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Xu Y, Gao Z, Sun X, Li J, Ozaki T, Shi D, Yu M, Zhu Y. The role of circular RNA during the urological cancer metastasis: exploring regulatory mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2024; 43:1055-1074. [PMID: 38558156 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-024-10182-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Metastasis is a major contributor to treatment failure and death in urological cancers, representing an important biomedical challenge at present. Metastases form as a result of cancer cells leaving the primary site, entering the vasculature and lymphatic vessels, and colonizing clones elsewhere in the body. However, the specific regulatory mechanisms of action underlying the metastatic process of urological cancers remain incompletely elucidated. With the deepening of research, circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been found to not only play a significant role in tumor progression and prognosis but also show aberrant expression in various tumor metastases, consequently impacting tumor metastasis through multiple pathways. Therefore, circRNAs are emerging as potential tumor markers and treatment targets. This review summarizes the research progress on elucidating how circRNAs regulate the urological cancer invasion-metastasis cascade response and related processes, as well as their role in immune microenvironment remodeling and circRNA vaccines. This body of work highlights circRNA regulation as an emerging therapeutic target for urological cancers, which should motivate further specific research in this regard.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Xu
- Department of Urology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, China
| | - Zhipeng Gao
- Department of Urology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, China
| | - Xiaoyu Sun
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, China
| | - Jun Li
- Department of Urology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, China
| | - Toshinori Ozaki
- Laboratory of DNA Damage Signaling, Chiba Cancer Center Research Institute, Chiba, Japan
| | - Du Shi
- Department of Urology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, China.
| | - Meng Yu
- Department of Laboratory Animal Science, China Medical University, No. 77 Puhe Road, Shenyang, 110122, Liaoning, China.
| | - Yuyan Zhu
- Department of Urology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, China.
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2
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Liang L, Song X, Zhao H, Lim CT. Insights into the mechanobiology of cancer metastasis via microfluidic technologies. APL Bioeng 2024; 8:021506. [PMID: 38841688 PMCID: PMC11151435 DOI: 10.1063/5.0195389] [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] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
During cancer metastasis, cancer cells will encounter various microenvironments with diverse physical characteristics. Changes in these physical characteristics such as tension, stiffness, viscosity, compression, and fluid shear can generate biomechanical cues that affect cancer cells, dynamically influencing numerous pathophysiological mechanisms. For example, a dense extracellular matrix drives cancer cells to reorganize their cytoskeleton structures, facilitating confined migration, while this dense and restricted space also acts as a physical barrier that potentially results in nuclear rupture. Identifying these pathophysiological processes and understanding their underlying mechanobiological mechanisms can aid in the development of more effective therapeutics targeted to cancer metastasis. In this review, we outline the advances of engineering microfluidic devices in vitro and their role in replicating tumor microenvironment to mimic in vivo settings. We highlight the potential cellular mechanisms that mediate their ability to adapt to different microenvironments. Meanwhile, we also discuss some important mechanical cues that still remain challenging to replicate in current microfluidic devices in future direction. While much remains to be explored about cancer mechanobiology, we believe the developments of microfluidic devices will reveal how these physical cues impact the behaviors of cancer cells. It will be crucial in the understanding of cancer metastasis, and potentially contributing to better drug development and cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lanfeng Liang
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Xiao Song
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore
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3
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El-Tanani M, Rabbani SA, Babiker R, Rangraze I, Kapre S, Palakurthi SS, Alnuqaydan AM, Aljabali AA, Rizzo M, El-Tanani Y, Tambuwala MM. Unraveling the tumor microenvironment: Insights into cancer metastasis and therapeutic strategies. Cancer Lett 2024; 591:216894. [PMID: 38626856 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
This comprehensive review delves into the pivotal role of the tumor microenvironment (TME) in cancer metastasis and therapeutic response, offering fresh insights into the intricate interplay between cancer cells and their surrounding milieu. The TME, a dynamic ecosystem comprising diverse cellular and acellular elements, not only fosters tumor progression but also profoundly affects the efficacy of conventional and emerging cancer therapies. Through nuanced exploration, this review illuminates the multifaceted nature of the TME, elucidating its capacity to engender drug resistance via mechanisms such as hypoxia, immune evasion, and the establishment of physical barriers to drug delivery. Moreover, it investigates innovative therapeutic approaches aimed at targeting the TME, including stromal reprogramming, immune microenvironment modulation, extracellular matrix (ECM)-targeting agents, and personalized medicine strategies, highlighting their potential to augment treatment outcomes. Furthermore, this review critically evaluates the challenges posed by the complexity and heterogeneity of the TME, which contribute to variable therapeutic responses and potentially unintended consequences. This underscores the need to identify robust biomarkers and advance predictive models to anticipate treatment outcomes, as well as advocate for combination therapies that address multiple facets of the TME. Finally, the review emphasizes the necessity of an interdisciplinary approach and the integration of cutting-edge technologies to unravel the intricacies of the TME, thereby facilitating the development of more effective, adaptable, and personalized cancer treatments. By providing critical insights into the current state of TME research and its implications for the future of oncology, this review highlights the dynamic and evolving landscape of this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed El-Tanani
- College of Pharmacy, Ras Al Khaimah Medical and Health Sciences University, Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates.
| | - Syed Arman Rabbani
- College of Pharmacy, Ras Al Khaimah Medical and Health Sciences University, Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rasha Babiker
- Physiology Department, RAK College of Medical Sciences, RAK Medical and Health Sciences University, Ras-al-Khaimah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Imran Rangraze
- Internal Medicine Department, RAK College of Medical Sciences, RAK Medical and Health Sciences University, Ras-al-Khaimah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Sumedha Kapre
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Irma Lerma Rangel School of Pharmacy, Texas A&M University, Kingsville, TX, 78363, USA
| | - Sushesh Srivastsa Palakurthi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Irma Lerma Rangel School of Pharmacy, Texas A&M University, Kingsville, TX, 78363, USA
| | - Abdullah M Alnuqaydan
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Alaa A Aljabali
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Yarmouk University, Irbid, 21163, Jordan
| | - Manfredi Rizzo
- (D)epartment of Health Promotion, Mother and Childcare, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, School of Medicine, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Yahia El-Tanani
- Medical School, St George's University of London, Cranmer Terrace, Tooting, London, SW17 0RE, UK.
| | - Murtaza M Tambuwala
- College of Pharmacy, Ras Al Khaimah Medical and Health Sciences University, Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates; Lincoln Medical School, University of Lincoln, Brayford Pool Campus, Lincoln, LN6 7TS, UK.
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4
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Cheng X, Henick BS, Cheng K. Anticancer Therapy Targeting Cancer-Derived Extracellular Vesicles. ACS NANO 2024; 18:6748-6765. [PMID: 38393984 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c06462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are natural lipid nanoparticles secreted by most types of cells. In malignant cancer, EVs derived from cancer cells contribute to its progression and metastasis by facilitating tumor growth and invasion, interfering with anticancer immunity, and establishing premetastasis niches in distant organs. In recent years, multiple strategies targeting cancer-derived EVs have been proposed to improve cancer patient outcomes, including inhibiting EV generation, disrupting EVs during trafficking, and blocking EV uptake by recipient cells. Developments in EV engineering also show promising results in harnessing cancer-derived EVs as anticancer agents. Here, we summarize the current understanding of the origin and functions of cancer-derived EVs and review the recent progress in anticancer therapy targeting these EVs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Cheng
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, United States
- Joint Department of Biomedical EngineeringNorth Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27606, United States
| | - Brian S Henick
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York 10032, United States
| | - Ke Cheng
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, New York 10027, United States
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5
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Hou S, Zhao Y, Chen J, Lin Y, Qi X. Tumor-associated macrophages in colorectal cancer metastasis: molecular insights and translational perspectives. J Transl Med 2024; 22:62. [PMID: 38229160 PMCID: PMC10792812 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-04856-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Metastasis is the leading cause of high mortality in colorectal cancer (CRC), which is not only driven by changes occurring within the tumor cells, but is also influenced by the dynamic interaction between cancer cells and components in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Currently, the exploration of TME remodeling and its impact on CRC metastasis has attracted increasing attention owing to its potential to uncover novel therapeutic avenues. Noteworthy, emerging studies suggested that tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) within the TME played important roles in CRC metastasis by secreting a variety of cytokines, chemokines, growth factors and proteases. Moreover, TAMs are often associated with poor prognosis and drug resistance, making them promising targets for CRC therapy. Given the prognostic and clinical value of TAMs, this review provides an updated overview on the origin, polarization and function of TAMs, and discusses the mechanisms by which TAMs promote the metastatic cascade of CRC. Potential TAM-targeting techniques for personalized theranostics of metastatic CRC are emphasized. Finally, future perspectives and challenges for translational applications of TAMs in CRC development and metastasis are proposed to help develop novel TAM-based strategies for CRC precision medicine and holistic healthcare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyu Hou
- School of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, 215011, China
| | - Yuanchun Zhao
- School of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, 215011, China
| | - Jiajia Chen
- School of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, 215011, China
| | - Yuxin Lin
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215000, China.
- Center for Systems Biology, Department of Bioinformatics, School of Biology and Basic Medical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China.
| | - Xin Qi
- School of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, 215011, China.
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Park W, Lee JS, Gao G, Kim BS, Cho DW. 3D bioprinted multilayered cerebrovascular conduits to study cancer extravasation mechanism related with vascular geometry. Nat Commun 2023; 14:7696. [PMID: 38001146 PMCID: PMC10673893 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-43586-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Cerebral vessels are composed of highly complex structures that facilitate blood perfusion necessary for meeting the high energy demands of the brain. Their geometrical complexities alter the biophysical behavior of circulating tumor cells in the brain, thereby influencing brain metastasis. However, recapitulation of the native cerebrovascular microenvironment that shows continuities between vascular geometry and metastatic cancer development has not been accomplished. Here, we apply an in-bath 3D triaxial bioprinting technique and a brain-specific hybrid bioink containing an ionically crosslinkable hydrogel to generate a mature three-layered cerebrovascular conduit with varying curvatures to investigate the physical and molecular mechanisms of cancer extravasation in vitro. We show that more tumor cells adhere at larger vascular curvature regions, suggesting that prolongation of tumor residence time under low velocity and wall shear stress accelerates the molecular signatures of metastatic potential, including endothelial barrier disruption, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, inflammatory response, and tumorigenesis. These findings provide insights into the underlying mechanisms driving brain metastases and facilitate future advances in pharmaceutical and medical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wonbin Park
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Seong Lee
- School of Biomedical Convergence Engineering, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Republic of Korea
| | - Ge Gao
- School of Medical Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Byoung Soo Kim
- School of Biomedical Convergence Engineering, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Republic of Korea.
- Medical Research Institute, Pusan National University, Yangsan, Republic of Korea.
| | - Dong-Woo Cho
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang, Republic of Korea.
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7
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Sun B, Ji WD, Wang WC, Chen L, Ma JY, Tang EJ, Lin MB, Zhang XF. Circulating tumor cells participate in the formation of microvascular invasion and impact on clinical outcomes in hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Genet 2023; 14:1265866. [PMID: 38028589 PMCID: PMC10652898 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2023.1265866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common malignant tumor worldwide. Although the treatment strategies have been improved in recent years, the long-term prognosis of HCC is far from satisfactory mainly due to high postoperative recurrence and metastasis rate. Vascular tumor thrombus, including microvascular invasion (MVI) and portal vein tumor thrombus (PVTT), affects the outcome of hepatectomy and liver transplantation. If vascular invasion could be found preoperatively, especially the risk of MVI, more reasonable surgical selection will be chosen to reduce the risk of postoperative recurrence and metastasis. However, there is a lack of reliable prediction methods, and the formation mechanism of MVI/PVTT is still unclear. At present, there is no study to explore the possibility of tumor thrombus formation from a single circulating tumor cell (CTC) of HCC, nor any related study to describe the possible leading role and molecular mechanism of HCC CTCs as an important component of MVI/PVTT. In this study, we review the current understanding of MVI and possible mechanisms, discuss the function of CTCs in the formation of MVI and interaction with immune cells in the circulation. In conclusion, we discuss implications for potential therapeutic targets and the prospect of clinical treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Sun
- Center for Clinical Research and Translational Medicine, Yangpu Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei-Dan Ji
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgical Hospital and National Center for Liver Cancer, Navy Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wen-Chao Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Yangpu Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lei Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Yangpu Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun-Yong Ma
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Navy Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Er-Jiang Tang
- Center for Clinical Research and Translational Medicine, Yangpu Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Mou-Bin Lin
- Department of General Surgery, Yangpu Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiao-Feng Zhang
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, Eastern Hepatobiliary Surgery Hospital, Navy Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
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8
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Małek A, Wojnicki M, Borkowska A, Wójcik M, Ziółek G, Lechowski R, Zabielska-Koczywąs K. Gold Nanoparticles Inhibit Extravasation of Canine Osteosarcoma Cells in the Ex Ovo Chicken Embryo Chorioallantoic Membrane Model. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:9858. [PMID: 37373007 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24129858] [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: 04/29/2023] [Revised: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Canine osteosarcoma (OS) is an aggressive bone tumor with high metastatic potential and poor prognosis, mainly due to metastatic disease. Nanomedicine-based agents can be used to improve both primary and metastatic tumor treatment. Recently, gold nanoparticles were shown to inhibit different stages of the metastatic cascade in various human cancers. Here, we assessed the potential inhibitory effect of the glutathione-stabilized gold nanoparticles (Au-GSH NPs) on canine OS cells extravasation, utilizing the ex ovo chick embryo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) model. The calculation of cells extravasation rates was performed using wide-field fluorescent microscopy. Transmission electron microscopy and Microwave Plasma Atomic Emission Spectroscopy revealed Au-GSH NPs absorption by OS cells. We demonstrated that Au-GSH NPs are non-toxic and significantly inhibit canine OS cells extravasation rates, regardless of their aggressiveness phenotype. The results indicate that Au-GSH NPs can act as a possible anti metastatic agent for OS treatment. Furthermore, the implemented CAM model may be used as a valuable preclinical platform in veterinary medicine, such as testing anti-metastatic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Małek
- Department of Small Animal Diseases and Clinic, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Nowoursynowska 159c, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marek Wojnicki
- Faculty of Non-Ferrous Metals, AGH University of Science and Technology, Al. A. Mickiewicza 30, 30-059 Kraków, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Borkowska
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 1, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland
- Faculty of Pharmacy, The Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Michał Wójcik
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 1, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Gabriela Ziółek
- Department of Small Animal Diseases and Clinic, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Nowoursynowska 159c, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Roman Lechowski
- Department of Small Animal Diseases and Clinic, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Nowoursynowska 159c, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Zabielska-Koczywąs
- Department of Small Animal Diseases and Clinic, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Nowoursynowska 159c, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland
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9
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Javanmardi Y, Agrawal A, Malandrino A, Lasli S, Chen M, Shahreza S, Serwinski B, Cammoun L, Li R, Jorfi M, Djordjevic B, Szita N, Spill F, Bertazzo S, Sheridan GK, Shenoy V, Calvo F, Kamm R, Moeendarbary E. Endothelium and Subendothelial Matrix Mechanics Modulate Cancer Cell Transendothelial Migration. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2206554. [PMID: 37051804 PMCID: PMC10238207 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202206554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 03/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Cancer cell extravasation, a key step in the metastatic cascade, involves cancer cell arrest on the endothelium, transendothelial migration (TEM), followed by the invasion into the subendothelial extracellular matrix (ECM) of distant tissues. While cancer research has mostly focused on the biomechanical interactions between tumor cells (TCs) and ECM, particularly at the primary tumor site, very little is known about the mechanical properties of endothelial cells and the subendothelial ECM and how they contribute to the extravasation process. Here, an integrated experimental and theoretical framework is developed to investigate the mechanical crosstalk between TCs, endothelium and subendothelial ECM during in vitro cancer cell extravasation. It is found that cancer cell actin-rich protrusions generate complex push-pull forces to initiate and drive TEM, while transmigration success also relies on the forces generated by the endothelium. Consequently, mechanical properties of the subendothelial ECM and endothelial actomyosin contractility that mediate the endothelial forces also impact the endothelium's resistance to cancer cell transmigration. These results indicate that mechanical features of distant tissues, including force interactions between the endothelium and the subendothelial ECM, are key determinants of metastatic organotropism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yousef Javanmardi
- Department of Mechanical EngineeringUniversity College LondonTorrington PlaceLondonWC1E 7JEUK
| | - Ayushi Agrawal
- Department of Mechanical EngineeringUniversity College LondonTorrington PlaceLondonWC1E 7JEUK
| | - Andrea Malandrino
- Department of Biological EngineeringMassachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeMA02139USA
- Biomaterials, Biomechanics and Tissue Engineering GroupDepartment of Materials Science and Engineering and Research Center for Biomedical EngineeringUniversitat Politécnica de Catalunya (UPC)08019BarcelonaSpain
| | - Soufian Lasli
- Department of Mechanical EngineeringUniversity College LondonTorrington PlaceLondonWC1E 7JEUK
| | - Michelle Chen
- Department of Biological EngineeringMassachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeMA02139USA
| | - Somayeh Shahreza
- Department of Mechanical EngineeringUniversity College LondonTorrington PlaceLondonWC1E 7JEUK
| | - Bianca Serwinski
- Department of Mechanical EngineeringUniversity College LondonTorrington PlaceLondonWC1E 7JEUK
- 199 Biotechnologies LtdGloucester RoadLondonW2 6LDUK
| | - Leila Cammoun
- Department of Biological EngineeringMassachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeMA02139USA
| | - Ran Li
- Department of Biological EngineeringMassachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeMA02139USA
| | - Mehdi Jorfi
- Department of Biological EngineeringMassachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeMA02139USA
| | - Boris Djordjevic
- Department of Mechanical EngineeringUniversity College LondonTorrington PlaceLondonWC1E 7JEUK
- 199 Biotechnologies LtdGloucester RoadLondonW2 6LDUK
| | - Nicolas Szita
- Department of Biochemical EngineeringUniversity College LondonLondonWC1E 6BTUK
| | - Fabian Spill
- School of MathematicsUniversity of BirminghamEdgbastonBirminghamB152TSUK
| | - Sergio Bertazzo
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical EngineeringUniversity College LondonLondonWC1E 6BTUK
| | - Graham K Sheridan
- School of Life SciencesQueen's Medical CentreUniversity of NottinghamNottinghamNG7 2UHUK
| | - Vivek Shenoy
- Department of Materials Science and EngineeringUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPA19104USA
| | - Fernando Calvo
- Instituto de Biomedicina y Biotecnología de Cantabria (Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Universidad de Cantabria)Santander39011Spain
| | - Roger Kamm
- Department of Biological EngineeringMassachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeMA02139USA
| | - Emad Moeendarbary
- Department of Mechanical EngineeringUniversity College LondonTorrington PlaceLondonWC1E 7JEUK
- Department of Biological EngineeringMassachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridgeMA02139USA
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10
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Giusti I, Poppa G, Di Fazio G, D'Ascenzo S, Dolo V. Metastatic Dissemination: Role of Tumor-Derived Extracellular Vesicles and Their Use as Clinical Biomarkers. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24119590. [PMID: 37298540 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24119590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a major cause of mortality in humans; often, rather than the primary tumor, it is the presence of metastases that are the cause of death. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are small structures released by both normal and cancer cells; regarding the latter, they have been demonstrated to modulate almost all cancer-related processes, such as invasion, angiogenesis induction, drug resistance, and immune evasion. In the last years, it has become clear how EVs are widely involved in metastatic dissemination as well as in pre-metastatic niche (PMN) formation. Indeed, in order to achieve a successful metastatic process, i.e., penetration by cancer cells into distant tissues, the shaping of a favorable environment into those distant tissue, i.e., PMN formation, is mandatory. This process consists of an alteration that takes place in a distant organ and paves the way for the engraftment and growth of circulating tumor cells derived from the tumor primary site. This review focuses on the role of EVs in pre-metastatic niche formation and metastatic dissemination, also reporting the last studies suggesting the EVs role as biomarkers of metastatic diseases, possibly in a liquid biopsy approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Giusti
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio-Coppito 2, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Poppa
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio-Coppito 2, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Giulia Di Fazio
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio-Coppito 2, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Sandra D'Ascenzo
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio-Coppito 2, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Vincenza Dolo
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio-Coppito 2, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
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11
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Bozzuto G, Colone M, Toccacieli L, Molinari A, Calcabrini A, Stringaro A. Interaction of Drug-Sensitive and -Resistant Human Melanoma Cells with HUVEC Cells: A Label-Free Cell-Based Impedance Study. Biomedicines 2023; 11:1544. [PMID: 37371639 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11061544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer cell extravasation is a crucial step in cancer metastasis. However, many of the mechanisms involved in this process are only now being elucidated. Thus, in the present study we analysed the trans-endothelial invasion of melanoma cells by a high throughput label-free cell impedance assay applied to transwell chamber invasion assay. This technique monitors and quantifies in real-time the invasion of endothelial cells by malignant tumour cells, for a long time, avoiding artefacts due to preparation of the end point measurements. Results obtained by impedance analysis were compared with endpoint measurements. In this study, we used human melanoma M14 wild type (WT) cells and their drug resistant counterparts, M14 multidrug resistant (ADR) melanoma cells, selected by prolonged exposure to doxorubicin (DOX). Tumour cells were co-cultured with monolayers of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC). Results herein reported demonstrated that: (i) the trans-endothelial migration of resistant melanoma cells was faster than sensitive ones; (ii) the endothelial cells appeared to be strongly affected by the transmigration of melanoma cells which showed the ability to degrade their cytoplasm; (iii) resistant cells preferentially adopted the transcellular invasion vs. the paracellular one; (iv) the endothelial damage mediated by tumour metalloproteinases seemed to be reversible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppina Bozzuto
- National Center for Drug Research and Evaluation, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Marisa Colone
- National Center for Drug Research and Evaluation, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Toccacieli
- National Center for Drug Research and Evaluation, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Agnese Molinari
- National Center for Drug Research and Evaluation, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Annarica Calcabrini
- National Center for Drug Research and Evaluation, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Annarita Stringaro
- National Center for Drug Research and Evaluation, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy
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12
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Hamilton G, Rath B, Stickler S. Significance of circulating tumor cells in lung cancer: a narrative review. Transl Lung Cancer Res 2023; 12:877-894. [PMID: 37197632 PMCID: PMC10183408 DOI: 10.21037/tlcr-22-712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objective In cancer patients, circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are employed as "Liquid Biopsy" for tumor detection, prognosis and assessment of the response to therapy. CTCs are responsible for tumor dissemination but the mechanisms involved in intravasation, survival in the circulation and extravasation at secondary sites to establish metastases are not fully characterized. In lung cancer patients, CTCs are present in very high numbers in small cell lung cancer (SCLC) that is found disseminated in most patients upon first presentation and has a dismal prognosis. This review aims at the discussion of recent work on metastatic SCLC and novel insights into the process of dissemination derived from the access to a panel of unique SCLC CTC lines. Methods PubMed and Euro PMC were searched from January 1st, 2015 to September 23th, 2022 using the following key words: "SCLC", "NSCLC", "CTC" and "Angiogenesis" and supplemented by data from our own work. Key Content and Findings Experimental and clinical data indicate that the intravasation of single, apoptotic or clustered CTCs occur via leaky neoangiogenetic vessels in the tumor core and not via crossing of the adjacent tumor stroma after EMT. Furthermore, in lung cancer only EpCAM-positive CTCs have been found to have prognostic impact. All our established SCLC CTC lines form spontaneously EpCAM-positive large and chemoresistant spheroids (tumorospheres) that may become trapped in microvessels in vivo and are suggested to extravasate by physical force. The rate-limiting step of the shedding of CTCs is most likely the presence of irregular and leaky tumor vessels or in case of SCLC, also via vessels formed by vasculogenic mimicry. Therefore, lower microvessel densities (MVD) in NSCLC can explain the relative rarity of CTCs in NSCLC versus SCLC. Conclusions The detection of CTCs lacks standardized techniques, is difficult in non-metastatic patients and important cell biological mechanisms of dissemination need still to be resolved, especially in respect to the actual metastasis-inducing cells. Expression of VEGF and the MVD are key prognostic indicators for tumors and ultimately, enumeration of CTCs seems to reflect neoangiogenetic vascular supply of tumors and prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerhard Hamilton
- Institute of Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Barbara Rath
- Institute of Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Sandra Stickler
- Institute of Pharmacology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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13
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Metastasis prevention: How to catch metastatic seeds. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2023; 1878:188867. [PMID: 36842768 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2023.188867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023]
Abstract
Despite considerable advances in the evolution of anticancer therapies, metastasis still remains the main cause of cancer mortality. Therefore, current strategies for cancer cure should be redirected towards prevention of metastasis. Targeting metastatic pathways represents a promising therapeutic opportunity aimed at obstructing tumor cell dissemination and metastatic colonization. In this review, we focus on preclinical studies and clinical trials over the last five years that showed high efficacy in suppressing metastasis through targeting lymph node dissemination, tumor cell extravasation, reactive oxygen species, pre-metastatic niche, exosome machinery, and dormancy.
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14
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Meng Y, Cao J, Li Y, Duan S, Zhou Z, Li J, Ousmane D, Ou C, Wang J. Emerging role of ferroptosis-related circular RNA in tumor metastasis. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1168458. [PMID: 37168995 PMCID: PMC10164976 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1168458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor metastasis is an important factor that contributes to the poor prognosis of patients with tumors. Therefore, to solve this problem, research on the mechanism of metastasis is essential. Ferroptosis, a new mode of cell death, is characterized by membrane damage due to lipid peroxidation caused by iron overload. Many studies have shown that excessive ferroptosis can affect tumor metastasis and thus inhibit tumor progression. Recently, circular RNA (circRNA), a type of non-coding RNA, has been shown to be associated with the progression of ferroptosis, thus influencing tumor development. However, the specific mechanisms by which circRNAs affect the progression of ferroptosis and their roles in tumor metastasis are not known. In this review, we systematically discuss the role of circRNAs in regulating tumor ferroptosis and their mechanism of action through sponging miRNAS in various tumors, thereby impacting metastasis. This review helps elucidate the relationship and role of ferroptosis-related circRNAs in tumor metastasis and may provide future researchers with new ideas and directions for targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifei Meng
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Department of Pathology, Ultrapathology (Biomedical Electron Microscopy) Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha City, China
- Key Laboratory of Hunan Province in Neurodegenerative Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jingdong Cao
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Department of Pathology, Ultrapathology (Biomedical Electron Microscopy) Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha City, China
- Key Laboratory of Hunan Province in Neurodegenerative Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yidan Li
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Department of Pathology, Ultrapathology (Biomedical Electron Microscopy) Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha City, China
- Key Laboratory of Hunan Province in Neurodegenerative Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Saili Duan
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Department of Pathology, Ultrapathology (Biomedical Electron Microscopy) Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha City, China
- Key Laboratory of Hunan Province in Neurodegenerative Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zongjiang Zhou
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jinghe Li
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Diabate Ousmane
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Chunlin Ou
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- *Correspondence: Junpu Wang, ; Chunlin Ou,
| | - Junpu Wang
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Department of Pathology, Ultrapathology (Biomedical Electron Microscopy) Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha City, China
- Key Laboratory of Hunan Province in Neurodegenerative Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- *Correspondence: Junpu Wang, ; Chunlin Ou,
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15
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Saito D, Tadokoro R, Nagasaka A, Yoshino D, Teramoto T, Mizumoto K, Funamoto K, Kidokoro H, Miyata T, Tamura K, Takahashi Y. Stiffness of primordial germ cells is required for their extravasation in avian embryos. iScience 2022; 25:105629. [PMID: 36465120 PMCID: PMC9713369 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.105629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Unlike mammals, primordial germ cells (PGCs) in avian early embryos exploit blood circulation to translocate to the somatic gonadal primordium, but how circulating PGCs undergo extravasation remains elusive. We demonstrate with single-cell level live-imaging analyses that the PGCs are arrested at a specific site in the capillary plexus, which is predominantly governed by occlusion at a narrow path in the vasculature. The occlusion is enabled by a heightened stiffness of the PGCs mediated by actin polymerization. Following the occlusion, PGCs reset their stiffness to soften in order to squeeze through the endothelial lining as they transmigrate. Our discovery also provides a model for the understanding of metastasizing cancer extravasation occurring mainly by occlusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daisuke Saito
- Frontier Research Institute for Interdisciplinary Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi 980-8578, Japan
- Department of Ecological Developmental Adaptability Life Sciences, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi 980-8578, Japan
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
| | - Ryosuke Tadokoro
- Department of Zoology, Graduate School of Science, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Kyoto 606-8502, Japan
- Department of Bioscience, Okayama University of Science, Okayama, Okayama 700-0005, Japan
| | - Arata Nagasaka
- Division of Histology, Meikai University School of Dentistry, Sakado, Saitama 350-0283, Japan
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Aichi 466-8550, Japan
| | - Daisuke Yoshino
- Frontier Research Institute for Interdisciplinary Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi 980-8578, Japan
- Institute of Engineering, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Koganei, Tokyo 184-8588, Japan
| | - Takayuki Teramoto
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan
| | - Kanta Mizumoto
- Department of Zoology, Graduate School of Science, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Kyoto 606-8502, Japan
| | - Kenichi Funamoto
- Institute of Fluid Science, Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi 980-8577, Japan
| | - Hinako Kidokoro
- Department of Ecological Developmental Adaptability Life Sciences, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi 980-8578, Japan
- Organization for Research Initiatives and Development, Doshisha University, Kyotanabe, Kyoto 610-0394, Japan
| | - Takaki Miyata
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Aichi 466-8550, Japan
| | - Koji Tamura
- Department of Ecological Developmental Adaptability Life Sciences, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi 980-8578, Japan
| | - Yoshiko Takahashi
- Department of Zoology, Graduate School of Science, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Kyoto 606-8502, Japan
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16
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SOS1 regulates HCC cell epithelial-mesenchymal transition via the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2022; 637:161-169. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2022.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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17
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Mayo LN, Kutys ML. Conversation before crossing: dissecting metastatic tumor-vascular interactions in microphysiological systems. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2022; 323:C1333-C1344. [PMID: 36121131 PMCID: PMC9602802 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00173.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Tumor metastasis via the circulation requires crossing the vascular barrier twice: first, during intravasation when tumor cells disseminate from the primary site through proximal vasculature, and second, during extravasation, when tumor cells exit the circulation to form distant metastatic seeds. During these key metastatic events, chemomechanical signaling between tumor cells and endothelial cells elicits reciprocal changes in cell morphology and behavior that are necessary to breach the vessel wall. Existing experimental systems have provided a limited understanding of the diverse mechanisms underlying tumor-endothelial interactions during intravasation and extravasation. Recent advances in microphysiological systems have revolutionized the ability to generate miniaturized human tissues with tailored three-dimensional architectures, physiological cell interfaces, and precise chemical and physical microenvironments. By doing so, microphysiological systems enable experimental access to complex morphogenic processes associated with human tumor progression with unprecedented resolution and biological control. Here, we discuss recent examples in which microphysiological systems have been leveraged to reveal new mechanistic insight into cellular and molecular control systems operating at the tumor-endothelial interface during intravasation and extravasation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lakyn N Mayo
- Department of Cell and Tissue Biology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
- UCSF-UC Berkeley Joint Graduate Program in Bioengineering, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Matthew L Kutys
- Department of Cell and Tissue Biology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
- UCSF-UC Berkeley Joint Graduate Program in Bioengineering, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
- Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
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18
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In Vitro Human Cancer Models for Biomedical Applications. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14092284. [PMID: 35565413 PMCID: PMC9099454 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14092284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 04/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide. While numerous studies have been conducted on cancer treatment, clinical treatment options for cancers are still limited. To date, animal cancer models for cancer therapeutic studies have faced multiple challenges, including inaccuracy in the representation of human cancers, high cost and ethical concerns. Therefore, lab-grown human cancer models are being developed quickly to fulfill the increasing demand for more relevant models in order to improve knowledge of human cancers and to find novel treatments. This review summarizes the development of lab-grown human cancer models for biomedical applications, including cancer therapeutic development, assessment of human tumor biology and discovery of key cancer markers. Abstract Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, and its incidence is steadily increasing. Although years of research have been conducted on cancer treatment, clinical treatment options for cancers are still limited. Animal cancer models have been widely used for studies of cancer therapeutics, but these models have been associated with many concerns, including inaccuracy in the representation of human cancers, high cost and ethical issues. Therefore, in vitro human cancer models are being developed quickly to fulfill the increasing demand for more relevant models in order to get a better knowledge of human cancers and to find novel treatments. This review summarizes the development of in vitro human cancer models for biomedical applications. We first review the latest development in the field by detailing various types of in vitro human cancer models, including transwell-based models, tumor spheroids, microfluidic tumor-microvascular systems and scaffold-based models. The advantages and limitations of each model, as well as their biomedical applications, are summarized, including therapeutic development, assessment of tumor cell migration, metastasis and invasion and discovery of key cancer markers. Finally, the existing challenges and future perspectives are briefly discussed.
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19
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Matias M, Pinho JO, Penetra MJ, Campos G, Reis CP, Gaspar MM. The Challenging Melanoma Landscape: From Early Drug Discovery to Clinical Approval. Cells 2021; 10:3088. [PMID: 34831311 PMCID: PMC8621991 DOI: 10.3390/cells10113088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is recognized as the most dangerous type of skin cancer, with high mortality and resistance to currently used treatments. To overcome the limitations of the available therapeutic options, the discovery and development of new, more effective, and safer therapies is required. In this review, the different research steps involved in the process of antimelanoma drug evaluation and selection are explored, including information regarding in silico, in vitro, and in vivo experiments, as well as clinical trial phases. Details are given about the most used cell lines and assays to perform both two- and three-dimensional in vitro screening of drug candidates towards melanoma. For in vivo studies, murine models are, undoubtedly, the most widely used for assessing the therapeutic potential of new compounds and to study the underlying mechanisms of action. Here, the main melanoma murine models are described as well as other animal species. A section is dedicated to ongoing clinical studies, demonstrating the wide interest and successful efforts devoted to melanoma therapy, in particular at advanced stages of the disease, and a final section includes some considerations regarding approval for marketing by regulatory agencies. Overall, considerable commitment is being directed to the continuous development of optimized experimental models, important for the understanding of melanoma biology and for the evaluation and validation of novel therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Matias
- Research Institute for Medicines, iMed.ULisboa, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Jacinta O Pinho
- Research Institute for Medicines, iMed.ULisboa, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Maria João Penetra
- Research Institute for Medicines, iMed.ULisboa, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Gonçalo Campos
- CICS-UBI-Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6201-506 Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Catarina Pinto Reis
- Research Institute for Medicines, iMed.ULisboa, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Maria Manuela Gaspar
- Research Institute for Medicines, iMed.ULisboa, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisboa, Portugal
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20
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Rodenburg WS, van Buul JD. Rho GTPase signalling networks in cancer cell transendothelial migration. VASCULAR BIOLOGY 2021; 3:R77-R95. [PMID: 34738075 PMCID: PMC8558887 DOI: 10.1530/vb-21-0008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Rho GTPases are small signalling G-proteins that are central regulators of cytoskeleton dynamics, and thereby regulate many cellular processes, including the shape, adhesion and migration of cells. As such, Rho GTPases are also essential for the invasive behaviour of cancer cells, and thus involved in several steps of the metastatic cascade, including the extravasation of cancer cells. Extravasation, the process by which cancer cells leave the circulation by transmigrating through the endothelium that lines capillary walls, is an essential step for metastasis towards distant organs. During extravasation, Rho GTPase signalling networks not only regulate the transmigration of cancer cells but also regulate the interactions between cancer and endothelial cells and are involved in the disruption of the endothelial barrier function, ultimately allowing cancer cells to extravasate into the underlying tissue and potentially form metastases. Thus, targeting Rho GTPase signalling networks in cancer may be an effective approach to inhibit extravasation and metastasis. In this review, the complex process of cancer cell extravasation will be discussed in detail. Additionally, the roles and regulation of Rho GTPase signalling networks during cancer cell extravasation will be discussed, both from a cancer cell and endothelial cell point of view.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wessel S Rodenburg
- Molecular Cell Biology Lab at Department of Molecular Hematology, Sanquin Research and Landsteiner Laboratory, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jaap D van Buul
- Molecular Cell Biology Lab at Department of Molecular Hematology, Sanquin Research and Landsteiner Laboratory, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Leeuwenhoek Centre for Advanced Microscopy, Section Molecular Cytology at Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences at University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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