ cells. Meanwhile, knockdown of STAT3 in CD24+ cells notably attenuated CAF-induced stemness characteristics of CD24+ cells. Furthermore, in HCC patients, higher expression of phospho-STAT3 was also demonstrated to be positively correlated with poor clinical outcomes. In summary, HGF and IL6 secreted by CAFs promoted the stemness properties of CD24+ cells through the phosphorylation of STAT3 signaling, and targeting the paracrine pathways may provide a new therapeutic strategy for HCC. KEY MESSAGES: CD24, identified as a marker for HCC CSCs, was positively correlated with the poor prognosis and α-SMA expression in CAFs. CAFs promoted self-renewal, chemotherapy resistance, metastasis, and tumorigenicity of CD24+ HCC cells. HGF and IL6 secreted by CAFs promoted the stemness properties of CD24+ HCC cells through the phosphorylation of STAT3.
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Zhang X, Zhuang H, Han F, Shao X, Liu Y, Ma X, Wang Z, Qiang Z, Li Y. Sp1-regulated transcription of RasGRP1 promotes hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) proliferation. Liver Int 2018; 38:2006-2017. [PMID: 29655291 DOI: 10.1111/liv.13757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2017] [Accepted: 03/30/2018] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS The role of Ras guanine nucleotide-releasing protein 1 (RasGRP1) in tumourigenesis has been a subject of debate, and its functions and clinical significance in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remain unknown. Here, we evaluated the expression of RasGRP1 in HCC and determined how it contributes to HCC cell proliferation. METHODS RasGRP1 expression was measured by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and Western blotting of 24 paired HCC tissues and para-tumour tissues. RasGRP1 expression was confirmed by immunohistochemical analysis of a tissue microarray from 1 independent cohort. Overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method, and risk factors that contributed to OS or DFS were identified using Cox regression analysis. The biologic relevance of RasGRP1 was examined by small interfering RNAs and an exogenous plasmid construct. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays were performed to examine the binding of Sp1 to the RasGRP1 promoter. RESULTS Increased RasGRP1 expression was associated with tumour size (P = .004), tumour-node-metastasis stage (P = .032), and Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer stage (P = .002). RasGRP1 overexpression was an independent prognostic factor in HCC patients. RasGRP1 downregulation inhibited cell proliferation, whereas RasGRP1 overexpression promoted cell proliferation. Moreover, specificity protein 1 bound to the RasGRP1 promoter and promoted RasGRP1 transcription. In addition, RasGRP1 overexpression enhanced activation of the c-Raf pathway. CONCLUSIONS RasGRP1 is upregulated in HCC and promotes HCC cell proliferation. Thus, RasGRP1 may be a novel therapeutic target for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinran Zhang
- Department of Pathogen Biology & Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Hao Zhuang
- Department of Pathogen Biology & Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
- Department of Hepatic Biliary Pancreatic Surgery, Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Feng Han
- Department of Hepatic Biliary Pancreatic Surgery, Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xiaowen Shao
- Department of Pathogen Biology & Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yun Liu
- Department of Pathogen Biology & Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xuda Ma
- Department of Pathogen Biology & Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Zun Wang
- Department of Pathogen Biology & Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhaoyan Qiang
- Department of Pathogen Biology & Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yongmei Li
- Department of Pathogen Biology & Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
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Li LM, Liu H, Liu XH, Hu HB, Liu SM. Clinical significance of exosomal miRNAs and proteins in three human cancers with high mortality in China. Oncol Lett 2018; 17:11-22. [PMID: 30655733 PMCID: PMC6313090 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2018.9631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2018] [Accepted: 08/30/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is the second leading cause of mortality worldwide. More importantly, the mortality rates for cancer are increasing. In China, lung cancer, liver cancer and gastric cancer are the top three leading causes of mortality in males, whereas lung cancer, gastric cancer and liver cancer are ranked the top three causes of mortality in females. Exosomes are extracellular vesicles that are produced and released by many different cells; these vesicles have a size range between 30 and 100 nm in diameter, and contain a lipid bilayer. Exosomes exist in various bodily fluids, contain plentiful amounts of nucleic acids and proteins, and shuttle these materials between cells to mediate the development of cancers. The present review summarizes the composition of exosomes and methods for their isolation and then intensively highlights the latest findings on the contributions of exosomal microRNAs (miRNAs) and proteins to lung cancer, liver cancer and gastric cancer. Taken together, exosomal miRNAs and proteins may be used as noninvasive, novel biomarkers for cancer diagnosis, prognosis or precision treatment owing to their ability to promote tumor progression and metastasis, and their ability to regulate the immune response and tumor cell sensitivity to chemotherapy drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Man Li
- Center for Gene Diagnosis, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430071, P.R. China
| | - Huan Liu
- Department of Pathology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430071, P.R. China
| | - Xing-Hui Liu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Gongli Hospital, The Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200135, P.R. China
| | - Hong-Bin Hu
- Department of Blood Transfusion, Wuhan Children's Hospital (Wuhan Maternal and Child Healthcare Hospital), Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430016, P.R. China
| | - Song-Mei Liu
- Center for Gene Diagnosis, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430071, P.R. China
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