1
|
Gerashchenko T, Frolova A, Patysheva M, Fedorov A, Stakheyeva M, Denisov E, Cherdyntseva N. Breast Cancer Immune Landscape: Interplay Between Systemic and Local Immunity. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2024; 8:e2400140. [PMID: 38727796 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202400140] [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: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is one of the most common malignancies in women worldwide. Numerous studies in immuno-oncology and successful trials of immunotherapy have demonstrated the causal role of the immune system in cancer pathogenesis. The interaction between the tumor and the immune system is known to have a dual nature. Despite cytotoxic lymphocyte activity against transformed cells, a tumor can escape immune surveillance and leverage chronic inflammation to maintain its own development. Research on antitumor immunity primarily focuses on the role of the tumor microenvironment, whereas the systemic immune response beyond the tumor site is described less thoroughly. Here, a comprehensive review of the formation of the immune profile in breast cancer patients is offered. The interplay between systemic and local immune reactions as self-sustaining mechanism of tumor progression is described and the functional activity of the main cell populations related to innate and adaptive immunity is discussed. Additionally, the interaction between different functional levels of the immune system and their contribution to the development of the pro- or anti-tumor immune response in BC is highlighted. The presented data can potentially inform the development of new immunotherapy strategies in the treatment of patients with BC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana Gerashchenko
- Laboratory of Cancer Progression Biology, Cancer Research Institute, Tomsk National Research Medical Center, Russian Academy of Sciences, Kooperativny Str. 5, Tomsk, 634009, Russia
| | - Anastasia Frolova
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Immunology, Cancer Research Institute, Tomsk National Researc, Medical Center, Russian Academy of Sciences, Kooperativny Str. 5, Tomsk, 634009, Russia
- Tomsk State University, 36 Lenin Ave., Tomsk, 634050, Russia
| | - Marina Patysheva
- Laboratory of Cancer Progression Biology, Cancer Research Institute, Tomsk National Research Medical Center, Russian Academy of Sciences, Kooperativny Str. 5, Tomsk, 634009, Russia
| | - Anton Fedorov
- Laboratory of Cancer Progression Biology, Cancer Research Institute, Tomsk National Research Medical Center, Russian Academy of Sciences, Kooperativny Str. 5, Tomsk, 634009, Russia
| | - Marina Stakheyeva
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Immunology, Cancer Research Institute, Tomsk National Researc, Medical Center, Russian Academy of Sciences, Kooperativny Str. 5, Tomsk, 634009, Russia
| | - Evgeny Denisov
- Laboratory of Cancer Progression Biology, Cancer Research Institute, Tomsk National Research Medical Center, Russian Academy of Sciences, Kooperativny Str. 5, Tomsk, 634009, Russia
| | - Nadezda Cherdyntseva
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Immunology, Cancer Research Institute, Tomsk National Researc, Medical Center, Russian Academy of Sciences, Kooperativny Str. 5, Tomsk, 634009, Russia
- Tomsk State University, 36 Lenin Ave., Tomsk, 634050, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Wilby AJ, Cabral S, Zoghi N, Howell SJ, Farnie G, Harrison H. A novel preclinical model of the normal human breast. J Mammary Gland Biol Neoplasia 2024; 29:9. [PMID: 38695983 PMCID: PMC11065935 DOI: 10.1007/s10911-024-09562-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Improved screening and treatment have decreased breast cancer mortality, although incidence continues to rise. Women at increased risk of breast cancer can be offered risk reducing treatments, such as tamoxifen, but this has not been shown to reduce breast cancer mortality. New, more efficacious, risk-reducing agents are needed. The identification of novel candidates for prevention is hampered by a lack of good preclinical models. Current patient derived in vitro and in vivo models cannot fully recapitulate the complexities of the human tissue, lacking human extracellular matrix, stroma, and immune cells, all of which are known to influence therapy response. Here we describe a normal breast explant model utilising a tuneable hydrogel which maintains epithelial proliferation, hormone receptor expression, and residency of T cells and macrophages over 7 days. Unlike other organotypic tissue cultures which are often limited by hyper-proliferation, loss of hormone signalling, and short treatment windows (< 48h), our model shows that tissue remains viable over 7 days with none of these early changes. This offers a powerful and unique opportunity to model the normal breast and study changes in response to various risk factors, such as breast density and hormone exposure. Further validation of the model, using samples from patients undergoing preventive therapies, will hopefully confirm this to be a valuable tool, allowing us to test novel agents for breast cancer risk reduction preclinically.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anthony J Wilby
- Division of Cancer Sciences, Manchester Cancer Research Centre, University of Manchester, Oglesby Cancer Research Building, Wilmslow Road, Manchester, M20 4GJ, United Kingdom
- Manchester Breast Centre, University of Manchester, Wilmslow Road, Manchester, M20 4GJ, United Kingdom
| | - Sara Cabral
- Division of Cancer Sciences, Manchester Cancer Research Centre, University of Manchester, Oglesby Cancer Research Building, Wilmslow Road, Manchester, M20 4GJ, United Kingdom
- Manchester Breast Centre, University of Manchester, Wilmslow Road, Manchester, M20 4GJ, United Kingdom
- Henry Royce Institute, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9PL, United Kingdom
| | - Nastaran Zoghi
- Department of Materials & Institute of Biotechnology, University of Manchester, Manchester, M1 7DN, United Kingdom
| | - Sacha J Howell
- Division of Cancer Sciences, Manchester Cancer Research Centre, University of Manchester, Oglesby Cancer Research Building, Wilmslow Road, Manchester, M20 4GJ, United Kingdom
- Manchester Breast Centre, University of Manchester, Wilmslow Road, Manchester, M20 4GJ, United Kingdom
- NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, 29 Grafton St, Manchester, M13 9WU, United Kingdom
- The Nightingale and Prevent Breast Cancer Centre, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, M23 9LT, United Kingdom
| | - Gillian Farnie
- Cancer Research Horizons, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, Manchester, NW1 1AT, United Kingdom
| | - Hannah Harrison
- Division of Cancer Sciences, Manchester Cancer Research Centre, University of Manchester, Oglesby Cancer Research Building, Wilmslow Road, Manchester, M20 4GJ, United Kingdom.
- Manchester Breast Centre, University of Manchester, Wilmslow Road, Manchester, M20 4GJ, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Kotsifaki A, Maroulaki S, Armakolas A. Exploring the Immunological Profile in Breast Cancer: Recent Advances in Diagnosis and Prognosis through Circulating Tumor Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4832. [PMID: 38732051 PMCID: PMC11084220 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25094832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
This review offers a comprehensive exploration of the intricate immunological landscape of breast cancer (BC), focusing on recent advances in diagnosis and prognosis through the analysis of circulating tumor cells (CTCs). Positioned within the broader context of BC research, it underscores the pivotal role of the immune system in shaping the disease's progression. The primary objective of this investigation is to synthesize current knowledge on the immunological aspects of BC, with a particular emphasis on the diagnostic and prognostic potential offered by CTCs. This review adopts a thorough examination of the relevant literature, incorporating recent breakthroughs in the field. The methodology section succinctly outlines the approach, with a specific focus on CTC analysis and its implications for BC diagnosis and prognosis. Through this review, insights into the dynamic interplay between the immune system and BC are highlighted, with a specific emphasis on the role of CTCs in advancing diagnostic methodologies and refining prognostic assessments. Furthermore, this review presents objective and substantiated results, contributing to a deeper understanding of the immunological complexity in BC. In conclusion, this investigation underscores the significance of exploring the immunological profile of BC patients, providing valuable insights into novel advances in diagnosis and prognosis through the utilization of CTCs. The objective presentation of findings emphasizes the crucial role of the immune system in BC dynamics, thereby opening avenues for enhanced clinical management strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Athanasios Armakolas
- Physiology Laboratory, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.K.); (S.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Abdul Manap AS, Wisham AA, Wong FW, Ahmad Najmi HR, Ng ZF, Diba RS. Mapping the function of MicroRNAs as a critical regulator of tumor-immune cell communication in breast cancer and potential treatment strategies. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1390704. [PMID: 38726321 PMCID: PMC11079208 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1390704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Among women, breast cancer ranks as the most prevalent form of cancer, and the presence of metastases significantly reduces prognosis and diminishes overall survival rates. Gaining insights into the biological mechanisms governing the conversion of cancer cells, their subsequent spread to other areas of the body, and the immune system's monitoring of tumor growth will contribute to the advancement of more efficient and targeted therapies. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a critical role in the interaction between tumor cells and immune cells, facilitating tumor cells' evasion of the immune system and promoting cancer progression. Additionally, miRNAs also influence metastasis formation, including the establishment of metastatic sites and the transformation of tumor cells into migratory phenotypes. Specifically, dysregulated expression of these genes has been associated with abnormal expression of oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes, thereby facilitating tumor development. This study aims to provide a concise overview of the significance and function of miRNAs in breast cancer, focusing on their involvement as tumor suppressors in the antitumor immune response and as oncogenes in metastasis formation. Furthermore, miRNAs hold tremendous potential as targets for gene therapy due to their ability to modulate specific pathways that can either promote or suppress carcinogenesis. This perspective highlights the latest strategies developed for miRNA-based therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aimi Syamima Abdul Manap
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Veterinary Medicine, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Fei Wen Wong
- Faculty of Biosciences, MAHSA University, Kuala Langat, Selangor, Malaysia
| | | | - Zhi Fei Ng
- Faculty of Biosciences, MAHSA University, Kuala Langat, Selangor, Malaysia
| | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Białek M, Lepionka T, Wojtak W, Ruszczyńska A, Bulska E, Czauderna M, Białek A. Splenic Elemental Composition of Breast Cancer-Suffering Rats Supplemented with Pomegranate Seed Oil and Bitter Melon Extract. Molecules 2024; 29:1942. [PMID: 38731433 PMCID: PMC11085740 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29091942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate how dietary modifications with pomegranate seed oil (PSO) and bitter melon aqueous extract (BME) affect mineral content in the spleen of rats both under normal physiological conditions and with coexisting mammary tumorigenesis. The diet of Sprague-Dawley female rats was supplemented either with PSO or with BME, or with a combination for 21 weeks. A chemical carcinogen (7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene) was applied intragastrically to induce mammary tumors. In the spleen of rats, the selected elements were determined with a quadrupole mass spectrometer with inductively coupled plasma ionization (ICP-MS). ANOVA was used to evaluate differences in elemental composition among experimental groups. Multivariate statistical methods were used to discover whether some subtle dependencies exist between experimental factors and thus influence the element content. Experimental factors affected the splenic levels of macroelements, except for potassium. Both diet modification and the cancerogenic process resulted in significant changes in the content of Fe, Se, Co, Cr, Ni, Al, Sr, Pb, Cd, B, and Tl in rat spleen. Chemometric analysis revealed the greatest impact of the ongoing carcinogenic process on the mineral composition of the spleen. The obtained results may contribute to a better understanding of peripheral immune organ functioning, especially during the neoplastic process, and thus may help develop anticancer prevention and treatment strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Małgorzata Białek
- The Kielanowski Institute of Animal Physiology and Nutrition, Polish Academy of Sciences, Instytucka 3, 05-110 Jabłonna, Poland; (W.W.); (M.C.); (A.B.)
| | - Tomasz Lepionka
- The Biological Threats Identification and Countermeasure Center of the General Karol Kaczkowski Military Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Lubelska 4 St., 24-100 Puławy, Poland;
| | - Wiktoria Wojtak
- The Kielanowski Institute of Animal Physiology and Nutrition, Polish Academy of Sciences, Instytucka 3, 05-110 Jabłonna, Poland; (W.W.); (M.C.); (A.B.)
| | - Anna Ruszczyńska
- Biological and Chemical Research Centre, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Warsaw, Żwirki i Wigury 101, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland; (A.R.); (E.B.)
| | - Ewa Bulska
- Biological and Chemical Research Centre, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Warsaw, Żwirki i Wigury 101, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland; (A.R.); (E.B.)
| | - Marian Czauderna
- The Kielanowski Institute of Animal Physiology and Nutrition, Polish Academy of Sciences, Instytucka 3, 05-110 Jabłonna, Poland; (W.W.); (M.C.); (A.B.)
| | - Agnieszka Białek
- The Kielanowski Institute of Animal Physiology and Nutrition, Polish Academy of Sciences, Instytucka 3, 05-110 Jabłonna, Poland; (W.W.); (M.C.); (A.B.)
- School of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Economics and Human Sciences in Warsaw, Okopowa 59, 01-043 Warsaw, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Safaei S, Fadaee M, Farzam OR, Yari A, Poursaei E, Aslan C, Samemaleki S, Shanehbandi D, Baradaran B, Kazemi T. Exploring the dynamic interplay between exosomes and the immune tumor microenvironment: implications for breast cancer progression and therapeutic strategies. Breast Cancer Res 2024; 26:57. [PMID: 38553754 PMCID: PMC10981336 DOI: 10.1186/s13058-024-01810-z] [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: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer continues to pose a substantial worldwide health concern, demanding a thorough comprehension of the complex interaction between cancerous cells and the immune system. Recent studies have shown the significant function of exosomes in facilitating intercellular communication and their participation in the advancement of cancer. Tumor-derived exosomes have been identified as significant regulators in the context of breast cancer, playing a crucial role in modulating immune cell activity and contributing to the advancement of the illness. This study aims to investigate the many effects of tumor-derived exosomes on immune cells in the setting of breast cancer. Specifically, we will examine their role in influencing immune cell polarization, facilitating immunological evasion, and modifying the tumor microenvironment. Furthermore, we explore the nascent domain of exosomes produced from immune cells and their prospective involvement in the prevention of breast cancer. This paper focuses on new research that emphasizes the immunomodulatory characteristics of exosomes produced from immune cells. It also explores the possibility of these exosomes as therapeutic agents or biomarkers for the early identification and prevention of breast cancer. The exploration of the reciprocal connections between exosomes formed from tumors and immune cells, together with the rising significance of exosomes derived from immune cells, presents a potential avenue for the advancement of novel approaches in the field of breast cancer therapy and prevention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sahar Safaei
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Gholghasht Ave, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Manouchehr Fadaee
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Gholghasht Ave, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Omid Rahbar Farzam
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Gholghasht Ave, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Amirhossein Yari
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Gholghasht Ave, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Biology, Tabriz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Elham Poursaei
- Biotechnology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Cynthia Aslan
- Research Center for Integrative Medicine in Aging, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Sahar Samemaleki
- Department of Immunology, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Dariush Shanehbandi
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Gholghasht Ave, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Behzad Baradaran
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Gholghasht Ave, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Tohid Kazemi
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Gholghasht Ave, Tabriz, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Grupińska J, Budzyń M, Janowski J, Brzeziński J, Gryszczyńska B, Leporowska E, Formanowicz D, Kycler W. Potential of the postoperative lymphocyte-to-monocyte and monocyte-to-red blood cell ratio in predicting locoregional and distant metastases after breast cancer resection - Retrospective study. Adv Med Sci 2024; 69:103-112. [PMID: 38394965 DOI: 10.1016/j.advms.2024.02.006] [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: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Breast cancer is the most common malignancy with high recurrence and mortality rates in women. There are still insufficient biomarkers to predict disease prognosis. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the clinical significance of postoperative hematologic parameters and their derivatives in patients with breast cancer who underwent tumor resection. PATIENTS AND METHODS The clinicopathological and laboratory data of 90 female breast cancer patients who underwent surgical treatment in the Greater Poland Cancer Center in Poznan from December 2015 to November 2017 were retrospectively analyzed. Postoperative hematologic parameters, including neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), monocyte-to-red blood cell ratio (MRR), lymphocyte-to-red blood cell ratio (LRR), platelet-to-red blood cell ratio (PRR) were evaluated in recurrence and non-recurrence group. Receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to assess the optimal cutoff value of postoperative hematologic parameters for tumor recurrence. The association of postoperative hematologic parameters with disease-free survival (DFS) was investigated by the Kaplan-Meier method and Cox regression analysis. RESULTS Patients with local, regional, or distant metastases accounted for 14% of the total. The postoperative monocyte count and MRR were significantly elevated, whereas postoperative LMR was statistically decreased in the recurrence group. Univariate and multivariate Cox analysis revealed that postoperative LMR ≤3.044 and postoperative MRR >0.1398 were associated with significantly shorter DFS. CONCLUSION Our results revealed that both postoperative LMR and MRR are independent predictors of DFS in breast cancer patients. Large-scale prospective investigations are needed to validate our findings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Grupińska
- Chair and Department of Medical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland; Hospital Pharmacy, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Poznan, Poland.
| | - Magdalena Budzyń
- Chair and Department of Medical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Jakub Janowski
- Department of Oncological Surgery of Gastrointestinal Diseases, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Poznan, Poland
| | - Jacek Brzeziński
- Department of Oncological Surgery of Gastrointestinal Diseases, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Poznan, Poland
| | - Bogna Gryszczyńska
- Chair and Department of Medical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Ewa Leporowska
- Department of Laboratory Diagnostics, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Poznan, Poland
| | - Dorota Formanowicz
- Chair and Department of Medical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Witold Kycler
- Department of Oncological Surgery of Gastrointestinal Diseases, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Poznan, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Ravi K, Manoharan TJM, Wang KC, Pockaj B, Nikkhah M. Engineered 3D ex vivo models to recapitulate the complex stromal and immune interactions within the tumor microenvironment. Biomaterials 2024; 305:122428. [PMID: 38147743 PMCID: PMC11098715 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2023.122428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
Cancer thrives in a complex environment where interactions between cellular and acellular components, surrounding the tumor, play a crucial role in disease development and progression. Despite significant progress in cancer research, the mechanism driving tumor growth and therapeutic outcomes remains elusive. Two-dimensional (2D) cell culture assays and in vivo animal models are commonly used in cancer research and therapeutic testing. However, these models suffer from numerous shortcomings including lack of key features of the tumor microenvironment (TME) & cellular composition, cost, and ethical clearance. To that end, there is an increased interest in incorporating and elucidating the influence of TME on cancer progression. Advancements in 3D-engineered ex vivo models, leveraging biomaterials and microengineering technologies, have provided an unprecedented ability to reconstruct native-like bioengineered cancer models to study the heterotypic interactions of TME with a spatiotemporal organization. These bioengineered cancer models have shown excellent capabilities to bridge the gap between oversimplified 2D systems and animal models. In this review article, we primarily provide an overview of the immune and stromal cellular components of the TME and then discuss the latest state-of-the-art 3D-engineered ex vivo platforms aiming to recapitulate the complex TME features. The engineered TME model, discussed herein, are categorized into three main sections according to the cellular interactions within TME: (i) Tumor-Stromal interactions, (ii) Tumor-Immune interactions, and (iii) Complex TME interactions. Finally, we will conclude the article with a perspective on how these models can be instrumental for cancer translational studies and therapeutic testing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kalpana Ravi
- School of Biological and Health Systems Engineering (SBHSE), Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, 85287, USA
| | | | - Kuei-Chun Wang
- School of Biological and Health Systems Engineering (SBHSE), Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, 85287, USA
| | | | - Mehdi Nikkhah
- School of Biological and Health Systems Engineering (SBHSE), Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, 85287, USA; Biodesign Virginia G. Piper Center for Personalized Diagnostics, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, 85287, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Kotsifaki A, Alevizopoulos N, Dimopoulou V, Armakolas A. Unveiling the Immune Microenvironment's Role in Breast Cancer: A Glimpse into Promising Frontiers. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15332. [PMID: 37895012 PMCID: PMC10607694 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242015332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC), one of the most widespread and devastating diseases affecting women worldwide, presents a significant public health challenge. This review explores the emerging frontiers of research focused on deciphering the intricate interplay between BC cells and the immune microenvironment. Understanding the role of the immune system in BC is critical as it holds promise for novel therapeutic approaches and precision medicine strategies. This review delves into the current literature regarding the immune microenvironment's contribution to BC initiation, progression, and metastasis. It examines the complex mechanisms by which BC cells interact with various immune cell populations, including tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). Furthermore, this review highlights the impact of immune-related factors, such as cytokines and immune checkpoint molecules. Additionally, this comprehensive analysis sheds light on the potential biomarkers associated with the immune response in BC, enabling early diagnosis and prognostic assessment. The therapeutic implications of targeting the immune microenvironment are also explored, encompassing immunotherapeutic strategies and combination therapies to enhance treatment efficacy. The significance of this review lies in its potential to pave the way for novel therapeutic interventions, providing clinicians and researchers with essential knowledge to design targeted and personalized treatment regimens for BC patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Athanasios Armakolas
- Physiology Laboratory, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (A.K.); (N.A.); (V.D.)
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Amens JN, Bahçecioğlu G, Dwyer K, Yue XS, Stack MS, Hilliard TS, Zorlutuna P. Maternal obesity driven changes in collagen linearity of breast extracellular matrix induces invasive mammary epithelial cell phenotype. Biomaterials 2023; 297:122110. [PMID: 37062214 PMCID: PMC10192205 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2023.122110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023]
Abstract
Obesity has been linked with numerous health issues as well as an increased risk of breast cancer. Although effects of direct obesity in patient outcomes is widely studied, effects of exposure to obesity-related systemic influences in utero have been overlooked. In this study, we investigated the effect of multigenerational obesity on epithelial cell migration and invasion using decellularized breast tissues explanted from normal female mouse pups from a diet induced multigenerational obesity mouse model. We first studied the effect of multigenerational diet on the mechanical properties, adipocyte size, and collagen structure of these mouse breast tissues, and then, examined the migration and invasion behavior of normal (KTB-21) and cancerous (MDA-MB-231) human mammary epithelial cells on the decellularized matrices from each diet group. Breast tissues of mice whose dams had been fed with high-fat diet exhibited larger adipocytes and thicker and curvier collagen fibers, but only slightly elevated elastic modulus and inflammatory cytokine levels. MDA-MB-231 cancer cell motility and invasion were significantly greater on the decellularized matrices from mice whose dams were fed with high-fat diet. A similar trend was observed with normal KTB-21 cells. Our results showed that the collagen curvature was the dominating factor on this enhanced motility and stretching the matrices to equalize the collagen fiber linearity of the matrices ameliorated the observed increase in cell migration and invasion in the mice that were exposed to a high-fat diet in utero. Previous studies indicated an increase in serum leptin concentration for those children born to an obese mother. We generated extracellular matrices using primary fibroblasts exposed to various concentrations of leptin. This produced curvier ECM and increased breast cancer cell motility for cells seeded on the decellularized ECM generated with increasing leptin concentration. Our study shows that exposure to obesity in utero is influential in determining the extracellular matrix structure, and that the resultant change in collagen curvature is a critical factor in regulating the migration and invasion of breast cancer cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jensen N Amens
- Department of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, 46556, USA
| | - Gökhan Bahçecioğlu
- Department of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, 46556, USA
| | - Kiera Dwyer
- Department of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, 46556, USA
| | - Xiaoshan S Yue
- Department of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, 46556, USA
| | - M Sharon Stack
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, 46556, USA; Harper Cancer Research Institute, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, 46556, USA
| | - Tyvette S Hilliard
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, 46556, USA; Harper Cancer Research Institute, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, 46556, USA
| | - Pinar Zorlutuna
- Department of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, 46556, USA; Bioengineering Graduate Program, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, 46556, USA; Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, 46556, USA; Harper Cancer Research Institute, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, 46556, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Lu Y, Zhang Q, Wang J, Zhang L. Characteristics and postoperative dynamic changes in circulating CD4 + helper T lymphocytes in patients with breast cancer. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1118346. [PMID: 36925914 PMCID: PMC10011473 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1118346] [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: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Circulating CD4+ helper T cell (Th) subsets provide potentially important information on disease progression in several cancers. In this study, we explored the characteristics and postoperative dynamic changes in circulating CD4+Th subsets in patients with breast cancer. Methods Circulating CD4+Th subsets, including CD4+ naive T cells (Tn), CD4+ central memory T cells (Tcm), CD4+ effector memory T cells (Tem), CD4+CD57+T, and CD4+PD-1+T, were detected with multiparameter flow cytometry. T-test and Wilcoxon rank-sum test were used to compare differences between groups for normally and non-normally distributed continuous variables, respectively. Postoperative dynamic changes in CD4+Th subsets were assessed using the paired-sample rank-sum test. Results Seventy-five patients with invasive breast cancer and fifty-three patients with benign breast tumors were enrolled. Compared with that in patients with benign tumors, the proportion of CD4+Tn in patients with breast cancer patients decreased, whereas the proportion and absolute number of CD4+CD57+T and CD4+PD-1+T increased. Moreover, the proportion of CD4+PD-1+T was correlated with the clinicopathology of breast cancer. After tumor resection, the proportion and absolute number of CD4+Tcm significantly decreased, while those of CD4+Tem significantly increased, compared with preoperative values. Tumor resection caused significant changes in the proportion and absolute number of CD4+CD57+T and CD4+PD-1+ T, both of which showed significant decreases. Discussion We found significant changes in circulating CD4+Th subsets in patients with breast cancer. Additionally, complete tumor resection can benefit the patient as it balances the patient's immunosuppression and immune stress and improves the immune exhaustion and immunosenescence states.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan Lu
- Clinical Laboratory, DongYang People's Hospital, Dongyang, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qiaohong Zhang
- Clinical Laboratory, DongYang People's Hospital, Dongyang, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jiang Wang
- Department of Breast Surgery, DongYang People's Hospital, Dongyang, Zhejiang, China
| | - Longyi Zhang
- Clinical Laboratory, DongYang People's Hospital, Dongyang, Zhejiang, China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Jungles KM, Holcomb EA, Pearson AN, Jungles KR, Bishop CR, Pierce LJ, Green MD, Speers CW. Updates in combined approaches of radiotherapy and immune checkpoint inhibitors for the treatment of breast cancer. Front Oncol 2022; 12:1022542. [PMID: 36387071 PMCID: PMC9643771 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1022542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most prevalent non-skin cancer diagnosed in females and developing novel therapeutic strategies to improve patient outcomes is crucial. The immune system plays an integral role in the body’s response to breast cancer and modulating this immune response through immunotherapy is a promising therapeutic option. Although immune checkpoint inhibitors were recently approved for the treatment of breast cancer patients, not all patients respond to immune checkpoint inhibitors as a monotherapy, highlighting the need to better understand the biology underlying patient response. Additionally, as radiotherapy is a critical component of breast cancer treatment, understanding the interplay of radiation and immune checkpoint inhibitors will be vital as recent studies suggest that combined therapies may induce synergistic effects in preclinical models of breast cancer. This review will discuss the mechanisms supporting combined approaches with radiotherapy and immune checkpoint inhibitors for the treatment of breast cancer. Moreover, this review will analyze the current clinical trials examining combined approaches of radiotherapy, immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy. Finally, this review will evaluate data regarding treatment tolerance and potential biomarkers for these emerging therapies aimed at improving breast cancer outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kassidy M. Jungles
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Erin A. Holcomb
- Graduate Program in Immunology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Ashley N. Pearson
- Graduate Program in Immunology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Kalli R. Jungles
- Department of Biology, Saint Mary’s College, Notre Dame, IN, United States
| | - Caroline R. Bishop
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Lori J. Pierce
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Michael D. Green
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Veterans Affairs Ann Arbor Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- *Correspondence: Michael D. Green, ; Corey W. Speers,
| | - Corey W. Speers
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Rogel Cancer Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University, Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Cleveland, OH, United States
- *Correspondence: Michael D. Green, ; Corey W. Speers,
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Thompson KJ, Leon-Ferre RA, Sinnwell JP, Zahrieh D, Suman V, Metzger F, Asad S, Stover D, Carey L, Sikov W, Ingle J, Liu M, Carter J, Klee E, Weinshilboum R, Boughey J, Wang L, Couch F, Goetz M, Kalari K. Luminal androgen receptor breast cancer subtype and investigation of the microenvironment and neoadjuvant chemotherapy response. NAR Cancer 2022; 4:zcac018. [PMID: 35734391 PMCID: PMC9204893 DOI: 10.1093/narcan/zcac018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most aggressive breast cancer subtype with low overall survival rates and high molecular heterogeneity; therefore, few targeted therapies are available. The luminal androgen receptor (LAR) is the most consistently identified TNBC subtype, but the clinical utility has yet to be established. Here, we constructed a novel genomic classifier, LAR-Sig, that distinguishes the LAR subtype from other TNBC subtypes and provide evidence that it is a clinically distinct disease. A meta-analysis of seven TNBC datasets (n = 1086 samples) from neoadjuvant clinical trials demonstrated that LAR patients have significantly reduced response (pCR) rates than non-LAR TNBC patients (odds ratio = 2.11, 95% CI: 1.33, 2.89). Moreover, deconvolution of the tumor microenvironment confirmed an enrichment of luminal epithelium corresponding with a decrease in basal and myoepithelium in LAR TNBC tumors. Increased immunosuppression in LAR patients may lead to a decreased presence of cycling T-cells and plasma cells. While, an increased presence of myofibroblast-like cancer-associated cells may impede drug delivery and treatment. In summary, the lower levels of tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), reduced immune activity in the micro-environment, and lower pCR rates after NAC, suggest that new therapeutic strategies for the LAR TNBC subtype need to be developed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kevin J Thompson
- Mayo Clinic, Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Rochester, MN, USA
| | | | - Jason P Sinnwell
- Mayo Clinic, Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - David M Zahrieh
- Mayo Clinic, Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Vera J Suman
- Mayo Clinic, Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Rochester, MN, USA
| | | | - Sarah Asad
- The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Daniel G Stover
- The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Lisa Carey
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Medical Science, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - William M Sikov
- Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Department of Medicine Women, Providence, RI, USA
- Infants Hospital of Rhode Island, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Providence, RI, USA
| | - James N Ingle
- Mayo Clinic, Department of Oncology, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Minetta C Liu
- Mayo Clinic, Department of Oncology, Rochester, MN, USA
- Mayo Clinic, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Jodi M Carter
- Mayo Clinic, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Eric W Klee
- Mayo Clinic, Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Rochester, MN, USA
- Mayo Clinic, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Richard M Weinshilboum
- Mayo Clinic, Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Rochester, MN, USA
| | | | - Liewei Wang
- Mayo Clinic, Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Fergus J Couch
- Mayo Clinic, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Matthew P Goetz
- Mayo Clinic, Department of Oncology, Rochester, MN, USA
- Mayo Clinic, Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Krishna R Kalari
- Mayo Clinic, Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Rochester, MN, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Miles LA, Krajewski S, Baik N, Parmer RJ, Mueller BM. Plg-RKT Expression in Human Breast Cancer Tissues. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12040503. [PMID: 35454092 PMCID: PMC9028288 DOI: 10.3390/biom12040503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The plasminogen activation system regulates the activity of the serine protease, plasmin. The role of plasminogen receptors in cancer progression is being increasingly appreciated as key players in modulation of the tumor microenvironment. The interaction of plasminogen with cells to promote plasminogen activation requires the presence of proteins exposing C-terminal lysines on the cell surface. Plg-RKT is a structurally unique plasminogen receptor because it is an integral membrane protein that is synthesized with and binds plasminogen via a C-terminal lysine exposed on the cell surface. Here, we have investigated the expression of Plg-RKT in human breast tumors and human breast cancer cell lines. Breast cancer progression tissue microarrays were probed with anti-Plg-RKT mAB and we found that Plg-RKT is widely expressed in human breast tumors, that its expression is increased in tumors that have spread to draining lymph nodes and distant organs, and that Plg-RKT expression is most pronounced in hormone receptor (HR)-positive tumors. Plg-RKT was detected by Western blotting in human breast cancer cell lines. By flow cytometry, Plg-RKT cell surface expression was highest on the most aggressive tumor cell line. Future studies are warranted to address the functions of Plg-RKT in breast cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey A. Miles
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA; (L.A.M.); (N.B.)
| | | | - Nagyung Baik
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA; (L.A.M.); (N.B.)
| | - Robert J. Parmer
- Department of Medicine, Veterans Administration San Diego Healthcare System, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA 92161, USA;
| | - Barbara M. Mueller
- San Diego Biomedical Research Institute, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|