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Limonta P, Chiaramonte R, Casati L. Unveiling the Dynamic Interplay between Cancer Stem Cells and the Tumor Microenvironment in Melanoma: Implications for Novel Therapeutic Strategies. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2861. [PMID: 39199632 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16162861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2024] [Revised: 08/07/2024] [Accepted: 08/13/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Cutaneous melanoma still represents a significant health burden worldwide, being responsible for the majority of skin cancer deaths. Key advances in therapeutic strategies have significantly improved patient outcomes; however, most patients experience drug resistance and tumor relapse. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a small subpopulation of cells in different tumors, including melanoma, endowed with distinctive capacities of self-renewal and differentiation into bulk tumor cells. Melanoma CSCs are characterized by the expression of specific biomarkers and intracellular pathways; moreover, they play a pivotal role in tumor onset, progression and drug resistance. In recent years, great efforts have been made to dissect the molecular mechanisms underlying the protumor activities of melanoma CSCs to provide the basis for novel CSC-targeted therapies. Herein, we highlight the intricate crosstalk between melanoma CSCs and bystander cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME), including immune cells, endothelial cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), and its role in melanoma progression. Specifically, we discuss the peculiar capacities of melanoma CSCs to escape the host immune surveillance, to recruit immunosuppressive cells and to educate immune cells toward an immunosuppressive and protumor phenotype. We also address currently investigated CSC-targeted strategies that could pave the way for new promising therapeutic approaches for melanoma care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrizia Limonta
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences "R. Paoletti", Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | | | - Lavinia Casati
- Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20142 Milan, Italy
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2
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Towner RA, Dissanayake R, Ahmed M. Clinical Advances in Triple Negative Breast Cancer Treatment: Focus on Poly (L-lactide-coglycolide) Nanoparticles. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2024; 390:53-64. [PMID: 38580448 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.123.002016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most aggressive type of breast cancer and is associated with high probability of metastasis and poor prognosis. Chemotherapeutics and surgery remain the most common options for TNBC patients; however, chemotherapeutic resistance and relapse of tumors limit the progression free survival and patient life span. This review provides an overview of recent chemotherapeutics that are in clinical trial, and the combination of drugs that are being investigated to overcome the drug resistance and to improve patient survival in different molecular subtypes of TNBCs. Nanotherapeutics have emerged as a promising platform for TNBC treatment and aim to improve the selectivity and solubility of drugs, reduce systemic side effects, and overcome multi-drug resistance. The study explores the role of nanoparticles for TNBC treatment and summarizes the types of nanoparticles that are in clinical trials. Poly(L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) is the most studied polymeric carrier for drug delivery and for TNBC treatment in research and in clinics. This review is about providing recent advancements in PLGA nanotherapeutic formulations and their application to help treat TNBC. Some background on current chemotherapies and pathway inhibitors is provided so that the readers are aware of what is currently considered for TNBC. Some of the pathway inhibitors may also be of importance for nanotherapeutics development. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: This minireview summarizes the progress on chemotherapeutics and nanoparticle delivery for treatment of TNBC and specifically highlights the lead compounds that are in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rheal A Towner
- Department of Chemistry (R.A.T., R.D., M.A.) and Faculty of Sustainable Design Engineering (M.A.), University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, Canada
| | - Ranga Dissanayake
- Department of Chemistry (R.A.T., R.D., M.A.) and Faculty of Sustainable Design Engineering (M.A.), University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, Canada
| | - Marya Ahmed
- Department of Chemistry (R.A.T., R.D., M.A.) and Faculty of Sustainable Design Engineering (M.A.), University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, Canada
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3
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Hoover E, Ruggiero OM, Swingler RN, Day ES. FZD7-Targeted Nanoparticles to Enhance Doxorubicin Treatment of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:14323-14335. [PMID: 38559981 PMCID: PMC10976388 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c10275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Doxorubicin (DOX) is a chemotherapy agent commonly used to treat triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), but it has insufficient efficacy against the disease and considerable toxicity due to its off-target delivery. To improve the specificity of DOX for TNBC, we encapsulated it in poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs) coated with antibodies against Frizzled7 (FZD7), a receptor that is overexpressed on TNBC cells and which is a key activator of the Wnt signaling pathway. In vitro studies show that DOX encapsulation does not hinder its ability to localize to the nucleus in human TNBC cell cultures and that DOX delivered via NPs induces apoptosis and DNA damage via H2A.X phosphorylation to the same degree as freely delivered DOX. FZD7-targeted NPs delivering DOX caused significantly greater inhibition of metabolic activity and led to a smaller cell population following treatment when compared to freely delivered DOX or DOX-loaded NPs coated only with poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG). The FZD7 antibodies additionally provided significant levels of Wnt pathway inhibition, as demonstrated by an increase in β-catenin phosphorylation, indicative of β-catenin destruction and downregulation. These results show that FZD7-targeted platforms have great promise for improving the therapeutic window of otherwise toxic chemotherapies like DOX in TNBC and other cancers that display the overexpression of FZD7 receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elise
C. Hoover
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, University of
Delaware, Newark, Delaware 19713, United States
| | - Olivia M. Ruggiero
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, University of
Delaware, Newark, Delaware 19713, United States
| | - Rachel N. Swingler
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, University of
Delaware, Newark, Delaware 19713, United States
| | - Emily S. Day
- Department
of Biomedical Engineering, University of
Delaware, Newark, Delaware 19713, United States
- Department
of Materials Science and Engineering, University
of Delaware, Newark, Delaware 19716, United States
- Helen
F. Graham Cancer Center and Research Institute, Newark, Delaware 19713, United States
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4
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Kumari L, Mishra L, Sharma Y, Chahar K, Kumar M, Patel P, Gupta GD, Kurmi BD. NOTCH Signaling Pathway: Occurrence, Mechanism, and NOTCH-Directed Therapy for the Management of Cancer. Cancer Biother Radiopharm 2024; 39:19-34. [PMID: 37797218 DOI: 10.1089/cbr.2023.0023] [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] [Indexed: 10/07/2023] Open
Abstract
It is now well understood that many signaling pathways are vital in carrying out and controlling essential pro-survival and pro-growth cellular functions. The NOTCH signaling pathway, a highly conserved evolutionary signaling pathway, has been thoroughly studied since the discovery of NOTCH phenotypes about 100 years ago in Drosophila melanogaster. Abnormal NOTCH signaling has been linked to the pathophysiology of several diseases, notably cancer. In tumorigenesis, NOTCH plays the role of a "double-edged sword," that is, it may act as an oncogene or as a tumor suppressor gene depending on the nature of the context. However, its involvement in several cancers and inhibition of the same provides targeted therapy for the management of cancer. The use of gamma (γ)-secretase inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies for cancer treatment involved NOTCH receptors inhibition, leading to the possibility of a targeted approach for cancer treatment. Likewise, several natural compounds, including curcumin, resveratrol, diallyl sulfide, and genistein, also play a dynamic role in the management of cancer by inhibition of NOTCH receptors. This review outlines the functions and structure of NOTCH receptors and their associated ligands with the mechanism of the signaling pathway. In addition, it also emphasizes the role of NOTCH-targeted nanomedicine in various cancer treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lakshmi Kumari
- Department of Pharmaceutics, ISF College Pharmacy, Moga, India
| | | | - Yash Sharma
- Department of Pharmaceutical Quality Assurance, ISF College Pharmacy, Moga, India
| | - Kanak Chahar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Quality Assurance, ISF College Pharmacy, Moga, India
| | - Mritunjay Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Quality Assurance, ISF College Pharmacy, Moga, India
| | - Preeti Patel
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, ISF College Pharmacy, Moga, India
| | | | - Balak Das Kurmi
- Department of Pharmaceutics, ISF College Pharmacy, Moga, India
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Fernandes Q, Therachiyil L, Khan AQ, Bedhiafi T, Korashy HM, Bhat AA, Uddin S. Shrinking the battlefield in cancer therapy: Nanotechnology against cancer stem cells. Eur J Pharm Sci 2023; 191:106586. [PMID: 37729956 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2023.106586] [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: 06/24/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
Cancer remains one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide, presenting a significant healthcare challenge owing to the limited efficacy of current treatments. The application of nanotechnology in cancer treatment leverages the unique optical, magnetic, and electrical attributes of nanomaterials to engineer innovative, targeted therapies. Specifically, manipulating nanomaterials allows for enhanced drug loading efficiency, improved bioavailability, and targeted delivery systems, reducing the non-specific cytotoxic effects characteristic of conventional chemotherapies. Furthermore, recent advances in nanotechnology have demonstrated encouraging results in specifically targeting CSCs, a key development considering the role of these cells in disease recurrence and resistance to treatment. Despite these breakthroughs, the clinical approval rates of nano-drugs have not kept pace with research advances, pointing to existing obstacles that must be addressed. In conclusion, nanotechnology presents a novel, powerful tool in the fight against cancer, particularly in targeting the elusive and treatment-resistant CSCs. This comprehensive review delves into the intricacies of nanotherapy, explicitly targeting cancer stem cells, their markers, and associated signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Queenie Fernandes
- College of Medicine, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar; Translational Cancer Research Facility, Hamad Medical Corporation, National Center for Cancer Care and Research, PO. Box 3050, Doha, Qatar
| | - Lubna Therachiyil
- Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Translational Research Institute, Doha 3050, Qatar; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar
| | - Abdul Q Khan
- Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Translational Research Institute, Doha 3050, Qatar
| | - Takwa Bedhiafi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar
| | - Hesham M Korashy
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar
| | - Ajaz A Bhat
- Department of Human Genetics-Precision Medicine in Diabetes, Obesity and Cancer Program, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
| | - Shahab Uddin
- College of Medicine, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar; Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Dermatology Institute, Doha 3050, Qatar; Laboratory of Animal Research Center, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar; Department of Biosciences, Integral University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh 22602, India.
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Wang J, Tan L, Yu X, Cao X, Jia B, Chen R, Li J. lncRNA ZNRD1-AS1 promotes malignant lung cell proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis via the miR-942/TNS1 axis and is positively regulated by the m 6A reader YTHDC2. Mol Cancer 2022; 21:229. [PMID: 36581942 PMCID: PMC9801573 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-022-01705-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE Lung cancer is the most prevalent form of cancer and has a high mortality rate, making it a global public health concern. The N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification is a highly dynamic and reversible process that is involved in a variety of essential biological processes. Using in vitro, in vivo, and multi-omics bioinformatics, the present study aims to determine the function and regulatory mechanisms of the long non-coding (lnc)RNA zinc ribbon domain-containing 1-antisense 1 (ZNRD1-AS1). METHODS The RNAs that were bound to the m6A 'reader' were identified using YTH domain-containing 2 (YTHDC2) RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP)-sequencing. Utilizing methylated RIP PCR/quantitative PCR, pull-down, and RNA stability assays, m6A modification and ZNRD1-AS1 regulation were analyzed. Using bioinformatics, the expression levels and clinical significance of ZNRD1-AS1 in lung cancer were evaluated. Using fluorescent in situ hybridization and quantitative PCR assays, the subcellular location of ZNRD1-AS1 was determined. Using cell migration, proliferation, and angiogenesis assays, the biological function of ZNRD1-AS1 in lung cancer was determined. In addition, the tumor suppressor effect of ZNRD1-AS1 in vivo was validated using a xenograft animal model. Through bioinformatics analysis and in vitro assays, the downstream microRNAs (miRs) and competing endogenous RNAs were also predicted and validated. RESULTS This study provided evidence that m6A modification mediates YTHDC2-mediated downregulation of ZNRD1-AS1 in lung cancer and cigarette smoke-exposed cells. Low levels of ZNRD1-AS1 expression were linked to adverse clinicopathological characteristics, immune infiltration, and prognosis. ZNRD1-AS1 overexpression was shown to suppress lung cancer cell proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo, and to reduce tumor growth in nude mice. ZNRD1-AS1 expression was shown to be controlled by treatment of cells with either the methylation inhibitor 3-Deazaadenosine or the demethylation inhibitor Meclofenamic. Furthermore, the miR-942/tensin 1 (TNS1) axis was demonstrated to be the downstream regulatory signaling pathway of ZNRD1-AS1. CONCLUSIONS ZNRD1-AS1 serves an important function and has clinical relevance in lung cancer. In addition, the findings suggested that m6A modification could mediate the regulation of the ZNRD1-AS1/miR-942/TNS1 axis via the m6A reader YTHDC2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Wang
- grid.263761.70000 0001 0198 0694School of Public Health, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123 Jiangsu China
| | - Lirong Tan
- grid.263761.70000 0001 0198 0694School of Public Health, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123 Jiangsu China
| | - Xueting Yu
- grid.263761.70000 0001 0198 0694School of Public Health, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123 Jiangsu China
| | - Xiyuan Cao
- grid.263761.70000 0001 0198 0694School of Public Health, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123 Jiangsu China
| | - Beibei Jia
- grid.263761.70000 0001 0198 0694School of Public Health, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123 Jiangsu China
| | - Rui Chen
- grid.452666.50000 0004 1762 8363Department of Respiratory Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou Jiangsu, 215004 China
| | - Jianxiang Li
- grid.263761.70000 0001 0198 0694School of Public Health, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123 Jiangsu China
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7
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Dorovskikh SI, Vikulova ES, Sergeevichev DS, Guselnikova TY, Zheravin AA, Nasimov DA, Vasilieva MB, Chepeleva EV, Saprykin AI, Basova TV, Morozova NB. Biological Studies of New Implant Materials Based on Carbon and Polymer Carriers with Film Heterostructures Containing Noble Metals. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10092230. [PMID: 36140329 PMCID: PMC9496383 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10092230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper presents pioneering results on the evaluation of noble metal film hetero-structures to improve some functional characteristics of carbon-based implant materials: carbon-composite material (CCM) and carbon-fiber-reinforced polyetheretherketone (CFR-PEEK). Metal-organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) was successfully applied to the deposition of Ir, Pt, and PtIr films on these carriers. A noble metal layer as thin as 1 µm provided clear X-ray imaging of 1−2.5 mm thick CFR-PEEK samples. The coated and pristine CCM and CFR-PEEK samples were further surface-modified with Au and Ag nanoparticles (NPs) through MOCVD and physical vapor deposition (PVD) processes, respectively. The composition and microstructural features, the NPs sizes, and surface concentrations were determined. In vitro biological studies included tests for cytotoxicity and antibacterial properties. A series of samples were selected for subcutaneous implantation in rats (up to 3 months) and histological studies. The bimetallic PtIr-based heterostructures showed no cytotoxicity in vitro, but were less biocompatible due to a dense two-layered fibrous capsule. AuNP heterostructures on CFR-PEEK promoted cell proliferation in vitro and exhibited a strong inhibition of bacterial growth (p < 0.05) and high in vitro biocompatibility, especially Au/Ir structures. AgNP heterostructures showed a more pronounced antibacterial effect, while their in vivo biocompatibility was better than that of the pristine CFR-PEEK, but worse than that of AuNP heterostructures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Svetlana I. Dorovskikh
- Nikolaev Institute of Inorganic Chemistry Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences SB RAS, 3 Lavrentiev Ave., 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Evgeniia S. Vikulova
- Nikolaev Institute of Inorganic Chemistry Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences SB RAS, 3 Lavrentiev Ave., 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - David S. Sergeevichev
- «E. Meshalkin National Medical Research Center» of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, 15 Rechkunovskaya Str., 630055 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Tatiana Ya. Guselnikova
- Nikolaev Institute of Inorganic Chemistry Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences SB RAS, 3 Lavrentiev Ave., 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Alexander A. Zheravin
- «E. Meshalkin National Medical Research Center» of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, 15 Rechkunovskaya Str., 630055 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Dmitriy A. Nasimov
- Rzhanov Institute of Semiconductor Physics SB RAS, 13 Lavrentiev Ave., 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Maria B. Vasilieva
- «E. Meshalkin National Medical Research Center» of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, 15 Rechkunovskaya Str., 630055 Novosibirsk, Russia
- Zelman Institute for the Medicine and Psychology, Novosibirsk State University, 1, Pirogov Str., 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Elena V. Chepeleva
- «E. Meshalkin National Medical Research Center» of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, 15 Rechkunovskaya Str., 630055 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Anatoly I. Saprykin
- Nikolaev Institute of Inorganic Chemistry Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences SB RAS, 3 Lavrentiev Ave., 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Tamara V. Basova
- Nikolaev Institute of Inorganic Chemistry Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences SB RAS, 3 Lavrentiev Ave., 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Natalya B. Morozova
- Nikolaev Institute of Inorganic Chemistry Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences SB RAS, 3 Lavrentiev Ave., 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +7-3833309556
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8
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Giuli MV, Mancusi A, Giuliani E, Screpanti I, Checquolo S. Notch signaling in female cancers: a multifaceted node to overcome drug resistance. CANCER DRUG RESISTANCE (ALHAMBRA, CALIF.) 2022; 4:805-836. [PMID: 35582386 PMCID: PMC8992449 DOI: 10.20517/cdr.2021.53] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Drug resistance is one of the main challenges in cancer therapy, including in the treatment of female-specific malignancies, which account for more than 60% of cancer cases among women. Therefore, elucidating the underlying molecular mechanisms is an urgent need in gynecological cancers to foster novel therapeutic approaches. Notably, Notch signaling, including either receptors or ligands, has emerged as a promising candidate given its multifaceted role in almost all of the hallmarks of cancer. Concerning the connection between Notch pathway and drug resistance in the afore-mentioned tumor contexts, several studies focused on the Notch-dependent regulation of the cancer stem cell (CSC) subpopulation or the induction of the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), both features implicated in either intrinsic or acquired resistance. Indeed, the present review provides an up-to-date overview of the published results on Notch signaling and EMT- or CSC-driven drug resistance. Moreover, other drug resistance-related mechanisms are examined such as the involvement of the Notch pathway in drug efflux and tumor microenvironment. Collectively, there is a long way to go before every facet will be fully understood; nevertheless, some small pieces are falling neatly into place. Overall, the main aim of this review is to provide strong evidence in support of Notch signaling inhibition as an effective strategy to evade or reverse resistance in female-specific cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria V Giuli
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Angelica Mancusi
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Eugenia Giuliani
- Scientific Direction, San Gallicano Dermatological Institute IRCCS, Rome 00144, Italy
| | - Isabella Screpanti
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome 00161, Italy
| | - Saula Checquolo
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnology, Sapienza University, Latina 04100, Italy.,Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rome 00161, Italy
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Fang FY, Rosenblum JS, Ho WS, Heiss JD. New Developments in the Pathogenesis, Therapeutic Targeting, and Treatment of Pediatric Medulloblastoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14092285. [PMID: 35565414 PMCID: PMC9100249 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14092285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Pediatric medulloblastoma (MB) is the most common pediatric brain tumor with varying prognoses depending on the distinct molecular subtype. The four consensus subgroups are WNT, Sonic hedgehog (SHH), Group 3, and Group 4, which underpin the current 2021 WHO classification of MB. While the field of knowledge for treating this disease has significantly advanced over the past decade, a deeper understanding is still required to improve the clinical outcomes for pediatric patients, who are often vulnerable in ways that adult patients are not. Here, we discuss how recent insights into the pathogenesis of pediatric medulloblastoma have directed current and future research. This review highlights new developments in understanding the four molecular subtypes’ pathophysiology, epigenetics, and therapeutic targeting. In addition, we provide a focused discussion of recent developments in imaging, and in the surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy of pediatric medulloblastoma. The article includes a brief explanation of healthcare costs associated with medulloblastoma treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francia Y. Fang
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA;
| | - Jared S. Rosenblum
- Neuro-Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA;
| | - Winson S. Ho
- Department of Neurosurgery, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA;
| | - John D. Heiss
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
- Correspondence:
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10
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Li J, Fang R, Wu J, Si Y, Bai J, Wang Q. The NOP14 nucleolar protein suppresses the function and stemness of melanoma stem-like cells through Wnt/beta-catenin signaling inactivation. Bioengineered 2022; 13:7648-7658. [PMID: 35282769 PMCID: PMC9208496 DOI: 10.1080/21655979.2022.2050491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are closely related to tumor occurrence, development, metastasis, drug resistance, and recurrence. The role of CSCs in melanoma is poorly understood. Our previous studies suggested that the NOP14 nucleolar protein (NOP14) is involved in melanoma pathogenesis regulation. Importantly, NOP14 overexpression inhibits the Wnt/beta (β)-catenin signaling pathway, an important mechanism regulating CSCs stemness. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to explore the role of NOP14 in the stemness and function of CSCs in melanoma in vitro. CD133, a stem cell marker, was used to identify melanoma stem-like cells (SLCs). NOP14 overexpression subsequently decreased the proportion of CD133+ SLCs, impaired the colony-forming capabilities, and downregulated the expression of Nanog, SOX2, and OCT4 stem cell markers in A375 and A875 cells, suggesting that NOP14 suppresses the stemness of melanoma SLCs. NOP14 overexpression suppressed the migration, invasion, and angiogenesis-inducing ability of A375-SLCs and A875-SLCs. NOP14 overexpression also inactivated Wnt/β-catenin signaling in melanoma CD133+ SLCs. The Wnt signaling activator BML-284 alleviated the effect of NOP14 overexpression on the stemness and function of melanoma CSCs. In conclusion, NOP14 suppresses the stemness and function of melanoma SLCs by inactivating Wnt/β-catenin signaling. Thus, NOP14 is a novel target for CSC treatment in melanoma. Abbreviations: CSCs, cancer stem cells; SLCs, stem-like cells; NOP14, NOP14 nucleolar protein; SCID, severe combined immunodeficiency; β-catenin, beta-catenin; lv-NOP14, lentivirals expressing NOP14; PBS, phosphate buffer saline; HUVECs, human umbilical vein endothelial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingrong Li
- Department of Dermatology, Guangzhou First People’s Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Ruihua Fang
- Department of Dermatology, Guangzhou First People’s Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Jiang Wu
- Department of Dermatology, Guangzhou First People’s Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Yuan Si
- Department of Dermatology, Guangzhou First People’s Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Jingzhu Bai
- Department of Dermatology, Guangzhou First People’s Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Qi Wang
- Department of Dermatology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
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Ba MC, Ba Z, Gong YF, Lin KP, Wu YB, Tu YN. Knockdown of lncRNA ZNRD1-AS1 suppresses gastric cancer cell proliferation and metastasis by targeting the miR-9-5p/HSP90AA1 axis. Aging (Albany NY) 2021; 13:17285-17301. [PMID: 34226297 PMCID: PMC8312431 DOI: 10.18632/aging.203209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
LncRNAs play an important role in a variety of biological processes, such as cancer pathogenesis. The lncRNA zinc ribbon domain containing 1 antisense RNA 1 (ZNRD1-AS1) is a natural antisense transcript of ZNRD1. In this study, we found that ZNRD1-AS1 levels were significantly upregulated in gastric cancer tissues compared to those in adjacent healthy gastric tissues. ZNRD1-AS1 levels were correlated with lymph node metastasis, distal metastasis, and TNM stage, but were not correlated with age and sex. ZNRD1-AS1 knockdown suppressed cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, and promoted apoptosis. ZNRD1-AS1 overexpression had the opposite effect. ZNRD1-AS1 knockdown suppressed tumor growth and pulmonary metastasis in a nude mouse model ZNRD1-AS1 can bind to miR-9-5p and ZNRD1-AS1 knockdown can decrease the protein level of heat shock protein 90 alpha family class A member 1 (HSP90AA1), which is the target of miR-9-5p. The miR-9-5p inhibitor rescued the effect of ZNRD1-AS1 knockdown, and the mutant of miR-9-5p binding site on ZNRD1-AS1 sequence blocked the effect of ZNRD1-AS1 overexpression. In conclusion, ZNRD1-AS1 levels were upregulated in gastric cancer tissues, and knockdown of ZNRD1-AS1 suppressed gastric cancer cell proliferation and metastasis by targeting the miR-9-5p/HSP90AA1 axis. Our findings provide novel insights into the mechanism underlying the role of ZNRD1-AS1 in gastric cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Chen Ba
- Intracelom Hyperthermic Perfusion Therapy Center, Affiliated Cancer Hospital and Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510095, P.R. China
| | - Zheng Ba
- Department of Adult Intensive Care Unit, University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518053, P.R. China
| | - Yuan-Feng Gong
- Intracelom Hyperthermic Perfusion Therapy Center, Affiliated Cancer Hospital and Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510095, P.R. China
| | - Kun-Peng Lin
- Intracelom Hyperthermic Perfusion Therapy Center, Affiliated Cancer Hospital and Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510095, P.R. China
| | - Yin-Bing Wu
- Intracelom Hyperthermic Perfusion Therapy Center, Affiliated Cancer Hospital and Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510095, P.R. China
| | - Yi-Nuo Tu
- Intracelom Hyperthermic Perfusion Therapy Center, Affiliated Cancer Hospital and Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510095, P.R. China
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12
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Caimano M, Lospinoso Severini L, Loricchio E, Infante P, Di Marcotullio L. Drug Delivery Systems for Hedgehog Inhibitors in the Treatment of SHH-Medulloblastoma. Front Chem 2021; 9:688108. [PMID: 34164380 PMCID: PMC8215655 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2021.688108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Medulloblastoma (MB) is a highly aggressive pediatric tumor of the cerebellum. Hyperactivation of the Hedgehog (HH) pathway is observed in about 30% of all MB diagnoses, thereby bringing out its pharmacological blockade as a promising therapeutic strategy for the clinical management of this malignancy. Two main classes of HH inhibitors have been developed: upstream antagonists of Smoothened (SMO) receptor and downstream inhibitors of GLI transcription factors. Unfortunately, the poor pharmacological properties of many of these molecules have limited their investigation in clinical trials for MB. In this minireview, we focus on the drug delivery systems engineered for SMO and GLI inhibitors as a valuable approach to improve their bioavailability and efficiency to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB), one of the main challenges in the treatment of MB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Caimano
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Elena Loricchio
- Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Infante
- Center for Life Nano Science@Sapienza, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Rome, Italy
| | - Lucia Di Marcotullio
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
- Laboratory Affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Rome, Italy
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13
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Simioni C, Conti I, Varano G, Brenna C, Costanzi E, Neri LM. The Complexity of the Tumor Microenvironment and Its Role in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: Implications for Therapies. Front Oncol 2021; 11:673506. [PMID: 34026651 PMCID: PMC8131840 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.673506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The microenvironment that surrounds a tumor, in addition to the tumor itself, plays an important role in the onset of resistance to molecularly targeted therapies. Cancer cells and their microenvironment interact closely between them by means of a molecular communication that mutually influences their biological characteristics and behavior. Leukemia cells regulate the recruitment, activation and program of the cells of the surrounding microenvironment, including those of the immune system. Studies on the interactions between the bone marrow (BM) microenvironment and Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) cells have opened a scenario of potential therapeutic targets which include cytokines and their receptors, signal transduction networks, and hypoxia-related proteins. Hypoxia also enhances the formation of new blood vessels, and several studies show how angiogenesis could have a key role in the pathogenesis of ALL. Knowledge of the molecular mechanisms underlying tumor-microenvironment communication and angiogenesis could contribute to the early diagnosis of leukemia and to personalized molecular therapies. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Innovative Multi-Disciplinary Approaches for Precision Studies in Leukemia edited by Sandra Marmiroli (University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy) and Xu Huang (University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom).
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Simioni
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA) - Electron Microscopy Center, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Ilaria Conti
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Gabriele Varano
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Cinzia Brenna
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Eva Costanzi
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Luca M Neri
- Laboratory for Technologies of Advanced Therapies (LTTA) - Electron Microscopy Center, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.,Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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14
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Valcourt DM, Day ES. Dual Regulation of miR-34a and Notch Signaling in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer by Antibody/miRNA Nanocarriers. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2020; 21:290-298. [PMID: 32622330 PMCID: PMC7332498 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2020.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2020] [Revised: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subtype of breast cancer that lacks expression of the three most common receptors present on other subtypes, leaving it unsusceptible to current targeted or hormonal therapies. In this study, we introduce an alternative treatment strategy for TNBC that exploits its overexpression of Notch1 receptors and its underexpression of the tumor suppressive microRNA (miRNA) miR-34a. Studies have shown that introducing mimics of miR-34a to TNBC cells effectively inhibits cancer growth, but miR-34a cannot be administered in the clinic without a carrier. To enable delivery of miR-34a to TNBC cells, we encapsulated miR-34a mimics in poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles (NPs) that were functionalized with Notch1 antibodies to produce N1-34a-NPs. In addition to binding Notch1 receptors overexpressed on the surface of TNBC cells, the antibodies in this formulation enable suppression of Notch signaling through signal cascade interference. Herein, we present the results of in vitro experiments that demonstrate N1-34a-NPs can regulate Notch signaling and downstream miR-34a targets in TNBC cells to induce senescence and reduce cell proliferation and migration. These studies demonstrate that NP-mediated co-delivery of miR-34a and Notch1 antibodies is a promising alternative treatment strategy for TNBC, warranting further optimization and in vivo investigation in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle M Valcourt
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Delaware, 161 Colburn Lab, Newark, DE 19716, USA
| | - Emily S Day
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Delaware, 161 Colburn Lab, Newark, DE 19716, USA; Department of Materials Science & Engineering, University of Delaware, 201 DuPont Hall, Newark, DE 19716, USA; Helen F. Graham Cancer Center & Research Institute, 4701 Ogletown Stanton Road, Newark, DE 19713, USA.
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15
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Valcourt DM, Dang MN, Scully MA, Day ES. Nanoparticle-Mediated Co-Delivery of Notch-1 Antibodies and ABT-737 as a Potent Treatment Strategy for Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. ACS NANO 2020; 14:3378-3388. [PMID: 32083466 PMCID: PMC7098846 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.9b09263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) accounts for nearly one-quarter of all breast cancer cases, but effective targeted therapies for this disease remain elusive because TNBC cells lack expression of the three most common receptors seen on other subtypes of breast cancer. Here, we exploit TNBC cells' overexpression of Notch-1 receptors and Bcl-2 anti-apoptotic proteins to provide an effective targeted therapy. Prior studies have shown that the small molecule drug ABT-737, which inhibits Bcl-2 to reinstate apoptotic signaling, is a promising candidate for TNBC therapy. However, ABT-737 is poorly soluble in aqueous conditions, and its orally bioavailable derivative causes severe thrombocytopenia. To enable targeted delivery of ABT-737 to TNBC and enhance its therapeutic efficacy, we encapsulated the drug in poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles (NPs) that were functionalized with Notch-1 antibodies to produce N1-ABT-NPs. The antibodies in this NP platform enable both TNBC cell-specific binding and suppression of Notch signaling within TNBC cells by locking the Notch-1 receptors in a ligand unresponsive state. This Notch inhibition potentiates the effect of ABT-737 by up-regulating Noxa, resulting in effective killing of TNBC cells. We present the results of in vitro studies that demonstrate N1-ABT-NPs can preferentially bind TNBC cells versus noncancerous breast epithelial cells to effectively regulate Bcl-2 and Notch signaling to induce cell death. Further, we show that N1-ABT-NPs can accumulate in subcutaneous TNBC xenograft tumors in mice following systemic administration to reduce tumor burden and extend animal survival. Together, these findings demonstrate that NP-mediated co-delivery of Notch-1 antibodies and ABT-737 is a potent treatment strategy for TNBC that may improve patient outcomes with further development and implementation.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Antibodies, Monoclonal/chemistry
- Antibodies, Monoclonal/metabolism
- Antibodies, Monoclonal/pharmacology
- Antineoplastic Agents/chemistry
- Antineoplastic Agents/metabolism
- Antineoplastic Agents/pharmacology
- Biphenyl Compounds/chemistry
- Biphenyl Compounds/metabolism
- Biphenyl Compounds/pharmacology
- Cell Death/drug effects
- Cell Proliferation/drug effects
- Cells, Cultured
- Female
- Humans
- Mammary Neoplasms, Experimental/diagnostic imaging
- Mammary Neoplasms, Experimental/drug therapy
- Mammary Neoplasms, Experimental/metabolism
- Mice
- Mice, Nude
- Nanoparticles/chemistry
- Nanoparticles/metabolism
- Nitrophenols/chemistry
- Nitrophenols/metabolism
- Nitrophenols/pharmacology
- Optical Imaging
- Piperazines/chemistry
- Piperazines/metabolism
- Piperazines/pharmacology
- Receptor, Notch1/chemistry
- Receptor, Notch1/metabolism
- Sulfonamides/chemistry
- Sulfonamides/metabolism
- Sulfonamides/pharmacology
- Triple Negative Breast Neoplasms/diagnostic imaging
- Triple Negative Breast Neoplasms/drug therapy
- Triple Negative Breast Neoplasms/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle M Valcourt
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Delaware, 161 Colburn Lab, Newark, Delaware 19716, United States
| | - Megan N Dang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Delaware, 161 Colburn Lab, Newark, Delaware 19716, United States
| | - Mackenzie A Scully
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Delaware, 161 Colburn Lab, Newark, Delaware 19716, United States
| | - Emily S Day
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Delaware, 161 Colburn Lab, Newark, Delaware 19716, United States
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Delaware, 201 DuPont Hall, Newark, Delaware 19716, United States
- Helen F. Graham Cancer Center and Research Institute, 4701 Ogletown Stanton Road, Newark, Delaware 19713, United States
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