Interleukin-22 promotes tumor angiogenesis

A Novel Ex Vivo Tumor Spheroid-Tissue Model for Investigating Microvascular Remodeling and Lymphatic Blood Vessel Plasticity

Biomimetic tumor microenvironment models bridge the gap between in vitro and in vivo systems and serve as a useful way to address the modeling challenge of how to recreate the cell and system complexity associated with real tissues. Our laboratory has developed an ex vivo rat mesentery culture model, which allows for simultaneous investigation of blood and lymphatic microvascular network remodeling in an intact tissue environment. Given that angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis are key contributors to the progression of cancer, the objective of this study was to combine tissue and tumor spheroid culture methods to establish a novel ex vivo tumor spheroid-tissue model by verifying its use for evaluating the effects of cancer cell behavior on the local microvascular environment. H1299 or A549 tumor spheroids were formed via hanging drop culture and seeded onto rat mesenteric tissues harvested from adult male Wistar rats. Tissues with transplanted spheroids were cultured in serum-free media for 3 to 5 days. PECAM, NG2, CD11b, and αSMA labeling identified endothelial cells, pericytes, immune cells, and smooth muscle cells, respectively. Time-lapse imaging confirmed cancer cell type specific migration. In addition to increasing PECAM positive capillary sprouting and LYVE-1 positive endothelial cell extensions indicative of lymphangiogenesis, tumor spheroid presence induced the formation of lymphatic/blood vessel connections and the formation of hybrid, mosaic vessels that were characterized by discontinuous LYVE-1 labeling. The results support the application of a novel tumor spheroid microenvironment model for investigating cancer cell-microvascular interactions.

IL-28A/IL-10Rβ axis promotes angiogenesis via eNOS/AKT signaling and AP-1/NF-κB/MMP-2 network by regulating HSP70-1 expression

INTRODUCTION

Angiogenesis plays a significant role in the development of tumor progression and inflammatory diseases. The role of IL-28A in angiogenesis and its precise regulatory mechanisms remain rarely elucidated.

OBJECTIVES

We report the novel regulatory role of IL-28A in physiological angiogenesis. The study aimed to elucidate the regulatory mechanisms involved in IL-28A-mediated angiogenesis and identify key genes associated with IL-28A-induced angiogenic responses.

METHODS

To know the effect of IL-28A on angiogenesis, HUVECs were applied to perform proliferation, migration, invasion, tube formation, immunoblot, and EMSA. Gene expression changes in HUVECs following IL-28A treatment were analyzed by NGS. The functional role of HSP70-1 and IL-10Rβ in IL-28A-induced angiogenic responses was evaluated using PCR and siRNA knockdown. Animal studies were conducted by aortic ring ex vivo assays, Matrigel plug in vivo assays, and immunochemistry using HSP70-1 knockout and transgenic mice models. The efficacy of IL-28A in angiogenesis was confirmed in a hind-limb ischemia model.

RESULTS

Autocrine/paracrine actions in HUVECs regulated IL-28A protein expression. Exogenous IL-28A increased the proliferation of HUVECs via eNOS/AKT and ERK1/2 signaling. IL-28A treatment promoted migration, invasion, and capillary tube formation of HUVECs through induction of the AP-1/NF-κB/MMP-2 network, which was associated with eNOS/AKT and ERK1/2 signaling. The efficacy of IL-28A-induced angiogenic potential was confirmed by aortic ring and Matrigel plug assay. HSP70-1 was identified as an IL-28A-mediated angiogenic effector gene using bioinformatics. Knockdown of HSP70-1 abolished angiogenic responses and eNOS/AKT signaling in IL-28A-treated HUVECs. IL-28A-induced microvessel sprouting formation was testified in HSP70-1-deficient and HSP70-1 transgenic mice. Flow recovery in hind-limb ischemia mice was accelerated by IL-28A injection. Finally, ablation of the IL-10Rβ gene impeded the angiogenic responses and eNOS/AKT signaling stimulated by IL-28A in HUVECs.

CONCLUSION

HSP70-1 drives the progression of angiogenesis by the IL-28A/IL-10Rβ axis via eNOS/AKT signaling and the AP-1/NF-κB/MMP-2 network.

Microbial metabolites affect tumor progression, immunity and therapy prediction by reshaping the tumor microenvironment (Review)

Several studies have indicated that the gut microbiome and tumor microbiota may affect tumors. Emerging metabolomics research illustrates the need to examine the variations in microbial metabolite composition between patients with cancer and healthy individuals. Microbial metabolites can impact the progression of tumors and the immune response by influencing a number of mechanisms, including modulation of the immune system, cancer or immune‑related signaling pathways, epigenetic modification of proteins and DNA damage. Microbial metabolites can also alleviate side effects and drug resistance during chemotherapy and immunotherapy, while effectively activating the immune system to exert tumor immunotherapy. Nevertheless, the impact of microbial metabolites on tumor immunity can be both beneficial and harmful, potentially influenced by the concentration of the metabolites or the specific cancer type. The present review summarizes the roles of various microbial metabolites in different solid tumors, alongside their influence on tumor immunity and treatment. Additionally, clinical trials evaluating the therapeutic effects of microbial metabolites or related microbes on patients with cancer have been listed. In summary, studying microbial metabolites, which play a crucial role in the interaction between the microbiota and tumors, could lead to the identification of new supplementary treatments for cancer. This has the potential to improve the effectiveness of cancer treatment and enhance patient prognosis.

Genetic Engineering Bacillus thuringiensis Enable Melanin Biosynthesis for Anti-Tumor and Anti-Inflammation

Collaboration between cancer treatment and inflammation management has emerged as an integral facet of comprehensive cancer care. Nevertheless, the development of interventions concurrently targeting both inflammation and cancer has encountered significant challenges stemming from various external factors. Herein, a bioactive agent synthesized by genetically engineering melanin-producing Bacillus thuringiensis (B. thuringiensis) bacteria, simultaneously achieves eco-friendly photothermal agent and efficient reactive oxygen/nitrogen species (RONS) scavenger benefits, perfectly tackling present toughies from inflammation to cancer therapies. The biologically derived melanin exhibits exceptional photothermal-conversion performance, facilitating potent photonic hyperthermia that effectively eradicates tumor cells and tissues, thereby impeding tumor growth. Additionally, the RONS-scavenging properties of melanin produced by B. thuringiensis bacteria contribute to inflammation reduction, augmenting the efficacy of photothermal tumor repression. This study presents a representative paradigm of genetic engineering in B. thuringiensis bacteria to produce functional agents tailored for diverse biomedical applications, encompassing inflammation and cancer therapy.

A distinct "repair" role of regulatory T cells in fracture healing

Regulatory T cells (Tregs) suppress immune responses and inflammation. Here, we described the distinct nonimmunological role of Tregs in fracture healing. The recruitment from the circulation pool, peripheral induction, and local expansion rapidly enriched Tregs in the injured bone. The Tregs in the injured bone displayed superiority in direct osteogenesis over Tregs from lymphoid organs. Punctual depletion of Tregs compromised the fracture healing process, which leads to increased bone nonunion. In addition, bone callus Tregs showed unique T-cell receptor repertoires. Amphiregulin was the most overexpressed protein in bone callus Tregs, and it can directly facilitate the proliferation and differentiation of osteogenic precursor cells by activation of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B signaling pathways. The results of loss- and gain-function studies further evidenced that amphiregulin can reverse the compromised healing caused by Treg dysfunction. Tregs also enriched in patient bone callus and amphiregulin can promote the osteogenesis of human pre-osteoblastic cells. Our findings indicate the distinct and nonredundant role of Tregs in fracture healing, which will provide a new therapeutic target and strategy in the clinical treatment of fractures.

Immunocytes interact directly with cancer cells in the tumor microenvironment: one coin with two sides and future perspectives

The tumor microenvironment is closely linked to the initiation, promotion, and progression of solid tumors. Among its constitutions, immunologic cells emerge as critical players, facilitating immune evasion and tumor progression. Apart from their indirect impact on anti-tumor immunity, immunocytes directly influence neoplastic cells, either bolstering or impeding tumor advancement. However, current therapeutic modalities aimed at alleviating immunosuppression from regulatory cells on effector immune cell populations may not consistently yield satisfactory results in various solid tumors, such as breast carcinoma, colorectal cancer, etc. Therefore, this review outlines and summarizes the direct, dualistic effects of immunocytes such as T cells, innate lymphoid cells, B cells, eosinophils, and tumor-associated macrophages on tumor cells within the tumor microenvironment. The review also delves into the underlying mechanisms involved and presents the outcomes of clinical trials based on these direct effects, aiming to propose innovative and efficacious therapeutic strategies for addressing solid tumors.

Role of T cells in liver metastasis

The liver is a major metastatic site (organ) for gastrointestinal cancers (such as colorectal, gastric, and pancreatic cancers) as well as non-gastrointestinal cancers (such as lung, breast, and melanoma cancers). Due to the innate anatomical position of the liver, the apoptosis of T cells in the liver, the unique metabolic regulation of hepatocytes and other potential mechanisms, the liver tends to form an immunosuppressive microenvironment and subsequently form a pre-metastatic niche (PMN), which can promote metastasis and colonization by various tumor cells(TCs). As a result, the critical role of immunoresponse in liver based metastasis has become increasingly appreciated. T cells, a centrally important member of adaptive immune response, play a significant role in liver based metastases and clarifying the different roles of the various T cells subsets is important to guide future clinical treatment. In this review, we first introduce the predisposing factors and related mechanisms of liver metastasis (LM) before introducing the PMN and its transition to LM. Finally, we detail the role of different subsets of T cells in LM and advances in the management of LM in order to identify potential therapeutic targets for patients with LM.

The role of Interleukin-22 in severe acute pancreatitis

Severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) begins with premature activation of enzymes, promoted by the immune system, triggering a potential systemic inflammatory response that leads to organ failure with increased mortality and a bleak prognosis. Interleukin-22 (IL-22) is a cytokine that may have a significant role in SAP. IL-22, a member of the IL-10 cytokine family, has garnered growing interest owing to its potential tissue-protective properties. Recently, emerging research has revealed its specific effects on pancreatic diseases, particularly SAP. This paper provides a review of the latest knowledge on the role of IL-22 and its viability as a therapeutic target in SAP.

Research progress on the pharmacological mechanism, in vivo metabolism and structural modification of Erianin

Erianin is an important bibenzyl compound in dendrobium and has a wide spectrum of pharmacological properties. Since Erianin was discovered, abundant results have been achieved in the in vitro synthesis, structural modification, and pharmacological mechanism research. Researchers have developed a series of simple and efficient in vitro synthesis methods to improve the shortcomings of poor water solubility by replacing the chemical structure or coating it in nanomaterials. Erianin has a broad anti-tumor spectrum and significant anti-tumor effects. In addition, Erianin also has pharmacological actions like immune regulation, anti-inflammatory, and anti-angiogenesis. A comprehensive understanding of the synthesis, metabolism, structural modification, and pharmacological action pathways of Erianin is of great value for the utilization of Erianin. Therefore, this review conducts a relatively systematic look back at Erianin from the above four aspects, to give a reference for the evolvement and further appliance of Erianin.

Efficacy of Forsythia suspensa (Thunb.) Vahl on mouse and rat models of inflammation-related diseases: a meta-analysis

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of the fruits of the medicinal plant Forsythia suspensa (Thunb.) Vahl (FS), in treating inflammation-associated diseases through a meta-analysis of animal models, and also probe deeply into the signaling pathways underlying the progression of inflammation. Materials and methods: All data analyses were performed using Review Manager 5.3 and the results are presented as flow diagrams, risk-of-bias summaries, forest plots, and funnel plots. Summary estimates were calculated using a random- or fixed-effect model, depending on the value of I2. Results: Of the 710 records identified in the initial search, 11 were selected for the final meta-analysis. Each study extracted data from the model and treatment groups for analysis, and the results showed that FS alleviated the inflammatory cytokine levels in serum; oxidant indicator: reactive oxygen species; enzymes of liver function; endotoxin and regulatory cells in blood; and improved the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase. Conclusion: FS effectively reversed the change in acute or chronic inflammation indicators in animal models, and the regulation of multiple channel proteins in inflammatory signaling pathways suggests that FS is a good potential drug for inflammatory disease drug therapy.

Radiogenomics uncovers an interplay between angiogenesis and clinical outcomes in bladder cancer

BACKGROUND

Precision medicine has become a promising clinical treatment strategy for various cancers, including bladder cancer, where angiogenesis plays a critical role in cancer progression. However, the relationship between angiogenesis, immune cell infiltration, clinical outcomes, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy remains unclear.

METHODS

We conducted a comprehensive evaluation of angiogenesis-related genes (ARGs) to identify their association with immune cell infiltration, transcription patterns, and clinical outcomes in bladder cancer. An ARG score was constructed to identify angiogenic subgroups in each sample and we evaluated their predictive performance for overall survival rate and treatment response. In addition, we optimized existing clinical detection protocols by performing image data processing.

RESULTS

Our study revealed the genomic-level mutant landscape and expression patterns of ARGs in bladder cancer specimens. Using analysis, we identified three molecular subgroups where ARG mutations correlated with patients' pathological features, clinical outcomes, and immune cell infiltration. To facilitate clinical applicability, we constructed a precise nomogram based on the ARG score, which significantly correlated with stem cell index and drug sensitivity. Finally, we proposed the radiogenomics model, which combines the precision of genomics with the convenience of radiomics.

CONCLUSION

Our study sheds light on the prognostic characteristics of ARGs in bladder cancer and provides insights into the tumor environment's characteristics to explore more effective immunotherapy strategies. The findings have significant implications for the development of personalized treatment approaches in bladder cancer and pave the way for future studies in this field.

The role of interleukin-22 in mammalian intestinal homeostasis: Friend and foe

Interleukin-22 (IL-22) is an important cytokine in the intestinal environment. IL-22 is mainly produced by immune cells and targeted at nonimmune cells such as epithelial and stromal cells in a broad array of tissues such as -but not restricted to- the liver and adipose tissue. IL-22 therefore connects immune functions with metabolic functions of the host, and since it is induced by the microbiota, connects host functioning to the outside environment. IL-22 induces epithelial cell proliferation aiding in rapid epithelium regeneration and wound healing. Additionally, IL-22 activates antiapoptotic genes and DNA damage response pathways, enhancing epithelial cell survival. Recently, it has also been shown that IL-22 induces Paneth cell differentiation in humans. However, IL-22 can also contribute to intestinal epithelium damage and reduces microbial diversity in the intestine directly or indirectly by inducing excessive antimicrobial peptide production by epithelial cells. Moreover, IL-22 enhances angiogenesis and may therefore support tumorigenesis in the intestine. In conclusion, it appears that whether IL-22 has a beneficial or harmful effect in the mammalian intestine largely depends on its regulation. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current literature and emphasizes that IL-22 signaling outcome depends on the timing and duration of IL-22 production, the presence of it regulators such as IL-22BP, and the specific location of the cytokine production in the gastrointestinal tract.

IL-21 promoting angiogenesis contributes to the development of psoriasis

BACKGROUND

Elevated IL-21 expression which can effectively induce Th17 cell differentiation has been implicated in the pathogenesis of psoriasis, but its role in angiogenesis remains poorly understood.

METHODS

PASI and PSI score assessment was applied to evaluate the severity of psoriatic lesions. The expression of IL-21, IL-21 receptor (IL-21R), CD31, VEGFA, MMP-9, and ICAM-1 in skin was determined by immunohistochemistry or quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. The serum level of IL-21 was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Then, their correlation was analyzed statistically. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) cocultured with conditional medium from normal human epidermal keratinocytes (NHEKs) were treated with IL-21 and/or M5 cocktail (mixture of IL-1α, IL-17A, IL-22, TNF-α, and oncostatin M). The migration and tube formation of HUVECs were detected, and the levels of VEGFA, MMP-9, and ICAM-1 in NHEKs were measured by Western blotting or ELISA.

RESULTS

Increased IL-21 and IL-21R expression was observed in psoriatic sera or skin specimens, with IL-21R mainly locating in keratinocytes and IL-21 in immune cells. Pearson analysis showed significantly positive correlation between IL-21/IL-21R and erythema scores/microvessel density in psoriatic lesions. Moreover, the expression of proangiogenic genes, VEGFA, ICAM-1, and MMP-9 was upregulated in skins of psoriasis. Additionally, in M5 microenvironment, migration and tube formation could be magnified in HUVECs using IL-21 pre-treated NHEK medium. Mechanically, the co-stimulation of IL-21 and M5 to NEHKs increased the expression of ICAM-1.

CONCLUSION

IL-21 could regulate keratinocytes to secrete ICAM-1, thereby promoting angiogenesis in psoriasis.

Pro-angiogenic changes of T-helper lymphocytes in hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia

Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) is a rare inherited disease due to heterozygous loss-of-function mutations on the BMP9/10 pathway (ENG, ACVRL1 or MADH4 mainly). HHT endothelial cells are prone to lose their quiescence, leading to progressive appearance of numerous telangiectases on skin and mucosa (complicated by epistaxis and anemia), and to larger arteriovenous malformations in lungs, liver and brain. HHT is also associated with T lymphocyte abnormalities, which are currently poorly understood. We quantified by flow-cytometry the main T lymphocyte circulating subsets in 40 HHT patients and 20 matched healthy controls. Immunostaining was done on 2 HHT skin telangiectases. Disruptions in T lymphocyte homeostasis was observed, characterized by increases in subsets known to promote angiogenesis: Th2 (1.38% vs 1.15%, p=0.021), Th17 (0.32% vs 0.22%, p=0.019 2) and Treg (4.94% vs 3.51%, p= 0.027). T angiogenic lymphocytes (Tang), defined as CD3+CD31+CXCR4+ T cells, were at similar levels in both groups, but the proportion of VEGF-A+ Tang after stimulation was higher in the HHT group compared to controls (68.2% vs 44.9%, p=0.012). The global HHT T lymphopenia predominantly affected the effector memory T-helper cells (200 vs 270 cells/mm3, p=0.017), and the lymphocytic infiltrate around HHT telangiectases consisted of memory T-helper cells. The Th17 circulating subset was positively correlated with the monthly epistaxis duration (r coefficient: +0,431, p=0.042), prospectively assessed. HHT T-helper lymphocytes are affected by several pro-angiogenic changes, potentially resulting from their recruitment by abnormal endothelial cells. They could constitute a biologically relevant source of VEGF-A and a valuable therapeutic target in HHT.

The roles of lncRNAs in Th17-associated diseases, with special focus on JAK/STAT signaling pathway

One of the most crucial T cell subsets in a variety of autoimmune and chronic inflammatory illnesses is T helper (Th) 17 cells. Th17 cells appear to have an essential role in the clearance of extracellular pathogens during infections. However, Th17 cells are also involved in inflammation and have been implicated in the pathogenesis of several autoimmune diseases and human inflammatory conditions. Due to the involvement of Th17 cells in the onset of Th17-associated diseases, understanding molecular mechanisms of Th17 cell functions may open the door to developing tailored therapies to address these difficult disorders. However, the molecular mechanisms governing Th17 differentiation in various diseases are still not well understood. The JAK/STAT signaling pathway plays a critical role in immune responses and has been linked to various aspects of Th17 cell differentiation and function. In this article, we conducted a comprehensive review of various molecular mechanisms (JAK/STAT, microRNAs, etc.), that can affect the differentiation of Th17 cells in various Th17-associated diseases.

CD4+ T cell-derived IL-22 enhances liver metastasis by promoting angiogenesis

Metastasis is a cancer-related systemic disease and is responsible for the greatest mortality rate among cancer patients. Interestingly, the interaction between the immune system and cancer cells seems to play a key role in metastasis formation in the target organ. However, this complex network is only partially understood. We previously found that IL-22 produced by tissue resident iNKT17 cells promotes cancer cell extravasation, the early step of metastasis. Based on these data, we aimed here to decipher the role of IL-22 in the last step of metastasis formation. We found that IL-22 levels were increased in established metastatic sites in both human and mouse. We also found that Th22 cells were the key source of IL-22 in established metastasis sites, and that deletion of IL-22 in CD4+ T cells was protective in liver metastasis formation. Accordingly, the administration of a murine IL-22 neutralizing antibody in the establishment of metastasis formation significantly reduced the metastatic burden in a mouse model. Mechanistically, IL-22-producing Th22 cells promoted angiogenesis in established metastasis sites. In conclusion, our findings highlight that IL-22 is equally as important in contributing to metastasis formation at late metastatic stages, and thus, identify it as a novel therapeutic target in established metastasis.

Nano-drug delivery system targeting tumor microenvironment: A prospective strategy for melanoma treatment

Melanoma, the most aggressive form of cutaneous malignancy arising from melanocytes, is frequently characterized by metastasis. Despite considerable progress in melanoma therapies, patients with advanced-stage disease often have a poor prognosis due to the limited efficacy, off-target effects, and toxicity associated with conventional drugs. Nanotechnology has emerged as a promising approach to address these challenges with nanoparticles capable of delivering therapeutic agents specifically to the tumor microenvironment (TME). However, the clinical approval of nanomedicines for melanoma treatment remains limited, necessitating further research to develop nanoparticles with improved biocompatibility and precise targeting capabilities. This comprehensive review provides an overview of the current research on nano-drug delivery systems for melanoma treatment, focusing on liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, and inorganic nanoparticles. It discusses the potential of these nanoparticles for targeted drug delivery, as well as their ability to enhance the efficacy of conventional drugs while minimizing toxicity. Furthermore, this review emphasizes the significance of interdisciplinary collaboration between researchers from various fields to advance the development of nanomedicines. Overall, this review serves as a valuable resource for researchers and clinicians interested in the potential of nano-drug delivery systems for melanoma treatment and offers insights into future directions for research in this field.

Molecular mechanisms of long non-coding RNAs in differentiation of T Helper17 cells

T helper (Th) 17 cells are one of the most important T cell subsets in a number of autoimmune and chronic inflammatory diseases. During infections, Th17 cells appear to play an important role in the clearance of extracellular pathogens. Th17 cells, on the other hand, are engaged in inflammation and have been linked to the pathophysiology of a number of autoimmune illnesses and human inflammatory disorders. A diverse group of RNA molecules known as lncRNAs serve critical functions in gene expression regulation. They may interact with a wide range of molecules, including DNA, RNA, and proteins, and have a complex structure. LncRNAs, which have restricted or no protein-coding activity, are implicated in a number of illnesses due to their regulatory impact on a variety of biological processes such as cell proliferation, apoptosis, and differentiation. Several lncRNAs have been associated with Th7 cell development in the context of immune cell differentiation. In this article, we cover new studies on the involvement of lncRNAs in Th17 cell differentiation in a variety of disorders, including auto-immune diseases, malignancies, asthma, heart disease, and infections.

Macrophage/microglia polarization for the treatment of diabetic retinopathy

Macrophages/microglia are immune system defense and homeostatic cells that develop from bone marrow progenitor cells. According to the different phenotypes and immune responses of macrophages (Th1 and Th2), the two primary categories of polarized macrophages/microglia are those conventionally activated (M1) and alternatively activated (M2). Macrophage/microglial polarization is a key regulating factor in the development of inflammatory disorders, cancers, metabolic disturbances, and neural degeneration. Macrophage/microglial polarization is involved in inflammation, oxidative stress, pathological angiogenesis, and tissue healing processes in ocular diseases, particularly in diabetic retinopathy (DR). The functional phenotypes of macrophages/microglia affect disease progression and prognosis, and thus regulate the polarization or functional phenotype of microglia at different DR stages, which may offer new concepts for individualized therapy of DR. This review summarizes the involvement of macrophage/microglia polarization in physiological situations and in the pathological process of DR, and discusses the promising role of polarization in personalized treatment of DR.

Exploring the crosstalk between endothelial cells, immune cells, and immune checkpoints in the tumor microenvironment: new insights and therapeutic implications

The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a highly intricate milieu, comprising a multitude of components, including immune cells and stromal cells, that exert a profound influence on tumor initiation and progression. Within the TME, angiogenesis is predominantly orchestrated by endothelial cells (ECs), which foster the proliferation and metastasis of malignant cells. The interplay between tumor and immune cells with ECs is complex and can either bolster or hinder the immune system. Thus, a comprehensive understanding of the intricate crosstalk between ECs and immune cells is essential to advance the development of immunotherapeutic interventions. Despite recent progress, the underlying molecular mechanisms that govern the interplay between ECs and immune cells remain elusive. Nevertheless, the immunomodulatory function of ECs has emerged as a pivotal determinant of the immune response. In light of this, the study of the relationship between ECs and immune checkpoints has garnered considerable attention in the field of immunotherapy. By targeting specific molecular pathways and signaling molecules associated with ECs in the TME, novel immunotherapeutic strategies may be devised to enhance the efficacy of current treatments. In this vein, we sought to elucidate the relationship between ECs, immune cells, and immune checkpoints in the TME, with the ultimate goal of identifying novel therapeutic targets and charting new avenues for immunotherapy.

IL-22 as a target for therapeutic intervention: Current knowledge on its role in various diseases

IL-22 has emerged as a crucial cytokine mediating protective response against pathogens and tissue regeneration. Dysregulated production of IL-22 has been shown to play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of various diseases like malignant tumours, viral, cardiovascular, allergic and autoimmune disorders. Interleukin 22 belongs to IFN-IL-10 cytokine family. It is a major proinflammatory cytokine secreted by activated Th1 cells (Th22), though can also be secreted by many other immune cells like group 3 innate lymphocytes, γδ T cells, NK cells, NK T cells, and mucosal associated invariant T cells. Th22 cells exclusively release IL-22 but not IL-17 or IFN-γ (as Th1 cells releases IFN-γ along with IL-22 and Th17 cells releases IL-17 along with IL-22) and also express aryl hydrocarbon receptor as the key transcription factor. Th22 cells also exhibit expression of chemokine receptor CCR6 and skin-homing receptors CCR4 and CCR10 indicating the involvement of this subset in bolstering epithelial barrier immunity and promoting secretion of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) from intestinal epithelial cells. The function of IL-22 is modulated by IL-22 binding protein (binds to IL-22 and inhibits it binding to its cell surface receptor); which serves as a competitor for IL-22R1 chain of IL-22 receptor. The pathogenic and protective nature of the Th22 cells is modulated both by the site of infected tissue and the type of disease pathology. This review aims to discuss key features of IL-22 biology, comparisons between IL and 22 and IFN-γ and its role as a potential immune therapy target in different maladies.

Neutrophils regulate tumor angiogenesis in oral squamous cell carcinoma and the role of Chemerin

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is the most common malignant tumor of the oral cavity. Tumor angiogenesis plays a crucial role in tumor progression. Studies have established the correlation between neutrophils and tumor angiogenesis in the tumor microenvironment. A previous study found that overexpression of Chemerin- in OSCC increased the infiltration of neutrophils in tumor tissues. This study aims to investigate the mechanisms underlying the regulation of the development and progression of OSCC, which have great significance in enhancing the postoperative survival of patients with OSCC. This study evaluated the accuracy of neutrophil count combined with MVD in predicting patients' survival time and its relationship with clinicopathological parameters and prognosis. Additionally, the study explored the effects of the Chemerin-neutrophil interaction on the angiogenic function of HUVECs. In OSCC, the overexpression of Chemerin promoted the angiogenesis of HUVECs through neutrophils. Moreover, Chemerin upregulated pro-angiogenic factors (e.g., VEGF-A, MMP-9, MMP-2, and S100A9) in neutrophils by activating MEK/ERK signaling pathway. In vivo experiments demonstrated that Chemerin may promote tumor growth by regulating tumor angiogenesis. In conclusion, the results suggest that neutrophil count and MVD serve as poor prognostic factors for patients with OSCC, and their combination is a more effective factor in predicting the survival time of OSCC patients. Neutrophils potentially contribute to angiogenesis through MEK/ERK signaling pathway via Chemerin and participate in the progression and metastasis of OSCC.

Study on the effect and mechanisms of piperine against cervical cancer based on network pharmacology and experimental validation

Piperine has immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties, and its potential in treating cervical cancer needs further exploration. Using data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), we identified immune-related differentially expressed genes (IRDEGs) in cervical cancer. Predicted targets of piperine were compared with cervical cancer-associated genes from various databases. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis, enrichment of GO and KEGG pathways, and molecular docking were performed. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was done to assess prognostic significance. In vitro and in vivo experiments were conducted to confirm findings. We obtained 403 IRDEGs, 125 piperine targets, and 7037 cervical cancer genes. PPI network analysis revealed potential targets and pathways regulated by piperine. Molecular docking showed good binding activity of piperine with specific targets. In vitro, piperine inhibited cervical cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, and promoted apoptosis. In vivo, piperine suppressed tumor growth and downregulated expression of IL-1β and NLRP3 in tumor cells. Piperine also downregulated expression of IL-17A, IL-21, IL-22, and RORγt, and decreased the number of Th17 cells in tumor tissues. Piperine may inhibit cervical cancer progression through modulation of Th17 cell activation mediated by the NLRP3/IL-1β axis. Further studies are warranted to explore the potential of piperine as an immunomodulatory agent in cervical cancer treatment.

LINC00460 promotes angiogenesis by enhancing NF-κB-mediated VEGFA expression in cervical cancer cells

Angiogenesis is a characteristic of tumor development and is key for tumor growth and metastasis. LINC00460 is a long non-coding RNA that plays important yet complex roles in cancer development and progression. Here, we explored the functional mechanism of action of LINC00460 in cervical cancer (CC) angiogenesis for the first time. We found that conditioned medium (CM) from LINC00460-knockdown CC cells attenuated human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) migration, invasion, and tube formation, whereas LINC00460 upregulation had the opposite effects. Mechanistically, LINC00460 stimulated VEGFA transcription. Suppressing VEGF-A reversed the effects of CM from LINC00460-overexpressing CC cells on HUVEC angiogenesis. Recombinant VEGFA eliminated the suppressive effects of CM from LINC00460-knockdown CC cells. Furthermore, LINC00460 enhanced VEGFA expression and promoted angiogenesis by activating the NF-κB pathway. Our data illustrate that LINC00460 can promote angiogenesis by activating the NF-κB-VEGFA axis, suggesting that the axis is a promising target for blocking tumor angiogenesis.

Regulation of tumor angiogenesis by the crosstalk between innate immunity and endothelial cells

Endothelial cells and immune cells are major regulators of cancer progression and prognosis. Endothelial cell proliferation and angiogenesis are required for providing nutrients and oxygen to the nascent tumor and infiltration of immune cells to the tumor is dependent on endothelial cell activation. Myeloid cells and innate lymphocytes have an important role in shaping the tumor microenvironment by crosstalking with cancer cells and structural cells, including endothelial cells. Innate immune cells can modulate the activation and functions of tumor endothelial cells, and, in turn, endothelial cell expression of adhesion molecules can affect immune cell extravasation. However, the mechanisms underlying this bidirectional crosstalk are not fully understood. In this review, we will provide an overview of the current knowledge on the pathways regulating the crosstalk between innate immune cells and endothelial cells during tumor progression and discuss their potential contribution to the development of novel anti-tumor therapeutic approaches.

Kynurenine pathway metabolites modulated the comorbidity of IBD and depressive symptoms through the immune response

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, is defined as chronic inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. Notably, more than 20% of people with IBD experience depressive symptoms. Understanding the immunological mechanism of chronic intestinal inflammation on cognitive behavior has become a key research focus. Previous studies have shown that a dysregulated immune response contributes to chronic inflammation and depressive symptoms. The tolerant phenotype exhibited by immune cells regulates the course of chronic inflammation in distinct ways. In addition, neuroglia, such as microglia and astrocytes specific to the brain, are also influenced by deregulated inflammation to mediate the development of depressive symptoms. The kynurenine pathway (KP), a significant tryptophan metabolic pathway, transforms tryptophan into a series of KP metabolites that modulate chronic inflammation and depressive symptoms. In particular, indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO1), a rate-limiting enzyme in the KP, is activated by chronic inflammation and leads to the production of kynurenine. In addition, disruption of the brain-gut axis induced by IBD allows kynurenine to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and form a series of neuroactive kynurenine metabolites in glial cells. Among them, quinolinic acid continuously accumulates in the brain, indicating depression. Thus, KP metabolites are critical for driving the comorbidity of IBD and depressive symptoms. In this review, the pathological mechanism of KP metabolite-mediated chronic intestinal inflammation and depressive symptoms by regulating the immune response is summarized according to the latest reports.

Butyrate promotes post-stroke outcomes in aged mice via interleukin-22

Aging increases the risk of stroke, may exacerbate neuroinflammatory responses, reduce angiogenesis, and promote white matter damage post-stroke, all of which contribute to long-term functional recovery. Butyric acid, an important gut microbial metabolite, showed the highest correlation with the outcomes of ischemic stroke, and butyrate was selected as an effective treatment for aged stroke mice. Here, we tested the neurorestorative effect and potential therapeutic mechanisms of butyrate in aged mice with stroke. Aged male C57BL/6 J mice (17-19 months) were subjected to photothrombotic stroke. We performed butyrate supplementation in the drinking water for 3 weeks before surgery until 14 days after the stroke. At 14 days after ischemic stroke, white matter damage, leukocyte infiltration, and blood-brain barrier permeability were all decreased in the aged stroke mice that received the butyrate treatment, which also improved neurological outcomes by stimulating angiogenesis. Stroke reduces the level of interleukin-22 (IL-22) and butyrate treatment significantly enhanced IL-22 expression in the brain. To further validate the mechanisms of butyrate promoting neurological function after stroke, monoclonal antibodies were used to block IL-22 in aged stroke mice when butyrate treatment was provided. Blocking IL-22 in butyrate-treated aged stroke fails to improve functional outcomes and attenuated butyrate-induced angiogenesis, increased axon/white matter density and blood-brain barrier (BBB) integrity, but has no effect on inflammatory cells infiltration. In conclusion, butyrate improves outcomes in aged mice after stroke by promoting angiogenesis and BBB integrity and reducing leukocyte infiltration. To some extent, IL-22 may contribute to butyrate treatment induced vascular remodeling and increased BBB integrity responses in aged stroke mice.

IDH2 and TET2 mutations synergize to modulate T Follicular Helper cell functional interaction with the AITL microenvironment

Angioimmunoblastic T cell lymphoma (AITL) is a peripheral T cell lymphoma that originates from T follicular helper (Tfh) cells and exhibits a prominent tumor microenvironment (TME). IDH2 and TET2 mutations co-occur frequently in AITL, but their contribution to tumorigenesis is poorly understood. We developed an AITL mouse model that is driven by Idh2 and Tet2 mutations. Malignant Tfh cells display aberrant transcriptomic and epigenetic programs that impair TCR signaling. Neoplastic Tfh cells bearing combined Idh2 and Tet2 mutations show altered cross-talk with germinal center B cells that promotes B cell clonal expansion while decreasing Fas-FasL interaction and reducing B cell apoptosis. The plasma cell count and angiogenesis are also increased in the Idh2-mutated tumors, implying a major relationship between Idh2 mutation and the characteristic AITL TME. Our mouse model recapitulates several features of human IDH2-mutated AITL and provides a rationale for exploring therapeutic targeting of Tfh-TME cross-talk for AITL patients.

A Role for Mast Cell-Mediated Antibodies in the Formation of Cholesteatoma and Cholesteatoma-Induced Bone Erosion

The study aimed to evaluate the effects and relationships between mast cells in the matrix, mast cell enzymes tryptase and chymase, epithelial proliferation, microvascular density, and bone destruction in cholesteatoma. Thirty-five biopsies diagnosed with cholesteatoma and seven healthy skin tissues taken from the retro-auricular region for control were evaluated. Immunohistochemical studies were performed with CD117, CD34, Ki-67, chymase, and tryptase antibodies, in a single session for all cases and the control group. The relationship between erosion size and antibody load was determined. The mean cholesteatoma epithelium Ki-67 was higher than the control group (p < 0.001). CD117-positive mast cells, chymase-positive mast cells, tryptase-positive mast cells, and microvessel density were significantly higher in the cholesteatoma matrix compared to the control group (p < 0.002, p < 0.001, p < 0.005). In the group with bone erosion scores of two and above, immunohistochemical markers tended to be higher. A positive correlation was found between CD117 and chymase, tryptase, and microvessel density; between tryptase, chymase, and microvessel density; and between chymase and microvessel density. CD117-positive mast cells and chymase-positive mast cells stimulate angiogenesis, increase the epithelium's proliferative capacity in the cholesteatoma matrix, and form cholesteatoma. The increased proliferation of cholesteatoma epithelium and increased vascular density in the matrix exacerbate bone erosion.

Fighting Carcinogenesis with Plant Metabolites by Weakening Proliferative Signaling and Disabling Replicative Immortality Networks of Rapidly Dividing and Invading Cancerous Cells

BACKGROUND

Cancer, an uncontrolled multistage disease causing swift division of cells, is a leading disease with the highest mortality rate. Cellular heterogeneity, evading growth suppressors, resisting cell death, and replicative immortality drive the tumor progression by resisting the therapeutic action of existing anticancer drugs through a series of intrinsic and extrinsic cellular interactions. The innate cellular mechanisms also regulate the replication process as a fence against proliferative signaling, enabling replicative immortality through telomere dysfunction.

AREA COVERED

The conventional genotoxic drugs have several off-target and collateral side effects associated with them. Thus, the need for the therapies targeting cyclin-dependent kinases or P13K signaling pathway to expose cancer cells to immune destruction, deactivation of invasion and metastasis, and maintaining cellular energetics is imperative. Compounds with anticancer attributes isolated from plants and rich in alkaloids, terpenes, and polyphenols have proven to be less toxic and highly targetspecific, making them biologically significant. This has opened a gateway for the exploration of more novel plant molecules by signifying their role as anticancer agents in synergy and alone, making them more effective than the existing cytotoxic regimens.

EXPERT OPINION

In this context, the current review presented recent data on cancer cases around the globe, along with discussing the fundamentals of proliferative signaling and replicative immortality of cancer cells. Recent findings were also highlighted, including antiproliferative and antireplicative action of plant-derived compounds, besides explaining the need for improving drug delivery systems.

Endothelial cells-directed angiogenesis in colorectal cancer: Interleukin as the mediator and pharmacological target

Enhanced angiogenesis is a cancer hallmark and critical for colorectal cancer (CRC) invasion and metastasis. Upon exposure to proangiogenic factors, therefore, targeting tumor-associated proangiogenic factors/receptors hold great promise as a therapeutic modality to treat CRC, particularly metastatic CRC. Accumulating evidence from numerous studies suggests that tumor endothelial cells (ECs) are not only the target of proangiogenic factors, but also function as the cellular source of proangiogenic factors. Studies showed that ECs can produce different proangiogenic factors to participate in the regulation of angiogenesis process, in which ECs-derived interleukins (ILs) show a potential stimulatory effect on angiogenesis via either an direct action on their receptors expressed on progenitor of ECs or an indirect way through enhanced production of other proangiogenic factors. Although a great deal of attention is given to the effects of tumor-derived and immune cell-derived ILs, few studies describe the potential effects of vascular ECs-derived ILs on the tumor angiogenesis process. This review provides an updated summary of available information on proangiogenic ILs, such as IL-1, IL-6, IL-8, IL-17, IL-22, IL-33, IL-34, and IL-37, released by microvascular ECs as potential drivers of the tumor angiogenesis process and discusses their potential as a novel candidate for antiangiogenic target for the treatment of CRC patients.

TGF-beta signal transduction: biology, function and therapy for diseases

The transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) is a crucial cytokine that get increasing concern in recent years to treat human diseases. This signal controls multiple cellular responses during embryonic development and tissue homeostasis through canonical and/or noncanonical signaling pathways. Dysregulated TGF-β signal plays an essential role in contributing to fibrosis via promoting the extracellular matrix deposition, and tumor progression via inducing the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, immunosuppression, and neovascularization at the advanced stage of cancer. Besides, the dysregulation of TGF-beta signal also involves in other human diseases including anemia, inflammatory disease, wound healing and cardiovascular disease et al. Therefore, this signal is proposed to be a promising therapeutic target in these diseases. Recently, multiple strategies targeting TGF-β signals including neutralizing antibodies, ligand traps, small-molecule receptor kinase inhibitors targeting ligand-receptor signaling pathways, antisense oligonucleotides to disrupt the production of TGF-β at the transcriptional level, and vaccine are under evaluation of safety and efficacy for the forementioned diseases in clinical trials. Here, in this review, we firstly summarized the biology and function of TGF-β in physiological and pathological conditions, elaborated TGF-β associated signal transduction. And then, we analyzed the current advances in preclinical studies and clinical strategies targeting TGF-β signal transduction to treat diseases.

Down-regulation of IL-32γ expression reduces killing effect of natural killer cells on esophageal carcinoma cells

BACKGROUND

Interleukin (IL)-32γ is highly expressed in activated natural killer (NK) cells in esophageal cancer. However, it is not clear whether the expression level of IL-32γ in NK cells affects their killing effect on esophageal cancer cells.

AIM

To investigate the role of IL-32γ in the anti-tumor effect of NK cells in esophageal cancer.

METHODS

After transfecting NK-92 cells with shRNA targeting IL-32γ (shIL-32γ), the NK-92 cells were co-cultured with esophageal cancer cells EC9706 and TE-1, respectively. EC9706 and TE-1 cells were then collected; cell viability was measured by cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay, cell proliferation was detected by 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EDU) assay, cell apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry, and the expression of apoptosis-related proteins B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2), Bcl-2-associated X (Bax), cleaved cysteine-containing aspartate-specific proteases 3 (caspase 3), tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily member 6 (FAS), death receptor 3 (DR3), and tumor necrosis factor receptor 2 (TNFR2) was detected by Western blot.

RESULTS

After IL-32γ deletion in NK-92 cells, the cell viability and the EDU positive cells in EC9706 and TE-1 cells in the co-culture system were increased (P < 0.01), the expression level of Bcl-2 was increased (P < 0.01), and the expression levels of Bax, cleaved-caspase 3, FAS, DR3, and TNFR2 were all decreased (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Knockdown of IL-32γ attenuates the anti-tumor effect of NK-92 cells, which may be related to the inhibition of death receptor expression and caspase-3 activation in esophageal cancer cells.

The roles of metabolic profiles and intracellular signaling pathways of tumor microenvironment cells in angiogenesis of solid tumors

Innate and adaptive immune cells patrol and survey throughout the human body and sometimes reside in the tumor microenvironment (TME) with a variety of cell types and nutrients that may differ from those in which they developed. The metabolic pathways and metabolites of immune cells are rooted in cell physiology, and not only provide nutrients and energy for cell growth and survival but also influencing cell differentiation and effector functions. Nowadays, there is a growing awareness that metabolic processes occurring in cancer cells can affect immune cell function and lead to tumor immune evasion and angiogenesis. In order to safely treat cancer patients and prevent immune checkpoint blockade-induced toxicities and autoimmunity, we suggest using anti-angiogenic drugs solely or combined with Immune checkpoint blockers (ICBs) to boost the safety and effectiveness of cancer therapy. As a consequence, there is significant and escalating attention to discovering techniques that target metabolism as a new method of cancer therapy. In this review, a summary of immune-metabolic processes and their potential role in the stimulation of intracellular signaling in TME cells that lead to tumor angiogenesis, and therapeutic applications is provided. Video abstract.

The role of tumor neogenesis pipelines in tumor progression and their therapeutic potential

Pipeline formation between tumor cells and the tumor microenvironment (TME) is a key event leading to tumor progression. These pipelines include blood vessels, lymphatics, and membranous vessels (the former two can be collectively referred to as vasculature). Pipeline regeneration is a feature of all solid tumors; it delivers nutrients to tumors and promotes tumor invasion and metastasis such that cancer cells grow rapidly, escape unfavorable TME, spread to secondary sites, generate tumor drug resistance, and promote postoperative tumor recurrence. Novel tumor therapy strategies must exploit the molecular mechanisms underpinning these pipelines to facilitate more targeted drug therapies. In this review, pipeline generation, influencing factors, pipeline functions during tumor progression, and pipeline potential as drug targets are systematically summarized.

Th22 Cells/IL-22 Serves as a Protumor Regulator to Drive Poor Prognosis through the JAK-STAT3/MAPK/AKT Signaling Pathway in Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer

The interaction of immune cells and cytokines in the tumor microenvironment affects the development and prognosis of tumors with an unclear potential regulatory mechanism. Recent studies have elucidated the protumor role of Th22 cells and its lineage-specific cytokine IL-22 in different human cancers. The present study is aimed at investigating the biological effect of Th22 cells/IL-22 and its molecular mechanism in the pathogenesis process of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). It was initially found that Th22 cells were enriched in the peripheral blood of NSCLC patients. The level of Th22 cells in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) was positively correlated with the TNM stage, lymph node metastasis, and clinical tumor biomarkers. Furthermore, IL-22 not only antagonized the apoptosis inducing and cell cycle arresting effect by chemotherapy and molecular targeted drugs on NSCLC cell lines but also promoted tumor cell proliferation and tumor tissue growth. Moreover, IL-22 activated the JAK-STAT3/MAPK/AKT signaling pathway, both in vitro and in vivo. Conclusively, the present results confirm that Th22 cells/IL-22 may serve as a negative immune regulator in lung cancer.

Role of Cytokines and Chemokines in Angiogenesis in a Tumor Context

Simple Summary

Tumor growth in solid cancers requires adequate nutrient and oxygen supply, provided by blood vessels created by angiogenesis. Numerous studies have demonstrated that this mechanism plays a crucial role in cancer development and appears to be a well-defined hallmark of cancer. This process is carefully regulated, notably by cytokines with pro-angiogenic or anti-angiogenic features. In this review, we will discuss the role of cytokines in the modulation of angiogenesis. In addition, we will summarize the therapeutic approaches based on cytokine modulation and their clinical approval.

Abstract

During carcinogenesis, tumors set various mechanisms to help support their development. Angiogenesis is a crucial process for cancer development as it drives the creation of blood vessels within the tumor. These newly formed blood vessels insure the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the tumor, helping its growth. The main factors that regulate angiogenesis are the five members of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family. Angiogenesis is a hallmark of cancer and has been the target of new therapies this past few years. However, angiogenesis is a complex phenomenon with many redundancy pathways that ensure its maintenance. In this review, we will first describe the consecutive steps forming angiogenesis, as well as its classical regulators. We will then discuss how the cytokines and chemokines present in the tumor microenvironment can induce or block angiogenesis. Finally, we will focus on the therapeutic arsenal targeting angiogenesis in cancer and the challenges they have to overcome.

Biological activity of a vascular endothelial cell-hydroxyapatite orbital implant complex: An experimental study

The reduction in postoperative complications is a considerable concern after orbital reparation and reconstruction. Selecting the appropriate scaffold materials to improve the survival rates of the seeded cells is a challenge in tissue engineering. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the biological activity of a vascular endothelial cell-hydroxyapatite orbital complex, which was constructed with tissue engineering and used as an implant after enucleation of the eyeNew Zealand white rabbits were randomly divided into two groups that underwent hydroxyapatite orbital implant surgery in the right eye. The primary orbital microvascular endothelial cells were collected from the microvascular tissue and subsequently cultured. Then, hydroxyapatite ocular implants were cultured with vascular endothelial cells in the endothelial cell (EC) group, and implants were cultured without vascular endothelial cells in the blank group. Characterization of the cells was performed with immunofluorescence staining and a Transwell migration and cell tube formation assay. The levels of interleukin-8 (IL-8) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the rabbit conjunctiva were measured with an ELISA. The results showed that the levels of IL-8 were decreased in the EC group and increased in the blank group. The levels of VEGF were increased in the EC group when compared to the blank group with statistical significance. The average depth of the fibrovascular tissue was obviously thicker in the EC group compared with that found in the blank group. These findings suggest that the vascular endothelial cell-hydroxyapatite orbital implant complex may be an effective strategy with which to accelerate vascularization and reduce complications of infection with satisfactory biological activity.

CircKDM4B suppresses breast cancer progression via the miR-675/NEDD4L axis

Increasing studies have indicated that circular RNAs (circRNAs) play pivotal roles in various cancers. Here, we aimed to explore the roles of circRNAs in breast cancer. We identified a novel circRNA circKDM4B (hsa_circ_0002926) by whole-transcriptome sequencing and validated this by Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and Sanger sequencing. It was significantly decreased in breast cancer tissues compared with adjacent non-tumor tissues. Furthermore, circKDM4B, which is mainly localized in the cytoplasm, was more resistant to actinomycin D or ribonuclease R than its linear transcript KDM4B. In addition, the overexpression of circKDM4B inhibited cell migration and invasion in vitro, while knockdown of circKDM4B induced the opposite effects. In vivo, circKDM4B suppressed tumor growth and metastasis. Additionally, circKDM4B inhibited migration and tube formation of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) in vitro and angiogenesis in vivo. Mechanically, circKDM4B sponged miR-675 to upregulate the expression of NEDD4-like E3 ubiquitin protein ligase (NEDD4L), which catalyzes ubiquitination of PI3KCA, thereby inhibiting PI3K/AKT and VEGFA secretion. Collectively, these findings uncovered the tumor-suppressor role of circKDM4B in breast cancer, especially in angiogenesis and tumor metastasis, indicating that circKDM4B could be a potential therapeutic target for breast cancer progression.

Molecular Imaging of Tumor Progression and Angiogenesis by Dual Bioluminescence

Angiogenesis is a prerequisite for tumor growth and invasion, and anti-angiogenesis has become a highlight in tumor treatment research. However, so far, there is no reliable solution for how to simultaneously visualize the relationship between tumor progression and angiogenesis. Bioluminescence imaging (BLI) has been broadly utilized and is a very promising non-invasive imaging technique with the advantages of low cost, high sensitivity, and robust specificity. In this chapter, we describe a dual bioluminescence imaging BLI protocol for tumor progression and angiogenesis through implanting murine breast cancer cell line 4T1 which stably expressing Renilla luciferase (RLuc) into the transgenic mice with angiogenesis-induced firefly luciferase (FLuc) expression. This modality enables us to synchronously monitor the tumor progression and angiogenesis in the same mouse, which has broad applicability in oncology studies.

FGA Controls VEGFA Secretion to Promote Angiogenesis by Activating the VEGFR2-FAK Signalling Pathway

BACKGROUND

Our previous work revealed the high expression of fibrinogen alpha chain (FGA) in patients with endometriosis (EM) and that it could promote the migration and invasion of endometrial stromal cells. Angiogenesis is the key condition for the development of EM. This study was aimed to elucidate the role of FGA in endometrial stromal cells involved in angiogenesis in EM.

METHODS

Immunohistochemistry was used to detect the microvessel density (MVD) and VEGF expression in the eutopic endometrium samples from EM and non-EM. The conditioned medium (CM) of human primary eutopic endometrial stromal cells (EuESC) and immortalized endometrial stromal cell line hEM15A with FGA knockdown were collected and used to treat human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Then, tube formation assay, EdU assay, wound assay, transwell assay and flow cytometry assays were performed to assess the function of HUEVCs in vitro. The angiogenic capability of HUVECs was further measured using a matrigel plug assay with BALB/c nude mice in vivo. Immunofluorescence was used to detect the expression of F-actin and VE-cadherin. RT-PCR and western blotting were used to detect the expression of angiogenesis-related factors in endometrial stromal cells and downstream signalling pathways in HUVECs.

RESULTS

MVD and VEGF expression in the eutopic endometrium of EM patients were significantly higher than those in the normal endometrium of non-EM patients, and the increased MVD in EM indicates an increased risk of recurrence. Functionally, we found that CM of endometrial stromal cells with FGA knockdown could inhibit HUEVCs migration and tube formation in vitro and in vivo, while having no significant effect on HUVECs proliferation, apoptosis and cell cycle. Mechanically, the expression of VEGFA, PDGF, FGF-B, VEGF, MMP-2 and MMP-9 was reduced in hEM15A cells with FGA knockdown. CM of hEM15A cells with FGA knockdown reduced the number of microfilaments and pseudopodia, as well as the expression of VE-cadherin, and inhibited the activity of VEGFR2 and the FAK signalling pathway in HUVECs.

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrated FGA could enhance the interaction between endometrial stromal cells and HUVECs via the potential VEGA-VEGFR-FAK signalling axis and promote EM angiogenesis, revealing a promising therapeutic approach for EM.

Relationship between Th17 immune response and cancer

Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide and epidemiological projections predict growing cancer mortality rates in the next decades. Cancer has a close relationship with the immune system and, although Th17 cells are known to play roles in the immune response against microorganisms and in autoimmunity, studies have emphasized their roles in cancer pathogenesis. The Th17 immune response profile is involved in several types of cancer including urogenital, respiratory, gastrointestinal, and skin cancers. This type of immune response exerts pro and antitumor functions through several mechanisms, depending on the context of each tumor, including the protumor angiogenesis and exhaustion of T cells and the antitumor recruitment of T cells and neutrophils to the tumor microenvironment. Among other factors, the paradoxical behavior of Th17 cells in this setting has been attributed to its plasticity potential, which makes possible their conversion into other types of T cells such as Th17/Treg and Th17/Th1 cells. Interleukin (IL)-17 stands out among Th17-related cytokines since it modulates pathways and interacts with other cell profiles in the tumor microenvironment, which allow Th17 cells to prevail in tumors. Moreover, the IL-17 is able to mediate pro and antitumor processes that influence the development and progression of various cancers, being associated with variable clinical outcomes. The understanding of the relationship between the Th17 immune response and cancer as well as the singularities of carcinogenic processes in each type of tumor is crucial for the identification of new therapeutic targets.

Crosstalk Between the Tumor Microenvironment and Cancer Cells: A Promising Predictive Biomarker for Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have changed the landscape of cancer treatment and are emerging as promising curative treatments in different type of cancers. However, only a small proportion of patients have benefited from ICIs and there is an urgent need to find robust biomarkers for individualized immunotherapy and to explore the causes of immunotherapy resistance. In this article, we review the roles of immune cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME) and discuss the effects of ICIs on these cell populations. We discuss the potential of the functional interaction between the TME and cancer cells as a predictive biomarker for ICIs. Furthermore, we outline the potential personalized strategies to improve the effectiveness of ICIs with precision.

Interleukin-22: a potential therapeutic target in atherosclerosis

BACKGROUND

Atherosclerosis is recognized as a chronic immuno-inflammatory disease that is characterized by the accumulation of immune cells and lipids in the vascular wall. In this review, we focus on the latest advance regarding the regulation and signaling pathways of IL-22 and highlight its impacts on atherosclerosis.

MAIN BODY

IL-22, an important member of the IL-10 family of cytokines, is released by cells of the adaptive and innate immune system and plays a key role in the development of inflammatory diseases. The binding of IL-22 to its receptor complex can trigger a diverse array of downstream signaling pathways, in particular the JAK/STAT, to induce the expression of chemokines and proinflammatory cytokines. Recently, numerous studies suggest that IL-22 is involved in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis by regulation of VSMC proliferation and migration, angiogenesis, inflammatory response, hypertension, and cholesterol metabolism.

CONCLUSION

IL-22 promotes the development of atherosclerosis by multiple mechanisms, which may be a promising therapeutic target in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis.

Sequential activation of heterogeneous macrophage phenotypes is essential for biomaterials-induced bone regeneration

Macrophage has been gradually recognized as a central regulator in tissue regeneration, and the study of how macrophage mediates biomaterials-induced bone regeneration through immunomodulatory pathway becomes popular. However, the current understanding on the roles of different macrophage phenotypes in regulating bone tissue regeneration remains controversial. In this study, we demonstrate that sequential infiltration of heterogeneous phenotypes of macrophages triggered by bio-metal ions effectively facilitates bone healing in bone defect. Indeed, M1 macrophages promote the recruitment and early commitment of osteogenic and angiogenic progenitors, while M2 macrophages and osteoclasts support the deposition and mineralization of the bone matrix, as well as the maturation of blood vessels. Moreover, we have identified a group of bone biomaterial-related multinucleated cells that behave similarly to M2 macrophages with wound-healing features rather than participate in the bone resorption cascade similarly to osteoclasts. Our study shows how sequential activation of macrophage-osteoclast lineage contribute to a highly orchestrated immune response in the bone tissue microenvironment around biomaterials to regulate the complex biological process of bone healing. Therefore, we believe that the temporal activation pattern of heterogeneous macrophage phenotypes should be considered when the next generation of biomaterials for bone regeneration is engineered.

Screening and identification of angiogenesis-related genes as potential novel prognostic biomarkers of hepatocellular carcinoma through bioinformatics analysis

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a malignant tumor with high morbidity and mortality, which makes the prognostic prediction challenging. Angiogenesis appears to be of critical importance in the progression and metastasis of HCC. Some of the angiogenesis-related genes promote this process, while other anti-angiogenesis genes suppress tumor growth and metastasis. Therefore, the comprehensive prognostic value of multiple angiogenesis-related genes in HCC needs to be further clarified. In this study, the mRNA expression profile of HCC patients and the corresponding clinical data were acquired from multiple public databases. Univariate Cox regression analysis was utilized to screen out differentially expressed angiogenesis-related genes with prognostic value. A multigene signature was established with the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator Cox regression in the Cancer Genome Atlas cohort, and validated through an independent cohort. The results suggested that a total of 16 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were associated with overall survival (OS) and a 7-gene signature was constructed. The risk score of each patient was calculated using this signature, the median value of which was used to divide these patients into a high-risk group and a low-risk group. Compared with the low-risk group, the patients in the high-risk group had a poor prognosis. The risk score was an independent predictor for OS through multivariate Cox regression analysis. Then, unsupervised learning was used to verify the validity of this 7-gene signature. A nomogram by further integrating clinical information and the prognostic signature was utilized to predict prognostic risk and individual OS. Functional enrichment analyses demonstrated that these DEGs were enriched in the pathways of cell proliferation and mitosis, and the immune cell infiltration was significantly different between the two risk groups. In summary, a novel angiogenesis-related genes signature could be used to predict the prognosis of HCC and for targeted therapy.

The Assessment of IL-21 and IL-22 at the mRNA Level in Tumor Tissue and Protein Concentration in Serum and Peritoneal Fluid in Patients with Ovarian Cancer

The aim of the analysis was for the first time to assess the expression of genes encoding IL-21 and IL-22 at the mRNA level in ovarian tumor specimens and the concentration of these parameters in serum and peritoneal fluid in patients with ovarian serous cancer. The levels of IL-21 and IL-22 transcripts were evaluated with the use of the real-time RT-qPCR. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to determine the concentration of proteins. Quantitative analysis of IL-21 gene mRNA in the tumor tissue showed the highest activity in the G1 degree of histopathological differentiation and was higher in G1 compared to the control group. The concentration of IL-21 and IL-22 in the serum and in the peritoneal fluid of women with ovarian cancer varied depending on the degree of histopathological differentiation of the cancer and showed statistical variability compared to controls. The conducted studies have shown that the local and systemic changes in the immune system involving IL-21 and IL-22 indicate the participation of these parameters in the pathogenesis of ovarian cancer, and modulation in the IL-21/IL-22 system may prove useful in the development of new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies used in patients, which require further research.

Role of Th22 Cells in the Pathogenesis of Autoimmune Diseases

Upon antigenic stimulation, naïve CD4+T cells differentiate into different subsets and secrete various cytokines to exert biological effects. Th22 cells, a newly identified CD4+T cell subset,are distinct from the Th1, Th2 and Th17 subsets. Th22 cells secrete certain cytokines such as IL-22, IL-13 and TNF-α, but not others, such as IL-17, IL-4, or interferon-γ (IFN-γ), and they express chemokine receptors CCR4, CCR6 and CCR10. Th22 cells were initially found to play a role in skin inflammatory diseases, but recent studies have demonstrated their involvement in the development of various autoimmune diseases. Here, we review research advances in the origin, characteristics and effector mechanisms of Th22 cells, with an emphasis on the role of Th22 cells and their main effector cytokine IL-22 in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. The findings presented here may facilitate the development of new therapeutic strategies for targeting these diseases.

Role of long noncoding RNA taurine-upregulated gene 1 in cancers

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a group of non-protein coding RNAs with a length of more than 200 bp. The lncRNA taurine up-regulated gene 1 (TUG1) is abnormally expressed in many human malignant cancers, where it acts as a competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA), regulating gene expression by specifically sponging its corresponding microRNAs. In the present review, we summarised the current understanding of the role of lncRNA TUG1 in cancer cell proliferation, metastasis, angiogenesis, chemotherapeutic drug resistance, radiosensitivity, cell regulation, and cell glycolysis, as well as highlighting its potential application as a clinical biomarker or therapeutic target for malignant cancer. This review provides the basis for new research directions for lncRNA TUG1 in cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.