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Niu Q, Ye S, Zhao L, Qian Y, Liu F. The role of liver cancer stem cells in hepatocellular carcinoma metastasis. Cancer Biol Ther 2024; 25:2321768. [PMID: 38393655 PMCID: PMC10896152 DOI: 10.1080/15384047.2024.2321768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Metastasis accounts for the vast majority of cancer deaths; however, this complex process has yet to be fully explained. To form metastases, cancer cells must undergo a series of steps, known as the "Metastatic cascade", each of which requires a specific functional transformation. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) play a vital role in tumor metastasis, but their dynamic behavior and regulatory mechanisms have not been fully elucidated. Based on the "Metastatic cascade" theory, this review summarizes the effect of liver CSCs on the metastatic biological programs that underlie the dissemination and metastatic growth of cancer cells. Liver CSCs have the capacity to initiate distant organ metastasis via EMT, and the microenvironment transformation that supports the ability of these cells to disseminate, evade immune surveillance, dormancy, and regenerate metastasis. Understanding the heterogeneity and traits of liver CSCs in these processes is critical for developing strategies to prevent and treat metastasis of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinghui Niu
- Liver Disease Center, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Susu Ye
- Liver Disease Center, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Liu Zhao
- Liver Disease Center, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yanzhi Qian
- School Hospital, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, China
| | - Fengchao Liu
- Liver Disease Center, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
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2
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Chen W, Chen M, Hong L, Xiahenazi A, Huang M, Tang N, Yang X, She F, Chen Y. M2-like tumor-associated macrophage-secreted CCL2 facilitates gallbladder cancer stemness and metastasis. Exp Hematol Oncol 2024; 13:83. [PMID: 39138521 PMCID: PMC11320879 DOI: 10.1186/s40164-024-00550-2] [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: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The predominant immune cells in solid tumors are M2-like tumor-associated macrophages (M2-like TAMs), which significantly impact the promotion of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in tumors, enhancing stemness and facilitating tumor invasion and metastasis. However, the contribution of M2-like TAMs to tumor progression in gallbladder cancer (GBC) is partially known. METHODS Immunohistochemistry was used to evaluate the expression of M2-like TAMs and cancer stem cell (CSC) markers in 24 pairs of GBC and adjacent noncancerous tissues from patients with GBC. Subsequently, GBC cells and M2-like TAMs were co-cultured to examine the expression of CSC markers, EMT markers, and migratory behavior. Proteomics was performed on the culture supernatant of M2-like TAMs. The mechanisms underlying the induction of EMT, stemness, and metastasis in GBC by M2-like TAMs were elucidated using proteomics and transcriptomics. GBC cells were co-cultured with undifferentiated macrophages (M0) and analyzed. The therapeutic effect of gemcitabine combined with a chemokine (C-C motif) receptor 2 (CCR2) antagonist on GBC was observed in vivo. RESULTS The expression levels of CD68 and CD163 in M2-like TAMs and CD44 and CD133 in gallbladder cancer stem cells (GBCSCs) were increased and positively correlated in GBC tissues compared with those in neighboring noncancerous tissues. M2-like TAMs secreted a significant amount of chemotactic cytokine ligand 2 (CCL2), which activated the MEK/extracellular regulated protein kinase (ERK) pathway and enhanced SNAIL expression after binding to the receptor CCR2 on GBC cells. Activation of the ERK pathway caused nuclear translocation of ELK1, which subsequently led to increased SNAIL expression. GBCSCs mediated the recruitment and polarization of M0 into M2-like TAMs within the GBC microenvironment via CCL2 secretion. In the murine models, the combination of a CCR2 antagonist and gemcitabine efficiently inhibited the growth of subcutaneous tumors in GBC. CONCLUSIONS The interaction between M2-like TAMs and GBC cells is mediated by the chemokine CCL2, which activates the MEK/ERK/ELK1/SNAIL pathway in GBC cells, promoting EMT, stemness, and metastasis. A combination of a CCR2 inhibitor and gemcitabine effectively suppressed the growth of subcutaneous tumors. Consequently, our study identified promising therapeutic targets and strategies for treating GBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weihong Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Fujian Institute of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, Fujian, China
- Fujian Medical University Cancer Center, Fuzhou, 350108, China
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350108, China
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Tumor Microbiology, Department of Medical Microbiology, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350108, Fujian, China
| | - Mingyuan Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Fujian Institute of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, Fujian, China
- Fujian Medical University Cancer Center, Fuzhou, 350108, China
| | - Lingju Hong
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Fujian Institute of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, Fujian, China
| | - Abudukeremu Xiahenazi
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Fujian Institute of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, Fujian, China
- Fujian Medical University Cancer Center, Fuzhou, 350108, China
| | - Maotuan Huang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Fujian Institute of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, Fujian, China
- Fujian Medical University Cancer Center, Fuzhou, 350108, China
| | - Nanhong Tang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Fujian Institute of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, Fujian, China
- Fujian Medical University Cancer Center, Fuzhou, 350108, China
| | - Xinyue Yang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Fujian Institute of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, Fujian, China
- Fujian Medical University Cancer Center, Fuzhou, 350108, China
| | - Feifei She
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350108, China.
- Fujian Key Laboratory of Tumor Microbiology, Department of Medical Microbiology, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350108, Fujian, China.
| | - Yanling Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Fujian Institute of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, 350001, Fujian, China.
- Fujian Medical University Cancer Center, Fuzhou, 350108, China.
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350108, China.
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3
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Gunes EG, Gunes M, Yu J, Janakiram M. Targeting cancer stem cells in multiple myeloma. Trends Cancer 2024; 10:733-748. [PMID: 38971642 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2024.06.002] [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: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
Multiple myeloma (MM) is a hematological malignancy of bone marrow (BM) plasma cells with excessive clonal expansion and is associated with the overproduction of light-chain or monoclonal immunoglobulins (Igs). MM remains incurable, with high rates of relapses and refractory disease after first-line treatment. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) have been implicated in drug resistance in MM; however, the evidence for CSCs in MM is not adequate, partly due to a lack of uniformity in the definitions of multiple myeloma stem cells (MMSCs). We review advances in understanding MMSCs and their role in drug resistance to MM therapies. We also discuss novel therapeutic strategies to overcome MMSC-mediated relapses and drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emine Gulsen Gunes
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 91010, USA; Judy and Bernard Briskin Center for Multiple Myeloma Research, City of Hope, Los Angeles, CA 91010, USA; Toni Stephenson Lymphoma Center, City of Hope, Los Angeles, CA 91010, USA.
| | - Metin Gunes
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 91010, USA
| | - Jianhua Yu
- Department of Hematology and Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 91010, USA; Department of Immuno-Oncology, Beckman Research Institute, Los Angeles, CA 91010, USA; Hematologic Malignancies Research Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 91010, USA; Comprehensive Cancer Center, City of Hope, Los Angeles, CA 91010, USA
| | - Murali Janakiram
- Department of Hematology, Division of Myeloma, City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA 91010, USA
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Bogdanowicz P, Bensadoun P, Noizet M, Béganton B, Philippe A, Alvarez-Georges S, Doat G, Tourette A, Bessou-Touya S, Lemaitre JM, Duplan H. Senomorphic activity of a combination of niacinamide and hyaluronic acid: correlation with clinical improvement of skin aging. Sci Rep 2024; 14:16321. [PMID: 39009698 PMCID: PMC11251187 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-66624-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Intrinsic and extrinsic factors, including lifestyle and sun exposure, can contribute to cell senescence, which impairs skin homeostasis, that may in turn lead to skin aging. Senescent cells have a specific secretome, called the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) that includes MMPs, CXCLs and S100A8/9. Reducing the SASP with senotherapeutics is a promising strategy to reduce skin aging. Here we evaluated the effect of a formula containing niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, which are known to limit senescence and skin aging. We conducted three different studies. (1) Ex vivo explants treated with the formula had more collagen and glycosaminoglycan. (2) In a clinical trial with forty-four women, two months of treatment improved fine lines, wrinkles, luminosity, smoothness, homogeneity, and plumpness. (3) In a third study on thirty women, we treated one arm for two months and took skin biopsies to study gene expression. 101 mRNAs and 13 miRNAs were differentially expressed. We observed a likely senomorphic effect, as there was a decrease in many SASP genes including MMP12 and CXCL9 and a significant downregulation of autocrine signaling genes: S100A8 and S100A9. These pharmaco-clinical results are the first to demonstrate the senomorphic properties of an effective anti-aging formula in skin.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paul Bensadoun
- INSERM IRMB UMR1183, Hôpital Saint Eloi, Université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Maïté Noizet
- R&D Pierre Fabre Dermo-Cosmétique & Personal Care, Toulouse, France
| | - Benoît Béganton
- R&D Pierre Fabre Dermo-Cosmétique & Personal Care, Toulouse, France
| | - Armony Philippe
- R&D Pierre Fabre Dermo-Cosmétique & Personal Care, Toulouse, France
| | | | - Gautier Doat
- Laboratoires Dermatologiques Avène, Lavaur, France
| | - Amélie Tourette
- R&D Pierre Fabre Dermo-Cosmétique & Personal Care, Toulouse, France
| | | | - Jean-Marc Lemaitre
- INSERM IRMB UMR1183, Hôpital Saint Eloi, Université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France.
| | - Hélène Duplan
- R&D Pierre Fabre Dermo-Cosmétique & Personal Care, Toulouse, France
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Chu X, Tian W, Ning J, Xiao G, Zhou Y, Wang Z, Zhai Z, Tanzhu G, Yang J, Zhou R. Cancer stem cells: advances in knowledge and implications for cancer therapy. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:170. [PMID: 38965243 PMCID: PMC11224386 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01851-y] [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: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs), a small subset of cells in tumors that are characterized by self-renewal and continuous proliferation, lead to tumorigenesis, metastasis, and maintain tumor heterogeneity. Cancer continues to be a significant global disease burden. In the past, surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy were the main cancer treatments. The technology of cancer treatments continues to develop and advance, and the emergence of targeted therapy, and immunotherapy provides more options for patients to a certain extent. However, the limitations of efficacy and treatment resistance are still inevitable. Our review begins with a brief introduction of the historical discoveries, original hypotheses, and pathways that regulate CSCs, such as WNT/β-Catenin, hedgehog, Notch, NF-κB, JAK/STAT, TGF-β, PI3K/AKT, PPAR pathway, and their crosstalk. We focus on the role of CSCs in various therapeutic outcomes and resistance, including how the treatments affect the content of CSCs and the alteration of related molecules, CSCs-mediated therapeutic resistance, and the clinical value of targeting CSCs in patients with refractory, progressed or advanced tumors. In summary, CSCs affect therapeutic efficacy, and the treatment method of targeting CSCs is still difficult to determine. Clarifying regulatory mechanisms and targeting biomarkers of CSCs is currently the mainstream idea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianjing Chu
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Wentao Tian
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Jiaoyang Ning
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Gang Xiao
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Yunqi Zhou
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Ziqi Wang
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Zhuofan Zhai
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Guilong Tanzhu
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China.
| | - Jie Yang
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China.
- Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China.
| | - Rongrong Zhou
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China.
- Xiangya Lung Cancer Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, 410008, China.
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6
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Chen C, Huang R, Wang N, Zheng Y, Zhou J, Yang B, Wang X, Zhang J, Pan B, Chen Z, Wang S, Wang Z, Xiang S. Fu-Zheng-Yi-Liu Formula inhibits the stem cells and metastasis of prostate cancer via tumor-associated macrophages/C-C motif chemokine ligand 5 pathway in tumor microenvironment. Chin J Nat Med 2024; 22:501-514. [PMID: 38906598 DOI: 10.1016/s1875-5364(24)60653-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2024]
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second most common malignancy among men globally. The Fu-Zheng-Yi-Liu (FZYL) Formula has been widely utilized in the treatment of PCa. This study investigates whether the FZYL Formula can inhibit PCa by targeting the TAMs/CCL5 pathway. We conducted in vitro co-cultures and in vivo co-injections of PCa cells and TAMs to mimic their interaction. Results showed that the FZYL Formula significantly reduced the proliferation, colony formation, subpopulations of PCSCs, and sphere-formation efficacy of PCa cells, even in the presence of TAM co-culture. Additionally, the Formula markedly decreased the migration, invasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of PCa cells induced by TAMs. The FZYL Formula also reversed M2 phenotype polarization in TAMs and dose-dependently reduced their CCL5 expression and secretion, with minimal cytotoxicity observed. Mechanistic studies confirmed that the TAMs/CCL5 axis is a critical target of the FZYL Formula, as the addition of exogenous CCL5 partially reversed the formula's inhibitory effects on PCSCs self-renewal in the co-culture system. Importantly, the Formula also significantly inhibited the growth of PCa xenografts, bone metastasis, and PCSCs activity in vivo by targeting the TAMs/CCL5 pathway. Overall, this study not only elucidates the immunomodulatory mechanism of the FZYL Formula in PCa therapy but also highlights the TAMs/CCL5 axis as a promising therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiwei Chen
- The Research Center of Integrative Cancer Medicine, Discipline of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, the Second Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510000, China; The First Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510000, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Research on Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, Guangdong Provincial Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Renlun Huang
- The Research Center of Integrative Cancer Medicine, Discipline of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, the Second Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510000, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Research on Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, Guangdong Provincial Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Neng Wang
- The Research Center of Integrative Cancer Medicine, Discipline of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, the Second Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510000, China; Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Lab on Chinese Medicine and Immune Disease Research, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510000, China; The Research Center for Integrative Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Yifeng Zheng
- The Research Center of Integrative Cancer Medicine, Discipline of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, the Second Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510000, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Research on Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, Guangdong Provincial Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510000, China; State Key Laboratory of Dampness Syndrome of Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Jianfu Zhou
- The Research Center of Integrative Cancer Medicine, Discipline of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, the Second Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510000, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Research on Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, Guangdong Provincial Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Bowen Yang
- The Research Center of Integrative Cancer Medicine, Discipline of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, the Second Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510000, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Research on Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, Guangdong Provincial Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Xuan Wang
- The Research Center of Integrative Cancer Medicine, Discipline of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, the Second Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510000, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Research on Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, Guangdong Provincial Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Juping Zhang
- The Research Center of Integrative Cancer Medicine, Discipline of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, the Second Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510000, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Research on Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, Guangdong Provincial Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Bo Pan
- The Research Center of Integrative Cancer Medicine, Discipline of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, the Second Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510000, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Research on Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, Guangdong Provincial Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Zhiqiang Chen
- The Research Center of Integrative Cancer Medicine, Discipline of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, the Second Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510000, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Research on Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, Guangdong Provincial Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Shengqi Wang
- The Research Center of Integrative Cancer Medicine, Discipline of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, the Second Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510000, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Research on Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, Guangdong Provincial Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510000, China; Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Lab on Chinese Medicine and Immune Disease Research, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510000, China.
| | - Zhiyu Wang
- The Research Center of Integrative Cancer Medicine, Discipline of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, the Second Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510000, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Research on Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, Guangdong Provincial Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510000, China; Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Joint Lab on Chinese Medicine and Immune Disease Research, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510000, China; The Research Center for Integrative Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510000, China; State Key Laboratory of Dampness Syndrome of Chinese Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510000, China.
| | - Songtao Xiang
- The Research Center of Integrative Cancer Medicine, Discipline of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, the Second Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510000, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Clinical Research on Traditional Chinese Medicine Syndrome, Guangdong Provincial Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510000, China.
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7
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Guo Q, Zhou Y, Xie T, Yuan Y, Li H, Shi W, Zheng L, Li X, Zhang W. Tumor microenvironment of cancer stem cells: Perspectives on cancer stem cell targeting. Genes Dis 2024; 11:101043. [PMID: 38292177 PMCID: PMC10825311 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2023.05.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
There are few tumor cell subpopulations with stem cell characteristics in tumor tissue, defined as cancer stem cells (CSCs) or cancer stem-like cells (CSLCs), which can reconstruct neoplasms with malignant biological behaviors such as invasiveness via self-renewal and unlimited generation. The microenvironment that CSCs depend on consists of various cellular components and corresponding medium components. Among these factors existing at a variety of levels and forms, cytokine networks and numerous signal pathways play an important role in signaling transduction. These factors promote or maintain cancer cell stemness, and participate in cancer recurrence, metastasis, and resistance. This review aims to summarize the recent molecular data concerning the multilayered relationship between CSCs and CSC-favorable microenvironments. We also discuss the therapeutic implications of targeting this synergistic interplay, hoping to give an insight into targeting cancer cell stemness for tumor therapy and prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianqian Guo
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan 450003, China
| | - Yi Zhou
- School of Life Science and Technology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211198, China
| | - Tianyuan Xie
- School of Life Science and Technology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211198, China
| | - Yin Yuan
- School of Life Science and Technology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211198, China
| | - Huilong Li
- School of Life Science and Technology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211198, China
| | - Wanjin Shi
- School of Life Science and Technology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211198, China
| | - Lufeng Zheng
- School of Life Science and Technology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211198, China
| | - Xiaoman Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, China
| | - Wenzhou Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan 450003, China
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8
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Shen KY, Zhu Y, Xie SZ, Qin LX. Immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and immunotherapy of hepatocellular carcinoma: current status and prospectives. J Hematol Oncol 2024; 17:25. [PMID: 38679698 PMCID: PMC11057182 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-024-01549-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major health concern worldwide, with limited therapeutic options and poor prognosis. In recent years, immunotherapies such as immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have made great progress in the systemic treatment of HCC. The combination treatments based on ICIs have been the major trend in this area. Recently, dual immune checkpoint blockade with durvalumab plus tremelimumab has also emerged as an effective treatment for advanced HCC. However, the majority of HCC patients obtain limited benefits. Understanding the immunological rationale and exploring novel ways to improve the efficacy of immunotherapy has drawn much attention. In this review, we summarize the latest progress in this area, the ongoing clinical trials of immune-based combination therapies, as well as novel immunotherapy strategies such as chimeric antigen receptor T cells, personalized neoantigen vaccines, oncolytic viruses, and bispecific antibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke-Yu Shen
- Hepatobiliary Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital & Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, 12 Urumqi Road (M), Shanghai, 200040, China
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Ying Zhu
- Hepatobiliary Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital & Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, 12 Urumqi Road (M), Shanghai, 200040, China
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Sun-Zhe Xie
- Hepatobiliary Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital & Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, 12 Urumqi Road (M), Shanghai, 200040, China
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Lun-Xiu Qin
- Hepatobiliary Surgery, Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital & Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, 12 Urumqi Road (M), Shanghai, 200040, China.
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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Wei H, Li W, Yang M, Fang Q, Nian J, Huang Y, Wei Q, Huang Z, Liu G, Xu Z, Hu A, Pu J. METTL3/16-mediated m 6A modification of ZNNT1 promotes hepatocellular carcinoma progression by activating ZNNT1/osteopontin/S100A9 positive feedback loop-mediated crosstalk between macrophages and tumour cells. Clin Immunol 2024; 261:109924. [PMID: 38310994 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2024.109924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
Macrophages are the major components of tumour microenvironment, which play critical roles in tumour development. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) also contributes to tumour progression. However, the potential roles of m6A in modulating macrophages in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are poorly understood. Here, we identified ZNNT1 as an HCC-related m6A modification target, which was upregulated and associated with poor prognosis of HCC. METTL3 and METTL16-mediated m6A modification contributed to ZNNT1 upregulation through stabilizing ZNNT1 transcript. ZNNT1 exerted oncogenic roles in HCC. Furthermore, ZNNT1 recruited and induced M2 polarization of macrophages via up-regulating osteopontin (OPN) expression and secretion. M2 Macrophages-recruited by ZNNT1-overexpressed HCC cells secreted S100A9, which further upregulated ZNNT1 expression in HCC cells via AGER/NF-κB signaling. Thus, this study demonstrates that m6A modification activated the ZNNT1/OPN/S100A9 positive feedback loop, which promoted macrophages recruitment and M2 polarization, and enhanced malignant features of HCC cells. m6A modification-triggered ZNNT1/OPN/S100A9 feedback loop represents potential therapeutic target for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huamei Wei
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Wenchuan Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Meng Yang
- Graduate College of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Quan Fang
- Graduate College of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Jiahui Nian
- Graduate College of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Youguan Huang
- Graduate College of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Qing Wei
- Graduate College of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Zihua Huang
- Graduate College of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Guoman Liu
- Graduate College of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Zuoming Xu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Anbin Hu
- Department of Organ Transplantation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jian Pu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China; The Guangxi Clinical Medical Research Center for Hepatobiliary Diseases, No. 18 Zhongshan two Road, Baise 533000, China.
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10
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Cornice J, Verzella D, Arboretto P, Vecchiotti D, Capece D, Zazzeroni F, Franzoso G. NF-κB: Governing Macrophages in Cancer. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:197. [PMID: 38397187 PMCID: PMC10888451 DOI: 10.3390/genes15020197] [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: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 01/27/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are the major component of the tumor microenvironment (TME), where they sustain tumor progression and or-tumor immunity. Due to their plasticity, macrophages can exhibit anti- or pro-tumor functions through the expression of different gene sets leading to distinct macrophage phenotypes: M1-like or pro-inflammatory and M2-like or anti-inflammatory. NF-κB transcription factors are central regulators of TAMs in cancers, where they often drive macrophage polarization toward an M2-like phenotype. Therefore, the NF-κB pathway is an attractive therapeutic target for cancer immunotherapy in a wide range of human tumors. Hence, targeting NF-κB pathway in the myeloid compartment is a potential clinical strategy to overcome microenvironment-induced immunosuppression and increase anti-tumor immunity. In this review, we discuss the role of NF-κB as a key driver of macrophage functions in tumors as well as the principal strategies to overcome tumor immunosuppression by targeting the NF-κB pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Cornice
- Department of Immunology and Inflammation, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UK; (J.C.); (P.A.)
| | - Daniela Verzella
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences (DISCAB), University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (D.V.); (D.C.); (F.Z.)
| | - Paola Arboretto
- Department of Immunology and Inflammation, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UK; (J.C.); (P.A.)
| | - Davide Vecchiotti
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences (DISCAB), University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (D.V.); (D.C.); (F.Z.)
| | - Daria Capece
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences (DISCAB), University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (D.V.); (D.C.); (F.Z.)
| | - Francesca Zazzeroni
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences (DISCAB), University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (D.V.); (D.C.); (F.Z.)
| | - Guido Franzoso
- Department of Immunology and Inflammation, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UK; (J.C.); (P.A.)
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11
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Zhou R, Pei B, Li X, Zhang X. Involvement of S100A6/S100A11 in T-Cell Immune Regulatory in HCC Revealed by Single Cell RNA-seq. Technol Cancer Res Treat 2024; 23:15330338241252610. [PMID: 38766816 PMCID: PMC11104034 DOI: 10.1177/15330338241252610] [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] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Immunotherapy plays a significant role in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Members of the S100 protein family (S100s) have been widely implicated in the pathogenesis and progression of tumors. However, the exact mechanism by which S100s contribute to tumor immunity remains unclear. Methods: To explore the role of S100s in HCC immune cells, we collected and comparatively analyzed single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data of HCC and hepatitis B virus-associated HCC. By mapping cell classification and searching for S100s binding targets and downstream targets. Results: S100A6/S100A11 was differentially expressed in tumor T cells and involved in the nuclear factor (NF) κB pathway. Further investigation of the TCGA dataset revealed that patients with low S100A6/S100A11 expression had a better prognosis. Temporal cell trajectory analysis showed that the activation of the NF-κB pathway is at a critical stage and has an important impact on the tumor microenvironment. Conclusion: Our study revealed that S100A6/S100A11 could be involved in regulating the differentiation and cellular activity of T-cell subpopulations in HCC, and its low expression was positively correlated with prognosis. It may provide a new direction for immunotherapy of HCC and a theoretical basis for future clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Zhou
- Cancer Center, The Central Hospital of Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Enshi, China
- Department of General Surgery, Renhe Hospital, Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
| | - Bo Pei
- Cancer Center, The Central Hospital of Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Enshi, China
| | - Xinzhi Li
- Department of General Surgery, Renhe Hospital, Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
| | - Xianlin Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Renhe Hospital, Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
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12
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Guo Z, Han S. Targeting cancer stem cell plasticity in triple-negative breast cancer. EXPLORATION OF TARGETED ANTI-TUMOR THERAPY 2023; 4:1165-1181. [PMID: 38213533 PMCID: PMC10776602 DOI: 10.37349/etat.2023.00190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a highly aggressive breast cancer subtype with limited treatment options. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are thought to play a crucial role in TNBC progression and resistance to therapy. CSCs are a small subpopulation of cells within tumors that possess self-renewal and differentiation capabilities and are responsible for tumor initiation, maintenance, and metastasis. CSCs exhibit plasticity, allowing them to switch between states and adapt to changing microenvironments. Targeting CSC plasticity has emerged as a promising strategy for TNBC treatment. This review summarizes recent advances in understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying CSC plasticity in TNBC and discusses potential therapeutic approaches targeting CSC plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengwang Guo
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Integration of Chinese and Western Medicine, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Shuyan Han
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Integration of Chinese and Western Medicine, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing 100142, China
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13
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Zhang X, Yu C, Zhao S, Wang M, Shang L, Zhou J, Ma Y. The role of tumor-associated macrophages in hepatocellular carcinoma progression: A narrative review. Cancer Med 2023; 12:22109-22129. [PMID: 38098217 PMCID: PMC10757104 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.6717] [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: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignant tumors in the world, with complex etiology and mechanism, and a high mortality rate. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are an important part of the HCC tumor microenvironment. Studies in recent years have shown that TAMs are involved in multiple stages of HCC and are related to treatment and prognosis in HCC. The specific mechanisms between TAMs and HCC are gradually being revealed. This paper reviews recent advances in the mechanisms associated with TAMs in HCC, concentrating on an overview of effects of TAMs on drug resistance in HCC and the signaling pathways linked with HCC, providing clues for the treatment and prognosis determination of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyi Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First HospitalNanjing Medical UniversityNanjingChina
| | - Chao Yu
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First HospitalNanjing Medical UniversityNanjingChina
| | - Siqi Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First HospitalNanjing Medical UniversityNanjingChina
| | - Min Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First HospitalNanjing Medical UniversityNanjingChina
| | - Longcheng Shang
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First HospitalNanjing Medical UniversityNanjingChina
| | - Jin Zhou
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First HospitalNanjing Medical UniversityNanjingChina
| | - Yong Ma
- Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First HospitalNanjing Medical UniversityNanjingChina
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14
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Gao X, Yang C, Li H, Shao L, Wang M, Su R. EMT-related gene risk model establishment for prognosis and drug treatment efficiency prediction in hepatocellular carcinoma. Sci Rep 2023; 13:20380. [PMID: 37990105 PMCID: PMC10663558 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-47886-z] [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: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023] Open
Abstract
This study was designed to evaluate the prognosis and pharmacological therapy sensitivity of epithelial mesenchymal transition-related genes (EMTRGs) that obtained from the EMTome database in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) using bioinformatical method. The expression status of EMTRGs were also investigated using the clinical information of HCC patients supported by TCGA database and the ICGC database to establish the TCGA cohort as the training set and the ICGC cohort as the validation set. Analyze the EMTRGs between HCC tissue and liver tissue in the TCGA cohort in the order of univariate COX regression, LASSO regression, and multivariate COX regression, and construct a risk model for EMTRGs. In addition, enrichment pathways, gene mutation status, immune infiltration, and response to drugs were also analyzed in the high-risk and low-risk groups of the TCGA cohort, and the protein expression status of EMTRGs was verified. The results showed a total of 286 differentially expressed EMTRGs in the TCGA cohort, and EZH2, S100A9, TNFRSF11B, SPINK5, and CCL21 were used for modeling. The TCGA cohort was found to have a worse outcome in the high-risk group of HCC patients, and the ICGC cohort confirmed this finding. In addition, EMTRGs risk score was shown to be an independent prognostic factor in both cohorts by univariate and multivariate COX regression. The results of GSEA analysis showed that most of the enriched pathways in the high-risk group were associated with tumor, and the pathways enriched in the low-risk group were mainly associated with metabolism. Patients in various risk groups had varying immunological conditions, and the high-risk group might benefit more from targeted treatments. To sum up, the EMTRGs risk model was developed to forecast the prognosis for HCC patients, and the model might be useful in assisting in the choice of treatment drugs for HCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaqing Gao
- The First Clinical Medical College, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, People's Republic of China
| | - Chunting Yang
- The First Clinical Medical College, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, People's Republic of China
- Department of Geriatrics, Affiliated Hospital of Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Herbs and Prescription Innovation and Transformation of Gansu Province and Gansu Provincial Traditional Chinese Medicine New Product Innovation Engineering Laboratory, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, People's Republic of China
| | - Hailong Li
- The First Clinical Medical College, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, People's Republic of China.
- Department of Geriatrics, Affiliated Hospital of Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, People's Republic of China.
- Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Herbs and Prescription Innovation and Transformation of Gansu Province and Gansu Provincial Traditional Chinese Medicine New Product Innovation Engineering Laboratory, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, People's Republic of China.
- Key Laboratory of Dunhuang Medicine and Transformation, Ministry of Education, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, People's Republic of China.
| | - Lihua Shao
- The First Clinical Medical College, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, People's Republic of China
- Department of Geriatrics, Affiliated Hospital of Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Dunhuang Medicine and Transformation, Ministry of Education, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, People's Republic of China
| | - Meng Wang
- The First Clinical Medical College, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, People's Republic of China
- Department of Geriatrics, Affiliated Hospital of Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Herbs and Prescription Innovation and Transformation of Gansu Province and Gansu Provincial Traditional Chinese Medicine New Product Innovation Engineering Laboratory, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, People's Republic of China
| | - Rong Su
- The First Clinical Medical College, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, People's Republic of China
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15
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Li Z, Zhang Z, Fang L, Zhao J, Niu Z, Chen H, Cao G. Tumor Microenvironment Composition and Related Therapy in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. J Hepatocell Carcinoma 2023; 10:2083-2099. [PMID: 38022729 PMCID: PMC10676104 DOI: 10.2147/jhc.s436962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Globally, primary liver cancer is the third leading cause of cancer death, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) accounts for 75%-95%. The tumor microenvironment (TME), composed of the extracellular matrix, helper cells, immune cells, cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors, promotes the immune escape, invasion, and metastasis of HCC. Tumor metastasis and postoperative recurrence are the main threats to the long-term prognosis of HCC. TME-related therapies are increasingly recognized as effective treatments. Molecular-targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and their combined therapy are the main approaches. Immunotherapy, represented by immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), and targeted therapy, highlighted by tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), have greatly improved the prognosis of HCC. This review focuses on the TME compositions and emerging therapeutic approaches to TME in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zishuai Li
- Key Laboratory of Biological Defense, Ministry of Education, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, People’s Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Bioprotection, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Epidemiology, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zihan Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology, Tongji University School of Medicine Tongji University, Shanghai, 200120, People’s Republic of China
| | - Letian Fang
- Key Laboratory of Biological Defense, Ministry of Education, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, People’s Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Bioprotection, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Epidemiology, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jiayi Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Biological Defense, Ministry of Education, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, People’s Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Bioprotection, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Epidemiology, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zheyun Niu
- Department of Epidemiology, Tongji University School of Medicine Tongji University, Shanghai, 200120, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hongsen Chen
- Key Laboratory of Biological Defense, Ministry of Education, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, People’s Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Bioprotection, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Epidemiology, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, People’s Republic of China
| | - Guangwen Cao
- Key Laboratory of Biological Defense, Ministry of Education, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, People’s Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Bioprotection, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Epidemiology, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, People’s Republic of China
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16
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Agirre-Lizaso A, Huici-Izagirre M, Urretabizkaia-Garmendia J, Rodrigues PM, Banales JM, Perugorria MJ. Targeting the Heterogeneous Tumour-Associated Macrophages in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4977. [PMID: 37894344 PMCID: PMC10605535 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15204977] [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: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a prevalent and aggressive cancer that comprises a complex tumour microenvironment (TME). Tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs) are one of the most abundant immune cells present in the TME, and play a key role both in the development and in the progression of HCC. Thus, TAM-based immunotherapy has been presented as a promising strategy to complement the currently available therapies for HCC treatment. Among the novel approaches focusing on TAMs, reprogramming their functional state has emerged as a promising option for targeting TAMs as an immunotherapy in combination with the currently available treatment options. Nevertheless, a further understanding of the immunobiology of TAMs is still required. This review synthesizes current insights into the heterogeneous nature of TAMs in HCC and describes the mechanisms behind their pro-tumoural polarization focusing the attention on their interaction with HCC cells. Furthermore, this review underscores the potential involvement of TAMs' reprogramming in HCC therapy and highlights the urgency of advancing our understanding of these cells within the dynamic landscape of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aloña Agirre-Lizaso
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV-EHU), 20014 Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain; (A.A.-L.); (M.H.-I.); (J.U.-G.); (P.M.R.); (J.M.B.)
| | - Maider Huici-Izagirre
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV-EHU), 20014 Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain; (A.A.-L.); (M.H.-I.); (J.U.-G.); (P.M.R.); (J.M.B.)
| | - Josu Urretabizkaia-Garmendia
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV-EHU), 20014 Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain; (A.A.-L.); (M.H.-I.); (J.U.-G.); (P.M.R.); (J.M.B.)
| | - Pedro M. Rodrigues
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV-EHU), 20014 Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain; (A.A.-L.); (M.H.-I.); (J.U.-G.); (P.M.R.); (J.M.B.)
- Centre for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, 48009 Bilbao, Spain
| | - Jesus M. Banales
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV-EHU), 20014 Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain; (A.A.-L.); (M.H.-I.); (J.U.-G.); (P.M.R.); (J.M.B.)
- Centre for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, 48009 Bilbao, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, School of Sciences, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Maria J. Perugorria
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV-EHU), 20014 Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain; (A.A.-L.); (M.H.-I.); (J.U.-G.); (P.M.R.); (J.M.B.)
- Centre for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 20014 Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain
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17
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Yuan Y, Wu D, Li J, Huang D, Zhao Y, Gao T, Zhuang Z, Cui Y, Zheng DY, Tang Y. Mechanisms of tumor-associated macrophages affecting the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1217400. [PMID: 37663266 PMCID: PMC10470150 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1217400] [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: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are essential components of the immune cell stroma of hepatocellular carcinoma. TAMs originate from monocytic myeloid-derived suppressor cells, peripheral blood monocytes, and kupffer cells. The recruitment of monocytes to the HCC tumor microenvironment is facilitated by various factors, leading to their differentiation into TAMs with unique phenotypes. TAMs can directly activate or inhibit the nuclear factor-κB, interleukin-6/signal transducer and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3, Wnt/β-catenin, transforming growth factor-β1/bone morphogenetic protein, and extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 signaling pathways in tumor cells and interact with other immune cells via producing cytokines and extracellular vesicles, thus affecting carcinoma cell proliferation, invasive and migratory, angiogenesis, liver fibrosis progression, and other processes to participate in different stages of tumor progression. In recent years, TAMs have received much attention as a prospective treatment target for HCC. This review describes the origin and characteristics of TAMs and their mechanism of action in the occurrence and development of HCC to offer a theoretical foundation for further clinical research of TAMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Yuan
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Dailin Wu
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jing Li
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Dan Huang
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yan Zhao
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Tianqi Gao
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhenjie Zhuang
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Ying Cui
- Department of Psychiatry, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Da-Yong Zheng
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of Hepatology, TCM-Integrated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary, Cancer Center, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Ying Tang
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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18
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Wang X, Golino JL, Hawk NV, Xie C. Reciprocal Interaction of Cancer Stem Cells of Cholangiocarcinoma with Macrophage. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2023; 19:2013-2023. [PMID: 37249733 PMCID: PMC10390592 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-023-10557-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma is an aggressive type of liver cancer with few effective treatment options. Therefore, there is great need to better understand the biology of this malignancy to further development of novel treatment options. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are thought to the underlying reason for cancer initiation, metastasis, and relapse. However, due to their elusive character and differences in identification among different types of cancer, it remains a challenge to study such cells. Additionally, characterization of the tumor microenvironment such as interactions with immune cells remain largely unknown. Here, we employ a fluorescent reporter system to track and isolate stem-like cancer cells of cholangiocarcinoma cell lines. Following verification of a stem-like signature (upregulated expression of stemness markers, resistance to chemotherapy, increased spheroid formation, and tumorigenesis capabilities despite inoculation of a small number of cells), we analyzed the interaction of these cells with macrophages via direct and indirect coculture assays. We noted direct coculturing increased stemness among CSC populations and induced both M1 (CD80 and HLA-DR) and M2 (CD163) tumor associated macrophage polarization. These studies suggest that there is a bi-directional crosstalk between macrophages and CSCs that promotes stemness renewal and tumor associated macrophage polarization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Wang
- Thoracic and GI Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA
| | - Jihye L Golino
- Thoracic and GI Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA
| | - Nga Voong Hawk
- Experimental Transplantation and Immunology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Changqing Xie
- Thoracic and GI Malignancies Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA.
- NCI CCR Liver Cancer Program, National Institutes of Health, 10 Center Drive, Building 10 3B43, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
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Chen S, Saeed AFUH, Liu Q, Jiang Q, Xu H, Xiao GG, Rao L, Duo Y. Macrophages in immunoregulation and therapeutics. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:207. [PMID: 37211559 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01452-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 232] [Impact Index Per Article: 232.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Macrophages exist in various tissues, several body cavities, and around mucosal surfaces and are a vital part of the innate immune system for host defense against many pathogens and cancers. Macrophages possess binary M1/M2 macrophage polarization settings, which perform a central role in an array of immune tasks via intrinsic signal cascades and, therefore, must be precisely regulated. Many crucial questions about macrophage signaling and immune modulation are yet to be uncovered. In addition, the clinical importance of tumor-associated macrophages is becoming more widely recognized as significant progress has been made in understanding their biology. Moreover, they are an integral part of the tumor microenvironment, playing a part in the regulation of a wide variety of processes including angiogenesis, extracellular matrix transformation, cancer cell proliferation, metastasis, immunosuppression, and resistance to chemotherapeutic and checkpoint blockade immunotherapies. Herein, we discuss immune regulation in macrophage polarization and signaling, mechanical stresses and modulation, metabolic signaling pathways, mitochondrial and transcriptional, and epigenetic regulation. Furthermore, we have broadly extended the understanding of macrophages in extracellular traps and the essential roles of autophagy and aging in regulating macrophage functions. Moreover, we discussed recent advances in macrophages-mediated immune regulation of autoimmune diseases and tumorigenesis. Lastly, we discussed targeted macrophage therapy to portray prospective targets for therapeutic strategies in health and diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanze Chen
- Department of Respiratory Diseases and Critic Care Unit, Shenzhen Institute of Respiratory Disease, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University; The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, 518020, China
| | - Abdullah F U H Saeed
- Department of Cancer Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope National Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, 91010, USA
| | - Quan Liu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital (Nanshan Hospital), Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518052, China
| | - Qiong Jiang
- Department of Respiratory Diseases and Critic Care Unit, Shenzhen Institute of Respiratory Disease, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University; The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, 518020, China
| | - Haizhao Xu
- Department of Respiratory Diseases and Critic Care Unit, Shenzhen Institute of Respiratory Disease, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University; The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, 518020, China
- Department of Respiratory, The First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Gary Guishan Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Chemical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, China.
| | - Lang Rao
- Institute of Biomedical Health Technology and Engineering, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, 518132, China.
| | - Yanhong Duo
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology (MTC), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
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Ren H, Kang N, Yin S, Xu C, Qu T, Dai D. Characteristic of molecular subtypes based on PANoptosis-related genes and experimental verification of hepatocellular carcinoma. Aging (Albany NY) 2023; 15:204720. [PMID: 37171396 DOI: 10.18632/aging.204720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a type of liver cancer that originates from liver cells. It is one of the most common types of liver cancer and a leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Early detection and treatment can improve the HCC prognosis. Therefore, it is necessary to further improve HCC markers and risk stratification. PANoptosome is a cytoplasmic polymer protein complex that regulates a proinflammatory programmed cell death pathway called "PANoptosis". The role of PANoptosis in HCC remains unclear. In this study, the molecular changes of PANoptosis related genes (PAN-RGs) in HCC were systematically evaluated. We characterized the heterogeneity of HCC by using consensus clustering to identify two distinct subtypes. The two subtypes showed different survival rate, biological function, chemotherapy drug sensitivity and immune microenvironment. After identification of PAN-RG differential expression genes (DEGs), a prognostic model was established by Cox regression analysis using minimum absolute contraction and selection operator (LASSO), and its prognostic value was verified by Cox regression analysis, Kaplan-Meier curve and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Our own specimens were also used to further validate the prognostic significance and possible clinical value of the selected targets. Subsequently, we conducted a preliminary discussion on the reasons for the influence of the model on the prognosis through TME analysis, drug resistance analysis, TMB analysis and other studies. This study provides a new idea for individualized and precise treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haitao Ren
- Department of Interventional Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shangdong 266071, China
| | - Na Kang
- Operating Room, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shangdong 266071, China
| | - Shuan Yin
- Department of Pediatrics, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shangdong 266071, China
| | - Chen Xu
- Department of Infectious Disease, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shangdong 266071, China
| | - Tengfei Qu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shangdong 266071, China
| | - Dongdong Dai
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shangdong 266071, China
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Chen Y, Ouyang Y, Li Z, Wang X, Ma J. S100A8 and S100A9 in Cancer. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2023; 1878:188891. [PMID: 37001615 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2023.188891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023]
Abstract
S100A8 and S100A9 are Ca2+ binding proteins that belong to the S100 family. Primarily expressed in neutrophils and monocytes, S100A8 and S100A9 play critical roles in modulating various inflammatory responses and inflammation-associated diseases. Forming a common heterodimer structure S100A8/A9, S100A8 and S100A9 are widely reported to participate in multiple signaling pathways in tumor cells. Meanwhile, S100A8/A9, S100A8, and S100A9, mainly as promoters, contribute to tumor development, growth and metastasis by interfering with tumor metabolism and the microenvironment. In recent years, the potential of S100A8/A9, S100A9, and S100A8 as tumor diagnostic or prognostic biomarkers has also been demonstrated. In addition, an increasing number of potential therapies targeting S100A8/A9 and related signaling pathways have emerged. In this review, we will first expound on the characteristics of S100A8/A9, S100A9, and S100A8 in-depth, focus on their interactions with tumor cells and microenvironments, and then discuss their clinical applications as biomarkers and therapeutic targets. We also highlight current limitations and look into the future of S100A8/A9 targeted anti-cancer therapy.
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Li B, Zhu W, Shi D, Che H, Lyu Q, Jiang B. New progress with calcium-binding protein S100A16 in digestive system disease. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 17:263-272. [PMID: 36718596 DOI: 10.1080/17474124.2023.2174968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This review summarizes and analyzes the abnormal expression and mechanism of S100A16 in digestive system diseases, which is expected to provide new ideas and methods for adjuvant treatment and prognosis evaluation of digestive system diseases. AREAS COVERED Based on original publications found in database systems (PubMed, Cochrane), we introduce the mechanism and research progress of S100A16 in digestive system tumors, inflammatory bowel disease and fatty liver. EXPERT OPINION S100A16 is closely related to the proliferation, migration, and invasion of digestive system tumor cells. Further, it plays an important role in inflammatory bowel disease and fatty liver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Binbin Li
- Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Wanqing Zhu
- Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Di Shi
- Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Huilin Che
- Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Qinglan Lyu
- Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Department of Pathophysiology, Sepsis Translational Medicine Key Laboratory of Hunan Province, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Bimei Jiang
- Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Department of Pathophysiology, Sepsis Translational Medicine Key Laboratory of Hunan Province, Changsha, Hunan, China
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Huang H, Tsui YM, Ng IOL. Fueling HCC Dynamics: Interplay Between Tumor Microenvironment and Tumor Initiating Cells. Cell Mol Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 15:1105-1116. [PMID: 36736664 PMCID: PMC10036749 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmgh.2023.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma) is a common cancer worldwide. It is an aggressive cancer, with high rates of tumor relapse and metastasis, high chemoresistance, and poor prognosis. Liver tumor-initiating cells (LTICs) are a distinctive subset of liver cancer cells with self-renewal and differentiation capacities that contribute to intratumoral heterogeneity, tumor recurrence, metastasis, and chemo-drug resistance. LTICs, marked by different TIC markers, have high plasticity and use diverse signaling pathways to promote tumorigenesis and tumor progression. LTICs are nurtured in the tumor microenvironment (TME), where noncellular and cellular components participate to build an immunosuppressive and tumor-promoting niche. As a result, the TME has emerged as a promising anticancer therapeutic target, as exemplified by some successful applications of tumor immunotherapy. In this review, we discuss the plasticity of LTICs in terms of cellular differentiation, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and cellular metabolism. We also discuss the various components of the TME, including its noncellular and cellular components. Thereafter, we discuss the mutual interactions between TME and LTICs, including recently reported molecular mechanisms. Lastly, we summarize and describe new ideas concerning novel approaches and strategies for liver cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyang Huang
- Department of Pathology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong; State Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Yu-Man Tsui
- Department of Pathology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong; State Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Irene Oi-Lin Ng
- Department of Pathology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong; State Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
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24
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M2 tumor-associated macrophage mediates the maintenance of stemness to promote cisplatin resistance by secreting TGF-β1 in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. J Transl Med 2023; 21:26. [PMID: 36641471 PMCID: PMC9840838 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-022-03863-0] [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: 08/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is a deadly gastrointestinal malignancy, and chemotherapy resistance is a key factor leading to its poor prognosis. M2 tumor-associated macrophages (M2-TAMs) may be an important cause of chemoresistance in ESCC, but its exact mechanism is still unclear. METHODS In order to study the role of M2-TAMs in ESCC chemoresistance, CCK-8, clone formation assay, flow cytometric apoptosis assay, qRT-PCR, western blotting, and serum-free sphere formation assays were used. In vivo animal experiments and human ESCC tissues were used to confirm the findings. RESULTS In vitro and in vivo animal experiments, M2-TAMs reduced the sensitivity of ESCC cells to cisplatin. Mechanistically, M2-TAMs highly secreted TGF-β1 which activated the TGFβR1-smad2/3 pathway to promote and maintain the stemness characteristic of ESCC cells, which could inhibit the sensitivity to cisplatin. Using TGFβ signaling inhibitor SB431542 or knockdown of TGFβR1 could reverse the cisplatin resistance of ESCC cells. In 92 cases of human ESCC tissues, individuals with a high density of M2-TAMs had considerably higher levels of TGF-β1. These patients also had worse prognoses and richer stemness markers. CONCLUSION TGF-β1 secreted from M2-TAMs promoted and maintained the stemness characteristic to induce cisplatin resistance in ESCC by activating the TGFβ1-Smad2/3 pathway.
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Liu QP, Chen YY, An P, Rahman K, Luan X, Zhang H. Natural products targeting macrophages in tumor microenvironment are a source of potential antitumor agents. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 109:154612. [PMID: 36610172 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2022.154612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Macrophages are one of the major cell types in the immune system and are closely related to tumor development, which can be polarized into M1 type with anti-tumor activity or M2 type with pro-tumor activity. The infiltration of more macrophages into tumor predicts poorer prognosis due to their more exhibition of M2 phenotype under the influence of many factors in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Therefore, reverse of M2 macrophage polarization in TME is conducive to the suppression of tumor deterioration and understanding the influencing factors of macrophage polarization is helpful to provide new ideas for the subsequent targeting macrophages for tumor therapy. PURPOSE This review summarizes the effects of TME on macrophage polarization and natural products against M2 macrophage polarization, which may provide some directions for tumor therapy. METHODS The search of relevant literature was conducted using the PubMed, Science Direct, CNKI and Web of Science databases with the search terms "macrophage", "tumor microenvironment", "natural product" and "tumor". RESULTS The mutual transformation of M1 and M2 phenotypes in macrophages is influenced by many factors. Tumor cells affect the polarization of macrophages by regulating the expression of genes and proteins and the secretion of cytokines. The expression of some genes or proteins in macrophages is also related to their own polarization. Many natural products can reverse M2 polarization of macrophages which has been summarized in this review. CONCLUSION Regulation of macrophage polarization in TME can inhibit tumor development, and natural products have the potential to impede tumor development by regulating macrophage polarization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiu-Ping Liu
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology; Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Yu-Ying Chen
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology; Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Pei An
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology; Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Khalid Rahman
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Faculty of Science, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Xin Luan
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology; Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Hong Zhang
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology; Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China.
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The Emerging Role of Tumor Microenvironmental Stimuli in Regulating Metabolic Rewiring of Liver Cancer Stem Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 15:cancers15010005. [PMID: 36612000 PMCID: PMC9817521 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15010005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary liver cancer (PLC) is one of the most devastating cancers worldwide. Extensive phenotypical and functional heterogeneity is a cardinal hallmark of cancer, including PLC, and is related to the cancer stem cell (CSC) concept. CSCs are responsible for tumor growth, progression, relapse and resistance to conventional therapies. Metabolic reprogramming represents an emerging hallmark of cancer. Cancer cells, including CSCs, are very plastic and possess the dynamic ability to constantly shift between different metabolic states depending on various intrinsic and extrinsic stimuli, therefore amplifying the complexity of understanding tumor heterogeneity. Besides the well-known Warburg effect, several other metabolic pathways including lipids and iron metabolism are altered in PLC. An increasing number of studies supports the role of the surrounding tumor microenvironment (TME) in the metabolic control of liver CSCs. In this review, we discuss the complex metabolic rewiring affecting liver cancer cells and, in particular, liver CSCs. Moreover, we highlight the role of TME cellular and noncellular components in regulating liver CSC metabolic plasticity. Deciphering the specific mechanisms regulating liver CSC-TME metabolic interplay could be very helpful with respect to the development of more effective and innovative combinatorial therapies for PLC treatment.
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Niu ZS, Wang WH, Niu XJ. Recent progress in molecular mechanisms of postoperative recurrence and metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma. World J Gastroenterol 2022; 28:6433-6477. [PMID: 36569275 PMCID: PMC9782839 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v28.i46.6433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatectomy is currently considered the most effective option for treating patients with early and intermediate hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Unfortunately, the postoperative prognosis of patients with HCC remains unsatisfactory, predominantly because of high postoperative metastasis and recurrence rates. Therefore, research on the molecular mechanisms of postoperative HCC metastasis and recurrence will help develop effective intervention measures to prevent or delay HCC metastasis and recurrence and to improve the long-term survival of HCC patients. Herein, we review the latest research progress on the molecular mechanisms underlying postoperative HCC metastasis and recurrence to lay a foundation for improving the understanding of HCC metastasis and recurrence and for developing more precise prevention and intervention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhao-Shan Niu
- Laboratory of Micromorphology, School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, Shandong Province, China
| | - Wen-Hong Wang
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, Shandong Province, China
| | - Xiao-Jun Niu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Qingdao Shibei District People's Hospital, Qingdao 266033, Shandong Province, China
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Cancer Stem Cells in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Intrinsic and Extrinsic Molecular Mechanisms in Stemness Regulation. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232012327. [PMID: 36293184 PMCID: PMC9604119 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232012327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 09/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains the most predominant type of liver cancer with an extremely poor prognosis due to its late diagnosis and high recurrence rate. One of the culprits for HCC recurrence and metastasis is the existence of cancer stem cells (CSCs), which are a small subset of cancer cells possessing robust stem cell properties within tumors. CSCs play crucial roles in tumor heterogeneity constitution, tumorigenesis, tumor relapse, metastasis, and resistance to anti-cancer therapies. Elucidation of how these CSCs maintain their stemness features is essential for the development of CSCs-based therapy. In this review, we summarize the present knowledge of intrinsic molecules and signaling pathways involved in hepatic CSCs, especially the CSC surface markers and associated signaling in regulating the stemness characteristics and the heterogeneous subpopulations within the CSC pool. In addition, we recapitulate the effects of crucial extrinsic cellular components in the tumor microenvironment, including stromal cells and immune cells, on the modulation of hepatic CSCs. Finally, we synopsize the currently valuable CSCs-targeted therapy strategies based on intervention in these intrinsic and extrinsic molecular mechanisms, in the hope of shedding light on better clinical management of HCC patients.
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Delangre E, Oppliger E, Berkcan S, Gjorgjieva M, Correia de Sousa M, Foti M. S100 Proteins in Fatty Liver Disease and Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231911030. [PMID: 36232334 PMCID: PMC9570375 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231911030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a highly prevalent and slow progressing hepatic pathology characterized by different stages of increasing severity which can ultimately give rise to the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Besides drastic lifestyle changes, few drugs are effective to some extent alleviate NAFLD and HCC remains a poorly curable cancer. Among the deregulated molecular mechanisms promoting NAFLD and HCC, several members of the S100 proteins family appear to play an important role in the development of hepatic steatosis, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and HCC. Specific members of this Ca2+-binding protein family are indeed significantly overexpressed in either parenchymal or non-parenchymal liver cells, where they exert pleiotropic pathological functions driving NAFLD/NASH to severe stages and/or cancer development. The aberrant activity of S100 specific isoforms has also been reported to drive malignancy in liver cancers. Herein, we discuss the implication of several key members of this family, e.g., S100A4, S100A6, S100A8, S100A9 and S100A11, in NAFLD and HCC, with a particular focus on their intracellular versus extracellular functions in different hepatic cell types. Their clinical relevance as non-invasive diagnostic/prognostic biomarkers for the different stages of NAFLD and HCC, or their pharmacological targeting for therapeutic purpose, is further debated.
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Qin S, Wang Z, Huang C, Huang P, Li D. Serine protease PRSS23 drives gastric cancer by enhancing tumor associated macrophage infiltration via FGF2. Front Immunol 2022; 13:955841. [PMID: 36189305 PMCID: PMC9520605 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.955841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Serine proteases has been considered to be closely associated with the inflammatory response and tumor progression. As a novel serine protease, the biological function of PRSS23 is rarely studied in cancers. In this study, the prognostic significance of PRSS23 was analyzed in two-independent gastric cancer (GC) cohorts. PRSS23 overexpression was clinically correlated with poor prognosis and macrophage infiltration of GC patients. Loss-of-function study verified that PRSS23 plays oncogenic role in GC. RNA-seq, qRT-PCR, western blotting and ELISA assay confirmed that serine protease PRSS23 positively regulated FGF2 expression and secretion. Single-cell analysis and gene expression correlation analysis showed that PRSS23 and FGF2 were high expressed in fibroblasts, and highly co-expressed with the biomarkers of tumor associated macrophages (TAMs), cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and mesenchymal cells. Functional analysis confirmed PRSS23/FGF2 was required for TAM infiltration. Rescue assay further verified that PRSS23 promotes GC progression and TAM infiltration through FGF2. Survival analysis showed that high infiltration of M1-macrophage predicted favorable prognosis, while high infiltration level of M2-macrophage predicted poor prognosis in GC. Our finding highlights that PRSS23 promotes TAM infiltration through regulating FGF2 expression and secretion, thereby resulting in a poor prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanshan Qin
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Embryonic Stem Cell Research, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
- Laboratory of Tumor Biology, Academy of Bio-Medicine Research, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
| | - Zidi Wang
- Laboratory of Tumor Biology, Academy of Bio-Medicine Research, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
| | - Congcong Huang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Embryonic Stem Cell Research, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
- Laboratory of Tumor Biology, Academy of Bio-Medicine Research, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
| | - Pan Huang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Embryonic Stem Cell Research, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
- Laboratory of Tumor Biology, Academy of Bio-Medicine Research, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
| | - Dandan Li
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Embryonic Stem Cell Research, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
- Laboratory of Tumor Biology, Academy of Bio-Medicine Research, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
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Qu X, Zhao X, Lin K, Wang N, Li X, Li S, Zhang L, Shi Y. M2-like tumor-associated macrophage-related biomarkers to construct a novel prognostic signature, reveal the immune landscape, and screen drugs in hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Immunol 2022; 13:994019. [PMID: 36177006 PMCID: PMC9513313 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.994019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BackgroundM2-like tumor-associated macrophages (M2-like TAMs) have important roles in the progression and therapeutics of cancers. We aimed to detect novel M2-like TAM-related biomarkers in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) via integrative analysis of single-cell RNA-seq (scRNA-seq) and bulk RNA-seq data to construct a novel prognostic signature, reveal the “immune landscape”, and screen drugs in HCC.MethodsM2-like TAM-related genes were obtained by overlapping the marker genes of TAM identified from scRNA-seq data and M2 macrophage modular genes identified by weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) using bulk RNA-seq data. Univariate Cox regression and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression analyses were carried out to screen prognostic genes from M2-like TAM-related genes, followed by a construction of a prognostic signature, delineation of risk groups, and external validation of the prognostic signature. Analyses of immune cells, immune function, immune evasion scores, and immune-checkpoint genes between high- and low-risk groups were done to further reveal the immune landscape of HCC patients. To screen potential HCC therapeutic agents, analyses of gene–drug correlation and sensitivity to anti-cancer drugs were conducted.ResultsA total of 127 M2-like TAM-related genes were identified by integrative analysis of scRNA-seq and bulk-seq data. PDLIM3, PAM, PDLIM7, FSCN1, DPYSL2, ARID5B, LGALS3, and KLF2 were screened as prognostic genes in HCC by univariate Cox regression and LASSO regression analyses. Then, a prognostic signature was constructed and validated based on those genes for predicting the survival of HCC patients. In terms of drug screening, expression of PAM and LGALS3 was correlated positively with sensitivity to simvastatin and ARRY-162, respectively. Based on risk grouping, we predicted 10 anticancer drugs with high sensitivity in the high-risk group, with epothilone B having the lowest half-maximal inhibitory concentration among all drugs tested.ConclusionsOur findings enhance understanding of the M2-like TAM-related molecular mechanisms involved in HCC, reveal the immune landscape of HCC, and provide potential targets for HCC treatment.
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Cheng K, Cai N, Zhu J, Yang X, Liang H, Zhang W. Tumor-associated macrophages in liver cancer: From mechanisms to therapy. CANCER COMMUNICATIONS (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2022; 42:1112-1140. [PMID: 36069342 DOI: 10.1002/cac2.12345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Multidimensional analyses have demonstrated the presence of a unique tumor microenvironment (TME) in liver cancer. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are among the most abundant immune cells infiltrating the TME and are present at all stages of liver cancer progression, and targeting TAMs has become one of the most favored immunotherapy strategies. In addition, macrophages and liver cancer cells have distinct origins. At the early stage of liver cancer, macrophages can provide a niche for the maintenance of liver cancer stem cells. In contrast, cancer stem cells (CSCs) or poorly differentiated tumor cells are key factors modulating macrophage activation. In the present review, we first propose the origin connection between precursor macrophages and liver cancer cells. Macrophages undergo dynamic phenotypic transition during carcinogenesis. In this course of such transition, it is critical to determine the appropriate timing for therapy and block specific markers to suppress pro-tumoral TAMs. The present review provides a more detailed discussion of transition trends of such surface markers than previous reviews. Complex crosstalk occurs between TAMs and liver cancer cells. TAMs play indispensable roles in tumor progression, angiogenesis, and autophagy due to their heterogeneity and robust plasticity. In addition, macrophages in the TME interact with other immune cells by directing cell-to-cell contact or secreting various effector molecules. Similarly, tumor cells combined with other immune cells can drive macrophage recruitment and polarization. Despite the latest achievements and the advancements in treatment strategies following TAMs studies, comprehensive discussions on the communication between macrophages and cancer cells or immune cells in liver cancer are currently lacking. In this review, we discussed the interactions between TAMs and liver cancer cells (from cell origin to maturation), the latest therapeutic strategies (including chimeric antigen receptor macrophages), and critical clinical trials for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) to provide a rationale for further clinical investigation of TAMs as a potential target for treating patients with liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Cheng
- Hepatic Surgery Centre, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, P. R. China
| | - Ning Cai
- Hepatic Surgery Centre, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, P. R. China
| | - Jinghan Zhu
- Hepatic Surgery Centre, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, P. R. China
| | - Xing Yang
- Hepatic Surgery Centre, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, P. R. China
| | - Huifang Liang
- Hepatic Surgery Centre, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, P. R. China
| | - Wanguang Zhang
- Hepatic Surgery Centre, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, P. R. China
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Huang A, Lv B, Zhang Y, Yang J, Li J, Li C, Yu Z, Xia J. Construction of a tumor immune infiltration macrophage signature for predicting prognosis and immunotherapy response in liver cancer. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:983840. [PMID: 36120553 PMCID: PMC9479109 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.983840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer is an extraordinarily heterogeneous malignant disease. The tumor microenvironment (TME) and tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are the major drivers of liver cancer initiation and progression. It is critical to have a better understanding of the complicated interactions between liver cancer and the immune system for the development of cancer immunotherapy. Based on the gene expression profiles of tumor immune infiltration cells (TIICs), upregulated genes in TAMs and downregulated genes in other types of immune cells were identified as macrophage-specific genes (MSG). In this study, we combined MSG, immune subtypes, and clinical information on liver cancer to develop a tumor immune infiltration macrophage signature (TIMSig). A four-gene signature (S100A9, SLC22A15, TRIM54, and PPARGC1A) was identified as the TAM-related prognostic genes for liver cancer, independent of multiple clinicopathological parameters. Survival analyses showed that patients with low TIMSig had a superior survival rate than those with high TIMSig. Additionally, clinical immunotherapy response and TIMSig was observed as highly relevant. In addition, TIMSig could predict the response to chemotherapy. Collectively, the TIMSig could be a potential tool for risk-stratification, clinical decision making, treatment planning, and oncology immunotherapeutic drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anmin Huang
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Hepato-Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- Translational Medicine Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- The First Clinical Medical College, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Bei Lv
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yunjie Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Hepato-Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- Translational Medicine Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- The First Clinical Medical College, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Junhui Yang
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Hepato-Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- Translational Medicine Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- The First Clinical Medical College, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Jie Li
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Hepato-Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- Translational Medicine Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- The First Clinical Medical College, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Chengjun Li
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Hepato-Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- Translational Medicine Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- The First Clinical Medical College, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Zhijie Yu
- Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Zhijie Yu, ; Jinglin Xia,
| | - Jinglin Xia
- Key Laboratory of Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Hepato-Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- Department of Intervention, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Zhijie Yu, ; Jinglin Xia,
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Macrophages Are a Double-Edged Sword: Molecular Crosstalk between Tumor-Associated Macrophages and Cancer Stem Cells. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12060850. [PMID: 35740975 PMCID: PMC9221070 DOI: 10.3390/biom12060850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2022] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a subset of highly tumorigenic cells in tumors. They have enhanced self-renewal properties, are usually chemo-radioresistant, and can promote tumor recurrence and metastasis. They can recruit macrophages into the tumor microenvironment and differentiate them into tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). TAMs maintain CSC stemness and construct niches that are favorable for CSC survival. However, how CSCs and TAMs interact is not completely understood. An understanding on these mechanisms can provide additional targeting strategies for eliminating CSCs. In this review, we comprehensively summarize the reported mechanisms of crosstalk between CSCs and TAMs and update the related signaling pathways involved in tumor progression. In addition, we discuss potential therapies targeting CSC–TAM interaction, including targeting macrophage recruitment and polarization by CSCs and inhibiting the TAM-induced promotion of CSC stemness. This review also provides the perspective on the major challenge for developing potential therapeutic strategies to overcome CSC-TAM crosstalk.
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Li M, He L, Zhu J, Zhang P, Liang S. Targeting tumor-associated macrophages for cancer treatment. Cell Biosci 2022; 12:85. [PMID: 35672862 PMCID: PMC9172100 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-022-00823-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are abundant, nearly accounting for 30–50% of stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment. TAMs exhibit an immunosuppressive M2-like phenotype in advanced cancer, which plays a crucial role in tumor growth, invasion and migration, angiogenesis and immunosuppression. Consequently, the TAM-targeting therapies are particularly of significance in anti-cancer strategies. The application of TAMs as anti-cancer targets is expected to break through traditional tumor-associated therapies and achieves favorable clinical effect. However, the heterogeneity of TAMs makes the strategy of targeting TAMs variable and uncertain. Discovering the subset specificity of TAMs might be a future option for targeting TAMs therapy. Herein, the review focuses on highlighting the different modalities to modulate TAM’s functions, including promoting the phagocytosis of TAMs, TAMs depletion, blocking TAMs recruitment, TAMs reprogramming and suppressing immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. We also discuss about several ways to improve the efficacy of TAM-targeting therapy from the perspective of combination therapy and specificity of TAMs subgroups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengjun Li
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.17, 3rd Section of People's South Road, 610041, Chengdu, China
| | - Linye He
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.17, 3rd Section of People's South Road, 610041, Chengdu, China.,Department of Thyroid and Parathyroid Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Jing Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.17, 3rd Section of People's South Road, 610041, Chengdu, China
| | - Peng Zhang
- Department of Urinary Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Shufang Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.17, 3rd Section of People's South Road, 610041, Chengdu, China.
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Abstract
Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are abundant, nearly accounting for 30-50% of stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment. TAMs exhibit an immunosuppressive M2-like phenotype in advanced cancer, which plays a crucial role in tumor growth, invasion and migration, angiogenesis and immunosuppression. Consequently, the TAM-targeting therapies are particularly of significance in anti-cancer strategies. The application of TAMs as anti-cancer targets is expected to break through traditional tumor-associated therapies and achieves favorable clinical effect. However, the heterogeneity of TAMs makes the strategy of targeting TAMs variable and uncertain. Discovering the subset specificity of TAMs might be a future option for targeting TAMs therapy. Herein, the review focuses on highlighting the different modalities to modulate TAM's functions, including promoting the phagocytosis of TAMs, TAMs depletion, blocking TAMs recruitment, TAMs reprogramming and suppressing immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. We also discuss about several ways to improve the efficacy of TAM-targeting therapy from the perspective of combination therapy and specificity of TAMs subgroups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengjun Li
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.17, 3rd Section of People's South Road, 610041, Chengdu, China
| | - Linye He
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.17, 3rd Section of People's South Road, 610041, Chengdu, China
- Department of Thyroid and Parathyroid Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Jing Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.17, 3rd Section of People's South Road, 610041, Chengdu, China
| | - Peng Zhang
- Department of Urinary Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Shufang Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.17, 3rd Section of People's South Road, 610041, Chengdu, China.
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Low expression of moonlight gene ALAD is correlated with poor prognosis in hepatocellular carcinoma. Gene 2022; 825:146437. [PMID: 35318110 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2022.146437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Moonlighting genes may involve in the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and the establishment of a prognostic signature based on moonlighting genes may help predict the prognosis of HCC patients. METHODS This study aimed to construct a prognostic signature based on moonlighting genes in HCC and determine whether there is a correlation with tumor microenvironment or immune responses. Then we used HCC cell lines and an HCC cDNA microarray to illuminate the role of moonlighting gene in prognosis of HCC. RESULTS We constructed an original prognostic signature based on eight moonlighting genes (ABCB1, S100A9, NCL, PRDX6, ALAD, YBX1, POU2F1, RPL5) with strong prognosis prediction capability. The prognostic signature may demonstrate the immune status of patients with HCC, because high-risk subgroups had significantly higher scores for regulatory T cells, dendritic cells, T follicular helper cells, macrophages, and major histocompatibility complex-I, and different expression levels of immune checkpoint molecules. Importantly, patients in the high-risk subgroup exhibited higher tumor immune dysfunction and exclusion scores, suggesting that they might be less sensitive to immunotherapy. The roles of ABCB1, S100A9, NCL, PRDX6, YBX1, and POU2F1 in HCC have been reported. However, there have been no reports on the association between ALAD and HCC. Then we used bioinformatics to confirm that ALAD expression was lower in HCC and low expression of ALAD was an indicator of poor prognosis. Moreover, we found that ALAD expression was lower in HCC cells than that in normal human hepatocytes or tumor-adjacent tissues, it was negatively correlated with the pathological grade, and low expression of ALAD was related to poor prognosis in patients with HCC. CONCLUSION We have successfully established a novel prognostic signature based on moonlighting genes, with a strong predictive capability for prognosis, immune status, and possible response to immunotherapy. Additionally, we have identified ALAD as a prognostic biomarker for HCC.
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Wang T, Dai L, Shen S, Yang Y, Yang M, Yang X, Qiu Y, Wang W. Comprehensive Molecular Analyses of a Macrophage-Related Gene Signature With Regard to Prognosis, Immune Features, and Biomarkers for Immunotherapy in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Based on WGCNA and the LASSO Algorithm. Front Immunol 2022; 13:843408. [PMID: 35693827 PMCID: PMC9186446 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.843408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Macrophages have been reported to exert a crucial role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This study aimed to explore the macrophage-related genes and establish a macrophage-related signature (MRS) model to predict the overall survival (OS) of patients with HCC based on these genes’ expression. We screened the macrophage-related gene module by weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA), the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) Cox regression analysis was utilized for further selection, and the selected genes were entered into stepwise regression to develop the MRS model, which was further validated in the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC) datasets. We analyzed the biological phenotypes associated with macrophages in terms of functional enrichment, tumor immune signature, and tumor mutational signature. The patient’s response to immunotherapy was inferred by the tumor immune dysfunction and exclusion (TIDE) score, the immunophenotype score (IPS), and the IMvigor210 dataset. A novel MRS model was established based on the LASSO regression coefficients of the genes PON1, IL15RA, NEIL3, HILPDA, PFN2, HAVCR1, ANXA10, CDCA8, EPO, S100A9, TTK, KLRB1, SPP1, STC2, CYP26B1, GPC1, G6PD, and CBX2. In either dataset, MRS was identified as an independent risk factor for OS in HCC patients. Additionally, our research indicated that a high-risk score in the MRS model was significantly correlated with tumor staging, pathological grade, tumor–node–metastasis (TNM) stage, and survival. Several genes of the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) family and immune checkpoints were highly expressed in the high-risk group. In addition, the frequency of tumor mutations was also higher in the high-risk group. According to our analyses, a higher risk score in the MRS model may predict a better response to immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Wang
- Department of Liver Surgery and Liver Transplantation Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Liqun Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Shu Shen
- Department of Liver Surgery and Liver Transplantation Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yi Yang
- Department of Liver Surgery and Liver Transplantation Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ming Yang
- Department of Liver Surgery and Liver Transplantation Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xianwei Yang
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
| | - Yiwen Qiu
- Department of Liver Surgery and Liver Transplantation Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wentao Wang
- Department of Liver Surgery and Liver Transplantation Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Wentao Wang,
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Mechanism of cancer stemness maintenance in human liver cancer. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:394. [PMID: 35449193 PMCID: PMC9023565 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-04848-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Primary liver cancer mainly includes the following four types: hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), hepatoblastoma (HB), and combined hepatocellular carcinoma and cholangiocarcinoma (cHCC-CCA). Recent studies have indicated that there are differences in cancer stem cell (CSC) properties among different types of liver cancer. Liver cancer stem cells (LCSCs), also called liver tumor-initiating cells, have been viewed as drivers of tumor initiation and metastasis. Many mechanisms and factors, such as mitophagy, mitochondrial dynamics, epigenetic modifications, the tumor microenvironment, and tumor plasticity, are involved in the regulation of cancer stemness in liver cancer. In this review, we analyze cancer stemness in different liver cancer types. Moreover, we further evaluate the mechanism of cancer stemness maintenance of LCSCs and discuss promising treatments for eradicating LCSCs.
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Wang Y, Yang Y, Zhao Z, Sun H, Luo D, Huttad L, Zhang B, Han B. A new nomogram model for prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma based on novel gene signature that regulates cross-talk between immune and tumor cells. BMC Cancer 2022; 22:379. [PMID: 35397536 PMCID: PMC8994280 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-022-09465-9] [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: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The combined application of immune cells and specific biomarkers related to the tumor immune microenvironment has a better predictive value for the prognosis of HCC. The purpose of this study is to construct a new prognostic model based on immune-related genes that regulate cross-talk between immune and tumor cells to assess the prognosis and explore possible mechanisms. Method The immune cell abundance ratio of 424 cases in the TCGA-LIHC database is obtained through the CIBERSORT algorithm. The differential gene analysis and cox regression analysis is used to screen IRGs. In addition, the function of IRGs was preliminarily explored through the co-culture of M2 macrophages and HCC cell lines. The clinical validation, nomogram establishment and performing tumor microenvironment score were validated. Results We identified 4 immune cells and 9 hub genes related to the prognosis. Further, we identified S100A9, CD79B, TNFRSF11B as an IRGs signature, which is verified in the ICGC and GSE76427 database. Importantly, IRGs signature is closely related to the prognosis, tumor microenvironment score, clinical characteristics and immunotherapy, and nomogram combined with clinical characteristics is more conducive to clinical promotion. In addition, after co-culture with M2 macrophages, the migration capacity and cell pseudopod of MHCC97H increased significantly. And CD79B and TNFRSF11B were significantly down-regulated in MHCC97H, Huh7 and LM3, while S100A9 was up-regulated. Conclusion We constructed an IRGs signature and discussed possible mechanisms. The nomogram established based on IRGs can accurately predict the prognosis of HCC patients. These findings may provide a suitable therapeutic target for HCC. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12885-022-09465-9.
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Wu D, Liu X, Mu J, Yang J, Wu F, Zhou H. Therapeutic Approaches Targeting Proteins in Tumor-Associated Macrophages and Their Applications in Cancers. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12030392. [PMID: 35327584 PMCID: PMC8945446 DOI: 10.3390/biom12030392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) promote tumor proliferation, invasion, angiogenesis, stemness, therapeutic resistance, and immune tolerance in a protein-dependent manner. Therefore, the traditional target paradigms are often insufficient to exterminate tumor cells. These pro-tumoral functions are mediated by the subsets of macrophages that exhibit canonical protein markers, while simultaneously having unique transcriptional features, which makes the proteins expressed on TAMs promising targets during anti-tumor therapy. Herein, TAM-associated protein-dependent target strategies were developed with the aim of either reducing the numbers of TAMs or inhibiting the pro-tumoral functions of TAMs. Furthermore, the recent advances in TAMs associated with tumor metabolism and immunity were extensively exploited to repolarize these TAMs to become anti-tumor elements and reverse the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. In this review, we systematically summarize these current studies to fully illustrate the TAM-associated protein targets and their inhibitors, and we highlight the potential clinical applications of targeting the crosstalk among TAMs, tumor cells, and immune cells in anti-tumor therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deyang Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Frontier Innovation Center for Dental Medicine Plus, Department of Oral Medicine, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (D.W.); (J.M.); (J.Y.)
| | - Xiaowei Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, West China College of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China;
| | - Jingtian Mu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Frontier Innovation Center for Dental Medicine Plus, Department of Oral Medicine, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (D.W.); (J.M.); (J.Y.)
| | - Jin Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Frontier Innovation Center for Dental Medicine Plus, Department of Oral Medicine, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (D.W.); (J.M.); (J.Y.)
| | - Fanglong Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Frontier Innovation Center for Dental Medicine Plus, Department of Oral Medicine, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (D.W.); (J.M.); (J.Y.)
- Correspondence: (F.W.); (H.Z.)
| | - Hongmei Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Frontier Innovation Center for Dental Medicine Plus, Department of Oral Medicine, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China; (D.W.); (J.M.); (J.Y.)
- Correspondence: (F.W.); (H.Z.)
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Liang C, Huang M, Li T, Li L, Sussman H, Dai Y, Siemann DW, Xie M, Tang X. Towards an integrative understanding of cancer mechanobiology: calcium, YAP, and microRNA under biophysical forces. SOFT MATTER 2022; 18:1112-1148. [PMID: 35089300 DOI: 10.1039/d1sm01618k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
An increasing number of studies have demonstrated the significant roles of the interplay between microenvironmental mechanics in tissues and biochemical-genetic activities in resident tumor cells at different stages of tumor progression. Mediated by molecular mechano-sensors or -transducers, biomechanical cues in tissue microenvironments are transmitted into the tumor cells and regulate biochemical responses and gene expression through mechanotransduction processes. However, the molecular interplay between the mechanotransduction processes and intracellular biochemical signaling pathways remains elusive. This paper reviews the recent advances in understanding the crosstalk between biomechanical cues and three critical biochemical effectors during tumor progression: calcium ions (Ca2+), yes-associated protein (YAP), and microRNAs (miRNAs). We address the molecular mechanisms underpinning the interplay between the mechanotransduction pathways and each of the three effectors. Furthermore, we discuss the functional interactions among the three effectors in the context of soft matter and mechanobiology. We conclude by proposing future directions on studying the tumor mechanobiology that can employ Ca2+, YAP, and miRNAs as novel strategies for cancer mechanotheraputics. This framework has the potential to bring insights into the development of novel next-generation cancer therapies to suppress and treat tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenyu Liang
- Department of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering (HWCOE), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.
- UF Health Cancer Center (UFHCC), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Miao Huang
- Department of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering (HWCOE), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.
- UF Health Cancer Center (UFHCC), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Tianqi Li
- UF Health Cancer Center (UFHCC), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine (COM), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.
| | - Lu Li
- UF Health Cancer Center (UFHCC), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine (COM), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.
| | - Hayley Sussman
- Department of Radiation Oncology, COM, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Yao Dai
- UF Health Cancer Center (UFHCC), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
- UF Genetics Institute (UFGI), University of Florida (UF), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Dietmar W Siemann
- UF Health Cancer Center (UFHCC), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
- UF Genetics Institute (UFGI), University of Florida (UF), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Mingyi Xie
- UF Health Cancer Center (UFHCC), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine (COM), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering (COE), University of Delaware (UD), Newark, DE, 19716, USA
| | - Xin Tang
- Department of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering (HWCOE), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.
- UF Health Cancer Center (UFHCC), Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
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Yan J, Huang YJ, Huang QY, Liu PX, Wang CS. Transcriptional activation of S100A2 expression by HIF-1α via binding to the hypomethylated hypoxia response elements in HCC cells. Mol Carcinog 2022; 61:494-507. [PMID: 35107180 DOI: 10.1002/mc.23393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most prevalent and lethal cancers. Dysregulation of S100A2 has recently been found in many cancers including HCC. However, its regulatory mechanism in HCC remains poorly understood, especially in hypoxia. In this study, we found that S100A2 is upregulated and correlated with the clinicopathological features of HCC patients. Moreover, the elevated S100A2 showed worse overall survival. Functionally, S100A2 inhibition decreased the proliferation and migration of HepG2 cells. Interestingly, we found that HIF-1α directly binds to hypoxia response elements (HREs) of the S100A2 promoter region. S100A2 expression could be induced in an HIF-1α-dependent manner under hypoxia. Furthermore, S100A2 silencing significantly suppressed HCC cell proliferation and invasion under hypoxia. Mechanistically, pyrosequencing results showed that the hypomethylation status of CpG located in the HRE at the S100A2 promoter was correlated with S100A2 induction. Additionally, HIF-1α- mediated S100A2 activation was associated with TET2-related epigenetic inactivation. TET2 was enriched in the HRE of the S100A2 promoter in HepG2 cells. Finally, S100A2 methylation-related genes and pathways were analyzed. We found that the methylation of S100A2 is correlated with ANXA2, PPP1R15A, and FOS, which include in a hypoxia-related gene set from the GSEA database. Moreover, some EMT-related genes are associated with the methylation of S100A2 in HCC. Conclusively, our study thus uncovered a novel mechanism showing that hypoxia/HIF-1α signaling associated with DNA methylation enhances S100A2 expression in HCC. S100A2 may be useful as a target for facilitating novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies in liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Regulation and Breeding of Grassland Livestock, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, China.,College of Life Science, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, China
| | - Ya Jun Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Regulation and Breeding of Grassland Livestock, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, China
| | - Qing Yu Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Regulation and Breeding of Grassland Livestock, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, China
| | - Peng Xia Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Regulation and Breeding of Grassland Livestock, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, China.,College of Life Science, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, China
| | - Chang Shan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Regulation and Breeding of Grassland Livestock, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, China.,College of Life Science, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, China
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Cao J, Zhang R, Zhang Y, Wang Y. Combined screening analysis of aberrantly methylated-differentially expressed genes and pathways in hepatocellular carcinoma. J Gastrointest Oncol 2022; 13:311-325. [PMID: 35284134 PMCID: PMC8899745 DOI: 10.21037/jgo-21-866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Methylation plays an important role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) by altering the expression of key genes. The aim of this study was to screen the aberrantly methylated-differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in HCC and elucidate their underlying molecular mechanism. METHODS Gene expression microarrays (GSE101685) and gene methylation microarrays (GSE44909) were selected. DEGs and differentially methylated genes (DMGs) were screened. Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses were performed using the Database for Annotation, Visualization, and Integrated discovery (DAVID). The Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes (STRING) database was used to analyze the functional protein-protein interaction (PPI) network. Molecular Complex Detection (MCODE) analysis was performed using the Cytoscape software. Hub genes were verified in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. RESULTS A total of 80 hypomethylation-high expression genes (Hypo-HGs) were identified. Pathway enrichment analysis showed DNA replication, cell cycle, viral carcinogenesis, and the spliceosome. The top 5 hub genes were minichromosome maintenance complex component 3 (MCM3), checkpoint kinase 1 (CHEK1), kinesin family member 11 (KIF11), PDZ binding kinase (PBK), and Rac GTPase activating protein 1 (RACGAP1). In addition, 189 hypermethylation-low expression genes (Hyper-LGs) were identified. Pathway enrichment analysis indicated enrichment in metabolic pathways, drug metabolism-other enzymes, and chemical carcinogenesis. The top 5 hub genes were leukocyte immunoglobulin like receptor B2 (LILRB2), formyl peptide receptor 1 (FPR1), S100 calcium binding protein A9 (S100A9), S100 calcium binding protein A8 (S100A8), and myeloid cell nuclear differentiation antigen (MNDA). The methylation status and mRNA expression of MCM3, CHEK1, KIF11, PBK, and S100A9 were consistent in the TCGA database and significantly correlated with the prognosis of patients. CONCLUSIONS Combined screening of aberrantly methylated-DEGs based on bioinformatic analysis may provide new clues for elucidating the epigenetic mechanism in HCC. Hub genes, including MCM3, CHEK1, KIF11, PBK, and S100A9, may serve as biomarkers for the precise diagnosis of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jisen Cao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Third Central Hospital of Tianjin, Tianjin, China
| | - Ruiqiang Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, General Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Ye Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Third Central Hospital of Tianjin, Tianjin, China
| | - Yijun Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Third Central Hospital of Tianjin, Tianjin, China
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Zhu S, Yi M, Wu Y, Dong B, Wu K. Roles of tumor-associated macrophages in tumor progression: implications on therapeutic strategies. Exp Hematol Oncol 2021; 10:60. [PMID: 34965886 PMCID: PMC8715617 DOI: 10.1186/s40164-021-00252-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Macrophages are heterogeneous cells that present as different functional phenotypes due to their plasticity. They can be classified into two categories, namely M1- and M2-like macrophages, which are involved in processes as diverse as anti-tumor activity and immunosuppressive tumor promotion. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are defined as being of an M2-type and are considered as the active component in tumor microenvironment. TAMs are involved in multiple processes of tumor progression through the expression of cytokines, chemokines, growth factors, protein hydrolases and more, which lead to enhance tumor cell proliferation, angiogenesis, and immunosuppression, which in turn supports invasion and metastasis. It is assumed that the abundance of TAMs in major solid tumors is correlated to a negative patient prognosis. Because of the currently available data of the TAMs’ role in tumor development, these cells have emerged as a promising target for novel cancer treatment strategies. In this paper, we will briefly describe the origins and types of TAMs and will try to comprehensively show how TAMs contribute to tumorigenesis and disease progression. Finally, we will present the main TAM-based therapeutic strategies currently available.
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Luo HL, Luo T, Liu JJ, Wu FX, Bai T, Ou C, Chen J, Li LQ, Zhong JH. Macrophage polarization-associated lnc-Ma301 interacts with caprin-1 to inhibit hepatocellular carcinoma metastasis through the Akt/Erk1 pathway. Cancer Cell Int 2021; 21:422. [PMID: 34376192 PMCID: PMC8353734 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-021-02133-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) promotes migration, invasion, and metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells. The molecular mechanisms behind EMT and metastasis in HCC remain unclear. Methods Microarray analysis was used to identify lncRNAs expression during polarization of U937 macrophages from M2 to M1 phenotype. The expression of the identified lncRNA was compared between clinical samples of HCC tissues or adjacent normal tissues, as well as between HCC and normal liver cell lines. lnc-Ma301 was overexpressed or knocked-down in HCC cell lines, and the effects were assessed in vitro and in vivo. Interactions among lnc-Ma301 and its potential downstream targets caprin-1 were investigated in HCC cell lines. Effects of lnc-Ma301 over- and underexpression on the Akt/Erk1 signaling pathways were examined. Results Microarray analyses identified lnc-Ma301 as one of the most overexpressed long non-coding RNAs during polarization of U937 macrophages from M2 to M1 phenotype. Lnc-Ma301 showed lower expression in HCC tissues than in adjacent normal tissues, and lower expression was associated with worse prognosis. Activation of lnc-Ma301 inhibited cell proliferation, migration and EMT in HCC cell cultures, and it inhibited lung metastasis of HCC tumors in mice. Mechanistic studies suggested that lnc-Ma301 interacts with caprin-1 to inhibit HCC metastasis and EMT through Akt/Erk1 pathway. Conclusions Lnc-Ma301 may help regulate onset and metastasis of HCC. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12935-021-02133-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Lin Luo
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, He Di Rd 71, Nanning, 530021, People's Republic of China.,Key Laboratory of High-Incidence Tumor Early Prevention and Treatment, Ministry of Education, Nanning, 530021, People's Republic of China
| | - Tao Luo
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, He Di Rd 71, Nanning, 530021, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun-Jie Liu
- Department of Ultrasound, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, 530021, People's Republic of China
| | - Fei-Xiang Wu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, He Di Rd 71, Nanning, 530021, People's Republic of China
| | - Tao Bai
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, He Di Rd 71, Nanning, 530021, People's Republic of China
| | - Chao Ou
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, 530021, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, He Di Rd 71, Nanning, 530021, People's Republic of China
| | - Le-Qun Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, He Di Rd 71, Nanning, 530021, People's Republic of China. .,Key Laboratory of High-Incidence Tumor Early Prevention and Treatment, Ministry of Education, Nanning, 530021, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jian-Hong Zhong
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, He Di Rd 71, Nanning, 530021, People's Republic of China.
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Ren X, Ju Y, Wang C, Wei R, Sun H, Zhang Q. MARCKS on Tumor-Associated Macrophages is Correlated with Immune Infiltrates and Poor Prognosis in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancer Invest 2021; 39:756-768. [PMID: 34279157 DOI: 10.1080/07357907.2021.1950757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma is the fourth most common cause of cancer-related death. However, the cross-talk between tumor immune microenvironment and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains unclear. MATERIAL AND METHODS We analyzed the expression of miR-143-3p in exosomes from different HCC cell lines. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) co-cultured with HCC cell lines were overlapped with miR-143-3p target genes. We used the Oncomine, Kaplan-Meier plotter, and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) databases to assess Myristoylated alanine-rich C-kinase substrate (MARCKS) expression in various types of cancers. The relationship between patient clinicopathological characteristics and MARCKS expression level was identified using the Kaplan-Meier plotter database. Last, we analyzed how MARCKS expression correlated with immune infiltration makers using the TCGA database, Tumor IMmune Estimation Resource (TIMER), and Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA). RESULTS Exosomal miR-143-3p was elevated after IL-6 treatment in the HCC cell line. MARCKS, a target gene of miR-143-3p, was up-regulated in Tumor-associated macrophages co-cultured with high-metastatic-potential HCC cell line. MARCKS expression was identified as significantly correlated with outcome in multiple types of cancer, especially in HCC. High MARCKS expression level was associated with poorer overall survival (OS), Progress-free survival (PFS), and also with patient gender, race, hepatitis virus background, stage, grade, AJCC_T, and vascular invasion. MARCKS was positively associated with levels of T follicular helper cells (TFH) (R = .48, p < .001), T helper type 2 (Th2) cells (R = .47, p < .001), macrophages (R = .41, p ≤ .001), T helper cells (R = .40, p < .001), T helper type 1 (Th1) cells (R = .38, p < .001), T cells (R = .34, p < .001), NK CD56bright cells (R = .34, p < .001) and immature DC (iDC) (R = .33, p < .001), and negatively associated with levels of T helper 17 (Th17) cells. Also, MARCKS may influence the M2 polarization and immune escape. CONCLUSION The present study suggests that MARCKS on TAMs is associated with poor prognosis and immune cell infiltration in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xudong Ren
- Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanqin Ju
- Department of Stomotology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chaoqun Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ran Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Haoting Sun
- Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Quanbao Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Cui C, Zhang Y, Liu G, Zhang S, Zhang J, Wang X. Advances in the study of cancer metastasis and calcium signaling as potential therapeutic targets. EXPLORATION OF TARGETED ANTI-TUMOR THERAPY 2021; 2:266-291. [PMID: 36046433 PMCID: PMC9400724 DOI: 10.37349/etat.2021.00046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Metastasis is still the primary cause of cancer-related mortality. However, the underlying mechanisms of cancer metastasis are not yet fully understood. Currently, the epithelial-mesenchymal transition, metabolic remodeling, cancer cell intercommunication and the tumor microenvironment including diverse stromal cells, are reported to affect the metastatic process of cancer cells. Calcium ions (Ca2+) are ubiquitous second messengers that manipulate cancer metastasis by affecting signaling pathways. Diverse transporter/pump/channel-mediated Ca2+ currents form Ca2+ oscillations that can be decoded by Ca2+-binding proteins, which are promising prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets of cancer metastasis. This paper presents a review of the advances in research on the mechanisms underlying cancer metastasis and the roles of Ca2+-related signals in these events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaochu Cui
- Henan Key Laboratory of Medical Tissue Regeneration, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453003, Henan, China
| | - Yongxi Zhang
- Department of Oncology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453003, Henan, China
| | - Gang Liu
- Henan Key Laboratory of Medical Tissue Regeneration, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453003, Henan, China
| | - Shuhong Zhang
- Henan Key Laboratory of Medical Tissue Regeneration, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453003, Henan, China
| | - Jinghang Zhang
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453003, Henan, China
| | - Xianwei Wang
- Henan Key Laboratory of Medical Tissue Regeneration, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453003, Henan, China
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Zhang X, Zhu M, Hong Z, Chen C. Co-culturing polarized M2 Thp-1-derived macrophages enhance stemness of lung adenocarcinoma A549 cells. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2021; 9:709. [PMID: 33987407 PMCID: PMC8106048 DOI: 10.21037/atm-21-1256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Background The tumor microenvironment (TME) is highly associated with cancer stem cells, and affects tumor initiation, progression, and metastasis. This study aimed to explore the underlying molecular mechanism of induction of A549 cancer cell stemness by THP-1-derived macrophages. Method The Hedgehog inhibitor (Vismodegib), Notch inhibitor Gamma Secretase Inhibitor (GSI), and Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (STAT3) inhibitor Cucurbitacin I (JSI-124) were added separately into the co-culture system of A549 cancer cell with THP-1-derived macrophages. Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay and the Cell-IQ continuous surveillance system were used to examine the cell growth and morphological changes of A549 cells. The messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) and protein expression levels of stem cell markers were respectively analyzed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and western blotting, and the activity of Acetaldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) enzyme was assessed by flow cytometry analysis. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and qRT-PCR assays were performed to evaluate the activation and differentiation of macrophages. Results Results showed that the proliferation and stemness of A549 cells were significantly enhanced by co-culturing with THP-1-derived macrophages. The expression levels of Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) and Interleukin-6 (IL-6) in macrophages were notably increased after co-culturing with A549 cells. Meanwhile, co-culturing with A549 cells induced the polarization of macrophages towards the M2 phenotype. Moreover, the inhibitors could reduce the proliferation and stemness of the co-culture system, and decrease the expression of TGF-β and IL-6. Conclusions These results suggested that co-culturing A549 cells with THP-1-derived macrophages could induce the stemness of A549 cells via multiple pro-tumorigenic pathways. Thus, inhibition of the interaction between macrophages and lung cancer stem cells may be a viable target for lung cancer treatment in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaocheng Zhang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Mingyang Zhu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Zipu Hong
- Department of Traumatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Chengshui Chen
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
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