1
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Zhang J, Deng YT, Liu J, Gan L, Jiang Y. Role of transforming growth factor-β1 pathway in angiogenesis induced by chronic stress in colorectal cancer. Cancer Biol Ther 2024; 25:2366451. [PMID: 38857055 PMCID: PMC11168221 DOI: 10.1080/15384047.2024.2366451] [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: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic stress can induce stress-related hormones; norepinephrine (NE) is considered to have the highest potential in cancer. NE can stimulate the expression of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α), which is associated with vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) secretion and tumor angiogenesis. However, the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. METHODS Tumor-bearing mice were subjected to chronic restraint stress and treated with normal saline, human monoclonal VEGF-A neutralizing antibody bevacizumab, or β-adrenergic receptor (β-AR) antagonist (propranolol). Tumor growth and vessel density were also evaluated. Human colorectal adenocarcinoma cells were treated with NE, propranolol, or the inhibitor of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) receptor Type I kinase (Ly2157299) in vitro. TGF-β1 in mouse serum and cell culture supernatants was quantified using ELISA. The expression of HIF-1α was measured using Real time-PCR and western blotting. Cell migration and invasion were tested. RESULTS Chronic restraint stress attenuated the efficacy of bevacizumab and promoted tumor growth and angiogenesis in a colorectal tumor model. Propranolol blocked this effect and inhibited TGF-β1 elevation caused by chronic restraint stress or NE. NE upregulated HIF-1α expression, which was reversed by propranolol or Ly2157299. Propranolol and Ly2157199 blocked NE-stimulated cancer cell migration and invasion. CONCLUSIONS Our results demonstrate the effect of NE on tumor angiogenesis and the critical role of TGF-β1 signaling during this process. In addition, β-AR/TGF-β1 signaling/HIF-1α/VEGF is a potential signaling pathway. This study also indicates that psychosocial stress might be a risk factor which weakens the efficacy of anti-angiogenic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Zhang
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yao-Tiao Deng
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jie Liu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lu Gan
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yu Jiang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
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2
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Wang T, Zhang Q, Wang N, Liu Z, Zhang B, Zhao Y. Research Progresses of Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Curr Med Chem 2021; 28:3107-3146. [PMID: 33050856 DOI: 10.2174/0929867327666201013162144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignant tumors worldwide, with nearly one million new cases and deaths every year. Owing to the complex pathogenesis, hidden early symptoms, rapidly developing processes, and poor prognosis, the morbidity and mortality of HCC are increasing yearly. With the progress being made in modern medicine, the treatment of HCC is no longer limited to traditional methods. Targeted therapy and immunotherapy have emerged to treat advanced and metastatic HCC in recent years. Since Sorafenib is the first molecular targeting drug against angiogenesis, targeted drugs for HCC are continually emerging. Moreover, immunotherapy plays a vital role in clinical trials. In particular, the application of immune checkpoint inhibitors, which have received increasing attention in the field of cancer treatment, is a possible research path. Interestingly, these two therapies generally complement each other at some stages of HCC, bringing new hope for patients with advanced HCC. In this paper, we discuss the research progress of targeted therapy and immunotherapy for HCC in recent years, which will provide a reference for the further development of drugs for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Wang
- Institute of Drug Discovery Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, China
| | - Qiting Zhang
- Institute of Drug Discovery Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, China
| | - Ning Wang
- Institute of Drug Discovery Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, China
| | - Ziqi Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, the PLA Rocket Force Characteristic Medical Center, Beijing 100088, China
| | - Bin Zhang
- Li Dak Sum Yip Yio Chin Kenneth Li Marine Biopharmaceutical Research Center, Department of Marine Pharmacy, College of Food and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, China
| | - Yufen Zhao
- Institute of Drug Discovery Technology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang 315211, China
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3
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Wei J, Ye L, Song L, Tang H, Zhang T, Fu B, Zhang Y, Yang Q, Yang Y, Yi S. TSC1/2 mutations-a unique type of mutation suitable for liver transplantation of Hepatocellular carcinoma. J Gastrointest Oncol 2021; 12:1074-1085. [PMID: 34295558 DOI: 10.21037/jgo-20-378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the prognosis of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after liver transplantation and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway-related genes-TSC1/2. Methods We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 46 patients who underwent liver transplantation for HCC and performed next generation sequencing to analyze the relationship between the efficacy of sirolimus after liver transplantation for HCC and mutations in mTOR pathway-related genes, especially tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) mutations. Results The average age of 46 patients with liver transplantation for HCC was 51±21 years. After surgery, 35 patients received an anti-rejection/anti-tumor regimen that included sirolimus, and 11 patients did not receive sirolimus. There was no significant difference in survival rate between the two groups (P=0.761). The gene sequencing results showed mTOR-related pathway mutations in 10 patients, of whom five (10.9%) had TSC1/2 mutations. Of the 35 patients using sirolimus, those with mTOR-related mutations had significantly better survival rates than patients without mTOR-related mutations (P=0.016). Conclusions According to genetic sequencing results, a personalized treatment plan for specific genetic mutations should be selected in patients undergoing liver transplantation for HCC. Patients with mTOR-related gene mutations, especially TSC mutations, can gain significant benefits from the use of mTOR inhibitors such as sirolimus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinming Wei
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Guangzhou, China
| | - Linsen Ye
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Guangzhou, China
| | - Laien Song
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Liver Disease Research, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hui Tang
- Department of Hepatic Surgery and Liver Transplantation Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tong Zhang
- Department of Hepatic Surgery and Liver Transplantation Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Binsheng Fu
- Department of Hepatic Surgery and Liver Transplantation Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yingcai Zhang
- Department of Hepatic Surgery and Liver Transplantation Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qing Yang
- Department of Hepatic Surgery and Liver Transplantation Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Department of Hepatic Surgery and Liver Transplantation Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shuhong Yi
- Department of Hepatic Surgery and Liver Transplantation Center, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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4
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Gong C, Hu Y, Zhou M, Yao M, Ning Z, Wang Z, Ren J. Identification of specific modules and hub genes associated with the progression of gastric cancer. Carcinogenesis 2020; 40:1269-1277. [PMID: 30805585 DOI: 10.1093/carcin/bgz040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2018] [Revised: 02/01/2019] [Accepted: 02/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) has high morbidity and mortality rates worldwide. Abundant literature has reported several individual genes and their related pathways intimately involved in tumor progression. However, little is known about GC progression at the gene network level. Therefore, understanding the underlying mechanisms of pathological transition from early stage to late stage is urgently needed. This study aims to identify potential vital genes and modules involved in the progression of GC. To understand the gene regulatory network of GC progression, we analyzed micro RNAs and messenger RNA s expression profiles by using a couple of bioinformatics tools. miR-205 was identified by differentially expressed analysis and was further confirmed through using multiple kernel learning-based Kronecker regularized least squares. Using weighted gene co-expression network analysis, the gastric cancer progression-related module, which has the highest correlation value with cancer progression, was obtained. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways and biological processes of the GCPR module genes were related to cell adhesion. Meanwhile, large-scale genes of GCPR module were found to be targeted by miR-205, including two hub genes SORBS1 and LPAR1. In brief, through multiple analytical methods, we found that miR-205 and the GCPR module play critical roles in GC progression. In addition, miR-205 might maintain cell adhesion by regulating SORBS1 and LPAR1. To screen the potential drug candidates, the gene expression profile of the GCPR module was mapped connectivity map (Cmap), and the mTOR inhibitor (Sirolimus) was found to be the most promising candidate. We further confirmed that Sirolimus can suppress cell proliferation of GC cell in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Congcong Gong
- School of Food Science and Technology, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yang Hu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Mao Zhou
- Department of Anesthesiology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Maojin Yao
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Cancer Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Zhengxiang Ning
- School of Food Science and Technology, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhi Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jiaoyan Ren
- School of Food Science and Technology, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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Santopaolo F, Lenci I, Milana M, Manzia TM, Baiocchi L. Liver transplantation for hepatocellular carcinoma: Where do we stand? World J Gastroenterol 2019; 25:2591-2602. [PMID: 31210712 PMCID: PMC6558441 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v25.i21.2591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2019] [Revised: 04/09/2019] [Accepted: 04/29/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma represents an important cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. It is the sixth most common cancer and the fourth leading cause of cancer death. Liver transplantation is a key tool for the treatment of this disease in human therefore hepatocellular carcinoma is increasing as primary indication for grafting. Although liver transplantation represents an outstanding therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma, due to organ shortage, the careful selection and management of patients who may have a major survival benefit after grafting remains a fundamental question. In fact, only some stages of the disease seem amenable of this therapeutic option, stimulating the debate on the appropriate criteria to select candidates. In this review we focused on current criteria to select patients with hepatocellular carcinoma for liver transplantation as well as on the strategies (bridging) to avoid disease progression and exclusion from grafting during the stay on wait list. The treatments used to bring patients within acceptable criteria (down-staging), when their tumor burden exceeds the standard criteria for transplant, are also reported. Finally, we examined tumor reappearance following liver transplantation. This occurrence is estimated to be approximately 8%-20% in different studies. The possible approaches to prevent this outcome after transplant are reported with the corresponding results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Santopaolo
- Hepatology Unit, Department of Medicine, Policlinico Universitario Tor Vergata, Rome 00133, Italy
| | - Ilaria Lenci
- Hepatology Unit, Department of Medicine, Policlinico Universitario Tor Vergata, Rome 00133, Italy
| | - Martina Milana
- Hepatology Unit, Department of Medicine, Policlinico Universitario Tor Vergata, Rome 00133, Italy
| | - Tommaso Maria Manzia
- Transplant Surgery Unit, Department of Surgery, Policlinico Universitario Tor Vergata, Rome 00133, Italy
| | - Leonardo Baiocchi
- Hepatology Unit, Department of Medicine, Policlinico Universitario Tor Vergata, Rome 00133, Italy
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6
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Abstract
Liver transplantation is the definitive treatment for patients with end-stage liver disease. Liver transplantation is also the optimal treatment for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), especially in the setting of chronic liver disease. Unfortunately, due to the worldwide shortage of organs, this treatment is not available for all patients with HCC. Strict selection criteria have been developed in order to obtain optimal results. A surgical perspective of the preoperative selection, perioperative management, and postoperative care of patients is reviewed in depth and provides an overview for obtaining optimal long-term results from liver transplantation for HCC. With rigorous selection and patient management, excellent long-term outcomes can be obtained with liver transplantation for patients with HCC.
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7
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Wu MY, Yiang GT, Cheng PW, Chu PY, Li CJ. Molecular Targets in Hepatocarcinogenesis and Implications for Therapy. J Clin Med 2018; 7:jcm7080213. [PMID: 30104473 PMCID: PMC6112027 DOI: 10.3390/jcm7080213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2018] [Revised: 08/07/2018] [Accepted: 08/10/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocarcinogenesis comprises of multiple, complex steps that occur after liver injury and usually involve several pathways, including telomere dysfunction, cell cycle, WNT/β-catenin signaling, oxidative stress and mitochondria dysfunction, autophagy, apoptosis, and AKT/mTOR signaling. Following liver injury, gene mutations, accumulation of oxidative stress, and local inflammation lead to cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, and necrosis. The persistence of this vicious cycle in turn leads to further gene mutation and dysregulation of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-10, IL-12, IL-13, IL-18, and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β, resulting in immune escape by means of the NF-κB and inflammasome signaling pathways. In this review, we summarize studies focusing on the roles of hepatocarcinogenesis and the immune system in liver cancer. In addition, we furnish an overview of recent basic and clinical studies to provide a strong foundation to develop novel anti-carcinogenesis targets for further treatment interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Yu Wu
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Taipei Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, New Taipei City 231, Taiwan.
- Department of Emergency Medicine, School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien 970, Taiwan.
| | - Giuo-Teng Yiang
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Taipei Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, New Taipei City 231, Taiwan.
- Department of Emergency Medicine, School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien 970, Taiwan.
| | - Pei-Wen Cheng
- Yuh-Ing Junior College of Health Care & Management, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan.
- Department of Medical Education and Research, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung 813, Taiwan.
| | - Pei-Yi Chu
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City 231, Taiwan.
- Department of Pathology, Show Chwan Memorial Hospital, Changhua 500, Taiwan.
- National Institute of Cancer Research, National Health Research Institutes, Miaoli 704, Taiwan.
| | - Chia-Jung Li
- Research Assistant Center, Show Chwan Memorial Hospital, Changhua 500, Taiwan.
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8
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Kang Z, Xiao E. Expression of cluster of differentiation 151 prior to and following transcatheter arterial chemoembolization therapy in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma and its association with clinicopathological characteristics. Oncol Lett 2018; 15:1133-1142. [PMID: 29391901 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2017.7371] [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: 11/14/2016] [Accepted: 09/13/2017] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Cluster of differentiation (CD)151, a member of tetraspanin family, is considered to be the first tetraspanin to be associated with tumor metastasis. Previous studies in vivo, in vitro and in the clinic have demonstrated that CD151 is involved in tumor progression at different levels through interaction with integrins, growth factor receptors and matrix metalloproteinases. Transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) is widely recommended for the treatment of patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) worldwide. It has been hypothesized that TACE may create a hypoxic-ischemic environment that increases the expression of tumor progression-associated factors, promotes the angiogenesis of HCC, and initiates the recurrence and metastasis of HCC. Whether TACE promotes HCC progression remains controversial and numerous studies have focused on the influence of TACE on a number of tumor progression-associated factors. In the present study, the expression of serum CD151 in patients with HCC prior to and following TACE and its association with clinicopathological characteristics was investigated. It was revealed that the expression level of CD151 at 5-7 days post-TACE was significantly increased compared with pre-TACE levels. Risk factors and protective factors associated with tumor progression following a single TACE procedure and 18 months of follow-up were also identified. Furthermore, the present study revealed that a pre-TACE CD151 level of >0.3247 ng/ml and a 5-7 days post-TACE CD151 level of >0.3146 ng/ml revealed moderate sensitivity and specificity for predicting HCC progression following a single TACE procedure. The present study highlights CD151 as a useful marker in predicting the response to treatment and monitoring the disease course following TACE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Kang
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, P.R. China
| | - Enhua Xiao
- Department of Radiology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410000, P.R. China
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9
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Pfiffer TEF, Seehofer D, Nicolaou A, Neuhaus R, Riess H, Trappe RU. Recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma in liver transplant recipients: Parameters affecting time to recurrence, treatment options and survival in the sorafenib era. TUMORI JOURNAL 2018; 97:436-41. [DOI: 10.1177/030089161109700404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Background A growing number of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma undergo liver transplantation, but there is little data on recurrence and its treatment in the posttransplant setting. Methods This article presents a retrospective analysis of adult hepatocellular carcinoma patients. The aim of the study was to characterize the clinical pattern of posttransplant hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence, treatment options in recurrence and overall survival after liver transplantation and after recurrence. Results A total of 139 patients with histological proven hepatocellular carcinoma was included in the study. The median follow-up after liver transplantation was 37.2 months. Twenty-four of 139 patients experienced a recurrence. In 72.7% of the cases, the hepatocellular carcinoma recurred outside the transplant. Median overall survival after recurrence was 23.1 months. A total of 68.2% of patients received a mean of 2.2 treatments for posttransplant hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence. While on treatment with sorafenib, the use of mTOR inhibitors and radiotherapy had no statistically significant effect on overall survival, complete surgical resection of metastatic lesions significantly improved overall survival. Non-resectable patients with isolated hepatic relapse also benefited from local control strategies. Conclusions Posttransplant hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence frequently is located outside the transplant, and despite the proven efficacy of sorafenib, complete surgical resection of metastatic lesions remains the hallmark of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tulio EF Pfiffer
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Tumor Immunology, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Berlin, Germany
| | - Daniel Seehofer
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Berlin, Germany
| | - Annett Nicolaou
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Tumor Immunology, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ruth Neuhaus
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Berlin, Germany
| | - Hanno Riess
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Tumor Immunology, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ralf U Trappe
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Tumor Immunology, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, Berlin, Germany
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10
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Bowyer C, Lewis AL, Lloyd AW, Phillips GJ, Macfarlane WM. Hypoxia as a target for drug combination therapy of liver cancer. Anticancer Drugs 2017; 28:771-780. [PMID: 28542038 PMCID: PMC5515631 DOI: 10.1097/cad.0000000000000516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2017] [Accepted: 04/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third most frequent cause of cancer deaths worldwide. The standard of care for intermediate HCC is transarterial chemoembolization, which combines tumour embolization with locoregional delivery of the chemotherapeutic doxorubicin. Embolization therapies induce hypoxia, leading to the escape and proliferation of hypoxia-adapted cancer cells. The transcription factor that orchestrates responses to hypoxia is hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF-1). The aim of this work is to show that targeting HIF-1 with combined drug therapy presents an opportunity for improving outcomes for HCC treatment. HepG2 cells were cultured under normoxic and hypoxic conditions exposed to doxorubicin, rapamycin and combinations thereof, and analyzed for viability and the expression of hypoxia-induced HIF-1α in response to these treatments. A pilot study was carried out to evaluate the antitumour effects of these drug combinations delivered from drug-eluting beads in vivo using an ectopic xenograft murine model of HCC. A therapeutic doxorubicin concentration that inhibits the viability of normoxic and hypoxic HepG2 cells and above which hypoxic cells are chemoresistant was identified, together with the lowest effective dose of rapamycin against normoxic and hypoxic HepG2 cells. It was shown that combinations of rapamycin and doxorubicin are more effective than doxorubicin alone. Western Blotting indicated that both doxorubicin and rapamycin inhibit hypoxia-induced accumulation of HIF-1α. Combination treatments were more effective in vivo than either treatment alone. mTOR inhibition can improve outcomes of doxorubicin treatment in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cressida Bowyer
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Brighton, Lewes Road, Brighton
| | | | - Andrew W. Lloyd
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Brighton, Lewes Road, Brighton
| | - Gary J. Phillips
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Brighton, Lewes Road, Brighton
| | - Wendy M. Macfarlane
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Brighton, Lewes Road, Brighton
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11
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da Silva EFG, Krause GC, Lima KG, Haute GV, Pedrazza L, Mesquita FC, Basso BS, Velasquez AC, Nunes FB, de Oliveira JR. Rapamycin and fructose-1,6-bisphosphate reduce the HEPG2 cell proliferation via increase of free radicals and apoptosis. Oncol Rep 2016; 36:2647-2652. [PMID: 27665945 DOI: 10.3892/or.2016.5111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2016] [Accepted: 06/21/2016] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma is the most prevalent type of tumor among primary tumors affecting the liver. Rapamycin is currently used as a basis for chemotherapy in the treatment of cancers, including the liver. Because it shows several adverse effects, minimizing these effects without compromising efficacy is important. In this sense other drugs may be used concomitantly. One of these drugs is fructose-1,6-bisphosphate (FBP), which has shown therapeutic effect in various pathological situations, having antioxidant and anti-inflammatory proprieties. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the activity of rapamycin in combination with the FBP in HepG2 cell proliferation and the mechanisms involved. HepG2 cells were analyzed after 72 h of treatment with both drugs. Cell proliferation, cytotoxicity, cytokines, apoptosis, senescence, autophagy and oxidative stress were accessed. Ιt was demonstrated that the combination is more efficient than the single use of substances, because subtherapeutic doses of rapamycin, when associated to FBP become effective, reducing cell proliferation, through a significant increase in the production of tiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), suggesting that this might be the cause of death by apoptosis. According to these results, we believe that the association of both drugs may be a promising choice for the treatment of hepatocarcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Feller Gonçalves da Silva
- Laboratory of Cellular Biophysics and Inflammation, Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, School of Biosciences, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, CEP 90619‑900, Brazil
| | - Gabriele Catyana Krause
- Laboratory of Cellular Biophysics and Inflammation, Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, School of Biosciences, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, CEP 90619‑900, Brazil
| | - Kelly Goulart Lima
- Laboratory of Cellular Biophysics and Inflammation, Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, School of Biosciences, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, CEP 90619‑900, Brazil
| | - Gabriela Viegas Haute
- Laboratory of Cellular Biophysics and Inflammation, Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, School of Biosciences, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, CEP 90619‑900, Brazil
| | - Leonardo Pedrazza
- Laboratory of Cellular Biophysics and Inflammation, Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, School of Biosciences, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, CEP 90619‑900, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Cristina Mesquita
- Laboratory of Cellular Biophysics and Inflammation, Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, School of Biosciences, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, CEP 90619‑900, Brazil
| | - Bruno Souza Basso
- Laboratory of Cellular Biophysics and Inflammation, Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, School of Biosciences, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, CEP 90619‑900, Brazil
| | - Anderson Catarina Velasquez
- Laboratory of Cellular Biophysics and Inflammation, Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, School of Biosciences, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, CEP 90619‑900, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Bordignon Nunes
- Laboratory of Cellular Biophysics and Inflammation, Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, School of Biosciences, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, CEP 90619‑900, Brazil
| | - Jarbas Rodrigues de Oliveira
- Laboratory of Cellular Biophysics and Inflammation, Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, School of Biosciences, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, CEP 90619‑900, Brazil
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12
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Tsai MC, Chen KD, Wang CC, Huang KT, Wu CH, Kuo IY, Chen LY, Hu TH, Goto S, Nakano T, Dorling A, McVey JH, Chen CL, Lin CC. Factor VII promotes hepatocellular carcinoma progression through ERK-TSC signaling. Cell Death Discov 2015; 1:15051. [PMID: 27551480 PMCID: PMC4993037 DOI: 10.1038/cddiscovery.2015.51] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2015] [Accepted: 09/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
We previously demonstrated PAR2 starts upstreamed with tissue factor (TF) and factor VII (FVII), inhibited autophagy via mTOR signaling in HCC. However, the mechanism underlying for merging functions of PAR2 with the coagulation system in HCC progression remained unclear. The present study aimed to investigate the role of TF, FVII and PAR2 in tumor progression of HCC. The expressions of TF, FVII and PAR2 from HCC specimens were evaluated by immunohistochemical stains and western blotting. We found that the expression of FVII, but not TF and PAR2, directly related to the vascular invasion and the clinical staging. Importantly, a lower level of FVII expression was significantly associated with the longer disease-free survival. The addition of FVII but not TF induced the expression of PAR2 and phosphorylation of ERK1/2, whereas knockdown of FVII decreased PAR2 expression and ERK1/2 phosphorylation in HCC cell lines. Furthermore, levels of phosphor-TSC2 (Ser664) were increased after treatment with FVII and PAR2 agonist whereas these were significantly abolished in the presence of a potent and specific MEK/ERK inhibitor U0126. Moreover, mTOR knockdown highly reduced Hep3B migration, which could be reverted by FVII but not TF and PAR2. These results indicated that FVII/PAR2 signaling through MEK/ERK and TSC2 axis for mTOR activation has potent effects on the migration of HCC cells. In addition, FVII/PAR2 signaling elicits an mTOR-independent signaling, which promotes hepatoma cell migration in consistent with the clinical observations. Our study indicates that levels of FVII, but not TF, are associated with tumor migration and invasiveness in HCC, and provides clues that evaluation of FVII expression in HCC may be useful as a prognostic indicator in patients with HCC and may form an alternative target for further therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- M-C Tsai
- Division of Hepato-Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - K-D Chen
- Center for Translational Research in Biomedical Sciences, Liver Transplantation Program and Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital , Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - C-C Wang
- Center for Translational Research in Biomedical Sciences, Liver Transplantation Program and Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital , Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - K-T Huang
- Center for Translational Research in Biomedical Sciences, Liver Transplantation Program and Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital , Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - C-H Wu
- Center for Translational Research in Biomedical Sciences, Liver Transplantation Program and Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital , Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - I-Y Kuo
- Center for Translational Research in Biomedical Sciences, Liver Transplantation Program and Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital , Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - L-Y Chen
- Center for Translational Research in Biomedical Sciences, Liver Transplantation Program and Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital , Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - T-H Hu
- Division of Hepato-Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital , Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - S Goto
- Center for Translational Research in Biomedical Sciences, Liver Transplantation Program and Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Fukuoka Institution of Occupational Health, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - T Nakano
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, Chang Gung University College of Medicine , Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - A Dorling
- Division of Transplantation Immunology and Mucosal Biology, Guy's Hospital, King's College London, MRC Centre for Transplantation , London, UK
| | - J H McVey
- Department of Biochemical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey , Guildford, UK
| | - C-L Chen
- Center for Translational Research in Biomedical Sciences, Liver Transplantation Program and Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital , Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - C-C Lin
- Center for Translational Research in Biomedical Sciences, Liver Transplantation Program and Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital , Kaohsiung, Taiwan
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13
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Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is an increasing problem in the USA and worldwide. Current treatments for HCC include chemoembolization, radioembolization, liver resection, and liver transplantation in the setting of selected cirrhotic patients. Liver transplantation for HCC was controversial initially, but is now widely accepted as a curative approach. Cirrhotic patients who meet standards for transplantation and have a tumor burden within Milan criteria are eligible for transplantation and receive Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) exception points once listed. Given the decline in availability of donor organs, rewarding MELD exception points and performing liver transplants in these patients remain controversial. Despite this, various guidelines propose expanding eligibility criteria for cirrhotics with HCC, due to post-transplant outcomes comparable to patients transplanted without HCC. Following the transplant, issues include optimizing the type and amount of immunosuppression and screening for and treating recurrence of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Katherine Rude
- Washington University School of Medicine, 660 S. Euclid Avenue, Campus Box 8124, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA,
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14
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Chiu KW, Nakano T, Chen KD, Hsu LW, Lai CY, Huang CY, Cheng YF, Goto S, Chen CL. Repeated-measures implication of hepatocellular carcinoma biomarkers in living donor liver transplantation. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0124943. [PMID: 25978323 PMCID: PMC4433208 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0124943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2015] [Accepted: 03/20/2015] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and its recurrence are major problems in living donor liver transplantation (LDLT). Several biomarkers have been used to investigate this event. We conducted a prospective controlled study to determine the activities of the basic fibroblast growth factor (FGF-2), survivin, Ki67, endostatin, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in different conditions before, early after, and late after LDLT with and without HCC recurrence. Methods Fifty patients with virus-related HCC who underwent LDLT were enrolled in this 2-year cross-sectional study. During the study period, recurrent HCC was identified in 9 patients (study group, n = 9) and 41 patients (control group, n = 41) had no recurrence after LDLT. The mean time to HCC recurrence was 587.11 ± 398.64 days (range, 90–1352 days). Microvascular invasion (MVI) was found in 66.7% (6/9) of the recipients, as determined on pathological examination. The serum biomarkers were investigated by using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay at the different LDLT stages. Results The serum levels of the biomarkers significantly correlated with LDLT and HCC recurrence in the repeated-measures analysis (F = 31.676, P = 0.000). Significant differences were observed in the effects of all biomarkers (F = 85.313, P = 0.000) and the time to HCC recurrence after LDLT (F = 3.178, P = 0.046). The biomarkers, ordered by the observed power of the test for HCC recurrence after LDLT, were FGF-2 (1.000) > survivin (0.999) > Ki67 (0.949) > endostatin (0.411) > VEGF (0.305). Conclusions Different biomarker activities may be implicated in the pathogenesis of HCC recurrence after LDLT. Oncogenes may not exist in the new graft but may still be present in the peripheral blood. The timing of HCC recurrence and impact of MVI in the explanted liver requires confirmation in larger studies with a longer follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- King-Wah Chiu
- Liver Transplantation Program, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Chang Gung University, College of Medicine, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- * E-mail:
| | - Toshiaki Nakano
- Liver Transplantation Program, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Chang Gung University, College of Medicine, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Kuang-Den Chen
- Liver Transplantation Program, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Li-Wen Hsu
- Liver Transplantation Program, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Yun Lai
- Liver Transplantation Program, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Yin Huang
- Liver Transplantation Program, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Fan Cheng
- Liver Transplantation Program, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Chang Gung University, College of Medicine, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Shigeru Goto
- Liver Transplantation Program, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Chao-Long Chen
- Liver Transplantation Program, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
- Chang Gung University, College of Medicine, Taoyuan, Taiwan
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15
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Chen KD, Wang CC, Tsai MC, Wu CH, Yang HJ, Chen LY, Nakano T, Goto S, Huang KT, Hu TH, Chen CL, Lin CC. Interconnections between autophagy and the coagulation cascade in hepatocellular carcinoma. Cell Death Dis 2014; 5:e1244. [PMID: 24853422 PMCID: PMC4047908 DOI: 10.1038/cddis.2014.212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2013] [Revised: 03/04/2014] [Accepted: 03/19/2014] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Autophagy has an important role in tumor biology of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Recent studies demonstrated that tissue factor (TF) combined with coagulation factor VII (FVII) has a pathological role by activating a G-protein-coupled receptor called protease-activated receptor 2 (PAR2) for tumor growth. The present study aimed to investigate the interactions of autophagy and the coagulation cascade in HCC. Seventy HCC patients who underwent curative liver resection were recruited. Immunohistochemical staining and western blotting were performed to determine TF, FVII, PAR2 and light chain 3 (LC3A/B) expressions in tumors and their contiguous normal regions. We found that the levels of autophagic marker LC3A/B-II and coagulation proteins (TF, FVII and PAR2) were inversely correlated in human HCC tissues. Treatments with TF, FVII or PAR2 agonist downregulated LC3A/B-II with an increased level of mTOR in Hep3B cells; in contrast, knockdown of TF, FVII or PAR2 increased LC3A/B. Furthermore, mTOR silencing restored the impaired expression of LC3A/B-II in TF-, FVII- or PAR2-treated Hep3B cells and activated autophagy. Last, as an in vivo correlate, we administered TF, FVII or PAR2 agonist in a NOD/severe combined immunodeficiency xenograft model and showed decreased LC3A/B protein levels in HepG2 tumors with treatments. Overall, our present study demonstrated that TF, FVII and PAR2 regulated autophagy mainly via mTOR signaling. The interaction of coagulation and autophagic pathways may provide potential targets for further therapeutic application in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- K-D Chen
- Center for Translational Research in Biomedical Sciences, Liver Transplantation Program and Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - C-C Wang
- Center for Translational Research in Biomedical Sciences, Liver Transplantation Program and Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - M-C Tsai
- Division of Hepato-Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - C-H Wu
- Center for Translational Research in Biomedical Sciences, Liver Transplantation Program and Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - H-J Yang
- Center for Translational Research in Biomedical Sciences, Liver Transplantation Program and Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - L-Y Chen
- Center for Translational Research in Biomedical Sciences, Liver Transplantation Program and Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - T Nakano
- 1] Center for Translational Research in Biomedical Sciences, Liver Transplantation Program and Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan [2] Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Sciences, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - S Goto
- 1] Center for Translational Research in Biomedical Sciences, Liver Transplantation Program and Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan [2] Iwao Hospital, Yufuin, Japan
| | - K-T Huang
- Center for Translational Research in Biomedical Sciences, Liver Transplantation Program and Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - T-H Hu
- Division of Hepato-Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - C-L Chen
- Center for Translational Research in Biomedical Sciences, Liver Transplantation Program and Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - C-C Lin
- Center for Translational Research in Biomedical Sciences, Liver Transplantation Program and Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
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16
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Teperman L, Moonka D, Sebastian A, Sher L, Marotta P, Marsh C, Koneru B, Goss J, Preston D, Roberts JP. Calcineurin inhibitor-free mycophenolate mofetil/sirolimus maintenance in liver transplantation: the randomized spare-the-nephron trial. Liver Transpl 2013; 19:675-89. [PMID: 23775875 DOI: 10.1002/lt.23658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2012] [Accepted: 04/08/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) and sirolimus (SRL) have been used for calcineurin inhibitor (CNI) minimization to reduce nephrotoxicity following liver transplantation. In this prospective, open-label, multicenter study, patients undergoing transplantation from July 2005 to June 2007 who were maintained on MMF/CNI were randomized 4 to 12 weeks after transplantation to receive MMF/SRL (n = 148) or continue MMF/CNI (n = 145) and included in the intent-to-treat population. The primary efficacy endpoints were the mean percentage change in the calculated glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and a composite of biopsy-proven acute rejection (BPAR), graft lost, death, and lost to follow-up 12 months after transplantation. Patients were followed for a median of 519 days after randomization. MMF/SRL was associated with a significantly greater renal function improvement from baseline with a mean percentage change in GFR of 19.7 ± 40.6 (versus 1.2 ± 39.9 for MMF/CNI, P = 0.0012). The composite endpoint demonstrated the noninferiority of MMF/SRL versus MMF/CNI (16.4% versus 15.4%, 90% confidence interval = -7.1% to 9.0%). The incidence of BPAR was significantly greater with MMF/SRL (12.2%) versus MMF/CNI (4.1%, P = 0.02). Graft loss (including death) occurred in 3.4% of the MMF/SRL-treated patients and in 8.3% of the MMF/CNI-treated patients (P = 0.04). Malignancy-related deaths were less frequent with MMF/SRL. Adverse events caused withdrawal for 34.2% of the MMF/SRL-treated patients and for 24.1% of the MMF/CNI-treated patients (P = 0.06). The use of MMF/SRL is an option for liver transplant recipients who can benefit from improved renal function but is associated with an increased risk of rejection (but not graft loss).
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Affiliation(s)
- Lewis Teperman
- Mary Lea Johnson Richards Organ Transplant Center, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA.
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17
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Kelley RK, Nimeiri HS, Munster PN, Vergo MT, Huang Y, Li CM, Hwang J, Mulcahy MF, Yeh BM, Kuhn P, Luttgen MS, Grabowsky JA, Stucky-Marshall L, Korn WM, Ko AH, Bergsland EK, Benson AB, Venook AP. Temsirolimus combined with sorafenib in hepatocellular carcinoma: a phase I dose-finding trial with pharmacokinetic and biomarker correlates. Ann Oncol 2013; 24:1900-1907. [PMID: 23519998 PMCID: PMC3690907 DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdt109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2012] [Revised: 02/01/2013] [Accepted: 02/05/2013] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Based upon preclinical evidence for improved antitumor activity in combination, this phase I study investigated the maximum-tolerated dose (MTD), safety, activity, pharmacokinetics (PK), and biomarkers of the mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitor, temsirolimus, combined with sorafenib in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). PATIENTS AND METHODS Patients with incurable HCC and Child Pugh score ≤B7 were treated with sorafenib plus temsirolimus by 3 + 3 design. The dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) interval was 28 days. The response was assessed every two cycles. PK of temsirolimus was measured in a cohort at MTD. RESULTS Twenty-five patients were enrolled. The MTD was temsirolimus 10 mg weekly plus sorafenib 200 mg twice daily. Among 18 patients at MTD, DLT included grade 3 hand-foot skin reaction (HFSR) and grade 3 thrombocytopenia. Grade 3 or 4 related adverse events at MTD included hypophosphatemia (33%), infection (22%), thrombocytopenia (17%), HFSR (11%), and fatigue (11%). With sorafenib, temsirolimus clearance was more rapid (P < 0.05). Two patients (8%) had a confirmed partial response (PR); 15 (60%) had stable disease (SD). Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) declined ≥50% in 60% assessable patients. CONCLUSION The MTD of sorafenib plus temsirolimus in HCC was lower than in other tumor types. HCC-specific phase I studies are necessary. The observed efficacy warrants further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- R K Kelley
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco.
| | - H S Nimeiri
- Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University, Chicago
| | - P N Munster
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco
| | - M T Vergo
- Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University, Chicago
| | - Y Huang
- Drug Studies Unit, Department of Bioengineering & Therapeutic Sciences
| | - C-M Li
- Drug Studies Unit, Department of Bioengineering & Therapeutic Sciences
| | - J Hwang
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco
| | - M F Mulcahy
- Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University, Chicago
| | - B M Yeh
- Department of Radiology, UCSF, San Francisco
| | - P Kuhn
- Department of Cell Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, USA
| | - M S Luttgen
- Department of Cell Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, USA
| | - J A Grabowsky
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco
| | - L Stucky-Marshall
- Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University, Chicago
| | - W M Korn
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco
| | - A H Ko
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco
| | - E K Bergsland
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco
| | - A B Benson
- Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University, Chicago
| | - A P Venook
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), San Francisco
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18
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Xiong ZP, Huang F, Lu MH. Association between insulin-like growth factor-2 expression and prognosis after transcatheter arterial chemoembolization and octreotide in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev 2013; 13:3191-4. [PMID: 22994732 DOI: 10.7314/apjcp.2012.13.7.3191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the association between the change of IGF-2 level in serum after transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression, especially in relation to metastasis. METHODS IGF-2 in serum was measured by quantitative sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay before, 3 days and 4 weeks after TACE in 60 patients with HCC. The occurrence of HCC metastasis was also evaluated, 3 months after TACE. RESULTS (1) The average serum level of IGF-2 in the 60 patients with HCC was 136.5 ± 87.3 pg/ml; (2) A tendency for increase was observed with heterogenous uptake of octreotide and portal vein thrombosis. Metastatic foci were found in 37/38 patients in the group with IGF-2 increasing (97.0%), in contrast to 3/22 (13.6%) patients with IGF-2 decrease. CONCLUSION The increase of IGF-2 level in serum appears to be associated with the occurrence of metastatic HCC after TACE and chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng-Ping Xiong
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Hunan Provincial Tumor Hospital, Changsha, China
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19
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Ji YY, Wang ZD, Li ZF, Li K. Interference of suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition in MHCC97H cells. World J Gastroenterol 2013; 19:866-873. [PMID: 23430705 PMCID: PMC3574883 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v19.i6.866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2012] [Accepted: 12/25/2012] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To investigate the role of suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3) silencing in epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) involved in a human hepatocellular carcinoma MHCC97H cell line.
METHODS: MHCC97H cells were transiently transfected with SOCS3 small-interfering RNA (siRNA). Morphological changes of the transfected cells were observed under microscope. Expressions of E-cadherin, Vimentin and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) were identified with immunofluorescence. Furthermore, protein expressions and mRNA levels of characteristic markers of EMT (E-cadherin, Vimentin, α-SMA and Snail) were detected by Western blotting, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) levels in the supernatant were measured with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.
RESULTS: The transfected cells with SOCS3 siRNA showed a morphological alteration from a typical cobblestone morphology to mesenchymal spindle-shaped and fusiform features. SOCS3 siRNA lessened immunofluorescent expression of E-cadherin, but elicited immunofluorescent expressions of Vimentin and α-SMA in MHCC97H cells. More importantly, compared with the negative control, depletion of SOCS3 resulted in the decrease of the epithelial marker E-cadherin (P < 0.05), and the increase of the mesenchymal markers Vimentin and α-SMA and the transcription factor Snail in MHCC97H cells (P < 0.05). Moreover, compared with the negative control, SOCS3 siRNA evidently enhanced TGF-β1 secretion in MHCC97H cells (200.20 ± 29.02 pg/mL vs 490.20 ± 92.43 pg/mL, P < 0.05).
CONCLUSION: SOCS3 silencing is able to promote EMT in MHCC97H cells via changing the phenotypic characteristics and modulating the characteristic markers.
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20
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Zarrinpar A, Busuttil RW. Immunomodulating options for liver transplant patients. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2013; 8:565-78; quiz 578. [PMID: 22992151 DOI: 10.1586/eci.12.47] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Much has changed since the early years of liver transplantation. Improvements in post-transplant survival are largely due to more selective and less toxic immunosuppression regimens and advances in operative and perioperative care. This has allowed liver transplantation to become an extremely successful treatment option for patients with endstage liver disease. Beginning with cyclosporine, a cyclic endecapeptide of fungal origin and the first of the calcineurin inhibitors to find widespread use, immunosuppressive regimens have evolved to include additional calcineurin inhibitors, steroids, mTOR inhibitors, antimetabolites and antibodies, mostly targeting T-cell activation. This review will present currently available immunosuppressive agents used in the perioperative period of liver transplantation, as well as maintenance treatments, tailoring therapeutic strategies for specific populations, and advances in immune monitoring and tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Zarrinpar
- Dumont-UCLA Transplant Center, Division of Liver and Pancreas Transplantation, Department of Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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21
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Total flavonoids of Scutellaria barbata inhibit invasion of hepatocarcinoma via MMP/TIMP in vitro. Molecules 2013; 18:934-50. [PMID: 23344202 PMCID: PMC6269956 DOI: 10.3390/molecules18010934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2012] [Revised: 12/22/2012] [Accepted: 01/05/2013] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Metastasis is the major cause of cancer-related deaths. Targeting the process of metastasis has been proposed as a strategy to fight cancer. Scutellaria barbata D. Don (S. barbata), a traditional Chinese medicine, is used for treatment of many diseases, including cancer. This study aimed to determine the anti-metastatic effect of total flavonoids of S. barbata (TF-SB) using the human hepatocarcinoma MHCC97H cell line with high metastatic potential. Our results show that TF-SB could significantly inhibit the proliferation and invasion of MHCC97H cells in a dose-dependent manner. MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression were obviously decreased after TF-SB treatment at both the mRNA and protein level. TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 expression were simultaneously increased. The present study indicates that TF-SB could reduce the metastatic capability of MHCC97H cell, probably through decrease of the MMP expression, and simultaneous increase of the TIMP expression.
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22
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Abstract
Liver transplantation (LT) may be the best curative treatment that offers a chance of cure for the tumor and the underlying cirrhosis by complete extirpation of both. In Asia, where the supply of cadaveric grafts remains scarce and the incidence of HCC combined with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV)- and hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related liver disease is high, adult living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) has been settled upon as a practical alternative to deceased-donor liver transplantation (DDLT). Even in Western countries, where adequate access to DDLT is feasible for HCC patients satisfying the Milan criteria, the necessity for LDLT is well established in particular for more advanced HCC patients who are disadvantaged by current allocation algorithms for grafts from deceased donors due to organ shortage, increasing waiting lists, and the expectation that many patients listed for LT will die while awaiting a suitable organ. In the field of LDLT in Asia, numerous technical innovations were achieved to secure donor safety, as well as to ensure patient survival. The experience with LDLT for HCC has been progressively increasing in many Asian countries to date. Although there are questions regarding the higher recurrence of HCC after LDLT than after DDLT, the application of the Milan and UCSF criteria to LDLT in high-volume multicenter cohorts from Japan and Korea has resulted in patient survival outcomes very similar to those following DDLT. Recently, inclusion of biologic tumor markers such as alpha fetoprotein (AFP), protein induced by vitamin K antagonist II (PIVKA II), and positive positron emission tomography (PET) in addition to parameters of tumor morphology might be the key to establishing the best criteria for LDLT for HCC. As pretransplant treatments, most LDLT centers in Asia cannot adopt the strategy of bridging therapy under scarcity of cadaveric organ donation but have to use those multi-modality treatments as a salvage intending for primary curative treatment or a downstaging therapy before LDLT. After LDLT, basically there is no difference in the management strategy for HCC recurrence between DDLD and LDLT.
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Improved efficacy of a novel anti-angiogenic drug combination (TL-118) against colorectal-cancer liver metastases; MRI monitoring in mice. Br J Cancer 2012; 107:658-66. [PMID: 22805330 PMCID: PMC3419965 DOI: 10.1038/bjc.2012.322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The poor prognosis of patients with colorectal-cancer liver metastases (CRLM) and the insufficiency of available treatments have raised the need for alternative curative strategies. We aimed to assess the therapeutic potential of TL-118, a new anti-angiogenic drug combination, for CRLM treatment, in a mouse model. METHODS The therapeutic potential of TL-118 was evaluated and compared with B20-4.1.1 (B20; anti-VEGF antibody) and rapamycin in CRLM-bearing mice. Tumour progression and the vascular changes were monitored by MRI. Additionally, mice survival, cell proliferation, apoptosis and vessel density were evaluated. RESULTS This study demonstrated an unequivocal advantage to TL-118 therapy by significantly prolonging survival (threefold) and reducing metastasis perfusion and vessel density (ninefold). The underlying mechanism for TL-118-treatment success was associated with hepatic perfusion attenuation resulting from reduced nitric-oxide (NO) serum levels as elucidated by using hemodynamic response imaging (HRI, a functional MRI combined with hypercapnia and hyperoxia). Further, systemic hepatic perfusion reduction during the initial treatment phase by adding NO inhibitor has proven to be essential for reaching maximal therapeutic effects for both TL-118 and B20. CONCLUSION TL-118 harbours a potential clinical benefit to CLRM patients. Moreover, the reduction of hepatic perfusion at early stages of anti-angiogenic therapies by adding NO inhibitor is crucial for achieving maximal anti-tumour effects.
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Translational medicine in hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Med 2012; 6:122-33. [PMID: 22573220 DOI: 10.1007/s11684-012-0193-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2011] [Accepted: 01/19/2012] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a highly complex disease that is generally resistant to commonly used chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Consequently, there is an urgent need for the development of new treatment strategies for this devastating disease. In the past decade, tremendous progress has been achieved in the molecular stratification of HCCs for diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutic decision-making. To date, the molecular classification of HCCs has been carried out through transcriptomic, genetic and epigenetic profiling of tumors. Such research has led to identification of several potential molecular targets in HCC, and subsequently, development of novel systemic agents for the treatment of HCC has begun in earnest. In this article, we review the current knowledge of the molecular pathogenesis of HCC and outline potential areas for application of this knowledge in a clinical setting. As a typical virus and inflammation-associated cancer, both host immune response and tumor microenvironment have crucial roles in HCC pathogenesis. In addition, we examine the potential of immunotherapy and strategies targeting various components of the tumor microenvironment, as well as novel molecular and cellular targets in HCC such as cancer stem cells.
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Wang C, Gao D, Guo K, Kang X, Jiang K, Sun C, Li Y, Sun L, Shu H, Jin G, Sun H, Wu W, Liu Y. Novel synergistic antitumor effects of rapamycin with bortezomib on hepatocellular carcinoma cells and orthotopic tumor model. BMC Cancer 2012; 12:166. [PMID: 22559167 PMCID: PMC3469344 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2407-12-166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2012] [Accepted: 05/04/2012] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Despite recent advances in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the chemotherapy efficacy against HCC is still unsatisfactory. The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) has been emerged as an important cancer therapeutic target. However, HCC cells often resistant to rapamycin because of the paradoxical activation of Akt by rapamycin. In this study, we investigated whether bortezomib could enhance the antitumor effects of rapamycin. Methods The effects of rapamycin and bortezomib on HCC proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and invasiveness in vitro were assessed by CCK-8 analysis, flow cytometry, Hoechst 33342 staining and transwell assays, respectively. Total and phosphorylated protein levels of Akt were detected by Western blotting. The effects of rapamycin and/or bortezomib on the mRNA expression levels of p53, p27, p21 and Bcl-2 family in HCCLM3 cells were evaluated by RT-PCR. The roles of rapamycin and bortezomib on HCC growth and metastasis in xenograft models were evaluated by tumor volumes and fluorescent signals. The effects of rapamycin and bortezomib on cell proliferation and apoptosis in vivo were test by PCNA and TUNEL staining. Results Bortezomib synergized with rapamycin to reduce cell growth, induce apoptosis, and inhibit cell mobility in vitro. Further mechanistic studies showed that bortezomib inhibited rapamycin-induced phosphorylated Akt, which in turn enhanced apoptosis of HCC cell lines. The alteration of the mRNA expression of cell cycle inhibitors p53, p27, p21 and apoptosis associated genes Bcl-2, Bax were also involved in the synergistic antitumor effects of rapamycin and bortezomib. P53 inhibitor PFT-α significantly attenuate the effect of rapamycin and bortezomib on cell apoptosis, which indicated that the pro-apoptotic effect of rapamycin and bortezomib may be p53-dependent. Treatment of HCCLM3-R bearing nude mice with rapamycin and bortezomib significantly enhanced tumor growth inhibition (72.4%), comparing with either rapamycin- (54.7%) or bortezomib-treated mice (22.4%). In addition, the lung metastasis was significantly suppressed in mice received the combination treatment (16.6%). The combination treatment of rapamycin and bortezomib significantly inhibited tumor cell proliferation and tumor angiogenesis in vivo. Conclusion The combination of rapamycin with bortezomib could be a novel and promising therapeutic approach to the treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cun Wang
- Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion, Ministry of Education, Shanghai 200032, China
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Kim HR, Cheon SH, Rha SY, Lee S, Han KH, Chon CY, Lee JD, Sung JS, Chung HC. Treatment of recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma after liver transplantation. Asia Pac J Clin Oncol 2012; 7:258-69. [PMID: 21884437 DOI: 10.1111/j.1743-7563.2011.01425.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
AIM Liver transplantation (LT) is a curative treatment for localized hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but the recurrence rate after LT is about 10-20%, with a dismal prognosis. Little data exist as to the natural history, treatment outcome and optimal treatment of recurrent HCC after LT. We reviewed various treatment modalities given to patients with recurrent HCC after LT. METHODS Among 132 patients who underwent LT for localized HCC, we retrospectively reviewed medical records of 39 of the 132 patients who developed recurrent HCC after LT. We analyzed the clinical outcome of various treatment modalities and treatment-related adverse events. RESULTS A total of 39 (29%) of the original 132 patients had recurrent HCC, most recurrences (82%) having occurred within 1 year after LT and involved extrahepatic lesions. Only seven patients had recurrent disease limited to the liver. The median overall survival from the initial treatment of all relapsed patients was 6.9 months. There were various initial treatment modalities, namely palliative systemic chemotherapy, trans-catheter arterial chemo-embolization/infusion (TACE/I), radiation therapy (RT), surgical resection and no treatment. The median overall survival was 9.5 months for first-line chemotherapy, including those who had prior local therapy, 6.3 months TACE/I and 6.9 months for RT. CONCLUSION Various clinical approaches have been used to treat patients with recurrent HCC after LT in a clinical setting. More effective strategies and clinical guidelines for recurrent HCC following LT must be established.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hye Ryun Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Gomez-Martin C, Bustamante J, Castroagudin JF, Salcedo M, Garralda E, Testillano M, Herrero I, Matilla A, Sangro B. Efficacy and safety of sorafenib in combination with mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors for recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma after liver transplantation. Liver Transpl 2012; 18:45-52. [PMID: 21932373 DOI: 10.1002/lt.22434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
There is currently no consensus on the most suitable treatment for the recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after liver transplantation. This open, multicenter, retrospective, uncontrolled cohort study was designed to evaluate the safety and preliminary efficacy of the combined use of a mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor and sorafenib in this setting. In 31 patients who suffered from HCC recurrence after liver transplantation, the immunosuppressive therapy was changed to mTOR inhibitors, and systemic treatment with sorafenib was initiated. This combination was maintained until symptomatic tumor progression, death, hepatic decompensation, or unacceptable toxicity occurred. Primary treatment efficacy was determined by overall survival and progression-free survival, and secondary efficacy was determined by the overall response rate. Toxicity parameters associated with the use of sorafenib and mTOR inhibitors were also analyzed. The overall response rate according to the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors was 3.8% (1/26), and there was sustained stabilization of the disease in 13 additional cases (50.0%). The median overall survival was 19.3 months [95% confidence interval (CI) = 13.4-25.1 months], and the median time to progression was 6.77 months (95% CI = 2.3-11.1 months). Only 2 grade 3/4 cases of hyperglycemia and 1 case of grade 3/4 mucositis were reported, and they were possibly related to mTOR inhibitors. The most common severe adverse event probably related to sorafenib was diarrhea (12.9%). In conclusion, the coadministration of sorafenib and an mTOR inhibitor could be effective despite notable toxicity in patients with post-liver transplant HCC recurrence not suitable for radical therapy. The toxicity and efficacy need to be further evaluated in randomized controlled studies for this combination to be considered a valid option.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Gomez-Martin
- Gastrointestinal Cancer Unit, Spanish National Cancer Research Center, Fuenlabrada University Hospital, Camino del Molino 2, Fuenlabrada, Madrid, Spain.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a heterogeneous malignancy with multiple etiologies, high incidence, and high mortality. The standard surgical management for patients with HCC consists of locoregional ablation, surgical resection, or liver transplantation, depending on the background state of the liver. Eighty percent of patients initially presenting with HCC are unresectable, either due to the extent of tumor or the level of underlying hepatic dysfunction. While in patients with no evidence of cirrhosis and good hepatic function resection has been the surgical treatment of choice, it is contraindicated in patients with moderate to severe cirrhosis. Liver transplantation is the optimal surgical treatment. DATA SOURCES PubMed search of recent articles (from January 2000 to March 2011) was performed looking for relevant articles about hepatocellular carcinoma and its treatment. Additional articles were identified by evaluating references from selected articles. RESULTS Here we review criteria for transplantation, the types, indications, and role of locoregional therapy in treating the cancer and in downstaging for possible later transplantation. We also summarize the contribution of immunosuppression and adjuvant chemotherapy in the management and prevention of HCC recurrence. Finally we discuss recent advances in imaging, tumor biology, and genomics as we delineate the remaining challenges for the diagnosis and treatment of this disease. CONCLUSIONS Much can be improved in the diagnosis and treatment of HCC. A great challenge will be to improve patient selection to criteria based on tumor biology. Another will be to incorporate systemic agents post-operatively in patients at high risk for recurrence, paying close attention to efficacy and safety. The future direction of the effort in treating HCC will be to stimulate prospective trials, develop molecular imaging of lymphovascular invasion, to improve recipient selection, and to investigate biomarkers of tumor biology.
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Toll-like receptors: role in dermatological disease. Mediators Inflamm 2010; 2010:437246. [PMID: 20847936 PMCID: PMC2933899 DOI: 10.1155/2010/437246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2010] [Revised: 04/27/2010] [Accepted: 07/01/2010] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are a class of conserved receptors that recognize pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) present in microbes. In humans, at least ten TLRs have been identified, and their recognition targets range from bacterial endotoxins to lipopeptides, DNA, dsRNA, ssRNA, fungal products, and several host factors. Of dermatological interest, these receptors are expressed on several skin cells including keratinocytes, melanocytes, and Langerhans cells. TLRs are essential in identifying microbial products and are known to link the innate and adaptive immune systems. Over the years, there have been significant advances in our understanding of TLRs in skin inflammation, cutaneous malignancies, and defence mechanisms. In this paper, we will describe the association between TLRs and various skin pathologies and discuss proposed TLR therapeutics.
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Song GW, Hwang S, Lee SG. [Liver transplantation in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma]. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY 2010; 55:350-60. [PMID: 20571302 DOI: 10.4166/kjg.2010.55.6.350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third most common malignancy, with a new incidence of more than 11,000 cases per year and the second most common cause of malignancy-related death in Korean males. In Korea, more than 80% of all HCCs have developed from hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related cirrhotic livers. Liver transplantation (LT) is the only treatment that offers a chance of cure for HCC and the underlying liver cirrhosis simultaneously, but the availability of liver grafts and the aggressiveness of tumor recurrence are critical limiting factors of LT for HCC patients. The serious shortage of deceased-donors on strong demand for LT leads to the development of living-donor LT (LDLT) as a practical alternative replacing deceased-donor LT. Considering that HCC recurrence is the most common cause of posttransplant patient death, recipient candidates should be prudently selected through objectively established criteria. Uniquely, some Asian major LDLT centers challenged the Milan criteria, accepting a much higher number of HCC nodules instead of tumor size expansion. The eligibility criteria of LDLT for HCC are likely to be expanded more than before, but it still requires further qualified risk-benefit analyses. The development of new effective treatment modalities for HCC recurrence will reasonably expand the selection criteria further wide without the expense of recurrence rate. This article is mainly focused on the role of LT for HCC and discussed on the validity of currently available indication criteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gi-Won Song
- Department of Surgery, Division of Liver Transplantation and Hepatobiliary Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Giglia JL, Antonia SJ, Berk LB, Bruno S, Dessureault S, Finkelstein SE. Systemic therapy for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma: past, present, and future. Cancer Control 2010; 17:120-9. [PMID: 20404795 DOI: 10.1177/107327481001700207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although approximately 80% of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cases occur in developing countries, the incidence of HCC in Western countries is on the rise due to the impact of hepatitis C. Challenges in developing effective therapies include the inherent chemoresistance of HCC, the pharmacologic challenges presented by a diseased liver, the presentation of most patients at advanced stages, and the difficulty in adequately measuring radiological response. While responses to traditional chemotherapeutic agents have been documented, significant survival benefit is debatable. METHODS The authors review the results of published clinical trials of systemic therapy and immunotherapy that have impacted the present treatment of HCC. RESULTS With recent progress in the elucidation of HCC molecular pathways, targeted agents show promise. The multikinase inhibitor sorafenib has provided survival benefit in patients with advanced HCC and well-preserved liver function. Sunitinib, bevacizumab, epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors, and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitors have shown activity in small patient cohorts. Immunotherapy appears to be a promising approach that can result in the regression of bulky, invasive cancer in some patients. CONCLUSIONS New agents with a variety of mechanisms of activity offer promising therapeutic options for patients with advanced HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Giglia
- Gastrointestinal Tumor Program, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL 33612, USA.
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Characterisation of a novel cell line (CSQT-2) with high metastatic activity derived from portal vein tumour thrombus of hepatocellular carcinoma. Br J Cancer 2010; 102:1618-26. [PMID: 20461085 PMCID: PMC2883151 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bjc.6605689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Portal vein tumour thrombus (PVTT) is highly associated with the progression and metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, there are no appropriate cell models of PVTT with which to study the biological and physiological characteristics of PVTT. METHODS Primary cell culture was performed by the use of a successive xenograft line called PVTT-#1, which was obtained from a 60-year-old male HCC patient accompanied by PVTT. RESULTS A successive cell line named CSQT-2 was established. The cell line showed aggressive phenotypes in terms of cell growth, survival, migration, xenograft and metastasis. Moreover, an orthotopic transplantation assay showed that PVTT can be generated in nude mice when CSQT-2 cells were inoculated in the liver and that it shows a typical migratory tendency in the vascular branches of portal vein. Moreover, the established CSQT-2 cells also showed varied expression of tumour-initiating cell (TIC) markers such as CD133, CD90 and EpCAM. CONCLUSION Establishment of CSQT-2 may provide a suitable model with which to investigate the molecular mechanisms of PVTT-related HCC.
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Taketomi A, Fukuhara T, Morita K, Kayashima H, Ninomiya M, Yamashita Y, Ikegami T, Uchiyama H, Yoshizumi T, Soejima Y, Shirabe K, Maehara Y. Improved results of a surgical resection for the recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma after living donor liver transplantation. Ann Surg Oncol 2010; 17:2283-9. [PMID: 20204531 DOI: 10.1245/s10434-010-0999-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2010] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study was designed to analyze the clinical outcomes of the recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) and to evaluate the efficacy of a surgical resection in treating such a recurrence. METHODS A total of 101 adult LDLT recipients with HCC between 1996 and 2007, including 17 who had recurrent HCC, were reviewed. The endpoints analyzed were survival from time of transplant and survival from time of recurrence. Recipient demographics, laboratory valuables, and tumor characteristics were analyzed. Any medical or surgical treatments that had been administered for any recurrence also were considered. RESULTS The mean duration until the initial recurrence after LDLT and the mean duration until death after the initial recurrence were 12.9 months and 12.0 months, respectively. A univariate analysis showed that gender, interferon therapy, early posttransplant tumor recurrence, and eligibility for a surgical resection all had a beneficial impact on survival from tumor recurrence. A surgical resection of tumor relapse was the most important variable in our study, and therefore the patients were divided into two groups: surgical therapy group (n = 9), and nonsurgical therapy group (n = 7). Interestingly, the overall survival rates of the surgical group were significantly better than those of the nonsurgical group and were similar to that of the patients without HCC recurrence. CONCLUSIONS Surgical therapy might be useful for patients who experience a recurrence of HCC after LDLT to improve their outcome, when such treatment is available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akinobu Taketomi
- Department of Surgery and Science, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyushu University, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, Japan.
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Kornberg A, Küpper B, Tannapfel A, Katenkamp K, Thrum K, Habrecht O, Wilberg J. Long-term survival after recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma in liver transplant patients: Clinical patterns and outcome variables. Eur J Surg Oncol 2010; 36:275-80. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejso.2009.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2007] [Revised: 09/28/2009] [Accepted: 10/01/2009] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
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Rapamycin response in tumorigenic and non-tumorigenic hepatic cell lines. PLoS One 2009; 4:e7373. [PMID: 19816606 PMCID: PMC2756589 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0007373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2009] [Accepted: 09/12/2009] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The mTOR inhibitor rapamycin has anti-tumor activity across a variety of human cancers, including hepatocellular carcinoma. However, resistance to its growth inhibitory effects is common. We hypothesized that hepatic cell lines with varying rapamycin responsiveness would show common characteristics accounting for resistance to the drug. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS We profiled a total of 13 cell lines for rapamycin-induced growth inhibition. The non-tumorigenic rat liver epithelial cell line WB-F344 was highly sensitive while the tumorigenic WB311 cell line, originally derived from the WB-F344 line, was highly resistant. The other 11 cell lines showed a wide range of sensitivities. Rapamycin induced inhibition of cyclin E-dependent kinase activity in some cell lines, but the ability to do so did not correlate with sensitivity. Inhibition of cyclin E-dependent kinase activity was related to incorporation of p27(Kip1) into cyclin E-containing complexes in some but not all cell lines. Similarly, sensitivity of global protein synthesis to rapamycin did not correlate with its anti-proliferative effect. However, rapamycin potently inhibited phosphorylation of two key substrates, ribosomal protein S6 and 4E-BP1, in all cases, indicating that the locus of rapamycin resistance was downstream from inhibition of mTOR Complex 1. Microarray analysis did not disclose a unifying mechanism for rapamycin resistance, although the glycolytic pathway was downregulated in all four cell lines studied. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE We conclude that the mechanisms of rapamycin resistance in hepatic cells involve alterations of signaling downstream from mTOR and that the mechanisms are highly heterogeneous, thus predicting that maintaining or promoting sensitivity will be highly challenging.
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Li ZF, Wang ZD, Ji YY, Zhang S, Huang C, Li J, Xia XM. Induction of apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in human HCC MHCC97H cells with Chrysanthemum indicum extract. World J Gastroenterol 2009; 15:4538-46. [PMID: 19777612 PMCID: PMC2751998 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.15.4538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To investigate the effects of Chrysanthemum indicum extract (CIE) on inhibition of proliferation and on apoptosis, and the underlying mechanisms, in a human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) MHCC97H cell line.
METHODS: Viable rat hepatocytes and human endothelial ECV304 cells were examined by trypan blue exclusion and MTT assay, respectively, as normal controls. The proliferation of MHCC97H cells was determined by MTT assay. The cellular morphology of MHCC97H cells was observed by phase contrast microscopy. Flow cytometry was performed to analyze cell apoptosis with annexin V/propidium iodide (PI), mitochondrial membrane potential with rhodamine 123 and cell cycle with PI in MHCC97H cells. Apoptotic proteins such as cytochrome C, caspase-9, caspase-3 and cell cycle proteins, including P21 and CDK4, were measured by Western blotting.
RESULTS: CIE inhibited proliferation of MHCC97H cells in a time- and dose-dependent manner without cytotoxicity in rat hepatocytes and human endothelial cells. CIE induced apoptosis of MHCC97H cells in a concentration-dependent manner, as determined by flow cytometry. The apoptosis was accompanied by a decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential, release of cytochrome C and activation of caspase-9 and caspase-3. CIE arrested the cell cycle in the S phase by increasing P21 and decreasing CDK4 protein expression.
CONCLUSION: CIE exerted a significant apoptotic effect through a mitochondrial pathway and arrested the cell cycle by regulation of cell cycle-related proteins in MHCC97H cells without an effect on normal cells. The cancer-specific selectivity shown in this study suggests that the plant extract could be a promising novel treatment for human cancer.
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