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Wang Y, Jia J, Wang F, Fang Y, Yang Y, Zhou Q, Yuan W, Gu X, Hu J, Yang S. Pre-metastatic niche: formation, characteristics and therapeutic implication. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:236. [PMID: 39317708 PMCID: PMC11422510 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01937-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 06/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 09/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Distant metastasis is a primary cause of mortality and contributes to poor surgical outcomes in cancer patients. Before the development of organ-specific metastasis, the formation of a pre-metastatic niche is pivotal in promoting the spread of cancer cells. This review delves into the intricate landscape of the pre-metastatic niche, focusing on the roles of tumor-derived secreted factors, extracellular vesicles, and circulating tumor cells in shaping the metastatic niche. The discussion encompasses cellular elements such as macrophages, neutrophils, bone marrow-derived suppressive cells, and T/B cells, in addition to molecular factors like secreted substances from tumors and extracellular vesicles, within the framework of pre-metastatic niche formation. Insights into the temporal mechanisms of pre-metastatic niche formation such as epithelial-mesenchymal transition, immunosuppression, extracellular matrix remodeling, metabolic reprogramming, vascular permeability and angiogenesis are provided. Furthermore, the landscape of pre-metastatic niche in different metastatic organs like lymph nodes, lungs, liver, brain, and bones is elucidated. Therapeutic approaches targeting the cellular and molecular components of pre-metastatic niche, as well as interventions targeting signaling pathways such as the TGF-β, VEGF, and MET pathways, are highlighted. This review aims to enhance our understanding of pre-metastatic niche dynamics and provide insights for developing effective therapeutic strategies to combat tumor metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhang Wang
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 1 East Jianshe Road, Zhengzhou, 450000, China
| | - Jiachi Jia
- College of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Fuqi Wang
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 1 East Jianshe Road, Zhengzhou, 450000, China
| | - Yingshuai Fang
- College of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Yabing Yang
- College of Medicine, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Quanbo Zhou
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 1 East Jianshe Road, Zhengzhou, 450000, China
| | - Weitang Yuan
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 1 East Jianshe Road, Zhengzhou, 450000, China
| | - Xiaoming Gu
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 1 East Jianshe Road, Zhengzhou, 450000, China.
| | - Junhong Hu
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 1 East Jianshe Road, Zhengzhou, 450000, China.
| | - Shuaixi Yang
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, 1 East Jianshe Road, Zhengzhou, 450000, China.
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2
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Katiyarangsan W, Charoenphun P, Chuamsaamarkkee K, Musikarat S, Kiranantawat K, Sakulpisuti C, Thamnirat K, Kositwattanarerk A, Sritara C, Chamroonrat W. Characterizing Normal Upper Extremity Lymphatic Flow with 99mTc In-House Dextran: A Retrospective Study. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:1960. [PMID: 39272744 PMCID: PMC11393990 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14171960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2024] [Revised: 08/14/2024] [Accepted: 08/23/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Lymphoscintigraphy evaluates the lymphatic system using radiocolloid compounds like 99mTc-sulfur colloid and 99mTc-nanocolloid, which vary in particle size and distribution timing. A local in-house Dextran kit (15-40 nm) was developed in 2005 and began clinical use in 2008 to localize sentinel lymph nodes; diagnose lymphedema; and detect lymphatic leakage. The normal drainage pattern remains unexplored. We retrospectively analyzed 84 upper extremity lymphoscintigraphies from 2008 to 2021. 99mTc in-house Dextran was intradermally injected into both hands, followed by whole-body imaging at specified intervals (≤15 min; 16-30 min; 31-45 min; 46-60 min), with some receiving delayed imaging. Visual and quantitative analyses recorded axillary and forearm lymph nodes and liver, kidney, and urinary bladder activity. Results showed 92% (77/84) upper extremity lymphatic tract visualization within 45 min. Axillary node detection rates increased from 46% (≤15 min) to 86% (46-60 min). Delayed imaging further revealed nodes. Epitrochlear or brachial node visualization was rare (4%, 3/84). Hepatic, renal, and urinary bladder activity was noted in 54%, 71%, and 93% at 1 h, respectively. The axillary node uptake ratio was minimal (<2.5% of injection site activity; median 0.33%). This study characterizes normal upper extremity lymphatic drainage using 99mTc in-house Dextran, offering insights into its clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wiroj Katiyarangsan
- Division of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Diagnostic and Therapeutic Radiology, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
- Division of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Radiology, Maha Vajiralongkorn Thanyaburi Hospital, Pathum Thani 12110, Thailand
| | - Putthiporn Charoenphun
- Division of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Diagnostic and Therapeutic Radiology, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
- Master of Science Program in Medical Physics, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Krisanat Chuamsaamarkkee
- Division of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Diagnostic and Therapeutic Radiology, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
- Master of Science Program in Medical Physics, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Suchawadee Musikarat
- Division of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Diagnostic and Therapeutic Radiology, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Kidakorn Kiranantawat
- Division of Plastic and Maxillofacial Surgery, Department Surgery, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Chaninart Sakulpisuti
- Division of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Diagnostic and Therapeutic Radiology, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Kanungnij Thamnirat
- Division of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Diagnostic and Therapeutic Radiology, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Arpakorn Kositwattanarerk
- Division of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Diagnostic and Therapeutic Radiology, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Chanika Sritara
- Division of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Diagnostic and Therapeutic Radiology, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Wichana Chamroonrat
- Division of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Diagnostic and Therapeutic Radiology, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
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3
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García-Silva S, Peinado H. Mechanisms of lymph node metastasis: An extracellular vesicle perspective. Eur J Cell Biol 2024; 103:151447. [PMID: 39116620 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2024.151447] [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: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 07/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
In several solid tumors such as breast cancer, prostate cancer, colorectal cancer or melanoma, tumor draining lymph nodes are the earliest tissues where colonization by tumor cells is detected. Lymph nodes act as sentinels of metastatic dissemination, the deadliest phase of tumor progression. Besides hematogenous dissemination, lymphatic spread of tumor cells has been demonstrated, adding more complexity to the mechanisms involved in metastasis. A network of blood and lymphatic vessels surrounds tumors providing routes for tumor soluble factors to mediate regional and long-distance effects. Additionally, extracellular vesicles (EVs), particularly small EVs/exosomes, have been shown to circulate through the blood and lymph, favoring the formation of pre-metastatic niches in the tumor-draining lymph nodes (TDLNs) and distant organs. In this review, we present an overview of the relevance of lymph node metastasis, the structural and immune changes occurring in TDLNs during tumor progression, and how extracellular vesicles contribute to modulating some of these alterations while promoting the formation of lymph node pre-metastatic niches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susana García-Silva
- Microenvironment and Metastasis Laboratory, Molecular Oncology Programme, Spanish National Cancer Research Center (CNIO), Madrid, Spain.
| | - Héctor Peinado
- Microenvironment and Metastasis Laboratory, Molecular Oncology Programme, Spanish National Cancer Research Center (CNIO), Madrid, Spain
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Zhan F, Zhang R, Qiu L, Ren Y. ACAP3 negatively regulated by HDAC2 inhibits the malignant development of papillary thyroid carcinoma cells. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2024; 174:106635. [PMID: 39098591 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2024.106635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2024] [Revised: 07/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/28/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024]
Abstract
ArfGAP with coiled-coil, ankyrin repeat and PH domains 3 (ACAP3) level has been confirmed to be downregulated in papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). Histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACIs) have therapeutic effects on PTC. Accordingly, this study probed into the potential relation of histone deacetylase 2 (HDAC2) and ACAP3 in PTC. Expressions of ACAP3 and HDAC2 in PTC were investigated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The relationship between HDAC2 and ACAP3 was predicted by Pearson analysis. Cell functional assays (cell counting kit-8, transwell, wound healing and flow cytometry assays) and rescue assay were carried out to determine the effects of HDAC2/ACAP3 axis on biological behaviors of PTC cells. Expressions of apoptosis-, epithelial-mesenchymal transition-, Protein Kinase B (AKT)-, and P53-related proteins were measured by Western blot. ACAP3 level was downregulated in PTC tissues and cells. ACAP3 overexpression (oe-ACAP3) suppressed viability, proliferation, migration and invasion of PTC cells, facilitated apoptosis, downregulated the expressions of Protein Kinase B (Bcl-2) and N-cadherin, upregulated the expressions of Bcl-2 associated protein X (Bax) and E-cadherin, diminished the p-AKT/AKT ratio and elevated the p-p53/p53 ratio; however, ACAP3 silencing or HDAC2 overexpression (oe-HDAC2) did the opposite. HDAC2 negatively correlated with ACAP3. The tumor-suppressing effect of oe-ACAP3 in PTC was reversed by oe-HDAC2. Collectively, ACAP3 negatively regulated by HDAC2 suppresses the proliferation and metastasis while facilitating apoptosis of PTC cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fenfen Zhan
- Endocrinology department, The Second Affiliated Hospital Zhejiang University School of Medicine, China; Endocrinology department, Sanmen People's Hospital, China
| | - Ronghui Zhang
- Pathology department, Sanmen People's Hospital, China
| | - Lanlan Qiu
- Pathology department, Sanmen People's Hospital, China
| | - Yuezhong Ren
- Endocrinology department, The Second Affiliated Hospital Zhejiang University School of Medicine, China.
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5
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Yang W, Wu Z, Cai S, Li Z, Wang W, Wu J, Luo H, Ye X. Tumor lymphangiogenesis index reveals the immune landscape and immunotherapy response in lung adenocarcinoma. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1354339. [PMID: 38638428 PMCID: PMC11024352 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1354339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Lymphangiogenesis (LYM) has an important role in tumor progression and is strongly associated with tumor metastasis. However, the clinical application of LYM has not progressed as expected. The potential value of LYM needs to be further developed in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) patients. Methods The Sequencing data and clinical characteristics of LUAD patients were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas and GEO databases. Multiple machine learning algorithms were used to screen feature genes and develop the LYM index. Immune cell infiltration, immune checkpoint expression, Tumor Immune Dysfunction and Exclusion (TIDE) algorithm and drug sensitivity analysis were used to explore the correlation of LYM index with immune profile and anti-tumor therapy. Results We screened four lymphangiogenic feature genes (PECAM1, TIMP1, CXCL5 and PDGFB) to construct LYM index based on multiple machine learning algorithms. We divided LUAD patients into the high LYM index group and the low LYM index group based on the median LYM index. LYM index is a risk factor for the prognosis of LUAD patients. In addition, there was a significant difference in immune profile between high LYM index and low LYM index groups. LUAD patients in the low LYM index group seemed to benefit more from immunotherapy based on the results of TIDE algorithm. Conclusion Overall, we confirmed that the LYM index is a prognostic risk factor and a valuable predictor of immunotherapy response in LUAD patients, which provides new evidence for the potential application of LYM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weichang Yang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
- Jiangxi Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Zhijian Wu
- Department of Cardiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Shanshan Cai
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Zhouhua Li
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Wenjun Wang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Juan Wu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Hongdan Luo
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Xiaoqun Ye
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
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Zhang X, Ma L, Xue M, Sun Y, Wang Z. Advances in lymphatic metastasis of non-small cell lung cancer. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:201. [PMID: 38566083 PMCID: PMC10986052 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01574-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer is a deeply malignant tumor with high incidence and mortality. Despite the rapid development of diagnosis and treatment technology, abundant patients with lung cancer are still inevitably faced with recurrence and metastasis, contributing to death. Lymphatic metastasis is the first step of distant metastasis and an important prognostic indicator of non-small cell lung cancer. Tumor-induced lymphangiogenesis is involved in the construction of the tumor microenvironment, except promoting malignant proliferation and metastasis of tumor cells, it also plays a crucial role in individual response to treatment, especially immunotherapy. Thus, this article reviews the current research status of lymphatic metastasis in non-small cell lung cancer, in order to provide some insights for the basic research and clinical and translational application in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofei Zhang
- Cancer Medical Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210011, China
| | - Li Ma
- Cancer Medical Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210011, China
| | - Man Xue
- Cancer Medical Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210011, China
| | - Yanning Sun
- Cancer Medical Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210011, China
| | - Zhaoxia Wang
- Cancer Medical Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210011, China.
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Ju W, Cai HH, Zheng W, Li DM, Zhang W, Yang XH, Yan ZX. Cross‑talk between lymphangiogenesis and malignant melanoma cells: New opinions on tumour drainage and immunization (Review). Oncol Lett 2024; 27:81. [PMID: 38249813 PMCID: PMC10797314 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2024.14215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Malignant melanoma (MM) is a highly aggressive tumour that can easily metastasize through the lymphatic system at the early stages. Lymph node (LN) involvement and lymphatic vessel (LV) density (LVD) represent a harbinger of an adverse prognosis, indicating a strong link between the state of the lymphatic system and the advancement of MM. Permeable capillary lymphatic vessels are the optimal conduits for melanoma cell (MMC) invasion, and lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) can also release a variety of chemokines that actively attract MMCs expressing chemokine ligands through a gradient orientation. Moreover, due to the lower oxidative stress environment in the lymph compared with the blood circulation, MMCs are more likely to survive and colonize. The number of LVs surrounding MM is associated with tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), which is crucial for the effectiveness of immunotherapy. On the other hand, MMCs can release various endothelial growth factors such as VEGF-C/D-VEGFR3 to mediate LN education and promote lymphangiogenesis. Tumour-derived extracellular vesicles are also used to promote lymphangiogenesis and create a microenvironment that is more conducive to tumour progression. MM is surrounded by a large number of lymphocytes. However, both LECs and MMCs are highly plastic, playing multiple roles in evading immune surveillance. They achieve this by expressing inhibitory ligands or reducing antigen recognition. In recent years, tertiary lymphoid structures have been shown to be associated with response to anti-immune checkpoint therapy, which is often a positive prognostic feature in MM. The present review discusses the interaction between lymphangiogenesis and MM metastasis, and it was concluded that the relationship between LVD and TILs and patient prognosis is analogous to a dynamically tilted scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Ju
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, The Fourth People's Hospital of Taizhou, Taizhou, Jiangsu 225300, P.R. China
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212000, P.R. China
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212000, P.R. China
| | - Hong-Hua Cai
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212000, P.R. China
| | - Wei Zheng
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212000, P.R. China
| | - De-Ming Li
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, The Fourth People's Hospital of Taizhou, Taizhou, Jiangsu 225300, P.R. China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, The Fourth People's Hospital of Taizhou, Taizhou, Jiangsu 225300, P.R. China
| | - Xi-Hu Yang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212000, P.R. China
| | - Zhi-Xin Yan
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212000, P.R. China
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Montenegro-Navarro N, García-Báez C, García-Caballero M. Molecular and metabolic orchestration of the lymphatic vasculature in physiology and pathology. Nat Commun 2023; 14:8389. [PMID: 38104163 PMCID: PMC10725466 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-44133-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Lymphangiogenesis refers to the generation of new lymphatic vessels from pre-existing ones. During development and particular adult states, lymphatic endothelial cells (LEC) undergo reprogramming of their transcriptomic and signaling networks to support the high demands imposed by cell proliferation and migration. Although there has been substantial progress in identifying growth factors and signaling pathways controlling lymphangiogenesis in the last decades, insights into the role of metabolism in lymphatic cell functions are just emerging. Despite numerous similarities between the main metabolic pathways existing in LECs, blood ECs (BEC) and other cell types, accumulating evidence has revealed that LECs acquire a unique metabolic signature during lymphangiogenesis, and their metabolic engine is intertwined with molecular regulatory networks, resulting in a tightly regulated and interconnected process. Considering the implication of lymphatic dysfunction in cancer and lymphedema, alongside other pathologies, recent findings hold promising opportunities to develop novel therapeutic approaches. In this review, we provide an overview of the status of knowledge in the molecular and metabolic network regulating the lymphatic vasculature in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nieves Montenegro-Navarro
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Málaga, Andalucía Tech, Málaga, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga y Plataforma en Nanomedicina (IBIMA Plataforma BIONAND), Málaga, Spain
| | - Claudia García-Báez
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Málaga, Andalucía Tech, Málaga, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga y Plataforma en Nanomedicina (IBIMA Plataforma BIONAND), Málaga, Spain
| | - Melissa García-Caballero
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Málaga, Andalucía Tech, Málaga, Spain.
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga y Plataforma en Nanomedicina (IBIMA Plataforma BIONAND), Málaga, Spain.
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Turati M, Mattei G, Boaretto A, Magi A, Calvani M, Ronca R. Molecular Profiling of Lymphatic Endothelial Cell Activation In Vitro. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16587. [PMID: 38068914 PMCID: PMC10706153 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242316587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 11/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The lymphatic vascular system plays a key role in cancer progression. Indeed, the activation of lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) through the lymphangiogenic process allows for the formation of new lymphatic vessels (LVs) that represent the major route for the dissemination of solid tumors. This process is governed by a plethora of cancer-derived and microevironmental mediators that strictly activate and control specific molecular pathways in LECs. In this work we used an in vitro model of LEC activation to trigger lymphangiogenesis using a mix of recombinant pro-lymphangiogenic factors (VFS) and a co-culture system with human melanoma cells. Both systems efficiently activated LECs, and under these experimental conditions, RNA sequencing was exploited to unveil the transcriptional profile of activated LECs. Our data demonstrate that both recombinant and tumor cell-mediated activation trigger significant molecular pathways associated with endothelial activation, morphogenesis, and cytokine-mediated signaling. In addition, this system provides information on new genes to be further investigated in the lymphangiogenesis process and open the possibility for further exploitation in other tumor contexts where lymphatic dissemination plays a relevant role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Turati
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy;
| | - Gianluca Mattei
- Department of Information Engineering, University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy; (G.M.); (A.M.)
| | - Alessia Boaretto
- Department of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, A. Meyer Children’s Hospital, Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalisation and Health Care (IRCCS), 50139 Florence, Italy; (A.B.); (M.C.)
| | - Alberto Magi
- Department of Information Engineering, University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy; (G.M.); (A.M.)
| | - Maura Calvani
- Department of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, A. Meyer Children’s Hospital, Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalisation and Health Care (IRCCS), 50139 Florence, Italy; (A.B.); (M.C.)
| | - Roberto Ronca
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy;
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10
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Sridharan B, Lim HG. Advances in photoacoustic imaging aided by nano contrast agents: special focus on role of lymphatic system imaging for cancer theranostics. J Nanobiotechnology 2023; 21:437. [PMID: 37986071 PMCID: PMC10662568 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-023-02192-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Photoacoustic imaging (PAI) is a successful clinical imaging platform for management of cancer and other health conditions that has seen significant progress in the past decade. However, clinical translation of PAI based methods are still under scrutiny as the imaging quality and clinical information derived from PA images are not on par with other imaging methods. Hence, to improve PAI, exogenous contrast agents, in the form of nanomaterials, are being used to achieve better image with less side effects, lower accumulation, and improved target specificity. Nanomedicine has become inevitable in cancer management, as it contributes at every stage from diagnosis to therapy, surgery, and even in the postoperative care and surveillance for recurrence. Nanocontrast agents for PAI have been developed and are being explored for early and improved cancer diagnosis. The systemic stability and target specificity of the nanomaterials to render its theranostic property depends on various influencing factors such as the administration route and physico-chemical responsiveness. The recent focus in PAI is on targeting the lymphatic system and nodes for cancer diagnosis, as they play a vital role in cancer progression and metastasis. This review aims to discuss the clinical advancements of PAI using nanoparticles as exogenous contrast agents for cancer theranostics with emphasis on PAI of lymphatic system for diagnosis, cancer progression, metastasis, PAI guided tumor resection, and finally PAI guided drug delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Badrinathan Sridharan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Pukyong National University, Busan, 48513, Republic of Korea
| | - Hae Gyun Lim
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Pukyong National University, Busan, 48513, Republic of Korea.
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11
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Wen JY, Li X, Chen JN, Chen J, Zhang JY, Du Y, Zhu WH, Chen YJ, Yang RH, Shao CK. CD45 - erythroid progenitor cells promote lymph node metastasis in gastric cancer by inducing a hybrid epithelial/mesenchymal state in lymphatic endothelial cells. Gastric Cancer 2023; 26:918-933. [PMID: 37676622 DOI: 10.1007/s10120-023-01425-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Specific mechanisms of lymph node (LN) metastasis in early-stage gastric cancer (GC) have not been elucidated. The role of anemia, a vital clinical feature of GC, in LN metastasis is also unclear. Since the number of erythroid progenitor cells (EPCs) is increased in chronic anemia, we investigated its association with LN metastasis in GC. METHODS Flow cytometry and immunofluorescence analyses were performed to sort and study EPCs from the circulation and tumors of patients with stage I-III GC. The effect of these EPCs on the activation of T and B cells and on the functions of lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) was determined, and their ability to promote LN metastasis was evaluated using a footpad-popliteal LN metastasis model based on two human adenocarcinoma GC cell lines in nude mice. The prognostic value of EPCs was also analyzed. RESULTS The proportion of CD45- EPCs was higher in the mononuclear cells in the circulation, tumors, and LNs of GC patients with LN metastasis (N+) than in those of GC patients without LN metastasis (N0). In N+ patients, CD45- EPCs were more abundant in metastatic LNs than in non-metastatic LNs. Lymphatic vessel endothelial hyaluronan receptor 1 immunoreactivity in tumors revealed that CD45- EPCs were positively associated with nodal stages and lymph vessel density. Furthermore, CD45- EPCs increased LEC proliferation and migration through their S100A8/A9 heterodimer-induced hybrid epithelial/mesenchymal (E/M) state; however, they did not influence the invasion and tubulogenesis of LECs or T and B cell proliferation. CD45- EPCs promoted LN metastasis in vivo; the S100A8/A9 heterodimer mimicked this phenomenon. Finally, CD45- EPCs predicted the overall and disease-free survival of stage I-III GC patients after radical resection. CONCLUSIONS The CD45- EPCs accumulated in GC tissues and metastatic LNs and promoted LN metastasis via the S100A8/9-induced hybrid E/M state of LECs, which was the specific mechanism of LN metastasis in the early stages of GC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Yun Wen
- Department of Pathology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 600 Tianhe Road, Guangzhou, 510630, Guangdong, China
- Department of Medical Oncology and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 600 Tianhe Road, Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Xing Li
- Department of Medical Oncology and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 600 Tianhe Road, Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Jian-Ning Chen
- Department of Pathology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 600 Tianhe Road, Guangzhou, 510630, Guangdong, China
| | - Jie Chen
- Department of Medical Oncology and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 600 Tianhe Road, Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Jing-Yue Zhang
- Department of Pathology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 600 Tianhe Road, Guangzhou, 510630, Guangdong, China
| | - Yu Du
- Department of Pathology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 600 Tianhe Road, Guangzhou, 510630, Guangdong, China
| | - Wei-Hang Zhu
- Department of Medical Oncology and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 600 Tianhe Road, Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Yong-Jian Chen
- Department of Medical Oncology and Guangdong Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 600 Tianhe Road, Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Ri-Hong Yang
- Department of Pathology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 600 Tianhe Road, Guangzhou, 510630, Guangdong, China
| | - Chun-Kui Shao
- Department of Pathology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, 600 Tianhe Road, Guangzhou, 510630, Guangdong, China.
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12
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Gonzalez J, Bahmad HF, Ocejo S, Abreu A, Popp M, Gogola S, Fernandez V, Recine M, Poppiti R. The Usefulness of Elastin Staining to Detect Vascular Invasion in Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15264. [PMID: 37894944 PMCID: PMC10607141 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242015264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor prognosis hinges on accurate cancer staging, a pivotal process influenced by the identification of lymphovascular invasion (LVI), i.e., blood vessel and lymphatic vessel invasion. Protocols by the College of American Pathologists (CAP) and the World Health Organization (WHO) have been established to assess LVI in various tumor types, including, but not limited to, breast cancer, colorectal cancer (CRC), pancreatic exocrine tumors, and thyroid carcinomas. The CAP refers to blood vessel invasion as "angioinvasion" (vascular invasion) to differentiate it from lymphatic vessel invasion (lymphatic invasion). For clarity, the latter terms will be used throughout this review. The presence of lymphatic and/or vascular invasion has emerged as a pivotal prognostic factor; therefore, its accurate identification is crucial not only for staging but also for providing the patient with an honest understanding of his/her prognosis. Given the prognostic importance of the correct identification of LVI, specific staining techniques are employed to distinguish lymphatic vessel invasion from angioinvasion and to differentiate true LVI from artifact. These encompass hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining, elastic staining, Factor VIII staining, Ulex europaeus I agglutinin staining, CD31, CD34, D2-40, ERG, and D2-40 (podoplanin) immunohistochemical (IHC) stains among others. Based on a review of numerous publications regarding the efficacy of various methods for LVI detection, elastin staining demonstrated superior accuracy and prognostic value, allowing for more targeted treatment strategies. The clinical significance of accurately detecting LVI cannot be overstated, as it is strongly linked to higher cancer-related mortality and an increased risk of tumor recurrence. This review aims to examine the existing literature on the use of elastin stains in the detection of vascular invasion among different types of tumors and its prognostic value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey Gonzalez
- Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA; (J.G.); (S.O.); (A.A.); (M.P.); (S.G.)
| | - Hisham F. Bahmad
- Arkadi M. Rywlin M.D. Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Mount Sinai Medical Center, Miami Beach, FL 33140, USA; (V.F.); (M.R.); (R.P.)
| | - Stephanie Ocejo
- Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA; (J.G.); (S.O.); (A.A.); (M.P.); (S.G.)
| | - Alvaro Abreu
- Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA; (J.G.); (S.O.); (A.A.); (M.P.); (S.G.)
| | - Meagan Popp
- Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA; (J.G.); (S.O.); (A.A.); (M.P.); (S.G.)
| | - Samantha Gogola
- Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA; (J.G.); (S.O.); (A.A.); (M.P.); (S.G.)
| | - Vielka Fernandez
- Arkadi M. Rywlin M.D. Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Mount Sinai Medical Center, Miami Beach, FL 33140, USA; (V.F.); (M.R.); (R.P.)
| | - Monica Recine
- Arkadi M. Rywlin M.D. Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Mount Sinai Medical Center, Miami Beach, FL 33140, USA; (V.F.); (M.R.); (R.P.)
- Department of Pathology, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
| | - Robert Poppiti
- Arkadi M. Rywlin M.D. Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Mount Sinai Medical Center, Miami Beach, FL 33140, USA; (V.F.); (M.R.); (R.P.)
- Department of Pathology, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
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13
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Ji H, Hu C, Yang X, Liu Y, Ji G, Ge S, Wang X, Wang M. Lymph node metastasis in cancer progression: molecular mechanisms, clinical significance and therapeutic interventions. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:367. [PMID: 37752146 PMCID: PMC10522642 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01576-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Lymph nodes (LNs) are important hubs for metastatic cell arrest and growth, immune modulation, and secondary dissemination to distant sites through a series of mechanisms, and it has been proved that lymph node metastasis (LNM) is an essential prognostic indicator in many different types of cancer. Therefore, it is important for oncologists to understand the mechanisms of tumor cells to metastasize to LNs, as well as how LNM affects the prognosis and therapy of patients with cancer in order to provide patients with accurate disease assessment and effective treatment strategies. In recent years, with the updates in both basic and clinical studies on LNM and the application of advanced medical technologies, much progress has been made in the understanding of the mechanisms of LNM and the strategies for diagnosis and treatment of LNM. In this review, current knowledge of the anatomical and physiological characteristics of LNs, as well as the molecular mechanisms of LNM, are described. The clinical significance of LNM in different anatomical sites is summarized, including the roles of LNM playing in staging, prognostic prediction, and treatment selection for patients with various types of cancers. And the novel exploration and academic disputes of strategies for recognition, diagnosis, and therapeutic interventions of metastatic LNs are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haoran Ji
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Chuang Hu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Xuhui Yang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Yuanhao Liu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Guangyu Ji
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Shengfang Ge
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
| | - Xiansong Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China.
| | - Mingsong Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China.
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14
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Viúdez-Pareja C, Kreft E, García-Caballero M. Immunomodulatory properties of the lymphatic endothelium in the tumor microenvironment. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1235812. [PMID: 37744339 PMCID: PMC10512957 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1235812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is an intricate complex and dynamic structure composed of various cell types, including tumor, stromal and immune cells. Within this complex network, lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) play a crucial role in regulating immune responses and influencing tumor progression and metastatic dissemination to lymph node and distant organs. Interestingly, LECs possess unique immunomodulatory properties that can either promote or inhibit anti-tumor immune responses. In fact, tumor-associated lymphangiogenesis can facilitate tumor cell dissemination and metastasis supporting immunoevasion, but also, different molecular mechanisms involved in LEC-mediated anti-tumor immunity have been already described. In this context, the crosstalk between cancer cells, LECs and immune cells and how this communication can shape the immune landscape in the TME is gaining increased interest in recent years. In this review, we present a comprehensive and updated report about the immunomodulatory properties of the lymphatic endothelium within the TME, with special focus on primary tumors and tumor-draining lymph nodes. Furthermore, we outline emerging research investigating the potential therapeutic strategies targeting the lymphatic endothelium to enhance anti-tumor immune responses. Understanding the intricate mechanisms involved in LEC-mediated immune modulation in the TME opens up new possibilities for the development of innovative approaches to fight cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Viúdez-Pareja
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, Andalucía Tech, University of Málaga, Málaga, Spain
- IBIMA (Biomedical Research Institute of Málaga)-Plataforma BIONAND, Málaga, Spain
| | - Ewa Kreft
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, Andalucía Tech, University of Málaga, Málaga, Spain
- IBIMA (Biomedical Research Institute of Málaga)-Plataforma BIONAND, Málaga, Spain
| | - Melissa García-Caballero
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, Andalucía Tech, University of Málaga, Málaga, Spain
- IBIMA (Biomedical Research Institute of Málaga)-Plataforma BIONAND, Málaga, Spain
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15
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Guan YT, Zhang C, Zhang HY, Wei WL, Yue W, Zhao W, Zhang DH. Primary cilia: Structure, dynamics, and roles in cancer cells and tumor microenvironment. J Cell Physiol 2023; 238:1788-1807. [PMID: 37565630 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.31092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
Despite the initiation of tumor arises from tumorigenic transformation signaling in cancer cells, cancer cell survival, invasion, and metastasis also require a dynamic and reciprocal association with extracellular signaling from tumor microenvironment (TME). Primary cilia are the antenna-like structure that mediate signaling sensation and transduction in different tissues and cells. Recent studies have started to uncover that the heterogeneous ciliation in cancer cells and cells from the TME in tumor growth impels asymmetric paracellular signaling in the TME, indicating the essential functions of primary cilia in homeostasis maintenance of both cancer cells and the TME. In this review, we discussed recent advances in the structure and assembly of primary cilia, and the role of primary cilia in tumor and TME formation, as well as the therapeutic potentials that target ciliary dynamics and signaling from the cells in different tumors and the TME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Ting Guan
- Zhanjiang Institute of Clinical Medicine, Central People's Hospital of Zhanjiang, Guangdong Medical University Zhanjiang Central Hospital, Zhanjiang, P. R. China
| | - Chong Zhang
- Zhanjiang Institute of Clinical Medicine, Central People's Hospital of Zhanjiang, Guangdong Medical University Zhanjiang Central Hospital, Zhanjiang, P. R. China
| | - Hong-Yong Zhang
- Zhanjiang Institute of Clinical Medicine, Central People's Hospital of Zhanjiang, Guangdong Medical University Zhanjiang Central Hospital, Zhanjiang, P. R. China
| | - Wen-Lu Wei
- Zhanjiang Institute of Clinical Medicine, Central People's Hospital of Zhanjiang, Guangdong Medical University Zhanjiang Central Hospital, Zhanjiang, P. R. China
| | - Wei Yue
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Shaanxi Province for Craniofacial Precision Medicine Research, College of Stomatology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, P. R. China
- Department of Posthodontics, College of Stomatology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, P. R. China
| | - Dong-Hui Zhang
- Zhanjiang Institute of Clinical Medicine, Central People's Hospital of Zhanjiang, Guangdong Medical University Zhanjiang Central Hospital, Zhanjiang, P. R. China
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16
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Li Y, Li S, Jiang Z, Tan K, Meng Y, Zhang D, Ma X. Targeting lymph node delivery with nanovaccines for cancer immunotherapy: recent advances and future directions. J Nanobiotechnology 2023; 21:212. [PMID: 37415161 PMCID: PMC10327386 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-023-01977-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Although cancer immunotherapy is a compelling approach against cancer, its effectiveness is hindered by the challenge of generating a robust and durable immune response against metastatic cancer cells. Nanovaccines, specifically engineered to transport cancer antigens and immune-stimulating agents to the lymph nodes, hold promise in overcoming these limitations and eliciting a potent and sustained immune response against metastatic cancer cells. This manuscript provides an in-depth exploration of the lymphatic system's background, emphasizing its role in immune surveillance and tumor metastasis. Furthermore, it delves into the design principles of nanovaccines and their unique capability to target lymph node metastasis. The primary objective of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview of the current advancements in nanovaccine design for targeting lymph node metastasis, while also discussing their potential to enhance cancer immunotherapy. By summarizing the state-of-the-art in nanovaccine development, this review aims to shed light on the promising prospects of harnessing nanotechnology to potentiate cancer immunotherapy and ultimately improve patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yueyi Li
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.37, Guoxue Alley, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Shen Li
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.37, Guoxue Alley, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Zedong Jiang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.37, Guoxue Alley, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Keqin Tan
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.37, Guoxue Alley, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yuanling Meng
- West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Dingyi Zhang
- West China School of Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xuelei Ma
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.37, Guoxue Alley, Chengdu, 610041, China.
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17
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Ivanov KI, Samuilova OV, Zamyatnin AA. The emerging roles of long noncoding RNAs in lymphatic vascular development and disease. Cell Mol Life Sci 2023; 80:197. [PMID: 37407839 PMCID: PMC10322780 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-023-04842-4] [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: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
Recent advances in RNA sequencing technologies helped uncover what was once uncharted territory in the human genome-the complex and versatile world of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs). Previously thought of as merely transcriptional "noise", lncRNAs have now emerged as essential regulators of gene expression networks controlling development, homeostasis and disease progression. The regulatory functions of lncRNAs are broad and diverse, and the underlying molecular mechanisms are highly variable, acting at the transcriptional, post-transcriptional, translational, and post-translational levels. In recent years, evidence has accumulated to support the important role of lncRNAs in the development and functioning of the lymphatic vasculature and associated pathological processes such as tumor-induced lymphangiogenesis and cancer metastasis. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the role of lncRNAs in regulating the key genes and pathways involved in lymphatic vascular development and disease. Furthermore, we discuss the potential of lncRNAs as novel therapeutic targets and outline possible strategies for the development of lncRNA-based therapeutics to treat diseases of the lymphatic system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantin I Ivanov
- Research Center for Translational Medicine, Sirius University of Science and Technology, Sochi, Russian Federation.
- Department of Microbiology, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Olga V Samuilova
- Department of Biochemistry, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation
- HSE University, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Andrey A Zamyatnin
- Research Center for Translational Medicine, Sirius University of Science and Technology, Sochi, Russian Federation
- Faculty of Bioengineering and Bioinformatics, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russian Federation
- Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russian Federation
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
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18
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Yuan Z, Li Y, Zhang S, Wang X, Dou H, Yu X, Zhang Z, Yang S, Xiao M. Extracellular matrix remodeling in tumor progression and immune escape: from mechanisms to treatments. Mol Cancer 2023; 22:48. [PMID: 36906534 PMCID: PMC10007858 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-023-01744-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 136.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2023] [Indexed: 03/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The malignant tumor is a multi-etiological, systemic and complex disease characterized by uncontrolled cell proliferation and distant metastasis. Anticancer treatments including adjuvant therapies and targeted therapies are effective in eliminating cancer cells but in a limited number of patients. Increasing evidence suggests that the extracellular matrix (ECM) plays an important role in tumor development through changes in macromolecule components, degradation enzymes and stiffness. These variations are under the control of cellular components in tumor tissue via the aberrant activation of signaling pathways, the interaction of the ECM components to multiple surface receptors, and mechanical impact. Additionally, the ECM shaped by cancer regulates immune cells which results in an immune suppressive microenvironment and hinders the efficacy of immunotherapies. Thus, the ECM acts as a barrier to protect cancer from treatments and supports tumor progression. Nevertheless, the profound regulatory network of the ECM remodeling hampers the design of individualized antitumor treatment. Here, we elaborate on the composition of the malignant ECM, and discuss the specific mechanisms of the ECM remodeling. Precisely, we highlight the impact of the ECM remodeling on tumor development, including proliferation, anoikis, metastasis, angiogenesis, lymphangiogenesis, and immune escape. Finally, we emphasize ECM "normalization" as a potential strategy for anti-malignant treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhennan Yuan
- Department of Oncological Surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Yingpu Li
- Department of Oncological Surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Sifan Zhang
- Department of Neurobiology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Xueying Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - He Dou
- Department of Oncological Surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Xi Yu
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, 150081, China
| | - Zhiren Zhang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Cell Transplantation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150001, China.,Institute of Metabolic Disease, Heilongjiang Academy of Medical Science, Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Metabolic Disorder and Cancer Related Cardiovascular Diseases, Harbin, 150001, China
| | - Shanshan Yang
- Department of Gynecological Radiotherapy, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, 150000, China.
| | - Min Xiao
- Department of Oncological Surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, 150081, China.
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19
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Zhang C, Jiang H, Yuan L, Liao Y, Liu P, Du Q, Pan C, Liu T, Li J, Chen Y, Huang J, Liang Y, Xia M, Xu M, Qin S, Zou Q, Liu Y, Huang H, Pan Y, Li J, Liu J, Wang W, Yao S. CircVPRBP inhibits nodal metastasis of cervical cancer by impeding RACK1 O-GlcNAcylation and stability. Oncogene 2023; 42:793-807. [PMID: 36658304 PMCID: PMC10005957 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-023-02595-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Lymph node (LN) metastasis is one of the most malignant clinical features in patients with cervical cancer (CCa). Understanding the mechanism of lymph node metastasis will provide treatment strategies for patients with CCa. Circular RNAs (circRNA) play a critical role in the development of human cancers. However, the role and mechanism of circRNAs in lymph node metastasis remain largely unknown. Here, it is reported that loss expression of circRNA circVPRBP was closely associated with LN metastasis and poor survival of CCa patients. In vitro and in vivo assays showed that circVPRBP overexpression notably inhibited lymphangiogenesis and LN metastasis, whereas RfxCas13d mediated silencing of circVPRBP promoted lymphangiogenesis and the ability of the cervical cancer cells to metastasize to the LNs. Mechanistically, circVPRBP could bind to RACK1 and shield the S122 O-GlcNAcylation site to promote RACK1 degradation, resulting in inhibition of Galectin-1 mediated lymphangiogenesis and LN metastasis in CCa. Taken together, the results demonstrate that circVPRBP is a potential prognostic biomarker and a novel therapeutic target for LN metastasis in CCa patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunyu Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 510080, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Hongye Jiang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 510080, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Li Yuan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 510080, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yuandong Liao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 510080, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Pan Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 510080, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Qiqiao Du
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 510080, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Chaoyun Pan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Tianyu Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 510080, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jie Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 510080, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yili Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 510080, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jiaming Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 510080, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yanchun Liang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 510080, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Meng Xia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 510080, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Manman Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 510080, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Shuhang Qin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 510080, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Qiaojian Zou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 510080, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yunyun Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 510080, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Hua Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 510080, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yuwen Pan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 510080, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jiaying Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 510080, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Junxiu Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 510080, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 510080, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
| | - Shuzhong Yao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 510080, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
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20
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Jiang H, Wei H, Zhou Y, Xiao X, Zhou C, Ji X. Overview of the meningeal lymphatic vessels in aging and central nervous system disorders. Cell Biosci 2022; 12:202. [PMID: 36528776 PMCID: PMC9759913 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-022-00942-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In the aging process and central nervous system (CNS) diseases, the functions of the meningeal lymphatic vessels (MLVs) are impaired. Alterations in MLVs have been observed in aging-related neurodegenerative diseases, brain tumors, and even cerebrovascular disease. These findings reveal a new perspective on aging and CNS disorders and provide a promising therapeutic target. Additionally, recent neuropathological studies have shown that MLVs exchange soluble components between the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and interstitial fluid (ISF) and drain metabolites, cellular debris, misfolded proteins, and immune cells from the CSF into the deep cervical lymph nodes (dCLNs), directly connecting the brain with the peripheral circulation. Impairment and dysfunction of meningeal lymphatics can lead to the accumulation of toxic proteins in the brain, exacerbating the progression of neurological disorders. However, for many CNS diseases, the causal relationship between MLVs and neuropathological changes is not fully clear. Here, after a brief historical retrospection, we review recent discoveries about the hallmarks of MLVs and their roles in the aging and CNS diseases, as well as potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of neurologic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huimin Jiang
- grid.24696.3f0000 0004 0369 153XBeijing Institute of Brain Disorders, Laboratory of Brain Disorders, Ministry of Science and Technology, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Disorders, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Big Data-Based Precision Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069 China
| | - Huimin Wei
- grid.64939.310000 0000 9999 1211Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Big Data-Based Precision Medicine, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191 China
| | - Yifan Zhou
- grid.24696.3f0000 0004 0369 153XBeijing Institute of Brain Disorders, Laboratory of Brain Disorders, Ministry of Science and Technology, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Disorders, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Big Data-Based Precision Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069 China
| | - Xuechun Xiao
- grid.64939.310000 0000 9999 1211Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Big Data-Based Precision Medicine, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191 China
| | - Chen Zhou
- grid.24696.3f0000 0004 0369 153XBeijing Institute of Brain Disorders, Laboratory of Brain Disorders, Ministry of Science and Technology, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Disorders, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Big Data-Based Precision Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069 China
| | - Xunming Ji
- grid.24696.3f0000 0004 0369 153XBeijing Institute of Brain Disorders, Laboratory of Brain Disorders, Ministry of Science and Technology, Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Disorders, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Big Data-Based Precision Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069 China ,grid.24696.3f0000 0004 0369 153XDepartment of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100053 China
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21
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The natural FGF-trap long pentraxin 3 inhibits lymphangiogenesis and lymphatic dissemination. Exp Hematol Oncol 2022; 11:84. [PMID: 36320051 PMCID: PMC9623950 DOI: 10.1186/s40164-022-00330-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The lymphatic vascular system represents a major route for dissemination of several solid tumors, including melanoma. Even though the members of the Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor family VEGF-C and VEGF-A have been shown to drive tumor lymphangiogenesis, experimental evidence indicates that also the pro-angiogenic factor Fibroblast Growth Factor-2 (FGF2) may play a role in the lymphangiogenic switch by triggering the activation of lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) in cooperation with VEGFs.The soluble pattern recognition receptor Long Pentraxin 3 (PTX3) acts as a natural FGF trap, thus exerting an oncosuppressive role in FGF-dependent tumors. Here, the capacity of PTX3 to modulate lymphangiogenesis was assessed in vitro and in vivo. The results demonstrate that recombinant human PTX3 inhibits the lymphangiogenic activity exerted by the VEGF-A/FGF2/sphingosine-1-phosphate (VFS) cocktail on human and murine LECs. In keeping with in vitro data, a reduced lymphangiogenic response was observed in a lymphangiogenic Matrigel plug assay following the subcutaneous injection of the VFS cocktail in PTX3-overexpressing transgenic TgN(Tie2-hPTX3) mice when compared to wild-type or Ptx3 null animals. Accordingly, the capacity of B16F10-VEGFC-luc melanoma cells to colonize the primary tumor-draining lymph node after grafting into the foot pad was dramatically impaired in PTX3-overexpressing mice.Together with the observation that both the VFS cocktail and melanoma cell conditioned media caused a significant downregulation of PTX3 expression in LECs, these data indicate that the FGF trap activity of PTX3 may exert a key effect in the modulation of lymphangiogenesis and tumor metastatic dissemination.
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22
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Azzarito G, Visentin M, Leeners B, Dubey RK. Transcriptomic and Functional Evidence for Differential Effects of MCF-7 Breast Cancer Cell-Secretome on Vascular and Lymphatic Endothelial Cell Growth. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23137192. [PMID: 35806196 PMCID: PMC9266834 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23137192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascular and lymphatic vessels drive breast cancer (BC) growth and metastasis. We assessed the cell growth (proliferation, migration, and capillary formation), gene-, and protein-expression profiles of Vascular Endothelial Cells (VECs) and Lymphatic Endothelial Cells (LECs) exposed to a conditioned medium (CM) from estrogen receptor-positive BC cells (MCF-7) in the presence or absence of Estradiol. We demonstrated that MCF-7-CM stimulated growth and capillary formation in VECs but inhibited LEC growth. Consistently, MCF-7-CM induced ERK1/2 and Akt phosphorylation in VECs and inhibited them in LECs. Gene expression analysis revealed that the LECs were overall (≈10-fold) more sensitive to MCF-7-CM exposure than VECs. Growth/angiogenesis and cell cycle pathways were upregulated in VECs but downregulated in LECs. An angiogenesis proteome array confirmed the upregulation of 23 pro-angiogenesis proteins in VECs. In LECs, the expression of genes related to ATP synthesis and the ATP content were reduced by MCF-7-CM, whereas MTHFD2 gene, involved in folate metabolism and immune evasion, was upregulated. The contrasting effect of MCF-7-CM on the growth of VECs and LECs was reversed by inhibiting the TGF-β signaling pathway. The effect of MCF-7-CM on VEC growth was also reversed by inhibiting the VEGF signaling pathway. In conclusion, BC secretome may facilitate cancer cell survival and tumor growth by simultaneously promoting vascular angiogenesis and inhibiting lymphatic growth. The differential effects of BC secretome on LECs and VECs may be of pathophysiological relevance in BC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Azzarito
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, University Hospital Zurich, 8952 Schlieren, Switzerland; (G.A.); (B.L.)
| | - Michele Visentin
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland;
| | - Brigitte Leeners
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, University Hospital Zurich, 8952 Schlieren, Switzerland; (G.A.); (B.L.)
| | - Raghvendra K. Dubey
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, University Hospital Zurich, 8952 Schlieren, Switzerland; (G.A.); (B.L.)
- Department of Pharmacology & Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15219, USA
- Correspondence:
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23
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Exploring the FGF/FGFR System in Ocular Tumors: New Insights and Perspectives. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073835. [PMID: 35409195 PMCID: PMC8998873 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 03/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Ocular tumors are a family of rare neoplasms that develop in the eye. Depending on the type of cancer, they mainly originate from cells localized within the retina, the uvea, or the vitreous. Even though current treatments (e.g., radiotherapy, transpupillary thermotherapy, cryotherapy, chemotherapy, local resection, or enucleation) achieve the control of the local tumor in the majority of treated cases, a significant percentage of patients develop metastatic disease. In recent years, new targeting therapies and immuno-therapeutic approaches have been evaluated. Nevertheless, the search for novel targets and players is eagerly required to prevent and control tumor growth and metastasis dissemination. The fibroblast growth factor (FGF)/FGF receptor (FGFR) system consists of a family of proteins involved in a variety of physiological and pathological processes, including cancer. Indeed, tumor and stroma activation of the FGF/FGFR system plays a relevant role in tumor growth, invasion, and resistance, as well as in angiogenesis and dissemination. To date, scattered pieces of literature report that FGFs and FGFRs are expressed by a significant subset of primary eye cancers, where they play relevant and pleiotropic roles. In this review, we provide an up-to-date description of the relevant roles played by the FGF/FGFR system in ocular tumors and speculate on its possible prognostic and therapeutic exploitation.
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