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Inhibition of Pathologic Corneal Neovascularization by Topical Application of a Novel Peptide In Vivo. Cornea 2016; 34:1295-302. [PMID: 26266428 DOI: 10.1097/ico.0000000000000548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the antiangiogenic effect of topical application of H-KI20, a novel 20-amino acid peptide from the hepatocyte growth factor, on 2 animal models of corneal neovascularization (NV), and its possible toxic effects on the cornea and conjunctiva. METHODS The antiangiogenic effect of topical H-KI20 in vivo was studied on corneal NV induced by a mouse corneal micropocket assay and rat intrastromal suture model. In each model, H-KI20, scrambled control peptide H-KI20S, bevacizumab, and phosphate buffer solution (PBS) were applied topically 4 times a day. Corneal NV was examined, photographed, and analyzed. Histological analysis of the corneas was performed. Tear film breakup time and gross and histological examinations were used to study the possible toxicity of topical H-KI20. RESULTS Topical application of H-KI20 significantly inhibited corneal NV induced by vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and intrastromal suture (P < 0.01 vs. the PBS group), and the area of corneal NV was suppressed by 80.3% and 83.6%, respectively (PBS group as 100%). No significant difference was found between 1.0 mg/mL H-KI20 and 10 mg/mL bevacizumab (P > 0.05). Both hematoxylin and eosin and CD34 staining revealed fewer new blood vessels in the H-KI20 and bevacizumab groups. Tear film breakup time and histological examinations showed that H-KI20 had no obvious toxic effects on the cornea and conjunctiva in vivo. CONCLUSIONS The novel peptide H-KI20 is an effective and safe inhibitor of corneal NV. It may provide a promising alternative for ocular topical antiangiogenic therapy.
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Grzelakowska-Sztabert B, Dudkowska M. Paradoxical action of growth factors: antiproliferative and proapoptotic signaling by HGF/c-MET. Growth Factors 2011; 29:105-18. [PMID: 21631393 DOI: 10.3109/08977194.2011.585609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)/mesenchymal-epithelial transition factor (c-MET) signaling is usually associated with the promotion of cellular growth and often with progression of tumors. Nevertheless, under certain conditions HGF can also act as an antiproliferative and proapoptotic factor and can sensitize various cancer cells, treated with anticancer drugs, to apoptosis. Not only HGF but also its various truncated forms as well as intracellular fragments of its membrane receptor, c-MET, may act as antiproliferative and proapoptotic factors toward various cells. This review focuses on different mechanisms responsible for such paradoxical action of the known typical growth factor. It also points toward the possibilities of usage of this information in anticancer therapy.
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Collins SA, Buhles A, Scallan MF, Harrison PT, O'Hanlon DM, O'Sullivan GC, Tangney M. AAV2-mediated in vivo immune gene therapy of solid tumours. GENETIC VACCINES AND THERAPY 2010; 8:8. [PMID: 21172020 PMCID: PMC3016353 DOI: 10.1186/1479-0556-8-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2010] [Accepted: 12/20/2010] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Background Many strategies have been adopted to unleash the potential of gene therapy for cancer, involving a wide range of therapeutic genes delivered by various methods. Immune therapy has become one of the major strategies adopted for cancer gene therapy and seeks to stimulate the immune system to target tumour antigens. In this study, the feasibility of AAV2 mediated immunotherapy of growing tumours was examined, in isolation and combined with anti-angiogenic therapy. Methods Immune-competent Balb/C or C57 mice bearing subcutaneous JBS fibrosarcoma or Lewis Lung Carcinoma (LLC) tumour xenografts respectively were treated by intra-tumoural administration of AAV2 vector encoding the immune up-regulating cytokine granulocyte macrophage-colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF) and the co-stimulatory molecule B7-1 to subcutaneous tumours, either alone or in combination with intra-muscular (IM) delivery of AAV2 vector encoding Nk4 14 days prior to tumour induction. Tumour growth and survival was monitored for all animals. Cured animals were re-challenged with tumourigenic doses of the original tumour type. In vivo cytotoxicity assays were used to investigate establishment of cell-mediated responses in treated animals. Results AAV2-mediated GM-CSF, B7-1 treatment resulted in a significant reduction in tumour growth and an increase in survival in both tumour models. Cured animals were resistant to re-challenge, and induction of T cell mediated anti-tumour responses were demonstrated. Adoptive transfer of splenocytes to naïve animals prevented tumour establishment. Systemic production of Nk4 induced by intra-muscular (IM) delivery of Nk4 significantly reduced subcutaneous tumour growth. However, combination of Nk4 treatment with GM-CSF, B7-1 therapy reduced the efficacy of the immune therapy. Conclusions Overall, this study demonstrates the potential for in vivo AAV2 mediated immune gene therapy, and provides data on the inter-relationship between tumour vasculature and immune cell recruitment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara A Collins
- Cork Cancer Research Centre, Mercy University Hospital and Leslie C, Quick Jnr, Laboratory, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.
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Ansell PJ, Zhang H, Davidson DJ, Harlan JE, Xue J, Brodjian S, Lesniewski R, McKeegan E. Recombinant kringle 5 from plasminogen antagonises hepatocyte growth factor-mediated signalling. Eur J Cancer 2010; 46:966-73. [PMID: 20061137 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2009.12.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2009] [Revised: 12/15/2009] [Accepted: 12/17/2009] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The blood protein plasminogen is proteolytically cleaved to produce angiostatin and kringle 5 (K5), both of which are known angiogenesis inhibitors. A common structural element between K5, angiostatin and other endogenous angiogenesis inhibitors is the presence of the kringle protein-interacting domain. Another kringle domain-containing protein, hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), promotes angiogenesis by binding to and stimulating the tyrosine kinase receptor Met. HGF binding to Met is dependent on the kringle domains of HGF. Because both K5 and HGF contain kringle motifs and because these proteins have opposite effects on angiogenesis, we hypothesised that K5 can antagonise HGF-mediated signalling in a Met-dependent manner. We determined that K5 binding to H1299 cells is competed by HGF suggesting that these two proteins bind to the same protein. Purified K5 immunoprecipitates with Met and this interaction is abolished by increasing doses of HGF. Using proliferation, phosphorylation of Met and Akt as markers of HGF activity, we determined that K5 inhibits HGF-mediated signalling. Taken together, these data support a model by which K5 binds to Met and functions as a competitive antagonist of HGF signalling and presents a novel mechanism of action of K5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter J Ansell
- Department of Cancer Research, Abbott Laboratories, Abbott Park, IL 60064, USA.
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Wright TG, Singh VK, Li JJ, Foley JH, Miller F, Jia Z, Elliott BE. Increased production and secretion of HGF alpha-chain and an antagonistic HGF fragment in a human breast cancer progression model. Int J Cancer 2009; 125:1004-15. [PMID: 19415747 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.24364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Invasive human breast carcinomas frequently coexpress increased hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and its receptor Met, suggesting that establishment of an autocrine HGF loop is important in malignant disease. This study examines the expression patterns of HGF and Met activation during tumorigenesis and metastasis using a MCF10A-based model of Ha-Ras-induced human breast cancer progression. Deregulation of cadherin-based cell-cell adhesions, decreased expression of cytokeratins 8/18 and increased activity of matrix metalloproteinases such as MMP-2 occurs in premalignant and malignant (metastatic) cell lines compared to the parental nonmalignant cell line. Compared to the benign parent cell line, premalignant and malignant cell lines exhibit increased secretion of full length HGF alpha-chain and elevated Met tyrosine phosphorylation in complete medium. Interestingly, the premalignant and malignant cells also secrete a approximately 55 kDa HGF fragment. Epitope mapping of the approximately 55 kDa HGF fragment supports the presence of the N-terminal domain of the HGF alpha-chain with a truncation in the C-terminal domain. The approximately 55 kDa HGF fragment shows mobility in SDS-PAGE faster than HGF alpha-chain, but slightly slower than NK4, a previously established full antagonist of HGF. The separated approximately 55 kDa HGF fragment binds to animmobilized Met-IgG fusion protein, and inhibits both HGF/Met-IgG binding and HGF-induced Met-tyrosine phosphorylation. These results are the first demonstration of an antagonistic approximately 55 kDa HGF fragment secreted during breast carcinoma progression, which may have a negative regulatory effect on HGF signaling in premalignant breast epithelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theodore G Wright
- Cancer Research Institute, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
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Kishi Y, Kuba K, Nakamura T, Wen J, Suzuki Y, Mizuno S, Nukiwa T, Matsumoto K, Nakamura T. Systemic NK4 gene therapy inhibits tumor growth and metastasis of melanoma and lung carcinoma in syngeneic mouse tumor models. Cancer Sci 2009; 100:1351-8. [PMID: 19438869 PMCID: PMC11159951 DOI: 10.1111/j.1349-7006.2009.01184.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2009] [Revised: 03/23/2009] [Accepted: 03/25/2009] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) promotes malignant development of cancer cells by enhancing invasion and metastasis. NK4, a competitive antagonist for HGF, is a bifunctional molecule that acts as a HGF antagonist and angiogenesis inhibitor. Although successful tumor inhibition by NK4 gene expression in tumor models has been demonstrated, the effects of systemic NK4 gene introduction are yet to be addressed. Here we show that systemic administration of a replication-defective adenovirus expressing NK4 (Ad.NK4) inhibits tumor growth and lung metastasis of B16F10 melanoma and Lewis lung carcinoma in syngeneic mice. Single tail-vein injection of Ad.NK4 achieved therapeutic levels of NK4 in the circulation and in multiple organs. Despite NK4 expression that was highest in the liver, toxicity in the liver was minimal. Ad.NK4-mediated growth inhibition was associated with decreased blood vessel density and increased apoptosis in tumor tissues, which suggests that NK4 suppressed tumor growth as an angiogenesis inhibitor. Metastasis of B16F10 melanoma and Lewis lung carcinoma cells to the lung was potently inhibited by systemic Ad.NK4-administration. Our results demonstrated that the adenovirus-mediated induction of high levels of circulating NK4 significantly inhibited in vivo tumor growth and distant metastasis without obvious side effects. NK4 gene therapy is thus a safe and promising strategy for the treatment of cancer patients, and further validation in clinical trials is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuko Kishi
- Division of Molecular Regenerative Medicine, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, Japan
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Sakai K, Nakamura T, Matsumoto K, Nakamura T. Angioinhibitory action of NK4 involves impaired extracellular assembly of fibronectin mediated by perlecan-NK4 association. J Biol Chem 2009; 284:22491-22499. [PMID: 19553700 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m109.025148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
NK4, a fragment of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), exerts bifunctional action as a competitive antagonist against HGF and its receptor c-Met and an angiogenesis inhibitor. Here we studied the anti-angiogenic mechanism of NK4. In cultured human endothelial cells, NK4 inhibited DNA synthesis induced not only by HGF but also by either basic fibroblast growth factor or vascular endothelial growth factor. Even if c-Met expression was diminished by small interference RNA, NK4 inhibited basic fibroblast growth factor-induced DNA synthesis, indicating that anti-angiogenic action of NK4 is c-Met-independent. Affinity purification with NK4-immobilized beads revealed that NK4 binds to perlecan. Consistent with this, NK4 colocalized with perlecan in endothelial cells. Perlecan is a multidomain heparan sulfate proteoglycan that interacts with basement membrane components such as fibronectin. NK4 inhibited extracellular assembly of fibronectin, by which fibronectin-dependent endothelial cell spreading was inhibited by NK4. Knockdown of perlecan expression by small interference RNA significantly abrogated the inhibitory effect of NK4 on fibronectin assembly and cell spreading. In NK4-treated endothelial cells, tyrosine phosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase and Rac activation were reduced, whereas overexpression of activated Rac recovered the DNA synthesis in NK4-treated endothelial cells. These results indicate that the association between NK4 and perlecan impairs fibronectin assembly, thereby inhibiting anchorage-dependent signaling. The identified mechanism for angiostatic action provides further proof of significance for NK4 in the treatment of cancer and potentially for vascular regulation as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katsuya Sakai
- Kringle Pharma Joint Research Division for Regenerative Drug Discovery, Center for Advanced Science and Innovation, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871
| | - Takahiro Nakamura
- Division of Tumor Dynamics and Regulation, Cancer Research Institute, Kanazawa University, 13-1 Takaramachi, Kanazawa 920-0934, Japan
| | - Kunio Matsumoto
- Division of Tumor Dynamics and Regulation, Cancer Research Institute, Kanazawa University, 13-1 Takaramachi, Kanazawa 920-0934, Japan
| | - Toshikazu Nakamura
- Kringle Pharma Joint Research Division for Regenerative Drug Discovery, Center for Advanced Science and Innovation, Osaka University, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871
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Buhles A, Collins SA, van Pijkeren JP, Rajendran S, Miles M, O'Sullivan GC, O'Hanlon DM, Tangney M. Anti-metastatic effects of viral and non-viral mediated Nk4 delivery to tumours. GENETIC VACCINES AND THERAPY 2009; 7:5. [PMID: 19272140 PMCID: PMC2669068 DOI: 10.1186/1479-0556-7-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2008] [Accepted: 03/09/2009] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
The most common cause of death of cancer sufferers is through the occurrence of metastases. The metastatic behaviour of tumour cells is regulated by extracellular growth factors such as hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), a ligand for the c-Met receptor tyrosine kinase, and aberrant expression/activation of the c-Met receptor is closely associated with metastatic progression. Nk4 (also known as Interleukin (IL)32b) is a competitive antagonist of the HGF c-Met system and inhibits c-Met signalling and tumour metastasis. Nk4 has an additional anti-angiogenic activity independent of its HGF-antagonist function. Angiogenesis-inhibitory as well as cancer-specific apoptosis inducing effects make the Nk4 sequence an attractive candidate for gene therapy of cancer. This study investigates the inhibition of tumour metasasis by gene therapy mediated production of Nk4 by the primary tumour. Optimal delivery of anti-cancer genes is vital in order to achieve the highest therapeutic responses. Non-viral plasmid delivery methods have the advantage of safety and ease of production, providing immediate transgene expression, albeit short-lived in most tumours. Sustained presence of anti-angiogenic molecules is preferable with anti-angiogenic therapies, and the long-term expression mediated by Adeno-associated Virus (AAV) might represent a more appropriate delivery in this respect. However, the incubation time required by AAV vectors to reach appropriate gene expression levels hampers efficacy in many fast-growing murine tumour models. Here, we describe murine trials assessing the effects of Nk4 on the spontaneously metastatic Lewis Lung Carcinoma (LLC) model when delivered to primary tumour via plasmid lipofection or AAV2 vector. Intratumoural AAV-Nk4 administration produced the highest therapeutic response with significant reduction in both primary tumour growth and incidence of lung metastases. Plasmid-mediated therapy also significantly reduced metastatic growth, but with moderate reduction in primary subcutaneous tumour growth. Overall, this study demonstrates the potential for Nk4 gene therapy of metastatic tumours, when delivered by AAV or non-viral methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Buhles
- Cork Cancer Research Centre, Mercy University Hospital, Leslie C Quick Junior Laboratory, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.
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Shen D, Tang Q, Huang Z, Chen Y, Xiong R, Wu H, Huang J, Feng S, Yan L, Bian Z. The effects of NK4 on viral myocarditis mice. Cardiovasc Pathol 2009; 18:323-31. [PMID: 19150247 DOI: 10.1016/j.carpath.2008.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2007] [Revised: 08/11/2008] [Accepted: 10/21/2008] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
NK4 may be a promising agent to inhibit tumor invasion and metastasis. To observe the effects of NK4 on the cardiovascular system with pathological injury and to discuss the mechanism, we established an experimental model of viral myocarditis (VCM) by coxsackievirus B3 infection in Balb/c mice on Day 0 and administered NK4 twice daily to the VCM and control mice from Day 20 to Day 45. We then evaluated the cardiac function by means of ultrasonic inspection. Hepatocyte growth factor, TNF (tumor necrosis factor)-alpha, and angiotensin II levels in the myocardial tissue were measured with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Myocardium histopathology was examined with hematoxylin and eosin stain. Collagen deposition of the myocardium was detected through Masson staining. Microvessel staining with the RECA antibody and apoptosis detection with terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP-biotin end labeling were performed in the myocardium. The changes in MMP3 (matrix metalloproteinase 3), MMP9, TIMP1 (tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1), and TGF (transforming growth factor)-beta1 expression in the myocardium were measured by reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. We found that NK4 intervention increased TGF-beta and angiotensin II expression, suppressed MMPs, improved the activities of TIMPs, and then promoted collagen deposition in the myocardium. NK4 intervention also decreased the microvessels' density and increased the apoptotic cell count in the myocardia of VCM mice. However, we did not observe the obvious changes in the myocardia of control mice after NK4 intervention. These data suggest that NK4 made negative impacts on the restoration of cardiac function and the recovery from VCM in the experimental mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Difei Shen
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital, Wuhan University, Wuhan, P.R. China
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Matsumoto K, Nakamura T, Sakai K, Nakamura T. Hepatocyte growth factor and Met in tumor biology and therapeutic approach with NK4. Proteomics 2008; 8:3360-70. [PMID: 18646008 DOI: 10.1002/pmic.200800156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and Met/HGF receptor tyrosine kinase play a role in the progression to invasive and metastatic cancers. A variety of cancer cells secrete molecules that enhance HGF expression in stromal fibroblasts, while fibroblast-derived HGF, in turn, is a potent stimulator of the invasion of cancer cells. In addition to the ligand-dependent activation, Met receptor activation is negatively regulated by cell-cell contact and Ser985 phosphorylation in the juxtamembrane of Met. The loss of intercellular junctions may facilitate an escape from the cell-cell contact-dependent suppression of Met-signaling. Significance of juxtamembrane mutations found in human cancers is assumed to be a loss-of-function in the negative regulation of Met. In attempts to block the malignant behavior of cancers, NK4 was isolated as a competitive antagonist against HGF-Met signaling. Independently on its HGF-antagonist action, NK4 inhibited angiogenesis induced by vascular endothelial cell growth factor and basic fibroblast growth factor, as well as HGF. In experimental models of distinct types of cancers, NK4 inhibited Met activation and this was associated with inhibition of tumor invasion and metastasis. NK4 inhibited tumor angiogenesis, thereby suppressing angiogenesis-dependent tumor growth. Cancer treatment with NK4 suppresses malignant tumors to be "static" in both tumor growth and spreading.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kunio Matsumoto
- Division of Tumor Dynamics and Regulation, Cancer Research Institute, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan.
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Drug development against metastasis-related genes and their pathways: a rationale for cancer therapy. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2008; 1786:87-104. [PMID: 18692117 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2008.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2007] [Revised: 03/27/2008] [Accepted: 07/10/2008] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
It is well recognized that the majority of cancer related deaths is caused by metastatic diseases. Therefore, there is an urgent need for the development of therapeutic intervention specifically targeted to the metastatic process. In the last decade, significant progress has been made in this research field, and many new concepts have emerged that shed light on the molecular mechanism of metastasis cascade which is often portrayed as a succession of six distinct steps; localized invasion, intravasation, translocation, extravasation, micrometastasis and colonization. Successful metastasis is dependent on the balance and complex interplay of both the metastasis promoters and suppressors in each step. Therefore, the basic strategy of our interventions is aimed at either blocking the promoters or potentiating the suppressors in this disease process. Toward this goal, various kinds of antibodies and small molecules have been designed. These include agents that block the ligand-recepter interaction of metastasis promoters (HGF/c-Met), antagonize the metastasis-promoting enzymes (AMF, uPA and MMP) and inhibit the transcriptional activity of metastasis promoter (beta-Catenin). On the other hand, the intriguing roles of metastasis suppressors and their signal pathways have been extensively studied and various attempts have been made to potentiate these factors. Small molecules have been developed to restore the expression or mimic the function of metastasis-suppressor genes such as NM23, E-cadherin, Kiss-1, MKK4 and NDRG1, and some of them are under clinical trials. This review summarizes our current understanding of the molecular pathway of tumor metastasis and discusses strategies and recent development of anti-metastatic drugs.
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Du W, Hattori Y, Yamada T, Matsumoto K, Nakamura T, Sagawa M, Otsuki T, Niikura T, Nukiwa T, Ikeda Y. NK4, an antagonist of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), inhibits growth of multiple myeloma cells: molecular targeting of angiogenic growth factor. Blood 2007; 109:3042-9. [PMID: 17179234 DOI: 10.1182/blood-2006-02-003103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) promotes cell growth and motility and also increases neovascularization. Multiple myeloma (MM) cells produce HGF, and the plasma concentration of HGF is significantly elevated in patients with clinically active MM, suggesting that HGF might play a role in the pathogenesis of MM. NK4, an antagonist of HGF, is structurally homologous to angiostatin, and our previous report showed that NK4 inhibited the proliferation of vascular endothelial cells induced by HGF stimulation. The purposes of this study were to elucidate the contribution of HGF to the growth of MM cells as well as to investigate the possibility of the therapeutic use of NK4. In vitro study showed that NK4 protein stabilized the growth of MM cell lines and regulated the activation of c-MET, ERK1/2, STAT3, and AKT-1. Recombinant adenovirus containing NK4 cDNA (AdCMV.NK4) was injected intramuscularly into Icr/scid mice bearing tumors derived from HGF-producing MM cells. AdCMV.NK4 significantly inhibited the growth of these tumors in vivo. Histologic examination revealed that AdCMV.NK4 induced apoptosis of MM cells, accompanied by a reduction in neovascularization in the tumors. Thus, NK4 inhibited the growth of MM cells via antiangiogenic as well as direct antitumor mechanisms. The molecular targeting of HGF by NK4 could be applied as a novel therapeutic approach to MM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenlin Du
- Department of Pathology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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Hosseinkhani H, Kushibiki T, Matsumoto K, Nakamura T, Tabata Y. Enhanced suppression of tumor growth using a combination of NK4 plasmid DNA-PEG engrafted cationized dextran complex and ultrasound irradiation. Cancer Gene Ther 2006; 13:479-89. [PMID: 16276347 DOI: 10.1038/sj.cgt.7700918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
This investigation aims to determine experimentally whether or not ultrasound (US) irradiation is effective in enhancing the in vivo gene expression of NK4 plasmid DNA and suppressing tumor growth. NK4, composed of the NH2-terminal hairpin and subsequent four-kringle domains of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), acts as an HGF-antagonist and angiogenesis inhibitor. Dextran was cationized by introducing spermine to the hydroxyl groups to allow for polyionic complexation with NK4 plasmid DNA. The cationized dextran was additionally modified with poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) molecules giving PEG engrafted cationized dextran. Significant suppression of tumor growth was observed when PEG engrafted cationized dextran-NK4 plasmid DNA complexes were intravenously injected into mice carrying a subcutaneous Lewis lung carcinoma tumor mass with subsequent US irradiation when compared with the cationized dextran-NK4 plasmid DNA complex and naked NK4 plasmid DNA with or without US irradiation. We conclude that complexation with PEG-engrafted cationized dextran in combination with US irradiation is a promising way to target the NK4 plasmid DNA to the tumor for gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Hosseinkhani
- Department of Biomaterials, Field of Tissue Engineering, Institute for Frontier Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan
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Ogura Y, Mizumoto K, Nagai E, Murakami M, Inadome N, Saimura M, Matsumoto K, Nakamura T, Maemondo M, Nukiwa T, Tanaka M. Peritumoral injection of adenovirus vector expressing NK4 combined with gemcitabine treatment suppresses growth and metastasis of human pancreatic cancer cells implanted orthotopically in nude mice and prolongs survival. Cancer Gene Ther 2006; 13:520-9. [PMID: 16341142 DOI: 10.1038/sj.cgt.7700921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
NK4 or adenovirus vector expressing NK4 (Ad-NK4) can act bifunctionally as a hepatocyte growth factor antagonist and angiogenesis inhibitor and has potential value in cancer therapy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of Ad-NK4 in combination with gemcitabine (GEM) against pancreatic cancer. In vitro study showed a strong antiproliferative effect of GEM and a potent anti-invasive effect of Ad-NK4 against pancreatic cancer cells. In in vivo experiments, SUIT-2 human pancreatic cancer cells were implanted into the pancreas of nude mice. Mice were treated with Ad-NK4 by injection into the peritumoral region of the pancreas on day 5 after implantation followed by weekly i.p. injections of GEM. On day 28 after implantation, pancreatic tumor volume was significantly smaller than that in mice treated with Ad-LacZ, Ad-NK4 alone, or GEM alone. Furthermore, combination therapy completely suppressed peritoneal dissemination and liver metastases, leading to significantly increased survival. Histologic and immunohistochemical assays of primary tumors indicated that combination therapy prohibited both cell proliferation and angiogenesis, resulting in high levels of apoptosis. These results suggest that peritumoral injection of Ad-NK4 plus GEM is a potent combination therapy for pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Ogura
- Department of Surgery and Oncology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
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Heideman DAM, Overmeer RM, van Beusechem VW, Lamers WH, Hakvoort TBM, Snijders PJF, Craanen ME, Offerhaus GJA, Meijer CJLM, Gerritsen WR. Inhibition of angiogenesis and HGF-cMET-elicited malignant processes in human hepatocellular carcinoma cells using adenoviral vector-mediated NK4 gene therapy. Cancer Gene Ther 2006; 12:954-62. [PMID: 15905856 DOI: 10.1038/sj.cgt.7700856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
NK4 is an hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)-antagonist and a broad angiogenesis inhibitor. NK4 gene therapy has confirmed antitumor efficacy on cancers with intact HGF-cMET signaling pathway. However, the feasibility to treat tumors in which the effect of the HGF-cMET signaling pathway is less unambiguous or may even be inhibitory on carcinogenesis, such as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with NK4 needs further assessment. Therefore, we evaluated the effects of adenoviral vector-mediated expression of NK4 on the biological behavior of a series of HCC cell lines in vitro and on HepG2 xenografts in vivo. In vitro, transduction of HCC cell lines with the replication-deficient recombinant adenoviral vector AdCMV.NK4 resulted in significant inhibition of proliferation over and above the antimitogenic effects of HGF. In addition, HGF-induced scattering and invasion through matrigel were inhibited effectively. Moreover, transduced HCC cells produced sufficient amounts of NK4 protein to achieve bystander effects involving reduced migration of nontransduced tumor cells and reduced proliferation of endothelial cells. Finally, treatment of established HepG2 xenografts with AdCMV.NK4 resulted in significant tumor growth delay and significant reduction of intratumoral microvessel density. In conclusion, NK4 gene therapy is a promising strategy to treat HCC based on the pleiotropic functions of NK4 interfering with tumor growth, invasion, metastasis and angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniëlle A M Heideman
- Department of Pathology, VU University Medical Center, PO Box 7057, 1007 MB Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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17
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Murakami M, Nagai E, Mizumoto K, Saimura M, Ohuchida K, Inadome N, Matsumoto K, Nakamura T, Maemondo M, Nukiwa T, Tanaka M. Suppression of metastasis of human pancreatic cancer to the liver by transportal injection of recombinant adenoviral NK4 in nude mice. Int J Cancer 2005; 117:160-5. [PMID: 15880501 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.21143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
NK4, a 4-kringle fragment of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), is an HGF antagonist that also acts as an angiogenesis inhibitor. NK4 strongly inhibits the infiltration, metastasis, and tumor growth of pancreatic cancer. The aim of our study was to evaluate the antitumor effect of adenovirus-mediated NK4 gene transfer to the liver on hepatic metastasis of pancreatic cancer in vivo. We constructed recombinant adenoviral NK4 (Ad-NK4), which encodes a secreted form of human NK4. Intrasplenic injection of Ad-NK4 induced high and relatively maintained expression of NK4 protein in the liver and suppressed the number and growth of metastatic foci in the liver in a nude mouse model. Microscopically, central necrosis was found even in small metastatic foci in Ad-NK4 treated mice. Immunohistochemical analysis of metastatic tumors showed a remarkable decrease in microvessel density and an increase in the number of apoptotic tumor cells after treatment with Ad-NK4. These results indicate that intraportal injection of Ad-NK4 may be a useful therapeutic modality for the clinical control of hepatic metastasis in pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitsuhiko Murakami
- Department of Surgery and Oncology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
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18
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Matsumoto K, Nakamura T. Mechanisms and significance of bifunctional NK4 in cancer treatment. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2005; 333:316-27. [PMID: 15950947 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2005.05.131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2005] [Accepted: 05/24/2005] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Based on the background that hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and c-Met/HGF receptor tyrosine kinase play a definite role in tumor invasion and metastasis, NK4, four-kringles containing intramolecular fragment of HGF, was isolated as a competitive antagonist for the HGF-c-Met system. Independent of its HGF-antagonist action, NK4 inhibited angiogenesis induced by vascular endothelial cell growth factor and basic fibroblast growth factor, as well as HGF, indicating that NK4 is a bifunctional molecule that acts as an HGF-antagonist and angiogenesis inhibitor. Interestingly, kringle domains in distinct types of proteins, e.g., plasminogen, prothrombin, plasminogen activators, apolipoprotein(a), and HGF, share angioinhibitory actions. In experimental models of distinct types of cancers, NK4 protein administration or NK4 gene therapy inhibited tumor invasion, metastasis, and angiogenesis-dependent tumor growth. Cancer treatment with NK4 may prove to suppress malignant tumors to be 'static' in both tumor growth and spreading, as based on biological characteristics of malignant tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kunio Matsumoto
- Division of Molecular Regenerative Medicine, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
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19
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Jiang WG, Martin TA, Parr C, Davies G, Matsumoto K, Nakamura T. Hepatocyte growth factor, its receptor, and their potential value in cancer therapies. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2005; 53:35-69. [PMID: 15607934 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2004.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 187] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/14/2004] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocyte growth factor plays multiple roles in cancer, by acting as a motility and invasion stimulating factor, promoting metastasis and tumour growth. Furthermore, it acts as a powerful angiogenic factor. The pivotal role of this factor in cancer has indicated HGF as being a potential target in cancer therapies. The past few years have seen rapid progress in developing tools in targeting HGF, in the context of cancer therapies, including development of antagonists, small compounds, antibodies and genetic approaches. The current article discusses the potential value of HGF and its receptor as targets in cancer therapies, the current development in anti-HGF research, and the clinical value of HGF in prognosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen G Jiang
- Metastasis and Angiogenesis Research Group, University Department of Surgery, Wales College of Medicine, Cardiff University, Heath Park, Cardiff CF14 4XN, UK.
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20
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Abstract
Angiogenesis, the development of new blood vessels from the existing vasculature, and haemostasis, the coagulation cascade leading to formation of a clot, are among the most consistent host responses associated with cancer. Importantly, these two pathways interrelate, with blood coagulation and fibrinolysis influencing tumor angiogenesis directly, thereby contributing to tumor growth. Moreover, many endogenous inhibitors of angiogenesis are found within platelets or harboured as cryptic fragments of haemostatic proteins. In this review we outline ways in which angiogenesis is coordinated and regulated by haemostasis in human cancer. Then we detail the experimental and pre-clinical evidence for the ability of many of these endogenous proteins to inhibit tumor angiogenesis and thus their potential to be anti-cancer agents, with particular reference to any clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn A Staton
- Microcirculation Research Group, University of Sheffield Medical School, Sheffield, S10 2RX, UK
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21
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Wen J, Matsumoto K, Taniura N, Tomioka D, Nakamura T. Hepatic gene expression of NK4, an HGF-antagonist/angiogenesis inhibitor, suppresses liver metastasis and invasive growth of colon cancer in mice. Cancer Gene Ther 2004; 11:419-30. [PMID: 15017381 DOI: 10.1038/sj.cgt.7700705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) is involved in malignant behavior of cancer cells by enhancing invasion and metastasis. We earlier found that NK4, a four-kringle fragment of HGF, functions as both an HGF antagonist and an angiogenesis inhibitor. We have now carried out studies to determine if hydrodynamics-based delivery and expression of the NK4 gene would inhibit liver metastasis and invasive growth of colon carcinoma cells in mice. When the naked plasmid for NK4 was introduced into mice by hydrodynamics-based gene delivery, a high level of expression of NK4 was predominant in the liver. After intrasplenic inoculation of MC-38 murine colon carcinoma cells, the cells formed numerous metastatic nodules in the liver and showed invasive growth behavior. On the other hand, when mice were given the NK4 plasmid, hepatic gene expression of NK4 inhibited the liver metastasis and subsequent growth associated with a decrease in microvessel density. Likewise, intrahepatic invasion of cancer cells was inhibited by NK4 gene expression, and this anti-invasive effect was associated with in situ inhibition of c-Met receptor tyrosine phosphorylation. Moreover, NK4 gene expression prolonged survival of these mice. Taken together with the knowledge that the majority of deaths from colon cancer are due to liver metastasis, the potential therapeutic use of hepatic gene expression of NK4 for metastatic colon cancer treatment can be given consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinhua Wen
- Division of Molecular Regenerative Medicine, Course of Advanced Medicine, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, Japan
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22
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Manabe T, Okino H, Tanaka M, Matsuda T. In situ-formed, tissue-adhesive co-gel composed of styrenated gelatin and styrenated antibody: potential use for local anti-cytokine antibody therapy on surgically resected tissues. Biomaterials 2004; 25:5867-73. [PMID: 15172499 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2004.01.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2003] [Accepted: 01/20/2004] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Styrenated antibody (ST-Ab) and styrenated gelatin (ST-gelatin) were prepared by condensation reaction of antibody or gelatin with 4-vinylbenzoic acid, respectively. The affinity loss of ST-Ab to its antigen was minimal. ST-Ab and ST-gelatin were copolymerized with by visible-light irradiation in the presence of a water-soluble camphorquinone as a photoinitiator to produce a tissue-adhesive, in situ-formed co-gel of ST-gelatin and ST-Ab. The amount of non-reacted ST-Ab released from the co-gel of ST-gelatin and ST-Ab into the medium was minimal. The confocal laser scanning microscopy observation showed that local accumulation of rhodamine-labeled bovine serum albumin (BSA) as a model antigen was noticed in the surface-to-subsurface region of the co-gel of ST-gelatin and anti-BSA ST-Ab, indicating that the gel prevented the permeation of BSA into the gel. In invasion double chamber assay using anti-hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) antibody, the co-gel prevented HGF-dependent invasion of pancreatic cancer cells. The discussion was made for potential application of an in situ-formed tissue-adhesive co-gel of ST-gelatin and ST-Ab, developed in this study, as a cytokine-barrier on a surgically resected tissue where cancer cells might still remain after resection of cancerous tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatsuya Manabe
- Division of Surgery and Oncology, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
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23
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Manabe T, Okino H, Maeyama R, Mizumoto K, Nagai E, Tanaka M, Matsuda T. Novel strategic therapeutic approaches for prevention of local recurrence of pancreatic cancer after resection: trans-tissue, sustained local drug-delivery systems. J Control Release 2004; 100:317-30. [PMID: 15567499 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2004.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2004] [Accepted: 09/15/2004] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Local recurrence and hepatic metastasis are still the major causes of death of patients who have undergone resection for pancreatic cancer. To decrease the incidence of local recurrence, we have proposed and devised several trans-tissue and local delivery systems, all of which could be applied immediately after surgery at the resected sites: (1) System I: a drug-loaded photocured gelatinous tissue-adhesive gel (bioactive substance reservoir) that enables the sustained release of a drug, protein, or gene-encoding adenovirus, (2) System II: an anti-cytokine antibody-fixed photocured gelatinous, tissue-adhesive gel (cytokine barrier) that prevents cytokine permeation into the resected tissue, (3) System III: a gene-modified cell sheet that enables the sustained release of a very costly protein produced by gene-transduced cells and (4) System IV: a percutaneous drug-delivery device that enables continuous drug infusion and easy removal from the body. This review article is a summary of our several years of efforts and attempts, which are composed of integrated disciplines including active biomaterials and genetic- and tissue-engineerings, to overcome the recurrence of pancreatic cancer. Here, we outline our proposed strategies and therapeutic devices/materials and discuss their potential therapeutic effectiveness, promises and challenges in the clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatsuya Manabe
- Division of Biomedical Engineering, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
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24
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Christensen JG, Burrows J, Salgia R. c-Met as a target for human cancer and characterization of inhibitors for therapeutic intervention. Cancer Lett 2004; 225:1-26. [PMID: 15922853 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2004.09.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 413] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2004] [Accepted: 09/29/2004] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) targeted agents such as trastuzumab, imatinib, bevacizumab, and gefitinib inhibitors have illustrated the utility of targeting this protein class for treatment of selected cancers. A unique member of the RTK family, c-Met, also represents an intriguing target for cancer therapy that is yet to be explored in a clinical setting. The proto-oncogene, c-Met, encodes the high-affinity receptor for hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) or scatter factor (SF). c-Met and HGF are each required for normal mammalian development and have been shown to be particularly important in cell migration, morphogenic differentiation, and organization of three-dimensional tubular structures (e.g. renal tubular cells, gland formation, etc.) as well as cell growth and angiogenesis. Both c-Met and HGF have been shown to be deregulated in and to correlate with poor prognosis in a number of major human cancers. New data describing the constitutive phosphorylation of c-Met in a number of human tumors is presented here along with a variety of mechanisms by which c-Met can become activated, including mutation and gene amplification. In support of the clinical data implicating c-Met activation in the pathogenesis of human cancers, introduction of c-Met and HGF (or mutant c-Met) into cells conferred the properties of motility, invasiveness, and tumorgenicity to the transformed cells. Conversely, the inhibition of c-Met with a variety of receptor antagonists inhibited the motility, invasiveness, and tumorgenicity of human tumor cell lines. Consistent with this observation, small-molecule inhibitors of c-Met were developed that antagonized c-Met/HGF-dependent phenotypes and tumor growth in mouse models. This review will address the potential for development of c-Met inhibitors for treatment of human cancers with particular emphasis on recent findings with small-molecule inhibitors.
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25
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Ueda K, Iwahashi M, Matsuura I, Nakamori M, Nakamura M, Ojima T, Naka T, Ishida K, Matsumoto K, Nakamura T, Yamaue H. Adenoviral-mediated gene transduction of the hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) antagonist, NK4, suppresses peritoneal metastases of gastric cancer in nude mice. Eur J Cancer 2004; 40:2135-42. [PMID: 15341989 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2004.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2003] [Revised: 04/27/2004] [Accepted: 05/07/2004] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The competitive inhibitory effects of NK4 (a specific hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)-antagonist) on the interaction between HGF and the c-Met/HGF receptor has been shown in HGF-mediated invasion of some distinct types of human cancer cells. Furthermore, NK4 has inhibitory effects on the angiogenic pathways driven by basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), as well as by HGF. In this study, to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of adenoviral-mediated NK4 gene treatment, we employed animal models of peritoneal metastasis using two gastric cancer cell lines, the strongly c-Met expressing MKN45 cell line and the weakly c-Met-expressing cell line, TMK1. In both models, the total number and weight of peritoneal tumours per mouse and ascites treated early with AxCANK4 (administered 3 times 2, 7 and 12 days after the tumour inoculation) were significantly reduced compared with those treated with phosphate-buffered solution (PBS) and AxCALacZ (P < 0.05). In Factor-VIII-related-antigen-stained sections from peritoneal metastatic tumours, the inhibition of intratumour vessels was observed in tissues from tumours of MKN45 and TMK1 treated with AxCANK4. We also compared the therapeutic effect of early AxCANK4 treatment with that of late treatment (at 7, 12 and 17 days). Peritoneal metastases and ascites treated late with AxCANK4 showed less of an improvement than those treated early with AxCANK4 in both models. In addition, the inhibitory effect of cisplatin (CDDP) on peritoneal metastasis was significantly enhanced by AxCANK4, suggesting that the combination of intraperitoneal (i.p.) chemotherapy with NK4 gene therapy might be effective, even in cases of advanced peritoneal metastasis from gastric cancer. To conclude, these results show clearly that NK4 gene therapy inhibits peritoneal metastases from gastric cancer, regardless of the level of c-Met/HGF receptor expression in the tumour cells, and especially in the early stages of peritoneal metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kentaro Ueda
- Second Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Wakayama Medical University, 811-1 Kimiidera, 641-8510, Japan
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26
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Kushibiki T, Matsumoto K, Nakamura T, Tabata Y. Suppression of tumor metastasis by NK4 plasmid DNA released from cationized gelatin. Gene Ther 2004; 11:1205-14. [PMID: 15103321 DOI: 10.1038/sj.gt.3302285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
NK4, composed of the NH(2)-terminal hairpin and subsequent four-kringle domains of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), acts as an HGF-antagonist and angiogenesis inhibitor. This study is an investigation to evaluate the feasibility of controlled release formulation of NK4 plasmid DNA in suppressing the tumor growth, and lung metastasis. Biodegradable cationized gelatin microspheres were prepared for the controlled release of an NK4 plasmid DNA. The cationized gelatin microspheres incorporating NK4 plasmid DNA could continuously release plasmid DNA over 28 days as a result of microspheres degradation following the subcutaneous injection. The injection of cationized gelatin microspheres incorporating NK4 plasmid DNA into the subcutaneous tissue significantly prolonged the survival time period of the mice bearing Lewis lung carcinoma tumor. Increases in the tumor volume and the number of lung metastatic nodules of NK4 plasmid DNA release group were suppressed to a significantly greater extent than that of solution-injected group (77.4 and 64.0%, respectively). The number of blood vessels and the apoptosis cells in the tumor tissue were significantly suppressed (80.4%) and increased (127.3%) against free NK4 plasmid DNA-injected group. Thus, the controlled release of NK4 plasmid DNA augmented angiogenesis suppression and apoptosis of tumor cells, which resulted in suppressed tumor growth. We conclude that this controlled release technology is promising to enhance the tumor suppression achieved by gene expression of NK4.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Kushibiki
- Department of Biomaterials, Institute for Frontier Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan
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27
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Suzuki A, Nakauchi H, Taniguchi H. Prospective isolation of multipotent pancreatic progenitors using flow-cytometric cell sorting. Diabetes 2004; 53:2143-52. [PMID: 15277399 DOI: 10.2337/diabetes.53.8.2143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 181] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
During pancreatic development, neogenesis, and regeneration, stem cells might act as a central player to generate endocrine, acinar, and duct cells. Although these cells are well known as pancreatic stem cells (PSCs), indisputable proof of their existence has not been reported. Identification of phenotypic markers for PSCs leads to their prospective isolation and precise characterization to clear whether stem cells exist in the pancreas. By combining flow cytometry and clonal analysis, we show here that a possible pancreatic stem or progenitor cell candidate that resides in the developing and adult mouse pancreas expresses the receptor for the hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) c-Met, but does not express hematopoietic and vascular endothelial antigens such as CD45, TER119, c-Kit, and Flk-1. These cells formed clonal colonies in vitro and differentiated into multiple pancreatic lineage cells from single cells. Some of them could largely expand with self-renewing cell divisions in culture, and, following cell transplantation, they differentiated into pancreatic endocrine and acinar cells in vivo. Furthermore, they produced cells expressing multiple markers of nonpancreatic organs including liver, stomach, and intestine in vitro. Our data strongly suggest that c-Met/HGF signaling plays an important role in stem/progenitor cell function in both developing and adult pancreas. By using this antigen, PSCs could be isolated prospectively, enabling a detailed investigation of stem cell markers and application toward regenerative therapies for diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsushi Suzuki
- Gene Expression Laboratories, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, California, USA
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28
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Wang SY, Chen B, Zhan YQ, Xu WX, Li CY, Yang RF, Zheng H, Yue PB, Larsen SH, Sun HB, Yang X. SU5416 is a potent inhibitor of hepatocyte growth factor receptor (c-Met) and blocks HGF-induced invasiveness of human HepG2 hepatoma cells. J Hepatol 2004; 41:267-73. [PMID: 15288476 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2004.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2003] [Revised: 03/31/2004] [Accepted: 04/08/2004] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS SU5416 is a potent inhibitor of receptor tyrosine kinases, including those of the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor, stem cell factor receptor, and platelet-derived growth factor receptor. Because of the overwhelming evidence favoring the role of aberrant hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)/Met signaling in the pathogenesis of various human cancers, various inhibitor strategies have been employed to therapeutically target this receptor. METHODS Cell proliferation was determined by incorporation of [(3)H] thymidine. Invasiveness was assayed in Boyden Chambers with 8 microm Matrigel coated filters. Phosphorylation of ERK1/2, Akt by HGF stimulation was detected by Western blotting. RESULTS We found that SU5416 inhibited motility scattering and the invasive activity of a hepatocellular carcinoma cell line HepG2 in vitro and growth in primary cultured hepatocytes induced by HGF. Consequently, tyrosine autophosphorylation of the c-met induced by HGF was inhibited in these cells by SU5416 in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, ERK1/2 and Akt phosphorylation, the signaling events down-stream of c-met activation were reduced. Moreover, SU5416 caused reversion in NIH3T3 fibroblasts transformed by the oncogenic form of the receptor, Tpr-Met. CONCLUSIONS Inhibition of various solid tumors growth and metastasis by SU5416 may be partially attributed to blocking activation of the hepatocyte growth factor receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si Y Wang
- Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, 27 Taiping Road, Beijing, 100850, People's Republic of China
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Wright TG, Tsai J, Jia Z, Elliott BE. Inhibition by Copper(II) Binding of Hepatocyte Growth Factor (HGF) Interaction with Its Receptor Met and Blockade of HGF/Met Function. J Biol Chem 2004; 279:32499-506. [PMID: 15161915 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m405043200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Overexpression of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and its receptor Met often occurs in carcinoma cells, leading to establishment of an HGF/Met autocrine loop. Therefore, disruption of the HGF/Met autocrine loop may lead to down-regulation of tumorigenesis. To study the HGF/Met interaction, we have developed a cell-free system to detect HGF binding to a Met fusion protein, Met-IgG, using a modified enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay methodology. Since we previously showed that HGF can be purified by copper(II) affinity chromatography, we further explored the effect of copper(II) on the HGF/Met interaction. The divalent metal cations copper(II) and zinc(II) significantly inhibited HGF binding to immobilized Met-IgG with IC(50) values of 230-270 microM, respectively, whereas manganese(II) and magnesium(II) were less inhibitory with 20-60-fold higher IC(50) values. Incubation of 1 mM copper(II) with HGF resulted in nondenaturing and denaturing gel-mobility shifts, indicating that copper(II) binds directly to HGF. This interaction occurs at the N terminus of HGF, as incubation of 1 mM copper(II) with both HGF and the HGF derivative NK1 yielded similar results on SDS-PAGE. HGF-induced activation of Met and cell scattering were inhibited upon addition of HGF in the presence of 1 mM and 500 microM copper(II), respectively. Chemical protonation with diethyl pyrocarbonate of HGF histidine residues impeded the ability of 500 microM copper(II) to inhibit the binding of HGF to immobilized Met-IgG. Based on the NK1 domain structure, we propose that copper(II) may interact with HGF via the histidine residues in either N-terminal or kringle domains. The inhibition of HGF/Met interaction and subsequent downstream cellular functions may be through direct interference by copper(II), such as a change in charge or an induced local conformational change. This putative copper(II) binding domain may be the basis for developing potential inhibitors of HGF/Met binding and downstream functions and could lead to novel strategies for anti-cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theodore G Wright
- Cancer Research Institute, Division of Cancer Biology and Genetics, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
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30
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Abstract
Originally discovered in 1994 by Folkman and coworkers, angiostatin was identified through its antitumor effects in mice and later shown to be a potent inhibitor of angiogenesis. An internal fragment of plasminogen, angiostatin consists of kringle domains that are known to be lysine-binding. The crystal structure of angiostatin was the first multikringle domain-containing structure to be published. This review will focus on what is known about the structure of angiostatin and its implications in function from the current literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- J H Geiger
- Department of Chemistry, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA.
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31
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Davies G, Mason MD, Martin TA, Parr C, Watkins G, Lane J, Matsumoto K, Nakamura T, Jiang WG. The HGF/SF antagonist NK4 reverses fibroblast- and HGF-induced prostate tumor growth and angiogenesis in vivo. Int J Cancer 2003; 106:348-54. [PMID: 12845672 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.11220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Our study examined the in vitro and in vivo responses of a newly discovered HGF/SF antagonist, NK4, on HGF/SF-promoted growth of human prostate cancer cells (PC-3). Nude mice were s.c. injected with either PC-3- and/or HGF/SF-producing fibroblasts (MRC5), and tumor size was measured over a 4-week period. rh-HGF/SF and/or NK4 were introduced by osmotic minipumps. An in vitro study found that NK4 significantly suppressed HGF/SF-induced invasion (HGF/SF; p < 0.01 vs. HGF/SF+NK4) and migration (HGF/SF; p < 0.05 vs. HGF/SF+NK4). Similarly, NK4 also suppressed the invasion (MRC5; p < 0.01 vs. MRC5+NK4) and migration (MRC5; p < 0.05 vs. MRC5+NK4) induced by MRC5 cells. NK4 also suppressed HGF/SF- and MRC5-induced tyrosine phosphorylation of the HGF/SF receptor Met as assessed by immunoprecipitation. Using a nude mouse model, prostate tumor volume (mm(3)) was significantly increased in both HGF/SF- (HGF/SF; p < 0.05 vs. control) and MRC5- (MRC5; p < 0.01 vs. control) treated groups compared to the control. In contrast, NK4 alone significantly reduced the growth of prostate tumors (NK4; p < 0.01 vs. control). In addition, NK4 also suppressed both HGF/SF- (HGF/SF; p < 0.01 vs. HGF/SF+NK4) and MRC5- (MRC5; p < 0.05 vs. MRC5+NK4) induced tumor growth in vivo by significantly reducing (p < 0.05) the degree of tumor angiogenesis using a recently discovered family of tumor endothelial markers (TEMs) by Q-RT-PCR analysis. In conclusion, NK4 suppresses both HGF/SF- and MRC5-induced invasion/migration of PC-3 cells in vitro. Furthermore, the HGF/SF antagonist NK4 significantly reduces prostate tumor growth in vivo by inhibiting the degree of tumor angiogenesis as determined by TEM-1 and TEM-8. Finally, our study provides evidence of the therapeutic potential of NK4 in prostate cancer development by antagonising HGF/SF-mediated events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaynor Davies
- Metastasis Research Group, University Department of Surgery, University of Wales College of Medicine, Cardiff CF14 4XN, Wales, UK.
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32
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Martin TA, Parr C, Davies G, Watkins G, Lane J, Matsumoto K, Nakamura T, Mansel RE, Jiang WG. Growth and angiogenesis of human breast cancer in a nude mouse tumour model is reduced by NK4, a HGF/SF antagonist. Carcinogenesis 2003; 24:1317-23. [PMID: 12807719 DOI: 10.1093/carcin/bgg072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocyte growth factor/scatter factor (HGF/SF) is a cytokine primarily produced by stromal fibroblasts and is a known angiogenic and invasion-inducing factor. It is increased in patients with breast cancer. This study examined the effect of NK4, a newly described HGF/SF antagonist, on HGF/SF-promoted growth of a human breast cancer. Both in vitro (invasion and migration assays) and in vivo (murine tumour model) methods were used to ascertain the effect of NK4 on HGF/SF from two sources: human fibroblast-derived HGF/SF and recombinant HGF/SF. In the in vitro invasion assay and migration assay, both HGF/SF and human fibroblasts, which secrete bioactive HGF/SF, increased the invasiveness and migration of the breast cancer cells (MDA MB 231). NK4 significantly reduced this invasiveness and motility. In the animal model, tumour volume and weight was significantly reduced with addition of NK4. It also suppressed HGF/SF-induced growth and markedly retarded tumour growth induced by fibroblasts (MRC5), secreting bioactive HGF/SF. Tumour angiogenesis was assessed by immunohistochemical staining of primary tissue sections using VE-cadherin (an endothelial cell specific cell-cell adhesion molecule). Again, NK4 reduced the effects of both HGF/SF and fibroblasts. We conclude that NK4 has a significant effect on the growth of human breast tumours in nude mice, particularly when stimulated by HGF/SF or fibroblasts. This may occur by decreasing angiogenesis. This gives a clear indication of the therapeutic worth of NK4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracey A Martin
- Metastasis Research Group, University Department of Surgery, University of Wales College of Medicine, Heath Park, Cardiff CF14 4XN, UK.
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Matsumoto K, Nakamura T. NK4 (HGF-antagonist/angiogenesis inhibitor) in cancer biology and therapeutics. Cancer Sci 2003; 94:321-7. [PMID: 12824898 PMCID: PMC11160298 DOI: 10.1111/j.1349-7006.2003.tb01440.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2003] [Revised: 03/20/2003] [Accepted: 03/24/2003] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Invasion and subsequent establishment of metastasis are devastating events for patients with cancer, but past therapeutic approaches have paid relatively little attention to these important issues. Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and its receptor, the c-Met tyrosine kinase, play roles in cancer invasion and metastasis in a wide variety of tumor cells. Activation of the c-Met receptor integrates multiple signal transduction pathways involved in cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions, cellular migration, and breakdown of the extracellular scaffold. Paracrine activation of the c-Met receptor by stromal-derived HGF mediates tumor-stromal interactions that facilitate invasion and metastasis. Likewise, aberrant expression of the c-Met receptor and autocrine or mutational activation of c-Met receptor tyrosine kinase are closely associated with the progression of malignant tumors. Based on this background, NK4, a competitive antagonist of HGF-c-Met association was prepared so as to block cancer invasion and metastasis. NK4, an internal fragment of HGF, binds to but does not activate the c-Met receptor, thereby competitively antagonizing the biological activities of HGF. Unexpectedly, NK4 was subsequently shown to be an angiogenesis inhibitor as well, and this angioinhibitory activity is independent of its action as an HGF-antagonist. Importantly, NK4 protein or NK4 gene therapy have been shown to inhibit tumor invasion, metastasis and angiogenesis, effectively converting malignant tumors into benign tumors. Targeting tumor invasion-metastasis and angiogenesis with NK4 seems to have considerable therapeutic potential for cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kunio Matsumoto
- Division of Molecular Regenerative Medicine, Course of Advanced Medicine, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
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Saimura M, Nagai E, Mizumoto K, Maehara N, Okino H, Katano M, Matsumoto K, Nakamura T, Narumi K, Nukiwa T, Tanaka M. Intraperitoneal injection of adenovirus-mediated NK4 gene suppresses peritoneal dissemination of pancreatic cancer cell line AsPC-1 in nude mice. Cancer Gene Ther 2002; 9:799-806. [PMID: 12224019 DOI: 10.1038/sj.cgt.7700504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2002] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
NK4, composed of the N-terminal hairpin and subsequent four-kringle domains of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), acts not only as a competitive antagonist for HGF but also as a potent angiogenesis inhibitor. This study was designed to assess a therapeutic potential of adenovirus-mediated NK4 gene transfer for disseminated pancreatic cancer cells in the peritoneal lavage of nude mice. We constructed a recombinant adenovirus NK4 (Ad-NK4), which encodes a secretable form of human NK4. In vitro migration of AsPC-1 (human pancreatic cancer cell line) was stimulated by HGF, and it was completely inhibited by Ad-NK4 transfection. Weekly intraperitoneal injections of Ad-NK4 could suppress the development of tumor nodules in a nude mouse peritoneal dissemination model. NK4 expression was detected in the disseminated nodules, liver, pancreas, spleen, and mesenterium. Immunohistochemical study of the disseminated tumors showed a remarkable decrease in microvessel density and an increase in number of apoptotic tumor cells in the Ad-NK4-treated mice. Survival of the Ad-NK4-treated mice was significantly improved. This study indicates that the intraperitoneal transduction of adenovirus-mediated NK4 gene may be a useful therapeutic modality to prevent the development of peritoneal dissemination of pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michiyo Saimura
- Department of Surgery and Oncology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Maidashi, Fukuoka, Japan
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert J Mason
- Department of Medicine, National Jewish Medical and Research Center, Denver, Colorado 80110, USA.
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Maemondo M, Narumi K, Saijo Y, Usui K, Tahara M, Tazawa R, Hagiwara K, Matsumoto K, Nakamura T, Nukiwa T. Targeting angiogenesis and HGF function using an adenoviral vector expressing the HGF antagonist NK4 for cancer therapy. Mol Ther 2002; 5:177-85. [PMID: 11829525 DOI: 10.1006/mthe.2002.0533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) affects tumor growth/invasion and tumor neovascularization. A proposed HGF antagonist, NK4 (an amino-terminal kringle-domain peptide of HGF), inhibits tumor growth/invasion through the competition of HGF binding to its receptor, c-Met, and acts as an angiogenesis inhibitor. To investigate the in vivo effect of NK4 gene transfer, we constructed an adenovirus vector expressing human NK4 (AdCMV.NK4). Human lung cancer cell lines (A549 and H358) infected in vitro with AdCMV.NK4 yielded NK4 protein without a change in the cell growth rate. In contrast, direct injection of AdCMV.NK4 (1 x 10(9) pfu, twice) into established subcutaneous tumors in BALB/c nu/nu mice resulted in suppression of the tumors by 64% for A549 or by 91% for H358 compared with controls (P<0.02 or P<0.01, respectively). Counting of the tumor vessels revealed suppressed vascularity by 57% in H358 tumors when using AdCMV.NK4 (P<0.0001). Furthermore, systemic NK4 delivery by intraperitoneal injection of AdCMV.NK4 effectively suppressed both angiogenesis in the Matrigel assay (86% reduction, P<0.032), subcutaneous tumor growth in vivo (by 65% for H358, P<0.001), and hematogenous lung metastases without obvious side effects. These results indicate that NK4 elicits tumor-growth suppression in vivo through its anti-angiogenic activity and anti-HGF activity and that NK4 gene transfer can be an effective tool in the treatment of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Makoto Maemondo
- Department of Respiratory Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Institute of Development, Aging, and Cancer, Tohoku University, Sendai 980-8575, Japan
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Xie Q, Liu KD, Hu MY, Zhou K. SF/HGF-c-Met autocrine and paracrine promote metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma. World J Gastroenterol 2001; 7:816-20. [PMID: 11854908 PMCID: PMC4695601 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v7.i6.816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To explore the role of SF/HGF-Met autocrine and paracrine in met astasis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).
METHODS: SF/HGF and c-met transcri ption and protein expression in HCC were examined by RT-PCR and Western Blot in 4 HCC cell lines, including HepG2, Hep3B, SMMC7721 and MHCC-1, the last cell line had a higher potential of metastasis. sf/hgf cDNA was transfected by the method of Lipofectin into SMMC7721. SF/HGF and c-met antibody were used to stimulate and block SF/HGF-c-met signal transduction. Cell morphology, mobility, and proliferation were respectively compared by microscopic observation, wound healing assay and cell growth curve.
RESULTS: HCC malignancy appeared to be relative to its met-SF/HGF expression. In MHCC-1, c-met expression was much stronger than that in other cell lines with lower potential of metastasis and only SF/HG F autocrine existed in MHCC-1. After sf/hgf cDNA transfection or conditioned medium of MHCC-1 stimulation, SMMC7721 changed into elongated morphology, and the abilities of proliferation (P < 0.05) and mobility increased. Such bio-activity could be blocked by c-met antibody (P < 0.05).
CONCLUSION: The system of SF/HGF-c- met autocrine and paracrine played an important role in development and metastas is potential of HCC. Inhibition of SF/HGF-c-met signal transduction system may reduce the growth and metastasis of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Q Xie
- Experimental Research Center of Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
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Fazekas K, Janovics A, Döme B, Koska P, Albini A, Tímár J. Effect of HGF-like basic hexapeptides on angiogenesis. Microvasc Res 2001; 62:440-4. [PMID: 11678646 DOI: 10.1006/mvre.2001.2354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The interaction of glycosaminoglycans (GAG) with peptides relies on noncovalent binding to basic amino acid sequences, for which a minimal requirement is a pentapeptide region in the protein and the sulfated and carboxyl region in the GAG. Since such sequences are present in the heparin-binding angiogenic cytokines, including hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), we have postulated that such small peptides may have biological activity. Two basic peptide regions of the beta chain of HGF (RYRNKH512-516, HHRGK645-649) exhibited significant antiangiogenic activity in vivo in the chorioallantoic membrane assay and showed some antiproliferative activity in vitro on normal human brain microvessel endothelial-but not on anchorage-independent endothelial-cells (Kaposi sarcoma). Basic HIV-TAT peptides and scrambled hexapeptides did not show similar activity, except for KRKRKR, indicating sequence specificity of the phenomena. An HGF-derived basic peptide, HHRGK, modulated tumor-induced angiogenesis in vivo by interfering with the morphogenic, but not with the proliferative, phase of the process. These observations suggest small basic peptides as a new class of angiogenesis modulators.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Fazekas
- Department of Tumor Progression, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, H-1122, Hungary
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