1
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Chu X, Tian W, Ning J, Xiao G, Zhou Y, Wang Z, Zhai Z, Tanzhu G, Yang J, Zhou R. Cancer stem cells: advances in knowledge and implications for cancer therapy. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:170. [PMID: 38965243 PMCID: PMC11224386 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01851-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs), a small subset of cells in tumors that are characterized by self-renewal and continuous proliferation, lead to tumorigenesis, metastasis, and maintain tumor heterogeneity. Cancer continues to be a significant global disease burden. In the past, surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy were the main cancer treatments. The technology of cancer treatments continues to develop and advance, and the emergence of targeted therapy, and immunotherapy provides more options for patients to a certain extent. However, the limitations of efficacy and treatment resistance are still inevitable. Our review begins with a brief introduction of the historical discoveries, original hypotheses, and pathways that regulate CSCs, such as WNT/β-Catenin, hedgehog, Notch, NF-κB, JAK/STAT, TGF-β, PI3K/AKT, PPAR pathway, and their crosstalk. We focus on the role of CSCs in various therapeutic outcomes and resistance, including how the treatments affect the content of CSCs and the alteration of related molecules, CSCs-mediated therapeutic resistance, and the clinical value of targeting CSCs in patients with refractory, progressed or advanced tumors. In summary, CSCs affect therapeutic efficacy, and the treatment method of targeting CSCs is still difficult to determine. Clarifying regulatory mechanisms and targeting biomarkers of CSCs is currently the mainstream idea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianjing Chu
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Wentao Tian
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Jiaoyang Ning
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Gang Xiao
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Yunqi Zhou
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Ziqi Wang
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Zhuofan Zhai
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Guilong Tanzhu
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China.
| | - Jie Yang
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China.
- Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China.
| | - Rongrong Zhou
- Department of Oncology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China.
- Xiangya Lung Cancer Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan Province, 410008, China.
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2
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Yang L, Hu Q, Huang T. Breast Cancer Treatment Strategies Targeting the Tumor Microenvironment: How to Convert "Cold" Tumors to "Hot" Tumors. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7208. [PMID: 39000314 PMCID: PMC11241188 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25137208] [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: 05/15/2024] [Revised: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer characterized as "cold tumors" exhibit low levels of immune cell infiltration, which limits the efficacy of conventional immunotherapy. Recent studies have focused on strategies using nanotechnology combined with tumor microenvironment modulation to transform "cold tumors" into "hot tumors". This approach involves the use of functionalized nanoparticles that target and modify the tumor microenvironment to promote the infiltration and activation of antitumor immune cells. By delivering immune activators or blocking immunosuppressive signals, these nanoparticles activate otherwise dormant immune responses, enhancing tumor immunogenicity and the therapeutic response. These strategies not only promise to increase the response rate of breast cancer patients to existing immunotherapies but also may pave new therapeutic avenues, providing a new direction for the immunotherapy of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liucui Yang
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Qingyi Hu
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Tao Huang
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
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3
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Wang J, Zhang Q, Zhou D, Wang Y, Che H, Ge Y, Zhong Z, Wu G. Systematic analysis of fatty acid desaturases in breast invasive carcinoma: The prognosis, gene mutation, and tumor immune microenvironment. Medicine (Baltimore) 2024; 103:e38597. [PMID: 38905386 PMCID: PMC11191958 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000038597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Breast invasive carcinoma (BRCA) is one of the most common cancers in women, with its malignant progression significantly influenced by intracellular fatty acid (FA) desaturation. Stearoyl-coenzyme A desaturase (SCD) and fatty acid desaturase 2 (FADS2) are two key rate-limiting enzymes that catalyze the FA desaturation process and cooperate to accelerate lipid metabolic activities. In this study, we investigated the potential functions of SCD and FADS2 in BRCA using bioinformatic analysis and experimental validation. The gene expression profiling interactive analysis database showed that the expression of SCD or FADS2 genes was positively linked to worse overall survival and disease-free survival in the Cancer Genome Atlas database-BRCA. The University of Alabama at Birmingham cancer data analysis portal database indicates that the expression and methylation levels of SCD or FADS2 are associated with various clinicopathological factors in patients with BRCA. Moreover, the tumor immune estimation resource and TISCH databases showed a significant positive correlation between the expression of SCD and the abundance of CD8+ T cells and macrophage cell infiltration, while the expression of FADS2 was positively correlated with the abundance of B cells. Meanwhile, SCD or FADS2 had a higher expression in monocytes/macrophages analyzed the BRCA_GSE143423 and BRCA_GSE114727_inDrop datasets. Mechanistically, the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Distant Genes and CancerSEA databases showed that SCD and FADS2 were upregulated in several cell biology signaling pathways, particularly in inflammation, apoptosis, and DNA repair. Finally, SCD or FADS2 knockdown inhibited the proliferation of MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells. In summary, SCD and FADS2 play significant roles in BRCA development, suggesting that they may serve as potential therapeutic targets for BRCA treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Wang
- Department of Basic Medical Science, Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Department of Basic Medical Science, Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Duanrui Zhou
- Department of Basic Medical Science, Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Yixuan Wang
- Department of Basic Medical Science, Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Huilian Che
- Department of Basic Medical Science, Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Yunjun Ge
- Department of Basic Medical Science, Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Zhangfeng Zhong
- Macao Centre for Research and Development in Chinese Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR, China
| | - Guosheng Wu
- Department of Basic Medical Science, Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
- Jiangnan University Medical Center, Wuxi, China
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4
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Toledo B, Zhu Chen L, Paniagua-Sancho M, Marchal JA, Perán M, Giovannetti E. Deciphering the performance of macrophages in tumour microenvironment: a call for precision immunotherapy. J Hematol Oncol 2024; 17:44. [PMID: 38863020 PMCID: PMC11167803 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-024-01559-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Macrophages infiltrating tumour tissues or residing in the microenvironment of solid tumours are known as tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs). These specialized immune cells play crucial roles in tumour growth, angiogenesis, immune regulation, metastasis, and chemoresistance. TAMs encompass various subpopulations, primarily classified into M1 and M2 subtypes based on their differentiation and activities. M1 macrophages, characterized by a pro-inflammatory phenotype, exert anti-tumoural effects, while M2 macrophages, with an anti-inflammatory phenotype, function as protumoural regulators. These highly versatile cells respond to stimuli from tumour cells and other constituents within the tumour microenvironment (TME), such as growth factors, cytokines, chemokines, and enzymes. These stimuli induce their polarization towards one phenotype or another, leading to complex interactions with TME components and influencing both pro-tumour and anti-tumour processes.This review comprehensively and deeply covers the literature on macrophages, their origin and function as well as the intricate interplay between macrophages and the TME, influencing the dual nature of TAMs in promoting both pro- and anti-tumour processes. Moreover, the review delves into the primary pathways implicated in macrophage polarization, examining the diverse stimuli that regulate this process. These stimuli play a crucial role in shaping the phenotype and functions of macrophages. In addition, the advantages and limitations of current macrophage based clinical interventions are reviewed, including enhancing TAM phagocytosis, inducing TAM exhaustion, inhibiting TAM recruitment, and polarizing TAMs towards an M1-like phenotype. In conclusion, while the treatment strategies targeting macrophages in precision medicine show promise, overcoming several obstacles is still necessary to achieve an accessible and efficient immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belén Toledo
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Jaén, Campus Lagunillas, Jaén, E-23071, Spain
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Cancer Biology and Immunology, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Linrui Zhu Chen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Cancer Biology and Immunology, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - María Paniagua-Sancho
- Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine Institute (IBIMER), Centre for Biomedical Research (CIBM), University of Granada, Granada, E-18100, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria ibs. GRANADA, Hospitales Universitarios de Granada-Universidad de Granada, Granada, E-18071, Spain
- Department of Human Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada, Granada, E-18016, Spain
- Excellence Research Unit "Modeling Nature" (MNat), University of Granada, Granada, E-18016, Spain
| | - Juan Antonio Marchal
- Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine Institute (IBIMER), Centre for Biomedical Research (CIBM), University of Granada, Granada, E-18100, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria ibs. GRANADA, Hospitales Universitarios de Granada-Universidad de Granada, Granada, E-18071, Spain
- Department of Human Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada, Granada, E-18016, Spain
- Excellence Research Unit "Modeling Nature" (MNat), University of Granada, Granada, E-18016, Spain
| | - Macarena Perán
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Jaén, Campus Lagunillas, Jaén, E-23071, Spain.
- Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine Institute (IBIMER), Centre for Biomedical Research (CIBM), University of Granada, Granada, E-18100, Spain.
- Excellence Research Unit "Modeling Nature" (MNat), University of Granada, Granada, E-18016, Spain.
| | - Elisa Giovannetti
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Cancer Biology and Immunology, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
- Cancer Pharmacology Lab, Fondazione Pisana per la Scienza, San Giuliano, Pisa, 56017, Italy.
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5
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Ramos Solis N, Cannon A, Dilday T, Abt M, Oblak AL, Soloff AC, Kaplan MH, Yeh ES. HUNK as a key regulator of tumor-associated macrophages in triple negative breast cancer. Oncoimmunology 2024; 13:2364382. [PMID: 38846083 PMCID: PMC11155704 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2024.2364382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) lacks the expression of estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). TNBC tumors are not sensitive to endocrine therapy, and standardized TNBC treatment regimens are lacking. TNBC is a more immunogenic subtype of breast cancer, making it more responsive to immunotherapy intervention. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) constitute one of the most abundant immune cell populations in TNBC tumors and contribute to cancer metastasis. This study examines the role of the protein kinase HUNK in tumor immunity. Gene expression analysis using NanoString's nCounter PanCancer Immune Profiling panel identified that targeting HUNK is associated with changes in the IL-4/IL-4 R cytokine signaling pathway. Experimental analysis shows that HUNK kinase activity regulates IL-4 production in mammary tumor cells, and this regulation is dependent on STAT3. In addition, HUNK-dependent regulation of IL-4 secreted from tumor cells induces polarization of macrophages into an M2-like phenotype associated with TAMs. In return, IL-4 induces cancer metastasis and macrophages to produce epidermal growth factor. These findings delineate a paracrine signaling exchange between tumor cells and TAMs regulated by HUNK and dependent on IL-4/IL-4 R. This highlights the potential of HUNK as a target for reducing TNBC metastasis through modulation of the TAM population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Ramos Solis
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Indiana University School of Medicine Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indiana University School of Medicine Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Anthony Cannon
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University School of Medicine Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Tinslee Dilday
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Indiana University School of Medicine Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indiana University School of Medicine Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Melissa Abt
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Indiana University School of Medicine Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Adrian L Oblak
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Indiana University School of Medicine Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Adam C Soloff
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Mark H Kaplan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University School of Medicine Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indiana University School of Medicine Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Elizabeth S Yeh
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Indiana University School of Medicine Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indiana University School of Medicine Indianapolis, Indianapolis, IN, USA
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6
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Ye Z, Cheng P, Huang Q, Hu J, Huang L, Hu G. Immunocytes interact directly with cancer cells in the tumor microenvironment: one coin with two sides and future perspectives. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1388176. [PMID: 38840908 PMCID: PMC11150710 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1388176] [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: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment is closely linked to the initiation, promotion, and progression of solid tumors. Among its constitutions, immunologic cells emerge as critical players, facilitating immune evasion and tumor progression. Apart from their indirect impact on anti-tumor immunity, immunocytes directly influence neoplastic cells, either bolstering or impeding tumor advancement. However, current therapeutic modalities aimed at alleviating immunosuppression from regulatory cells on effector immune cell populations may not consistently yield satisfactory results in various solid tumors, such as breast carcinoma, colorectal cancer, etc. Therefore, this review outlines and summarizes the direct, dualistic effects of immunocytes such as T cells, innate lymphoid cells, B cells, eosinophils, and tumor-associated macrophages on tumor cells within the tumor microenvironment. The review also delves into the underlying mechanisms involved and presents the outcomes of clinical trials based on these direct effects, aiming to propose innovative and efficacious therapeutic strategies for addressing solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyi Ye
- Department of General Surgery (Breast and Thyroid Surgery), Shaoxing People’s Hospital; Shaoxing Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang, China
| | - Pu Cheng
- Department of Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qi Huang
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
- Department of Oncology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Jingjing Hu
- School of Medicine, Shaoxing University, Zhejiang, China
| | - Liming Huang
- Department of General Surgery (Breast and Thyroid Surgery), Shaoxing People’s Hospital; Shaoxing Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang, China
| | - Guoming Hu
- Department of General Surgery (Breast and Thyroid Surgery), Shaoxing People’s Hospital, Shaoxing Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Shaoxing, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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7
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Abe Y, Sano T, Otsuka N, Ogawa M, Tanaka N. PRMT5-mediated methylation of STAT3 is required for lung cancer stem cell maintenance and tumour growth. Commun Biol 2024; 7:593. [PMID: 38760429 PMCID: PMC11101626 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-024-06290-7] [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: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024] Open
Abstract
STAT3 is constitutively activated in many cancer types, including lung cancer, and can induce cancer cell proliferation and cancer stem cell (CSC) maintenance. STAT3 is activated by tyrosine kinases, such as JAK and SRC, but the mechanism by which STAT3 maintains its activated state in cancer cells remains unclear. Here, we show that PRMT5 directly methylates STAT3 and enhances its activated tyrosine phosphorylation in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells. PRMT5 expression is also induced by STAT3, suggesting the presence of a positive feedback loop in cancer cells. Furthermore, methylation of STAT3 at arginine 609 by PRMT5 is important for its transcriptional activity and support of tumour growth and CSC maintenance. Indeed, NSCLC cells expressing the STAT3 mutant which R609 was replaced to alanine (R609K) show significantly impaired tumour growth in nude mice. Overall, our study reveals a mechanism by which STAT3 remains activated in NSCLC and provides a new target for cancer therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshinori Abe
- Laboratory of Molecular Analysis, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Advanced Medical Sciences, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takumi Sano
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Advanced Medical Sciences, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Naoki Otsuka
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Advanced Medical Sciences, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masashi Ogawa
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Advanced Medical Sciences, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Nobuyuki Tanaka
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Institute for Advanced Medical Sciences, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan.
- Division of Cell Physiology, Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe University, Kobe, Japan.
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8
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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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9
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Guo Q, Zhou Y, Xie T, Yuan Y, Li H, Shi W, Zheng L, Li X, Zhang W. Tumor microenvironment of cancer stem cells: Perspectives on cancer stem cell targeting. Genes Dis 2024; 11:101043. [PMID: 38292177 PMCID: PMC10825311 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2023.05.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
There are few tumor cell subpopulations with stem cell characteristics in tumor tissue, defined as cancer stem cells (CSCs) or cancer stem-like cells (CSLCs), which can reconstruct neoplasms with malignant biological behaviors such as invasiveness via self-renewal and unlimited generation. The microenvironment that CSCs depend on consists of various cellular components and corresponding medium components. Among these factors existing at a variety of levels and forms, cytokine networks and numerous signal pathways play an important role in signaling transduction. These factors promote or maintain cancer cell stemness, and participate in cancer recurrence, metastasis, and resistance. This review aims to summarize the recent molecular data concerning the multilayered relationship between CSCs and CSC-favorable microenvironments. We also discuss the therapeutic implications of targeting this synergistic interplay, hoping to give an insight into targeting cancer cell stemness for tumor therapy and prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianqian Guo
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan 450003, China
| | - Yi Zhou
- School of Life Science and Technology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211198, China
| | - Tianyuan Xie
- School of Life Science and Technology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211198, China
| | - Yin Yuan
- School of Life Science and Technology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211198, China
| | - Huilong Li
- School of Life Science and Technology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211198, China
| | - Wanjin Shi
- School of Life Science and Technology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211198, China
| | - Lufeng Zheng
- School of Life Science and Technology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211198, China
| | - Xiaoman Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, China
| | - Wenzhou Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan 450003, China
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10
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Xia Y, Sun M, Huang H, Jin WL. Drug repurposing for cancer therapy. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:92. [PMID: 38637540 PMCID: PMC11026526 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01808-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer, a complex and multifactorial disease, presents a significant challenge to global health. Despite significant advances in surgical, radiotherapeutic and immunological approaches, which have improved cancer treatment outcomes, drug therapy continues to serve as a key therapeutic strategy. However, the clinical efficacy of drug therapy is often constrained by drug resistance and severe toxic side effects, and thus there remains a critical need to develop novel cancer therapeutics. One promising strategy that has received widespread attention in recent years is drug repurposing: the identification of new applications for existing, clinically approved drugs. Drug repurposing possesses several inherent advantages in the context of cancer treatment since repurposed drugs are typically cost-effective, proven to be safe, and can significantly expedite the drug development process due to their already established safety profiles. In light of this, the present review offers a comprehensive overview of the various methods employed in drug repurposing, specifically focusing on the repurposing of drugs to treat cancer. We describe the antitumor properties of candidate drugs, and discuss in detail how they target both the hallmarks of cancer in tumor cells and the surrounding tumor microenvironment. In addition, we examine the innovative strategy of integrating drug repurposing with nanotechnology to enhance topical drug delivery. We also emphasize the critical role that repurposed drugs can play when used as part of a combination therapy regimen. To conclude, we outline the challenges associated with repurposing drugs and consider the future prospects of these repurposed drugs transitioning into clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Xia
- Center for Clinical Laboratories, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, PR China
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, 550001, PR China
- School of Clinical Laboratory Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, PR China
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine and, Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
| | - Ming Sun
- Center for Clinical Laboratories, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, PR China
- School of Clinical Laboratory Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, PR China
| | - Hai Huang
- Center for Clinical Laboratories, The Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, PR China.
- School of Clinical Laboratory Science, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550004, PR China.
| | - Wei-Lin Jin
- Institute of Cancer Neuroscience, Medical Frontier Innovation Research Center, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, The First Clinical Medical College of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, PR China.
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11
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Philipp LM, Yesilyurt UU, Surrow A, Künstner A, Mehdorn AS, Hauser C, Gundlach JP, Will O, Hoffmann P, Stahmer L, Franzenburg S, Knaack H, Schumacher U, Busch H, Sebens S. Epithelial and Mesenchymal-like Pancreatic Cancer Cells Exhibit Different Stem Cell Phenotypes Associated with Different Metastatic Propensities. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:686. [PMID: 38398077 PMCID: PMC10886860 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16040686] [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: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is mostly diagnosed at advanced or even metastasized stages, limiting the prognoses of patients. Metastasis requires high tumor cell plasticity, implying phenotypic switching in response to changing environments. Here, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), being associated with an increase in cancer stem cell (CSC) properties, and its reversion are important. Since it is poorly understood whether different CSC phenotypes exist along the EMT axis and how these impact malignancy-associated properties, we aimed to characterize CSC populations of epithelial and mesenchymal-like PDAC cells. Single-cell cloning revealed CSC (Holoclone) and non-CSC (Paraclone) clones from the PDAC cell lines Panc1 and Panc89. The Panc1 Holoclone cells showed a mesenchymal-like phenotype, dominated by a high expression of the stemness marker Nestin, while the Panc89 Holoclone cells exhibited a SOX2-dominated epithelial phenotype. The Panc89 Holoclone cells showed enhanced cell growth and a self-renewal capacity but slow cluster-like invasion. Contrarily, the Panc1 Holoclone cells showed slower cell growth and self-renewal ability but were highly invasive. Moreover, cell variants differentially responded to chemotherapy. In vivo, the Panc1 and Panc89 cell variants significantly differed regarding the number and size of metastases, as well as organ manifestation, leading to different survival outcomes. Overall, these data support the existence of different CSC phenotypes along the EMT axis in PDAC, manifesting different metastatic propensities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa-Marie Philipp
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research, Kiel University, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein (UKSH), Campus Kiel, 23562 Kiel, Germany
| | - Umut-Ulas Yesilyurt
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research, Kiel University, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein (UKSH), Campus Kiel, 23562 Kiel, Germany
| | - Arne Surrow
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research, Kiel University, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein (UKSH), Campus Kiel, 23562 Kiel, Germany
| | - Axel Künstner
- Medical Systems Biology Group, Lübeck Institute of Experimental Dermatology, University of Lübeck, 23538 Lübeck, Germany
- Institute for Cardiogenetics, University of Lübeck, 23562 Lübeck, Germany
| | - Anne-Sophie Mehdorn
- Department of General, Visceral-, Thoracic-, Transplantation- and Pediatric Surgery, UKSH, Campus Kiel, 24105 Kiel, Germany
| | - Charlotte Hauser
- Department of General, Visceral-, Thoracic-, Transplantation- and Pediatric Surgery, UKSH, Campus Kiel, 24105 Kiel, Germany
| | - Jan-Paul Gundlach
- Department of General, Visceral-, Thoracic-, Transplantation- and Pediatric Surgery, UKSH, Campus Kiel, 24105 Kiel, Germany
| | - Olga Will
- Molecular Imaging North Competence Center, Clinic of Radiology and Neuroradiology, Kiel University, UKSH, Campus Kiel, 24118 Kiel, Germany
| | - Patrick Hoffmann
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research, Kiel University, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein (UKSH), Campus Kiel, 23562 Kiel, Germany
| | - Lea Stahmer
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research, Kiel University, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein (UKSH), Campus Kiel, 23562 Kiel, Germany
| | - Sören Franzenburg
- Institute of Clinical Molecular Biology, Kiel University, 24118 Kiel, Germany
| | - Hendrike Knaack
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research, Kiel University, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein (UKSH), Campus Kiel, 23562 Kiel, Germany
- Academic Affairs Office, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Udo Schumacher
- Department of Anatomy and Experimental Morphology, University Cancer Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Hauke Busch
- Medical Systems Biology Group, Lübeck Institute of Experimental Dermatology, University of Lübeck, 23538 Lübeck, Germany
- Institute for Cardiogenetics, University of Lübeck, 23562 Lübeck, Germany
| | - Susanne Sebens
- Institute for Experimental Cancer Research, Kiel University, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein (UKSH), Campus Kiel, 23562 Kiel, Germany
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Alvarez-Arzola R, Oliver L, Messmer MM, Twum DYF, Lee KP, Muhitch JB, Mesa C, Abrams SI. A Bacterial and Ganglioside-based Nanoparticle Initiates Reprogramming of Macrophages and Promotes Antitumor Phenotypes. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2024; 212:475-486. [PMID: 38117752 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2300256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/22/2023]
Abstract
Macrophages represent the most abundant immune component of the tumor microenvironment and often exhibit protumorigenic (M2-like) phenotypes that contribute to disease progression. Despite their generally accepted protumorigenic role, macrophages can also display tumoricidal (or M1-like) behavior, revealing that macrophages can be functionally reprogrammed, depending on the cues received within the tumor microenvironment. Moreover, such plasticity may be achieved by pharmacologic or biologic interventions. To that end, we previously demonstrated that a novel immunomodulator termed the "very small size particle" (VSSP) facilitates maturation of dendritic cells and differentiation of myeloid-derived suppressor cells to APCs with reduced suppressive activity in cancer models. VSSP was further shown to act in the bone marrow to drive the differentiation of progenitors toward monocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells during emergency myelopoiesis. However, the underlying mechanisms for VSSP-driven alterations in myeloid differentiation and function remained unclear. In this study, in mouse models, we focused on macrophages and tested the hypothesis that VSSP drives macrophages toward M1-like functional states via IRF8- and PU.1-dependent mechanisms. We further hypothesized that such VSSP-mediated actions would be accompanied by enhanced antitumor responses. Overall, we showed that (1) VSSP drives naive or M2-derived macrophages to M1-like states, (2) the M1-like state induced by VSSP occurs via IRF8- and PU.1-dependent mechanisms, and (3) single-agent VSSP induces an antitumor response that is accompanied by alterations in the intratumoral myeloid compartment. These results provide a deeper mechanistic underpinning of VSSP and strengthen its use to drive M1-like responses in host defense, including cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rydell Alvarez-Arzola
- Department of Immunoregulation, Immunology and Immunotherapy Direction, Center of Molecular Immunology, Havana, Cuba
| | - Liliana Oliver
- Department of Immunoregulation, Immunology and Immunotherapy Direction, Center of Molecular Immunology, Havana, Cuba
| | | | - Danielle Y F Twum
- Department of Immunology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY
| | - Kelvin P Lee
- IU Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Jason B Muhitch
- Department of Immunology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY
| | - Circe Mesa
- Innovative Immunotherapy Alliance S.A., Mariel, Artemisa, Cuba
| | - Scott I Abrams
- Department of Immunology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY
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13
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Ma J, Chen Z, Li Q, Wang L, Chen J, Yang X, Yang C, Quan Z. RARRES2 is involved in the "lock-and-key" interactions between osteosarcoma stem cells and tumor-associated macrophages. Sci Rep 2024; 14:2267. [PMID: 38280909 PMCID: PMC10821905 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-52738-5] [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: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 01/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Osteosarcoma (OS) is a type of tumor. Osteosarcoma stem cells (OSCs) are responsible for drug resistance, recurrence, and immunosuppression in OS. We aimed to determine the heterogeneity of OSCs and the immunosuppression mechanisms underlying the interactions between OSCs and tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). The cell components, trajectory changes, and cell communication profiles of OS cells were analyzed by transcriptomics at the single-cell level. The intercellular communication patterns of OSCs were verified, and the role of the cell hub genes was revealed. Hub geneS are genes that play important roles in regulating certain biological processes; they are often defined as the genes with the strongest regulatory effect on differentially expressed gene sets. Moreover, various cellular components of the OS microenvironment were identified. Malignant cells were grouped, and OSCs were identified. Further regrouping and communication analysis revealed that the genes in the stemness maintenance and differentiation subgroups were involved in communication with macrophages. Key receptor-ligand pairs and target gene sets for cell communication were obtained. Transcriptome data analysis revealed the key gene RARRES2, which is involved in intercellular communication between OSCs and TAMs. In vitro studies confirmed that macrophages promote RARRES2-mediated stemness maintenance in OSCs via the TAM-secreted cytokine insulin-like growth factor 1. Patient studies confirmed that RARRES2 could be a biomarker of OS. OSCs are highly heterogeneous, and different subgroups are responsible for proliferation and communication with other cells. The IGF-RARRES2 axis plays a key role in maintaining OSC stemness through communication with TAMs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjin Ma
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Zhiyu Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Qiaochu Li
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Linbang Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Jiaxing Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Xinyu Yang
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Chaohua Yang
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Zhengxue Quan
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China.
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Hu Y, Dong Z, Liu K. Unraveling the complexity of STAT3 in cancer: molecular understanding and drug discovery. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2024; 43:23. [PMID: 38245798 PMCID: PMC10799433 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-024-02949-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is a transcriptional factor involved in almost all cancer hallmark features including tumor proliferation, metastasis, angiogenesis, immunosuppression, tumor inflammation, metabolism reprogramming, drug resistance, cancer stemness. Therefore, STAT3 has become a promising therapeutic target in a wide range of cancers. This review focuses on the up-to-date knowledge of STAT3 signaling in cancer. We summarize both the positive and negative modulators of STAT3 together with the cancer hallmarks involving activities regulated by STAT3 and highlight its extremely sophisticated regulation on immunosuppression in tumor microenvironment and metabolic reprogramming. Direct and indirect inhibitors of STAT3 in preclinical and clinical studies also have been summarized and discussed. Additionally, we highlight and propose new strategies of targeting STAT3 and STAT3-based combinations with established chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy and combination therapy. These efforts may provide new perspectives for STAT3-based target therapy in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yamei Hu
- Tianjian Laboratory for Advanced Biomedical Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, Henan, China
- Medical Research Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, Henan, China
| | - Zigang Dong
- Tianjian Laboratory for Advanced Biomedical Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, Henan, China.
- China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, 450008, Henan, China.
- Cancer Chemoprevention International Collaboration Laboratory, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
| | - Kangdong Liu
- Tianjian Laboratory for Advanced Biomedical Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, Henan, China.
- China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, 450008, Henan, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
- Provincial Cooperative Innovation Center for Cancer Chemoprevention, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
- Cancer Chemoprevention International Collaboration Laboratory, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
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15
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Gui Y, Qian X, Ding Y, Chen Q, Fangyu Ye, Ye Y, Hou Y, Yu J, Zhao L. c-Fos regulated by TMPO/ERK axis promotes 5-FU resistance via inducing NANOG transcription in colon cancer. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:61. [PMID: 38233377 PMCID: PMC10794174 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06451-w] [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: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
Acquired drug resistance is one of the most common limitations for the clinical response of colon cancer to 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU)-based chemotherapy. The relevant molecular mechanisms might be diversity, but still not be elucidated clearly. In this study, we aimed to investigate the potential mechanisms of c-Fos, a subfamily of activator protein-1, in 5-FU chemoresistance. We determined that phosphorylated c-Fos promoted colon cancer cells resistance to 5-FU by facilitating the cancer stemness. Mechanically, 5-FU treatment induced autolysosome-dependent degradation of TMPO, which subsequently triggered ERK-mediated phosphorylation of c-Fos. Additionally, c-Fos was found to bind to the promoter of NANOG and phosphorylation of c-Fos at Ser 374 was required for its regulation of NANOG expression. NANOG ablation impaired c-Fos/p-c-Fos induced 5-FU resistance and stemness. Taken together, these findings revealed that TMPO-mediated phosphorylation of c-Fos conferred 5-FU resistance by regulating NANOG expression and promoting cell stemness in colon cancer cells. c-Fos could be as a therapeutic target for colon cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanping Gui
- Public Experimental Platform, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Xiaoping Qian
- Suzhou Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Suzhou, 215153, China
| | - Youxiang Ding
- Department of Pathology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated to Medical College of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Qianqian Chen
- Public Experimental Platform, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Fangyu Ye
- Public Experimental Platform, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Yuting Ye
- Public Experimental Platform, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Yingjian Hou
- Public Experimental Platform, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China
| | - Jun Yu
- Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Li Zhao
- Public Experimental Platform, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, China.
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16
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Zhu M, Yu R, Liu Y, Geng X, Liu Q, Liu S, Zhu Y, Li G, Guo Y, Xi X, Du B. LncRNA H19 Participates in Leukemia Inhibitory Factor Mediated Stemness Promotion in Colorectal Cancer Cells. Biochem Genet 2024:10.1007/s10528-023-10627-y. [PMID: 38198021 DOI: 10.1007/s10528-023-10627-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common human malignancy and the third leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) were considered to play important roles in the genesis and development of many tumors. In recent years, it has been observed that leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) might be involved in the regulation of stemness in cancer cells. In this study, we observed that LIF could increase the spheroid formation and stemness marker expression (inculding Nanog and SOX2) in CRC cell lines, such as HCT116 and Caco2 cells. Meanwhile, we also observed that LIF could upregulate LncRNA H19 expression via PI3K/AKT pathway. Knockdown of the expression of LncRNA H19 could decrease the spheroid formation and SOX2 expression in LIF-treated HCT116 and Caco2 cells, and thereby LncRNA H19 knockdown could compensate for the stemness enhancement effects induced by LIF. Our results indicated that LncRNA H19 might participate in the stemness promotion of LIF in CRC cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Zhu
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Medicine, No.30 Renmin Nanlu, Shiyan, 442000, Hubei, China
- Sinopharm Dongfeng General Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei, China
| | - Ruihong Yu
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Medicine, No.30 Renmin Nanlu, Shiyan, 442000, Hubei, China
| | - Yirui Liu
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Medicine, No.30 Renmin Nanlu, Shiyan, 442000, Hubei, China
| | - Xiaoqing Geng
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Medicine, No.30 Renmin Nanlu, Shiyan, 442000, Hubei, China
| | - Qiong Liu
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Medicine, No.30 Renmin Nanlu, Shiyan, 442000, Hubei, China
| | - Shuaitong Liu
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Medicine, No.30 Renmin Nanlu, Shiyan, 442000, Hubei, China
| | - Yunhe Zhu
- Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei, China
| | - Gang Li
- Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei, China
| | - Yang Guo
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Medicine, No.30 Renmin Nanlu, Shiyan, 442000, Hubei, China
| | - Xueyan Xi
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Medicine, No.30 Renmin Nanlu, Shiyan, 442000, Hubei, China.
- Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei, China.
| | - Boyu Du
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Medicine, No.30 Renmin Nanlu, Shiyan, 442000, Hubei, China.
- Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei, China.
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Wudang Local Chinese Medicine Research, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei, China.
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17
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Borlongan MC, Saha D, Wang H. Tumor Microenvironment: A Niche for Cancer Stem Cell Immunotherapy. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2024; 20:3-24. [PMID: 37861969 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-023-10639-6] [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] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Tumorigenic Cancer Stem Cells (CSCs), often called tumor-initiating cells (TICs), represent a unique subset of cells within the tumor milieu. They stand apart from the bulk of tumor cells due to their exceptional self-renewal, metastatic, and differentiation capabilities. Despite significant progress in classifying CSCs, these cells remain notably resilient to conventional radiotherapy and chemotherapy, contributing to cancer recurrence. In this review, our objective is to explore novel avenues of research that delve into the distinctive characteristics of CSCs within their surrounding tumor microenvironment (TME). We will start with an overview of the defining features of CSCs and then delve into their intricate interactions with cells from the lymphoid lineage, namely T cells, B cells, and natural killer (NK) cells. Furthermore, we will discuss their dynamic interplay with myeloid lineage cells, including macrophages, neutrophils, and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs). Moreover, we will illuminate the crosstalk between CSCs and cells of mesenchymal origin, specifically fibroblasts, adipocytes, and endothelial cells. Subsequently, we will underscore the pivotal role of CSCs within the context of the tumor-associated extracellular matrix (ECM). Finally, we will highlight pre-clinical and clinical studies that target CSCs within the intricate landscape of the TME, including CAR-T therapy, oncolytic viruses, and CSC-vaccines, with the ultimate goal of uncovering novel avenues for CSC-based cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mia C Borlongan
- College of Medicine, California Northstate University, 9700 West Taron Drive, Elk Grove, CA, 95757, USA
| | - Dipongkor Saha
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences College of Pharmacy, California Northstate University, 9700 West Taron Drive, Elk Grove, CA, 95757, USA.
| | - Hongbin Wang
- College of Medicine, California Northstate University, 9700 West Taron Drive, Elk Grove, CA, 95757, USA.
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences College of Pharmacy, California Northstate University, 9700 West Taron Drive, Elk Grove, CA, 95757, USA.
- Master Program of Pharmaceutical Sciences College of Graduate Studies, Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences College of Pharmacy, Department of Basic Science College of Medicine, California Northstate University, 9700 West Taron Drive, Elk Grove, CA, 95757, USA.
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18
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Guo Z, Han S. Targeting cancer stem cell plasticity in triple-negative breast cancer. EXPLORATION OF TARGETED ANTI-TUMOR THERAPY 2023; 4:1165-1181. [PMID: 38213533 PMCID: PMC10776602 DOI: 10.37349/etat.2023.00190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a highly aggressive breast cancer subtype with limited treatment options. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are thought to play a crucial role in TNBC progression and resistance to therapy. CSCs are a small subpopulation of cells within tumors that possess self-renewal and differentiation capabilities and are responsible for tumor initiation, maintenance, and metastasis. CSCs exhibit plasticity, allowing them to switch between states and adapt to changing microenvironments. Targeting CSC plasticity has emerged as a promising strategy for TNBC treatment. This review summarizes recent advances in understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying CSC plasticity in TNBC and discusses potential therapeutic approaches targeting CSC plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengwang Guo
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Integration of Chinese and Western Medicine, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Shuyan Han
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Integration of Chinese and Western Medicine, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing 100142, China
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19
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Liu Q, Guo Z, Li G, Zhang Y, Liu X, Li B, Wang J, Li X. Cancer stem cells and their niche in cancer progression and therapy. Cancer Cell Int 2023; 23:305. [PMID: 38041196 PMCID: PMC10693166 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-023-03130-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023] Open
Abstract
High recurrence and metastasis rates and poor prognoses are the major challenges of current cancer therapy. Mounting evidence suggests that cancer stem cells (CSCs) play an important role in cancer development, chemoradiotherapy resistance, recurrence, and metastasis. Therefore, targeted CSC therapy has become a new strategy for solving the problems of cancer metastasis and recurrence. Since the properties of CSCs are regulated by the specific tumour microenvironment, the so-called CSC niche, which targets crosstalk between CSCs and their niches, is vital in our pursuit of new therapeutic opportunities to prevent cancer from recurring. In this review, we aim to highlight the factors within the CSC niche that have important roles in regulating CSC properties, including the extracellular matrix (ECM), stromal cells (e.g., associated macrophages (TAMs), cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs)), and physiological changes (e.g., inflammation, hypoxia, and angiogenesis). We also discuss recent progress regarding therapies targeting CSCs and their niche to elucidate developments of more effective therapeutic strategies to eliminate cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuping Liu
- Institute of Translational Medicine, College of Life Science and Agronomy, Zhoukou Normal University, Zhoukou, 466001, Henan, China
| | - Zongliang Guo
- Department of General Surgery, Shanxi Province Cancer Hospital, Affiliated of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030013, Shanxi, China
| | - Guoyin Li
- Institute of Translational Medicine, College of Life Science and Agronomy, Zhoukou Normal University, Zhoukou, 466001, Henan, China
| | - Yunxia Zhang
- Institute of Translational Medicine, College of Life Science and Agronomy, Zhoukou Normal University, Zhoukou, 466001, Henan, China
| | - Xiaomeng Liu
- Institute of Translational Medicine, College of Life Science and Agronomy, Zhoukou Normal University, Zhoukou, 466001, Henan, China
| | - Bing Li
- Institute of Translational Medicine, College of Life Science and Agronomy, Zhoukou Normal University, Zhoukou, 466001, Henan, China
| | - Jinping Wang
- Department of Ultrasound, Shanxi Province People's Hospital, Taiyuan, 030012, Shanxi, China.
| | - Xiaoyan Li
- Department of blood transfusion, Shanxi Provincial People's Hospital, Taiyuan, 030032, Shanxi, China.
- Department of central laboratory, Shanxi Provincial People's Hospital, Taiyuan, 030032, Shanxi, China.
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20
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Hekmatirad S, Moloudizargari M, Fallah M, Rahimi A, Poortahmasebi V, Asghari MH. Cancer-associated immune cells and their modulation by melatonin. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol 2023; 45:788-801. [PMID: 37489565 DOI: 10.1080/08923973.2023.2239489] [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: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Rapidly growing evidence suggests that immune cells play a key role in determining tumor progression. Tumor cells are surrounded by a microenvironment composed of different cell populations including immune cells. The cross talk between tumor cells and the neighboring microenvironment is an important factor to take into account while designing tumor therapies. Despite significant advances in immunotherapy strategies, a relatively small proportion of patients have successfully responded to them. Therefore, the search for safe and efficient drugs, which could be used alongside conventional therapies to boost the immune system against tumors, is an ongoing need. In the present work, the modulatory effects of melatonin on different components of tumor immune microenvironment are reviewed. METHODS A thorough literature review was performed in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. All published papers in English on tumor immune microenvironment and the relevant modulatory effects of melatonin were scrutinized. RESULTS Melatonin modulates macrophage polarization and prevents M2 induction. Moreover, it prevents the conversion of fibroblasts into cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and prevents cancer cell stemness. In addition, it can affect the payload composition of tumor-derived exosomes (TEXs) and their secretion levels to favor a more effective anti-tumor immune response. Melatonin is a safe molecule that affects almost all components of the tumor immune microenvironment and prevents them from being negatively affected by the tumor. CONCLUSION Based on the effects of melatonin on normal cells, tumor cells and microenvironment components, it could be an efficient compound to be used in combination with conventional immune-targeted therapies to increase their efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shirin Hekmatirad
- Department of Toxicology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Marjan Fallah
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medicinal Plant Research Centre, Islamic Azad University, Amol, Iran
| | - Atena Rahimi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Vahdat Poortahmasebi
- Department of Bacteriology and Virology, School of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Asghari
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
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Wang Y, Ni Q. Prognostic and clinicopathological significance of Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index in cancer patients receiving immune checkpoint inhibitors: a meta-analysis. Ann Med 2023; 55:808-819. [PMID: 36892953 PMCID: PMC10795596 DOI: 10.1080/07853890.2023.2181983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Among malignant neoplasm patients taking immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), it remains unknown how the systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) affects their clinical prognosis. We therefore performed the present meta-analysis by collecting the most recent data, so that SII's prognostic value among ICI-receiving carcinoma patients could be fully clarified. METHODS For the prognostic significance evaluation of SII in ICI-receiving carcinoma patients, the combined hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated. RESULTS The number of studies enrolled in the present meta-analysis totaled 17, where 1,990 patients were involved. Among the ICI-treated carcinoma patients, a high SII was linked significantly to inferior overall survival (OS) (HR = 2.62, 95% CI = 1.76-3.90), as well as progression-free survival (PFS) (HR = 2.09, 95% CI = 1.48-2.95) (p both <.001). Contrastively, SII was linked insignificantly to the age (OR = 1.08, 95% CI = 0.39-2.98, p = .881), gender (OR = 1.01, 95% CI = 0.59-1.73, p = .959), lymph node (LN) metastasis (OR = 1.41, 95% CI = 0.92-2.17, p = .117), or metastatic site quantity (OR = 1.49, 95% CI = 0.90-2.46, p = .119). CONCLUSION There are prominent associations of elevated SII with the poor survival outcomes (both short- and long-terms) among the ICIreceiving carcinoma patients. SII has potential as a reliable and cheap prognostic biomarker in the clinic for carcinoma patients receiving ICIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Wang
- Clinical Laboratory, Huzhou Central Hospital, Affiliated Central Hospital of Huzhou University, Huzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qunqin Ni
- Clinical Laboratory, Traditional Chinese Medical Hospital of Huzhou Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Huzhou, Zhejiang, China
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22
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Domínguez-Cejudo MA, Gil-Torralvo A, Cejuela M, Molina-Pinelo S, Salvador Bofill J. Targeting the Tumor Microenvironment in Breast Cancer: Prognostic and Predictive Significance and Therapeutic Opportunities. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16771. [PMID: 38069096 PMCID: PMC10706312 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242316771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent tumors among women. Its prognosis and treatment outcomes depend on factors related to tumor cell biology. However, recent studies have revealed the critical role of the tumor microenvironment (TME) in the development, progression, and treatment response of breast cancer. In this review, we explore the different components of the TME and their relevance as prognostic and predictive biomarkers in breast cancer. In addition, techniques for assessing the tumor microenvironment, such as immunohistochemistry or gene expression profiling, and their clinical utility in therapeutic decision-making are examined. Finally, therapeutic strategies targeting the TME are reviewed, highlighting their potential clinical benefits. Overall, this review emphasizes the importance of the TME in breast cancer and its potential as a clinical tool for better patient stratification and the design of personalized therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- María A. Domínguez-Cejudo
- Institute of Biomedicine of Seville (IBiS), HUVR, CSIC, Universidad de Sevilla, 41013 Seville, Spain (S.M.-P.)
- Andalusian—Roche Network Mixed Alliance in Precision Medical Oncology, 41092 Sevilla, Spain
| | - Ana Gil-Torralvo
- Institute of Biomedicine of Seville (IBiS), HUVR, CSIC, Universidad de Sevilla, 41013 Seville, Spain (S.M.-P.)
- Andalusian—Roche Network Mixed Alliance in Precision Medical Oncology, 41092 Sevilla, Spain
- Medical Oncology Department, Virgen del Rocio Hospital, 41013 Seville, Spain
| | - Mónica Cejuela
- Medical Oncology Department, Virgen del Rocio Hospital, 41013 Seville, Spain
| | - Sonia Molina-Pinelo
- Institute of Biomedicine of Seville (IBiS), HUVR, CSIC, Universidad de Sevilla, 41013 Seville, Spain (S.M.-P.)
- Andalusian—Roche Network Mixed Alliance in Precision Medical Oncology, 41092 Sevilla, Spain
| | - Javier Salvador Bofill
- Institute of Biomedicine of Seville (IBiS), HUVR, CSIC, Universidad de Sevilla, 41013 Seville, Spain (S.M.-P.)
- Andalusian—Roche Network Mixed Alliance in Precision Medical Oncology, 41092 Sevilla, Spain
- Medical Oncology Department, Virgen del Rocio Hospital, 41013 Seville, Spain
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23
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Basak U, Sarkar T, Mukherjee S, Chakraborty S, Dutta A, Dutta S, Nayak D, Kaushik S, Das T, Sa G. Tumor-associated macrophages: an effective player of the tumor microenvironment. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1295257. [PMID: 38035101 PMCID: PMC10687432 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1295257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer progression is primarily caused by interactions between transformed cells and the components of the tumor microenvironment (TME). TAMs (tumor-associated macrophages) make up the majority of the invading immune components, which are further categorized as anti-tumor M1 and pro-tumor M2 subtypes. While M1 is known to have anti-cancer properties, M2 is recognized to extend a protective role to the tumor. As a result, the tumor manipulates the TME in such a way that it induces macrophage infiltration and M1 to M2 switching bias to secure its survival. This M2-TAM bias in the TME promotes cancer cell proliferation, neoangiogenesis, lymphangiogenesis, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, matrix remodeling for metastatic support, and TME manipulation to an immunosuppressive state. TAMs additionally promote the emergence of cancer stem cells (CSCs), which are known for their ability to originate, metastasize, and relapse into tumors. CSCs also help M2-TAM by revealing immune escape and survival strategies during the initiation and relapse phases. This review describes the reasons for immunotherapy failure and, thereby, devises better strategies to impair the tumor-TAM crosstalk. This study will shed light on the understudied TAM-mediated tumor progression and address the much-needed holistic approach to anti-cancer therapy, which encompasses targeting cancer cells, CSCs, and TAMs all at the same time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Udit Basak
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Bose Institute, Kolkata, India
| | - Tania Sarkar
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Bose Institute, Kolkata, India
| | - Sumon Mukherjee
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Bose Institute, Kolkata, India
| | | | - Apratim Dutta
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Bose Institute, Kolkata, India
| | - Saikat Dutta
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Bose Institute, Kolkata, India
| | - Debadatta Nayak
- Central Council for Research in Homeopathy (CCRH), New Delhi, India
| | - Subhash Kaushik
- Central Council for Research in Homeopathy (CCRH), New Delhi, India
| | - Tanya Das
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Bose Institute, Kolkata, India
| | - Gaurisankar Sa
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Bose Institute, Kolkata, India
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Liew YX, Karen-Ng LP, Vincent-Chong VK. A Comprehensive Review of Natural Products as Therapeutic or Chemopreventive Agents against Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cells Using Preclinical Models. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2359. [PMID: 37760799 PMCID: PMC10525836 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11092359] [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: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a type of cancer that arises from the epithelium lining of the oral cavity, hypopharynx, oropharynx, and larynx. Despite the advancement of current treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, the overall survival rate of patients afflicted with HNSCC remains poor. The reasons for these poor outcomes are due to late diagnoses and patient-acquired resistance to treatment. Natural products have been extensively explored as a safer and more acceptable alternative therapy to the current treatments, with numerous studies displaying their potential against HNSCC. This review highlights preclinical studies in the past 5 years involving natural products against HNSCC and explores the signaling pathways altered by these products. This review also addresses challenges and future directions of natural products as chemotherapeutic and chemoprevention agents against HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoon Xuan Liew
- Oral Cancer Research & Coordinating Centre (OCRCC), Faculty of Dentistry, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia;
| | - Lee Peng Karen-Ng
- Oral Cancer Research & Coordinating Centre (OCRCC), Faculty of Dentistry, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia;
| | - Vui King Vincent-Chong
- Department of Oral Oncology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY 14263, USA
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25
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Jiang S, Deng T, Cheng H, Liu W, Shi D, Yuan J, He Z, Wang W, Chen B, Ma L, Zhang X, Gong P. Macrophage-organoid co-culture model for identifying treatment strategies against macrophage-related gemcitabine resistance. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2023; 42:199. [PMID: 37553567 PMCID: PMC10411021 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-023-02756-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gemcitabine resistance (GR) is a significant clinical challenge in pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD) treatment. Macrophages in the tumor immune-microenvironment are closely related to GR. Uncovering the macrophage-induced GR mechanism could help devise a novel strategy to improve gemcitabine treatment outcomes in PAAD. Therefore, preclinical models accurately replicating patient tumor properties are essential for cancer research and drug development. Patient-derived organoids (PDOs) represent a promising in vitro model for investigating tumor targets, accelerating drug development, and enabling personalized treatment strategies to improve patient outcomes. METHODS To investigate the effects of macrophage stimulation on GR, co-cultures were set up using PDOs from three PAAD patients with macrophages. To identify signaling factors between macrophages and pancreatic cancer cells (PCCs), a 97-target cytokine array and the TCGA-GTEx database were utilized. The analysis revealed CCL5 and AREG as potential candidates. The role of CCL5 in inducing GR was further investigated using clinical data and tumor sections obtained from 48 PAAD patients over three years, inhibitors, and short hairpin RNA (shRNA). Furthermore, single-cell sequencing data from the GEO database were analyzed to explore the crosstalk between PCCs and macrophages. To overcome GR, inhibitors targeting the macrophage-CCL5-Sp1-AREG feedback loop were evaluated in cell lines, PDOs, and orthotopic mouse models of pancreatic carcinoma. RESULTS The macrophage-CCL5-Sp1-AREG feedback loop between macrophages and PCCs is responsible for GR. Macrophage-derived CCL5 activates the CCR5/AKT/Sp1/CD44 axis to confer stemness and chemoresistance to PCCs. PCC-derived AREG promotes CCL5 secretion in macrophages through the Hippo-YAP pathway. By targeting the feedback loop, mithramycin improves the outcome of gemcitabine treatment in PAAD. The results from the PDO model were corroborated with cell lines, mouse models, and clinical data. CONCLUSIONS Our study highlights that the PDO model is a superior choice for preclinical research and precision medicine. The macrophage-CCL5-Sp1-AREG feedback loop confers stemness to PCCs to facilitate gemcitabine resistance by activating the CCR5/AKT/SP1/CD44 pathway. The combination of gemcitabine and mithramycin shows potential as a therapeutic strategy for treating PAAD in cell lines, PDOs, and mouse models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengwei Jiang
- Department of General Surgery & Institute of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Digestive System Tumors, Carson International Cancer Center, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory for Biomedical Measurements and Ultrasound Imaging, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University Medical School, Xueyuan Road 1066, Shenzhen, 518060, China
| | - Tingwei Deng
- Department of General Surgery & Institute of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Digestive System Tumors, Carson International Cancer Center, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, China
| | - Huan Cheng
- Department of Epidemiology, Dalian Medical University, Lvshun Road 9, Dalian, 116044, China
| | - Weihan Liu
- Department of Epidemiology, Dalian Medical University, Lvshun Road 9, Dalian, 116044, China
| | - Dan Shi
- Department of General Surgery & Institute of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Digestive System Tumors, Carson International Cancer Center, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory for Biomedical Measurements and Ultrasound Imaging, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University Medical School, Xueyuan Road 1066, Shenzhen, 518060, China
| | - Jiahui Yuan
- Department of General Surgery & Institute of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Digestive System Tumors, Carson International Cancer Center, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory for Biomedical Measurements and Ultrasound Imaging, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University Medical School, Xueyuan Road 1066, Shenzhen, 518060, China
| | - Zhiwei He
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory for Biomedical Measurements and Ultrasound Imaging, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University Medical School, Xueyuan Road 1066, Shenzhen, 518060, China
| | - Weiwei Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Weiwu Road 7, Zhengzhou, 450003, China
| | - Boning Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Weiwu Road 7, Zhengzhou, 450003, China
| | - Li Ma
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, China.
- Department of Epidemiology, Dalian Medical University, Lvshun Road 9, Dalian, 116044, China.
| | - Xianbin Zhang
- Department of General Surgery & Institute of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Digestive System Tumors, Carson International Cancer Center, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, China.
| | - Peng Gong
- Department of General Surgery & Institute of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Digestive System Tumors, Carson International Cancer Center, Shenzhen University General Hospital, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, China.
- Carson International Cancer Center & Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Regional Immunity and Diseases, Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Xueyuan Road 1066, Shenzhen, 518060, China.
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Safaei S, Sajed R, Shariftabrizi A, Dorafshan S, Saeednejad Zanjani L, Dehghan Manshadi M, Madjd Z, Ghods R. Tumor matrix stiffness provides fertile soil for cancer stem cells. Cancer Cell Int 2023; 23:143. [PMID: 37468874 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-023-02992-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Matrix stiffness is a mechanical characteristic of the extracellular matrix (ECM) that increases from the tumor core to the tumor periphery in a gradient pattern in a variety of solid tumors and can promote proliferation, invasion, metastasis, drug resistance, and recurrence. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a rare subpopulation of tumor cells with self-renewal, asymmetric cell division, and differentiation capabilities. CSCs are thought to be responsible for metastasis, tumor recurrence, chemotherapy resistance, and consequently poor clinical outcomes. Evidence suggests that matrix stiffness can activate receptors and mechanosensor/mechanoregulator proteins such as integrin, FAK, and YAP, modulating the characteristics of tumor cells as well as CSCs through different molecular signaling pathways. A deeper understanding of the effect of matrix stiffness on CSCs characteristics could lead to development of innovative cancer therapies. In this review, we discuss how the stiffness of the ECM is sensed by the cells and how the cells respond to this environmental change as well as the effect of matrix stiffness on CSCs characteristics and also the key malignant processes such as proliferation and EMT. Then, we specifically focus on how increased matrix stiffness affects CSCs in breast, lung, liver, pancreatic, and colorectal cancers. We also discuss how the molecules responsible for increased matrix stiffness and the signaling pathways activated by the enhanced stiffness can be manipulated as a therapeutic strategy for cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadegh Safaei
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Hemmat Street (Highway), Next to Milad Tower, Tehran, 14496-14530, Iran
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Hemmat Street (Highway), Next to Milad Tower, Tehran, 14496-14530, Iran
| | - Roya Sajed
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Hemmat Street (Highway), Next to Milad Tower, Tehran, 14496-14530, Iran
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Hemmat Street (Highway), Next to Milad Tower, Tehran, 14496-14530, Iran
| | - Ahmad Shariftabrizi
- Division of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Radiology, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Division of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Radiology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Shima Dorafshan
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Hemmat Street (Highway), Next to Milad Tower, Tehran, 14496-14530, Iran
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Hemmat Street (Highway), Next to Milad Tower, Tehran, 14496-14530, Iran
| | - Leili Saeednejad Zanjani
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Hemmat Street (Highway), Next to Milad Tower, Tehran, 14496-14530, Iran
- Department of Pathology and Genomic Medicine, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Masoumeh Dehghan Manshadi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Hemmat Street (Highway), Next to Milad Tower, Tehran, 14496-14530, Iran
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Hemmat Street (Highway), Next to Milad Tower, Tehran, 14496-14530, Iran
| | - Zahra Madjd
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Hemmat Street (Highway), Next to Milad Tower, Tehran, 14496-14530, Iran.
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Hemmat Street (Highway), Next to Milad Tower, Tehran, 14496-14530, Iran.
| | - Roya Ghods
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Hemmat Street (Highway), Next to Milad Tower, Tehran, 14496-14530, Iran.
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Hemmat Street (Highway), Next to Milad Tower, Tehran, 14496-14530, Iran.
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Akpınar CK, Kocaturk O, Aykac O, Acar BA, Dogan H, Onalan A, Acar T, Uysal Kocabas Z, Topaktas B, Gurkas E, Ozdemir AO. Can C-reactive protein/albumin ratio be a prognostic factor in acute stroke patients undergoing mechanical thrombectomy? Clin Neurol Neurosurg 2023; 231:107856. [PMID: 37413825 DOI: 10.1016/j.clineuro.2023.107856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION C-reactive protein (CRP) and albumin are markers synthesized by the liver and may reflect inflammatory responses. CRP/Albumin ratio (CAR) serves better to reflect the inflammatory state and therefore the prognosis. Worse prognosis is reported in previous studies when CAR rate on admission is high in patients with stroke, aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage, malignancy or patients followed in intensive care units. We aimed to investigate the relation of CAR with prognosis in mechanical thrombectomy performed acute stroke patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS Stroke patients admitted to five different stroke centers between January 2021 and August 2022 undergoing mechanical thrombectomy were included and retrospectively analyzed. The CAR ratio was calculated as the ratio of CRP to albumin level in the venous blood samples. Primary outcome was the relation between CAR and functional outcome at 90 days determined by modified Rankin Scale (mRS). RESULTS This study included 558 patients with a mean age of 66,5 ± 12.5 years (age range:18-89 years) best cutoff value of the CAR was 3.36, with 74.2 % sensitivity and 60.7 % specificity (Area under the curve: 0.774; 95 %CI: 0.693-0.794). There was no significant correlation between CAR rate and age, CAR rate and NIHSS on admission, and also between CAR rate and symptom recanalization (p > 0.05). CAR ratio in the mRS 3-6 group was statistically significantly higher (p < 0.001). In the multivariate analyses, CAR showed an association with 90-day mortality (odds ratio, 1.049; 95 % CI, 1.032-1.066) CONCLUSION: In acute ischemic stroke patients treated with mechanical thrombectomy, CAR may be one of the factors affecting poor clinical outcome and/or mortality in patients undergoing mechanical thrombectomy. Upcoming similar studies in this patient group may better clarify the prognostic role of CAR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cetin Kursad Akpınar
- Samsun University, Samsun Training and Research Hospital, Department of Neurology, Interventional Neurology, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Ozcan Kocaturk
- Balıkesir Atatürk City Hospital, Department of Neurology, Interventional Neurology, Balıkesir, Turkey
| | - Ozlem Aykac
- Eskisehir Osmangazi University, Medical Faculty, Department of Neurology, Neurocritical Care, Interventional Neurology, Eskisehir, Turkey
| | | | - Hasan Dogan
- Samsun University, Samsun Training and Research Hospital, Department of Neurology, Interventional Neurology, Samsun, Turkey.
| | - Aysenur Onalan
- Health Sciences University, Dr. Lutfi Kirdar City Hospital, Department of Neurology, Interventional Neurology, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Turkan Acar
- Sakarya University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Neurology, Sakarya, Turkey
| | - Zehra Uysal Kocabas
- Eskisehir Osmangazi University, Medical Faculty, Department of Neurology, Neurocritical Care, Interventional Neurology, Eskisehir, Turkey
| | | | - Erdem Gurkas
- Health Sciences University, Dr. Lutfi Kirdar City Hospital, Department of Neurology, Interventional Neurology, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Atilla Ozcan Ozdemir
- Eskisehir Osmangazi University, Medical Faculty, Department of Neurology, Neurocritical Care, Interventional Neurology, Eskisehir, Turkey
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Zhang J, Song J, Tang S, Zhao Y, Wang L, Luo Y, Tang J, Ji Y, Wang X, Li T, Zhang H, Shao W, Sheng J, Liang T, Bai X. Multi-omics analysis reveals the chemoresistance mechanism of proliferating tissue-resident macrophages in PDAC via metabolic adaptation. Cell Rep 2023; 42:112620. [PMID: 37285267 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly lethal cancer that typically demonstrates resistance to chemotherapy. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are essential in tumor microenvironment (TME) regulation, including promoting chemoresistance. However, the specific TAM subset and mechanisms behind this promotion remain unclear. We employ multi-omics strategies, including single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), transcriptomics, multicolor immunohistochemistry (mIHC), flow cytometry, and metabolomics, to analyze chemotherapy-treated samples from both humans and mice. We identify four major TAM subsets within PDAC, among which proliferating resident macrophages (proliferating rMφs) are strongly associated with poor clinical outcomes. These macrophages are able to survive chemotherapy by producing more deoxycytidine (dC) and fewer dC kinases (dCKs) to decrease the absorption of gemcitabine. Moreover, proliferating rMφs promote fibrosis and immunosuppression in PDAC. Eliminating them in the transgenic mouse model alleviates fibrosis and immunosuppression, thereby re-sensitizing PDAC to chemotherapy. Consequently, targeting proliferating rMφs may become a potential treatment strategy for PDAC to enhance chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junlei Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310002, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310002, China; Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310002, China
| | - Jinyuan Song
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310002, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310002, China; Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310002, China
| | - Shima Tang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310002, China
| | - Yaxing Zhao
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310002, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310002, China; Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310002, China
| | - Lin Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310002, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310002, China; Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310002, China
| | - Yandong Luo
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310002, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310002, China; Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310002, China
| | - Jianghui Tang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310002, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310002, China; Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310002, China
| | - Yongtao Ji
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310002, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310002, China; Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310002, China
| | - Xun Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310002, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310002, China; Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310002, China
| | - Taohong Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310002, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310002, China; Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310002, China
| | - Hui Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310002, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310002, China; Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310002, China
| | - Wei Shao
- College of Computer Science and Technology, Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Nanjing 210000, China.
| | - Jianpeng Sheng
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310002, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310002, China; Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310002, China.
| | - Tingbo Liang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310002, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310002, China; Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310002, China.
| | - Xueli Bai
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310002, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310002, China; Zhejiang University Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310002, China.
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Eid RA, Alaa Edeen M, Shedid EM, Kamal ASS, Warda MM, Mamdouh F, Khedr SA, Soltan MA, Jeon HW, Zaki MSA, Kim B. Targeting Cancer Stem Cells as the Key Driver of Carcinogenesis and Therapeutic Resistance. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021786. [PMID: 36675306 PMCID: PMC9861138 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The emerging concept of cancer stem cells (CSCs) as the key driver behind carcinogenesis, progression, and diversity has displaced the prior model of a tumor composed of cells with similar subsequently acquired mutations and an equivalent capacity for renewal, invasion, and metastasis. This significant change has shifted the research focus toward targeting CSCs to eradicate cancer. CSCs may be characterized using cell surface markers. They are defined by their capacity to self-renew and differentiate, resist conventional therapies, and generate new tumors following repeated transplantation in xenografted mice. CSCs' functional capabilities are governed by various intracellular and extracellular variables such as pluripotency-related transcription factors, internal signaling pathways, and external stimuli. Numerous natural compounds and synthetic chemicals have been investigated for their ability to disrupt these regulatory components and inhibit stemness and terminal differentiation in CSCs, hence achieving clinical implications. However, no cancer treatment focuses on the biological consequences of these drugs on CSCs, and their functions have been established. This article provides a biomedical discussion of cancer at the time along with an overview of CSCs and their origin, features, characterization, isolation techniques, signaling pathways, and novel targeted therapeutic approaches. Additionally, we highlighted the factors endorsed as controlling or helping to promote stemness in CSCs. Our objective was to encourage future studies on these prospective treatments to develop a framework for their application as single or combined therapeutics to eradicate various forms of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Refaat A. Eid
- Pathology Department, College of Medicine, King Khalid University, Abha P.O. Box 62529, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad Alaa Edeen
- Cell Biology, Histology & Genetics Division, Biology Department, Faculty of Science, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt
- Correspondence: (M.A.E.); (B.K.)
| | - Eslam M. Shedid
- Biotechnology Division, Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Benha University, Al Qalyubia Governorate, Banha 13511, Egypt
| | - Al Shaimaa S. Kamal
- Biotechnology Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Benha University, Al Qalyubia Governorate, Banha 13511, Egypt
| | - Mona M. Warda
- Biotechnology Division, Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Benha University, Al Qalyubia Governorate, Banha 13511, Egypt
| | - Farag Mamdouh
- Biotechnology Division, Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Benha University, Al Qalyubia Governorate, Banha 13511, Egypt
| | - Sohila A. Khedr
- Industrial Biotechnology Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta 31733, Egypt
| | - Mohamed A. Soltan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Sinai University, Ismailia 41611, Egypt
| | - Hee Won Jeon
- Department of Pathology, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Mohamed Samir A. Zaki
- Anatomy Department, College of Medicine, King Khalid University, Abha P.O. Box 62529, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Histology and Cell Biology, College of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 31527, Egypt
| | - Bonglee Kim
- Department of Pathology, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence: (M.A.E.); (B.K.)
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30
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Zhu M, Li S, Cao X, Rashid K, Liu T. The STAT family: Key transcription factors mediating crosstalk between cancer stem cells and tumor immune microenvironment. Semin Cancer Biol 2023; 88:18-31. [PMID: 36410636 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2022.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) proteins compose a family of transcription factors critical for cancer stem cells (CSCs), and they are involved in maintaining stemness properties, enhancing cell proliferation, and promoting metastasis. Recent studies suggest that STAT proteins engage in reciprocal communication between CSCs and infiltrate immune cell populations in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Emerging evidence has substantiated the influence of immune cells, including macrophages, myeloid-derived suppressor cells, and T cells, on CSC survival through the regulation of STAT signaling. Conversely, dysregulation of STATs in CSCs or immune cells contributes to the establishment of an immunosuppressive TME. Thus, STAT proteins are promising therapeutic targets for cancer treatment, especially when used in combination with immunotherapy. From this perspective, we discuss the complex roles of STATs in CSCs and highlight their functions in the crosstalk between CSCs and the immune microenvironment. Finally, cutting-edge clinical trial progress with STAT signaling inhibitors is summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengxuan Zhu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Center of Evidence-based Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Suyao Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Center of Evidence-based Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Cao
- Institute of Clinical Science, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Khalid Rashid
- Department of Cancer Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, OH, USA.
| | - Tianshu Liu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Center of Evidence-based Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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31
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Tumor immunology. Clin Immunol 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-818006-8.00003-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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32
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Hu Q, Bian Q, Rong D, Wang L, Song J, Huang HS, Zeng J, Mei J, Wang PY. JAK/STAT pathway: Extracellular signals, diseases, immunity, and therapeutic regimens. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1110765. [PMID: 36911202 PMCID: PMC9995824 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1110765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Janus kinase/signal transduction and transcription activation (JAK/STAT) pathways were originally thought to be intracellular signaling pathways that mediate cytokine signals in mammals. Existing studies show that the JAK/STAT pathway regulates the downstream signaling of numerous membrane proteins such as such as G-protein-associated receptors, integrins and so on. Mounting evidence shows that the JAK/STAT pathways play an important role in human disease pathology and pharmacological mechanism. The JAK/STAT pathways are related to aspects of all aspects of the immune system function, such as fighting infection, maintaining immune tolerance, strengthening barrier function, and cancer prevention, which are all important factors involved in immune response. In addition, the JAK/STAT pathways play an important role in extracellular mechanistic signaling and might be an important mediator of mechanistic signals that influence disease progression, immune environment. Therefore, it is important to understand the mechanism of the JAK/STAT pathways, which provides ideas for us to design more drugs targeting diseases based on the JAK/STAT pathway. In this review, we discuss the role of the JAK/STAT pathway in mechanistic signaling, disease progression, immune environment, and therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Hu
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.,Oujiang Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Alzheimer's Disease of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Aging, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.,Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Hunan Key Laboratory of Pharmacogenetics, Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Qihui Bian
- Oujiang Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Alzheimer's Disease of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Aging, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Dingchao Rong
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Leiyun Wang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Hunan Key Laboratory of Pharmacogenetics, Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Department of Pharmacy, Wuhan First Hospital, Wuhan, China
| | - Jianan Song
- Oujiang Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Alzheimer's Disease of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Aging, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Hsuan-Shun Huang
- Department of Research, Center for Prevention and Therapy of Gynecological Cancers, Buddhist Tzu Chi General Hospital, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Jun Zeng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jie Mei
- Oujiang Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Alzheimer's Disease of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Aging, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China.,Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Hunan Key Laboratory of Pharmacogenetics, Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Peng-Yuan Wang
- Oujiang Laboratory, Key Laboratory of Alzheimer's Disease of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Aging, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
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Wang J, Wang N, Zheng Z, Che Y, Suzuki M, Kano S, Lu J, Wang P, Sun Y, Homma A. Exosomal lncRNA HOTAIR induce macrophages to M2 polarization via PI3K/ p-AKT /AKT pathway and promote EMT and metastasis in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma. BMC Cancer 2022; 22:1208. [PMID: 36424539 PMCID: PMC9686105 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-022-10210-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Exosomes are a new way of the communication between the tumor cell and macrophage in the micro-environment. The macrophage can be induced to different phenotypes according to the different tumors. In the present study, long-chain noncoding RNA HOTAIR (lncRNA HOTAIR) was highly expressed in LSCC and exosomes. The pathway of exosomal lncRNA HOTAIR inducing macrophage to M2 polarization in the LSCC was investigated. The carcinoma tissues and adjacent tissues were collected from 104 LSCC cases, and the positive relationship between CD163-/CD206-M2 macrophage infiltration and clinical phase, lymph node spreading and pathological phase in LSCC was observed. To examine the role of exosomal lncRNA HOTAIR, macrophages were co-cultured with LSCC-exosomes of high lncRNA HOTAIR expression or transferred with HOTAIR mimics. It was suggested that exosomal lncRNA HOTAIR can induce macrophages to M2 polarization by PI3K/p-AKT/AKT signaling pathway. Furthermore, exo-treated M2 macrophages facilitate the migration, proliferation, and EMT of LSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingting Wang
- grid.412463.60000 0004 1762 6325Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Nan Wang
- grid.412463.60000 0004 1762 6325Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Zeyu Zheng
- grid.412463.60000 0004 1762 6325Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Yanlu Che
- grid.412463.60000 0004 1762 6325Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Masanobu Suzuki
- grid.39158.360000 0001 2173 7691Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Satoshi Kano
- grid.39158.360000 0001 2173 7691Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Jianguang Lu
- grid.412463.60000 0004 1762 6325Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Peng Wang
- grid.412463.60000 0004 1762 6325Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Yanan Sun
- grid.412463.60000 0004 1762 6325Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Akihiro Homma
- grid.39158.360000 0001 2173 7691Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
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Dong C, Dang L, Gao X, Xu R, Zhang H, Zhang X. Systematic Analysis of Tumor Microenvironment Patterns and Oxidative Stress Characteristics of Endometrial Carcinoma Mediated by 5-Methylcytosine Regulators. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:6431164. [PMID: 36187339 PMCID: PMC9519350 DOI: 10.1155/2022/6431164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
As a widely distributed RNA methylation modification, m5C is involved in the regulation of tumorigenesis. Nevertheless, its fundamental process is not clear. This research sought to examine the genetic properties of the 5-methylcytosine (m5C) regulator in endometrial carcinoma, as well as the prognostic significance and impact of m5C regulators on oxidative stress. Therefore, the TCGA-UCEC data set was used to explore the characteristics of 17 RNAm5C-related genes in the transcriptome, genome, and regulatory network. The subtypes of RNAm5C in UCEC were identified based on the expression levels of 17 RNAm5C-related genes. The prognosis of RNAm5C-2 was significantly better than that of RNAm5C-1. Then, we examined the differences (variations) across various subtypes in terms of immune cell infiltration (ICI) as well as the expression of immune-related signal markers. The findings demonstrated that there were distinct variations in the infiltration level of immune cells in each subtype, which may be the reason for the differences in the prognosis of each subtype. In addition, the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) among RNAm5C subtypes of different UCEC tumors were identified, and the DEGs significant for survival were screened. After obtaining 34 prognostic genes, the dimensionality was reduced to construct an RNA methylation score (RS). As per the findings, RS is a more accurate marker for determining the prognosis for patients with endometrial cancer. The RS was used to categorize UCEC tumor samples, and these results led to the formation of high-score and low-score groups. The patients in the group with a high-RNA methylation score exhibited a survival time that was considerably longer in contrast with those in the group with a low-RNA methylation score. The capacity of RS to predict whether or not immunotherapy would be beneficial was explored further. In the group with a high-RNA methylation score, the objective response rate to the anti-PD-L1 therapy was substantially greater compared to that observed in the subgroup with a low-RNA methylation score. Additionally, there were variations across various RS groups in terms of clinical features, tumor mutation burden, and the infiltration level of immune cells. After binary tree analysis and PCR verification of 34 prognostic genes, it is finally found that the six genes of MAGOH3P, TRBJ2_3, YTHDF1P1, RP11_323D18.5, RP11_405M12.2, and ADAM30 are significantly overexpressed in cancer tissues. These genes can be used as potential biomarkers of endometrial cancer and provide data support for precise immunotherapy in UCEC tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunli Dong
- Department of Anesthesiology and Operation, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, China
| | - Ling Dang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, China
| | - Xiaocui Gao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, China
| | - Renyan Xu
- Department of Anesthesiology and Operation, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, China
| | - Hui Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Operation, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, China
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Petrosyan V, Dobrolecki LE, LaPlante EL, Srinivasan RR, Bailey MH, Welm AL, Welm BE, Lewis MT, Milosavljevic A. Immunologically "cold" triple negative breast cancers engraft at a higher rate in patient derived xenografts. NPJ Breast Cancer 2022; 8:104. [PMID: 36088362 PMCID: PMC9464188 DOI: 10.1038/s41523-022-00476-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
TNBC is a heterogeneous subtype of breast cancer, and only a subset of TNBC can be established as PDXs. Here, we show that there is an engraftment bias toward TNBC with low levels of immune cell infiltration. Additionally, TNBC that failed to engraft show gene expression consistent with a cancer-promoting immunological state, leading us to hypothesize that the immunological state of the tumor and possibly the state of the immune system of the host may be essential for engraftment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varduhi Petrosyan
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Lacey E Dobrolecki
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Emily L LaPlante
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | - Matthew H Bailey
- Eccles Institute of Human Genetics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Alana L Welm
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Oncological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Bryan E Welm
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Michael T Lewis
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Dan L Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Departments of Molecular and Cellular Biology and Radiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
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36
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Hashimoto S, Hashimoto A, Muromoto R, Kitai Y, Oritani K, Matsuda T. Central Roles of STAT3-Mediated Signals in Onset and Development of Cancers: Tumorigenesis and Immunosurveillance. Cells 2022; 11:cells11162618. [PMID: 36010693 PMCID: PMC9406645 DOI: 10.3390/cells11162618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the time of Rudolf Virchow in the 19th century, it has been well-known that cancer-associated inflammation contributes to tumor initiation and progression. However, it remains unclear whether a collapse of the balance between the antitumor immune response via the immunological surveillance system and protumor immunity due to cancer-related inflammation is responsible for cancer malignancy. The majority of inflammatory signals affect tumorigenesis by activating signal transducer and activation of transcription 3 (STAT3) and nuclear factor-κB. Persistent STAT3 activation in malignant cancer cells mediates extremely widespread functions, including cell growth, survival, angiogenesis, and invasion and contributes to an increase in inflammation-associated tumorigenesis. In addition, intracellular STAT3 activation in immune cells causes suppressive effects on antitumor immunity and leads to the differentiation and mobilization of immature myeloid-derived cells and tumor-associated macrophages. In many cancer types, STAT3 does not directly rely on its activation by oncogenic mutations but has important oncogenic and malignant transformation-associated functions in both cancer and stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME). We have reported a series of studies aiming towards understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying the proliferation of various types of tumors involving signal-transducing adaptor protein-2 as an adaptor molecule that modulates STAT3 activity, and we recently found that AT-rich interactive domain-containing protein 5a functions as an mRNA stabilizer that orchestrates an immunosuppressive TME in malignant mesenchymal tumors. In this review, we summarize recent advances in our understanding of the functional role of STAT3 in tumor progression and introduce novel molecular mechanisms of cancer development and malignant transformation involving STAT3 activation that we have identified to date. Finally, we discuss potential therapeutic strategies for cancer that target the signaling pathway to augment STAT3 activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shigeru Hashimoto
- Division of Molecular Psychoimmunology, Institute for Genetic Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0815, Japan
- Correspondence: (S.H.); (T.M.)
| | - Ari Hashimoto
- Department of Molecular Biology, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-8638, Japan
| | - Ryuta Muromoto
- Department of Immunology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0812, Japan
| | - Yuichi Kitai
- Department of Immunology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0812, Japan
| | - Kenji Oritani
- Department of Hematology, International University of Health and Welfare, Narita 286-8686, Japan
| | - Tadashi Matsuda
- Department of Immunology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0812, Japan
- Correspondence: (S.H.); (T.M.)
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Feng Y, Ye Z, Song F, He Y, Liu J. The Role of TAMs in Tumor Microenvironment and New Research Progress. Stem Cells Int 2022; 2022:5775696. [PMID: 36004381 PMCID: PMC9395242 DOI: 10.1155/2022/5775696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 07/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are an important part of tumor microenvironment (TME) and play a key role in TME, participating in the process of tumor occurrence, growth, invasion, and metastasis. Among them, metastasis to tumor tissue is the key step of malignant development of tumor. In this paper, the latest progress in the role of TAMs in the formation of tumor microenvironment is summarized. It is particularly noteworthy that cell and animal experiments show that TAMs can provide a favorable microenvironment for the occurrence and development of tumors. At the same time, clinical pathological experiments show that the accumulation of TAMs in tumor is related to poor clinical efficacy. Finally, this paper discusses the feasibility of TAMs-targeted therapy as a new indirect cancer therapy. This paper provides a theoretical basis for finding a potentially effective macrophage-targeted tumor therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yawei Feng
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhiqiang Ye
- Department of Emergency, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Furong Song
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yufeng He
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jun Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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38
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Xu H, Zhang F, Gao X, Zhou Q, Zhu L. Fate decisions of breast cancer stem cells in cancer progression. Front Oncol 2022; 12:968306. [PMID: 36046046 PMCID: PMC9420991 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.968306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer has a marked recurrence and metastatic trait and is one of the most prevalent malignancies affecting women’s health worldwide. Tumor initiation and progression begin after the cell goes from a quiescent to an activated state and requires different mechanisms to act in concert to regulate t a specific set of spectral genes for expression. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) have been proven to initiate and drive tumorigenesis due to their capability of self-renew and differentiate. In addition, CSCs are believed to be capable of causing resistance to anti-tumor drugs, recurrence and metastasis. Therefore, exploring the origin, regulatory mechanisms and ultimate fate decision of CSCs in breast cancer outcomes has far-reaching clinical implications for the development of breast cancer stem cell (BCSC)-targeted therapeutic strategies. In this review, we will highlight the contribution of BCSCs to breast cancer and explore the internal and external factors that regulate the fate of BCSCs.
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Novel Systemic Treatment Modalities Including Immunotherapy and Molecular Targeted Therapy for Recurrent and Metastatic Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23147889. [PMID: 35887235 PMCID: PMC9320653 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23147889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs) are the sixth most common cancers worldwide. More than half of patients with HNSCC eventually experience disease recurrence and/or metastasis, which can threaten their long-term survival. HNSCCs located in the oral cavity and larynx are usually associated with tobacco and/or alcohol use, whereas human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, particularly HPV16 infection, is increasingly recognized as a cause of oropharyngeal HNSCC. Despite clinical, histologic, and molecular differences between HPV-positive and HPV-negative HNSCCs, current treatment approaches are the same. For recurrent disease, these strategies include chemotherapy, immunotherapy with PD-1-inhibitors, or a monoclonal antibody, cetuximab, that targets epidermal growth factor; these therapies can be administered either as single agents or in combination. However, these treatment strategies carry a high risk of toxic side effects; therefore, more effective and less toxic treatments are needed. The landscape of HNSCC therapy is changing significantly; numerous clinical trials are underway to test novel therapeutic options like adaptive cellular therapy, antibody-drug conjugates, new targeted therapy agents, novel immunotherapy combinations, and therapeutic vaccines. This review helps in understanding the various developments in HNSCC therapy and sheds light on the path ahead in terms of further research in this field.
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40
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Wu J, Zhu H, Zhang Q, Sun Y, He X, Liao J, Liu Y, Huang L. Nomogram based on the systemic immune-inflammation index for predicting the prognosis of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. Asia Pac J Clin Oncol 2022; 19:e138-e148. [PMID: 35754170 DOI: 10.1111/ajco.13806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
AIM To investigate systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) as prognostic factors and establish a nomogram based on SII for the prediction of survival in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). METHODS One hundred and fifty-five DLBCL patients were randomized into primary (N = 100) and validation (N = 55) cohorts. Kaplan-Meier survival curves and Cox regression models were used to evaluate the impact of SII on survival. The nomogram based on SII was analyzed by using R software. RESULTS Univariate and multivariate analyses revealed that high SII (>1684.), C-reactive protein-to-albumin ratio (CAR > 0.21), and age-adjusted International Prognostic Index (aaIPI) score were independent predictors of overall survival (OS). High SII and aaIPI were independent predictors of progression-free survival. The nomogram had better accuracy and discrimination than the International Prognostic Index, National Comprehensive Cancer Network-International Prognostic Index, and aaIPI systems. The concordance index values of the nomogram for OS were 0.885 in the primary cohort and 0.821 in the validation cohort. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggested that SII, CAR, and aaIPI could be used to judge the prognosis of DLBCL patients. The nomogram was a reliable model for predicting the OS of DLBCL patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wu
- Department of Oncology, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guizhou Cancer Center, Guiyang, China
| | - Haizhen Zhu
- Department of Oncology, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guizhou Cancer Center, Guiyang, China
| | - Qi Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guizhou Cancer Center, Guiyang, China
| | - Yi Sun
- Department of Oncology, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guizhou Cancer Center, Guiyang, China
| | - XinYun He
- Department of Oncology, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guizhou Cancer Center, Guiyang, China
| | - Jiaqun Liao
- Department of Oncology, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guizhou Cancer Center, Guiyang, China
| | - Yuncong Liu
- Department of Oncology, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guizhou Cancer Center, Guiyang, China
| | - Limin Huang
- Department of Oncology, Guizhou Provincial People's Hospital, Guizhou Cancer Center, Guiyang, China
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Macrophages Are a Double-Edged Sword: Molecular Crosstalk between Tumor-Associated Macrophages and Cancer Stem Cells. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12060850. [PMID: 35740975 PMCID: PMC9221070 DOI: 10.3390/biom12060850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2022] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a subset of highly tumorigenic cells in tumors. They have enhanced self-renewal properties, are usually chemo-radioresistant, and can promote tumor recurrence and metastasis. They can recruit macrophages into the tumor microenvironment and differentiate them into tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). TAMs maintain CSC stemness and construct niches that are favorable for CSC survival. However, how CSCs and TAMs interact is not completely understood. An understanding on these mechanisms can provide additional targeting strategies for eliminating CSCs. In this review, we comprehensively summarize the reported mechanisms of crosstalk between CSCs and TAMs and update the related signaling pathways involved in tumor progression. In addition, we discuss potential therapies targeting CSC–TAM interaction, including targeting macrophage recruitment and polarization by CSCs and inhibiting the TAM-induced promotion of CSC stemness. This review also provides the perspective on the major challenge for developing potential therapeutic strategies to overcome CSC-TAM crosstalk.
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Alzawi A, Iftikhar A, Shalgm B, Jones S, Ellis I, Islam M. Receptor, Signal, Nucleus, Action: Signals That Pass through Akt on the Road to Head and Neck Cancer Cell Migration. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14112606. [PMID: 35681586 PMCID: PMC9179418 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14112606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The ecosystem that surrounds a tumour, the microenvironment, has a huge impact on the spread of cancer, but its exact role in the molecular mechanism of spreading is still under scrutiny. This literature review aims to focus on the evidence published on the production of growth factors or proteins from the tumour microenvironment, which initiate signals in cancer cells. This review provides evidence that when Akt, a signalling protein, is activated by different growth factors such as epidermal growth factor, transforming growth factor α/β, vascular endothelial growth factor and nerve growth factor, head and neck cancer cell spreading is stimulated. In a nutshell, it demonstrates that the tumour microenvironment plays an important role in cancer spreading by synthesising and secreting growth factors and suggests that targeting growth-factor-activated Akt in combination therapy could be a valuable therapeutic approach in treating head and neck cancer patients. Abstract This review aims to provide evidence for the role of the tumour microenvironment in cancer progression, including invasion and metastasis. The tumour microenvironment is complex and consists of tumour cells and stromal-derived cells, in addition to a modified extracellular matrix. The cellular components synthesise growth factors such as EGF, TGFα and β, VEGF, and NGF, which have been shown to initiate paracrine signalling in head and neck cancer cells by binding to cell surface receptors. One example is the phosphorylation, and hence activation, of the signalling protein Akt, which can ultimately induce oral cancer cell migration in vitro. Blocking of Akt activation by an inhibitor, MK2206, leads to a significant decrease, in vitro, of cancer-derived cell migration, visualised in both wound healing and scatter assays. Signalling pathways have therefore been popular targets for the design of chemotherapeutic agents, but drug resistance has been observed and is related to direct tumour–tumour cell communication, the tumour–extracellular matrix interface, and tumour–stromal cell interactions. Translation of this knowledge to patient care is reliant upon a comprehensive understanding of the complex relationships present in the tumour microenvironment and could ultimately lead to the design of efficacious treatment regimens such as targeted therapy or novel therapeutic combinations.
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The Dysregulation of SOX Family Correlates with DNA Methylation and Immune Microenvironment Characteristics to Predict Prognosis in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. DISEASE MARKERS 2022; 2022:2676114. [PMID: 35465267 PMCID: PMC9020970 DOI: 10.1155/2022/2676114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Background Due to the molecular heterogeneity of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), majority of patients respond poorly among various of therapy. This study is aimed at conducting a comprehensive analysis about roles of SOX family in HCC for obtaining more therapeutic targets and biomarkers which may bring new ideas for the treatment of HCC. Methods UALCAN, Kaplan Meier plotter, cBioPortal, STRING, WebGestalt, Metascape, TIMER 2.0, DiseaseMeth, MethSurv, HPA, CCLE database, and Cytoscape software were used to comprehensively analyze the bioinformatic data. Results SOX2, SOX4, SOX8, SOX10, SOX11, SOX12, SOX17, and SOX18 were significantly differentially expressed in HCC and normal tissues and were valuable for the grade and survival of HCC patients. In addition, the gene alterations of SOX family happened frequently, and SOX4 and SOX17 had the highest mutation rate. The function of SOX family on HCC may be closely correlated with the regulation of angiogenesis-related signaling pathways. Moreover, SOX4, SOX8, SOX11, SOX12, SOX17, and SOX18 were correlation with 8 types of immune cells (including CD8+ T cell, CD4+ T cell, B cell, Tregs, neutrophil, macrophage, myeloid DC, and NK cell), and we found that most types of immune cells had a positive correlation with SOX family. Notably, CD4+ T cell and macrophage were positively related with all these SOX family. NK cells were negatively related with most SOX family genes. DNA methylation levels in promoter area of SOX2, SOX4, and SOX10 were lower in HCC than normal tissues, while SOX8, SOX11, SOX17, and SOX18 had higher DNA methylation levels than normal tissues. Moreover, higher DNA methylation level of SOX12 and SOX18 demonstrated worse survival rates in patients with HCC. Conclusion SOX family genes could predict the prognosis of HCC. In addition, the regulation of angiogenesis-related signaling pathways may participate in the development of HCC. DNA methylation level and immune microenvironment characteristics (especially CD4+ T cell and macrophage immune cell infiltration) could be a novel insight for predicting prognosis in HCC.
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Wang H, Man Q, Huo F, Gao X, Lin H, Li S, Wang J, Su F, Cai, L, Shi Y, Liu, B, Bu L. STAT3 pathway in cancers: Past, present, and future. MedComm (Beijing) 2022; 3:e124. [PMID: 35356799 PMCID: PMC8942302 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 02/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), a member of the STAT family, discovered in the cytoplasm of almost all types of mammalian cells, plays a significant role in biological functions. The duration of STAT3 activation in normal tissues is a transient event and is strictly regulated. However, in cancer tissues, STAT3 is activated in an aberrant manner and is induced by certain cytokines. The continuous activation of STAT3 regulates the expression of downstream proteins associated with the formation, progression, and metastasis of cancers. Thus, elucidating the mechanisms of STAT3 regulation and designing inhibitors targeting the STAT3 pathway are considered promising strategies for cancer treatment. This review aims to introduce the history, research advances, and prospects concerning the STAT3 pathway in cancer. We review the mechanisms of STAT3 pathway regulation and the consequent cancer hallmarks associated with tumor biology that are induced by the STAT3 pathway. Moreover, we summarize the emerging development of inhibitors that target the STAT3 pathway and novel drug delivery systems for delivering these inhibitors. The barriers against targeting the STAT3 pathway, the focus of future research on promising targets in the STAT3 pathway, and our perspective on the overall utility of STAT3 pathway inhibitors in cancer treatment are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han‐Qi Wang
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei‐MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education School & Hospital of Stomatology Wuhan University Wuhan China
| | - Qi‐Wen Man
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei‐MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education School & Hospital of Stomatology Wuhan University Wuhan China
- Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Head Neck Oncology School & Hospital of Stomatology Wuhan University Wuhan China
| | - Fang‐Yi Huo
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei‐MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education School & Hospital of Stomatology Wuhan University Wuhan China
| | - Xin Gao
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei‐MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education School & Hospital of Stomatology Wuhan University Wuhan China
| | - Hao Lin
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei‐MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education School & Hospital of Stomatology Wuhan University Wuhan China
| | - Su‐Ran Li
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei‐MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education School & Hospital of Stomatology Wuhan University Wuhan China
| | - Jing Wang
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei‐MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education School & Hospital of Stomatology Wuhan University Wuhan China
| | - Fu‐Chuan Su
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei‐MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education School & Hospital of Stomatology Wuhan University Wuhan China
| | - Lulu Cai,
- Personalized Drug Therapy Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province Department of Pharmacy School of Medicine Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital University of Electronic Science and Technology of China Chengdu China
| | - Yi Shi
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study and Department of Laboratory Medicine Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital University of Electronic Science and Technology of China Chengdu China
| | - Bing Liu,
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei‐MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education School & Hospital of Stomatology Wuhan University Wuhan China
- Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Head Neck Oncology School & Hospital of Stomatology Wuhan University Wuhan China
| | - Lin‐Lin Bu
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei‐MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education School & Hospital of Stomatology Wuhan University Wuhan China
- Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Head Neck Oncology School & Hospital of Stomatology Wuhan University Wuhan China
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Xiao M, He J, Yin L, Chen X, Zu X, Shen Y. Tumor-Associated Macrophages: Critical Players in Drug Resistance of Breast Cancer. Front Immunol 2022; 12:799428. [PMID: 34992609 PMCID: PMC8724912 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.799428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Drug resistance is one of the most critical challenges in breast cancer (BC) treatment. The occurrence and development of drug resistance are closely related to the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME). Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), the most important immune cells in TIME, are essential for drug resistance in BC treatment. In this article, we summarize the effects of TAMs on the resistance of various drugs in endocrine therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy, and their underlying mechanisms. Based on the current overview of the key role of TAMs in drug resistance, we discuss the potential possibility for targeting TAMs to reduce drug resistance in BC treatment, By inhibiting the recruitment of TAMs, depleting the number of TAMs, regulating the polarization of TAMs and enhancing the phagocytosis of TAMs. Evidences in our review support it is important to develop novel therapeutic strategies to target TAMs in BC to overcome the treatment of resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maoyu Xiao
- Cancer Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Jun He
- Department of Spine Surgery, The Nanhua Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Liyang Yin
- Cancer Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Xiguan Chen
- Cancer Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Xuyu Zu
- Cancer Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Yingying Shen
- Cancer Research Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
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Huang X, Cao J, Zu X. Tumor-associated macrophages: An important player in breast cancer progression. Thorac Cancer 2022; 13:269-276. [PMID: 34914196 PMCID: PMC8807249 DOI: 10.1111/1759-7714.14268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most common form of malignant tumor in females, accounting for the second highest mortality among cancer patients. In the breast tumor microenvironment, tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are the most abundant immune cells, which regulate the progression of breast cancer. During breast cancer tumorigenesis and progression, TAMs support breast tumor growth by promoting angiogenesis and cancer cell metastasis, inducing cancer stemness, regulating energy metabolism, and supporting immune system suppression. TAMs exhibit a high degree of cellular plasticity. Repolarizing tumor-related macrophages into M1 macrophages can promote tumor regression. This study reviews the role and mechanism of action of TAMs in the development of breast cancer and establishes TAMs as effective targets for breast cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinqun Huang
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South ChinaHengyangChina
| | - Jingsong Cao
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South ChinaHengyangChina
| | - Xuyu Zu
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of South ChinaHengyangChina
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Zhang T, Zhou H, Wang K, Wang X, Wang M, Zhao W, Xi X, Li Y, Cai M, Zhao W, Xu Y, Shao R. Role, molecular mechanism and the potential target of breast cancer stem cells in breast cancer development. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 147:112616. [PMID: 35008001 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.112616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Revised: 01/01/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is one of the most common malignant tumors in women globally, and its occurrence has surpassed lung cancer and become the biggest threat for women. At present, breast cancer treatment includes surgical resection or postoperative chemotherapy and radiotherapy. However, tumor relapse and metastasis usually lead to current therapy failure thanks to breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs)-mediated tumorigenicity and drug resistance. Drug resistance is mainly due to the long-term quiescent G0 phase, strong DNA repairability, and high expression of ABC transporter, and the tumorigenicity is reflected in the activation of various proliferation pathways related to BCSCs. Therefore, understanding the characteristics of BCSCs and their intracellular and extracellular molecular mechanisms is crucial for the development of targeted drugs for BCSCs. To this end, we discussed the latest developments in BCSCs research, focusing on the analysis of specific markers, critical signaling pathways that maintain the stemness of BCSCs,such as NOTCH, Wnt/β-catenin, STAT3, Hedgehog, and Hippo-YAP signaling, immunomicroenviroment and summarizes targeting therapy strategies for stemness maintenance and differentiation, which provides a theoretical basis for further exploration of treating breast cancer and preventing relapse derived from BCSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianshu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Antibiotic Bioengineering, Ministry of Health, Laboratory of Oncology, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Huimin Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Antibiotic Bioengineering, Ministry of Health, Laboratory of Oncology, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Kexin Wang
- Key Laboratory of Antibiotic Bioengineering, Ministry of Health, Laboratory of Oncology, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Xiaowei Wang
- Key Laboratory of Antibiotic Bioengineering, Ministry of Health, Laboratory of Oncology, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Mengyan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Antibiotic Bioengineering, Ministry of Health, Laboratory of Oncology, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Wenxia Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Antibiotic Bioengineering, Ministry of Health, Laboratory of Oncology, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Xiaoming Xi
- Key Laboratory of Antibiotic Bioengineering, Ministry of Health, Laboratory of Oncology, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Yang Li
- Key Laboratory of Antibiotic Bioengineering, Ministry of Health, Laboratory of Oncology, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Meilian Cai
- Key Laboratory of Antibiotic Bioengineering, Ministry of Health, Laboratory of Oncology, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Wuli Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Antibiotic Bioengineering, Ministry of Health, Laboratory of Oncology, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China.
| | - Yanni Xu
- Key Laboratory of Antibiotic Bioengineering, Ministry of Health, Laboratory of Oncology, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China.
| | - Rongguang Shao
- Key Laboratory of Antibiotic Bioengineering, Ministry of Health, Laboratory of Oncology, Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
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You Y, Tian Z, Du Z, Wu K, Xu G, Dai M, Wang Y, Xiao M. M1-like tumor-associated macrophages cascade a mesenchymal/stem-like phenotype of oral squamous cell carcinoma via the IL6/Stat3/THBS1 feedback loop. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2022; 41:10. [PMID: 34991668 PMCID: PMC8734049 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-021-02222-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) have a leading position in the tumor microenvironment. Previously, we have demonstrated that M1-like TAMs activated by exosome-transferred THBS1 promote malignant migration in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). However, the functional roles and associated molecular mechanisms of the activated M1-like TAMs need to be further clarified in OSCC. METHODS Conditioned Media (CM) were harvested from the exosome activated M1-like TAMs. We measured the malignant behaviors of OSCC under the treatment of CM from M1-like TAMs by performing colony forming assays, invasion assays, wound-healing assays, spheroid forming assays and in vivo xenograft experiments. The underlying mechanisms were investigated by RNA-seq, cytokines analysis, intracellular signaling pathway analysis, ChIP assays, bioinformatics analysis and validation. RESULTS M1-like TAMs significantly promoted the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process, and induced the cancer-stem like cells (CSCs) by upregulating the expression of MME and MMP14 in OSCC cells. Cytokine analysis revealed a shark increase of IL6 secretion from M1-like TAMs. Blocking IL6 in the CM from M1-like TAMs could significantly weaken its effects on the colony forming, invasion, migration, microsphere forming and xenograft forming abilities of OSCC cells. Cellular signaling assays indicated the activation of Jak/Stat3 pathway in the OSCC cells treated by the CM from M1-like TAMs. Blocking the activation of the Jak/Stat3 pathway could significantly weaken the effects of M1-like TAMs on the colony forming, invasion, migration, microsphere forming and xenograft forming abilities of OSCC cells. Further RNA-seq analysis and bioinformatics analysis revealed an increased expression of THBS1 in the OSCC cells treated by M1-like TAMs. Bioinformatics prediction and ChIP assays revealed the activation of Stat3 by CM from M1-like TAMs could directly promote the transcription of THBS1 in OSCC cells. CONCLUSIONS We proposed that M1-like TAMs could cascade a mesenchymal/stem-like phenotype of OSCC via the IL6/Stat3/THBS1 feedback loop. A better understanding on the functional roles and associated molecular mechanisms of M1-like TAMs might facilitate the development of novel therapies for supplementing the current treatment strategies for OSCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanhe You
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- National Center for Stomatology; National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology and Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhuowei Tian
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- National Center for Stomatology; National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology and Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhong Du
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- National Center for Stomatology; National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology and Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, Shanghai, China
| | - Kailiu Wu
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- National Center for Stomatology; National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology and Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, Shanghai, China
| | - Guisong Xu
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- National Center for Stomatology; National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology and Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, Shanghai, China
| | - Meilu Dai
- Department of Orthodontics, Shanghai Stomatological Hospital & School of Stomatology, and Shanghai Key Laboratory of Craniomaxillofacial Development and Diseases, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yan'an Wang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
- College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
- National Center for Stomatology; National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology and Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, Shanghai, China.
| | - Meng Xiao
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
- College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
- National Center for Stomatology; National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology and Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, Shanghai, China.
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Wilczyński JR. Cancer Stem Cells: An Ever-Hiding Foe. EXPERIENTIA SUPPLEMENTUM (2012) 2022; 113:219-251. [PMID: 35165866 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-91311-3_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells are a population of cells enable to reproduce the original phenotype of the tumor and capable to self-renewal, which is crucial for tumor proliferation, differentiation, recurrence, and metastasis, as well as chemoresistance. Therefore, the cancer stem cells (CSCs) have become one of the main targets for anticancer therapy and many ongoing clinical trials test anti-CSCs efficacy of plenty of drugs. This chapter describes CSCs starting from general description of this cell population, through CSCs markers, signaling pathways, genetic and epigenetic regulation, role of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) transition and autophagy, cooperation with microenvironment (CSCs niche), and finally role of CSCs in escaping host immunosurveillance against cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacek R Wilczyński
- Department of Gynecologic Surgery and Gynecologic Oncology, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland.
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Chen Q, Zheng Y, Chen X, Ge P, Wang P, Wu B. Upregulation of miR-216a-5p by Lentinan Targeted Inhibition of JAK2/STAT3 Signaling Pathway to Reduce Lung Adenocarcinoma Cell Stemness, Promote Apoptosis, and Slow Down the Lung Adenocarcinoma Mechanisms. Front Oncol 2021; 11:778096. [PMID: 34900727 PMCID: PMC8656221 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.778096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
To investigate the effect of Lentinan (LNT) on lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) cell stemness and its mechanism. In this study, we founded that LNT significantly reduce the cell proliferation, activity, migration, invasion, and stemness of LUAD cells, and promote their apoptosis compared with the control group in vitro. Moreover, LNT significantly inhibited the volume and weight of tumors of nude mice in vivo. At the same time, LNT can significantly up-regulate miR-216a-5p levels and reduce the protein expression of phospho-JAK2 (Y1007/1008) and phospho-STAT3 (Tyr705), thereby inhibiting the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway. Interfering with miR-216a-5p expression and activating the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway can significantly reverse LNT inhibitory effects on LUAD. Collectively, LNT can inhibit the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway by up-regulating miR-216a-5p, reducing stemness, and promoting LUAD cells apoptosis, then slow down LUAD occurrence and development, providing concepts and experimental foundation treating patients with LUAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quan Chen
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Hospital Affiliated 5 to Nantong University (Taizhou People's Hospital), Taizhou, China
| | - Yiming Zheng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Hospital Affiliated 5 to Nantong University (Taizhou People's Hospital), Taizhou, China
| | - Xia Chen
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Hospital Affiliated 5 to Nantong University (Taizhou People's Hospital), Taizhou, China
| | - Pengfei Ge
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Hospital Affiliated 5 to Nantong University (Taizhou People's Hospital), Taizhou, China
| | - Pengcheng Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Hospital Affiliated 5 to Nantong University (Taizhou People's Hospital), Taizhou, China
| | - Bingbing Wu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Hospital Affiliated 5 to Nantong University (Taizhou People's Hospital), Taizhou, China
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