1
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Khoshkhabar R, Yazdani M, Hoda Alavizadeh S, Saberi Z, Arabi L, Reza Jaafari M. Chemo-immunotherapy by nanoliposomal epacadostat and docetaxel combination to IDO1 inhibition and tumor microenvironment suppression. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 137:112437. [PMID: 38870880 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
The over-activation of tryptophan (Trp) metabolism to kynurenine (Kyn) catalyzed by Indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase-1 (IDO1) enzyme, is one of the main metabolic pathways involved in tumor microenvironment (TME) immune escape and cancer treatment failure. The most efficient of IDO1 inhibitors is Epacadostat (EPA). Since monotherapy with single-agent IDO1 inhibitor regimen has led to an insufficient anti-tumor activity, we examined the efficacy of simultaneous treatment by Liposomal epacadostat (Lip-EPA) as a potent IDO inhibitor, in combination with docetaxel (DTX) as a complement immunogenic cell death (ICD) agent against B16F10 model. First, the in vitro combination index (CI) of epacadostat (EPA) and DTX was investigated by using the unified theory. Then, the in vivo efficacy of the combination therapy was assessed. Results indicated the synergestic cytotoxic effect of the combination on B16F10 compared to normal fibroblast cells (NIH). The immune profiling demonstrated a significant increase in the percentage of infiltrated T lymphocytes and IFN-γ release, a significant decrease in the percentage of regulatory T cells (Treg) population and the subsequent low levels of IL-10 generation in mice treated with Lip-EPA + DTX. Further, a significant tumor growth delay (TGD = 69.15 %) and an increased life span (ILS > 47.83 %) was observed with the combination strategy. Histopathology analysis revealed a remarkable increase in the Trp concentration following combination treatment, while Kyn levels significantly decreased. Results showed that the nano-liposomal form of IDO1 inhibitor in combination with chemotherapy could significantly improve the imunity response and dominate the tumor immuno-suppressive micro-environment, which merits further investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahimeh Khoshkhabar
- Nanotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mona Yazdani
- Nanotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Seyedeh Hoda Alavizadeh
- Nanotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
| | - Zahra Saberi
- Nanotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Leila Arabi
- Nanotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mahmoud Reza Jaafari
- Nanotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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2
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de Santana MR, dos Santos YB, Santos KS, Santos Junior MC, Victor MM, Ramos GDS, do Nascimento RP, Costa SL. Differential Interactions of Flavonoids with the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor In Silico and Their Impact on Receptor Activity In Vitro. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:980. [PMID: 39204085 PMCID: PMC11356971 DOI: 10.3390/ph17080980] [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: 06/19/2024] [Revised: 07/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 09/03/2024] Open
Abstract
The molecular mechanisms underlying the observed anticancer effects of flavonoids remain unclear. Increasing evidence shows that the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) plays a crucial role in neoplastic disease progression, establishing it as a potential drug target. This study evaluated the potential of hydroxy flavonoids, known for their anticancer properties, to interact with AHR, both in silico and in vitro, aiming to understand the mechanisms of action and identify selective AHR modulators. A PAS-B domain homology model was constructed to evaluate in silico interactions of chrysin, naringenin, quercetin apigenin and agathisflavone. The EROD activity assay measured the effects of flavonoids on AHR's activity in human breast cancer cells (MCF7). Simulations showed that chrysin, apigenin, naringenin, and quercetin have the highest AHR binding affinity scores (-13.14 to -15.31), while agathisflavone showed low scores (-0.57 and -5.14). All tested flavonoids had the potential to inhibit AHR activity in a dose-dependent manner in the presence of an agonist (TCDD) in vitro. This study elucidates the distinct modulatory effects of flavonoids on AHR, emphasizing naringenin's newly described antagonistic potential. It underscores the importance of understanding flavonoid's molecular mechanisms, which is crucial for developing novel cancer therapies based on these molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monique Reis de Santana
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Cellular Biology, Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador 40231-300, Brazil; (M.R.d.S.); (R.P.d.N.)
| | - Ylanna Bonfim dos Santos
- Molecular Modeling Laboratory, Department of Health, State University of Feira de Santana, Feira de Santana 44036-900, Brazil; (Y.B.d.S.); (K.S.S.); (M.C.S.J.)
| | - Késsia Souza Santos
- Molecular Modeling Laboratory, Department of Health, State University of Feira de Santana, Feira de Santana 44036-900, Brazil; (Y.B.d.S.); (K.S.S.); (M.C.S.J.)
| | - Manoelito Coelho Santos Junior
- Molecular Modeling Laboratory, Department of Health, State University of Feira de Santana, Feira de Santana 44036-900, Brazil; (Y.B.d.S.); (K.S.S.); (M.C.S.J.)
| | - Mauricio Moraes Victor
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador 40231-300, Brazil; (M.M.V.); (G.d.S.R.)
| | - Gabriel dos Santos Ramos
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador 40231-300, Brazil; (M.M.V.); (G.d.S.R.)
| | - Ravena Pereira do Nascimento
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Cellular Biology, Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador 40231-300, Brazil; (M.R.d.S.); (R.P.d.N.)
| | - Silvia Lima Costa
- Laboratory of Neurochemistry and Cellular Biology, Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador 40231-300, Brazil; (M.R.d.S.); (R.P.d.N.)
- National Institute of Translational Neuroscience (INNT), Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil
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3
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Wills A, Dibbern M, Frierson HF, Raghavan SS. Metastatic Undifferentiated Melanoma Mimicking a Primary Bone Tumor: A Potential Diagnostic Pitfall. Am J Dermatopathol 2024; 46:170-172. [PMID: 38170737 DOI: 10.1097/dad.0000000000002622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Undifferentiated melanoma (UM) is defined by the loss of classic morphologic and immunohistochemical melanocytic markers. Reports in the literature are rare and show that UM usually occurs as a metastasis in the setting of a known primary cutaneous melanoma. The most common mutations in UM include those involving BRAF , NRAS , and KIT , which are almost invariably present in the parent melanoma. In this study, we report a case of a primary sinonasal melanoma with metastatic UM presenting with osteoclast-like giant cells and resembling a primary bone tumor. The retention of an unusual KRAS mutation in UM that was also present in the primary lesion provided critical information for the diagnosis. Our report highlights the importance of considering mutational analysis to identify undifferentiated melanomas in patients with metastatic tumors which do not have the typical histopathologic and immunohistochemical features of melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abby Wills
- Department of Dermatology, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, VA; and
| | - Megan Dibbern
- Department of Pathology, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, VA
| | - Henry F Frierson
- Department of Pathology, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, VA
| | - Shyam S Raghavan
- Department of Pathology, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, VA
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4
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Li Z, Li S, Xing Z, Gu Q, Du R, Jiang J, Yuan X, Zhang X, Chen X, Xue N, Zhang P, Jin J, Yang Y. Discovery of Natural Ah Receptor Antagonists from Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge and Synthesis of Analogs for Tumor Immunotherapy. J Med Chem 2024; 67:1243-1261. [PMID: 38176026 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
IDO/TDO/Kyn/AhR signaling plays a crucial role in regulating innate and adaptive immunity, and targeting Ah receptor (AhR) inhibition can potentially redirect immune cells toward an antitumoral phenotype. Therefore, AhR is an attractive drug target for novel small molecule cancer immunotherapies. In this study, natural products tanshinolic A-D (1-4), the first adducts composed of ortho-naphthoquinone-type tanshinone and phenolic acid featuring a unique 1,4-benzodioxan hemiacetal structure, were isolated and characterized from the roots of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge. Luciferase reporter gene assay revealed that these adducts exhibited significant AhR inhibitory activity. A linear strategy was developed to construct a cis-3,4-disubstituted 1,4-benzodioxan hemiacetal structure. Encouragingly, in both in vitro and in vivo experiments, (±)-13e demonstrated the ability to inhibit tumor cell proliferation, promote INF-γ secretion in CD8+ T cells, and inhibit PD-1/PD-L1 signal transduction, which could exert tumor inhibition properties by inhibiting AhR activity, positioning it as a promising candidate for tumor immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenyuan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Shuying Li
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Zeyu Xing
- Department of Breast Cancer, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Quanchang Gu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Rongrong Du
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Jianshuang Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Xiang Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Xu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Xiaoguang Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Nina Xue
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Peicheng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Jing Jin
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Yanan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substances and Functions of Natural Medicines, Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
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5
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Opitz CA, Holfelder P, Prentzell MT, Trump S. The complex biology of aryl hydrocarbon receptor activation in cancer and beyond. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 216:115798. [PMID: 37696456 PMCID: PMC10570930 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) signaling pathway is a complex regulatory network that plays a critical role in various biological processes, including cellular metabolism, development, and immune responses. The complexity of AHR signaling arises from multiple factors, including the diverse ligands that activate the receptor, the expression level of AHR itself, and its interaction with the AHR nuclear translocator (ARNT). Additionally, the AHR crosstalks with the AHR repressor (AHRR) or other transcription factors and signaling pathways and it can also mediate non-genomic effects. Finally, posttranslational modifications of the AHR and its interaction partners, epigenetic regulation of AHR and its target genes, as well as AHR-mediated induction of enzymes that degrade AHR-activating ligands may contribute to the context-specificity of AHR activation. Understanding the complexity of AHR signaling is crucial for deciphering its physiological and pathological roles and developing therapeutic strategies targeting this pathway. Ongoing research continues to unravel the intricacies of AHR signaling, shedding light on the regulatory mechanisms controlling its diverse functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christiane A Opitz
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Division of Metabolic Crosstalk in Cancer and the German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), DKFZ Core Center Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Neurology Clinic and National Center for Tumor Diseases, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Pauline Holfelder
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Division of Metabolic Crosstalk in Cancer and the German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), DKFZ Core Center Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Faculty of Bioscience, Heidelberg University, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Mirja Tamara Prentzell
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Division of Metabolic Crosstalk in Cancer and the German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), DKFZ Core Center Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Faculty of Bioscience, Heidelberg University, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Saskia Trump
- Molecular Epidemiology Unit, Berlin Institute of Health at Charité and the German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Berlin, a partnership between DKFZ and Charité -Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
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6
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Farooqi AA, Rakhmetova V, Kapanova G, Tanbayeva G, Mussakhanova A, Abdykulova A, Ryskulova AG. Role of Ubiquitination and Epigenetics in the Regulation of AhR Signaling in Carcinogenesis and Metastasis: "Albatross around the Neck" or "Blessing in Disguise". Cells 2023; 12:2382. [PMID: 37830596 PMCID: PMC10571945 DOI: 10.3390/cells12192382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The molecular mechanisms and signal transduction cascades evoked by the activation of aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) are becoming increasingly understandable. AhR is a ligand-activated transcriptional factor that integrates environmental, dietary and metabolic cues for the pleiotropic regulation of a wide variety of mechanisms. AhR mediates transcriptional programming in a ligand-specific, context-specific and cell-type-specific manner. Pioneering cutting-edge research works have provided fascinating new insights into the mechanistic role of AhR-driven downstream signaling in a wide variety of cancers. AhR ligands derived from food, environmental contaminants and intestinal microbiota strategically activated AhR signaling and regulated multiple stages of cancer. Although AhR has classically been viewed and characterized as a ligand-regulated transcriptional factor, its role as a ubiquitin ligase is fascinating. Accordingly, recent evidence has paradigmatically shifted our understanding and urged researchers to drill down deep into these novel and clinically valuable facets of AhR biology. Our rapidly increasing realization related to AhR-mediated regulation of the ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation of different proteins has started to scratch the surface of intriguing mechanisms. Furthermore, AhR and epigenome dynamics have shown previously unprecedented complexity during multiple stages of cancer progression. AhR not only transcriptionally regulated epigenetic-associated molecules, but also worked with epigenetic-modifying enzymes during cancer progression. In this review, we have summarized the findings obtained not only from cell-culture studies, but also from animal models. Different clinical trials are currently being conducted using AhR inhibitors and PD-1 inhibitors (Pembrolizumab and nivolumab), which confirm the linchpin role of AhR-related mechanistic details in cancer progression. Therefore, further studies are required to develop a better comprehension of the many-sided and "diametrically opposed" roles of AhR in the regulation of carcinogenesis and metastatic spread of cancer cells to the secondary organs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ammad Ahmad Farooqi
- Institute of Biomedical and Genetic Engineering (IBGE), Islamabad 54000, Pakistan
| | - Venera Rakhmetova
- Department of Internal Diseases, Medical University of Astana, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan
| | - Gulnara Kapanova
- Faculty of Medicine and healthcare, Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, 71 Al-Farabi Ave, Almaty 050040, Kazakhstan (G.T.)
- Scientific Center of Anti-Infectious Drugs, 75 Al-Farabi Ave, Almaty 050040, Kazakhstan
| | - Gulnur Tanbayeva
- Faculty of Medicine and healthcare, Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, 71 Al-Farabi Ave, Almaty 050040, Kazakhstan (G.T.)
| | - Akmaral Mussakhanova
- Department of Public Health and Management, Astana Medical University, Astana 010000, Kazakhstan;
| | - Akmaral Abdykulova
- Department of General Medical Practice, General Medicine Faculty, Asfendiyarov Kazakh National Medical University, Almaty 050000, Kazakhstan;
| | - Alma-Gul Ryskulova
- Department of Public Health and Social Sciences, Kazakhstan Medical University “KSPH”, Utenos Str. 19A, Almaty 050060, Kazakhstan;
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7
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Kruse B, Buzzai AC, Shridhar N, Braun AD, Gellert S, Knauth K, Pozniak J, Peters J, Dittmann P, Mengoni M, van der Sluis TC, Höhn S, Antoranz A, Krone A, Fu Y, Yu D, Essand M, Geffers R, Mougiakakos D, Kahlfuß S, Kashkar H, Gaffal E, Bosisio FM, Bechter O, Rambow F, Marine JC, Kastenmüller W, Müller AJ, Tüting T. CD4 + T cell-induced inflammatory cell death controls immune-evasive tumours. Nature 2023; 618:1033-1040. [PMID: 37316667 PMCID: PMC10307640 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-023-06199-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 72.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Most clinically applied cancer immunotherapies rely on the ability of CD8+ cytolytic T cells to directly recognize and kill tumour cells1-3. These strategies are limited by the emergence of major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-deficient tumour cells and the formation of an immunosuppressive tumour microenvironment4-6. The ability of CD4+ effector cells to contribute to antitumour immunity independently of CD8+ T cells is increasingly recognized, but strategies to unleash their full potential remain to be identified7-10. Here, we describe a mechanism whereby a small number of CD4+ T cells is sufficient to eradicate MHC-deficient tumours that escape direct CD8+ T cell targeting. The CD4+ effector T cells preferentially cluster at tumour invasive margins where they interact with MHC-II+CD11c+ antigen-presenting cells. We show that T helper type 1 cell-directed CD4+ T cells and innate immune stimulation reprogramme the tumour-associated myeloid cell network towards interferon-activated antigen-presenting and iNOS-expressing tumouricidal effector phenotypes. Together, CD4+ T cells and tumouricidal myeloid cells orchestrate the induction of remote inflammatory cell death that indirectly eradicates interferon-unresponsive and MHC-deficient tumours. These results warrant the clinical exploitation of this ability of CD4+ T cells and innate immune stimulators in a strategy to complement the direct cytolytic activity of CD8+ T cells and natural killer cells and advance cancer immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bastian Kruse
- Laboratory of Experimental Dermatology, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital and Health Campus Immunology Infectiology and Inflammation (GC-I3), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Anthony C Buzzai
- Laboratory of Experimental Dermatology, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital and Health Campus Immunology Infectiology and Inflammation (GC-I3), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Naveen Shridhar
- Laboratory of Experimental Dermatology, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital and Health Campus Immunology Infectiology and Inflammation (GC-I3), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Andreas D Braun
- Laboratory of Experimental Dermatology, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital and Health Campus Immunology Infectiology and Inflammation (GC-I3), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Susan Gellert
- Laboratory of Experimental Dermatology, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital and Health Campus Immunology Infectiology and Inflammation (GC-I3), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Kristin Knauth
- Laboratory of Experimental Dermatology, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital and Health Campus Immunology Infectiology and Inflammation (GC-I3), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Joanna Pozniak
- Laboratory for Molecular Cancer Biology, Center for Cancer Biology, VIB, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory for Molecular Cancer Biology, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Johannes Peters
- Laboratory of Experimental Dermatology, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital and Health Campus Immunology Infectiology and Inflammation (GC-I3), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Paulina Dittmann
- Laboratory of Experimental Dermatology, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital and Health Campus Immunology Infectiology and Inflammation (GC-I3), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Miriam Mengoni
- Laboratory of Experimental Dermatology, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital and Health Campus Immunology Infectiology and Inflammation (GC-I3), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Tetje Cornelia van der Sluis
- Laboratory of Experimental Dermatology, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital and Health Campus Immunology Infectiology and Inflammation (GC-I3), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Simon Höhn
- Laboratory of Experimental Dermatology, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital and Health Campus Immunology Infectiology and Inflammation (GC-I3), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Asier Antoranz
- Translational Cell and Tissue Research, Department of Imaging and Pathology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Anna Krone
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical Immunology, Health Campus Immunology Infectiology and Inflammation (GC-I3), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Yan Fu
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical Immunology, Health Campus Immunology Infectiology and Inflammation (GC-I3), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Di Yu
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Magnus Essand
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Robert Geffers
- Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Brunswick, Germany
| | - Dimitrios Mougiakakos
- Department of Hematology, University Hospital and Health Campus Immunology Infectiology and Inflammation (GC-I3), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Sascha Kahlfuß
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical Immunology, Health Campus Immunology Infectiology and Inflammation (GC-I3), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Hamid Kashkar
- Institute for Molecular Immunology, Centre for Molecular Medicine Cologne and Cologne Excellence Cluster on Cellular Stress Responses in Ageing-Associated Diseases, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Evelyn Gaffal
- Laboratory of Experimental Dermatology, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital and Health Campus Immunology Infectiology and Inflammation (GC-I3), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | | | - Oliver Bechter
- Department of General Medical Oncology, UZ Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Florian Rambow
- Department of Applied Computational Cancer Research, Institute for AI in Medicine (IKIM), University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
- University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Jean-Christophe Marine
- Laboratory for Molecular Cancer Biology, Center for Cancer Biology, VIB, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory for Molecular Cancer Biology, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Andreas J Müller
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical Immunology, Health Campus Immunology Infectiology and Inflammation (GC-I3), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany.
| | - Thomas Tüting
- Laboratory of Experimental Dermatology, Department of Dermatology, University Hospital and Health Campus Immunology Infectiology and Inflammation (GC-I3), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany.
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Walczak K, Szalast K, Krasowska D. The biological interactions between kynurenine and AhR in melanocytes: in vitro studies. Amino Acids 2023:10.1007/s00726-023-03279-0. [PMID: 37245164 PMCID: PMC10371890 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-023-03279-0] [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: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Kynurenine (KYN), a tryptophan metabolite, is endogenously produced by the skin cells and is present in human sweat. The aim of this study was to determine the molecular mechanism of the antiproliferative activity of KYN on human epidermal melanocytes. KYN significantly inhibited the metabolic activity of HEMa cells by decreasing cyclin D1 and cyclin-dependent kinase 4 (CDK4) levels via the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) pathway. The results suggested that KYN might be involved in the regulation of physiological and pathological processes mediated by melanocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Walczak
- Laboratory for Immunology of Skin Diseases, Chair and Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Paediatric Dermatology, Medical University of Lublin, Radziwillowska 11, 20-080, Lublin, Poland.
| | - Karolina Szalast
- Department of Pharmacology, Chair of Pharmacology and Biology, Medical University of Lublin, Radziwillowska 11, 20-080, Lublin, Poland
| | - Dorota Krasowska
- Chair and Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Paediatric Dermatology, Medical University of Lublin, Staszica 11Ł, 20-081, Lublin, Poland
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9
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Matsukawa T, Doi T, Obayashi K, Sumida K, Fujimoto N, Endo M. ANGPTL8 links inflammation and poor differentiation, which are characteristics of malignant renal cell carcinoma. Cancer Sci 2022; 114:1410-1422. [PMID: 36529524 PMCID: PMC10067409 DOI: 10.1111/cas.15700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammation is observed in many tumors, which affects metastasis, infiltration, and immune escape and causes poor differentiation of the cancer cells. However, the molecular basis underlying the relationship between inflammation and poor differentiation in tumors has not been identified. In this study, we demonstrate that angiopoietin-like protein-8 (ANGPTL8), which is induced by stress stimuli such as inflammation, is involved in the maintenance of the undifferentiated state of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) cells. ANGPTL8 is also involved in the production of chemokines that attract immune suppressor cells to the tumor microenvironment. ANGPTL8 sustains the continuous production of chemokines by activating the NF-κB signaling pathway and maintains the undifferentiated state of ccRCC cells. Finally, ANGPTL8 is induced by STAT3 signaling, which is activated by immune cells in the tumor microenvironment. These results support a role for ANGPTL8 in determining the properties of ccRCC by hampering tumor cell differentiation and establishing the tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takuo Matsukawa
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan.,Department of Urology, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Tomomitsu Doi
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - Kunie Obayashi
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Sumida
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - Naohiro Fujimoto
- Department of Urology, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Motoyoshi Endo
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
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10
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Sirokay J, Mauch C. [Melanoma microenvironment-impact of modern therapies]. DERMATOLOGIE (HEIDELBERG, GERMANY) 2022; 73:907-914. [PMID: 36394589 DOI: 10.1007/s00105-022-05078-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A considerable proportion of patients with advanced melanoma succumb to metastatic disease despite the initial success of modern therapies. OBJECTIVES An overview of the melanoma tumor microenvironment with special focus on approved therapies and new innovative strategies is given. METHODS Current clinical trials and scientific insights concerning the impact of the tumor microenvironment on progression and therapy of advanced melanoma are reviewed and discussed. RESULTS The tumor microenvironment with its manifold components and interactions plays a major role in the treatment of malignant melanoma. CONCLUSION Innovative new strategies that target an immunosuppressive microenvironment may improve the therapeutic efficacy of current treatment of advanced melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith Sirokay
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Dermatologie und Allergologie, Universitätsklinikum Bonn, Gebäude 11, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Deutschland.
| | - Cornelia Mauch
- Klinik für Dermatologie und Venerologie, Universitätsklinikum Köln, Köln, Deutschland
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11
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Ten Years of CRISPRing Cancers In Vitro. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14235746. [PMID: 36497228 PMCID: PMC9738354 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14235746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell lines have always constituted a good investigation tool for cancer research, allowing scientists to understand the basic mechanisms underlying the complex network of phenomena peculiar to the transforming path from a healthy to cancerous cell. The introduction of CRISPR in everyday laboratory activity and its relative affordability greatly expanded the bench lab weaponry in the daily attempt to better understand tumor biology with the final aim to mitigate cancer's impact in our lives. In this review, we aim to report how this genome editing technique affected in the in vitro modeling of different aspects of tumor biology, its several declinations, and analyze the advantages and drawbacks of each of them.
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12
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Guarnieri T. Hypothesis: Emerging Roles for Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor in Orchestrating CoV-2-Related Inflammation. Cells 2022; 11:cells11040648. [PMID: 35203299 PMCID: PMC8869960 DOI: 10.3390/cells11040648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the pathogenic agent of Coronavirus-Induced Disease-2019 (COVID-19), a multi-organ syndrome which primarily targets the respiratory system. In this review, considering the large amount of data pointing out the role of the Aryl hydrocarbon Receptor (AhR) in the inflammatory response and in the modulation of innate and adaptive immunity, we describe some mechanisms that strongly suggest its involvement in the management of COVID-19′s inflammatory framework. It regulates both the expression of Angiotensin Converting Enzyme-2 (ACE-2) and its stabilizing partner, the Broad neutral Amino acid Transporter 1 (B0AT1). It induces Indolamine 2,3 dioxygenase (IDO-1), the enzyme which, starting from Tryptophan (Trp), produces Kynurenine (Kyn, Beta-Anthraniloyl-L-Alanine). The accumulation of Kyn and the depletion of Trp arrest T cell growth and induce apoptosis, setting up an immune-tolerant condition, whereas AhR and interferon type I (IFN-I) build a mutual inhibitory loop that also involves NF-kB and limits the innate response. AhR/Kyn binding boosts the production of Interleukin-6 (IL-6), thus reinforcing the inflammatory state and counteracting the IDO-dependent immune tolerance in the later stage of COVID-19. Taken together, these data depict a framework where sufficient clues suggest the possible participation of AhR in the management of COVID-19 inflammation, thus indicating an additional therapeutic target for this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiziana Guarnieri
- Cell Physiology Laboratory, Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences (BiGeA), Alma Mater Studiorum Università di Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy;
- Interuniversity Consortium “Istituto Nazionale Biostrutture e Biosistemi” (INBB–Biostructures and Biosystems National Institute), 00136 Rome, Italy
- Interdepartmental Center for Industrial Research in Life Sciences and Technologies, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
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13
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Wohlfeil SA, Häfele V, Dietsch B, Weller C, Sticht C, Jauch AS, Winkler M, Schmid CD, Irkens AL, Olsavszky A, Schledzewski K, Reiners-Koch PS, Goerdt S, Géraud C. Angiogenic and molecular diversity determine hepatic melanoma metastasis and response to anti-angiogenic treatment. J Transl Med 2022; 20:62. [PMID: 35109875 PMCID: PMC8812268 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-022-03255-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cutaneous melanoma exhibits heterogeneous metastatic patterns and prognosis. In this regard, liver metastasis, which is detected in ~ 10-20% of stage 4 patients, came to the fore of melanoma research, as it recently evolved as decisive indicator of treatment resistance to immune checkpoint inhibition. METHODS Hepatic metastases were induced by intrasplenic injection of five different murine melanoma cell lines. The efficiencies of hepatic colonization, morphologic patterns, gene expression profiles and degree of vascularization were analyzed and Sorafenib was applied as anti-angiogenic treatment. RESULTS WT31 melanoma showed the highest efficiency of hepatic colonization, while intermediate efficiencies were observed for B16F10 and RET, and low efficiencies for D4M and HCmel12. RNAseq-based gene expression profiles of high and intermediate metastatic melanomas in comparison to low metastatic melanomas indicated that this efficiency predominantly associates with gene clusters involved in cell migration and angiogenesis. Indeed, heterogeneous vascularization patterns were found in the five models. Although the degree of vascularization of WT31 and B16F10 metastases differed, both showed a strong response to Sorafenib with a successful abrogation of the vascularization. CONCLUSION Our data indicate that molecular heterogeneity of melanomas can be associated with phenotypic and prognostic features of hepatic metastasis paving the way for organ-specific anti-angiogenic therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian A Wohlfeil
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology, and Allergology, University Medical Center and Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, and Center of Excellence in Dermatology, 68135, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Verena Häfele
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology, and Allergology, University Medical Center and Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, and Center of Excellence in Dermatology, 68135, Mannheim, Germany.,Section of Clinical and Molecular Dermatology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Bianca Dietsch
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology, and Allergology, University Medical Center and Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, and Center of Excellence in Dermatology, 68135, Mannheim, Germany.,Section of Clinical and Molecular Dermatology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Céline Weller
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology, and Allergology, University Medical Center and Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, and Center of Excellence in Dermatology, 68135, Mannheim, Germany.,Section of Clinical and Molecular Dermatology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Carsten Sticht
- NGS Core Facility, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Anna Sophia Jauch
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology, and Allergology, University Medical Center and Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, and Center of Excellence in Dermatology, 68135, Mannheim, Germany.,Section of Clinical and Molecular Dermatology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Manuel Winkler
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology, and Allergology, University Medical Center and Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, and Center of Excellence in Dermatology, 68135, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Christian David Schmid
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology, and Allergology, University Medical Center and Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, and Center of Excellence in Dermatology, 68135, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Anna Lena Irkens
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology, and Allergology, University Medical Center and Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, and Center of Excellence in Dermatology, 68135, Mannheim, Germany.,Section of Clinical and Molecular Dermatology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Ana Olsavszky
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology, and Allergology, University Medical Center and Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, and Center of Excellence in Dermatology, 68135, Mannheim, Germany.,Section of Clinical and Molecular Dermatology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Kai Schledzewski
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology, and Allergology, University Medical Center and Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, and Center of Excellence in Dermatology, 68135, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Philipp-Sebastian Reiners-Koch
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology, and Allergology, University Medical Center and Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, and Center of Excellence in Dermatology, 68135, Mannheim, Germany.,European Center for Angioscience, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Sergij Goerdt
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology, and Allergology, University Medical Center and Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, and Center of Excellence in Dermatology, 68135, Mannheim, Germany.,European Center for Angioscience, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Cyrill Géraud
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology, and Allergology, University Medical Center and Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, and Center of Excellence in Dermatology, 68135, Mannheim, Germany. .,Section of Clinical and Molecular Dermatology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany. .,European Center for Angioscience, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany.
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14
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Xu M, Mehl L, Zhang T, Thakur R, Sowards H, Myers T, Jessop L, Chesi A, Johnson ME, Wells AD, Michael HT, Bunda P, Jones K, Higson H, Hennessey RC, Jermusyk A, Kovacs MA, Landi MT, Iles MM, Goldstein AM, Choi J, Chanock SJ, Grant SF, Chari R, Merlino G, Law MH, Brown KM, Brown KM. A UVB-responsive common variant at chromosome band 7p21.1 confers tanning response and melanoma risk via regulation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor, AHR. Am J Hum Genet 2021; 108:1611-1630. [PMID: 34343493 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajhg.2021.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Genome-wide association studies (GWASs) have identified a melanoma-associated locus on chromosome band 7p21.1 with rs117132860 as the lead SNP and a secondary independent signal marked by rs73069846. rs117132860 is also associated with tanning ability and cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC). Because ultraviolet radiation (UVR) is a key environmental exposure for all three traits, we investigated the mechanisms by which this locus contributes to melanoma risk, focusing on cellular response to UVR. Fine-mapping of melanoma GWASs identified four independent sets of candidate causal variants. A GWAS region-focused Capture-C study of primary melanocytes identified physical interactions between two causal sets and the promoter of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR). Subsequent chromatin state annotation, eQTL, and luciferase assays identified rs117132860 as a functional variant and reinforced AHR as a likely causal gene. Because AHR plays critical roles in cellular response to dioxin and UVR, we explored links between this SNP and AHR expression after both 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) and ultraviolet B (UVB) exposure. Allele-specific AHR binding to rs117132860-G was enhanced following both, consistent with predicted weakened AHR binding to the risk/poor-tanning rs117132860-A allele, and allele-preferential AHR expression driven from the protective rs117132860-G allele was observed following UVB exposure. Small deletions surrounding rs117132860 introduced via CRISPR abrogates AHR binding, reduces melanocyte cell growth, and prolongs growth arrest following UVB exposure. These data suggest AHR is a melanoma susceptibility gene at the 7p21.1 risk locus and rs117132860 is a functional variant within a UVB-responsive element, leading to allelic AHR expression and altering melanocyte growth phenotypes upon exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Kevin M Brown
- Laboratory of Translational Genomics, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
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15
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Xu X, Liu C, Wang Y, Koivisto O, Zhou J, Shu Y, Zhang H. Nanotechnology-based delivery of CRISPR/Cas9 for cancer treatment. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 176:113891. [PMID: 34324887 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.113891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
CRISPR/Cas9 (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats-associated protein 9) is a potent technology for gene-editing. Owing to its high specificity and efficiency, CRISPR/Cas9 is extensity used for human diseases treatment, especially for cancer, which involves multiple genetic alterations. Different concepts of cancer treatment by CRISPR/Cas9 are established. However, significant challenges remain for its clinical applications. The greatest challenge for CRISPR/Cas9 therapy is how to safely and efficiently deliver it to target sites in vivo. Nanotechnology has greatly contributed to cancer drug delivery. Here, we present the action mechanisms of CRISPR/Cas9, its application in cancer therapy and especially focus on the nanotechnology-based delivery of CRISPR/Cas9 for cancer gene editing and immunotherapy to pave the way for its clinical translation. We detail the difficult barriers for CRISIR/Cas9 delivery in vivo and discuss the relative solutions for encapsulation, target delivery, controlled release, cellular internalization, and endosomal escape.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyu Xu
- ENT Institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China; Pharmaceutical Sciences Laboratory, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Åbo Akademi University, Turku 20520, Finland
| | - Chang Liu
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Laboratory, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Åbo Akademi University, Turku 20520, Finland
| | - Yonghui Wang
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Laboratory, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Åbo Akademi University, Turku 20520, Finland
| | - Oliver Koivisto
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Laboratory, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Åbo Akademi University, Turku 20520, Finland
| | - Junnian Zhou
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Laboratory, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Åbo Akademi University, Turku 20520, Finland; Experimental Hematology and Biochemistry Lab, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing 100850, China; Turku Bioscience Centre, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, Turku 20520, Finland
| | - Yilai Shu
- ENT Institute and Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Eye & ENT Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Hongbo Zhang
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Laboratory, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Åbo Akademi University, Turku 20520, Finland; Turku Bioscience Centre, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, Turku 20520, Finland.
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16
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A New Insight into the Potential Role of Tryptophan-Derived AhR Ligands in Skin Physiological and Pathological Processes. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22031104. [PMID: 33499346 PMCID: PMC7865493 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22031104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2020] [Revised: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) plays a crucial role in environmental responses and xenobiotic metabolism, as it controls the transcription profiles of several genes in a ligand-specific and cell-type-specific manner. Various barrier tissues, including skin, display the expression of AhR. Recent studies revealed multiple roles of AhR in skin physiology and disease, including melanogenesis, inflammation and cancer. Tryptophan metabolites are distinguished among the groups of natural and synthetic AhR ligands, and these include kynurenine, kynurenic acid and 6-formylindolo[3,2-b]carbazole (FICZ). Tryptophan derivatives can affect and regulate a variety of signaling pathways. Thus, the interest in how these substances influence physiological and pathological processes in the skin is expanding rapidly. The widespread presence of these substances and potential continuous exposure of the skin to their biological effects indicate the important role of AhR and its ligands in the prevention, pathogenesis and progression of skin diseases. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of AhR in skin physiology. Moreover, we discuss the role of AhR in skin pathological processes, including inflammatory skin diseases, pigmentation disorders and cancer. Finally, the impact of FICZ, kynurenic acid, and kynurenine on physiological and pathological processes in the skin is considered. However, the mechanisms of how AhR regulates skin function require further investigation.
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17
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AhR and Cancer: From Gene Profiling to Targeted Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22020752. [PMID: 33451095 PMCID: PMC7828536 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22020752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Revised: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a ligand-activated transcription factor that has been shown to be an essential regulator of a broad spectrum of biological activities required for maintaining the body’s vital functions. AhR also plays a critical role in tumorigenesis. Its role in cancer is complex, encompassing both pro- and anti-tumorigenic activities. Its level of expression and activity are specific to each tumor and patient, increasing the difficulty of understanding the activating or inhibiting roles of AhR ligands. We explored the role of AhR in tumor cell lines and patients using genomic data sets and discuss the extent to which AhR can be considered as a therapeutic target.
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18
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Wang Z, Snyder M, Kenison JE, Yang K, Lara B, Lydell E, Bennani K, Novikov O, Federico A, Monti S, Sherr DH. How the AHR Became Important in Cancer: The Role of Chronically Active AHR in Cancer Aggression. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 22:ijms22010387. [PMID: 33396563 PMCID: PMC7795223 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22010387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Revised: 12/25/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
For decades, the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) was studied for its role in environmental chemical toxicity i.e., as a quirk of nature and a mediator of unintended consequences of human pollution. During that period, it was not certain that the AHR had a “normal” physiological function. However, the ongoing accumulation of data from an ever-expanding variety of studies on cancer, cancer immunity, autoimmunity, organ development, and other areas bears witness to a staggering array of AHR-controlled normal and pathological activities. The objective of this review is to discuss how the AHR has gone from a likely contributor to genotoxic environmental carcinogen-induced cancer to a master regulator of malignant cell progression and cancer aggression. Particular focus is placed on the association between AHR activity and poor cancer outcomes, feedback loops that control chronic AHR activity in cancer, and the role of chronically active AHR in driving cancer cell invasion, migration, cancer stem cell characteristics, and survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongyan Wang
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02118, USA; (Z.W.); (K.Y.); (E.L.)
| | - Megan Snyder
- Graduate Program in Genetics and Genomics, Division of Graduate Medical Sciences, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA;
| | - Jessica E. Kenison
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA;
| | - Kangkang Yang
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02118, USA; (Z.W.); (K.Y.); (E.L.)
| | - Brian Lara
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University, Boston, MA 02118, USA; (B.L.); (K.B.)
| | - Emily Lydell
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02118, USA; (Z.W.); (K.Y.); (E.L.)
| | - Kawtar Bennani
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University, Boston, MA 02118, USA; (B.L.); (K.B.)
| | | | - Anthony Federico
- Division of Computational Biomedicine, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA; (A.F.); (S.M.)
| | - Stefano Monti
- Division of Computational Biomedicine, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA; (A.F.); (S.M.)
| | - David H. Sherr
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02118, USA; (Z.W.); (K.Y.); (E.L.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-617-358-1707
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19
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Effect of Tryptophan-Derived AhR Ligands, Kynurenine, Kynurenic Acid and FICZ, on Proliferation, Cell Cycle Regulation and Cell Death of Melanoma Cells-In Vitro Studies. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21217946. [PMID: 33114713 PMCID: PMC7663343 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21217946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Tryptophan metabolites: kynurenine (KYN), kynurenic acid (KYNA) and 6-formylindolo[3,2-b]carbazole (FICZ) are considered aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) ligands. AhR is mainly expressed in barrier tissues, including skin, and is involved in various physiological and pathological processes in skin. We studied the effect of KYN, KYNA and FICZ on melanocyte and melanoma A375 and RPMI7951 cell toxicity, proliferation and cell death. KYN and FICZ inhibited DNA synthesis in both melanoma cell lines, but RPMI7951 cells were more resistant to pharmacological treatment. Tested compounds were toxic to melanoma cells but not to normal human adult melanocytes. Changes in the protein level of cyclin D1, CDK4 and retinoblastoma tumor suppressor protein (Rb) phosphorylation revealed different mechanisms of action of individual AhR ligands. Importantly, all tryptophan metabolites induced necrosis, but only KYNA and FICZ promoted apoptosis in melanoma A375 cells. This effect was not observed in RPMI7951 cells. KYN, KYNA and FICZ in higher concentrations inhibited the protein level of AhR but did not affect the gene expression. To conclude, despite belonging to the group of AhR ligands, KYN, KYNA and FICZ exerted different effects on proliferation, toxicity and induction of cell death in melanoma cells in vitro.
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