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Zhou Y, Ma Y, Sheng J, Ma Y, Ding J, Zhou W. Breaking Down Barriers in Drug Delivery by Stromal Remodeling Approaches in Pancreatic Cancer. Mol Pharm 2024. [PMID: 39049481 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.4c00329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer remains a formidable challenge in oncology due to its aggressive nature and limited treatment options. The dense stroma surrounding pancreatic tumors not only provides structural support but also presents a formidable barrier to effective therapy, hindering drug penetration and immune cell infiltration. This review delves into the intricate interplay between stromal components and cancer cells, highlighting their impact on treatment resistance and prognosis. Strategies for stromal remodeling, including modulation of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) activation states, and targeting extracellular matrix (ECM) components, are examined for their potential to enhance drug penetration and improve therapeutic efficacy. Integration of stromal remodeling with conventional therapies, such as chemotherapy and immunotherapy, is discussed along with the emerging field of intelligent nanosystems for targeted drug delivery. This comprehensive overview underscores the importance of stromal remodeling in pancreatic cancer treatment and offers insights into promising avenues for future research and clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Zhou
- Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China
| | - Yunxiao Ma
- Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China
| | - Jianwei Sheng
- China Quality Mark Certification (Shandong) Co., LTD, Jinan, Shandong 250100, China
| | - Yiran Ma
- Hunan Bainianyiren Chinese Traditional Medical Institute Co., LTD, Changsha, Hunan 410221, China
| | - Jinsong Ding
- Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China
| | - Wenhu Zhou
- Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China
- Key Laboratory of Biological Nanotechnology of National Health Commission, Changsha, Hunan 410008, China
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Owaki T, Iida T, Miyai Y, Kato K, Hase T, Ishii M, Ando R, Hinohara K, Akashi T, Mizutani Y, Ishikawa T, Mii S, Shiraki Y, Esaki N, Yamamoto M, Tsukamoto T, Nomura S, Murakami T, Takahashi M, Yuguchi Y, Maeda M, Sano T, Sassa N, Matsukawa Y, Kawashima H, Akamatsu S, Enomoto A. Synthetic retinoid-mediated preconditioning of cancer-associated fibroblasts and macrophages improves cancer response to immune checkpoint blockade. Br J Cancer 2024; 131:372-386. [PMID: 38849479 PMCID: PMC11263587 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-024-02734-3] [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: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The proliferation of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) hampers drug delivery and anti-tumor immunity, inducing tumor resistance to immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy. However, it has remained a challenge to develop therapeutics that specifically target or modulate CAFs. METHODS We investigated the involvement of Meflin+ cancer-restraining CAFs (rCAFs) in ICB efficacy in patients with clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) and urothelial carcinoma (UC). We examined the effects of Am80 (a synthetic retinoid) administration on CAF phenotype, the tumor immune microenvironment, and ICB efficacy in cancer mouse models. RESULTS High infiltration of Meflin+ CAFs correlated with ICB efficacy in patients with ccRCC and UC. Meflin+ CAF induction by Am80 administration improved ICB efficacy in the mouse models of cancer. Am80 exerted this effect when administered prior to, but not concomitant with, ICB therapy in wild-type but not Meflin-deficient mice. Am80-mediated induction of Meflin+ CAFs was associated with increases in antibody delivery and M1-like tumor-associated macrophage (TAM) infiltration. Finally, we showed the role of Chemerin produced from CAFs after Am80 administration in the induction of M1-like TAMs. CONCLUSION Our data suggested that Am80 administration prior to ICB therapy increases the number of Meflin+ rCAFs and ICB efficacy by inducing changes in TAM phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takayuki Owaki
- Department of Pathology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
- Department of Urology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Tadashi Iida
- Department of Pathology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan.
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan.
| | - Yuki Miyai
- Department of Pathology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Katsuhiro Kato
- Department of Cardiology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Tetsunari Hase
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Makoto Ishii
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Ryota Ando
- Department of Pathology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Kunihiko Hinohara
- Department of Immunology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
- Institute for Advanced Research, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Tomohiro Akashi
- Division of Systems Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Yasuyuki Mizutani
- Department of Pathology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Takuya Ishikawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Shinji Mii
- Department of Pathology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Yukihiro Shiraki
- Department of Pathology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Nobutoshi Esaki
- Department of Pathology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Masami Yamamoto
- Laboratory of Physiological Pathology, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Tsukamoto
- Division of Analytical Pathology, Oncology Innovation Center, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Japan
| | - Sachiyo Nomura
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Clinical Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hoshi University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takashi Murakami
- Department of Microbiology, Saitama Medical University, Saitama, Japan
| | - Masahide Takahashi
- Department of Pathology, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Japan
- International Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Japan
| | - Yuri Yuguchi
- Department of Urology, Chukyo Hospital, Nagoya, Japan
| | | | - Tomoyasu Sano
- Department of Urology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Naoto Sassa
- Department of Urology, Aichi Medical University, Nagakute, Japan
| | - Yoshihisa Matsukawa
- Department of Urology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Hiroki Kawashima
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Shusuke Akamatsu
- Department of Urology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Atsushi Enomoto
- Department of Pathology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan.
- Center for One Medicine Innovative Translational Research, Gifu University Institute for Advanced Study, Gifu, Japan.
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Chen J, Chen R, Huang J. A pan-cancer single-cell transcriptional analysis of antigen-presenting cancer-associated fibroblasts in the tumor microenvironment. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1372432. [PMID: 38903527 PMCID: PMC11187094 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1372432] [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: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are the primary stromal cells found in tumor microenvironment, and display high plasticity and heterogeneity. By using single-cell RNA-seq technology, researchers have identified various subpopulations of CAFs, particularly highlighting a recently identified subpopulation termed antigen-presenting CAFs (apCAFs), which are largely unknown. Methods We collected datasets from public databases for 9 different solid tumor types to analyze the role of apCAFs in the tumor microenvironment. Results Our data revealed that apCAFs, likely originating mainly from normal fibroblast, are commonly found in different solid tumor types and generally are associated with anti-tumor effects. apCAFs may be associated with the activation of CD4+ effector T cells and potentially promote the survival of CD4+ effector T cells through the expression of C1Q molecules. Moreover, apCAFs exhibited highly enrichment of transcription factors RUNX3 and IKZF1, along with increased glycolytic metabolism. Conclusions Taken together, these findings offer novel insights into a deeper understanding of apCAFs and the potential therapeutic implications for apCAFs targeted immunotherapy in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juntao Chen
- Shenshan Medical Center, Memorial Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Shanwei, China
| | - Renhui Chen
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Medical Research Center, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jingang Huang
- Medical Research Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
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4
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Yamashita K, Kumamoto Y. CAFs-Associated Genes (CAFGs) in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and Novel Therapeutic Strategy. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6003. [PMID: 38892190 PMCID: PMC11172745 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25116003] [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: 04/11/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the most aggressive cancer with striking fibrosis, and its mortality rate is ranked second across human cancers. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play a critical role in PDAC progression, and we reviewed the molecular understanding of PDAC CAFs and novel therapeutic potential at present. CAFs-associated genes (CAFGs) were tentatively classified into three categories by stroma specificity representing stroma/epithelia expression ratios (SE ratios). The recent classification using single cell transcriptome technology clarified that CAFs were composed of myofibroblasts (myCAFs), inflammatory CAFs (iCAFs), and other minor ones (e.g., POSTN-CAFs and antigen presenting CAFs, apCAFs). LRRC15 is a myCAFs marker, and myCAFs depletion by diphtheria toxin induces the rapid accumulation of cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) and therefore augment PDL1 antibody treatments. This finding proposes that myCAFs may be a critical regulator of tumor immunity in terms of PDAC progression. myCAFs are located in CAFs adjacent to tumor cells, while iCAFs marked by PDPN and/or COL14A1 are distant from tumor cells, where hypoxic and acidic environments being located in iCAFs putatively due to poor blood supply is consistent with HIF1A and GPR68 expressions. iCAFs may be shared with SASP (secretion-associated phenotypes) in senescent CAFs. myCAFs are classically characterized by CAFGs induced by TGFB1, while chemoresistant CAFs with SASP may dependent on IL6 expression and accompanied by STAT3 activation. Recently, it was found that the unique metabolism of CAFs can be targeted to prevent PDAC progression, where PDAC cells utilize glucose, whereas CAFs in turn utilize lactate, which may be epigenetically regulated, mediated by its target genes including CXCR4. In summary, CAFs have unique molecular characteristics, which have been rigorously clarified as novel therapeutic targets of PDAC progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keishi Yamashita
- Division of Advanced Surgical Oncology, Research and Development Center for New Medical Frontiers, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Kitasato 1-15-1, Minami-ku, Sagamihara 252-0374, Japan
| | - Yusuke Kumamoto
- Department of General-Pediatric-Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, Kitasato University School of Medicine, Sagamihara 252-0374, Japan;
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Rauth S, Malafa M, Ponnusamy MP, Batra SK. Emerging Trends in Gastrointestinal Cancer Targeted Therapies: Harnessing Tumor Microenvironment, Immune Factors, and Metabolomics Insights. Gastroenterology 2024:S0016-5085(24)04917-5. [PMID: 38759843 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2024.05.005] [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] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers are the leading cause of new cancer cases and cancer-related deaths worldwide. The treatment strategies for patients with GI tumors have focused on oncogenic molecular profiles associated with tumor cells. Recent evidence has demonstrated that the tumor cell functions are modulated by its microenvironment, compromising fibroblasts, extracellular matrices, microbiome, immune cells, and the enteric nervous system. Along with the tumor microenvironment components, alterations in key metabolic pathways have emerged as a hallmark of tumor cells. From these perspectives, this review will highlight the functions of different cellular components of the GI tumor microenvironment and their implications for treatment. Furthermore, we discuss the major metabolic reprogramming in GI tumor cells and how understanding metabolic rewiring could lead to new therapeutic strategies. Finally, we briefly summarize the targeted agents currently being studied in GI cancers. Understanding the complex interplay between tumor cell-intrinsic and -extrinsic factors during tumor progression is critical for developing new therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanchita Rauth
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center at Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Mokenge Malafa
- Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida
| | - Moorthy P Ponnusamy
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center at Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska; Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center at Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska.
| | - Surinder K Batra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center at Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska; Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center at Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska.
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Jalil SMA, Henry JC, Cameron AJM. Targets in the Tumour Matrisome to Promote Cancer Therapy Response. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1847. [PMID: 38791926 PMCID: PMC11119821 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16101847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) is composed of complex fibrillar proteins, proteoglycans, and macromolecules, generated by stromal, immune, and cancer cells. The components and organisation of the matrix evolves as tumours progress to invasive disease and metastasis. In many solid tumours, dense fibrotic ECM has been hypothesised to impede therapy response by limiting drug and immune cell access. Interventions to target individual components of the ECM, collectively termed the matrisome, have, however, revealed complex tumour-suppressor, tumour-promoter, and immune-modulatory functions, which have complicated clinical translation. The degree to which distinct components of the matrisome can dictate tumour phenotypes and response to therapy is the subject of intense study. A primary aim is to identify therapeutic opportunities within the matrisome, which might support a better response to existing therapies. Many matrix signatures have been developed which can predict prognosis, immune cell content, and immunotherapy responses. In this review, we will examine key components of the matrisome which have been associated with advanced tumours and therapy resistance. We have primarily focussed here on targeting matrisome components, rather than specific cell types, although several examples are described where cells of origin can dramatically affect tumour roles for matrix components. As we unravel the complex biochemical, biophysical, and intracellular transduction mechanisms associated with the ECM, numerous therapeutic opportunities will be identified to modify tumour progression and therapy response.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Angus J. M. Cameron
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, John Vane Science Centre, Charterhouse Square, London EC1M 6BQ, UK; (S.M.A.J.); (J.C.H.)
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Yu KX, Yuan WJ, Wang HZ, Li YX. Extracellular matrix stiffness and tumor-associated macrophage polarization: new fields affecting immune exclusion. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2024; 73:115. [PMID: 38693304 PMCID: PMC11063025 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-024-03675-9] [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: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
In the malignant progression of tumors, there is deposition and cross-linking of collagen, as well as an increase in hyaluronic acid content, which can lead to an increase in extracellular matrix stiffness. Recent research evidence have shown that the extracellular matrix plays an important role in angiogenesis, cell proliferation, migration, immunosuppression, apoptosis, metabolism, and resistance to chemotherapeutic by the alterations toward both secretion and degradation. The clinical importance of tumor-associated macrophage is increasingly recognized, and macrophage polarization plays a central role in a series of tumor immune processes through internal signal cascade, thus regulating tumor progression. Immunotherapy has gradually become a reliable potential treatment strategy for conventional chemotherapy resistance and advanced cancer patients, but the presence of immune exclusion has become a major obstacle to treatment effectiveness, and the reasons for their resistance to these approaches remain uncertain. Currently, there is a lack of exact mechanism on the regulation of extracellular matrix stiffness and tumor-associated macrophage polarization on immune exclusion. An in-depth understanding of the relationship between extracellular matrix stiffness, tumor-associated macrophage polarization, and immune exclusion will help reveal new therapeutic targets and guide the development of clinical treatment methods for advanced cancer patients. This review summarized the different pathways and potential molecular mechanisms of extracellular matrix stiffness and tumor-associated macrophage polarization involved in immune exclusion and provided available strategies to address immune exclusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke-Xun Yu
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, China
| | - Wei-Jie Yuan
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Hui-Zhen Wang
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, China
| | - Yong-Xiang Li
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, China.
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8
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Wang ZB, Zhang X, Fang C, Liu XT, Liao QJ, Wu N, Wang J. Immunotherapy and the ovarian cancer microenvironment: Exploring potential strategies for enhanced treatment efficacy. Immunology 2024. [PMID: 38618976 DOI: 10.1111/imm.13793] [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: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite progress in cancer immunotherapy, ovarian cancer (OC) prognosis continues to be disappointing. Recent studies have shed light on how not just tumour cells, but also the complex tumour microenvironment, contribute to this unfavourable outcome of OC immunotherapy. The complexities of the immune microenvironment categorize OC as a 'cold tumour'. Nonetheless, understanding the precise mechanisms through which the microenvironment influences the effectiveness of OC immunotherapy remains an ongoing scientific endeavour. This review primarily aims to dissect the inherent characteristics and behaviours of diverse cells within the immune microenvironment, along with an exploration into its reprogramming and metabolic changes. It is expected that these insights will elucidate the operational dynamics of the immune microenvironment in OC and lay a theoretical groundwork for improving the efficacy of immunotherapy in OC management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Bin Wang
- Hunan Gynecological Tumor Clinical Research Center; Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism; Hunan Cancer Hospital, and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Public Service Platform of Tumor Organoids Technology, Changsha, China
| | - Xiu Zhang
- Hunan Gynecological Tumor Clinical Research Center; Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism; Hunan Cancer Hospital, and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Public Service Platform of Tumor Organoids Technology, Changsha, China
| | - Chao Fang
- Hunan Gynecological Tumor Clinical Research Center; Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism; Hunan Cancer Hospital, and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Key Laboratory of the Research and Development of Novel Pharmaceutical Preparations, Changsha Medical University, Changsha, China
| | - Xiao-Ting Liu
- The Second People's Hospital of Hunan Province, Changsha, China
| | - Qian-Jin Liao
- Hunan Gynecological Tumor Clinical Research Center; Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism; Hunan Cancer Hospital, and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Public Service Platform of Tumor Organoids Technology, Changsha, China
| | - Nayiyuan Wu
- Hunan Gynecological Tumor Clinical Research Center; Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism; Hunan Cancer Hospital, and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Public Service Platform of Tumor Organoids Technology, Changsha, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Hunan Gynecological Tumor Clinical Research Center; Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism; Hunan Cancer Hospital, and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Public Service Platform of Tumor Organoids Technology, Changsha, China
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Ando R, Shiraki Y, Miyai Y, Shimizu H, Furuhashi K, Minatoguchi S, Kato K, Kato A, Iida T, Mizutani Y, Ito K, Asai N, Mii S, Esaki N, Takahashi M, Enomoto A. Meflin is a marker of pancreatic stellate cells involved in fibrosis and epithelial regeneration in the pancreas. J Pathol 2024; 262:61-75. [PMID: 37796386 DOI: 10.1002/path.6211] [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: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) are stromal cells in the pancreas that play an important role in pancreatic pathology. In chronic pancreatitis (CP) and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), PSCs are known to get activated to form myofibroblasts or cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) that promote stromal fibroinflammatory reactions. However, previous studies on PSCs were mainly based on the findings obtained using ex vivo expanded PSCs, with few studies that addressed the significance of in situ tissue-resident PSCs using animal models. Their contributions to fibrotic reactions in CP and PDAC are also lesser-known. These limitations in our understanding of PSC biology have been attributed to the lack of specific molecular markers of PSCs. Herein, we established Meflin (Islr), a glycosylphosphatidylinositol-anchored membrane protein, as a PSC-specific marker in both mouse and human by using human pancreatic tissue samples and Meflin reporter mice. Meflin-positive (Meflin+ ) cells contain lipid droplets and express the conventional PSC marker Desmin in normal mouse pancreas, with some cells also positive for Gli1, the marker of pancreatic tissue-resident fibroblasts. Three-dimensional analysis of the cleared pancreas of Meflin reporter mice showed that Meflin+ PSCs have long and thin cytoplasmic protrusions, and are localised on the abluminal side of vessels in the normal pancreas. Lineage tracing experiments revealed that Meflin+ PSCs constitute one of the origins of fibroblasts and CAFs in CP and PDAC, respectively. In these diseases, Meflin+ PSC-derived fibroblasts showed a distinctive morphology and distribution from Meflin+ PSCs in the normal pancreas. Furthermore, we showed that the genetic depletion of Meflin+ PSCs accelerated fibrosis and attenuated epithelial regeneration and stromal R-spondin 3 expression, thereby implying that Meflin+ PSCs and their lineage cells may support tissue recovery and Wnt/R-spondin signalling after pancreatic injury and PDAC development. Together, these data indicate that Meflin may be a marker specific to tissue-resident PSCs and useful for studying their biology in both health and disease. © 2023 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryota Ando
- Department of Pathology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Yukihiro Shiraki
- Department of Pathology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Yuki Miyai
- Department of Pathology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Hiroki Shimizu
- Department of Pathology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Furuhashi
- Department of Nephrology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Shun Minatoguchi
- Department of Nephrology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Katsuhiro Kato
- Department of Cardiology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Akira Kato
- Department of Pathology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Tadashi Iida
- Department of Pathology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Yasuyuki Mizutani
- Department of Pathology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Kisuke Ito
- Department of Pathology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Naoya Asai
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Japan
| | - Shinji Mii
- Department of Pathology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Nobutoshi Esaki
- Department of Pathology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Masahide Takahashi
- Division of International Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Japan
| | - Atsushi Enomoto
- Department of Pathology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Japan
- Center for One Medicine Innovative Translational Research, Gifu University Institute for Advanced Study, Gifu, Japan
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10
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Carter EP, Yoneten KK, Gavara N, Tyler EJ, Gauthier V, Murray ER, ten Dijke P, Cameron AJ, Pearce O, Grose RP. Opposing roles for ADAMTS2 and ADAMTS14 in myofibroblast differentiation and function. J Pathol 2024; 262:90-104. [PMID: 37929635 PMCID: PMC10953099 DOI: 10.1002/path.6214] [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: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Crosstalk between cancer and stellate cells is pivotal in pancreatic cancer, resulting in differentiation of stellate cells into myofibroblasts that drives tumour progression. To assess cooperative mechanisms in a 3D context, we generated chimeric spheroids using human and mouse cancer and stellate cells. Species-specific deconvolution of bulk-RNA sequencing data revealed cell type-specific transcriptomes underpinning invasion. This dataset highlighted stellate-specific expression of transcripts encoding the collagen-processing enzymes ADAMTS2 and ADAMTS14. Strikingly, loss of ADAMTS2 reduced, while loss of ADAMTS14 promoted, myofibroblast differentiation and invasion independently of their primary role in collagen-processing. Functional and proteomic analysis demonstrated that these two enzymes regulate myofibroblast differentiation through opposing roles in the regulation of transforming growth factor β availability, acting on the protease-specific substrates, Serpin E2 and fibulin 2, for ADAMTS2 and ADAMTS14, respectively. Showcasing a broader complexity for these enzymes, we uncovered a novel regulatory axis governing malignant behaviour of the pancreatic cancer stroma. © 2023 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward P Carter
- Centre for Tumour Biology, Barts Cancer InstituteQueen Mary University of LondonLondonUK
- Department of Life SciencesUniversity of BathBathUK
- Centre for Therapeutic Innovation, Faculty of ScienceUniversity of BathBathUK
| | - Kubra K Yoneten
- Centre for Tumour Biology, Barts Cancer InstituteQueen Mary University of LondonLondonUK
| | - Nuria Gavara
- Unitat de Biofísica i Bioenginyeria, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la SalutUniversitat de BarcelonaBarcelonaSpain
| | - Eleanor J Tyler
- Centre for Tumour Microenvironment, Barts Cancer InstituteQueen Mary University of LondonLondonUK
| | - Valentine Gauthier
- Centre for Tumour Microenvironment, Barts Cancer InstituteQueen Mary University of LondonLondonUK
| | - Elizabeth R Murray
- Centre for Tumour Biology, Barts Cancer InstituteQueen Mary University of LondonLondonUK
| | - Peter ten Dijke
- Oncode Institute and Department of Cell and Chemical BiologyLeiden University Medical CenterLeidenThe Netherlands
| | - Angus J Cameron
- Centre for Tumour Biology, Barts Cancer InstituteQueen Mary University of LondonLondonUK
| | - Oliver Pearce
- Centre for Tumour Microenvironment, Barts Cancer InstituteQueen Mary University of LondonLondonUK
| | - Richard P Grose
- Centre for Tumour Biology, Barts Cancer InstituteQueen Mary University of LondonLondonUK
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11
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Zhao T, Jiang T, Li X, Chang S, Sun Q, Kong F, Kong X, Wei F, He J, Hao J, Xie K. Nuclear GRP78 Promotes Metabolic Reprogramming and Therapeutic Resistance in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma. Clin Cancer Res 2023; 29:5183-5195. [PMID: 37819952 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-23-1143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Stromal fibrosis limits nutritional supply and disarrays metabolism in pancreatic cancer (PDA, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma). Understanding of the molecular basis underlying metabolic cues would improve PDA management. The current study determined the interaction between glucose-regulated proteins 78 (GRP78) and hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α) and its mechanistic roles underlying PDA response to oxygen and glucose restrains. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN Gene expression and its association with clinicopathologic characteristics of patients with PDA and mouse models were analyzed using IHC. Protein expression and their regulation were measured by Western blot and immunoprecipitation analyses. Protein interactions were determined using gain- and loss-of-function assays and molecular methods, including chromatin immunoprecipitation, co-immunoprecipitation, and dual luciferase reporter. RESULTS There was concomitant overexpression of both GRP78 and HIF-1α in human and mouse PDA tissues and cells. Glucose deprivation increased the expression of GRP78 and HIF-1α, particularly colocalization in nucleus. Induction of HIF-1α expression by glucose deprivation in PDA cells depended on the expression of and its own interaction with GRP78. Mechanistically, increased expression of both HIF-1α and LDHA under glucose deprivation was caused by the direct binding of GRP78 and HIF-1α protein complexes to the promoters of HIF-1α and LDHA genes and transactivation of their transcriptional activity. CONCLUSIONS Protein complex of GRP78 and HIF-1α directly binds to HIF-1α own promoter and LDHA promoter, enhances the transcription of both HIF-1α and LDHA, whereas glucose deprivation increases GRP78 expression and further enhances HIF-1α and LDHA transcription. Therefore, crosstalk and integration of hypoxia- and hypoglycemia-responsive signaling critically impact PDA metabolic reprogramming and therapeutic resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiansuo Zhao
- Department of Pancreatic Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, China
| | - Tingting Jiang
- Center for Pancreatic Cancer Research, The South China University of Technology School of Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaojia Li
- Center for Pancreatic Cancer Research, The South China University of Technology School of Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shaofei Chang
- Department of Pancreatic Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, China
| | - Qihui Sun
- Center for Pancreatic Cancer Research, The South China University of Technology School of Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fanyang Kong
- Department of Gastroenterology, Changhai Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiangyu Kong
- Department of Gastroenterology, Changhai Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Fang Wei
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Guangzhou First People's Hospital and The Second Affiliated Hospital, The South China University of Technology School of Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jie He
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Guangzhou First People's Hospital and The Second Affiliated Hospital, The South China University of Technology School of Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jihui Hao
- Department of Pancreatic Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, China
| | - Keping Xie
- Center for Pancreatic Cancer Research, The South China University of Technology School of Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Guangzhou First People's Hospital and The Second Affiliated Hospital, The South China University of Technology School of Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- The South China University of Technology Comprehensive Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
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12
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Hilmi M, Delaye M, Muzzolini M, Nicolle R, Cros J, Hammel P, Cardot-Ruffino V, Neuzillet C. The immunological landscape in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma and overcoming resistance to immunotherapy. Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 8:1129-1142. [PMID: 37866368 DOI: 10.1016/s2468-1253(23)00207-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2023] [Revised: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma is associated with a poor prognosis and there are few treatment options. The development of immunotherapy in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma has been difficult, and immune checkpoint inhibitors are only effective in a very small subset of patients. Most obstacles for treatment have been related to intertumoural and intratumoural heterogeneity, the composition of tumour stroma, and crosstalk with cancer cells. Improved molecular characterisation of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma and a better understanding of its microenvironment have paved the way for novel immunotherapy strategies, including the identification of predictive biomarkers, the development of rational combinations to optimise effectiveness, and the targeting of new mechanisms. Future immunotherapy strategies should consider individual characteristics to move beyond the traditional immune targets and circumvent the resistance to therapies that have been developed so far.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Hilmi
- Gastrointestinal Oncology, Medical Oncology Department, Institut Curie, Université Versailles Saint-Quentin-Université Paris-Saclay, Saint-Cloud, France; Molecular Oncology, PSL Research University, CNRS, UMR 144, Institut Curie, Paris, France
| | - Matthieu Delaye
- Gastrointestinal Oncology, Medical Oncology Department, Institut Curie, Université Versailles Saint-Quentin-Université Paris-Saclay, Saint-Cloud, France; Molecular Oncology, PSL Research University, CNRS, UMR 144, Institut Curie, Paris, France
| | - Milena Muzzolini
- Digestive Surgery Department, Ambroise Paré Hospital, APHP, Université Versailles Saint-Quentin-Université Paris-Saclay, Boulogne Billancourt, France
| | - Rémy Nicolle
- Université Paris Cité, Centre de Recherche sur l'Inflammation (CRI), INSERM, U1149, CNRS, ERL 8252, Paris, France
| | - Jérôme Cros
- Université Paris Cité, Pathology Department, Beaujon Hospital, FHU MOSAIC, AP-HP, Clichy, France
| | - Pascal Hammel
- Université Paris-Saclay, Department of Digestive and Medical Oncology, Paul-Brousse Hospital (APHP Sud), Villejuif, France
| | | | - Cindy Neuzillet
- Gastrointestinal Oncology, Medical Oncology Department, Institut Curie, Université Versailles Saint-Quentin-Université Paris-Saclay, Saint-Cloud, France; Molecular Oncology, PSL Research University, CNRS, UMR 144, Institut Curie, Paris, France.
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13
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Aguirre GA, Goulart MR, Dalli J, Kocher HM. Arachidonate 15-lipoxygenase-mediated production of Resolvin D5 n-3 DPA abrogates pancreatic stellate cell-induced cancer cell invasion. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1248547. [PMID: 38035115 PMCID: PMC10687150 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1248547] [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: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Activation of pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) to cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) is responsible for the extensive desmoplastic reaction observed in PDAC stroma: a key driver of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) chemoresistance leading to poor prognosis. Specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs) are prime modulators of inflammation and its resolution, traditionally thought to be produced by immune cells. Using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)-based lipid mediator profiling PSCs as well as primary human CAFs express enzymes and receptors to produce and respond to SPMs. Human PSC/CAF SPM secretion profile can be modulated by rendering these cells activated [transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β)] or quiescent [all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA)]. ATRA-induced nuclear translocation of arachidonate-15-lipoxygenase (ALOX15) was linked to increased production of n-3 docosapentaenoic acid-derived Resolvin D5 (RvD5n-3 DPA), among other SPMs. Inhibition of RvD5n-3 DPA formation increases cancer cell invasion, whereas addback of this molecule reduced activated PSC-mediated cancer cell invasion. We also observed that circulating concentrations of RvD5n-3 DPA levels were decreased in peripheral blood of metastatic PDAC patients when compared with those measured in plasma of non-metastatic PDAC patients. Together, these findings indicate that RvD5n-3 DPA may regulate cancer-stroma cross-talk and invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel A. Aguirre
- Centre for Tumour Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Jesmond Dalli
- William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, John Vane Science Centre, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Hemant M. Kocher
- Centre for Tumour Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, London, United Kingdom
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14
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Rulten SL, Grose RP, Gatz SA, Jones JL, Cameron AJM. The Future of Precision Oncology. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12613. [PMID: 37628794 PMCID: PMC10454858 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241612613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying cancer development and evolution have evolved rapidly over recent years, and the variation from one patient to another is now widely recognized. Consequently, one-size-fits-all approaches to the treatment of cancer have been superseded by precision medicines that target specific disease characteristics, promising maximum clinical efficacy, minimal safety concerns, and reduced economic burden. While precision oncology has been very successful in the treatment of some tumors with specific characteristics, a large number of patients do not yet have access to precision medicines for their disease. The success of next-generation precision oncology depends on the discovery of new actionable disease characteristics, rapid, accurate, and comprehensive diagnosis of complex phenotypes within each patient, novel clinical trial designs with improved response rates, and worldwide access to novel targeted anticancer therapies for all patients. This review outlines some of the current technological trends, and highlights some of the complex multidisciplinary efforts that are underway to ensure that many more patients with cancer will be able to benefit from precision oncology in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Richard P. Grose
- Centre for Tumour Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London EC1M 6BQ, UK; (R.P.G.); (J.L.J.)
| | - Susanne A. Gatz
- Cancer Research UK Clinical Trials Unit (CRCTU), Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK;
| | - J. Louise Jones
- Centre for Tumour Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London EC1M 6BQ, UK; (R.P.G.); (J.L.J.)
| | - Angus J. M. Cameron
- Centre for Tumour Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London EC1M 6BQ, UK; (R.P.G.); (J.L.J.)
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15
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Croft W, Pearce H, Margielewska-Davies S, Lim L, Nicol SM, Zayou F, Blakeway D, Marcon F, Powell-Brett S, Mahon B, Merard R, Zuo J, Middleton G, Roberts K, Brown RM, Moss P. Spatial determination and prognostic impact of the fibroblast transcriptome in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. eLife 2023; 12:e86125. [PMID: 37350578 PMCID: PMC10361717 DOI: 10.7554/elife.86125] [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: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma has a poor clinical outcome and responses to immunotherapy are suboptimal. Stromal fibroblasts are a dominant but heterogenous population within the tumor microenvironment and therapeutic targeting of stromal subsets may have therapeutic utility. Here, we combine spatial transcriptomics and scRNA-Seq datasets to define the transcriptome of tumor-proximal and tumor-distal cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and link this to clinical outcome. Tumor-proximal fibroblasts comprise large populations of myofibroblasts, strongly expressed podoplanin, and were enriched for Wnt ligand signaling. In contrast, inflammatory CAFs were dominant within tumor-distal subsets and expressed complement components and the Wnt-inhibitor SFRP2. Poor clinical outcome was correlated with elevated HIF-1α and podoplanin expression whilst expression of inflammatory and complement genes was predictive of extended survival. These findings demonstrate the extreme transcriptional heterogeneity of CAFs and its determination by apposition to tumor. Selective targeting of tumor-proximal subsets, potentially combined with HIF-1α inhibition and immune stimulation, may offer a multi-modal therapeutic approach for this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wayne Croft
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of BirminghamBirminghamUnited Kingdom
- Centre for Computational Biology, University of BirminghamBirminghamUnited Kingdom
| | - Hayden Pearce
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of BirminghamBirminghamUnited Kingdom
| | - Sandra Margielewska-Davies
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of BirminghamBirminghamUnited Kingdom
| | - Lindsay Lim
- Cancer Research Horizons, The Francis Crick InstituteLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Samantha M Nicol
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of BirminghamBirminghamUnited Kingdom
| | - Fouzia Zayou
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of BirminghamBirminghamUnited Kingdom
| | - Daniel Blakeway
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of BirminghamBirminghamUnited Kingdom
| | - Francesca Marcon
- University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Queen Elizabeth Hospital BirminghamBirminghamUnited Kingdom
| | - Sarah Powell-Brett
- University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Queen Elizabeth Hospital BirminghamBirminghamUnited Kingdom
| | - Brinder Mahon
- University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Queen Elizabeth Hospital BirminghamBirminghamUnited Kingdom
| | - Reena Merard
- University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Queen Elizabeth Hospital BirminghamBirminghamUnited Kingdom
| | - Jianmin Zuo
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of BirminghamBirminghamUnited Kingdom
| | - Gary Middleton
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of BirminghamBirminghamUnited Kingdom
- University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Queen Elizabeth Hospital BirminghamBirminghamUnited Kingdom
| | - Keith Roberts
- University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Queen Elizabeth Hospital BirminghamBirminghamUnited Kingdom
| | - Rachel M Brown
- University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Queen Elizabeth Hospital BirminghamBirminghamUnited Kingdom
| | - Paul Moss
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of BirminghamBirminghamUnited Kingdom
- University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Queen Elizabeth Hospital BirminghamBirminghamUnited Kingdom
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16
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Luo W, Zhang T. Cancer-associated fibroblasts: A key target to snatch victory from defeat in therapy resistance associated with the pancreatic cancer stroma. Cancer Lett 2023:216279. [PMID: 37336287 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2023.216279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023]
Abstract
The stroma plays a dual role in the tumour microenvironment (TME), where it can both promote or restrict tumour growth. These effects are significantly modulated by the presence of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), key components of the TME. The stroma and CAFs influence pancreatic cancer (PC) both physically and functionally. The physical impact involves the deposition of a wall-like matrix, creating a solid barrier that prevents the escape of materials from the inside and the entry of substances from the outside. Functionally, the stroma influences PC treatment through crosstalk between CAFs, cancer cells, and immune cells. Transformation of the "CAFs wall", however, may reduce the original benefit of limiting PC metastasis. In this review, we found that targeting the CAFs and designing novel carriers allowing the entry of drugs or therapeutic agents into the TME are alternative strategies to effectively treat PC. This article aims to provide a specific review focusing on the possibly therapeutic markers and its novel therapeutic strategies of CAFs in PC, discussing the concise treatment methods and its new challenging in current advanced researches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhao Luo
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China.
| | - Taiping Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China.
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17
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Peng Z, Tong Z, Ren Z, Ye M, Hu K. Cancer-associated fibroblasts and its derived exosomes: a new perspective for reshaping the tumor microenvironment. Mol Med 2023; 29:66. [PMID: 37217855 DOI: 10.1186/s10020-023-00665-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are the most abundant stromal cells within the tumor microenvironment (TME). They extensively communicate with the other cells. Exosome-packed bioactive molecules derived from CAFs can reshape the TME by interacting with other cells and the extracellular matrix, which adds a new perspective for their clinical application in tumor targeted therapy. An in-depth understanding of the biological characteristics of CAF-derived exosomes (CDEs) is critical for depicting the detailed landscape of the TME and developing tailored therapeutic strategies for cancer treatment. In this review, we have summarized the functional roles of CAFs in the TME, particularly focusing on the extensive communication mediated by CDEs that contain biological molecules such as miRNAs, proteins, metabolites, and other components. In addition, we have also highlighted the prospects for diagnostic and therapeutic applications based on CDEs, which could guide the future development of exosome-targeted anti-tumor drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiwei Peng
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Anhui, Hefei, 230022, China
| | - Zhiwei Tong
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Anhui, Hefei, 230022, China
| | - Zihao Ren
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Anhui, Hefei, 230022, China
| | - Manping Ye
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Major Autoimmune Diseases, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Anhui, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Kongwang Hu
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Anhui, Hefei, 230022, China.
- Department of General Surgery, Fuyang Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Anhui, Fuyang, 236000, China.
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18
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Martinez-Zubiaurre I, Hellevik T. Cancer-associated fibroblasts in radiotherapy: Bystanders or protagonists? Cell Commun Signal 2023; 21:108. [PMID: 37170098 PMCID: PMC10173661 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01093-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The primary goal of radiotherapy (RT) is to induce cellular damage on malignant cells; however, it is becoming increasingly recognized the important role played by the tumor microenvironment (TME) in therapy outcomes. Therapeutic irradiation of tumor lesions provokes profound cellular and biological reconfigurations within the TME that ultimately may influence the fate of the therapy. MAIN CONTENT Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are known to participate in all stages of cancer progression and are increasingly acknowledged to contribute to therapy resistance. Accumulated evidence suggests that, upon radiation, fibroblasts/CAFs avoid cell death but instead enter a permanent senescent state, which in turn may influence the behavior of tumor cells and other components of the TME. Despite the proposed participation of senescent fibroblasts on tumor radioprotection, it is still incompletely understood the impact that RT has on CAFs and the ultimate role that irradiated CAFs have on therapy outcomes. Some of the current controversies may emerge from generalizing observations obtained using normal fibroblasts and CAFs, which are different cell entities that may respond differently to radiation exposure. CONCLUSION In this review we present current knowledge on the field of CAFs role in radiotherapy; we discuss the potential tumorigenic functions of radiation-induced senescent fibroblasts and CAFs and we make an effort to integrate the knowledge emerging from preclinical experimentation with observations from the clinics. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inigo Martinez-Zubiaurre
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Postbox 6050, 9037, Langnes, Tromsö, Norway.
| | - Turid Hellevik
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital of North Norway, Postbox 100, 9038, Tromsö, Norway
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19
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Sun S, Zhang Y, Li Y, Wei L. Crosstalk between colorectal cancer cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts in the tumor microenvironment mediated by exosomal noncoding RNAs. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1161628. [PMID: 37234178 PMCID: PMC10206140 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1161628] [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: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common malignant tumor of the digestive system, and its morbidity rates are increasing worldwide. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), as part of the tumor microenvironment (TME), are not only closely linked to normal fibroblasts, but also can secrete a variety of substances (including exosomes) to participate in the regulation of the TME. Exosomes can play a key role in intercellular communication by delivering intracellular signaling substances (e.g., proteins, nucleic acids, non-coding RNAs), and an increasing number of studies have shown that non-coding RNAs of exosomal origin from CAFs are not only closely associated with the formation of the CRC microenvironment, but also increase the ability of CRC to grow in metastasis, mediate tumor immunosuppression, and are involved in the mechanism of drug resistance in CRC patients receiving. It is also involved in the mechanism of drug resistance after radiotherapy in CRC patients. In this paper, we review the current status and progress of research on CAFs-derived exosomal non-coding RNAs in CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Linlin Wei
- Department of Radiotherapy, Liaoning Cancer Hospital & Institute, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
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20
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Edwards PAW. Re-interpreting tumour behaviour and the tumour microenvironment as normal responses to tissue disorganisation. J Pathol 2023; 260:1-4. [PMID: 36811403 PMCID: PMC10952351 DOI: 10.1002/path.6070] [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: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
Much of tumour cell biology and the tumour microenvironment may be normal wound-healing responses as a consequence of the disruption of tissue structure. This is why tumours resemble wounds, and many features of the tumour microenvironment, such as the epithelial-mesenchymal transition, cancer-associated fibroblasts, and inflammatory infiltrates, may largely be normal responses to abnormal tissue structure, not an exploitation of wound-healing biology. © 2023 The Author. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
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21
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COL12A1 Acts as a Novel Prognosis Biomarker and Activates Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts in Pancreatic Cancer through Bioinformatics and Experimental Validation. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15051480. [PMID: 36900272 PMCID: PMC10000532 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15051480] [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: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer remains one of the most challenging malignancies to date and is associated with poor survival. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are key stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME) that play a crucial role in tumor progression in pancreatic cancer. Thus, uncovering the key genes involved in CAF progression and determining their prognostic value is critically important. Herein, we report our discoveries in this research area. Analysis of The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) dataset and investigation of our clinical tissue samples indicated that COL12A1 expression was aberrantly highly expressed in pancreatic cancer. Survival and COX regression analyses revealed the significant clinical prognostic value of COL12A1 expression in pancreatic cancer. COL12A1 was mainly expressed in CAFs but not in tumor cells. This was verified with our PCR analysis in cancer cells and CAFs. The knocking down of COL12A1 decreased the proliferation and migration of CAFs and down-regulated the expression of CAF activation markers actin alpha 2 (ACTA2), fibroblast activation protein (FAP), and fibroblast-specific protein 1 (FSP1). Meanwhile, the interleukin 6 (IL6), CXC chemokine Ligand-5 (CXCL5), and CXC chemokine Ligand-10 (CXCL10) expressions were inhibited, and the cancer-promoting effect was reversed by COL12A1 knockdown. Therefore, we demonstrated the potential prognostic and target therapy value of COL12A1 expression in pancreatic cancer and elucidated the molecular mechanism underlying its role in CAFs. The findings of this study might provide new opportunities for TME-targeted therapies in pancreatic cancer.
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22
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Coetzee AS, Carter EP, Rodríguez-Fernández L, Heward J, Wang Q, Karim SA, Boughetane L, Milton C, Uyulur F, Morton JP, Kocher HM, Grose RP. Nuclear FGFR1 promotes pancreatic stellate cell-driven invasion through up-regulation of Neuregulin 1. Oncogene 2023; 42:491-500. [PMID: 36357571 PMCID: PMC9918430 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-022-02513-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) are key to the treatment-refractory desmoplastic phenotype of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and have received considerable attention as a stromal target for cancer therapy. This approach demands detailed understanding of their pro- and anti-tumourigenic effects. Interrogating PSC-cancer cell interactions in 3D models, we identified nuclear FGFR1 as critical for PSC-led invasion of cancer cells. ChIP-seq analysis of FGFR1 in PSCs revealed a number of FGFR1 interaction sites within the genome, notably NRG1, which encodes the ERBB ligand Neuregulin. We show that nuclear FGFR1 regulates transcription of NRG1, which in turn acts in autocrine fashion through an ERBB2/4 heterodimer to promote invasion. In support of this, recombinant NRG1 in 3D model systems rescued the loss of invasion incurred by FGFR inhibition. In vivo we demonstrate that, while FGFR inhibition does not affect the growth of pancreatic tumours in mice, local invasion into the pancreas is reduced. Thus, FGFR and NRG1 may present new stromal targets for PDAC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail S Coetzee
- Centre for Tumour Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Edward P Carter
- Centre for Tumour Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Lucía Rodríguez-Fernández
- Centre for Tumour Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - James Heward
- Centre for Cancer Genomics and Computational Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Qiaoying Wang
- Centre for Tumour Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Saadia A Karim
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Glasgow, G61 1BD, UK
| | - Lina Boughetane
- Centre for Tumour Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Christopher Milton
- Centre for Tumour Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Firat Uyulur
- Centre for Cancer Genomics and Computational Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Jennifer P Morton
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Glasgow, G61 1BD, UK
- Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G61 1QH, UK
| | - Hemant M Kocher
- Centre for Tumour Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK.
| | - Richard P Grose
- Centre for Tumour Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK.
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23
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Alexander PG, van Wyk HC, Pennel KAF, Hay J, McMillan DC, Horgan PG, Roxburgh CSD, Edwards J, Park JH. The Glasgow Microenvironment Score and risk and site of recurrence in TNM I-III colorectal cancer. Br J Cancer 2023; 128:556-567. [PMID: 36476660 PMCID: PMC9938140 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-022-02069-x] [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: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Glasgow Microenvironment Score (GMS) stratifies long-term survival into three groups based on tumour phenotype: peritumoural inflammation (Klintrup-Mäkinen (KM)) and tumour stroma percentage (TSP). However, it is not known if the location of disease recurrence is influenced by the GMS category. METHODS Seven hundred and eighty-three TNM I-III colorectal cancers (CRC) were included. GMS (GMS0-high KM; GMS1-low KM, low TSP; GMS2-low KM, high TSP) and cancer-specific survival (CSS), overall survival (OS) and disease recurrence were assessed using Cox regression analysis. RESULTS Of the 783 patients, 221 developed CRC recurrence; 65 developed local recurrence + systemic disease. GMS was independent for CSS (HR 1.50, 95% CI 1.17-1.92, p < 0.001) and OS (HR 1.23, 1.05-1.44, p = 0.01). Higher GMS category was associated with T-stage, N-stage, emergency presentation and venous invasion. GMS was independent for local+systemic recurrence (HR 11.53, 95% CI 1.45-91.85, p = 0.04) and distant-only recurrence (HR 3.01, 95% CI 1.59-5.71, p = 0.002). GMS 2 disease did not appear to have statistically better outcomes with adjuvant chemotherapy in high-risk disease. CONCLUSION Although confounded by a higher rate of T4 and node-positive disease, GMS 1 and 2 are associated with an increased risk of local and distant recurrence. GMS is an independent poor prognostic indicator for recurrent colorectal cancer. Higher GMS patients may benefit from enhanced postoperative surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- P G Alexander
- School of Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK.
| | - H C van Wyk
- School of Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - K A F Pennel
- Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - J Hay
- Glasgow Tissue Research Facility, University of Glasgow, Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Glasgow, UK
| | - D C McMillan
- School of Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - P G Horgan
- School of Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - C S D Roxburgh
- School of Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
- Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - J Edwards
- Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - J H Park
- School of Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
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24
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Ding J, Qiu J, Hao Z, Huang H, Liu Q, Liu W, Ren C, Hacker M, Zhang T, Wu W, Huo L, Li X. Prognostic value of preoperative [ 68 Ga]Ga-FAPI-04 PET/CT in patients with resectable pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma in correlation with immunohistological characteristics. Eur J Nucl Med Mol Imaging 2023; 50:1780-1791. [PMID: 36695823 DOI: 10.1007/s00259-022-06100-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Our aim was to assess the prognostic value of [68 Ga]Ga-FAPI-04 positron emission tomography (PET) uptake in PDAC and to evaluate the correlation between in vivo lesional radioactivity with pathological characteristics of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). METHODS We retrospectively analyzed treatment-naïve PDAC patients who underwent preoperative [68 Ga]Ga-FAPI-04 PET/CT followed by pancreatectomy. The tracer uptake was determined as maximum tumor standardized uptake value (SUVmax), FAPI-avid tumor volume (FTV), total lesion FAP expression (TLF) as well total pancreatic uptake (TSUVmax), total FAPI-avid pancreatic volume (FPV), and total pancreatic FAP expression (TPF). Spearman's correlation analysis was performed to evaluate the association between [68 Ga]Ga-FAPI-04 PET/CT imaging and ex vivo immunohistological FAP expression and pathological characteristics of surgical specimens (differentiation, size, vascularity, perineural invasion, and lymph node metastases). Kaplan-Meier and hazard ratio (HR, log-rank) methods were used to evaluate the prognostic value of [68 Ga]Ga-FAPI-04 PET/CT and clinicopathological factors. RESULTS Thirty-seven surgical PDAC patients were included. The ex vivo expression of FAP was significantly associated with the tumor SUVmax and TLF. FAP expression was more abundant in poorly differentiated PDAC than in well- to moderately differentiated neoplasms. Tumor SUVmax or TLF and pancreatic TSUVmax or TPF were significantly correlated with tumor size, differentiation, and perineural invasion, respectively. SUVmax had a significant independent prognostic value for recurrence-free survival (HR = 2.46, P < 0.05), while [68 Ga]Ga-FAPI-04 TPF predicted overall survival (HR = 12.82, P < 0.05). CONCLUSION The in vivo [68 Ga]Ga-FAPI-04 uptake in localized PDAC showed a significant correlation with ex vivo FAP expression and aggressive pathological characteristics. [68 Ga]Ga-FAPI-04 PET/CT also presented a potential for postoperative prognostication of PDAC. Elevated fibroblast activity induced by obstructive pancreatitis might be associated with the patient's survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Ding
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Beijing Key Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Diagnosis and Therapy in Nuclear Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College (PUMC) Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and PUMC, Beijing, China
| | - Jiangdong Qiu
- Department of General Surgery, PUMC Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and PUMC, Beijing, China
| | - Zhixin Hao
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Beijing Key Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Diagnosis and Therapy in Nuclear Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College (PUMC) Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and PUMC, Beijing, China
| | - Hua Huang
- Department of General Surgery, PUMC Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and PUMC, Beijing, China
| | - Qiaofei Liu
- Department of General Surgery, PUMC Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and PUMC, Beijing, China
| | - Wenjing Liu
- Department of General Surgery, PUMC Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and PUMC, Beijing, China
| | - Chao Ren
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Beijing Key Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Diagnosis and Therapy in Nuclear Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College (PUMC) Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and PUMC, Beijing, China
| | - Marcus Hacker
- Division of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-Guided Therapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Taiping Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, PUMC Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and PUMC, Beijing, China.
| | - Wenming Wu
- Department of General Surgery, PUMC Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and PUMC, Beijing, China.
| | - Li Huo
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Beijing Key Laboratory of Molecular Targeted Diagnosis and Therapy in Nuclear Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College (PUMC) Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and PUMC, Beijing, China.
| | - Xiang Li
- Division of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-Guided Therapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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25
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Tanaka HY, Nakazawa T, Enomoto A, Masamune A, Kano MR. Therapeutic Strategies to Overcome Fibrotic Barriers to Nanomedicine in the Pancreatic Tumor Microenvironment. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15030724. [PMID: 36765684 PMCID: PMC9913712 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15030724] [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: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is notorious for its dismal prognosis. The enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect theory posits that nanomedicines (therapeutics in the size range of approximately 10-200 nm) selectively accumulate in tumors. Nanomedicine has thus been suggested to be the "magic bullet"-both effective and safe-to treat pancreatic cancer. However, the densely fibrotic tumor microenvironment of pancreatic cancer impedes nanomedicine delivery. The EPR effect is thus insufficient to achieve a significant therapeutic effect. Intratumoral fibrosis is chiefly driven by aberrantly activated fibroblasts and the extracellular matrix (ECM) components secreted. Fibroblast and ECM abnormalities offer various potential targets for therapeutic intervention. In this review, we detail the diverse strategies being tested to overcome the fibrotic barriers to nanomedicine in pancreatic cancer. Strategies that target the fibrotic tissue/process are discussed first, which are followed by strategies to optimize nanomedicine design. We provide an overview of how a deeper understanding, increasingly at single-cell resolution, of fibroblast biology is revealing the complex role of the fibrotic stroma in pancreatic cancer pathogenesis and consider the therapeutic implications. Finally, we discuss critical gaps in our understanding and how we might better formulate strategies to successfully overcome the fibrotic barriers in pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroyoshi Y. Tanaka
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biomedicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, 1-1-1 Tsushima-naka, Kita-ku, Okayama-shi 700-8530, Okayama, Japan
| | - Takuya Nakazawa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biomedicine, Graduate School of Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering in Health Systems, Okayama University, 1-1-1 Tsushima-naka, Kita-ku, Okayama-shi 700-8530, Okayama, Japan
| | - Atsushi Enomoto
- Department of Pathology, Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya University, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya-shi 466-8550, Aichi, Japan
| | - Atsushi Masamune
- Division of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Tohoku University, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai-shi 980-8574, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Mitsunobu R. Kano
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biomedicine, Graduate School of Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering in Health Systems, Okayama University, 1-1-1 Tsushima-naka, Kita-ku, Okayama-shi 700-8530, Okayama, Japan
- Correspondence:
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26
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Luong T, Golivi Y, Nagaraju GP, El-Rayes BF. Fibroblast heterogeneity in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma: Perspectives in immunotherapy. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2022; 68:107-115. [PMID: 36096869 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2022.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), the key component in pancreatic tumor microenvironment (TME), originate from many sources and are naturally heterogeneous in phenotype and function. Numerous studies have identified their crucial role in promoting tumorigenesis through many routes including fostering cancer proliferation, angiogenesis, invasion, and metastasis. Conversely, research also indicates that subsets of CAFs express anti-tumor activity. These dual effects reflect the complexity of CAF heterogeneity and their interactions with other cells and factors in pancreatic TME. A critical component in this environment is infiltrated immune cells and immune mediators, which can communicate with CAFs. The crosstalk occurs via the production of various cytokines, chemokines, and other mediators and shapes the immunological state in TME. Comprehensive studies of the crosstalk between CAFs and tumor immune environment, particularly internal mechanisms interlinking CAFs and immune effectors, may provide new approaches for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) treatments. In this review, we explore the characteristics of CAFs, describe the interplay among CAFs, infiltrated immune cells, other mediators, and provide an overview of recent CAF-target therapies, their limitations, and potential research directions in CAF in the context of PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tha Luong
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL 35201, USA
| | - Yuvasri Golivi
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL 35201, USA
| | - Ganji Purnachandra Nagaraju
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL 35201, USA.
| | - Bassel F El-Rayes
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL 35201, USA.
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27
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Zhang T, Ren Y, Yang P, Wang J, Zhou H. Cancer-associated fibroblasts in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:897. [PMID: 36284087 PMCID: PMC9596464 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-05351-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a lethal cancer with a prominent extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition and poor prognosis. High levels of ECM proteins derived from tumour cells reduce the efficacy of conventional cancer treatment paradigms and contribute to tumour progression and metastasis. As abundant tumour-promoting cells in the ECM, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are promising targets for novel anti-tumour interventions. Nonetheless, related clinical trials are hampered by the lack of specific markers and elusive differences between CAF subtypes. Here, we review the origins and functional diversity of CAFs and show how they create a tumour-promoting milieu, focusing on the crosstalk between CAFs, tumour cells, and immune cells in the tumour microenvironment. Furthermore, relevant clinical advances and potential therapeutic strategies relating to CAFs are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianyi Zhang
- grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China ,grid.450259.f0000 0004 1804 2516Key Laboratory of Space Radiobiology of Gansu Province & Key Laboratory of Heavy Ion Radiation Biology and Medicine, Institute of Modern Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yanxian Ren
- grid.412643.60000 0004 1757 2902Department of General Surgery, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Pengfei Yang
- grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China ,grid.450259.f0000 0004 1804 2516Key Laboratory of Space Radiobiology of Gansu Province & Key Laboratory of Heavy Ion Radiation Biology and Medicine, Institute of Modern Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Jufang Wang
- grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China ,grid.450259.f0000 0004 1804 2516Key Laboratory of Space Radiobiology of Gansu Province & Key Laboratory of Heavy Ion Radiation Biology and Medicine, Institute of Modern Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Heng Zhou
- grid.410726.60000 0004 1797 8419University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China ,grid.450259.f0000 0004 1804 2516Key Laboratory of Space Radiobiology of Gansu Province & Key Laboratory of Heavy Ion Radiation Biology and Medicine, Institute of Modern Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, China
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28
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Liu T, Cheng S, Xu Q, Wang Z. Management of Advanced Pancreatic Cancer through Stromal Depletion and Immune Modulation. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2022; 58:medicina58091298. [PMID: 36143975 PMCID: PMC9502806 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58091298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 09/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Unfortunately, therapeutic gains in the treatment of other cancers have not successfully translated to pancreatic cancer treatments. Management of pancreatic cancer is difficult due to the lack of effective therapies and the rapid development of drug resistance. The cytotoxic agent gemcitabine has historically been the first-line treatment, but combinations of other immunomodulating and stroma-depleting drugs are currently undergoing clinical testing. Moreover, the treatment of pancreatic cancer is complicated by its heterogeneity: analysis of genomic alterations and expression patterns has led to the definition of multiple subtypes, but their usefulness in the clinical setting is limited by inter-tumoral and inter-personal variability. In addition, various cell types in the tumor microenvironment exert immunosuppressive effects that worsen prognosis. In this review, we discuss current perceptions of molecular features and the tumor microenvironment in pancreatic cancer, and we summarize emerging drug options that can complement traditional chemotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiantong Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100006, China
| | - Sihang Cheng
- Department of Radiology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100006, China
| | - Qiang Xu
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100006, China
- Correspondence: (Q.X.); (Z.W.); Tel.: +86-10-69156007 (Q.X.); +86-10-69159567 (Z.W.)
| | - Zhiwei Wang
- Department of Radiology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100006, China
- Correspondence: (Q.X.); (Z.W.); Tel.: +86-10-69156007 (Q.X.); +86-10-69159567 (Z.W.)
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29
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Zhu XX, Li JH, Ni X, Wu X, Hou X, Li YX, Li SJ, Zhao W, Yin XY. Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma cells regulated the gemcitabine-resistance function of CAFs by LINC00460. Cancer Sci 2022; 113:3735-3750. [PMID: 36047966 PMCID: PMC9633316 DOI: 10.1111/cas.15547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly fatal malignancy with extremely poor prognosis. Gemcitabine resistance is a major challenge in the treatment of PDAC. Here, we showed that LINC00460 was associated with the response to gemcitabine both in PDAC patients and PDAC‐PDX. After knocking down LINC00460 in PDAC tumor cells, results of RNA sequencing followed by gene ontology analysis indicated that LINC00460 influenced the activity of growth factors and modified the extracellular matrix. FISH showed that LINC00460 is mostly located in the cytoplasm. Results of RNA pull‐down, LC–MS/MS, RIP, and immunoblotting confirmed that LINC00460 could directly bind to PDAP1. Furthermore, we demonstrated that LINC00460 mediated the cellular communication of PDAC tumor cells and CAFs by PDAP1/PDGFA/PDGFR signaling pathway and regulated the gemcitabine‐resistance function of CAFs, which could be reversed by treatment with a PDGFR inhibitor (crenolanib). PDAC‐PDX tumors with lower expression of LINC00460 showed a better response to gemcitabine plus crenolanib treatment. Our finding supported the application of LINC00460 in precision medicine that uses gemcitabine plus crenolanib to treat PDAC with low expression of LINC00460.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Xu Zhu
- Department of Pancreato-Biliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jian-Hui Li
- Department of Pancreato-Biliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xuhao Ni
- Department of Pancreato-Biliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiao Wu
- Department of Pancreato-Biliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xun Hou
- Center for Gastrointestinal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Ya-Xiong Li
- Department of Pancreato-Biliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Shi-Jin Li
- Department of Pancreato-Biliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Wei Zhao
- Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Yu Yin
- Department of Pancreato-Biliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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30
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Ando R, Sakai A, Iida T, Kataoka K, Mizutani Y, Enomoto A. Good and Bad Stroma in Pancreatic Cancer: Relevance of Functional States of Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14143315. [PMID: 35884375 PMCID: PMC9317763 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14143315] [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: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 07/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Recent progress in research on the biology of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) indicates their diverse states and plasticity, which may lead to good and bad stroma, suppressing and promoting cancer progression, respectively. The characteristics of the stroma differ spatially, even within the same tumors, based on the balance between cancer-restraining CAF and cancer-promoting CAF proliferation at the site. These heterogeneous CAFs also influence the sensitivity of PDAC to anticancer therapeutics. Further preclinical and clinical studies will advance our understanding of the roles of CAFs in disease progression and aid the development of therapeutics that modulate or ameliorate the tumor microenvironment in PDAC. Abstract A well-known feature of human pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the extensive proliferation of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and highly fibrotic stroma. Recent evidence, based mainly on single-cell analyses, has identified various subsets of CAFs in PDAC mouse models. However, we do not know how these CAF subsets are involved in the progression and drug resistance of human PDAC. Additionally, it remains unclear whether these diverse CAFs have distinct origins and are indicators of genuinely distinct CAF lineages or reflect different states of the same CAFs depending on the tumor microenvironment. Interestingly, recent preclinical studies have started to characterize the nature of cancer-restraining CAFs and have identified their markers Meflin and collagen type I alpha 1. These studies have led to the development of strategies to induce changes in CAF phenotypes using chemical reagents or recombinant viruses, and some of them have been tested in clinical studies. These strategies have the unique potential to convert the so-called bad stroma to good stroma and may also have therapeutic implications for non-cancer diseases such as fibrotic diseases. Together with recently developed sophisticated strategies that specifically target distinct CAF subsets via adoptive cell transfer therapy, vaccination, and antibody–drug conjugates, any future findings arising from these clinical efforts may expand our understanding of the significance of CAF diversity in human PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryota Ando
- Department of Pathology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan; (R.A.); (A.S.); (T.I.); (K.K.); (Y.M.)
| | - Akihiro Sakai
- Department of Pathology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan; (R.A.); (A.S.); (T.I.); (K.K.); (Y.M.)
| | - Tadashi Iida
- Department of Pathology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan; (R.A.); (A.S.); (T.I.); (K.K.); (Y.M.)
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
| | - Kunio Kataoka
- Department of Pathology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan; (R.A.); (A.S.); (T.I.); (K.K.); (Y.M.)
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
| | - Yasuyuki Mizutani
- Department of Pathology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan; (R.A.); (A.S.); (T.I.); (K.K.); (Y.M.)
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
| | - Atsushi Enomoto
- Department of Pathology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan; (R.A.); (A.S.); (T.I.); (K.K.); (Y.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-52-744-2093
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31
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Herrington CS, Poulsom R, Pillay N, Bankhead P, Coates PJ. Recent Advances in Pathology: the 2022 Annual Review Issue of The Journal of Pathology. J Pathol 2022; 257:379-382. [PMID: 35635736 DOI: 10.1002/path.5972] [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: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
The 2022 Annual Review Issue of The Journal of Pathology, Recent Advances in Pathology, contains 15 invited reviews on research areas of growing importance in pathology. This year, the articles include those that focus on digital pathology, employing modern imaging techniques and software to enable improved diagnostic and research applications to study human diseases. This subject area includes the ability to identify specific genetic alterations through the morphological changes they induce, as well as integrating digital and computational pathology with 'omics technologies. Other reviews in this issue include an updated evaluation of mutational patterns (mutation signatures) in cancer, the applications of lineage tracing in human tissues, and single cell sequencing technologies to uncover tumour evolution and tumour heterogeneity. The tissue microenvironment is covered in reviews specifically dealing with proteolytic control of epidermal differentiation, cancer-associated fibroblasts, field cancerisation, and host factors that determine tumour immunity. All of the reviews contained in this issue are the work of invited experts selected to discuss the considerable recent progress in their respective fields and are freely available online (https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/journal/10969896). © 2022 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Simon Herrington
- Edinburgh Cancer Research Centre, Institute of Genetics and Cancer, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Edinburgh Pathology, Institute of Genetics and Cancer, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Richard Poulsom
- The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland, London, UK
| | - Nischalan Pillay
- Sarcoma Biology and Genomics Group, UCL Cancer Institute, London, UK
- Department of Histopathology, The Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Peter Bankhead
- Edinburgh Cancer Research Centre, Institute of Genetics and Cancer, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Edinburgh Pathology, Institute of Genetics and Cancer, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Centre for Genomic & Experimental Medicine, Institute of Genetics and Cancer, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Philip J Coates
- RECAMO, Masaryk Memorial Cancer Institute, Brno, Czech Republic
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