1
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Chakraborty A, Yang C, Kresak JL, Silver AJ, Feier D, Tian G, Andrews M, Sobanjo OO, Hodge ED, Engelbart MK, Huang J, Harrison JK, Sarkisian MR, Mitchell DA, Deleyrolle LP. KR158 Spheres Harboring Slow-Cycling Cells Recapitulate High-Grade Glioma Features in an Immunocompetent System. Cells 2024; 13:938. [PMID: 38891070 PMCID: PMC11171638 DOI: 10.3390/cells13110938] [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: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) poses a significant challenge in clinical oncology due to its aggressive nature, heterogeneity, and resistance to therapies. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) play a critical role in GBM, particularly in treatment resistance and tumor relapse, emphasizing the need to comprehend the mechanisms regulating these cells. Also, their multifaceted contributions to the tumor microenvironment (TME) underline their significance, driven by their unique properties. This study aimed to characterize glioblastoma stem cells (GSCs), specifically slow-cycling cells (SCCs), in an immunocompetent murine GBM model to explore their similarities with their human counterparts. Using the KR158 mouse model, we confirmed that SCCs isolated from this model exhibited key traits and functional properties akin to human SCCs. KR158 murine SCCs, expanded in the gliomasphere assay, demonstrated sphere forming ability, self-renewing capacity, positive tumorigenicity, enhanced stemness and resistance to chemotherapy. Together, our findings validate the KR158 murine model as a framework to investigate GSCs and SCCs in GBM pathology, and explore specifically the SCC-immune system communications, understand their role in disease progression, and evaluate the effect of therapeutic strategies targeting these specific connections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avirup Chakraborty
- Adam Michael Rosen Neuro-Oncology Laboratories, Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA (A.J.S.)
- Preston A. Wells Jr. Center for Brain Tumor Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA
| | - Changlin Yang
- Adam Michael Rosen Neuro-Oncology Laboratories, Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA (A.J.S.)
- Preston A. Wells Jr. Center for Brain Tumor Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA
| | - Jesse L. Kresak
- Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Aryeh J. Silver
- Adam Michael Rosen Neuro-Oncology Laboratories, Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA (A.J.S.)
| | - Diana Feier
- Adam Michael Rosen Neuro-Oncology Laboratories, Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA (A.J.S.)
| | - Guimei Tian
- Department of Surgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Michael Andrews
- College of Dental Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33314, USA
| | - Olusegun O. Sobanjo
- Adam Michael Rosen Neuro-Oncology Laboratories, Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA (A.J.S.)
| | - Ethan D. Hodge
- Adam Michael Rosen Neuro-Oncology Laboratories, Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA (A.J.S.)
| | - Mia K. Engelbart
- Adam Michael Rosen Neuro-Oncology Laboratories, Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA (A.J.S.)
| | - Jianping Huang
- Adam Michael Rosen Neuro-Oncology Laboratories, Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA (A.J.S.)
- Preston A. Wells Jr. Center for Brain Tumor Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA
| | - Jeffrey K. Harrison
- Preston A. Wells Jr. Center for Brain Tumor Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32603, USA
| | - Matthew R. Sarkisian
- Preston A. Wells Jr. Center for Brain Tumor Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Duane A. Mitchell
- Adam Michael Rosen Neuro-Oncology Laboratories, Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA (A.J.S.)
- Preston A. Wells Jr. Center for Brain Tumor Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA
| | - Loic P. Deleyrolle
- Adam Michael Rosen Neuro-Oncology Laboratories, Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA (A.J.S.)
- Preston A. Wells Jr. Center for Brain Tumor Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32608, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
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2
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MacLean MR, Walker OL, Arun RP, Fernando W, Marcato P. Informed by Cancer Stem Cells of Solid Tumors: Advances in Treatments Targeting Tumor-Promoting Factors and Pathways. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4102. [PMID: 38612911 PMCID: PMC11012648 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25074102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 03/30/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) represent a subpopulation within tumors that promote cancer progression, metastasis, and recurrence due to their self-renewal capacity and resistance to conventional therapies. CSC-specific markers and signaling pathways highly active in CSCs have emerged as a promising strategy for improving patient outcomes. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the therapeutic targets associated with CSCs of solid tumors across various cancer types, including key molecular markers aldehyde dehydrogenases, CD44, epithelial cellular adhesion molecule, and CD133 and signaling pathways such as Wnt/β-catenin, Notch, and Sonic Hedgehog. We discuss a wide array of therapeutic modalities ranging from targeted antibodies, small molecule inhibitors, and near-infrared photoimmunotherapy to advanced genetic approaches like RNA interference, CRISPR/Cas9 technology, aptamers, antisense oligonucleotides, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells, CAR natural killer cells, bispecific T cell engagers, immunotoxins, drug-antibody conjugates, therapeutic peptides, and dendritic cell vaccines. This review spans developments from preclinical investigations to ongoing clinical trials, highlighting the innovative targeting strategies that have been informed by CSC-associated pathways and molecules to overcome therapeutic resistance. We aim to provide insights into the potential of these therapies to revolutionize cancer treatment, underscoring the critical need for a multi-faceted approach in the battle against cancer. This comprehensive analysis demonstrates how advances made in the CSC field have informed significant developments in novel targeted therapeutic approaches, with the ultimate goal of achieving more effective and durable responses in cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya R. MacLean
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (M.R.M.); (O.L.W.); (R.P.A.); (W.F.)
| | - Olivia L. Walker
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (M.R.M.); (O.L.W.); (R.P.A.); (W.F.)
| | - Raj Pranap Arun
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (M.R.M.); (O.L.W.); (R.P.A.); (W.F.)
| | - Wasundara Fernando
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (M.R.M.); (O.L.W.); (R.P.A.); (W.F.)
- Department of Biology, Acadia University, Wolfville, NS B4P 2R6, Canada
| | - Paola Marcato
- Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada; (M.R.M.); (O.L.W.); (R.P.A.); (W.F.)
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
- Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
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3
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Chakraborty A, Yang C, Kresak JL, Silver A, Feier D, Tian G, Andrews M, Sobanjo OO, Hodge ED, Engelbart MK, Huang J, Harrison JK, Sarkisian MR, Mitchell DA, Deleyrolle LP. KR158 spheres harboring slow-cycling cells recapitulate GBM features in an immunocompetent system. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.26.577279. [PMID: 38501121 PMCID: PMC10945590 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.26.577279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) poses a significant challenge in clinical oncology due to its aggressive nature, heterogeneity, and resistance to therapies. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) play a critical role in GBM, particularly in treatment-resistance and tumor relapse, emphasizing the need to comprehend the mechanisms regulating these cells. Also, their multifaceted contributions to the tumor-microenvironment (TME) underline their significance, driven by their unique properties. This study aimed to characterize glioblastoma stem cells (GSCs), specifically slow-cycling cells (SCCs), in an immunocompetent murine GBM model to explore their similarities with their human counterparts. Using the KR158 mouse model, we confirmed that SCCs isolated from this model exhibited key traits and functional properties akin to human SCCs. KR158 murine SCCs, expanded in the gliomasphere assay, demonstrated sphere forming ability, self-renewing capacity, positive tumorigenicity, enhanced stemness and resistance to chemotherapy. Together, our findings validate the KR158 murine model as a framework to investigate GSCs and SCCs in GBM-pathology, and explore specifically the SCC-immune system communications, understand their role in disease progression, and evaluate the effect of therapeutic strategies targeting these specific connections.
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4
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Long F, Tian B, Li L, Ma M, Chen Z, Tan G, Yin N, Zhong C, Yu B, Guo Y, Chen M, Hu G. CircPOFUT1 fosters colorectal cancer metastasis and chemoresistance via decoying miR-653-5p/E2F7/WDR66 axis and stabilizing BMI1. iScience 2024; 27:108729. [PMID: 38230259 PMCID: PMC10790033 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.108729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024] Open
Abstract
CircRNAs are implicated in colorectal cancer (CRC) development and progression. Protein O-fucosyltransferase 1 (POFUT1) plays an oncogenic role via activating Notch1 signaling in CRC. However, the roles of circPOFUT1, which is originated from POFUT1, have not been investigated. Our study showed circPOFUT1 was highly expressed in CRC tissues and cells. CircPOFUT1 enhanced the proliferation, migration and invasion of CRC cells, and promoted tumor growth and liver metastasis in vivo. It also reinforced stemness and chemoresistance of CRC cells. Mechanistically, circPOFUT1 regulated the function of E2F7 via sponging miR-653-5p, thereby transcriptionally inducing WDR66 expression and further promoting metastasis in CRC. On the other hand, circPOFUT1 promoted stemness and chemoresistance of CRC cells via stabilizing BMI1 in an IGF2BP1-dependent manner. In conclusion, circPOFUT1 fosters CRC metastasis and chemoresistance via decoying miR-653-5p/E2F7/WDR66 axis and stabilizing BMI1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Long
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China
- Postdoctoral Station of Basic Medicine, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China
| | - Buning Tian
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China
| | - Liang Li
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China
| | - Min Ma
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China
| | - Zhijian Chen
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China
| | - Guojiang Tan
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China
| | - Ning Yin
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China
| | - Chonglei Zhong
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China
| | - Bowen Yu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China
| | - Yihang Guo
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China
| | - Miao Chen
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China
| | - Gui Hu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410013, China
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5
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Maleki EH, Bahrami AR, Matin MM. Cancer cell cycle heterogeneity as a critical determinant of therapeutic resistance. Genes Dis 2024; 11:189-204. [PMID: 37588236 PMCID: PMC10425754 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2022.11.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Intra-tumor heterogeneity is now arguably one of the most-studied topics in tumor biology, as it represents a major obstacle to effective cancer treatment. Since tumor cells are highly diverse at genetic, epigenetic, and phenotypic levels, intra-tumor heterogeneity can be assumed as an important contributing factor to the nullification of chemotherapeutic effects, and recurrence of the tumor. Based on the role of heterogeneous subpopulations of cancer cells with varying cell-cycle dynamics and behavior during cancer progression and treatment; herein, we aim to establish a comprehensive definition for adaptation of neoplastic cells against therapy. We discuss two parallel and yet distinct subpopulations of tumor cells that play pivotal roles in reducing the effects of chemotherapy: "resistant" and "tolerant" populations. Furthermore, this review also highlights the impact of the quiescent phase of the cell cycle as a survival mechanism for cancer cells. Beyond understanding the mechanisms underlying the quiescence, it provides an insightful perspective on cancer stem cells (CSCs) and their dual and intertwined functions based on their cell cycle state in response to treatment. Moreover, CSCs, epithelial-mesenchymal transformed cells, circulating tumor cells (CTCs), and disseminated tumor cells (DTCs), which are mostly in a quiescent state of the cell cycle are proved to have multiple biological links and can be implicated in our viewpoint of cell cycle heterogeneity in tumors. Overall, increasing our knowledge of cell cycle heterogeneity is a key to identifying new therapeutic solutions, and this emerging concept may provide us with new opportunities to prevent the dreadful cancer recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ebrahim H. Maleki
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, 9177948974 Mashhad, Iran
- Jagiellonian Centre for Experimental Therapeutics (JCET), Jagiellonian University, 31-007 Krakow, Poland
- Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences, Jagiellonian University, 30-348 Krakow, Poland
| | - Ahmad Reza Bahrami
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, 9177948974 Mashhad, Iran
- Industrial Biotechnology Research Group, Institute of Biotechnology, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, 9177948974 Mashhad, Iran
| | - Maryam M. Matin
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, 9177948974 Mashhad, Iran
- Novel Diagnostics and Therapeutics Research Group, Institute of Biotechnology, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, 9177948974 Mashhad, Iran
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Research Group, Iranian Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research (ACECR), Khorasan Razavi Branch, 917751376 Mashhad, Iran
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6
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Ding B, Song Y, Liu S, Peng C, Zhang Y. Mechanisms underlying the changes in acetaldehyde dehydrogenase 1 in cholangiocarcinoma. J Cancer 2023; 14:3203-3213. [PMID: 37928420 PMCID: PMC10622993 DOI: 10.7150/jca.86967] [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: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is the most recurrent malignant tumor found in the biliary system. It originates from the bile duct epithelial cells characterized by easy metastasis, high intermittent rate, and poor prognosis. Acetaldehyde dehydrogenase 1 (ALDH1), a marker of cancer stem cells, the levels of which are particularly elevated in various of malignant tumors. Additionally, the increased ALDH1 levels are closely related to the degree and prognosis of malignant tumors. This study reviewed the mechanisms underlying the changes in ALDH1 levels in CCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bai Ding
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410005 Hunan Province, China
| | - Yinghui Song
- Central Laboratory of Hunan Provincial People's Hospital (The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University), Changsha, 410015, China
| | - Sulai Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410005 Hunan Province, China
- Central Laboratory of Hunan Provincial People's Hospital (The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University), Changsha, 410015, China
| | - Chuang Peng
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410005 Hunan Province, China
| | - Yujing Zhang
- Central Laboratory of Hunan Provincial People's Hospital (The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University), Changsha, 410015, China
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Epidemiology of Hunan Province, School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
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7
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Cuesta-Borràs E, Salvans C, Arqués O, Chicote I, Ramírez L, Cabellos L, Martínez-Quintanilla J, Mur-Espinosa A, García-Álvarez A, Hernando J, Tejedor JR, Mirallas O, Élez E, Fraga MF, Tabernero J, Nuciforo P, Capdevila J, Palmer HG, Puig I. DPPA3-HIF1α axis controls colorectal cancer chemoresistance by imposing a slow cell-cycle phenotype. Cell Rep 2023; 42:112927. [PMID: 37537841 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112927] [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: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor relapse is linked to rapid chemoresistance and represents a bottleneck for cancer therapy success. Engagement of a reduced proliferation state is a non-mutational mechanism exploited by cancer cells to bypass therapy-induced cell death. Through combining functional pulse-chase experiments in engineered cells and transcriptomic analyses, we identify DPPA3 as a master regulator of slow-cycling and chemoresistant phenotype in colorectal cancer (CRC). We find a vicious DPPA3-HIF1α feedback loop that downregulates FOXM1 expression via DNA methylation, thereby delaying cell-cycle progression. Moreover, downregulation of HIF1α partially restores a chemosensitive proliferative phenotype in DPPA3-overexpressing cancer cells. In cohorts of CRC patient samples, DPPA3 overexpression acts as a predictive biomarker of chemotherapeutic resistance that subsequently requires reduction in its expression to allow metastatic outgrowth. Our work demonstrates that slow-cycling cancer cells exploit a DPPA3/HIF1α axis to support tumor persistence under therapeutic stress and provides insights on the molecular regulation of disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Estefania Cuesta-Borràs
- Stem Cells and Cancer Laboratory, Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cándida Salvans
- Stem Cells and Cancer Laboratory, Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), 08035 Barcelona, Spain; University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Oriol Arqués
- Stem Cells and Cancer Laboratory, Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Irene Chicote
- Stem Cells and Cancer Laboratory, Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), 08035 Barcelona, Spain; CIBERONC, 08029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Lorena Ramírez
- Gastrointestinal and Endocrine Tumors Group, Medical Oncology Department, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital (HUVH), Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laia Cabellos
- Stem Cells and Cancer Laboratory, Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Alex Mur-Espinosa
- Stem Cells and Cancer Laboratory, Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), 08035 Barcelona, Spain; University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alejandro García-Álvarez
- Gastrointestinal and Endocrine Tumors Group, Medical Oncology Department, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital (HUVH), Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jorge Hernando
- Gastrointestinal and Endocrine Tumors Group, Medical Oncology Department, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital (HUVH), Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Juan Ramón Tejedor
- Nanomaterials and Nanotechnology Research Center (CINN), Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), Health Research Institute of the Principality of Asturias (ISPA), Spanish Biomedical Research Network in Rare Diseases (CIBERER), Institute of Oncology of Asturias (IUOPA), University of Oviedo, 33011 Oviedo, Asturias, Spain
| | - Oriol Mirallas
- Gastrointestinal and Endocrine Tumors Group, Medical Oncology Department, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital (HUVH), Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Elena Élez
- CIBERONC, 08029 Madrid, Spain; Gastrointestinal and Endocrine Tumors Group, Medical Oncology Department, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital (HUVH), Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mario F Fraga
- Nanomaterials and Nanotechnology Research Center (CINN), Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), Health Research Institute of the Principality of Asturias (ISPA), Spanish Biomedical Research Network in Rare Diseases (CIBERER), Institute of Oncology of Asturias (IUOPA), University of Oviedo, 33011 Oviedo, Asturias, Spain
| | - Josep Tabernero
- CIBERONC, 08029 Madrid, Spain; Gastrointestinal and Endocrine Tumors Group, Medical Oncology Department, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital (HUVH), Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), 08035 Barcelona, Spain; UVic-UCC, IOB-Quiron, 08023 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Paolo Nuciforo
- CIBERONC, 08029 Madrid, Spain; Molecular Oncology Group, Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jaume Capdevila
- Gastrointestinal and Endocrine Tumors Group, Medical Oncology Department, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital (HUVH), Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), 08035 Barcelona, Spain; IOB-Teknon, 08023 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Héctor G Palmer
- Stem Cells and Cancer Laboratory, Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), 08035 Barcelona, Spain; CIBERONC, 08029 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Isabel Puig
- Stem Cells and Cancer Laboratory, Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), 08035 Barcelona, Spain; CIBERONC, 08029 Madrid, Spain.
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8
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Garimella SV, Gampa SC, Chaturvedi P. Mitochondria in Cancer Stem Cells: From an Innocent Bystander to a Central Player in Therapy Resistance. Stem Cells Cloning 2023; 16:19-41. [PMID: 37641714 PMCID: PMC10460581 DOI: 10.2147/sccaa.s417842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer continues to rank among the world's leading causes of mortality despite advancements in treatment. Cancer stem cells, which can self-renew, are present in low abundance and contribute significantly to tumor recurrence, tumorigenicity, and drug resistance to various therapies. The drug resistance observed in cancer stem cells is attributed to several factors, such as cellular quiescence, dormancy, elevated aldehyde dehydrogenase activity, apoptosis evasion mechanisms, high expression of drug efflux pumps, protective vascular niche, enhanced DNA damage response, scavenging of reactive oxygen species, hypoxic stability, and stemness-related signaling pathways. Multiple studies have shown that mitochondria play a pivotal role in conferring drug resistance to cancer stem cells, through mitochondrial biogenesis, metabolism, and dynamics. A better understanding of how mitochondria contribute to tumorigenesis, heterogeneity, and drug resistance could lead to the development of innovative cancer treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sireesha V Garimella
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Science, GITAM (Deemed to be University), Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, 530045, India
| | - Siri Chandana Gampa
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Science, GITAM (Deemed to be University), Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, 530045, India
| | - Pankaj Chaturvedi
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA
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9
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Dormancy, stemness, and therapy resistance: interconnected players in cancer evolution. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2023; 42:197-215. [PMID: 36757577 PMCID: PMC10014678 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-023-10092-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
The biological complexity of cancer represents a tremendous clinical challenge, resulting in the frequent failure of current treatment protocols. In the rapidly evolving scenario of a growing tumor, anticancer treatments impose a drastic perturbation not only to cancer cells but also to the tumor microenvironment, killing a portion of the cells and inducing a massive stress response in the survivors. Consequently, treatments can act as a double-edged sword by inducing a temporary response while laying the ground for therapy resistance and subsequent disease progression. Cancer cell dormancy (or quiescence) is a central theme in tumor evolution, being tightly linked to the tumor's ability to survive cytotoxic challenges, metastasize, and resist immune-mediated attack. Accordingly, quiescent cancer cells (QCCs) have been detected in virtually all the stages of tumor development. In recent years, an increasing number of studies have focused on the characterization of quiescent/therapy resistant cancer cells, unveiling QCCs core transcriptional programs, metabolic plasticity, and mechanisms of immune escape. At the same time, our partial understanding of tumor quiescence reflects the difficulty to identify stable QCCs biomarkers/therapeutic targets and to control cancer dormancy in clinical settings. This review focuses on recent discoveries in the interrelated fields of dormancy, stemness, and therapy resistance, discussing experimental evidences in the frame of a nonlinear dynamics approach, and exploring the possibility that tumor quiescence may represent not only a peril but also a potential therapeutic resource.
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10
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Alhaddad L, Chuprov-Netochin R, Pustovalova M, Osipov AN, Leonov S. Polyploid/Multinucleated Giant and Slow-Cycling Cancer Cell Enrichment in Response to X-ray Irradiation of Human Glioblastoma Multiforme Cells Differing in Radioresistance and TP53/PTEN Status. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021228. [PMID: 36674747 PMCID: PMC9865596 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Radioresistance compromises the efficacy of radiotherapy for glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), the most devastating and common brain tumor. The present study investigated the relationship between radiation tolerance and formation of polyploid/multinucleated giant (PGCC/MGCC) and quiescent/senescent slow-cycling cancer cells in human U-87, LN-229, and U-251 cell lines differing in TP53/PTEN status and radioresistance. We found significant enrichment in MGCC populations of U-87 and LN-229 cell lines, and generation of numerous small mononuclear (called Raju cells, or RJ cells) U-87-derived cells that eventually form cell colonies, in a process termed neosis, in response to X-ray irradiation (IR) at single acute therapeutic doses of 2-6 Gy. For the first time, single-cell high-content imaging and analysis of Ki-67- and EdU-coupled fluorescence demonstrated that the IR exposure dose-dependently augments two distinct GBM cell populations. Bifurcation of Ki-67 staining suggests fast-cycling and slow-cycling populations with a normal-sized nuclear area, and with an enlarged nuclear area, including one resembling the size of PGCC/MGCCs, that likely underlie the highest radioresistance and propensity for repopulation of U-87 cells. Proliferative activity and anchorage-independent survival of GBM cell lines seem to be related to neosis, low level of apoptosis, fraction of prematurely stress-induced senescent MGCCs, and the expression of p63 and p73, members of p53 family transcription factors, but not to the mutant p53. Collectively, our data support the importance of the TP53wt/PTENmut genotype for the maintenance of cycling radioresistant U-87 cells to produce a significant amount of senescent MGCCs as an IR stress-induced adaptation response to therapeutic irradiation doses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina Alhaddad
- School of Biological and Medical Physics, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, 141700 Dolgoprudny, Russia
| | - Roman Chuprov-Netochin
- School of Biological and Medical Physics, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, 141700 Dolgoprudny, Russia
| | - Margarita Pustovalova
- School of Biological and Medical Physics, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, 141700 Dolgoprudny, Russia
- State Research Center-Burnasyan Federal Medical Biophysical Center of Federal Medical Biological Agency (SRC-FMBC), 123098 Moscow, Russia
| | - Andreyan N. Osipov
- School of Biological and Medical Physics, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, 141700 Dolgoprudny, Russia
- State Research Center-Burnasyan Federal Medical Biophysical Center of Federal Medical Biological Agency (SRC-FMBC), 123098 Moscow, Russia
- N.N. Semenov Federal Research Center for Chemical Physics, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119991 Moscow, Russia
- Correspondence:
| | - Sergey Leonov
- School of Biological and Medical Physics, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, 141700 Dolgoprudny, Russia
- Institute of Cell Biophysics, Russian Academy of Sciences, 142290 Pushchino, Russia
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11
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López-Tejada A, Griñán-Lisón C, González-González A, Cara FE, Luque RJ, Rosa-Garrido C, Blaya-Cánovas JL, Navarro-Ocón A, Valenzuela-Torres M, Parra-López M, Calahorra J, Blancas I, Marchal JA, Granados-Principal S. TGFβ Governs the Pleiotropic Activity of NDRG1 in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Progression. Int J Biol Sci 2023; 19:204-224. [PMID: 36594086 PMCID: PMC9760438 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.78738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
In triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), the pleiotropic NDRG1 (N-Myc downstream regulated gene 1) promotes progression and worse survival, yet contradictory results were documented, and the mechanisms remain unknown. Phosphorylation and localization could drive NDRG1 pleiotropy, nonetheless, their role in TNBC progression and clinical outcome was not investigated. We found enhanced p-NDRG1 (Thr346) by TGFβ1 and explored whether it drives NDRG1 pleiotropy and TNBC progression. In tissue microarrays of 81 TNBC patients, we identified that staining and localization of NDRG1 and p-NDRG1 (Thr346) are biomarkers and risk factors associated with shorter overall survival. We found that TGFβ1 leads NDRG1, downstream of GSK3β, and upstream of NF-κB, to differentially regulate migration, invasion, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, tumor initiation, and maintenance of different populations of cancer stem cells (CSCs), depending on the progression stage of tumor cells, and the combination of TGFβ and GSK3β inhibitors impaired CSCs. The present study revealed the striking importance to assess both total NDRG1 and p-NDRG1 (Thr346) positiveness and subcellular localization to evaluate patient prognosis and their stratification. NDRG1 pleiotropy is driven by TGFβ to differentially promote metastasis and/or maintenance of CSCs at different stages of tumor progression, which could be abrogated by the inhibition of TGFβ and GSK3β.
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Affiliation(s)
- Araceli López-Tejada
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology 2, School of Pharmacy, University of Granada, 18011 Granada, Spain.,GENYO, Centre for Genomics and Oncological Research, Pfizer/University of Granada/Andalusian Regional Government, 18016 Granada, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, University Hospitals of Granada-University of Granada, Spain; Conocimiento s/n 18100, Granada. Spain
| | - Carmen Griñán-Lisón
- GENYO, Centre for Genomics and Oncological Research, Pfizer/University of Granada/Andalusian Regional Government, 18016 Granada, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, University Hospitals of Granada-University of Granada, Spain; Conocimiento s/n 18100, Granada. Spain.,UGC de Oncología Médica, Hospital Universitario de Jaén, 23007 Jaén, Spain
| | - Adrián González-González
- GENYO, Centre for Genomics and Oncological Research, Pfizer/University of Granada/Andalusian Regional Government, 18016 Granada, Spain
| | - Francisca E. Cara
- GENYO, Centre for Genomics and Oncological Research, Pfizer/University of Granada/Andalusian Regional Government, 18016 Granada, Spain
| | - Rafael J. Luque
- UGC de Anatomía Patológica, Hospital Universitario de Jaén, Jaén, Spain
| | - Carmen Rosa-Garrido
- FIBAO, Hospital Universitario de Jaén, Servicio Andaluz de Salud, Jaén, Spain
| | - José L. Blaya-Cánovas
- GENYO, Centre for Genomics and Oncological Research, Pfizer/University of Granada/Andalusian Regional Government, 18016 Granada, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, University Hospitals of Granada-University of Granada, Spain; Conocimiento s/n 18100, Granada. Spain.,UGC de Oncología Médica, Hospital Universitario de Jaén, 23007 Jaén, Spain
| | - Alba Navarro-Ocón
- GENYO, Centre for Genomics and Oncological Research, Pfizer/University of Granada/Andalusian Regional Government, 18016 Granada, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, University Hospitals of Granada-University of Granada, Spain; Conocimiento s/n 18100, Granada. Spain
| | - María Valenzuela-Torres
- GENYO, Centre for Genomics and Oncological Research, Pfizer/University of Granada/Andalusian Regional Government, 18016 Granada, Spain
| | - Marisa Parra-López
- GENYO, Centre for Genomics and Oncological Research, Pfizer/University of Granada/Andalusian Regional Government, 18016 Granada, Spain
| | - Jesús Calahorra
- GENYO, Centre for Genomics and Oncological Research, Pfizer/University of Granada/Andalusian Regional Government, 18016 Granada, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, University Hospitals of Granada-University of Granada, Spain; Conocimiento s/n 18100, Granada. Spain.,UGC de Oncología Médica, Hospital Universitario de Jaén, 23007 Jaén, Spain
| | - Isabel Blancas
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, University Hospitals of Granada-University of Granada, Spain; Conocimiento s/n 18100, Granada. Spain.,UGC de Oncología, Hospital Universitario “San Cecilio”, 18016 Granada, Spain
| | - Juan A. Marchal
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, University Hospitals of Granada-University of Granada, Spain; Conocimiento s/n 18100, Granada. Spain.,Department of Human Anatomy and Embryology, Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine Institute (IBIMER), University of Granada, 18011 Granada, Spain.,Excellence Research Unit “Modeling Nature” (MNat), University of Granada, Spain
| | - Sergio Granados-Principal
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology 2, School of Pharmacy, University of Granada, 18011 Granada, Spain.,GENYO, Centre for Genomics and Oncological Research, Pfizer/University of Granada/Andalusian Regional Government, 18016 Granada, Spain.,Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, University Hospitals of Granada-University of Granada, Spain; Conocimiento s/n 18100, Granada. Spain.,✉ Corresponding author: E-mail: . Phone number: +34 651 55 79 21
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12
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Kusienicka A, Cieśla M, Bukowska-Strakova K, Nowak WN, Bronisz-Budzyńska I, Seretny A, Żukowska M, Jeż M, Wolnik J, Józkowicz A. Slow-cycling murine melanoma cells display plasticity and enhanced tumorigenicity in syngeneic transplantation assay. Neoplasia 2022; 36:100865. [PMID: 36563633 PMCID: PMC9798190 DOI: 10.1016/j.neo.2022.100865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Slow-cycling cancer cells (SCC) contribute to the aggressiveness of many cancers, and their invasiveness and chemoresistance pose a great therapeutic challenge. However, in melanoma, their tumor-initiating abilities are not fully understood. In this study, we used the syngeneic transplantation assay to investigate the tumor-initiating properties of melanoma SCC in the physiologically relevant in vivo settings. For this we used B16-F10 murine melanoma cell line where we identified a small fraction of SCC. We found that, unlike human melanoma, the murine melanoma SCC were not marked by the high expression of the epigenetic enzyme Jarid1b. At the same time, their slow-cycling phenotype was a temporary state, similar to what was described in human melanoma. Progeny of SCC had slightly increased doxorubicin resistance and altered expression of melanogenesis genes, independent of the expression of cancer stem cell markers. Single-cell expansion of SCC revealed delayed growth and reduced clone formation when compared to non-SCC, which was further confirmed by an in vitro limiting dilution assay. Finally, syngeneic transplantation of 10 cells in vivo established that SCC were able to initiate growth in primary recipients and continue growth in the serial transplantation assay, suggesting their self-renewal nature. Together, our study highlights the high plasticity and tumorigenicity of murine melanoma SCC and suggests their role in melanoma aggressiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Kusienicka
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Biophysics, Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, 30-387 Krakow, Poland.
| | - Maciej Cieśla
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Biophysics, Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, 30-387 Krakow, Poland.
| | - Karolina Bukowska-Strakova
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Biophysics, Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, 30-387 Krakow, Poland; Department of Clinical Immunology, Institute of Pediatrics, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 31-663 Krakow, Poland.
| | - Witold Norbert Nowak
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Biophysics, Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, 30-387 Krakow, Poland.
| | - Iwona Bronisz-Budzyńska
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Biophysics, Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, 30-387 Krakow, Poland.
| | - Agnieszka Seretny
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Biophysics, Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, 30-387 Krakow, Poland.
| | - Monika Żukowska
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Biophysics, Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, 30-387 Krakow, Poland.
| | - Mateusz Jeż
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Biophysics, Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, 30-387 Krakow, Poland.
| | - Jan Wolnik
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Biophysics, Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, 30-387 Krakow, Poland.
| | - Alicja Józkowicz
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Biophysics, Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University, 30-387 Krakow, Poland.
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13
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Sonawala K, Ramalingam S, Sellamuthu I. Influence of Long Non-Coding RNA in the Regulation of Cancer Stem Cell Signaling Pathways. Cells 2022; 11:3492. [PMID: 36359888 PMCID: PMC9656902 DOI: 10.3390/cells11213492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 08/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the past two decades, cancer stem cells (CSCs) have emerged as an immensely studied and experimental topic, however a wide range of questions concerning the topic still remain unanswered; in particular, the mechanisms underlying the regulation of tumor stem cells and their characteristics. Understanding the cancer stem-cell signaling pathways may pave the way towards a better comprehension of these mechanisms. Signaling pathways such as WNT, STAT, Hedgehog, NOTCH, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, TGF-β, and NF-κB are responsible not only for modulating various features of CSCs but also their microenvironments. Recently, the prominent roles of various non-coding RNAs such as small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in developing and enhancing the tumor phenotypes have been unfolded. This review attempts to shed light on understanding the influence of long non- coding RNAs in the modulation of various CSC-signaling pathways and its impact on the CSCs and tumor properties; highlighting the protagonistic and antagonistic roles of lncRNAs.
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14
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Chen YA, Lu CY, Cheng WF, Kuo KT, Yu CW, Ho HN, Chen HF, Pan SH. An experimental model for ovarian cancer: propagation of ovarian cancer initiating cells and generation of ovarian cancer organoids. BMC Cancer 2022; 22:967. [PMID: 36085021 PMCID: PMC9463800 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-022-10042-3] [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: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Ovarian cancer (OC) is the most lethal gynecological cancer due to the recurrence of drug-resistance. Cancer initiating cells (CICs) are proposed to be responsible for the aggressiveness of OC. The rarity and difficulty of in vitro long-term cultivation of CICs challenge the development of CIC-targeting therapeutics. Reprogramming cancer cells into induced cancer initiating cell (iCICs) could be an approach to solve these. Several inducible CICs have been acquired by activating the expression of stemness genes in different cancer cells. However, few reports have demonstrated the feasibility in OC. Methods Patients with primary OC receiving surgery were enrolled. Tumor tissue were collected, and OCT4, SOX2, and NANOG expressions were assessed by immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining to investigate the association of stemness markers with overall survival (OS). An high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) cell line, OVCAR-3 was reprogrammed by transducing Yamanaka four factors OCT4, SOX2, KLF4 and MYC (OSKM) to establish an iOCIC model, iOVCAR-3-OSKM. CIC characteristics of iOVCAR-3-OSKM were evaluated by RT-PCR, sphere formation assay and animal experiments. Drug-resistance and migration ability were accessed by dye-efflux activity assay, MTT assay and migration assay. Gene profile was presented through RNA-sequencing. Lineage differentiation ability and organoid culture were determined by in vitro differentiation assays. Results In OC patients, the co-expression of multiple stem-related transcription factors (OCT4, SOX2, and NANOG) was associated with worse OS. iOVCAR-3-OSKM cells generated by reprogramming successfully exhibited stemness characteristics with strong sphere-forming and tumorigenesis ability. iOVCAR-3-OSKM cells also showed malignant potential with higher drug resistance to chemodrug, Paclitaxel (PTX) and migration ability. iOVCAR-3-OSKM was maintainable and expandable on feeder-dependent culture condition, it also preserved ovarian lineage differentiation abilities, which could well differentiate into OC cells with CK-7 and CA125 expressions and develop into an organoid mimic poor prognostic OC histological feature. Conclusions The establishment of iOVCAR-3-OSKM not only allows us to fill the gap in the information on induced CICs in OC but also provides a potential strategy to develop personalized CICs and organoid models for treating OC in the near future. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12885-022-10042-3.
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15
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Ortmayr K, Zampieri M. Sorting-free metabolic profiling uncovers the vulnerability of fatty acid β-oxidation in in vitro quiescence models. Mol Syst Biol 2022; 18:e10716. [PMID: 36094015 PMCID: PMC9465820 DOI: 10.15252/msb.202110716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Quiescent cancer cells are rare nondiving cells with the unique ability to evade chemotherapies and resume cell division after treatment. Despite the associated risk of cancer recurrence, how cells can reversibly switch between rapid proliferation and quiescence remains a long‐standing open question. By developing a unique methodology for the cell sorting‐free separation of metabolic profiles in cell subpopulations in vitro, we unraveled metabolic characteristics of quiescent cells that are largely invariant to basal differences in cell types and quiescence‐inducing stimuli. Consistent with our metabolome‐based analysis, we show that impairing mitochondrial fatty acid β‐oxidation (FAO) can induce apoptosis in quiescence‐induced cells and hamper their return to proliferation. Our findings suggest that in addition to mediating energy and redox balance, FAO can play a role in preventing the buildup of toxic intermediates during transitioning to quiescence. Uncovering metabolic strategies to enter, maintain, and exit quiescence can reveal fundamental principles in cell plasticity and new potential therapeutic targets beyond cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin Ortmayr
- Institute of Molecular Systems Biology, ETH, Zürich, Switzerland.,Division of Pharmacognosy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Mattia Zampieri
- Institute of Molecular Systems Biology, ETH, Zürich, Switzerland
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16
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Mahmoud R, Ordóñez-Morán P, Allegrucci C. Challenges for Triple Negative Breast Cancer Treatment: Defeating Heterogeneity and Cancer Stemness. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14174280. [PMID: 36077812 PMCID: PMC9454775 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14174280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) subtype is known to have a more aggressive clinical course compared to other breast cancer subtypes. Targeted therapies for this type of breast cancer are limited and patients are mostly treated with conventional chemo- and radio-therapies which are not specific and do not target resistant cells. Therefore, one of the major clinical challenges is to find compounds that target the drug-resistant cell populations which are responsible for reforming secondary tumours. The molecular profiling of the different TNBC subtypes holds a promise for better defining these resistant cells specific to each tumour. To this end, a better understanding of TNBC heterogeneity and cancer stemness is required, and extensive genomic analysis can help to understand the disease complexity and distinguish new molecular drivers that can be targeted in the clinics. The use of persister cancer cell-targeting therapies combined with other therapies may provide a big advance to improve TNBC patients' survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rinad Mahmoud
- Centre for Cancer Sciences, Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
- Translational Medical Sciences Unit, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Paloma Ordóñez-Morán
- Centre for Cancer Sciences, Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
- Translational Medical Sciences Unit, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
- Correspondence: (P.O.-M.); (C.A.)
| | - Cinzia Allegrucci
- Centre for Cancer Sciences, Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
- Nottingham Breast Cancer Research Centre, Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
- SVMS, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough LE12 5RD, UK
- Correspondence: (P.O.-M.); (C.A.)
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17
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Koltai T, Reshkin SJ, Carvalho TMA, Di Molfetta D, Greco MR, Alfarouk KO, Cardone RA. Resistance to Gemcitabine in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: A Physiopathologic and Pharmacologic Review. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:2486. [PMID: 35626089 PMCID: PMC9139729 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14102486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a very aggressive tumor with a poor prognosis and inadequate response to treatment. Many factors contribute to this therapeutic failure: lack of symptoms until the tumor reaches an advanced stage, leading to late diagnosis; early lymphatic and hematic spread; advanced age of patients; important development of a pro-tumoral and hyperfibrotic stroma; high genetic and metabolic heterogeneity; poor vascular supply; a highly acidic matrix; extreme hypoxia; and early development of resistance to the available therapeutic options. In most cases, the disease is silent for a long time, andwhen it does become symptomatic, it is too late for ablative surgery; this is one of the major reasons explaining the short survival associated with the disease. Even when surgery is possible, relapsesare frequent, andthe causes of this devastating picture are the low efficacy ofand early resistance to all known chemotherapeutic treatments. Thus, it is imperative to analyze the roots of this resistance in order to improve the benefits of therapy. PDAC chemoresistance is the final product of different, but to some extent, interconnected factors. Surgery, being the most adequate treatment for pancreatic cancer and the only one that in a few selected cases can achieve longer survival, is only possible in less than 20% of patients. Thus, the treatment burden relies on chemotherapy in mostcases. While the FOLFIRINOX scheme has a slightly longer overall survival, it also produces many more adverse eventsso that gemcitabine is still considered the first choice for treatment, especially in combination with other compounds/agents. This review discusses the multiple causes of gemcitabine resistance in PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Stephan Joel Reshkin
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari, 70126 Bari, Italy; (T.M.A.C.); (D.D.M.); (M.R.G.); (R.A.C.)
| | - Tiago M. A. Carvalho
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari, 70126 Bari, Italy; (T.M.A.C.); (D.D.M.); (M.R.G.); (R.A.C.)
| | - Daria Di Molfetta
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari, 70126 Bari, Italy; (T.M.A.C.); (D.D.M.); (M.R.G.); (R.A.C.)
| | - Maria Raffaella Greco
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari, 70126 Bari, Italy; (T.M.A.C.); (D.D.M.); (M.R.G.); (R.A.C.)
| | - Khalid Omer Alfarouk
- Zamzam Research Center, Zamzam University College, Khartoum 11123, Sudan;
- Alfarouk Biomedical Research LLC, Temple Terrace, FL 33617, USA
| | - Rosa Angela Cardone
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari, 70126 Bari, Italy; (T.M.A.C.); (D.D.M.); (M.R.G.); (R.A.C.)
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18
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Role of Amino Acid Transporter SNAT1/SLC38A1 in Human Melanoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14092151. [PMID: 35565278 PMCID: PMC9099705 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14092151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Malignant melanoma originates from melanocytes. Due to its high metastatic potential and its increasing incidence, it is one of the most aggressive types of cancer. Cancer cells generally exhibit an elevated metabolism, consequently adapting their expression of transport proteins to meet the increased demand of nutrients, such as amino acids. The aim of this study was to analyze the expression and function of the amino acid transporter SNAT1 in human melanoma. In addition, we wanted to determine its role in development and progression of malignant melanoma. We revealed that SNAT1 is overexpressed in melanoma tissue samples, as well as primary and metastatic cell lines. Moreover, we were able to show that SNAT1 plays an important role in forcing proliferation, colony formation, migration and invasion, and inhibiting senescence of melanoma cells. Amino acid transporters like SNAT1 are therefore promising targets for the development of novel therapeutic strategies against melanoma. Abstract The tumor metabolism is an important driver of cancer cell survival and growth, as rapidly dividing tumor cells exhibit a high demand for energetic sources and must adapt to microenvironmental changes. Therefore, metabolic reprogramming of cancer cells and the associated deregulation of nutrient transporters are a hallmark of cancer cells. Amino acids are essential for cancer cells to synthesize the necessary amount of protein, DNA, and RNA. Although cancer cells can synthesize glutamine de novo, most cancer cells show an increased uptake of glutamine from the tumor microenvironment. Especially SNAT1/SLC38A1, a member of the sodium neutral amino acid transporter (SNAT) family, plays an essential role during major net import of glutamine. In this study, we revealed a significant upregulation of SNAT1 expression in human melanoma tissue in comparison to healthy epidermis and an increased SNAT1 expression level in human melanoma cell lines when compared to normal human melanocytes (NHEMs). We demonstrated that functional inhibition of SNAT1 with α-(methylamino) isobutyric acid (MeAIB), as well as siRNA-mediated downregulation reduces cancer cell growth, cellular migration, invasion, and leads to induction of senescence in melanoma cells. Consequently, these results demonstrate that the amino acid transporter SNAT1 is essential for cancer growth, and indicates a potential target for cancer chemotherapy.
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Liu X, Wang Z, Yang Q, Hu X, Fu Q, Zhang X, Li W. RNA Demethylase ALKBH5 Prevents Lung Cancer Progression by Regulating EMT and Stemness via Regulating p53. Front Oncol 2022; 12:858694. [PMID: 35530319 PMCID: PMC9076132 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.858694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BackgroundAlthough N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA methylation is the most abundant reversible methylation of mRNA, which plays a critical role in regulating cancer processing, few studies have examined the role of m6A in nonsmall-cell lung cancer-derived cancer stem-like cells (CSCs).MethodsCSCs were enriched by culturing NSCLC cells in a serum-free medium, and stem factors, including CD24, CD44, ALDH1, Nanog, Oct4, and Sox2 were detected by Western blot. ALKBH5 expression was measured by employing a tissue array. Global m6A methylation was measured after ALKBH5 knockdown. Malignances of CSCs were detected by performing CCK-8 assay, invasion assay, cell cycle analysis, and tumor formation in vitro and in vivo.Resultsm6A demethylase ALKBH5 is highly expressed in CSCs derived from NSCLC. Knockdown of ALKBH5 increased global m6A level, and also increased E-cadherin, decreased stem hallmarkers, Nanog and Oct4, and inhibited stemness of CSCs. In lung carcinoma, ALKBH5 is found to be positively correlated with p53 by using Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA) online tool. P53 transcriptionally regulates ALKBH5 and subsequently regulates the global m6A methylation level. Knockdown of p53 or inhibition of p53’s transcriptional activity by addition of its specific inhibitor PFT-α decreased expression of ALKBH5 and CSCs’ malignancies, including proliferation, invasion, and tumor formation ability, indicating that p53 may partially regulate CSC’s malignancies via ALKBH5. Furthermore, we also found p53 transcriptionally regulates PRRX1, which is consistent with our previous report.ConclusionCollectively, our findings indicate the pivotal role of ALKBH5 in CSCs derived from NSCLC and highlight the regulatory function of the p53/ALKBH5 axis in modulating CSC progression, which could be a promising therapeutic target for NSCLC.
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20
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Regan JL. Protocol for isolation and functional validation of label-retaining quiescent colorectal cancer stem cells from patient-derived organoids for RNA-seq. STAR Protoc 2022; 3:101225. [PMID: 35300001 PMCID: PMC8920924 DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2022.101225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Quiescent cancer stem cells (qCSCs) are a major source of posttreatment relapse, but methods to identify molecular targets for qCSC elimination are limited. Here, we present a protocol using the fluorescent dye PKH26 to isolate label-retaining qCSCs from colorectal cancer (CRC) patient-derived organoids (PDOs). We describe processing of organoids to single cells, followed by PKH26 labeling and FACS-based cell isolation. We then detail steps for functional assays and RNA sequencing. This protocol can also be applied to normal tissue-derived organoids. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Regan et al. (2021). Protocol for the isolation of PKH26 label-retaining cells from CRC organoids Processing organoids to single cells, PKH26 labeling, and FACS Functional validation and RNA sequencing of quiescent cancer stem cells Applicable to normal tissue-derived and patient-derived organoids
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph L. Regan
- Charité Comprehensive Cancer Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
- Corresponding author
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21
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Treatment-driven tumour heterogeneity and drug resistance: lessons from solid tumours. Cancer Treat Rev 2022; 104:102340. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ctrv.2022.102340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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22
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Cevatemre B, Ulukaya E, Dere E, Dilege S, Acilan C. Pyruvate Dehydrogenase Contributes to Drug Resistance of Lung Cancer Cells Through Epithelial Mesenchymal Transition. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 9:738916. [PMID: 35083212 PMCID: PMC8785343 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.738916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Recently, there has been a growing interest on the role of mitochondria in metastatic cascade. Several reports have shown the preferential utilization of glycolytic pathway instead of mitochondrial respiration for energy production and the pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) has been considered to be a contributor to this switch in some cancers. Since epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) is proposed to be one of the significant mediators of metastasis, the molecular connections between cancer cell metabolism and EMT may reveal underlying mechanisms and improve our understanding on metastasis. In order to explore a potential role for PDH inhibition on EMT and associated drug resistance, we took both pharmacological and genetic approaches, and selectively inhibited or knocked down PDHA1 by using Cpi613 and shPDHA1, respectively. We found that both approaches triggered morphological changes and characteristics of EMT (increase in mesenchymal markers). This change was accompanied by enhanced wound healing and an increase in migration. Interestingly, cells were more resistant to many of the clinically used chemotherapeutics following PDH inhibition or PDHA1 knockdown. Furthermore, the TGFβRI (known as a major inducer of the EMT) inhibitor (SB-431542) together with the PDHi, was effective in reversing EMT. In conclusion, interfering with PDH induced EMT, and more importantly resulted in chemoresistance. Therefore, our study demonstrates the need for careful consideration of PDH-targeting approaches in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Buse Cevatemre
- Research Center for Translational Medicine, Koc University, Istanbul, Turkey.,Department of Biology, Uludag University, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Engin Ulukaya
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Istinye University Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Egemen Dere
- Department of Biology, Uludag University, Bursa, Turkey
| | - Sukru Dilege
- School of Medicine, Koc University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ceyda Acilan
- Research Center for Translational Medicine, Koc University, Istanbul, Turkey.,School of Medicine, Koc University, Istanbul, Turkey
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23
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Upadhyay P, Ghosh A, Basu A, Pranati PA, Gupta P, Das S, Sarker S, Bhattacharjee M, Bhattacharya S, Ghosh S, Chattopadhyay S, Adhikary A. Delivery of gefitinib in synergism with thymoquinone via transferrin-conjugated nanoparticle sensitizes gefitinib-resistant non-small cell lung carcinoma to control metastasis and stemness. Biomater Sci 2021; 9:8285-8312. [PMID: 34766965 DOI: 10.1039/d1bm01148k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) normally over-expresses in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells. Its mutations act as oncogenic drivers in the cellular signal transduction pathway, and induce the downstream activation of numerous key cellular events involved in cellular proliferation and survival. EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR-TK inhibitors), such as gefitinib and erlotinib, have been used for a long time in the treatment of NSCLC. However, they fail to overcome the EGFR-TK mutation due to the acquisition of drug resistance. It is strongly believed that the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a key player for acquired resistance and consequent limitation of the clinical efficiency of EGFR-TKIs. Therefore, a new strategy needs to be developed to overcome the resistance in NSCLC. In this current study, we have disclosed for the first time the efficiency of transferrin-modified PLGA-thymoquinone-nanoparticles in combination with gefitinib (NP-dual-1, NP-dual-2 and NP-dual-3) towards gefitinib-resistant A549 cells. The gefitinib-resistant A549 cells (A549/GR) showed 12.3-fold more resistance to gefitinib in comparison to non-resistant A549 cells. The phenotypic alteration resembling spindle-cell shape and increased pseudopodia integuments featured the EMT phenomena in A549/GR cells. EMT in A549/GR was later coupled with the loss of Ecad and expansion of Ncad, along with upregulated vimentin expression, as compared to the control A549 cells. Moreover, the invasive nature and migration potential are more amplified in A549/GR cells. Pre-incubation of A549 cells with TGFβ1 also initiated EMT, leading to drug resistance. Conversely, treatment of A549 or A549/GR cells with NP-dual-3 effectively retrieved the sensitivity to gefitinib, restricted the EMT phenomenon, and impaired the TGFβ1-induced EMT. On unveiling the underlying mechanism of therapeutic action, we found that STAT3 and miR-21 were individually overexpressed in the A549/GR cells by transfection, and followed by treatment with NP-dual-3. Simultaneously, NP-dual-3 fragmented HIF1-α induced EMT in A549/GR cells and reduced the CSCs markers, viz., Oct-4, Sox-2, Nanog, and Aldh1. These data are self-sufficient to suggest that NP-dual-3 re-sensitizes the drug-resistant A549/GR cells to gefitinib, possibly by retrieving MET phenomena via modulation of STAT3/mir-21/Akt/PTEN/HIF1-α axis. Thus, TQ nanoparticles combined with TKI gefitinib may provide an effective platform to treat NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyanka Upadhyay
- Center for Research in Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Technology Campus, University of Calcutta, JD-2, Sector-III, Salt Lake, Kolkata-700106, West Bengal, India.
| | - Avijit Ghosh
- Center for Research in Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Technology Campus, University of Calcutta, JD-2, Sector-III, Salt Lake, Kolkata-700106, West Bengal, India.
| | - Arijita Basu
- Department of Polymer Science and Technology, University of Calcutta, 92 Acharya Prafulla ChandraRoad, Kolkata-700009, West Bengal, India
| | - P A Pranati
- Center for Research in Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Technology Campus, University of Calcutta, JD-2, Sector-III, Salt Lake, Kolkata-700106, West Bengal, India.
| | - Payal Gupta
- Department of Physiology, University of Calcutta, 92 Acharya Prafulla Chandra Road, Kolkata-700009, West Bengal, India
| | - Shaswati Das
- Center for Research in Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Technology Campus, University of Calcutta, JD-2, Sector-III, Salt Lake, Kolkata-700106, West Bengal, India.
| | - Sushmita Sarker
- Center for Research in Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Technology Campus, University of Calcutta, JD-2, Sector-III, Salt Lake, Kolkata-700106, West Bengal, India.
| | - Mousumi Bhattacharjee
- Center for Research in Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Technology Campus, University of Calcutta, JD-2, Sector-III, Salt Lake, Kolkata-700106, West Bengal, India.
| | - Saurav Bhattacharya
- Center for Research in Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Technology Campus, University of Calcutta, JD-2, Sector-III, Salt Lake, Kolkata-700106, West Bengal, India.
| | - Swatilekha Ghosh
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University, Rajarhat, New Town, Kolkata-700156, West Bengal, India
| | - Sreya Chattopadhyay
- Department of Physiology, University of Calcutta, 92 Acharya Prafulla Chandra Road, Kolkata-700009, West Bengal, India
| | - Arghya Adhikary
- Center for Research in Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Technology Campus, University of Calcutta, JD-2, Sector-III, Salt Lake, Kolkata-700106, West Bengal, India.
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24
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Masuo K, Chen R, Yogo A, Sugiyama A, Fukuda A, Masui T, Uemoto S, Seno H, Takaishi S. SNAIL2 contributes to tumorigenicity and chemotherapy resistance in pancreatic cancer by regulating IGFBP2. Cancer Sci 2021; 112:4987-4999. [PMID: 34628696 PMCID: PMC8645768 DOI: 10.1111/cas.15162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Revised: 09/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer has an extremely poor prognosis because of its resistance to conventional therapies. Cancer stem cell (CSC)-targeted therapy is considered a promising approach for this disease. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition-inducing transcription factors (EMT-TFs) contribute to CSC properties in some solid tumors; however, this mechanism has not been fully elucidated in pancreatic cancer. Zinc finger protein, SNAIL2 (also known as SLUG), is a member of the SNAIL superfamily of EMT-TFs and is commonly overexpressed in pancreatic cancer. Patients exhibiting high SNAIL2 expression have a poor prognosis. In this study, we showed that the suppression of SNAIL2 expression using RNA interference decreased tumorigenicity in vitro (sphere formation assay) and in vivo (xenograft assay) in 2 pancreatic cancer cell lines, KLM1 and KMP5. In addition, SNAIL2 suppression resulted in increased sensitivity to gemcitabine and reduced the expression of CD44, a pancreatic CSC marker. Moreover, experiments on tumor spheroids established from surgically resected pancreatic cancer tissues yielded similar results. A microarray analysis revealed that the mechanism was mediated by insulin-like growth factor (IGF) binding protein 2. These results indicate that IGFBP2 regulated by SNAIL2 may represent an effective therapeutic target for pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenji Masuo
- DSK ProjectMedical Innovation CenterGraduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyGraduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
| | - Ru Chen
- DSK ProjectMedical Innovation CenterGraduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
| | - Akitada Yogo
- DSK ProjectMedical Innovation CenterGraduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
- Department of Hepato‐Biliary‐Pancreatic Surgery and TransplantationGraduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
| | - Aiko Sugiyama
- DSK ProjectMedical Innovation CenterGraduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
| | - Akihisa Fukuda
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyGraduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
| | - Toshihiko Masui
- Department of Hepato‐Biliary‐Pancreatic Surgery and TransplantationGraduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
| | - Shinji Uemoto
- Department of Hepato‐Biliary‐Pancreatic Surgery and TransplantationGraduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
| | - Hiroshi Seno
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyGraduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
| | - Shigeo Takaishi
- DSK ProjectMedical Innovation CenterGraduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyGraduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
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25
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Cho J, Min HY, Lee HJ, Hyun SY, Sim JY, Noh M, Hwang SJ, Park SH, Boo HJ, Lee HJ, Hong S, Park RW, Shin YK, Hung MC, Lee HY. RGS2-mediated translational control mediates cancer cell dormancy and tumor relapse. J Clin Invest 2021; 131:136779. [PMID: 33393490 DOI: 10.1172/jci136779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Slow-cycling/dormant cancer cells (SCCs) have pivotal roles in driving cancer relapse and drug resistance. A mechanistic explanation for cancer cell dormancy and therapeutic strategies targeting SCCs are necessary to improve patient prognosis, but are limited because of technical challenges to obtaining SCCs. Here, by applying proliferation-sensitive dyes and chemotherapeutics to non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cell lines and patient-derived xenografts, we identified a distinct SCC subpopulation that resembled SCCs in patient tumors. These SCCs displayed major dormancy-like phenotypes and high survival capacity under hostile microenvironments through transcriptional upregulation of regulator of G protein signaling 2 (RGS2). Database analysis revealed RGS2 as a biomarker of retarded proliferation and poor prognosis in NSCLC. We showed that RGS2 caused prolonged translational arrest in SCCs through persistent eukaryotic initiation factor 2 (eIF2α) phosphorylation via proteasome-mediated degradation of activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4). Translational activation through RGS2 antagonism or the use of phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors, including sildenafil (Viagra), promoted ER stress-induced apoptosis in SCCs in vitro and in vivo under stressed conditions, such as those induced by chemotherapy. Our results suggest that a low-dose chemotherapy and translation-instigating pharmacological intervention in combination is an effective strategy to prevent tumor progression in NSCLC patients after rigorous chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaebeom Cho
- Creative Research Initiative Center for Concurrent Control of Emphysema and Lung Cancer, College of Pharmacy
| | - Hye-Young Min
- Creative Research Initiative Center for Concurrent Control of Emphysema and Lung Cancer, College of Pharmacy.,College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, and
| | - Ho Jin Lee
- Creative Research Initiative Center for Concurrent Control of Emphysema and Lung Cancer, College of Pharmacy
| | - Seung Yeob Hyun
- Creative Research Initiative Center for Concurrent Control of Emphysema and Lung Cancer, College of Pharmacy
| | - Jeong Yeon Sim
- Creative Research Initiative Center for Concurrent Control of Emphysema and Lung Cancer, College of Pharmacy.,Department of Molecular Medicine and Biopharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School of Convergence Science and Technology and College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Myungkyung Noh
- Creative Research Initiative Center for Concurrent Control of Emphysema and Lung Cancer, College of Pharmacy
| | - Su Jung Hwang
- College of Pharmacy, Inje University, Gimhae, Gyungnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Shin-Hyung Park
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, and
| | - Hye-Jin Boo
- Creative Research Initiative Center for Concurrent Control of Emphysema and Lung Cancer, College of Pharmacy.,College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, and
| | - Hyo-Jong Lee
- College of Pharmacy, Inje University, Gimhae, Gyungnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Sungyoul Hong
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, and
| | - Rang-Woon Park
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, School of Medicine, and Cell & Matrix Research Institute, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Kee Shin
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, and.,Department of Molecular Medicine and Biopharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School of Convergence Science and Technology and College of Pharmacy, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Mien-Chie Hung
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Research Center for Cancer Biology, and Center for Molecular Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.,Department of Biotechnology, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Ho-Young Lee
- Creative Research Initiative Center for Concurrent Control of Emphysema and Lung Cancer, College of Pharmacy.,College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, and
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26
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Crous A, Abrahamse H. Aluminium (III) phthalocyanine chloride tetrasulphonate is an effective photosensitizer for the eradication of lung cancer stem cells. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2021; 8:210148. [PMID: 34527268 PMCID: PMC8424323 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.210148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are considered to contribute to the recurrence of lung cancer due to their stem-like nature and the involvement of genetic markers associated with drug efflux, regeneration and metastases. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a cost-effective and non-invasive therapeutic application that can act as an alternative therapy for lung cancer when considering CSC involvement. Stem-like cells derived from the A549 lung cancer cell line, positive for CD133, CD56 and CD44 antigen markers, were characterized, intracellular localization of aluminium (III) phthalocyanine chloride tetrasulphonate (AlPcS4Cl) determined and its anti-cancer PDT effects were evaluated. Results confirmed that isolated cells were stem cell-like and subcellular localization of AlPcS4Cl in integral organelles involved in cell homeostasis supported the destruction of CSC. AlPcS4Cl's effectivity was demonstrated with CSC eradication showing a significant increase in cytotoxicity and cell death via apoptosis, caused by a decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential. PDT could serve as a palliative treatment for lung cancer and improve prognosis by elimination of lung CSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anine Crous
- Laser Research Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Johannesburg, PO Box 17011, Johannesburg 2028, South Africa
| | - Heidi Abrahamse
- Laser Research Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Johannesburg, PO Box 17011, Johannesburg 2028, South Africa
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27
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Patil K, Khan FB, Akhtar S, Ahmad A, Uddin S. The plasticity of pancreatic cancer stem cells: implications in therapeutic resistance. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2021; 40:691-720. [PMID: 34453639 PMCID: PMC8556195 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-021-09979-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The ever-growing perception of cancer stem cells (CSCs) as a plastic state rather than a hardwired defined entity has evolved our understanding of the functional and biological plasticity of these elusive components in malignancies. Pancreatic cancer (PC), based on its biological features and clinical evolution, is a prototypical example of a CSC-driven disease. Since the discovery of pancreatic CSCs (PCSCs) in 2007, evidence has unraveled their control over many facets of the natural history of PC, including primary tumor growth, metastatic progression, disease recurrence, and acquired drug resistance. Consequently, the current near-ubiquitous treatment regimens for PC using aggressive cytotoxic agents, aimed at ‘‘tumor debulking’’ rather than eradication of CSCs, have proven ineffective in providing clinically convincing improvements in patients with this dreadful disease. Herein, we review the key hallmarks as well as the intrinsic and extrinsic resistance mechanisms of CSCs that mediate treatment failure in PC and enlist the potential CSC-targeting ‘natural agents’ that are gaining popularity in recent years. A better understanding of the molecular and functional landscape of PCSC-intrinsic evasion of chemotherapeutic drugs offers a facile opportunity for treating PC, an intractable cancer with a grim prognosis and in dire need of effective therapeutic advances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kalyani Patil
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, P.O. Box 3050, Doha, Qatar
| | - Farheen B Khan
- Department of Biology, College of Science, The United Arab Emirates University, PO Box 15551, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Sabah Akhtar
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, P.O. Box 3050, Doha, Qatar
| | - Aamir Ahmad
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, P.O. Box 3050, Doha, Qatar.,Dermatology Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Shahab Uddin
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, P.O. Box 3050, Doha, Qatar. .,Dermatology Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar. .,Laboratory Animal Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
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28
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Quayle LA, Spicer A, Ottewell PD, Holen I. Transcriptomic Profiling Reveals Novel Candidate Genes and Signalling Programs in Breast Cancer Quiescence and Dormancy. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13163922. [PMID: 34439077 PMCID: PMC8392441 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13163922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Metastatic recurrence, the major cause of breast cancer mortality, is driven by reactivation of dormant disseminated tumour cells that are defined by mitotic quiescence and chemoresistance. The molecular mechanisms underpinning mitotic quiescence in cancer are poorly understood, severely limiting the development of novel therapies for removal of residual, metastasis-initiating tumour cells. Here, we present a molecular portrait of the quiescent breast cancer cell transcriptome across the four main breast cancer sub-types (luminal, HER2-enriched, basal-like and claudin-low) and identify a novel quiescence-associated 22-gene signature using an established lipophilic-dye (Vybrant® DiD) retention model and whole-transcriptomic profiling (mRNA-Seq). Using functional association network analysis, we elucidate the molecular interactors of these signature genes. We then go on to demonstrate that our novel 22-gene signature strongly correlates with low tumoural proliferative activity, and with dormant disease and late metastatic recurrence (≥5 years after primary tumour diagnosis) in metastatic breast cancer in multiple clinical cohorts. These genes may govern the formation and persistence of disseminated tumour cell populations responsible for breast cancer recurrence, and therefore represent prospective novel candidates to inform future development of therapeutic strategies to target disseminated tumour cells in breast cancer, eliminate minimal residual disease and prevent metastatic recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lewis A. Quayle
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, Medical School, University of Sheffield, Beech Hill Road, Sheffield S10 2RX, UK; (A.S.); (P.D.O.); (I.H.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +44-114-215-9209
| | - Amy Spicer
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, Medical School, University of Sheffield, Beech Hill Road, Sheffield S10 2RX, UK; (A.S.); (P.D.O.); (I.H.)
- The Francis Crick Institute, Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Penelope D. Ottewell
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, Medical School, University of Sheffield, Beech Hill Road, Sheffield S10 2RX, UK; (A.S.); (P.D.O.); (I.H.)
| | - Ingunn Holen
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, Medical School, University of Sheffield, Beech Hill Road, Sheffield S10 2RX, UK; (A.S.); (P.D.O.); (I.H.)
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29
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Abstract
Tumour recurrence is a serious impediment to cancer treatment, but the mechanisms involved are poorly understood. The most frequently used anti-tumour therapies-chemotherapy and radiotherapy-target highly proliferative cancer cells. However non- or slow-proliferative dormant cancer cells can persist after treatment, eventually causing tumour relapse. Whereas the reversible growth arrest mechanism allows quiescent cells to re-enter the cell cycle, senescent cells are largely thought to be irreversibly arrested, and may instead contribute to tumour growth and relapse through paracrine signalling mechanisms. Thus, due to the differences in their growth arrest mechanism, metabolic features, plasticity and adaptation to their respective tumour microenvironment, dormant-senescent and -quiescent cancer cells could have different but complementary roles in fuelling tumour growth. In this review article, we discuss the implication of dormant cancer cells in tumour relapse and the need to understand how quiescent and senescent cells, respectively, may play a part in this process.
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30
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Regan JL, Schumacher D, Staudte S, Steffen A, Lesche R, Toedling J, Jourdan T, Haybaeck J, Mumberg D, Henderson D, Győrffy B, Regenbrecht CRA, Keilholz U, Schäfer R, Lange M. RNA sequencing of long-term label-retaining colon cancer stem cells identifies novel regulators of quiescence. iScience 2021; 24:102618. [PMID: 34142064 PMCID: PMC8185225 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.102618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent data suggest that therapy-resistant quiescent cancer stem cells (qCSCs) are the source of relapse in colon cancer. Here, using colon cancer patient-derived organoids and xenografts, we identify rare long-term label-retaining qCSCs that can re-enter the cell cycle to generate new tumors. RNA sequencing analyses demonstrated that these cells display the molecular hallmarks of quiescent tissue stem cells, including expression of p53 signaling genes, and are enriched for transcripts common to damage-induced quiescent revival stem cells of the regenerating intestine. In addition, we identify negative regulators of cell cycle, downstream of p53, that we show are indicators of poor prognosis and may be targeted for qCSC abolition in both p53 wild-type and mutant tumors. These data support the temporal inhibition of downstream targets of p53 signaling, in combination with standard-of-care treatments, for the elimination of qCSCs and prevention of relapse in colon cancer. Colon tumors contain therapy-resistant quiescent cancer stem cells (qCSCs) qCSC gene expression mirrors that of quiescent stem cells of the regenerating gut qCSCs are enriched for p53 signaling genes qCSC elimination may be achieved by inhibiting downstream targets of p53 signaling
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph L Regan
- Bayer AG, Research & Development, Pharmaceuticals, 13342 Berlin, Germany.,Charité Comprehensive Cancer Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Dirk Schumacher
- Laboratory of Molecular Tumor Pathology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), DKFZ, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Stephanie Staudte
- Bayer AG, Research & Development, Pharmaceuticals, 13342 Berlin, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), DKFZ, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany.,Department of Radiation Oncology and Radiotherapy, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Andreas Steffen
- Bayer AG, Research & Development, Pharmaceuticals, 13342 Berlin, Germany
| | - Ralf Lesche
- Bayer AG, Research & Development, Pharmaceuticals, 13342 Berlin, Germany.,Nuvisan ICB GmbH, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Joern Toedling
- Bayer AG, Research & Development, Pharmaceuticals, 13342 Berlin, Germany.,Nuvisan ICB GmbH, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Thibaud Jourdan
- Bayer AG, Research & Development, Pharmaceuticals, 13342 Berlin, Germany
| | - Johannes Haybaeck
- Institute of Pathology, Neuropathology and Molecular Pathology, Medical University of Innsbruck, A-6020 Innsbruck, Austria.,Diagnostic & Research Center for Molecular Biomedicine, Institute of Pathology, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria
| | - Dominik Mumberg
- Bayer AG, Research & Development, Pharmaceuticals, 13342 Berlin, Germany
| | - David Henderson
- Bayer AG, Research & Development, Pharmaceuticals, 13342 Berlin, Germany
| | - Balázs Győrffy
- Department of Bioinformatics, Semmelweis University, 1094 Budapest, Hungary.,TTK Cancer Biomarker Research Group, Institute of Enzymology, 1117 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Christian R A Regenbrecht
- Laboratory of Molecular Tumor Pathology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany.,CELLphenomics GmbH, 13125 Berlin, Germany.,Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Göttingen, 37075 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Ulrich Keilholz
- Charité Comprehensive Cancer Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Reinhold Schäfer
- Charité Comprehensive Cancer Center, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany.,Laboratory of Molecular Tumor Pathology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, 10117 Berlin, Germany.,German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), DKFZ, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Martin Lange
- Bayer AG, Research & Development, Pharmaceuticals, 13342 Berlin, Germany.,Nuvisan ICB GmbH, 13353 Berlin, Germany
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31
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Slow-cycling (dormant) cancer cells in therapy resistance, cancer relapse and metastasis. Semin Cancer Biol 2021; 78:90-103. [PMID: 33979674 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2021.04.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
It is increasingly appreciated that cancer cell heterogeneity and plasticity constitute major barriers to effective clinical treatments and long-term therapeutic efficacy. Research in the past two decades suggest that virtually all treatment-naive human cancers harbor subsets of cancer cells that possess many of the cardinal features of normal stem cells. Such stem-like cancer cells, operationally defined as cancer stem cells (CSCs), are frequently quiescent and dynamically change and evolve during tumor progression and therapeutic interventions. Intrinsic tumor cell heterogeneity is reflected in a different aspect in that tumors also harbor a population of slow-cycling cells (SCCs) that are not in the proliferative cell cycle and thus are intrinsically refractory to anti-mitotic drugs. In this Perspective, we focus our discussions on SCCs in cancer and on various methodologies that can be employed to enrich and purify SCCs, compare the similarities and differences between SCCs, CSCs and cancer cells undergoing EMT, and present evidence for the involvement of SCCs in surviving anti-neoplastic treatments, mediating tumor relapse, maintaining tumor dormancy and mediating metastatic dissemination. Our discussions make it clear that an in-depth understanding of the biological properties of SCCs in cancer will be instrumental to developing new therapeutic strategies to prevent tumor relapse and distant metastasis.
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32
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Domrachev B, Singh S, Li D, Rudloff U. Mini-Review: PDPK1 (3-phosphoinositide dependent protein kinase-1), An Emerging Cancer Stem Cell Target. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 5:30-35. [PMID: 34079928 PMCID: PMC8168947 DOI: 10.29245/2578-2967/2021/1.1194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are subpopulations of tumor cells that possess abilities for self-renewal, differentiation, and tumor initiation. These rare but therapy-recalcitrant cells are assumed to repopulate tumors following administration of systemic chemotherapy driving therapy failure, tumor recurrence, and disease progression. In early clinical trials, anti-CSC therapies have found limited success to-date possibly due to the inherent heterogeneity and plasticity of CSCs and the incomplete characterization of essential CSC targets. Here, we review the role of 3-phosphoinositide dependent protein kinase-1 (PDPK1) as an emerging CSC target. While most previous studies have relied on CSC models which are based on lineage and tissue-specific marker profiles to define the relationships between putative target and CSC traits, this review discusses PDPK1 and its role in CSC biology with an emphasis on CSC systems which are based on proposed function like label-retaining cancer cells (LRCCs).
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Affiliation(s)
- Bogdan Domrachev
- Rare Tumor Initiative, Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Sitanshu Singh
- Rare Tumor Initiative, Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Dandan Li
- Thoracic & GI Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Udo Rudloff
- Rare Tumor Initiative, Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA.,Thoracic & GI Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
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33
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Tuy K, Rickenbacker L, Hjelmeland AB. Reactive oxygen species produced by altered tumor metabolism impacts cancer stem cell maintenance. Redox Biol 2021; 44:101953. [PMID: 34052208 PMCID: PMC8212140 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2021.101953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Controlling reactive oxygen species (ROS) at sustainable levels can drive multiple facets of tumor biology, including within the cancer stem cell (CSC) population. Tight regulation of ROS is one key component in CSCs that drives disease recurrence, cell signaling, and therapeutic resistance. While ROS are well-appreciated to need oxygen and are a product of oxidative phosphorylation, there are also important roles for ROS under hypoxia. As hypoxia promotes and sustains major stemness pathways, further consideration of ROS impacts on CSCs in the tumor microenvironment is important. Furthermore, glycolytic shifts that occur in cancer and may be promoted by hypoxia are associated with multiple mechanisms to mitigate oxidative stress. This altered metabolism provides survival advantages that sustain malignant features, such as proliferation and self-renewal, while producing the necessary antioxidants that reduce damage from oxidative stress. Finally, disease recurrence is believed to be attributed to therapy resistant CSCs which can be quiescent and have changes in redox status. Effective DNA damage response pathways and/or a slow-cycling state can protect CSCs from the genomic catastrophe induced by irradiation and genotoxic agents. This review will explore the delicate, yet complex, relationship between ROS and its pleiotropic role in modulating the CSC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaysaw Tuy
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Lucas Rickenbacker
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Anita B Hjelmeland
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.
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34
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Nik Nabil WN, Xi Z, Song Z, Jin L, Zhang XD, Zhou H, De Souza P, Dong Q, Xu H. Towards a Framework for Better Understanding of Quiescent Cancer Cells. Cells 2021; 10:cells10030562. [PMID: 33807533 PMCID: PMC7999675 DOI: 10.3390/cells10030562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Quiescent cancer cells (QCCs) are cancer cells that are reversibly suspended in G0 phase with the ability to re-enter the cell cycle and initiate tumor growth, and, ultimately, cancer recurrence and metastasis. QCCs are also therapeutically challenging due to their resistance to most conventional cancer treatments that selectively act on proliferating cells. Considering the significant impact of QCCs on cancer progression and treatment, better understanding of appropriate experimental models, and the evaluation of QCCs are key questions in the field that have direct influence on potential pharmacological interventions. Here, this review focuses on existing and emerging preclinical models and detection methods for QCCs and discusses their respective features and scope for application. By providing a framework for selecting appropriate experimental models and investigative methods, the identification of the key players that regulate the survival and activation of QCCs and the development of more effective QCC-targeting therapeutic agents may mitigate the consequences of QCCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wan Najbah Nik Nabil
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China; (W.N.N.N.); (Z.X.); (Z.S.)
- Pharmaceutical Services Programme, Ministry of Health, Petaling Jaya 46200, Malaysia
| | - Zhichao Xi
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China; (W.N.N.N.); (Z.X.); (Z.S.)
| | - Zejia Song
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China; (W.N.N.N.); (Z.X.); (Z.S.)
| | - Lei Jin
- School of Medicine and Public Health, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW 2308, Australia;
| | - Xu Dong Zhang
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW 2308, Australia;
| | - Hua Zhou
- Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China;
| | - Paul De Souza
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, NSW 2751, Australia;
| | - Qihan Dong
- Chinese Medicine Anti-Cancer Evaluation Program, Greg Brown Laboratory, Central Clinical School and Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
- Department of Endocrinology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, NSW 2050, Australia
- Correspondence: (Q.D.); (H.X.)
| | - Hongxi Xu
- Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China;
- Correspondence: (Q.D.); (H.X.)
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35
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Mahmoudian RA, Gharaie ML, Abbaszadegan MR, Alasti A, Forghanifard MM, Mansouri A, Gholamin M. Crosstalk between MMP-13, CD44, and TWIST1 and its role in regulation of EMT in patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Mol Cell Biochem 2021; 476:2465-2478. [PMID: 33604811 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-021-04089-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) play key roles in epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) for the development of cancer cell invasion and metastasis. MMP-13 is an extracellular matrix (ECM)-degrading enzyme that plays crucial roles in angiogenesis, cell cycle regulation, niche maintenance, and transforming squamous epithelial cells in various tissues. CD44, a transmembrane glycoprotein expressed on esophageal tumor cells, is required for EMT induction and invasion in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). The transcription factor TWIST1, as EMT and stemness marker, regulates MMPs expression and is identified as the downstream target of CD44. In this study, we aimed to investigate the probable interplay between the expression of key genes contributing to ESCC development, including MMP-13, TWIST1, and CD44 with clinical features for introducing novel diagnostic and therapeutic targets in the disease. The gene expression profiling of MMP-13, TWIST1, and CD44 was performed using quantitative real-time PCR in tumor tissues from 50 ESCC patients compared to corresponding margin non-tumoral tissues. Significant overexpression of MMP-13, CD44S, CD44V3, CD44V6, and TWIST1 were observed in 74%, 36%, 44%, 44%, and 52% of ESCC tumor samples, respectively. Overexpression of MMP-13 was associated with stage of tumor progression, metastasis, and tumor location (P < 0.05). There was a significant correlation between TWIST1 overexpression and grade (P < 0.05). Furthermore, overexpression of CD44 variants was associated with stage of tumor progression, grade, tumor invasion, and location (P < 0.05). The results indicated the significant correlation between concomitant expression of MMP-13/TWIST1, TWIST1/CD44, and CD44/MMP-13 with each other in a variety of clinicopathological traits, including depth of tumor invasion, tumor location, stage of tumor, and lymph node involvement in ESCC tissue samples (P < 0.05). Collectively, our results indicate that the TWIST1-CD44-MMP-13 axis is involved in tumor aggressiveness, proposing these genes as regulators of EMT, diagnostic markers, and therapeutic targets in ESCC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maryam Lotfi Gharaie
- Immunology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Division of Physiology, Department of Basic Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | | | - Ali Alasti
- Immunology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | | | - Atena Mansouri
- Nanotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Innovated Medical Research Center and Department of Immunology, Mashhad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mehran Gholamin
- Immunology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran. .,Department of Laboratory Sciences, School of Paramedical Sciences, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, P.O.Box 345-91357, Mashhad, Iran.
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36
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Berghoff AS, Liao Y, Karreman MA, Ilhan-Mutlu A, Gunkel K, Sprick MR, Eisen C, Kessler T, Osswald M, Wünsche S, Feinauer M, Gril B, Marmé F, Michel LL, Bago-Horvath Z, Sahm F, Becker N, Breckwoldt MO, Solecki G, Gömmel M, Huang L, Rübmann P, Thome CM, Ratliff M, Trumpp A, Steeg PS, Preusser M, Wick W, Winkler F. Identification and Characterization of Cancer Cells That Initiate Metastases to the Brain and Other Organs. Mol Cancer Res 2020; 19:688-701. [PMID: 33443114 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-20-0863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2020] [Revised: 11/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Specific biological properties of those circulating cancer cells that are the origin of brain metastases (BM) are not well understood. Here, single circulating breast cancer cells were fate-tracked during all steps of the brain metastatic cascade in mice after intracardial injection over weeks. A novel in vivo two-photon microscopy methodology was developed that allowed to determine the specific cellular and molecular features of breast cancer cells that homed in the brain, extravasated, and successfully established a brain macrometastasis. Those BM-initiating breast cancer cells (BMIC) were mainly originating from a slow-cycling subpopulation that included only 16% to 20% of all circulating cancer cells. BMICs showed enrichment of various markers of cellular stemness. As a proof of principle for the principal usefulness of this approach, expression profiling of BMICs versus non-BMICs was performed, which revealed upregulation of NDRG1 in the slow-cycling BMIC subpopulation in one BM model. Here, BM development was completely suppressed when NDRG1 expression was downregulated. In accordance, in primary human breast cancer, NDRG1 expression was heterogeneous, and high NDRG1 expression was associated with shorter metastasis-free survival. In conclusion, our data identify temporary slow-cycling breast cancer cells as the dominant source of brain and other metastases and demonstrates that this can lead to better understanding of BMIC-relevant pathways, including potential new approaches to prevent BM in patients. IMPLICATIONS: Cancer cells responsible for successful brain metastasis outgrowth are slow cycling and harbor stemness features. The molecular characteristics of these metastasis-initiating cells can be studied using intravital microscopy technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna S Berghoff
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Neurooncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,Neurology Clinic and National Center for Tumor Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,Department of Medicine 1, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Yunxiang Liao
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Neurooncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,Neurology Clinic and National Center for Tumor Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Matthia A Karreman
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Neurooncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,Neurology Clinic and National Center for Tumor Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Katharina Gunkel
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Neurooncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,Neurology Clinic and National Center for Tumor Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Martin R Sprick
- Heidelberg Institute for Stem Cell Technology and Experimental Medicine (HI-STEM), Heidelberg, Germany; Division of Stem Cells and Cancer, Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Christian Eisen
- Heidelberg Institute for Stem Cell Technology and Experimental Medicine (HI-STEM), Heidelberg, Germany; Division of Stem Cells and Cancer, Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Tobias Kessler
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Neurooncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,Neurology Clinic and National Center for Tumor Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Matthias Osswald
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Neurooncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,Neurology Clinic and National Center for Tumor Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Susanne Wünsche
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Neurooncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,Neurology Clinic and National Center for Tumor Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Manuel Feinauer
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Neurooncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,Neurology Clinic and National Center for Tumor Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Brunhilde Gril
- Women's Malignancies Branch, Laboratory of Pathology, Center for Cancer Research, Biostatistics and Data Management Section, NCI, NIH, Bethesda; Laboratory Animal Sciences Program, SAIC-Frederick, NCI, NIH, Frederick, Maryland
| | - Frederic Marmé
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics and National Center for Tumor Diseases, University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Laura L Michel
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics and National Center for Tumor Diseases, University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Felix Sahm
- Department of Neuropathology, Institute of Pathology, Ruprecht-Karls University Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,Clinical Cooperation Unit Neuropathology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Natalia Becker
- Division of Biostatistics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Michael O Breckwoldt
- Department of Neuroradiology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Gergely Solecki
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Neurooncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,Neurology Clinic and National Center for Tumor Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Miriam Gömmel
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Neurooncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,Neurology Clinic and National Center for Tumor Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Lulu Huang
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Neurooncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,Neurology Clinic and National Center for Tumor Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Petra Rübmann
- Neurology Clinic and National Center for Tumor Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Carina M Thome
- Neurology Clinic and National Center for Tumor Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Miriam Ratliff
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Neurooncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,Neurology Clinic and National Center for Tumor Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Andreas Trumpp
- Heidelberg Institute for Stem Cell Technology and Experimental Medicine (HI-STEM), Heidelberg, Germany; Division of Stem Cells and Cancer, Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Patricia S Steeg
- Women's Malignancies Branch, Laboratory of Pathology, Center for Cancer Research, Biostatistics and Data Management Section, NCI, NIH, Bethesda; Laboratory Animal Sciences Program, SAIC-Frederick, NCI, NIH, Frederick, Maryland
| | - Matthias Preusser
- Department of Medicine 1, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Wolfgang Wick
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Neurooncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,Neurology Clinic and National Center for Tumor Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Frank Winkler
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Neurooncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany. .,Neurology Clinic and National Center for Tumor Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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37
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Cancer Metabolism: Phenotype, Signaling and Therapeutic Targets. Cells 2020; 9:cells9102308. [PMID: 33081387 PMCID: PMC7602974 DOI: 10.3390/cells9102308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 206] [Impact Index Per Article: 51.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Revised: 10/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Aberrant metabolism is a major hallmark of cancer. Abnormal cancer metabolism, such as aerobic glycolysis and increased anabolic pathways, has important roles in tumorigenesis, metastasis, drug resistance, and cancer stem cells. Well-known oncogenic signaling pathways, such as phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT, Myc, and Hippo pathway, mediate metabolic gene expression and increase metabolic enzyme activities. Vice versa, deregulated metabolic pathways contribute to defects in cellular signal transduction pathways, which in turn provide energy, building blocks, and redox potentials for unrestrained cancer cell proliferation. Studies and clinical trials are being performed that focus on the inhibition of metabolic enzymes by small molecules or dietary interventions (e.g., fasting, calorie restriction, and intermittent fasting). Similar to genetic heterogeneity, the metabolic phenotypes of cancers are highly heterogeneous. This heterogeneity results from diverse cues in the tumor microenvironment and genetic mutations. Hence, overcoming metabolic plasticity is an important goal of modern cancer therapeutics. This review highlights recent findings on the metabolic phenotypes of cancer and elucidates the interactions between signal transduction pathways and metabolic pathways. We also provide novel rationales for designing the next-generation cancer metabolism drugs.
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38
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Fujiwara S, Kawamoto T, Kawakami Y, Koterazawa Y, Hara H, Takemori T, Kitayama K, Yahiro S, Kakutani K, Matsumoto T, Matsushita T, Niikura T, Koyanagi-Aoi M, Aoi T, Kuroda R, Akisue T. Acquisition of cancer stem cell properties in osteosarcoma cells by defined factors. Stem Cell Res Ther 2020; 11:429. [PMID: 33008481 PMCID: PMC7532109 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-020-01944-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are considered to be responsible for tumor initiation, formation, and poor prognosis of cancer patients. However, the rarity of CSCs in clinical samples makes it difficult to elucidate characteristics of CSCs, especially in osteosarcoma (OS). The aim of this study is to verify whether it is possible to generate CSC-like cells by transducing defined factors into an OS cell line. Methods We retrovirally transduced the Octamer-binding transcription factor 3/4 (OCT3/4), Kruppel-like factor 4 (KLF4), and SRY-box transcription factor 2 (SOX2) genes into the MG-63 human OS cell line (MG-OKS). Parental and GFP-transduced MG-63 cells were used as negative control. We assessed the properties of the generated cells in vitro and in vivo. Multiple comparisons among groups were made using a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by post hoc testing with Tukey’s procedure. Results MG-OKS cells in vitro exhibited the significantly increased mRNA expression levels of CSC markers (CD24, CD26, and CD133), decreased cell growth, increased chemoresistance and cell migration, and enhanced sphere formation. Notably, MG-OKS cells cultured under osteogenic differentiation conditions showed strongly positive staining for both Alizarin Red S and alkaline phosphatase, indicating osteogenesis of the cells. Gene ontology analysis of microarray data revealed significant upregulation of epidermal-related genes. Tumors derived from MG-OKS cells in vivo were significantly larger than those from other cells in μCT analysis, and immunohistochemical staining showed that Ki-67, osteocalcin, and HIF-1α-positive cells were more frequently detected in the MG-OKS-derived tumors. Conclusions In this study, we successfully generated OS CSC-like cells with significantly enhanced CSC properties following transduction of defined factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuichi Fujiwara
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, 7-5-1 Kusunoki-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe, 650-0017, Japan
| | - Teruya Kawamoto
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, 7-5-1 Kusunoki-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe, 650-0017, Japan. .,Division of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Hospital International Clinical Cancer Research Center, Kobe, Japan.
| | - Yohei Kawakami
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, 7-5-1 Kusunoki-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe, 650-0017, Japan
| | - Yasufumi Koterazawa
- Department of iPS Cell Applications, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan.,Division of Advanced Medical Science, Graduate School of Science, Technology and Innovation, Kobe University, Kobe, Japan.,Division of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Hitomi Hara
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, 7-5-1 Kusunoki-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe, 650-0017, Japan
| | - Toshiyuki Takemori
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, 7-5-1 Kusunoki-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe, 650-0017, Japan
| | - Kazumichi Kitayama
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, 7-5-1 Kusunoki-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe, 650-0017, Japan
| | - Shunsuke Yahiro
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, 7-5-1 Kusunoki-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe, 650-0017, Japan
| | - Kenichiro Kakutani
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, 7-5-1 Kusunoki-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe, 650-0017, Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Matsumoto
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, 7-5-1 Kusunoki-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe, 650-0017, Japan
| | - Takehiko Matsushita
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, 7-5-1 Kusunoki-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe, 650-0017, Japan
| | - Takahiro Niikura
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, 7-5-1 Kusunoki-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe, 650-0017, Japan
| | - Michiyo Koyanagi-Aoi
- Department of iPS Cell Applications, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan.,Division of Advanced Medical Science, Graduate School of Science, Technology and Innovation, Kobe University, Kobe, Japan.,Center for Human Resource development for Regenerative Medicine, Kobe University Hospital, Kobe, Japan
| | - Takashi Aoi
- Department of iPS Cell Applications, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan.,Division of Advanced Medical Science, Graduate School of Science, Technology and Innovation, Kobe University, Kobe, Japan.,Center for Human Resource development for Regenerative Medicine, Kobe University Hospital, Kobe, Japan
| | - Ryosuke Kuroda
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, 7-5-1 Kusunoki-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe, 650-0017, Japan
| | - Toshihiro Akisue
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, 7-5-1 Kusunoki-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe, 650-0017, Japan.,Department of Rehabilitation Science, Kobe University Graduate School of Health Sciences, Kobe, Japan
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Safa AR. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition: a hallmark in pancreatic cancer stem cell migration, metastasis formation, and drug resistance. JOURNAL OF CANCER METASTASIS AND TREATMENT 2020; 6:36. [PMID: 34841087 PMCID: PMC8623975 DOI: 10.20517/2394-4722.2020.55] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Metastasis, tumor progression, and chemoresistance are the major causes of death in patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Tumor dissemination is associated with the activation of an epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process, a program by which epithelial cells lose their cell polarity and cell-to-cell adhesion, and acquire migratory and invasive abilities to become mesenchymal stem cells (MSC). These MSCs are multipotent stromal cells capable of differentiating into various cell types and trigger the phenotypic transition from an epithelial to a mesenchymal state. Therefore, EMT promotes migration and survival during cancer metastasis and confers stemness features to particular subsets of cells. Furthermore, a major problem limiting our ability to treat PDAC is the existence of rare populations of pancreatic cancer stem cells (PCSCs) or cancer-initiating cells in pancreatic tumors. PCSCs may represent sub-populations of tumor cells resistant to therapy which are most crucial for driving invasive tumor growth. These cells are capable of regenerating the cellular heterogeneity associated with the primary tumor when xenografted into mice. Therefore, the presence of PCSCs has prognostic relevance and influences the therapeutic response of tumors. PCSCs express markers of cancer stem cells (CSCs) including CD24, CD133, CD44, and epithelial specific antigen as well as the drug transporter ABCG2 grow as spheroids in a defined growth medium. A major difficulty in studying tumor cell dissemination and metastasis has been the identification of markers that distinguish metastatic cancer cells from cells that are normally circulating in the bloodstream or at sites where these cells metastasize. Evidence highlights a linkage between CSC and EMT. In this review, The current understanding of the PCSCs, signaling pathways regulating these cells, PDAC heterogeneity, EMT mechanism, and links between EMT and metastasis in PCSCs are summarised. This information may provide potential therapeutic strategies to prevent EMT and trigger CSC growth inhibition and cell death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad R Safa
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA
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40
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Yuan H, Guo H, Luan X, He M, Li F, Burnett J, Truchan N, Sun D. Albumin Nanoparticle of Paclitaxel (Abraxane) Decreases while Taxol Increases Breast Cancer Stem Cells in Treatment of Triple Negative Breast Cancer. Mol Pharm 2020; 17:2275-2286. [PMID: 32485107 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.9b01221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) has a high rate of metastasis, which is associated with breast cancer stem-like cells (CSCs). Although Taxol (micelle formulation of paclitaxel) is the first line chemotherapy to treat TNBC, it increases CSCs in residual tumors. Abraxane, albumin nanoparticle of paclitaxel, showed lower plasma concentration compared to Taxol in both human and animal models, but it is not clear why Abraxane showed superior efficacy to Taxol in treatment of metastatic breast cancer in humans. In this study, we intend to investigate if Abraxane eliminates CSCs for its better efficacy. The results showed that Abraxane showed similar cytotoxicity in SUM149 cells in comparison with Taxol. Although Abraxane showed 3- to 5-fold lower blood drug concentration compared to Taxol, it achieved similar tumor drug concentration and 10-fold higher tumor/plasma ratio in SUM149 xenograft NOD/SCID mouse model. In addition, Abraxane and Taxol showed similar efficacy to shrink the tumor size in orthotopic breast cancer NOD/SCID mouse model. However, Abraxane decreased breast CSCs frequency by 3- to 9-fold, while Taxol increased breast CSCs frequency in an orthotopic breast cancer NOD/SCID mouse model. Furthermore, Abraxane increased 3- to 15-fold intracellular uptake in both ALDH+ CSCs and differentiated ALDH- cells in comparison with Taxol, which provides a mechanism for Abraxane's superior efficacy to eliminate CSCs in comparison with Taxol. Our data suggest albumin nanoparticle Abraxane may have a broad implication to enhance drug's efficacy by eliminating breast cancer stem cells for treatment of metastatic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hebao Yuan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, North Campus Research Complex, Building 520, 1600 Huron Parkway, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Hongwei Guo
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, North Campus Research Complex, Building 520, 1600 Huron Parkway, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Xin Luan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, North Campus Research Complex, Building 520, 1600 Huron Parkway, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Miao He
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, North Campus Research Complex, Building 520, 1600 Huron Parkway, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Feng Li
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, North Campus Research Complex, Building 520, 1600 Huron Parkway, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Joseph Burnett
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, North Campus Research Complex, Building 520, 1600 Huron Parkway, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Nathan Truchan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, North Campus Research Complex, Building 520, 1600 Huron Parkway, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Duxin Sun
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Michigan, North Campus Research Complex, Building 520, 1600 Huron Parkway, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
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41
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Raudenska M, Balvan J, Fojtu M, Gumulec J, Masarik M. Unexpected therapeutic effects of cisplatin. Metallomics 2020; 11:1182-1199. [PMID: 31098602 DOI: 10.1039/c9mt00049f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Cisplatin is a widely used chemotherapeutic agent that is clinically approved to fight both carcinomas and sarcomas. It has relatively high efficiency in treating ovarian cancers and metastatic testicular cancers. It is generally accepted that the major mechanism of cisplatin anti-cancer action is DNA damage. However, cisplatin is also effective in metastatic cancers and should, therefore, affect slow-cycling cancer stem cells in some way. In this review, we focused on the alternative effects of cisplatin that can support a good therapeutic response. First, attention was paid to the effects of cisplatin at the cellular level such as changes in intracellular pH and cellular mechanical properties. Alternative cellular targets of cisplatin, and the effects of cisplatin on cancer cell metabolism and ER stress were also discussed. Furthermore, the impacts of cisplatin on the tumor microenvironment and in the whole organism context were reviewed. In this review, we try to reveal possible causes of the unexpected effectiveness of this anti-cancer drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Raudenska
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, CZ-625 00 Brno, Czech Republic.
| | - Jan Balvan
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, CZ-625 00 Brno, Czech Republic. and Department of Pathological Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, CZ-625 00 Brno, Czech Republic and Central European Institute of Technology, Brno University of Technology, Purkynova 656/123, CZ-612 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Michaela Fojtu
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, CZ-625 00 Brno, Czech Republic.
| | - Jaromir Gumulec
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, CZ-625 00 Brno, Czech Republic. and Department of Pathological Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, CZ-625 00 Brno, Czech Republic and Central European Institute of Technology, Brno University of Technology, Purkynova 656/123, CZ-612 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Michal Masarik
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, CZ-625 00 Brno, Czech Republic. and Department of Pathological Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, CZ-625 00 Brno, Czech Republic and BIOCEV, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Průmyslová 595, CZ-252 50 Vestec, Czech Republic
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42
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Cole AJ, Iyengar M, Panesso-Gómez S, O'Hayer P, Chan D, Delgoffe GM, Aird KM, Yoon E, Bai S, Buckanovich RJ. NFATC4 promotes quiescence and chemotherapy resistance in ovarian cancer. JCI Insight 2020; 5:131486. [PMID: 32182216 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.131486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2019] [Accepted: 03/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Development of chemotherapy resistance is a major problem in ovarian cancer. One understudied mechanism of chemoresistance is the induction of quiescence, a reversible nonproliferative state. Unfortunately, little is known about regulators of quiescence. Here, we identify the master transcription factor nuclear factor of activated T cells cytoplasmic 4 (NFATC4) as a regulator of quiescence in ovarian cancer. NFATC4 is enriched in ovarian cancer stem-like cells and correlates with decreased proliferation and poor prognosis. Treatment of cancer cells with cisplatin resulted in NFATC4 nuclear translocation and activation of the NFATC4 pathway, while inhibition of the pathway increased chemotherapy response. Induction of NFATC4 activity resulted in a marked decrease in proliferation, G0 cell cycle arrest, and chemotherapy resistance, both in vitro and in vivo. Finally, NFATC4 drove a quiescent phenotype in part via downregulation of MYC. Together, these data identify NFATC4 as a driver of quiescence and a potential new target to combat chemoresistance in ovarian cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander J Cole
- Department of Internal Medicine and Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Mangala Iyengar
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Santiago Panesso-Gómez
- Department of Internal Medicine and Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Patrick O'Hayer
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Daniel Chan
- Department of Internal Medicine and Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Greg M Delgoffe
- Tumor Microenvironment Center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center; and Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Katherine M Aird
- Department of Cellular & Molecular Physiology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Euisik Yoon
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Shoumei Bai
- Department of Internal Medicine and Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Ronald J Buckanovich
- Department of Internal Medicine and Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.,Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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43
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Martin-Hijano L, Sainz B. The Interactions Between Cancer Stem Cells and the Innate Interferon Signaling Pathway. Front Immunol 2020; 11:526. [PMID: 32296435 PMCID: PMC7136464 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Interferons (IFNs) form a family of cytokines with pleiotropic effects that modulate the immune response against multiple challenges like viral infections, autoimmune diseases, and cancer. While numerous anti-tumor activities have been described for IFNs, IFNs have also been associated with tumor growth and progression. The effect of IFNs on apoptosis, angiogenesis, tumor cell immunogenicity, and modulation of immune cells have been largely studied; however, less is known about their specific effects on cancer stem cells (CSCs). CSCs constitute a subpopulation of tumor cells endowed with stem-like properties including self-renewal, chemoresistance, tumorigenic capacity, and quiescence. This rare and unique subpopulation of cells is believed to be responsible for tumor maintenance, metastatic spread, and relapse. Thus, this review aims to summarize and discuss the current knowledge of the anti- and pro-CSCs effects of IFNs and also to highlight the need for further research on the interplay between IFNs and CSCs. Importantly, understanding this interplay will surely help to exploit the anti-tumor effects of IFNs, specifically those that target CSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Martin-Hijano
- Cancer Stem Cell and Tumor Microenvironment Group, Department of Biochemistry, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), Madrid, Spain
- Cancer Stem Cell and Tumor Microenvironment Group, Department of Cancer Biology, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas “Alberto Sols” (IIBM), CSIC-UAM, Madrid, Spain
- Cancer Stem Cell and Tumor Microenvironment Group, Chronic Diseases and Cancer—Area 3, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain
| | - Bruno Sainz
- Cancer Stem Cell and Tumor Microenvironment Group, Department of Biochemistry, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), Madrid, Spain
- Cancer Stem Cell and Tumor Microenvironment Group, Department of Cancer Biology, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas “Alberto Sols” (IIBM), CSIC-UAM, Madrid, Spain
- Cancer Stem Cell and Tumor Microenvironment Group, Chronic Diseases and Cancer—Area 3, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain
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Wei Y, Wang G, Wang C, Zhou Y, Zhang J, Xu K. Upregulation of DUSP14 Affects Proliferation, Invasion and Metastasis, Potentially via Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition and Is Associated with Poor Prognosis in Pancreatic Cancer. Cancer Manag Res 2020; 12:2097-2108. [PMID: 32256117 PMCID: PMC7093097 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s240040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2019] [Accepted: 02/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background There is a growing number of evidence which report the relationship of the dual-specificity phosphatases 14 (DUSP14) with physiological and pathological mechanisms in the human body. However, it is still not known what if any role DUSP14 plays in pancreatic cancer. Materials and Methods The study evaluates the levels of DUSP14 in the pancreatic cancer tissues and cell lines using Western blotting and qRT-PCR to assess the levels of the DUSP14 and epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) biomarkers. After the DUSP14 was blocked, the following assays were performed: colony formation, assessments of scratch wound and transwell to examine the effects of DUSP14 on the proliferation, migration and invasion of the pancreatic cancer. Results Results showed that there was a significant increase in the level of DUSP14 expression both in the pancreatic cancer tissues and cell lines. Experimental downregulation of DUSP14 induced the inhibition of the capacity of proliferation, migration and invasion of the pancreatic cancer cells. Western blotting analyses showed changes in the levels of expression of the EMT biomarkers, which helped to determine the function of DUSP14 in EMT. Conclusion In conclusion, we suggest that DUSP14 is a novel molecular target that can be used for the treatment of pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yajun Wei
- Department of Biliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Anhui Provincial Hospital Affiliated with Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230001, People's Republic of China
| | - Gang Wang
- Department of Biliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Anhui Provincial Hospital Affiliated with Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230001, People's Republic of China
| | - Cheng Wang
- Department of Biliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Anhui Provincial Hospital Affiliated with Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230001, People's Republic of China
| | - Yangming Zhou
- Department of Biliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Anhui Provincial Hospital Affiliated with Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230001, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingcheng Zhang
- Department of Biliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Anhui Provincial Hospital Affiliated with Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230001, People's Republic of China
| | - Kai Xu
- Department of Biliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Anhui Provincial Hospital Affiliated with Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230001, People's Republic of China
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45
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Immunotherapy: Newer Therapeutic Armamentarium against Cancer Stem Cells. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2020; 2020:3963561. [PMID: 32211043 PMCID: PMC7085385 DOI: 10.1155/2020/3963561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2019] [Accepted: 02/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Mounting evidence from the literature suggests the existence of a subpopulation of cancer stem cells (CSCs) in almost all types of human cancers. These CSCs possessing a self-renewal capacity inhabit primary tumors and are more defiant to standard antimitotic and molecularly targeted therapies which are used for eliminating actively proliferating and differentiated cancer cells. Clinical relevance of CSCs emerges from the fact that they are the root cause of therapy resistance, relapse, and metastasis. Earlier, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy were established as cancer treatment modalities, but recently, immunotherapy is also gaining importance in the management of various cancer patients, mostly those of the advanced stage. This review abridges potential off-target effects of inhibiting CSC self-renewal pathways on immune cells and some recent immunological studies specifically targeting CSCs on the basis of their antigen expression profile, even though molecular markers or antigens that have been described till date as expressed by cancer stem cells are not specifically expressed by these cells which is a major limitation to target CSCs. We propose that owing to CSC stemness property to mediate immunotherapy response, we can apply a combination therapy approach by targeting CSCs and tumor microenvironment (TME) along with conventional treatment strategies as an effective means to eradicate cancer cells.
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46
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Cole AJ, Fayomi AP, Anyaeche VI, Bai S, Buckanovich RJ. An evolving paradigm of cancer stem cell hierarchies: therapeutic implications. Theranostics 2020; 10:3083-3098. [PMID: 32194856 PMCID: PMC7053211 DOI: 10.7150/thno.41647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 01/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Over a decade of research has confirmed the critical role of cancer stem-like cells (CSCs) in tumor initiation, chemoresistance, and metastasis. Increasingly, CSC hierarchies have begun to be defined with some recurring themes. This includes evidence that these hierarchies are 'flexible,' with both cell state transitions and dedifferentiation events possible. These findings pose therapeutic hurdles and opportunities. Here, we review cancer stem cell hierarchies and their interactions with the tumor microenvironment. We also discuss the current therapeutic approaches designed to target CSC hierarchies and initial clinical trial results for CSC targeting agents. While cancer stem cell targeted therapies are still in their infancy, we are beginning to see encouraging results that suggest a positive outlook for CSC-targeting approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander J Cole
- Department of Internal Medicine and Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Adetunji P Fayomi
- Department of Internal Medicine and Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | | | - Shoumei Bai
- Department of Internal Medicine and Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Ronald J Buckanovich
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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47
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Triana-Martínez F, Loza MI, Domínguez E. Beyond Tumor Suppression: Senescence in Cancer Stemness and Tumor Dormancy. Cells 2020; 9:cells9020346. [PMID: 32028565 PMCID: PMC7072600 DOI: 10.3390/cells9020346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Here, we provide an overview of the importance of cellular fate in cancer as a group of diseases of abnormal cell growth. Tumor development and progression is a highly dynamic process, with several phases of evolution. The existing evidence about the origin and consequences of cancer cell fate specification (e.g., proliferation, senescence, stemness, dormancy, quiescence, and cell cycle re-entry) in the context of tumor formation and metastasis is discussed. The interplay between these dynamic tumor cell phenotypes, the microenvironment, and the immune system is also reviewed in relation to cancer. We focus on the role of senescence during cancer progression, with a special emphasis on its relationship with stemness and dormancy. Selective interventions on senescence and dormancy cell fates, including the specific targeting of cancer cell populations to prevent detrimental effects in aging and disease, are also reviewed. A new conceptual framework about the impact of synthetic lethal strategies by using senogenics and then senolytics is given, with the promise of future directions on innovative anticancer therapies.
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48
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Francescangeli F, Contavalli P, De Angelis ML, Careccia S, Signore M, Haas TL, Salaris F, Baiocchi M, Boe A, Giuliani A, Tcheremenskaia O, Pagliuca A, Guardiola O, Minchiotti G, Colace L, Ciardi A, D'Andrea V, La Torre F, Medema J, De Maria R, Zeuner A. A pre-existing population of ZEB2 + quiescent cells with stemness and mesenchymal features dictate chemoresistance in colorectal cancer. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2020; 39:2. [PMID: 31910865 PMCID: PMC6947904 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-019-1505-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Accepted: 12/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Background Quiescent/slow cycling cells have been identified in several tumors and correlated with therapy resistance. However, the features of chemoresistant populations and the molecular factors linking quiescence to chemoresistance are largely unknown. Methods A population of chemoresistant quiescent/slow cycling cells was isolated through PKH26 staining (which allows to separate cells on the basis of their proliferation rate) from colorectal cancer (CRC) xenografts and subjected to global gene expression and pathway activation analyses. Factors expressed by the quiescent/slow cycling population were analyzed through lentiviral overexpression approaches for their ability to induce a dormant chemoresistant state both in vitro and in mouse xenografts. The correlation between quiescence-associated factors, CRC consensus molecular subtype and cancer prognosis was analyzed in large patient datasets. Results Untreated colorectal tumors contain a population of quiescent/slow cycling cells with stem cell features (quiescent cancer stem cells, QCSCs) characterized by a predetermined mesenchymal-like chemoresistant phenotype. QCSCs expressed increased levels of ZEB2, a transcription factor involved in stem cell plasticity and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and of antiapototic factors pCRAF and pASK1. ZEB2 overexpression upregulated pCRAF/pASK1 levels resulting in increased chemoresistance, enrichment of cells with stemness/EMT traits and proliferative slowdown of tumor xenografts. In parallel, chemotherapy treatment of tumor xenografts induced the prevalence of QCSCs with a stemness/EMT phenotype and activation of the ZEB2/pCRAF/pASK1 axis, resulting in a chemotherapy-unresponsive state. In CRC patients, increased ZEB2 levels correlated with worse relapse-free survival and were strongly associated to the consensus molecular subtype 4 (CMS4) characterized by dismal prognosis, decreased proliferative rates and upregulation of EMT genes. Conclusions These results show that chemotherapy-naive tumors contain a cell population characterized by a coordinated program of chemoresistance, quiescence, stemness and EMT. Such population becomes prevalent upon drug treatment and is responsible for chemotherapy resistance, thus representing a key target for more effective therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Francescangeli
- Department of Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Contavalli
- Department of Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Laura De Angelis
- Department of Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Careccia
- Institute of General Pathology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo Francesco Vito 1, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Michele Signore
- RPPA Unit, Proteomics Area, Core Facilities, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Tobias Longin Haas
- Institute of General Pathology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo Francesco Vito 1, 00168, Rome, Italy.,Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Largo Agostino Gemelli 8, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Federico Salaris
- Department of Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Marta Baiocchi
- Department of Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Boe
- Core Facilities, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Giuliani
- Environment and Health Department, Istituto Superiore di Sanita, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Olga Tcheremenskaia
- Environment and Health Department, Istituto Superiore di Sanita, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Alfredo Pagliuca
- Department of Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Ombretta Guardiola
- Stem Cell Fate Laboratory, Institute of Genetics and Biophysics "A. Buzzati Traverso", CNR,Via Pietro Castellino 111, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Gabriella Minchiotti
- Stem Cell Fate Laboratory, Institute of Genetics and Biophysics "A. Buzzati Traverso", CNR,Via Pietro Castellino 111, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Lidia Colace
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Policlinico Umberto I/Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Ciardi
- Department of Surgery "Pietro Valdoni", Policlinico Umberto I/Sapienza University of Rome, via Lancisi 2, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Vito D'Andrea
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Policlinico Umberto I/Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Filippo La Torre
- Surgical Sciences and Emergency Department, Policlinico Umberto I/Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - JanPaul Medema
- Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and Radiobiology, Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Academic Medical Center, Meibergdreef 9, 1105, AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ruggero De Maria
- Institute of General Pathology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo Francesco Vito 1, 00168, Rome, Italy. .,Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Largo Agostino Gemelli 8, 00168, Rome, Italy.
| | - Ann Zeuner
- Department of Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy.
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Sharma NS, Gnamlin P, Durden B, Gupta VK, Kesh K, Garrido VT, Dudeja V, Saluja A, Banerjee S. Long non-coding RNA GAS5 acts as proliferation "brakes" in CD133+ cells responsible for tumor recurrence. Oncogenesis 2019; 8:68. [PMID: 31740660 PMCID: PMC6861230 DOI: 10.1038/s41389-019-0177-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2019] [Revised: 10/23/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Presence of quiescent, therapy evasive population often described as cancer stem cells (CSC) or tumor initiating cells (TIC) is often attributed to extreme metastasis and tumor recurrence. This population is typically enriched in a tumor as a result of microenvironment or chemotherapy induced stress. The TIC population adapts to this stress by turning on cell cycle arrest programs that is a “fail-safe” mechanism to prevent expansion of malignant cells to prevent further injury. Upon removal of the “stress” conditions, these cells restart their cell cycle and regain their proliferative nature thereby resulting in tumor relapse. Growth Arrest Specific 5 (GAS5) is a long-non-coding RNA that plays a vital role in this process. In pancreatic cancer, CD133+ population is a typical representation of the TIC population that is responsible for tumor relapse. In this study, we show for the first time that emergence of CD133+ population coincides with upregulation of GAS5, that reprograms the cell cycle to slow proliferation by inhibiting GR mediated cell cycle control. The CD133+ population further routed metabolites like glucose to shunt pathways like pentose phosphate pathway, that were predominantly biosynthetic in spite of being quiescent in nature but did not use it immediately for nucleic acid synthesis. Upon inhibiting GAS5, these cells were released from their growth arrest and restarted the nucleic acid synthesis and proliferation. Our study thus showed that GAS5 acts as a molecular switch for regulating quiescence and growth arrest in CD133+ population, that is responsible for aggressive biology of pancreatic tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikita S Sharma
- Department of Surgery, Miller school of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Prisca Gnamlin
- Department of Surgery, Miller school of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Brittany Durden
- Department of Surgery, Miller school of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Vineet K Gupta
- Department of Surgery, Miller school of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Kousik Kesh
- Department of Surgery, Miller school of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Vanessa T Garrido
- Department of Surgery, Miller school of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Vikas Dudeja
- Department of Surgery, Miller school of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA.,Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Ashok Saluja
- Department of Surgery, Miller school of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA.,Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Sulagna Banerjee
- Department of Surgery, Miller school of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA. .,Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA.
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Breast Cancer Stem Cells as Drivers of Tumor Chemoresistance, Dormancy and Relapse: New Challenges and Therapeutic Opportunities. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11101569. [PMID: 31619007 PMCID: PMC6826533 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11101569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2019] [Revised: 10/10/2019] [Accepted: 10/11/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most frequent cancer among women worldwide. Therapeutic strategies to prevent or treat metastatic disease are still inadequate although great progress has been made in treating early-stage breast cancer. Cancer stem-like cells (CSCs) that are endowed with high plasticity and self-renewal properties have been shown to play a key role in breast cancer development, progression, and metastasis. A subpopulation of CSCs that combines tumor-initiating capacity and a dormant/quiescent/slow cycling status is present throughout the clinical history of breast cancer patients. Dormant/quiescent/slow cycling CSCs are a key component of tumor heterogeneity and they are responsible for chemoresistance, tumor migration, and metastatic dormancy, defined as the ability of CSCs to survive in target organs and generate metastasis up to two decades after diagnosis. Understanding the strategies that are used by CSCs to resist conventional and targeted therapies, to interact with their niche, to escape immune surveillance, and finally to awaken from dormancy is of key importance to prevent and treat metastatic cancer. This review summarizes the current understanding of mechanisms involved in CSCs chemoresistance, dissemination, and metastasis in breast cancer, with a particular focus on dormant cells. Finally, we discuss how advancements in the detection, molecular understanding, and targeting of dormant CSCs will likely open new therapeutic avenues for breast cancer treatment.
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