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Baek BS, Park H, Choi JW, Lee EY, Youn JI, Seong SY. Dendritic cells pulsed with penetratin-OLFM4 inhibit the growth and metastasis of melanoma in mice. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 177:117083. [PMID: 38968793 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.117083] [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: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 06/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) can self-renew and differentiate, contributing to tumor heterogeneity, metastasis, and recurrence. Their resistance to therapies, including immunotherapy, underscores the importance of targeting them for complete remission and relapse prevention. Olfactomedin 4 (OLFM4), a marker associated with various cancers such as colorectal cancer, is expressed on CSCs promoting immune evasion and tumorigenesis. However, its potential as a target for CSC-specific immunotherapy remains underexplored. The primary aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of targeting OLFM4 with dendritic cell (DC)-based vaccines in inhibiting tumor growth and metastasis. To improve antigen delivery and immune response, OLFM4 was conjugated with a protein-transduction domain (PTD) from the antennapedia of Drosophila called penetratin, creating a fusion protein (P-OLFM4). The efficacy of DCs pulsed with P-OLFM4 (DCs [P-OLFM4]) was compared to DCs pulsed with OLFM4 (DCs [OLFM4]) and PBS (DCs [PBS]). DCs [P-OLFM4] inhibited tumor growth by 91.2 % and significantly reduced lung metastasis of OLFM4+ melanoma cells by 97 %, compared to the DCs [PBS]. DCs [OLFM4] also demonstrated a reduction in lung metastasis by 59.7 % compared to DCs [PBS]. Immunization with DCs [P-OLFM4] enhanced OLFM4-specific T-cell proliferation, interferon-γ production, and cytotoxic T cell activity in mice. The results indicate that OLFM4 is a viable target for CSC-focused immunotherapy. DC [P-OLFM4] vaccines can elicit robust immune responses, significantly inhibiting tumor growth and metastasis. This strategy holds promise for developing more effective cancer treatments that specifically target CSCs, potentially leading to better patient outcomes by reducing the likelihood of tumor relapse and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bum-Seo Baek
- Wide River Institute of Immunology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Hongcheon, Gangwon Province, South Korea; Department of Biomedical Sciences, South Korea
| | - Hyunmi Park
- Wide River Institute of Immunology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Hongcheon, Gangwon Province, South Korea
| | - Ji-Woong Choi
- Wide River Institute of Immunology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Hongcheon, Gangwon Province, South Korea
| | - Eun-Young Lee
- Wide River Institute of Immunology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Hongcheon, Gangwon Province, South Korea
| | - Je-In Youn
- Wide River Institute of Immunology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Hongcheon, Gangwon Province, South Korea; Department of Biomedical Sciences, South Korea
| | - Seung-Yong Seong
- Wide River Institute of Immunology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Hongcheon, Gangwon Province, South Korea; Department of Biomedical Sciences, South Korea; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea; Shaperon Inc. Ltd, Seoul, South Korea.
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2
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Vasileiou M, Diamantoudis SC, Tsianava C, Nguyen NP. Immunotherapeutic Strategies Targeting Breast Cancer Stem Cells. Curr Oncol 2024; 31:3040-3063. [PMID: 38920716 PMCID: PMC11203270 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol31060232] [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: 04/29/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women and is a leading cause of cancer death in women worldwide. Despite the implementation of multiple treatment options, including immunotherapy, breast cancer treatment remains a challenge. In this review, we aim to summarize present challenges in breast cancer immunotherapy and recent advancements in overcoming treatment resistance. We elaborate on the inhibition of signaling cascades, such as the Notch, Hedgehog, Hippo, and WNT signaling pathways, which regulate the self-renewal and differentiation of breast cancer stem cells and, consequently, disease progression and survival. Cancer stem cells represent a rare population of cancer cells, likely originating from non-malignant stem or progenitor cells, with the ability to evade immune surveillance and develop resistance to immunotherapeutic treatments. We also discuss the interactions between breast cancer stem cells and the immune system, including potential agents targeting breast cancer stem cell-associated signaling pathways, and provide an overview of the emerging approaches to breast cancer stem cell-targeted immunotherapy. Finally, we consider the development of breast cancer vaccines and adoptive cellular therapies, which train the immune system to recognize tumor-associated antigens, for eliciting T cell-mediated responses to target breast cancer stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Vasileiou
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15771 Athens, Greece;
| | | | - Christina Tsianava
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Nam P. Nguyen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Howard University, Washington, DC 20060, USA
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3
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Chen E, Zou Z, Wang R, Liu J, Peng Z, Gan Z, Lin Z, Liu J. Predictive value of a stemness-based classifier for prognosis and immunotherapy response of hepatocellular carcinoma based on bioinformatics and machine-learning strategies. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1244392. [PMID: 38694506 PMCID: PMC11061862 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1244392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective Significant advancements have been made in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) therapeutics, such as immunotherapy for treating patients with HCC. However, there is a lack of reliable biomarkers for predicting the response of patients to therapy, which continues to be challenging. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are involved in the oncogenesis, drug resistance, and invasion, as well as metastasis of HCC cells. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to create an mRNA expression-based stemness index (mRNAsi) model to predict the response of patients with HCC to immunotherapy. Methods We retrieved gene expression and clinical data of patients with HCC from the GSE14520 dataset and the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Next, we used the "one-class logistic regression (OCLR)" algorithm to obtain the mRNAsi of patients with HCC. We performed "unsupervised consensus clustering" to classify patients with HCC based on the mRNAsi scores and stemness subtypes. The relationships between the mRNAsi model, clinicopathological features, and genetic profiles of patients were compared using various bioinformatic methods. We screened for differentially expressed genes to establish a stemness-based classifier for predicting the patient's prognosis. Next, we determined the effect of risk scores on the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) and the response of patients to immune checkpoint blockade (ICB). Finally, we used qRT-PCR to investigate gene expression in patients with HCC. Results We screened CSC-related genes using various bioinformatics tools in patients from the TCGA-LIHC cohort. We constructed a stemness classifier based on a nine-gene (PPARGC1A, FTCD, CFHR3, MAGEA6, CXCL8, CABYR, EPO, HMMR, and UCK2) signature for predicting the patient's prognosis and response to ICBs. Further, the model was validated in an independent GSE14520 dataset and performed well. Our model could predict the status of TIME, immunogenomic expressions, congenic pathway, and response to chemotherapy drugs. Furthermore, a significant increase in the proportion of infiltrating macrophages, Treg cells, and immune checkpoints was observed in patients in the high-risk group. In addition, tumor cells in patients with high mRNAsi scores could escape immune surveillance. Finally, we observed that the constructed model had a good expression in the clinical samples. The HCC tumor size and UCK2 genes expression were significantly alleviated and decreased, respectively, by treatments of anti-PD1 antibody. We also found knockdown UCK2 changed expressions of immune genes in HCC cell lines. Conclusion The novel stemness-related model could predict the prognosis of patients and aid in creating personalized immuno- and targeted therapy for patients in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erbao Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhilin Zou
- Department of Ophthalmology, Affiliated Eye Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Rongyue Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Jie Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhen Peng
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhe Gan
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Zewei Lin
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Jikui Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
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Li Y, Fang J, Singh K, Ortu F, Suntharalingam K. An immunogenic anti-cancer stem cell bi-nuclear copper(II)-flufenamic acid complex. Dalton Trans 2024; 53:6410-6415. [PMID: 38501501 DOI: 10.1039/d4dt00384e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
An asymmetric bi-nuclear copper(II) complex with both cytotoxic and immunogenic activity towards breast cancer stem cells (CSCs) is reported. The bi-nuclear copper(II) complex comprises of two copper(II) centres bound to flufenamic acid and 3,4,7,8-tetramethyl-1,10-phenanthroline. The bi-nuclear copper(II) complex exhibits sub-micromolar potency towards breast CSCs grown in monolayers and three-dimensional cultures. Remarkably, the bi-nuclear copper(II) complex is up to 25-fold more potent toward breast CSC mammospheres than salinomycin (a gold standard anti-breast CSC agent) and cisplatin (a clinically administered metallodrug). Mechanistic studies showed that the bi-nuclear copper(II) complex readily enters breast CSCs, elevates intracellular reactive oxygen species levels, induces apoptosis, and promotes damage-associated molecular pattern release. The latter triggers phagocytosis of breast CSCs by macrophages. As far as we are aware, this is the first report of a bi-nuclear copper(II) complex to induce engulfment of breast CSCs by immune cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Li
- School of Chemistry, University of Leicester, Leicester, LE1 7RH, UK.
| | - Jiaxin Fang
- School of Chemistry, University of Leicester, Leicester, LE1 7RH, UK.
| | - Kuldip Singh
- School of Chemistry, University of Leicester, Leicester, LE1 7RH, UK.
| | - Fabrizio Ortu
- School of Chemistry, University of Leicester, Leicester, LE1 7RH, UK.
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Fang J, Orobator ON, Olelewe C, Passeri G, Singh K, Awuah SG, Suntharalingam K. A Breast Cancer Stem Active Cobalt(III)-Cyclam Complex Containing Flufenamic Acid with Immunogenic Potential. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202317940. [PMID: 38063406 PMCID: PMC10952489 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202317940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/31/2023]
Abstract
The cytotoxic and immunogenic-activating properties of a cobalt(III)-cyclam complex bearing the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, flufenamic acid is reported within the context of anti-cancer stem cell (CSC) drug discovery. The cobalt(III)-cyclam complex 1 displays sub-micromolar potency towards breast CSCs grown in monolayers, 24-fold and 31-fold greater than salinomycin (an established anti-breast CSC agent) and cisplatin (an anticancer metallopharmaceutical), respectively. Strikingly, the cobalt(III)-cyclam complex 1 is 69-fold and 50-fold more potent than salinomycin and cisplatin towards three-dimensionally cultured breast CSC mammospheres. Mechanistic studies reveal that 1 induces DNA damage, inhibits cyclooxygenase-2 expression, and prompts caspase-dependent apoptosis. Breast CSCs treated with 1 exhibit damage-associated molecular patterns characteristic of immunogenic cell death and are phagocytosed by macrophages. As far as we are aware, 1 is the first cobalt complex of any oxidation state or geometry to display both cytotoxic and immunogenic-activating effects on breast CSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaxin Fang
- School of ChemistryUniversity of LeicesterLeicesterUK
| | | | | | | | - Kuldip Singh
- School of ChemistryUniversity of LeicesterLeicesterUK
| | - Samuel G. Awuah
- Department of ChemistryUniversity of KentuckyLexingtonKYUSA
- Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of KentuckyLexingtonKYUSA
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6
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Turkekul K, Erdogan S. Potent Suppression of Prostate Cancer Cell Growth and Eradication of Cancer Stem Cells by CD44-targeted Nanoliposome-quercetin Nanoparticles. J Cancer Prev 2023; 28:160-174. [PMID: 38205358 PMCID: PMC10774486 DOI: 10.15430/jcp.2023.28.4.160] [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: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The bioavailability of quercetin, a natural compound, is hindered by low solubility, limited absorption, and restricted systemic availability. Therefore, encapsulating it in biocompatible nanoparticles presents a promising solution. This study aimed to target prostate cancer stem cells (CSCs) overexpressing CD44+ receptors as well as cancer cells, employing quercetin-loaded hyaluronic acid-modified nanoliposomes (LP-Quer-HA). Synthesized via a green ethanol injection method, these nanoliposomes had an average diameter of 134 nm and an impressive loading efficiency of 96.9%. Human prostate cancer cells were treated with either 10 μM of free quercetin or the same concentration delivered by LP-Quer-HA for 72 hours. Free quercetin reduced androgen-resistant PC3 cell viability by 16%, while LP-Quer-HA significantly increased cell death to 60%. It induced apoptosis, upregulating cytochrome c, Bax, caspases 3 and 8, and downregulating survivin and Bcl-2 expression. Compared to free quercetin, LP-Quer-HA upregulated E-cadherin expression while inhibiting cell migration and reducing the expression of fibronectin, N-cadherin, and MMP9. Treatment of PC3 cell tumor spheroids with LP-Quer-HA decreased the number of CD44 cells and expression of CD44, Oct3/4 and Wnt. Moreover, LP-Quer-HA inhibited p-ERK expression while increasing p38/MAPK and NF-κB protein expression. In androgen-sensitive LNCaP cells, LP-Quer-HA efficacy was notable, reducing cell viability from 10% to 52% compared to free quercetin. Utilizing HA-modified nanoliposomes as a quercetin delivery system enhanced its potency at lower concentrations, reducing the CD44+ cell population and effectively impeding prostate cancer cell proliferation and migration. These findings underscore the potential of quercetin-loaded cationic nanoliposomes as a robust therapeutic approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kader Turkekul
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Medicine, Trakya University, Balkan Campus, Edirne, Turkey
| | - Suat Erdogan
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Medicine, Trakya University, Balkan Campus, Edirne, Turkey
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7
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Anayyat U, Ahad F, Muluh TA, Zaidi SAA, Usmani F, Yang H, Li M, Hassan HA, Wang X. Immunotherapy: Constructive Approach for Breast Cancer Treatment. BREAST CANCER (DOVE MEDICAL PRESS) 2023; 15:925-951. [PMID: 38116189 PMCID: PMC10729681 DOI: 10.2147/bctt.s424624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
A novel and rapid therapeutic approach is the treatment of human breast cancer by enhancing the host's immune system. In initial findings, program death one (PD-1) and program cell death ligand one (PD-L1) showed positive results towards solid tumors, but tumor relapse and drug resistance are the major concerns. Breast cancer therapy has been transformed by the advent of immune checkpoint blockades (ICBs). Triple-negative breast cancers (TNBCs) have exhibited enduring responses to clinical usage of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICBs) like atezolizumab and pembrolizumab. Nonetheless, a notable proportion of individuals with TNBC do not experience advantages from these treatments, and there is limited comprehension of the resistance mechanisms. Another approach to overcome resistance is cancer stem cells (CSCs), as these cells are crucial for the initiation and growth of tumors in the body. Various cancer vaccines are created using stem cells (dendritic, whole cell, bacterial) and focus primarily on targeting tumor-related antigens. The ultimate objective of cancer vaccines is to immunize the patients by active artificial immunity against cancer, though. In this review, we primarily focused on existing immunotherapeutic options, immune checkpoint blockers, the latest progress in understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying resistance to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICBs), advanced strategies to overcome resistance to ICBs, cancer stem cell antigens and molecular markers, ongoing clinical trials for BCs and cancer vaccines for breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Umer Anayyat
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Health Sciences Center, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, People’s Republic of China
| | - Faiza Ahad
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Health Sciences Center, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tobias Achu Muluh
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Health Sciences Center, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, People’s Republic of China
| | - Syed Aqib Ali Zaidi
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Health Sciences Center, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, People’s Republic of China
| | - Faiza Usmani
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Karachi, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Hua Yang
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Health Sciences Center, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, People’s Republic of China
| | - Mengqing Li
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Health Sciences Center, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hammad Ali Hassan
- Department of Cell Developmental and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Xiaomei Wang
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Health Sciences Center, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, People’s Republic of China
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Lasso P, Rojas L, Arévalo C, Urueña C, Murillo N, Fiorentino S. Natural Products Induce Different Anti-Tumor Immune Responses in Murine Models of 4T1 Mammary Carcinoma and B16-F10 Melanoma. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16698. [PMID: 38069022 PMCID: PMC10706186 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242316698] [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: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural products obtained from Petiveria alliacea (Anamu-SC) and Caesalpinia spinosa (P2Et) have been used for cancer treatment, but the mechanisms by which they exert their antitumor activity appear to be different. In the present work, we show that the Anamu-SC extract reduces tumor growth in the 4T1 murine mammary carcinoma model but not in the B16-F10 melanoma model, unlike the standardized P2Et extract. Both extracts decreased the levels of interleukin-10 (IL-10) in the B16-F10 model, but only P2Et increased the levels of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) and interferon gamma (IFNγ). Likewise, co-treatment of P2Et and doxorubicin (Dox) significantly reduced tumor size by 70% compared to the control group, but co-treatment of Anamu-SC with Dox had no additive effect. Analysis of intratumoral immune infiltrates showed that Anamu-SC decreased CD4+ T cell frequency more than P2Et but increased CD8+ T cell frequency more significantly. Both extracts reduced intratumoral monocytic myeloid-derived suppressor-like cell (M-MDSC-LC) migration, but the effect was lost when co-treated with doxorubicin. The use of P2Et alone or in co-treatment with Anamu-SC reduced the frequency of regulatory T cells and increased the CD8+/Treg ratio. In addition, Anamu-SC reduced glucose consumption in tumor cells, but this apparently has no effect on IFNγ- and TNFα-producing T cells, although it did reduce the frequency of IL-2-producing T cells. The efficacy of these herbal preparations is increasingly clear, as is the specificity conditioned by tumor heterogeneity as well as the different chemical complexity of each preparation. Although these results contribute to the understanding of specificity and its future benefits, they also underline the fact that the development of each of these standardized extracts called polymolecular drugs must follow a rigorous path to elucidate their biological activity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Susana Fiorentino
- Grupo de Inmunobiología y Biología Celular, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá 110231, Colombia; (P.L.); (L.R.); (C.A.); (C.U.); (N.M.)
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9
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Izadpanah A, Mohammadkhani N, Masoudnia M, Ghasemzad M, Saeedian A, Mehdizadeh H, Poorebrahim M, Ebrahimi M. Update on immune-based therapy strategies targeting cancer stem cells. Cancer Med 2023; 12:18960-18980. [PMID: 37698048 PMCID: PMC10557910 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.6520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Accumulating data reveals that tumors possess a specialized subset of cancer cells named cancer stem cells (CSCs), responsible for metastasis and recurrence of malignancies, with various properties such as self-renewal, heterogenicity, and capacity for drug resistance. Some signaling pathways or processes like Notch, epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), Hedgehog (Hh), and Wnt, as well as CSCs' surface markers such as CD44, CD123, CD133, and epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) have pivotal roles in acquiring CSCs properties. Therefore, targeting CSC-related signaling pathways and surface markers might effectively eradicate tumors and pave the way for cancer survival. Since current treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy cannot eradicate all of the CSCs and tumor relapse may happen following temporary recovery, improving novel and more efficient therapeutic options to combine with current treatments is required. Immunotherapy strategies are the new therapeutic modalities with promising results in targeting CSCs. Here, we review the targeting of CSCs by immunotherapy strategies such as dendritic cell (DC) vaccines, chimeric antigen receptors (CAR)-engineered immune cells, natural killer-cell (NK-cell) therapy, monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), checkpoint inhibitors, and the use of oncolytic viruses (OVs) in pre-clinical and clinical studies. This review will mainly focus on blood malignancies but also describe solid cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amirhossein Izadpanah
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research CenterRoyan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECRTehranIran
| | - Niloufar Mohammadkhani
- Department of Clinical BiochemistrySchool of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
| | - Mina Masoudnia
- Department of ImmunologySchool of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
| | - Mahsa Ghasemzad
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research CenterRoyan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECRTehranIran
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology‐Genetics, Faculty of Basic Sciences and Advanced Technologies in BiologyUniversity of Science and CultureTehranIran
| | - Arefeh Saeedian
- Radiation Oncology Research CenterCancer Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
- Department of Radiation OncologyCancer Institute, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
| | - Hamid Mehdizadeh
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research CenterRoyan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECRTehranIran
| | - Mansour Poorebrahim
- Arnie Charbonneau Cancer Research Institute, University of CalgaryAlbertaCalgaryCanada
| | - Marzieh Ebrahimi
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research CenterRoyan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECRTehranIran
- Department of regenerative medicineCell Science research Center, Royan Institute for stem cell biology and technology, ACECRTehranIran
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Gogola S, Rejzer M, Bahmad HF, Alloush F, Omarzai Y, Poppiti R. Anti-Cancer Stem-Cell-Targeted Therapies in Prostate Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15051621. [PMID: 36900412 PMCID: PMC10000420 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15051621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second-most commonly diagnosed cancer in men around the world. It is treated using a risk stratification approach in accordance with the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) in the United States. The main treatment options for early PCa include external beam radiation therapy (EBRT), brachytherapy, radical prostatectomy, active surveillance, or a combination approach. In those with advanced disease, androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is considered as a first-line therapy. However, the majority of cases eventually progress while receiving ADT, leading to castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). The near inevitable progression to CRPC has spurred the recent development of many novel medical treatments using targeted therapies. In this review, we outline the current landscape of stem-cell-targeted therapies for PCa, summarize their mechanisms of action, and discuss avenues of future development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Gogola
- Department of Translational Medicine, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
| | - Michael Rejzer
- Department of Translational Medicine, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
| | - Hisham F. Bahmad
- The Arkadi M. Rywlin M.D. Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Mount Sinai Medical Center, Miami Beach, FL 33140, USA
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +1-305-674-2277
| | - Ferial Alloush
- The Arkadi M. Rywlin M.D. Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Mount Sinai Medical Center, Miami Beach, FL 33140, USA
| | - Yumna Omarzai
- Department of Translational Medicine, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
- The Arkadi M. Rywlin M.D. Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Mount Sinai Medical Center, Miami Beach, FL 33140, USA
| | - Robert Poppiti
- Department of Translational Medicine, Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
- The Arkadi M. Rywlin M.D. Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Mount Sinai Medical Center, Miami Beach, FL 33140, USA
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Chang MR, Rusanov DA, Arakelyan J, Alshehri M, Asaturova AV, Kireeva GS, Babak MV, Ang WH. Targeting emerging cancer hallmarks by transition metal complexes: Cancer stem cells and tumor microbiome. Part I. Coord Chem Rev 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ccr.2022.214923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
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12
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Identification of an Immune-Related Gene Signature Associated with Prognosis and Tumor Microenvironment in Esophageal Cancer. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 2022:7413535. [PMID: 36588538 PMCID: PMC9803573 DOI: 10.1155/2022/7413535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Background Esophageal cancer (EC) is a common malignant tumor of the digestive system with high mortality and morbidity. Current evidence suggests that immune cells and molecules regulate the initiation and progression of EC. Accordingly, it is necessary to identify immune-related genes (IRGs) affecting the biological behaviors and microenvironmental characteristics of EC. Methods Bioinformatics methods, including differential expression analysis, Cox regression, and immune infiltration prediction, were conducted using R software to analyze the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) dataset. The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) cohort was used to validate the prognostic signature. Patients were stratified into high- and low-risk groups for further analyses, including functional enrichment, immune infiltration, checkpoint relevance, clinicopathological characteristics, and therapeutic sensitivity analyses. Results A prognostic signature was established based on 21 IRGs (S100A7, S100A7A, LCN1, CR2, STAT4, GAST, ANGPTL5, TRAV39, F2RL2, PGLYRP3, KLRD1, TRIM36, PDGFA, SLPI, PCSK2, APLN, TICAM1, ITPR3, MAPK9, GATA4, and PLAU). Compared with high-risk patients, better overall survival rates and clinicopathological characteristics were found in low-risk patients. The areas under the curve of the two cohorts were 0.885 and 0.718, respectively. Higher proportions of resting CD4+ memory T lymphocytes, M2 macrophages, and resting dendritic cells and lower proportions of follicular helper T lymphocytes, plasma cells, and neutrophils were found in the high-risk tumors. Moreover, the high-risk group showed higher expression of CD44 and TNFSF4, lower expression of PDCD1 and CD40, and higher TIDE scores, suggesting they may respond poorly to immunotherapy. High-risk patients responded better to chemotherapeutic agents such as docetaxel, doxorubicin, and gemcitabine. Furthermore, IRGs associated with tumor progression, including PDGFA, ITPR3, SLPI, TICAM1, and GATA4, were identified. Conclusion Our immune-related signature yielded reliable value in evaluating the prognosis, microenvironmental characteristics, and therapeutic sensitivity of EC and may help with the precise treatment of this patient population.
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Gupta G, Merhej G, Saravanan S, Chen H. Cancer resistance to immunotherapy: What is the role of cancer stem cells? CANCER DRUG RESISTANCE (ALHAMBRA, CALIF.) 2022; 5:981-994. [PMID: 36627890 PMCID: PMC9771758 DOI: 10.20517/cdr.2022.19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Immunotherapy is an emerging form of cancer therapy that is associated with promising outcomes. However, most cancer patients either do not respond to immunotherapy or develop resistance to treatment. The resistance to immunotherapy is poorly understood compared to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Since immunotherapy targets cells within the tumor microenvironment, understanding the behavior and interactions of different cells within that environment is essential to adequately understand both therapy options and therapy resistance. This review focuses on reviewing and analyzing the special features of cancer stem cells (CSCs), which we believe may contribute to cancer resistance to immunotherapy. The mechanisms are classified into three main categories: mechanisms related to surface markers which are differentially expressed on CSCs and help CSCs escape from immune surveillance and immune cells killing; mechanisms related to CSC-released cytokines which can recruit immune cells and tame hostile immune responses; and mechanisms related to CSC metabolites which modulate the activities of infiltrated immune cells in the tumor microenvironment. This review also discusses progress made in targeting CSCs with immunotherapy and the prospect of developing novel cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Hexin Chen
- Correspondence to: Dr. Hexin Chen, Department of Biological Science, University of South Carolina, 715 Sumter Street, PSC621, Columbia, SC 29205, USA. E-mail:
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14
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Manni W, Min W. Signaling pathways in the regulation of cancer stem cells and associated targeted therapy. MedComm (Beijing) 2022; 3:e176. [PMID: 36226253 PMCID: PMC9534377 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are defined as a subpopulation of malignant tumor cells with selective capacities for tumor initiation, self-renewal, metastasis, and unlimited growth into bulks, which are believed as a major cause of progressive tumor phenotypes, including recurrence, metastasis, and treatment failure. A number of signaling pathways are involved in the maintenance of stem cell properties and survival of CSCs, including well-established intrinsic pathways, such as the Notch, Wnt, and Hedgehog signaling, and extrinsic pathways, such as the vascular microenvironment and tumor-associated immune cells. There is also intricate crosstalk between these signal cascades and other oncogenic pathways. Thus, targeting pathway molecules that regulate CSCs provides a new option for the treatment of therapy-resistant or -refractory tumors. These treatments include small molecule inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies that target key signaling in CSCs, as well as CSC-directed immunotherapies that harness the immune systems to target CSCs. This review aims to provide an overview of the regulating networks and their immune interactions involved in CSC development. We also address the update on the development of CSC-directed therapeutics, with a special focus on those with application approval or under clinical evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wang Manni
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduP. R. China
| | - Wu Min
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine and Health SciencesUniversity of North DakotaGrand ForksNorth DakotaUSA
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15
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Eini L, Naseri M, Karimi-Busheri F, Bozorgmehr M, Ghods R, Madjd Z. Preventive cancer stem cell-based vaccination modulates tumor development in syngeneic colon adenocarcinoma murine model. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2022:10.1007/s00432-022-04303-8. [PMID: 36040667 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-022-04303-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer stem cells (CSCs), a rare sub-fraction of tumor cells, with the capability of self-renewal and strong oncogenicity are tightly responsible for chemo and radio resistance and tumor metastasis in colorectal cancer. Hence, CSCs targeting would improve the efficacy of therapeutic strategies and clinical outcomes. METHODS Here, using three-dimensional CSC spheroids and syngeneic mice model, we evaluated the cancer preventive impact of CSCs-based vaccination. CSCs enrichment was performed via colonosphere formation from CT-26 cell line and CT-26-derived tumor biopsy and characterized by confirming high expression of key stemness genes (OCT4, SOX2, and NANOG) and CSC-related surface biomarkers (CD166, DCLK1, and CD133) via real-time PCR and flow cytometry, respectively. Then, the stemness phenotype and self-renewal in CSC-enriched spheroids were further confirmed by showing serial sphere formation capacity, clonogenicity potential, and enhanced in vivo tumorigenic capacity compared to their parental counterparts. CSCs lysates were used as vaccines in prophylactic settings compared to the parental cell lysate and PBS groups. RESULT Immunization of syngeneic mice with CSCs lysates was effective in the prevention of tumor establishment and significantly decreased tumor growth rate accompanied by an improvement in survival rate in tumor-bearing mice compared to groups subjected to parental cells lysate and PBS. These results, for the first time, showed that mice immunized with cell lysate from tumor biopsy-derived spheroids are resistant to tumor induction. Immunofluorescence staining indicated that only the serum antibodies from CSC-vaccinated mice reacted with colonospheres. CONCLUSIONS These findings represent CSCs lysate-based vaccination as a potential approach to hampering immunotherapy failure of colorectal cancer which along with other traditional therapies may effectively apply to prevent the establishment of aggressive tumors harboring stemness features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Eini
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Division of Histology, Department of Basic Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Marzieh Naseri
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Developmental, Molecular and Chemical Biology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | | | - Mahmood Bozorgmehr
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Roya Ghods
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. .,Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Zahra Madjd
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. .,Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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16
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Parashar D, Singh A, Gupta S, Sharma A, Sharma MK, Roy KK, Chauhan SC, Kashyap VK. Emerging Roles and Potential Applications of Non-Coding RNAs in Cervical Cancer. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13071254. [PMID: 35886037 PMCID: PMC9317009 DOI: 10.3390/genes13071254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Cervical cancer (CC) is a preventable disease using proven interventions, specifically prophylactic vaccination, pervasive disease screening, and treatment, but it is still the most frequently diagnosed cancer in women worldwide. Patients with advanced or metastatic CC have a very dismal prognosis and current therapeutic options are very limited. Therefore, understanding the mechanism of metastasis and discovering new therapeutic targets are crucial. New sequencing tools have given a full visualization of the human transcriptome's composition. Non-coding RNAs (NcRNAs) perform various functions in transcriptional, translational, and post-translational processes through their interactions with proteins, RNA, and even DNA. It has been suggested that ncRNAs act as key regulators of a variety of biological processes, with their expression being tightly controlled under physiological settings. In recent years, and notably in the past decade, significant effort has been made to examine the role of ncRNAs in a variety of human diseases, including cancer. Therefore, shedding light on the functions of ncRNA will aid in our better understanding of CC. In this review, we summarize the emerging roles of ncRNAs in progression, metastasis, therapeutics, chemo-resistance, human papillomavirus (HPV) regulation, metabolic reprogramming, diagnosis, and as a prognostic biomarker of CC. We also discussed the role of ncRNA in the tumor microenvironment and tumor immunology, including cancer stem cells (CSCs) in CC. We also address contemporary technologies such as antisense oligonucleotides, CRISPR-Cas9, and exosomes, as well as their potential applications in targeting ncRNAs to manage CC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepak Parashar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, MI 53226, USA
- Correspondence: (D.P.); (V.K.K.); Tel.: +1-414-439-8089 (D.P.); +1-956-296-1738 (V.K.K.)
| | - Anupam Singh
- Department of Biotechnology, GLA University, Mathura 281406, Uttar Pradesh, India; (A.S.); (S.G.)
| | - Saurabh Gupta
- Department of Biotechnology, GLA University, Mathura 281406, Uttar Pradesh, India; (A.S.); (S.G.)
| | - Aishwarya Sharma
- Sri Siddhartha Medical College and Research Center, Tumkur 572107, Karnataka, India;
| | - Manish K. Sharma
- Department of Biotechnology, IP College, Bulandshahr 203001, Uttar Pradesh, India;
| | - Kuldeep K. Roy
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Health Sciences and Technology, UPES, Dehradun 248007, Uttarakhand, India;
| | - Subhash C. Chauhan
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX 78504, USA;
- South Texas Center of Excellence in Cancer Research, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX 78504, USA
| | - Vivek K. Kashyap
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX 78504, USA;
- South Texas Center of Excellence in Cancer Research, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX 78504, USA
- Correspondence: (D.P.); (V.K.K.); Tel.: +1-414-439-8089 (D.P.); +1-956-296-1738 (V.K.K.)
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17
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Sitta J, Claudio PP, Howard CM. Virus-Based Immuno-Oncology Models. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10061441. [PMID: 35740462 PMCID: PMC9220907 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10061441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 06/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has been extensively explored in recent years with encouraging results in selected types of cancer. Such success aroused interest in the expansion of such indications, requiring a deep understanding of the complex role of the immune system in carcinogenesis. The definition of hot vs. cold tumors and the role of the tumor microenvironment enlightened the once obscure understanding of low response rates of solid tumors to immune check point inhibitors. Although the major scope found in the literature focuses on the T cell modulation, the innate immune system is also a promising oncolytic tool. The unveiling of the tumor immunosuppressive pathways, lead to the development of combined targeted therapies in an attempt to increase immune infiltration capability. Oncolytic viruses have been explored in different scenarios, in combination with various chemotherapeutic drugs and, more recently, with immune check point inhibitors. Moreover, oncolytic viruses may be engineered to express tumor specific pro-inflammatory cytokines, antibodies, and antigens to enhance immunologic response or block immunosuppressive mechanisms. Development of preclinical models capable to replicate the human immunologic response is one of the major challenges faced by these studies. A thorough understanding of immunotherapy and oncolytic viruses’ mechanics is paramount to develop reliable preclinical models with higher chances of successful clinical therapy application. Thus, in this article, we review current concepts in cancer immunotherapy including the inherent and synthetic mechanisms of immunologic enhancement utilizing oncolytic viruses, immune targeting, and available preclinical animal models, their advantages, and limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Sitta
- Department of Radiology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS 39216, USA;
| | - Pier Paolo Claudio
- Department of BioMolecular Sciences, Department of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Center & Research Institute, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS 39216, USA;
| | - Candace M. Howard
- Department of Radiology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS 39216, USA;
- Correspondence:
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18
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Wu L, Sun S, Qu F, Liu X, Sun M, Pan Y, Zheng Y, Su G. ASCL2 Affects the Efficacy of Immunotherapy in Colon Adenocarcinoma Based on Single-Cell RNA Sequencing Analysis. Front Immunol 2022; 13:829640. [PMID: 35774798 PMCID: PMC9237783 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.829640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Colon adenocarcinoma (COAD) is one of the leading causes of cancer-associated deaths worldwide. Patients with microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) tumors were shown to highly benefit from immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) than patients with microsatellite stable (MSS) tumors. Furthermore, the infiltration of immune cells and the expression of cancer stem cells (CSCs) in COAD were associated with the anti-tumor immune response. However, the potential mechanisms showing the relationship between microsatellite instability and CSCs or tumor-infiltrating immune cells (TIICs) have not been elucidated. Accumulating evidence reveals that achaete-scute family bHLH transcription factor 2 (ASCL2) plays a crucial role in the initiation and progression of COAD and drug resistance. However, the specific biological functions of ASCL2 in COAD remain unknown. In this study, we performed weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) between MSS and MSI-H subsets of COAD. The results revealed that ASCL2 was a potential key candidate in COAD. Subsequently, the single-cell RNA-seq revealed that ASCL2 was positively associated with CSCs. Further, ASCL2 was shown to indirectly affect tumor immune cell infiltration by negatively regulating the expression of DUSP4. Finally, we inferred that the immunotherapy-sensitive role of ASCL2/DUSP4 axis on COAD is partly attributed to the activation of WNT/β-catenin pathway. In conclusion, this study revealed that ASCL2 was positively correlated to CSCs and tumor immune infiltration in COAD. Therefore, ASCL2 is a promising predictor of clinical responsiveness to anti-PD-1/PD-L1 therapy in COAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Wu
- Research Center of Translational Medicine, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
- Research Center of Translational Medicine, Jinan Central Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Department of Oncology, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Shengnan Sun
- Research Center of Translational Medicine, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
- Research Center of Translational Medicine, Jinan Central Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Fei Qu
- Department of Pathology, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Xiuxiu Liu
- Research Center of Translational Medicine, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
- Research Center of Translational Medicine, Jinan Central Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Meili Sun
- Department of Oncology, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Zhuhai, China
| | - Ying Pan
- Department of Oncology, Zhuhai People’s Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated With Jinan University), Zhuhai, China
| | - Yan Zheng
- Research Center of Translational Medicine, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
- *Correspondence: Yan Zheng, ; Guohai Su,
| | - Guohai Su
- Research Center of Translational Medicine, Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
- Research Center of Translational Medicine, Jinan Central Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- *Correspondence: Yan Zheng, ; Guohai Su,
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19
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Singh D, Khan MA, Siddique HR. Specific targeting of cancer stem cells by immunotherapy: A possible stratagem to restrain cancer recurrence and metastasis. Biochem Pharmacol 2022; 198:114955. [PMID: 35181312 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2022.114955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs), the tumor-initiating cells playing a crucial role in cancer progression, recurrence, and metastasis, have the intrinsic property of self-renewal and therapy resistance. The tumorigenic properties of these cells include generation of cellular heterogeneity and immuno-suppressive tumor microenvironment (TME), conferring them the capability to resist a variety of anti-cancer therapeutics. Further, CSCs possess several unique immunological properties that help them escape recognition by the innate and adaptive immune system and shape a TME into a pro-tumorigenic and immunosuppressive landscape. In this context, immunotherapy is considered one of the best therapeutic options for eliminating CSCs to halt cancer recurrence and metastasis. In this review, we discuss the various immunomodulatory properties of CSCs and the interaction of CSCs with the immune system enabling immune evasion. In addition, we also highlight the present research update on immunotherapeutic targeting of CSCs and the possible further scope of research on this topic. We believe that a deeper understanding of CSCs' immunological properties and the crosstalk between CSCs and the immune system can develop better innovative immune-therapeutics and enhance the efficacy of current therapy-resistant cancer treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepti Singh
- Molecular Cancer Genetics & Translational Research Lab, Section of Genetics, Department of Zoology, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh 202002, India
| | - Mohammad Afsar Khan
- Molecular Cancer Genetics & Translational Research Lab, Section of Genetics, Department of Zoology, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh 202002, India
| | - Hifzur R Siddique
- Molecular Cancer Genetics & Translational Research Lab, Section of Genetics, Department of Zoology, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh 202002, India.
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20
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Correia MP, Stojanovic A, Wels WS, Cerwenka A. Innate-like NKp30 +CD8 + T cells armed with TCR/CAR target tumor heterogeneity. Oncoimmunology 2022; 10:1973783. [PMID: 35036073 PMCID: PMC8758178 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2021.1973783] [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] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Intratumoral heterogeneity is frequently associated with tumor immune escape, with MHC-class I and antigen expression loss rendering tumor cells invisible to T cell killing, representing a major challenge for the design of successful adoptive transfer protocols for cancer immunotherapy. While CD8+ T cell recognition of tumor cells is based on the detection of MHC-peptide complexes via specific T cell receptors (TCRs), Natural Killer (NK) cells detect tumor-associated NK ligands by an array of NK receptors. We have recently identified a population of innate-like CD8+ T cells marked by the expression of NKp30, a potent natural cytotoxicity activating NK receptor, whose tumor ligand, B7H6, is frequently upregulated on several cancer types. Here, we harnessed the dual-recognition potential of NKp30+CD8+ T cells, by arming these cells with TCRs or chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) targeting Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2 (ErbB2, or HER2), a tumor-associated target overexpressed in several malignancies. HER2-specific NKp30+CD8+ T cells killed not only HER2-expressing target cell lines, but also eliminated tumor cells in the absence of MHC-class I or antigen expression, making them especially effective in eliminating heterogeneous tumor cell populations. Our results show that NKp30+CD8+ T cells equipped with a specific TCR or CAR display a dual capacity to recognize and kill target cells, combining the anti-tumor activity of both CD8+ T and NK cells. This dual-recognition capacity allows these effector cells to target tumor heterogeneity, thus improving therapeutic strategies against tumor escape.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margareta P Correia
- Department of Immunobiochemistry, Mannheim Institute for Innate Immunosciences (MI3), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany.,Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (Porto.CCC), Porto, Portugal.,Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, School of Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Porto, Portugal
| | - Ana Stojanovic
- Department of Immunobiochemistry, Mannheim Institute for Innate Immunosciences (MI3), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Winfried S Wels
- Georg-Speyer-Haus, Institute for Tumor Biology and Experimental Therapy, Frankfurt, Germany.,Frankfurt Cancer Institute, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany.,German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Frankfurt/Mainz, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Adelheid Cerwenka
- Department of Immunobiochemistry, Mannheim Institute for Innate Immunosciences (MI3), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany.,European Center for Angioscience (ECAS), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
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21
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Zhang TT, Chen HP, Yu SY, Zhao SP. LncRNA HOXC-AS3 overexpression inhibits TGF-β2-induced colorectal cancer cell migration and invasion by sponging miR-1269. Hum Exp Toxicol 2022; 41:9603271221093630. [PMID: 35537198 DOI: 10.1177/09603271221093630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) HOXC-AS3 has been characterized as a cancer-related lncRNA in many types of cancer, while its role in colorectal cancer (CRC) is unknown. METHODS The expression of HOXC-AS3 and TGF-β2 were detected by RT-qPCR. Overexpression assays were performed to explore the interaction between HOXC-AS3 and TGF-β2. A follow-up study was performed to explore the prognostic value of HOXC-AS3 for CRC. The direct interaction between HOXC-AS3 and miR-1269 was assessed with RNA-RNA pulldown assay. Transwell assays were performed to determine the role of HOXC-AS3 and TGF-β2 in regulating CRC cell invasion and migration. RESULTS HOXC-AS3 was significantly downregulated in CRC tissues, while TGF-β2 was significantly upregulated in CRC tissues compared to that in adjacent non-cancer tissues of CRC patients. The follow-up study showed that low expression levels of HOXC-AS3 in CRC tissues were closely correlated with poor survival. Correlation analysis showed that HOXC-AS3 and TGF-β2 were inversely correlated across CRC tissues but not non-cancer tissues. Overexpression of HOXC-AS3 in the two cell lines resulted in downregulation of TGF-β2, while the expression of HOXC-AS3 was not affected by TGF-β2. Transwell migration and invasion assay showed that overexpression of TGF-β2 increased cell invasion and migration, while overexpression of HOXC-AS3 decreased cell migration and invasion. In addition, overexpression of HOXC-AS3 attenuated the effects of overexpression of TGF-β2. MiR-1269 increased the expression of TGF-β2. HOXC-AS3 directly interacted with miR-1269 in CRC cells. CONCLUSIONS Upregulation of HOXC-AS3 inhibited TGF-β2-induced colorectal cancer (CRC) cell migration and invasion possibly by sponging miR-1269.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong-Tong Zhang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, 74725The Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang City, Hebei Province, China
| | - Hai-Peng Chen
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, 70317National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Beijing City, China
| | - Su-Yang Yu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, 74725The Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang City, Hebei Province, China
| | - Shi-Peng Zhao
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, 74725The Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang City, Hebei Province, China
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22
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Passeri G, Northcote-Smith J, Suntharalingam K. Delivery of an immunogenic cell death-inducing copper complex to cancer stem cells using polymeric nanoparticles. RSC Adv 2022; 12:5290-5299. [PMID: 35425564 PMCID: PMC8981415 DOI: 10.1039/d1ra08788f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The major cause for cancer related deaths worldwide is tumour relapse and metastasis, both of which have been heavily linked to the existence of cancer stem cells (CSCs). CSCs are able to escape current treatment regimens, reform tumours, and promote their spread to secondary sites. Recently, our research group reported the first metal-based agent 1 (a copper(ii) compound ligated by a bidentate 4,7-diphenyl-1,10-phenanthroline and a tridentate Schiff base ligand) to potently kill CSCs via cytotoxic and immunogenic mechanisms. Here we show that encapsulation of 1 by polymeric nanoparticles at the appropriate feed (10%, 1 NP10) enhances CSC uptake and improves potency towards bulk cancer cells and CSCs (grown in monolayer and three-dimensional cultures). The nanoparticle formulation triggers a similar cellular response to the payload, which bodes well for further translation. Specifically, the nanoparticle formulation elevates intracellular reactive oxygen species levels, induces ER stress, and evokes damage-associated molecular patterns consistent with immunogenic cell death. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to demonstrate that polymeric nanoparticles can be used to effectively deliver immunogenic metal complexes into CSCs. In this study we deliver an immunogenic cell death-inducing copper(ii) complex, comprising of 4,7-diphenyl-1,10-phenanthroline and a Schiff base ligand, to breast cancer stem cells.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Ginevra Passeri
- School of Chemistry, University of Leicester, Leicester, LE1 7RH, UK
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23
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Shokouhifar A, Firouzi J, Nouri M, Sarab GA, Ebrahimi M. NK cell upraise in the dark world of cancer stem cells. Cancer Cell Int 2021; 21:682. [PMID: 34923966 PMCID: PMC8684645 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-021-02400-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the obstacles in treating different cancers, especially solid tumors, is cancer stem cells (CSCs) with their ability in resistance to chemo/radio therapy. The efforts for finding advanced treatments to overcome these cells have led to the emergence of advanced immune cell-based therapy (AICBT). Today, NK cells have become the center of attention since they have been proved to show an appropriate cytotoxicity against different cancer types as well as the capability of detecting and killing CSCs. Attempts for reaching an off-the-shelf source of NK cells have been made and resulted in the emergence of chimeric antigen receptor natural killer cells (CAR-NK cells). The CAR technology has then been used for generating more cytotoxic and efficient NK cells, which has increased the hope for cancer treatment. Since utilizing this advanced technology to target CSCs have been published in few studies, the present study has focused on discussing the characteristics of CSCs, which are detected and targeted by NK cells, the advantages and restrictions of using CAR-NK cells in CSCs treatment and the probable challenges in this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alireza Shokouhifar
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Genomic Research Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran.,Cellular & Molecular Research Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran.,Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, 16635-148, Tehran, Iran
| | - Javad Firouzi
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, 16635-148, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Tissue Engineering & Regenerative Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Masoumeh Nouri
- R&D Department, Royan Stem Cell Technology Co., Tehran, Iran
| | - Gholamreza Anani Sarab
- Cellular & Molecular Research Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran.
| | - Marzieh Ebrahimi
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, 16635-148, Tehran, Iran. .,Department of Regenerative Medicine, Cell Science Research Centre, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, 14155-4364, Tehran, Iran.
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HIF-1-regulated expression of calreticulin promotes breast tumorigenesis and progression through Wnt/β-catenin pathway activation. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:2109144118. [PMID: 34706936 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2109144118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Calreticulin (CALR) is a multifunctional protein that participates in various cellular processes, which include calcium homeostasis, cell adhesion, protein folding, and cancer progression. However, the role of CALR in breast cancer (BC) is unclear. Here, we report that CALR is overexpressed in BC compared with normal tissue, and its expression is correlated with patient mortality and stemness indices. CALR expression was increased in mammosphere cultures, CD24-CD44+ cells, and aldehyde dehydrogenase-expressing cells, which are enriched for breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs). Additionally, CALR knockdown led to BCSC depletion, which impaired tumor initiation and metastasis and enhanced chemosensitivity in vivo. Chromatin immunoprecipitation and reporter assays revealed that hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF-1) directly activated CALR transcription in hypoxic BC cells. CALR expression was correlated with Wnt/β-catenin pathway activation, and an activator of Wnt/β-catenin signaling abrogated the inhibitory effect of CALR knockdown on mammosphere formation. Taken together, our results demonstrate that CALR facilitates BC progression by promoting the BCSC phenotype through Wnt/β-catenin signaling in an HIF-1-dependent manner and suggest that CALR may represent a target for BC therapy.
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Abstract
Carbohydrates are the most abundant and one of the most important biomacromolecules in Nature. Except for energy-related compounds, carbohydrates can be roughly divided into two categories: Carbohydrates as matter and carbohydrates as information. As matter, carbohydrates are abundantly present in the extracellular matrix of animals and cell walls of various plants, bacteria, fungi, etc., serving as scaffolds. Some commonly found polysaccharides are featured as biocompatible materials with controllable rigidity and functionality, forming polymeric biomaterials which are widely used in drug delivery, tissue engineering, etc. As information, carbohydrates are usually referred to the glycans from glycoproteins, glycolipids, and proteoglycans, which bind to proteins or other carbohydrates, thereby meditating the cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions. These glycans could be simplified as synthetic glycopolymers, glycolipids, and glycoproteins, which could be afforded through polymerization, multistep synthesis, or a semisynthetic strategy. The information role of carbohydrates can be demonstrated not only as targeting reagents but also as immune antigens and adjuvants. The latter are also included in this review as they are always in a macromolecular formulation. In this review, we intend to provide a relatively comprehensive summary of carbohydrate-based macromolecular biomaterials since 2010 while emphasizing the fundamental understanding to guide the rational design of biomaterials. Carbohydrate-based macromolecules on the basis of their resources and chemical structures will be discussed, including naturally occurring polysaccharides, naturally derived synthetic polysaccharides, glycopolymers/glycodendrimers, supramolecular glycopolymers, and synthetic glycolipids/glycoproteins. Multiscale structure-function relationships in several major application areas, including delivery systems, tissue engineering, and immunology, will be detailed. We hope this review will provide valuable information for the development of carbohydrate-based macromolecular biomaterials and build a bridge between the carbohydrates as matter and the carbohydrates as information to promote new biomaterial design in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Su
- The State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers and Department of Macromolecular Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China.,Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Laboratory of Macromolecular and Organic Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven 5600, The Netherlands
| | - Yingle Feng
- The State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers and Department of Macromolecular Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China.,Key Laboratory of Applied Surface and Colloid Chemistry, Ministry of Education and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710119, P. R. China
| | - Kongchang Wei
- Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Department of Materials meet Life, Laboratory for Biomimetic Membranes and Textiles, Lerchenfeldstrasse 5, St. Gallen 9014, Switzerland
| | - Xuyang Xu
- The State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers and Department of Macromolecular Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Rongying Liu
- The State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers and Department of Macromolecular Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Guosong Chen
- The State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers and Department of Macromolecular Science, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China.,Multiscale Research Institute of Complex Systems, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
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26
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Lei MML, Lee TKW. Cancer Stem Cells: Emerging Key Players in Immune Evasion of Cancers. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:692940. [PMID: 34235155 PMCID: PMC8257022 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.692940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are subpopulations of undifferentiated cancer cells within the tumor bulk that are responsible for tumor initiation, recurrence and therapeutic resistance. The enhanced ability of CSCs to give rise to new tumors suggests potential roles of these cells in the evasion of immune surveillance. A growing body of evidence has described the interplay between CSCs and immune cells within the tumor microenvironment (TME). Recent data have shown the pivotal role of some major immune cells in driving the expansion of CSCs, which concurrently elicit evasion of the detection and destruction of various immune cells through a number of distinct mechanisms. Here, we will discuss the role of immune cells in driving the stemness of cancer cells and provide evidence of how CSCs evade immune surveillance by exerting their effects on tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), dendritic cells (DCs), myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), T-regulatory (Treg) cells, natural killer (NK) cells, and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs). The knowledge gained from the interaction between CSCs and various immune cells will provide insight into the mechanisms by which tumors evade immune surveillance. In conclusion, CSC-targeted immunotherapy emerges as a novel immunotherapy strategy against cancer by disrupting the interaction between immune cells and CSCs in the TME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Mang Leng Lei
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Terence Kin Wah Lee
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong.,State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
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27
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Giussani P, Prinetti A, Tringali C. The Role of Sphingolipids in Cancer Immunotherapy. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22126492. [PMID: 34204326 PMCID: PMC8234743 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22126492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Revised: 06/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy is now considered an innovative and strong strategy to beat metastatic, drug-resistant, or relapsing tumours. It is based on the manipulation of several mechanisms involved in the complex interplay between cancer cells and immune system that culminates in a form of immune-tolerance of tumour cells, favouring their expansion. Current immunotherapies are devoted enforcing the immune response against cancer cells and are represented by approaches employing vaccines, monoclonal antibodies, interleukins, checkpoint inhibitors, and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells. Despite the undoubted potency of these treatments in some malignancies, many issues are being investigated to amplify the potential of application and to avoid side effects. In this review, we discuss how sphingolipids are involved in interactions between cancer cells and the immune system and how knowledge in this topic could be employed to enhance the efficacy of different immunotherapy approaches. In particular, we explore the following aspects: how sphingolipids are pivotal components of plasma membranes and could modulate the functionality of surface receptors expressed also by immune cells and thus their functionality; how sphingolipids are related to the release of bioactive mediators, sphingosine 1-phosphate, and ceramide that could significantly affect lymphocyte egress and migration toward the tumour milieu, in addition regulating key pathways needed to activate immune cells; given the renowned capability of altering sphingolipid expression and metabolism shown by cancer cells, how it is possible to employ sphingolipids as antigen targets.
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Kansy B, Aderhold C, Huber L, Ludwig S, Birk R, Lammert A, Lang S, Rotter N, Kramer B. Expression Patterns of CD44 and AREG Under Treatment With Selective Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors in HPV + and HPV - Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Cancer Genomics Proteomics 2021; 17:579-585. [PMID: 32859636 DOI: 10.21873/cgp.20214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Revised: 06/07/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We investigated the expression patterns of cluster of differentiation (CD) 44 and amphiregulin (AREG), two signaling molecules essential for cell proliferation and differentiation, under the influence of selective tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) in human papillomavirus (HPV)+ and HPV- squamous carcinoma cell lines. MATERIALS AND METHODS The protein expression of CD44 and AREG was determined by sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in HPV- cell lines UMSCC-11A and UMSCC-14C, and HPV+ CERV-196 cells after TKI treatment. RESULTS The expression of AREG and CD44 was dependent on the cell line's HPV status. AREG expression increased after incubation with nilotinib in HPV+ tumor cells. The expression of CD44 was significantly influenced by all drugs; its expression under selective epidermal growth factor receptor inhibition was mostly reduced, whereas nilotinib led to an exceptional increase of CD44 expression. CONCLUSION The selective drug treatment options significantly influenced the expression of CD44 and AREG in HPV- and HPV+ tumor cells, constituting the need for personalized treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Kansy
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Christoph Aderhold
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospital Mannheim, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Lena Huber
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospital Mannheim, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Sonja Ludwig
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospital Mannheim, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Richard Birk
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospital Mannheim, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.,Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospital Marburg, University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Anne Lammert
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospital Mannheim, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Stephan Lang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Nicole Rotter
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospital Mannheim, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Benedikt Kramer
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, University Hospital Mannheim, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
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Naseri M, Zöller M, Hadjati J, Ghods R, Ranaei Pirmardan E, Kiani J, Eini L, Bozorgmehr M, Madjd Z. Dendritic cells loaded with exosomes derived from cancer stem cell-enriched spheroids as a potential immunotherapeutic option. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 25:3312-3326. [PMID: 33634564 PMCID: PMC8034455 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.16401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are responsible for therapeutic resistance and recurrence in colorectal cancer. Despite advances in immunotherapy, the inability to specifically eradicate CSCs has led to treatment failure. Hence, identification of appropriate antigen sources is a major challenge in designing dendritic cell (DC)‐based therapeutic strategies against CSCs. Here, in an in vitro model using the HT‐29 colon cancer cell line, we explored the efficacy of DCs loaded with exosomes derived from CSC‐enriched colonospheres (CSCenr‐EXOs) as an antigen source in activating CSC‐specific T‐cell responses. HT‐29 lysate, HT‐29‐EXOs and CSCenr lysate were independently assessed as separate antigen sources. Having confirmed CSCs enrichment in spheroids, CSCenr‐EXOs were purified and characterized, and their impact on DC maturation was investigated. Finally, the impact of the antigen‐pulsed DCs on the proliferation rate and also spheroid destructive capacity of autologous T cells was assessed. CSCenr‐EXOs similar to other antigen groups had no suppressive/negative impacts on phenotypic maturation of DCs as judged by the expression level of costimulatory molecules. Notably, similar to CSCenr lysate, CSCenr‐EXOs significantly increased the IL‐12/IL‐10 ratio in supernatants of mature DCs. CSCenr‐EXO‐loaded DCs effectively promoted T‐cell proliferation. Importantly, T cells stimulated with CSCenr‐EXOs disrupted spheroids' structure. Thus, CSCenr‐EXOs present a novel and promising antigen source that in combination with conventional tumour bulk‐derived antigens should be further explored in pre‐clinical immunotherapeutic settings for the efficacy in hampering recurrence and metastatic spread.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzieh Naseri
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran.,Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Margot Zöller
- Section Pancreas Research, University Hospital of Surgery, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jamshid Hadjati
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Roya Ghods
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran.,Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Ehsan Ranaei Pirmardan
- Department of Radiology, Molecular Biomarkers Nano-imaging Laboratory, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jafar Kiani
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran.,Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Eini
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran.,Department of Basic Science, Faculty of Veterinary, Science and Research Branch of Islamic, Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahmood Bozorgmehr
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Madjd
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran.,Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
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Wang L, Liu W, Liu J, Wang Y, Tai J, Yin X, Tan J. Identification of Immune-Related Therapeutically Relevant Biomarkers in Breast Cancer and Breast Cancer Stem Cells by Transcriptome-Wide Analysis: A Clinical Prospective Study. Front Oncol 2021; 10:554138. [PMID: 33718103 PMCID: PMC7945036 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.554138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) represent a subset of tumor cells that are responsible for recurrence and metastasis of tumors. These cells are resistant to radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Immunotherapeutic strategies that target CSCs specifically have provided initial results; however, the mechanism of action of these strategies is unclear. The data were requested from The Cancer Genome Atlas and Genotype-Tissue Expression, followed with the survival analysis and weighted gene co-expression network analysis to detect survival and stemness related genes. Patients were divided into three groups based on their immune status by applying single sample GSEA (ssGSEA) with proven dependability by ESTIMATE analysis. The filtered key genes were analyzed using oncomine, GEPIA, HPA, qRT-PCR, and functional analysis. Patients in a group with a higher stemness and a lower immune infiltration showed a worse overall survival probability, stemness and immune infiltration characteristics of breast cancer progressed in a non-linear fashion. Thirteen key genes related to stemness and immunity were identified and the functional analysis indicated their crucial roles in cell proliferation and immune escape strategies. The qRT-PCR results showed that the expression of PIMREG and MTFR2 differed in different stages of patients. Our study revealed a promising potential for CSC-target immunotherapy in the early stage of cancer and a probable value for PIMREG and MTFR2 as biomarkers and targets for immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linbang Wang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jingkun Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yuanyuan Wang
- Department of Endocrine and Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jiaojiao Tai
- Department of Orthopedics, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xuedong Yin
- Department of Endocrine and Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jinxiang Tan
- Department of Endocrine and Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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31
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Du L, Cheng Q, Zheng H, Liu J, Liu L, Chen Q. Targeting stemness of cancer stem cells to fight colorectal cancers. Semin Cancer Biol 2021; 82:150-161. [PMID: 33631296 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2021.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Revised: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Cancer initiating/ stem cells (CSCs) undergo self-renewal and differentiation that contributes to tumor initiation, recurrence and metastasis in colorectal cancer (CRC). Targeting of colorectal cancer stem cells (CCSCs) holds significant promise in eradicating cancer cells and ultimately curing patients with cancer. In this review, we will introduce the current progress of CCSC studies, including the specific surface markers of CCSCs, the intrinsic signaling pathways that regulate the stemness and differentiation characteristics of CCSCs, and the tumor organoid model for CCSC research. We will focus on how these studies will lead to the progress in targeting specific surface markers or signaling pathways on CCSCs by monoclonal antibodies, or by natural or synthetic compounds, or by immunotherapy. As CSCs are highly heterogeneous and plastic, we suggest that combinatory approaches that target the stemness network may represent an important strategy for eradicating cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Du
- The State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China; Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine. Beijing, 100101, China.
| | - Qi Cheng
- The State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China; The Graduate University of Chinese Academy of Sciences. Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Hao Zheng
- The State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China; The State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Jinming Liu
- The State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Lei Liu
- The State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China; Beijing Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine. Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Quan Chen
- The State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China.
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32
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Dong B, Li S, Zhu S, Yi M, Luo S, Wu K. MiRNA-mediated EMT and CSCs in cancer chemoresistance. Exp Hematol Oncol 2021; 10:12. [PMID: 33579377 PMCID: PMC7881653 DOI: 10.1186/s40164-021-00206-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a small group of cancer cells, which contribute to tumorigenesis and cancer progression. Cancer cells undergoing epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) acquire the chemoresistant ability, which is regarded as an important feature of CSCs. Thus, there emerges an opinion that the generation of CSCs is considered to be driven by EMT. In this complex process, microRNAs (miRNAs) are found to play a key role. In order to overcome the drug resistance, inhibiting EMT as well as CSCs phenotype seem feasible. Thereinto, regulating the EMT- or CSCs-associated miRNAs is a crucial approach. Herein, we conduct this review to elaborate on the complicated interplay between EMT and CSCs in cancer chemoresistance, which is modulated by miRNAs. In addition, we elucidate the therapeutic strategy to overcome drug resistance through targeting EMT and CSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing Dong
- Department of Molecular Pathology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, 450008 China
| | - Shiyu Li
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030 China
| | - Shuangli Zhu
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030 China
| | - Ming Yi
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030 China
| | - Suxia Luo
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, 450008 China
| | - Kongming Wu
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030 China
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, 450008 China
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Rossi F, Noren H, Jove R, Beljanski V, Grinnemo KH. Differences and similarities between cancer and somatic stem cells: therapeutic implications. Stem Cell Res Ther 2020; 11:489. [PMID: 33208173 PMCID: PMC7672862 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-020-02018-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the last decades, the cancer survival rate has increased due to personalized therapies, the discovery of targeted therapeutics and novel biological agents, and the application of palliative treatments. Despite these advances, tumor resistance to chemotherapy and radiation and rapid progression to metastatic disease are still seen in many patients. Evidence has shown that cancer stem cells (CSCs), a sub-population of cells that share many common characteristics with somatic stem cells (SSCs), contribute to this therapeutic failure. The most critical properties of CSCs are their self-renewal ability and their capacity for differentiation into heterogeneous populations of cancer cells. Although CSCs only constitute a low percentage of the total tumor mass, these cells can regrow the tumor mass on their own. Initially identified in leukemia, CSCs have subsequently been found in cancers of the breast, the colon, the pancreas, and the brain. Common genetic and phenotypic features found in both SSCs and CSCs, including upregulated signaling pathways such as Notch, Wnt, Hedgehog, and TGF-β. These pathways play fundamental roles in the development as well as in the control of cell survival and cell fate and are relevant to therapeutic targeting of CSCs. The differences in the expression of membrane proteins and exosome-delivered microRNAs between SSCs and CSCs are also important to specifically target the stem cells of the cancer. Further research efforts should be directed toward elucidation of the fundamental differences between SSCs and CSCs to improve existing therapies and generate new clinically relevant cancer treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiorella Rossi
- NSU Cell Therapy Institute, Nova Southeastern University, 3301 College Ave, 3200 South University Drive, Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33328, USA
| | - Hunter Noren
- NSU Cell Therapy Institute, Nova Southeastern University, 3301 College Ave, 3200 South University Drive, Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33328, USA
| | - Richard Jove
- NSU Cell Therapy Institute, Nova Southeastern University, 3301 College Ave, 3200 South University Drive, Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33328, USA
| | - Vladimir Beljanski
- NSU Cell Therapy Institute, Nova Southeastern University, 3301 College Ave, 3200 South University Drive, Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33328, USA.
| | - Karl-Henrik Grinnemo
- NSU Cell Therapy Institute, Nova Southeastern University, 3301 College Ave, 3200 South University Drive, Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33328, USA. .,Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden. .,Department of Surgical Sciences, Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery and Anaesthesiology, Uppsala University, Akademiska University Hospital, Akademiska sjukhuset, ingång 50, 4 tr, 751 85, Uppsala, Sweden.
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Kaur P, Johnson A, Northcote-Smith J, Lu C, Suntharalingam K. Immunogenic Cell Death of Breast Cancer Stem Cells Induced by an Endoplasmic Reticulum-Targeting Copper(II) Complex. Chembiochem 2020; 21:3618-3624. [PMID: 32776422 PMCID: PMC7757018 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202000553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Immunogenic cell death (ICD) offers a method of stimulating the immune system to attack and remove cancer cells. We report a copper(II) complex containing a Schiff base ligand and a polypyridyl ligand, 4, capable of inducing ICD in breast cancer stem cells (CSCs). Complex 4 kills both bulk breast cancer cells and breast CSCs at sub‐micromolar concentrations. Notably, 4 exhibits greater potency (one order of magnitude) towards breast CSCs than salinomycin (an established breast CSC‐potent agent) and cisplatin (a clinically approved anticancer drug). Epithelial spheroid studies show that 4 is able to selectively inhibit breast CSC‐enriched HMLER‐shEcad spheroid formation and viability over non‐tumorigenic breast MCF10 A spheroids. Mechanistic studies show that 4 operates as a Type II ICD inducer. Specifically, 4 readily enters the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) of breast CSCs, elevates intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, induces ER stress, evokes damage‐associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), and promotes breast CSC phagocytosis by macrophages. As far as we are aware, 4 is the first metal complex to induce ICD in breast CSCs and promote their engulfment by immune cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pooja Kaur
- Department of Immunology and Inflammation, Imperial College London The Hammersmith Hospital, Du Cane Road, London, W12 0NN, UK
| | - Alice Johnson
- School of Chemistry, University of Leicester, University Road, Leicester, LE1 7RH, UK
| | | | - Chunxin Lu
- College of Biological, Chemical Sciences and Engineering, Jiaxing University, 56 South Yuexiu Road, Jiaxing, 314001 Zhejiang, P. R. China
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Cancer stem cells and ceramide signaling: the cutting edges of immunotherapy. Mol Biol Rep 2020; 47:8101-8111. [PMID: 32885363 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-020-05790-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The multipotent, self renewing "cancer stem cells" (CSCs), a small population within tumor microenvironment facilitates transformed cells to grow and propagate within the body. The CSCs are discovered as resistant to the chemotherapeutic drug with distinct immunological characteristics. In recent years, immunologically targeting CSCs have emerged as an integral part of effective and successful cancer therapy. CSCs notably exhibit dysregulation in conventional sub-cellular sphingolipid metabolism. Recently, ceramide decaying enzymes have been shown to activate alternative ceramide signaling pathways leading to reduction in efficacy of the chemotherapeutic drugs. Therefore, a control over ceramide mediated modulations of CSCs offers an attractive dimension of effective cancer treatment strategy in future. In this review, we focused on the recent findings on broad spectrum of ceramide mediated signaling in CSCs within the tumor niche and their role in potential cancer immunotherapy.
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Yi L, Huang P, Zou X, Guo L, Gu Y, Wen C, Wu G. Integrative stemness characteristics associated with prognosis and the immune microenvironment in esophageal cancer. Pharmacol Res 2020; 161:105144. [PMID: 32810627 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.105144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2020] [Revised: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer stem cells (CSCs) induces tumor metastasis and recurrence. However, the role of CSCs in molding the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) is largely inexplicit. This study aimed to comprehensively characterize the stemness of esophageal cancer (EC) and correlate the stemness patterns with TIME. METHODS A trained stemness index model was used to score EC patients based on the one-class logistic regression (OCLR) machine-learning algorithm. Gene expression-based stemness index (mRNAsi) and DNA methylation-based stemness index (mDNAsi) were calculated for integrative analyses of EC stemness in the training cohort (n = 182) and validation cohort (n = 179). Intrinsic stemness patterns were estimated to determine its association with clinical features, biological pathways, prognosis, and potential inhibitors. Additionally, the dynamic interplay between EC stemness and TIME was integrally characterized. RESULTS Analyses of EC stemness and clinical characteristics indicated that higher-stage and metastatic tumors featured more dedifferentiated phenotypically. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses revealed that mRNAsi was significantly associated with overall survival (OS) of EC patients, whereas no relationship was observed between mDNAsi and OS. Notably, prolonged OS was observed with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) in low versus high mRNAsi groups, whereas the OS was equivalent between the two groups for esophageal adenocarcinoma (ESAD). The mRNAsi may thus recapitulate prognostic molecular subgroups of EC. The prognostic model comprising 14 stemness signatures was constructed using combined Cox and Lasso regression analyses which effectively distinguished individual survival of ESCC in two cohorts. Nevertheless, no significant differences in OS was observed when the same prognostic model of ESCC was applied to ESAD. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) of selected stemness signatures indicated that ESCC stemness is involved in immune-related pathways. Furthermore, ESCC stemness and stemness-related signatures were associated with tumor-infiltrating immune cells, immunoscore, and PD-L1 expression. Compounds specific to the selected stemness signatures were detected using the CMap database. CONCLUSION This study determined integrated characteristics of EC stemness. The identified mRNAsi-based signatures conferred with the predictive ability of personalized ESCC prognosis and highlighted the potential targets for CSC-mediated immunotherapy. Analyses of the interface between ESCC stemness and TIME may help in predicting the efficacy of CSC-specific immunotherapy and provide insight into combinatorial therapy by targeting ESCC stem cells and TIME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilan Yi
- Department of Oncology, Cancer Center, Meizhou People's Hospital (Huangtang Hospital), Meizhou Academy of Medical Sciences, Meizhou Hospital Affiliated to Sun Yat-sen University, 63 Huangtang Road, Meizhou, 514031, Guangdong, PR China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine and Clinical Translational Research of Hakka Population, 63 Huangtang Road, Meizhou, 514031, Guangdong, PR China.
| | - Ping Huang
- Department of Oncology, Cancer Center, Meizhou People's Hospital (Huangtang Hospital), Meizhou Academy of Medical Sciences, Meizhou Hospital Affiliated to Sun Yat-sen University, 63 Huangtang Road, Meizhou, 514031, Guangdong, PR China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine and Clinical Translational Research of Hakka Population, 63 Huangtang Road, Meizhou, 514031, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Xiaofang Zou
- Department of Oncology, Cancer Center, Meizhou People's Hospital (Huangtang Hospital), Meizhou Academy of Medical Sciences, Meizhou Hospital Affiliated to Sun Yat-sen University, 63 Huangtang Road, Meizhou, 514031, Guangdong, PR China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine and Clinical Translational Research of Hakka Population, 63 Huangtang Road, Meizhou, 514031, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Longhua Guo
- Department of Oncology, Cancer Center, Meizhou People's Hospital (Huangtang Hospital), Meizhou Academy of Medical Sciences, Meizhou Hospital Affiliated to Sun Yat-sen University, 63 Huangtang Road, Meizhou, 514031, Guangdong, PR China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine and Clinical Translational Research of Hakka Population, 63 Huangtang Road, Meizhou, 514031, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Yinfang Gu
- Department of Oncology, Cancer Center, Meizhou People's Hospital (Huangtang Hospital), Meizhou Academy of Medical Sciences, Meizhou Hospital Affiliated to Sun Yat-sen University, 63 Huangtang Road, Meizhou, 514031, Guangdong, PR China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine and Clinical Translational Research of Hakka Population, 63 Huangtang Road, Meizhou, 514031, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Chunling Wen
- Department of Oncology, Cancer Center, Meizhou People's Hospital (Huangtang Hospital), Meizhou Academy of Medical Sciences, Meizhou Hospital Affiliated to Sun Yat-sen University, 63 Huangtang Road, Meizhou, 514031, Guangdong, PR China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine and Clinical Translational Research of Hakka Population, 63 Huangtang Road, Meizhou, 514031, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Guowu Wu
- Department of Oncology, Cancer Center, Meizhou People's Hospital (Huangtang Hospital), Meizhou Academy of Medical Sciences, Meizhou Hospital Affiliated to Sun Yat-sen University, 63 Huangtang Road, Meizhou, 514031, Guangdong, PR China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine and Clinical Translational Research of Hakka Population, 63 Huangtang Road, Meizhou, 514031, Guangdong, PR China.
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Walcher L, Kistenmacher AK, Suo H, Kitte R, Dluczek S, Strauß A, Blaudszun AR, Yevsa T, Fricke S, Kossatz-Boehlert U. Cancer Stem Cells-Origins and Biomarkers: Perspectives for Targeted Personalized Therapies. Front Immunol 2020; 11:1280. [PMID: 32849491 PMCID: PMC7426526 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.01280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 434] [Impact Index Per Article: 108.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The use of biomarkers in diagnosis, therapy and prognosis has gained increasing interest over the last decades. In particular, the analysis of biomarkers in cancer patients within the pre- and post-therapeutic period is required to identify several types of cells, which carry a risk for a disease progression and subsequent post-therapeutic relapse. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a subpopulation of tumor cells that can drive tumor initiation and can cause relapses. At the time point of tumor initiation, CSCs originate from either differentiated cells or adult tissue resident stem cells. Due to their importance, several biomarkers that characterize CSCs have been identified and correlated to diagnosis, therapy and prognosis. However, CSCs have been shown to display a high plasticity, which changes their phenotypic and functional appearance. Such changes are induced by chemo- and radiotherapeutics as well as senescent tumor cells, which cause alterations in the tumor microenvironment. Induction of senescence causes tumor shrinkage by modulating an anti-tumorigenic environment in which tumor cells undergo growth arrest and immune cells are attracted. Besides these positive effects after therapy, senescence can also have negative effects displayed post-therapeutically. These unfavorable effects can directly promote cancer stemness by increasing CSC plasticity phenotypes, by activating stemness pathways in non-CSCs, as well as by promoting senescence escape and subsequent activation of stemness pathways. At the end, all these effects can lead to tumor relapse and metastasis. This review provides an overview of the most frequently used CSC markers and their implementation as biomarkers by focussing on deadliest solid (lung, stomach, liver, breast and colorectal cancers) and hematological (acute myeloid leukemia, chronic myeloid leukemia) cancers. Furthermore, it gives examples on how the CSC markers might be influenced by therapeutics, such as chemo- and radiotherapy, and the tumor microenvironment. It points out, that it is crucial to identify and monitor residual CSCs, senescent tumor cells, and the pro-tumorigenic senescence-associated secretory phenotype in a therapy follow-up using specific biomarkers. As a future perspective, a targeted immune-mediated strategy using chimeric antigen receptor based approaches for the removal of remaining chemotherapy-resistant cells as well as CSCs in a personalized therapeutic approach are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lia Walcher
- Department of Immunology, Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Ann-Kathrin Kistenmacher
- Department of Immunology, Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Huizhen Suo
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Reni Kitte
- Department of Immunology, Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Sarah Dluczek
- Department of Immunology, Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Alexander Strauß
- Department of Immunology, Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology, Leipzig, Germany
| | - André-René Blaudszun
- Department of Immunology, Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Tetyana Yevsa
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Stephan Fricke
- Department of Immunology, Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Uta Kossatz-Boehlert
- Department of Immunology, Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology, Leipzig, Germany
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Cancer Stem Cells: Acquisition, Characteristics, Therapeutic Implications, Targeting Strategies and Future Prospects. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2020; 15:331-355. [PMID: 30993589 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-019-09887-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Since last two decades, the major cancer research has focused on understanding the characteristic properties and mechanism of formation of Cancer stem cells (CSCs), due to their ability to initiate tumor growth, self-renewal property and multi-drug resistance. The discovery of the mechanism of acquisition of stem-like properties by carcinoma cells via epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) has paved a way towards a deeper understanding of CSCs and presented a possible avenue for the development of therapeutic strategies. In spite of years of research, various challenges, such as identification of CSC subpopulation, lack of appropriate experimental models, targeting cancer cells and CSCs specifically without harming normal cells, are being faced while dealing with CSCs. Here, we discuss the biology and characteristics of CSCs, mode of acquisition of stemness (via EMT) and development of multi-drug resistance, the role of tumor niche, the process of dissemination and metastasis, therapeutic implications of CSCs and necessity of targeting them. We emphasise various strategies being developed to specifically target CSCs, including those targeting biomarkers, key pathways and microenvironment. Finally, we focus on the challenges that need to be subdued and propose the aspects that need to be addressed in future studies in order to broaden the understanding of CSCs and develop novel strategies to eradicate them in clinical applications. Graphical Abstract Cancer Stem Cells(CSCs) have gained much attention in the last few decades due to their ability to initiate tumor growth and, self-renewal property and multi-drug resistance. Here, we represent the CSC model of cancer, Characteristics of CSCs, acquisition of stemness and metastatic dissemination of cancer, Therapeutic implications of CSCs and Various strategies being employed to target and eradicate CSCs.
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Wang H, Xuan TT, Chen Y, Yu H, Gu TT, Zhou G, Liang L, Cao FL. Investigative therapy for advanced esophageal cancer using the option for combined immunotherapy and chemotherapy. Immunotherapy 2020; 12:697-703. [PMID: 32580606 DOI: 10.2217/imt-2020-0063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: Advanced esophageal cancer has limited therapeutic options and a poor outcome. The efficacy of immunotherapy, as the first-line treatment of advanced esophageal cancer, is uncertain. Results: A stage IV advanced esophageal cancer patient received the first-line treatment with a combination of pembrolizumab and chemotherapy. Partial response (PR) was achieved after three cycles, and the efficacy was evaluated as stable after six cycles of immunochemotherapy and two cycles of maintenance monotherapy. Immune-related adverse events (irAEs) were not obvious. The patient was followed up till November 2019 when he died of gastrointestinal hemorrhage. Conclusion: The combination of an immune checkpoint inhibitor and chemotherapy is effective and safe for the initial treatment of advanced esophageal cancer. To confirm the evidence from this case, larger clinical trials are required in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 758 Hefei Road, Qingdao, Shandong 266035, China
| | - Tian-Tian Xuan
- Department of Medical Oncology, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 758 Hefei Road, Qingdao, Shandong 266035, China
| | - Ying Chen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 758 Hefei Road, Qingdao, Shandong 266035, China
| | - Hui Yu
- YuceBio Technology Co. Ltd, Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Tian-Tian Gu
- YuceBio Technology Co. Ltd, Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Gang Zhou
- YuceBio Technology Co. Ltd, Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Lei Liang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 758 Hefei Road, Qingdao, Shandong 266035, China
| | - Fang-Li Cao
- Department of Medical Oncology, Qilu Hospital (Qingdao), Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 758 Hefei Road, Qingdao, Shandong 266035, China
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Zhou C, Fan N, Liu F, Fang N, Plum PS, Thieme R, Gockel I, Gromnitza S, Hillmer AM, Chon SH, Schlösser HA, Bruns CJ, Zhao Y. Linking Cancer Stem Cell Plasticity to Therapeutic Resistance-Mechanism and Novel Therapeutic Strategies in Esophageal Cancer. Cells 2020; 9:cells9061481. [PMID: 32560537 PMCID: PMC7349233 DOI: 10.3390/cells9061481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 06/07/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Esophageal cancer (EC) is an aggressive form of cancer, including squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and adenocarcinoma (EAC) as two predominant histological subtypes. Accumulating evidence supports the existence of cancer stem cells (CSCs) able to initiate and maintain EAC or ESCC. In this review, we aim to collect the current evidence on CSCs in esophageal cancer, including the biomarkers/characterization strategies of CSCs, heterogeneity of CSCs, and the key signaling pathways (Wnt/β-catenin, Notch, Hedgehog, YAP, JAK/STAT3) in modulating CSCs during esophageal cancer progression. Exploring the molecular mechanisms of therapy resistance in EC highlights DNA damage response (DDR), metabolic reprogramming, epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT), and the role of the crosstalk of CSCs and their niche in the tumor progression. According to these molecular findings, potential therapeutic implications of targeting esophageal CSCs may provide novel strategies for the clinical management of esophageal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenghui Zhou
- Department of General, Visceral, Cancer and Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany; (C.Z.); (N.F.); (F.L.); (P.S.P.); (S.-H.C.); (H.A.S.); (C.J.B.)
| | - Ningbo Fan
- Department of General, Visceral, Cancer and Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany; (C.Z.); (N.F.); (F.L.); (P.S.P.); (S.-H.C.); (H.A.S.); (C.J.B.)
| | - Fanyu Liu
- Department of General, Visceral, Cancer and Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany; (C.Z.); (N.F.); (F.L.); (P.S.P.); (S.-H.C.); (H.A.S.); (C.J.B.)
- Interfaculty Institute for Cell Biology, University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 15, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Nan Fang
- Singleron Biotechnologies, Yaogu Avenue 11, Nanjing 210000, China;
| | - Patrick S. Plum
- Department of General, Visceral, Cancer and Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany; (C.Z.); (N.F.); (F.L.); (P.S.P.); (S.-H.C.); (H.A.S.); (C.J.B.)
- Institute of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany; (S.G.); (A.M.H.)
| | - René Thieme
- Department of Visceral, Transplant, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, University Hospital of Leipzig, 4107 Leipzig, Germany; (R.T.); (I.G.)
| | - Ines Gockel
- Department of Visceral, Transplant, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, University Hospital of Leipzig, 4107 Leipzig, Germany; (R.T.); (I.G.)
| | - Sascha Gromnitza
- Institute of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany; (S.G.); (A.M.H.)
| | - Axel M. Hillmer
- Institute of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany; (S.G.); (A.M.H.)
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne, University of Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany
| | - Seung-Hun Chon
- Department of General, Visceral, Cancer and Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany; (C.Z.); (N.F.); (F.L.); (P.S.P.); (S.-H.C.); (H.A.S.); (C.J.B.)
| | - Hans A. Schlösser
- Department of General, Visceral, Cancer and Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany; (C.Z.); (N.F.); (F.L.); (P.S.P.); (S.-H.C.); (H.A.S.); (C.J.B.)
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne, University of Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany
| | - Christiane J. Bruns
- Department of General, Visceral, Cancer and Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany; (C.Z.); (N.F.); (F.L.); (P.S.P.); (S.-H.C.); (H.A.S.); (C.J.B.)
- Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne, University of Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany
| | - Yue Zhao
- Department of General, Visceral, Cancer and Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany; (C.Z.); (N.F.); (F.L.); (P.S.P.); (S.-H.C.); (H.A.S.); (C.J.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-221-4783-0601; Fax: +49-221-4783-0664
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Naseri M, Bozorgmehr M, Zöller M, Ranaei Pirmardan E, Madjd Z. Tumor-derived exosomes: the next generation of promising cell-free vaccines in cancer immunotherapy. Oncoimmunology 2020; 9:1779991. [PMID: 32934883 PMCID: PMC7466856 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2020.1779991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Identification of immunogenic tumor antigens that are efficiently processed and delivered by dendritic cells to prime the immune system and to induce an appropriate immune response is a research hotspot in the field of cancer vaccine development. High biosafety is an additional demand. Tumor-derived exosomes (TEXs) are nanosized lipid bilayer encapsulated vesicles that shuttle bioactive information to the tumor microenvironment facilitating tumor progression. However, accumulating evidence points toward the capacity of TEXs to efficiently stimulate immune responses against tumors provided they are appropriately administered. After briefly describing the function of exosomes in cancer biology and their communication with immune cells, we summarize in this review in vitro and preclinical studies eliciting the potency of TEXs in inducing effective anti-tumor responses and recently modified strategies further improving TEX-vaccination efficacy. We interpret the available data as TEXs becoming a lead in cancer vaccination based on tumor antigen-selective high immunogenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzieh Naseri
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahmood Bozorgmehr
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Margot Zöller
- Section Pancreas Research, University Hospital of Surgery, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ehsan Ranaei Pirmardan
- Molecular Biomarkers Nano-imaging Laboratory, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Department of Radiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Zahra Madjd
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Gao Y, Tang M, Leung E, Svirskis D, Shelling A, Wu Z. Dual or multiple drug loaded nanoparticles to target breast cancer stem cells. RSC Adv 2020; 10:19089-19105. [PMID: 35518295 PMCID: PMC9054075 DOI: 10.1039/d0ra02801k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer stem(-like) cells (BCSCs) have been found to be responsible for therapeutic resistance and disease relapse. BCSCs are difficult to eradicate due to their high resistance to conventional treatments and high plasticity. Functionalised nanoparticles have been investigated as smart vehicles to transport across various barriers and increase the interaction of therapeutic agents with cancer cells, as well as BCSCs. In this review, we discuss the different characteristics of BCSCs, and challenges to tackle BCSCs at cellular and molecular levels. The mechanisms of action and physicochemical properties of the current BCSC targeting agents are also covered. We will focus on the rational design and recent advances of "Nano + Nano" or single tumour targeting nanoparticle systems loaded with dual or multiple agents to kill all cancer cells including BCSCs. These cocktail therapies include the combination of a chemotherapy agent with a BCSC-specific inhibitor, a phytochemical agent or RNA based therapy. Given the heterogeneity of breast tumour tissue, targeting both BCSCs and bulk breast cancer cells simultaneously with multiple agents holds great promise in eliminating breast cancer. The future research needs to focus on overcoming various barriers in the 'clinical translation' of BCSC-targeting nanomedicines to cure breast cancer, which requires a significant multidisciplinary effort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Gao
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland Auckland 1142 New Zealand +64-9-9231709
| | - Mingtan Tang
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland Auckland 1142 New Zealand +64-9-9231709
| | - Euphemia Leung
- Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland Auckland 1023 New Zealand
| | - Darren Svirskis
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland Auckland 1142 New Zealand +64-9-9231709
| | - Andrew Shelling
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland Auckland 1142 New Zealand
| | - Zimei Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland Auckland 1142 New Zealand +64-9-9231709
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Chivu-Economescu M, Necula LG, Matei L, Dragu DL, Neagu AI, Alexiu I, Bleotu C, Diaconu CC. Gastrointestinal cancer stem cells as targets for innovative immunotherapy. World J Gastroenterol 2020; 26:1580-1593. [PMID: 32327907 PMCID: PMC7167409 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v26.i14.1580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2019] [Revised: 01/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The role of cancer stem cells in gastrointestinal cancer-associated death has been widely recognized. Gastrointestinal cancer stem cells (GCSCs) are considered to be responsible for tumor initiation, growth, resistance to cytotoxic therapies, recurrence and metastasis due to their unique properties. These properties make the current therapeutic trials against GCSCs ineffective. Moreover, recent studies have shown that targeting stem cell surface markers or stemness associated pathways might have an additional off-target effect on the immune system. Recent advances in oncology and precision medicine have opened alternative therapeutic strategies in the form of cancer immunotherapy. This approach differs from classical anti-cancer therapy through its mechanism of action involving the activation and use of a functional immune system against tumor cells, instead of aiming physically destruction of cancer cells through radio- or chemotherapy. New immunological approaches for GCSCs targeting involve the use of different immune cells and various immune mechanisms like targeting specific surface antigens, using innate immune cells like the natural killer and T cells, T-cell chimeric antigen receptor technology, dendritic cell vaccine, or immune checkpoint inhibitors. In this respect, better understandings of immune regulatory mechanisms that govern anti-tumor response bring new hope in obtaining long-term remission for cancer therapy.
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MESH Headings
- Antigens, Neoplasm/immunology
- Antigens, Neoplasm/metabolism
- Biomarkers, Tumor/antagonists & inhibitors
- Biomarkers, Tumor/immunology
- Biomarkers, Tumor/metabolism
- Cancer Vaccines/administration & dosage
- Combined Modality Therapy/methods
- Dendritic Cells/immunology
- Drug Resistance, Neoplasm/immunology
- Gastrointestinal Neoplasms/immunology
- Gastrointestinal Neoplasms/pathology
- Gastrointestinal Neoplasms/therapy
- Humans
- Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors/pharmacology
- Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors/therapeutic use
- Immunity, Innate/drug effects
- Immunity, Innate/immunology
- Immunotherapy/methods
- Killer Cells, Natural/drug effects
- Killer Cells, Natural/immunology
- Killer Cells, Natural/transplantation
- Neoplasm Recurrence, Local/immunology
- Neoplasm Recurrence, Local/pathology
- Neoplasm Recurrence, Local/prevention & control
- Neoplastic Stem Cells/immunology
- Neoplastic Stem Cells/metabolism
- Neoplastic Stem Cells/pathology
- Receptors, Chimeric Antigen/immunology
- T-Lymphocytes/drug effects
- T-Lymphocytes/immunology
- T-Lymphocytes/transplantation
- Tumor Escape/drug effects
- Tumor Escape/immunology
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Affiliation(s)
- Mihaela Chivu-Economescu
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pathology, Stefan S. Nicolau Institute of Virology, Bucharest 030304, Romania
| | - Laura G Necula
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pathology, Stefan S. Nicolau Institute of Virology, Bucharest 030304, Romania
- Nicolae Cajal Institute, Titu Maiorescu University, Bucharest 040441, Romania
| | - Lilia Matei
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pathology, Stefan S. Nicolau Institute of Virology, Bucharest 030304, Romania
| | - Denisa Laura Dragu
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pathology, Stefan S. Nicolau Institute of Virology, Bucharest 030304, Romania
| | - Ana I Neagu
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pathology, Stefan S. Nicolau Institute of Virology, Bucharest 030304, Romania
| | - Irina Alexiu
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pathology, Stefan S. Nicolau Institute of Virology, Bucharest 030304, Romania
| | - Coralia Bleotu
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pathology, Stefan S. Nicolau Institute of Virology, Bucharest 030304, Romania
| | - Carmen Cristina Diaconu
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pathology, Stefan S. Nicolau Institute of Virology, Bucharest 030304, Romania
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44
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Immunotherapy: Newer Therapeutic Armamentarium against Cancer Stem Cells. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2020; 2020:3963561. [PMID: 32211043 PMCID: PMC7085385 DOI: 10.1155/2020/3963561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2019] [Accepted: 02/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Mounting evidence from the literature suggests the existence of a subpopulation of cancer stem cells (CSCs) in almost all types of human cancers. These CSCs possessing a self-renewal capacity inhabit primary tumors and are more defiant to standard antimitotic and molecularly targeted therapies which are used for eliminating actively proliferating and differentiated cancer cells. Clinical relevance of CSCs emerges from the fact that they are the root cause of therapy resistance, relapse, and metastasis. Earlier, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy were established as cancer treatment modalities, but recently, immunotherapy is also gaining importance in the management of various cancer patients, mostly those of the advanced stage. This review abridges potential off-target effects of inhibiting CSC self-renewal pathways on immune cells and some recent immunological studies specifically targeting CSCs on the basis of their antigen expression profile, even though molecular markers or antigens that have been described till date as expressed by cancer stem cells are not specifically expressed by these cells which is a major limitation to target CSCs. We propose that owing to CSC stemness property to mediate immunotherapy response, we can apply a combination therapy approach by targeting CSCs and tumor microenvironment (TME) along with conventional treatment strategies as an effective means to eradicate cancer cells.
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45
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Gastric Cancer Stem Cells: Current Insights into the Immune Microenvironment and Therapeutic Targets. Biomedicines 2020; 8:biomedicines8010007. [PMID: 31935894 PMCID: PMC7168269 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines8010007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Revised: 12/27/2019] [Accepted: 01/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) is a leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are known to be involved in chemotherapy resistance and the development of metastases. Although CSCs harbor self-renewal and tumorigenic abilities, the immune microenvironment surrounding CSCs provides various factors and supports the maintenance of CSC properties. The current review summarizes the accumulating findings regarding the relationship between the immune microenvironment and gastric CSCs (GCSCs), which will support the possibility of developing novel therapeutic strategies for targeting GCSCs.
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46
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Veschi V, Verona F, Lo Iacono M, D'Accardo C, Porcelli G, Turdo A, Gaggianesi M, Forte S, Giuffrida D, Memeo L, Todaro M. Cancer Stem Cells in Thyroid Tumors: From the Origin to Metastasis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:566. [PMID: 32982967 PMCID: PMC7477072 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.00566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Thyroid tumors are extremely heterogeneous varying from almost benign tumors with good prognosis as papillary or follicular tumors, to the undifferentiated ones with severe prognosis. Recently, several models of thyroid carcinogenesis have been described, mostly hypothesizing a major role of the thyroid cancer stem cell (TCSC) population in both cancer initiation and metastasis formation. However, the cellular origin of TCSC is still incompletely understood. Here, we review the principal epigenetic mechanisms relevant to TCSC origin and maintenance in both well-differentiated and anaplastic thyroid tumors. Specifically, we describe the alterations in DNA methylation, histone modifiers, and microRNAs (miRNAs) involved in TCSC survival, focusing on the potential of targeting aberrant epigenetic modifications for developing novel therapeutic approaches. Moreover, we discuss the bidirectional relationship between TCSCs and immune cells. The cells of innate and adaptive response can promote the TCSC-driven tumorigenesis, and conversely, TCSCs may favor the expansion of immune cells with protumorigenic functions. Finally, we evaluate the role of the tumor microenvironment and the complex cross-talk of chemokines, hormones, and cytokines in regulating thyroid tumor initiation, progression, and therapy refractoriness. The re-education of the stromal cells can be an effective strategy to fight thyroid cancer. Dissecting the genetic and epigenetic landscape of TCSCs and their interactions with tumor microenvironment cells is urgently needed to select more appropriate treatment and improve the outcome of patients affected by advanced differentiated and undifferentiated thyroid cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Veschi
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Stomatological Sciences (DICHIRONS), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Francesco Verona
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Stomatological Sciences (DICHIRONS), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Melania Lo Iacono
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Stomatological Sciences (DICHIRONS), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Caterina D'Accardo
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Gaetana Porcelli
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Stomatological Sciences (DICHIRONS), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Alice Turdo
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Miriam Gaggianesi
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Stomatological Sciences (DICHIRONS), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Stefano Forte
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Mediterranean Institute of Oncology (IOM), Catania, Italy
| | - Dario Giuffrida
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Mediterranean Institute of Oncology (IOM), Catania, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Memeo
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Mediterranean Institute of Oncology (IOM), Catania, Italy
| | - Matilde Todaro
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
- *Correspondence: Matilde Todaro
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47
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Suo X, Zhang J, Zhang Y, Liang XJ, Zhang J, Liu D. A nano-based thermotherapy for cancer stem cell-targeted therapy. J Mater Chem B 2020; 8:3985-4001. [DOI: 10.1039/d0tb00311e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) exhibit high resistance to conventional therapy and are responsible for cancer metastasis and tumor relapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaomin Suo
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Diagnosis of the Ministry of Education
- Hebei University
- Baoding 071002
- People's Republic of China
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Science
| | - Juncai Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Diagnosis of the Ministry of Education
- Hebei University
- Baoding 071002
- People's Republic of China
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Science
| | - Yue Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Diagnosis of the Ministry of Education
- Hebei University
- Baoding 071002
- People's Republic of China
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Science
| | - Xing-Jie Liang
- CAS Key Laboratory for Biological Effects of Nanomaterials and Nanosafety, National Center for Nanoscience and Technology
- Beijing 100190
- People's Republic of China
| | - Jinchao Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Diagnosis of the Ministry of Education
- Hebei University
- Baoding 071002
- People's Republic of China
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Science
| | - Dandan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Diagnosis of the Ministry of Education
- Hebei University
- Baoding 071002
- People's Republic of China
- College of Chemistry and Environmental Science
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48
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Lu L, Wang P, Zou Y, Zha Z, Huang H, Guan M, Wu Y, Liu G. IL-1β Promotes Stemness of Tumor Cells by Activating Smad/ID1 Signaling Pathway. Int J Med Sci 2020; 17:1257-1268. [PMID: 32547321 PMCID: PMC7294920 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.44285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: IL-1β is reported to be involved in cancer development and distant metastasis. However, the underlying mechanism of IL-1β upon malignant behaviors remains largely unknown. In this study, we aimed to study whether IL-1β could enhance the stemness traits of tumor cells. Methods: The concentrations of serum IL-1β in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) and melanoma patients were detected using ELISA assay. The effect and mechanisms of IL-1β on tumor cell growth, migration, invasion and stemness characters were studied using HNSCC cell SCC7 and melanoma cell B16-F10. The underlying mechanisms were further explored. Results: Enhanced concentrations of IL-1β were positively correlated with advanced tumor stage in both HNSCC and melanoma patients. IL-1β treatment led to a significant increase in tumor growth both in vitro and in vivo. IL-1β stimulation promoted cell proliferation, colony formation and tumorigenicity. In addition, IL-1β-stimulated tumor cells gained enhanced capabilities on wounding healing and invasion capabilities. Moreover, IL-1β stimulation promoted the stem-like capabilities of both HNSCC cells and melanoma cells, including the enrichment of aldehyde dehydrogenase+ (ALDH+) cells, up-regulation of stem cell related markers Nanog, OCT4, and SOX2, sphere formation and chemoresistance. Mechanistically, IL-1β treatment promoted the phosphorylation of Smad1/5/8 and activated its downstream target inhibitor of differentiation 1 (ID1). Silencing ID1 abrogated sphere formation and upregulated expression of stemness genes which were induced by IL-1β stimulation. Conclusion: Our data demonstrates that IL-1β promotes the stemness of HNSCC and melanoma cells through activating Smad/ID1 signal pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Lu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China, 510180.,Department of Medical Oncology, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China, 510180
| | - Peipei Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China, 510180
| | - Yonghong Zou
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ji'an City Center People's Hospital, Jiangxi, China, 343000
| | - Zhiqiang Zha
- Department of Medical Oncology, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China, 510180
| | - Haowei Huang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China, 510180
| | - Mingmei Guan
- Department of Medical Oncology, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China, 510180.,Department of Medical Oncology, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China, 510180
| | - Yong Wu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China, 510180.,Department of Medical Oncology, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China, 510180
| | - Guolong Liu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China, 510180.,Department of Medical Oncology, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China, 510180
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49
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Caldas-Lopes E, Gomez-Arteaga A, Guzman ML. Approaches to Targeting Cancer Stem Cells in Solid Tumors. Curr Stem Cell Res Ther 2019; 14:421-427. [PMID: 30806324 DOI: 10.2174/1574888x14666190222164429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2018] [Revised: 11/08/2018] [Accepted: 01/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
CSCs are a population of self-renewing and tumor repopulating cells that have been observed in hematologic and solid tumors and their presence contributes to the development of drug resistance. The failure to eliminate CSCs with conventional therapy is one of major obstacles in the successful treatment of cancer. Several mechanisms have been described to contribute to CSCs chemoresistance properties that include the adoption of drug-efflux pumps, drug detoxification pathways, changes in metabolism, improved DNA repair mechanisms, and deregulated survival and pro-apoptotic pathways. Thus, CSCs are therefore an attractive target to develop new anti-cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eloisi Caldas-Lopes
- Division of Hematology Oncology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Alexandra Gomez-Arteaga
- Division of Hematology Oncology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
| | - Monica L Guzman
- Division of Hematology Oncology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States.,Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, United States
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50
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Bartram I, Jeschke JM. Do cancer stem cells exist? A pilot study combining a systematic review with the hierarchy-of-hypotheses approach. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0225898. [PMID: 31834886 PMCID: PMC6910685 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0225898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2019] [Accepted: 11/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The phenomenon of cancer cell heterogeneity has been explained by different hypotheses, each entailing different therapy strategies. The most recent is the cancer stem cell model, which says that tumourigenicity and self-renewal are restricted to rare stem cell-like cancer cells. Since its conception, conflicting evidence has been published. In this study, we tested the applicability of a new approach developed in the field of ecology, the hierarchy-of-hypotheses approach, for the Cancer Stem Cell hypothesis. This approach allows to structure a broad concept into more specific sub-hypotheses, which in turn can be connected to available empirical studies. To generate a dataset with empirical studies, we conducted a systematic literature review in the Web of Science limited to the first 1000 publications returned by the search. From this pool, 51 publications were identified that tested whether a cell sub-population had cancer stem cell properties. By classifying the studies according to: (1) assessed indicators, (2) experimental assays and (3) model cancer cells used, we built a hierarchical structure of sub-hypotheses. The empirical tests from the selected studies were subsequently assigned to this hierarchy of hypotheses, and the percentage of supporting, undecided and questioning evidence was calculated for each sub-hypothesis, as well as additional experimental characteristics. Our approach successfully allowed us to determine that within our dataset, the empirical support for the CSC hypothesis was only 49.0%. The support of different sub-hypotheses was highly variable. Most noticeable, the conception that putative cancer stem cells are a rare subset of cells could not be confirmed by most studies (13.5% support). The empirical support varied also between types of cancer, animal models and cell isolation method used. For the first time, this study showed the applicability of the hierarchy-of-hypotheses approach for synthesizing and evaluating empirical evidence for a broad hypothesis in the field of bio-medical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle Bartram
- Department of Biology, Chemistry, Pharmacy, Institute of Biology, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jonathan M. Jeschke
- Department of Biology, Chemistry, Pharmacy, Institute of Biology, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Leibniz-Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries (IGB), Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Berlin-Brandenburg Institute of Advanced Biodiversity Research (BBIB), Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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