1
|
Zou Z, Luo T, Wang X, Wang B, Li Q. Exploring the interplay between triple-negative breast cancer stem cells and tumor microenvironment for effective therapeutic strategies. J Cell Physiol 2024; 239:e31278. [PMID: 38807378 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.31278] [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: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a highly aggressive and metastatic malignancy with poor treatment outcomes. The interaction between the tumor microenvironment (TME) and breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) plays an important role in the development of TNBC. Owing to their ability of self-renewal and multidirectional differentiation, BCSCs maintain tumor growth, drive metastatic colonization, and facilitate the development of drug resistance. TME is the main factor regulating the phenotype and metastasis of BCSCs. Immune cells, cancer-related fibroblasts (CAFs), cytokines, mesenchymal cells, endothelial cells, and extracellular matrix within the TME form a complex communication network, exert highly selective pressure on the tumor, and provide a conducive environment for the formation of BCSC niches. Tumor growth and metastasis can be controlled by targeting the TME to eliminate BCSC niches or targeting BCSCs to modify the TME. These approaches may improve the treatment outcomes and possess great application potential in clinical settings. In this review, we summarized the relationship between BCSCs and the progression and drug resistance of TNBC, especially focusing on the interaction between BCSCs and TME. In addition, we discussed therapeutic strategies that target the TME to inhibit or eliminate BCSCs, providing valuable insights into the clinical treatment of TNBC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhuoling Zou
- Queen Mary College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Tinglan Luo
- Department of Oncology, The Seventh People's Hospital of Chongqing (Affiliated Central Hospital of Chongqing University of Technology), Chongqing, China
| | - Xinyuan Wang
- Department of Clinical Medicine, The Second Clinical College of Chongqing Medicine University, Chongqing, China
| | - Bin Wang
- Department of Oncology, The Seventh People's Hospital of Chongqing (Affiliated Central Hospital of Chongqing University of Technology), Chongqing, China
| | - Qing Li
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Tayanloo-Beik A, Eslami A, Sarvari M, Jalaeikhoo H, Rajaeinejad M, Nikandish M, Faridfar A, Rezaei-Tavirani M, Mafi AR, Larijani B, Arjmand B. Extracellular vesicles and cancer stem cells: a deadly duo in tumor progression. Oncol Rev 2024; 18:1411736. [PMID: 39091989 PMCID: PMC11291337 DOI: 10.3389/or.2024.1411736] [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: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
The global incidence of cancer is increasing, with estimates suggesting that there will be 26 million new cases and 17 million deaths per year by 2030. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) and extracellular vesicles (EVs) are key to the resistance and advancement of cancer. They play a crucial role in tumor dynamics and resistance to therapy. CSCs, initially discovered in acute myeloid leukemia, are well-known for their involvement in tumor initiation, progression, and relapse, mostly because of their distinct characteristics, such as resistance to drugs and the ability to self-renew. EVs, which include exosomes, microvesicles, and apoptotic bodies, play a vital role in facilitating communication between cells within the tumor microenvironment (TME). They have a significant impact on cellular behaviors and contribute to genetic and epigenetic changes. This paper analyzes the mutually beneficial association between CSCs and EVs, emphasizing their role in promoting tumor spread and developing resistance mechanisms. This review aims to investigate the interaction between these entities in order to discover new approaches for attacking the complex machinery of cancer cells. It highlights the significance of CSCs and EVs as crucial targets in the advancement of novel cancer treatments, which helps stimulate additional research, promote progress in ideas for cancer treatment, and provide renewed optimism in the effort to reduce the burden of cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Akram Tayanloo-Beik
- Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Molecular-Cellular Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Azin Eslami
- Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Molecular-Cellular Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Hasan Jalaeikhoo
- AJA Cancer Epidemiology Research and Treatment Center (AJA-CERTC), AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohsen Rajaeinejad
- AJA Cancer Epidemiology Research and Treatment Center (AJA-CERTC), AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Aja University of medical sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohsen Nikandish
- AJA Cancer Epidemiology Research and Treatment Center (AJA-CERTC), AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Faridfar
- AJA Cancer Epidemiology Research and Treatment Center (AJA-CERTC), AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Ahmad Rezazadeh Mafi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Imam Hossein Hospital, Shaheed Beheshti Medical University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bagher Larijani
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Babak Arjmand
- Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Molecular-Cellular Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Cunha D, Neves M, Silva D, Silvestre AR, Nunes PB, Arrobas F, Ribot JC, Ferreira F, Moita LF, Soares-de-Almeida L, Silva JM, Filipe P, Ferreira J. Tumor-Infiltrating T Cells in Skin Basal Cell Carcinomas and Squamous Cell Carcinomas: Global Th1 Preponderance with Th17 Enrichment-A Cross-Sectional Study. Cells 2024; 13:964. [PMID: 38891095 PMCID: PMC11172364 DOI: 10.3390/cells13110964] [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: 05/04/2024] [Revised: 05/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Basal cell carcinomas (BCCs) and squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) are high-incidence, non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSCs). The success of immune-targeted therapies in advanced NMSCs led us to anticipate that NMSCs harbored significant populations of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes with potential anti-tumor activity. The main aim of this study was to characterize T cells infiltrating NMSCs. Flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry were used to assess, respectively, the proportions and densities of T cell subpopulations in BCCs (n = 118), SCCs (n = 33), and normal skin (NS, n = 30). CD8+ T cells, CD4+ T cell subsets, namely, Th1, Th2, Th17, Th9, and regulatory T cells (Tregs), CD8+ and CD4+ memory T cells, and γδ T cells were compared between NMSCs and NS samples. Remarkably, both BCCs and SCCs featured a significantly higher Th1/Th2 ratio (~four-fold) and an enrichment for Th17 cells. NMSCs also showed a significant enrichment for IFN-γ-producing CD8+T cells, and a depletion of γδ T cells. Using immunohistochemistry, NMSCs featured denser T cell infiltrates (CD4+, CD8+, and Tregs) than NS. Overall, these data favor a Th1-predominant response in BCCs and SCCs, providing support for immune-based treatments in NMSCs. Th17-mediated inflammation may play a role in the progression of NMSCs and thus become a potential therapeutic target in NMSCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Cunha
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal; (D.C.)
- Centro de Dermatologia, Hospital CUF Descobertas, 1998-018 Lisbon, Portugal
- Dermatology Unit, Champalimaud Foundation, 1400-038 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Marco Neves
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal; (D.C.)
| | - Daniela Silva
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal; (D.C.)
| | - Ana Rita Silvestre
- Serviço de Anatomia Patológica, Hospital CUF Descobertas, 1998-018 Lisbon, Portugal (P.B.N.)
| | - Paula Borralho Nunes
- Serviço de Anatomia Patológica, Hospital CUF Descobertas, 1998-018 Lisbon, Portugal (P.B.N.)
- Instituto de Anatomia Patológica, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Fernando Arrobas
- Datamedica, Biostatistics Services and Consulting, 2610-008 Amadora, Portugal
| | - Julie C. Ribot
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal; (D.C.)
| | - Fernando Ferreira
- CIISA—Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, 1300-477 Lisbon, Portugal;
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), 1300-477 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Luís F. Moita
- Innate Immunity and Inflammation Laboratory, Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, 2780-156 Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Luís Soares-de-Almeida
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal; (D.C.)
- Serviço de Dermatologia, Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Norte EPE, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
- Clínica Dermatológica Universitária, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - João Maia Silva
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal; (D.C.)
- Centro de Dermatologia, Hospital CUF Descobertas, 1998-018 Lisbon, Portugal
- Serviço de Dermatologia, Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Norte EPE, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
- Clínica Dermatológica Universitária, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Paulo Filipe
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal; (D.C.)
- Serviço de Dermatologia, Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Norte EPE, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
- Clínica Dermatológica Universitária, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - João Ferreira
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal; (D.C.)
- Clínica Dermatológica Universitária, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Wang P, Xu MH, Xu WX, Dong ZY, Shen YH, Qin WZ. CXCL9 Overexpression Predicts Better HCC Response to Anti-PD-1 Therapy and Promotes N1 Polarization of Neutrophils. J Hepatocell Carcinoma 2024; 11:787-800. [PMID: 38737384 PMCID: PMC11088828 DOI: 10.2147/jhc.s450468] [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: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Anti-programmed death-1 (PD1) antibodies have changed the treatment landscape for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and exhibit promising treatment efficacy. However, the majority of HCCs still do not respond to anti-PD-1 therapy. Methods We analyzed the expression of CXCL9 in blood samples from patients who received anti-PD-1 therapy and evaluated its correlation with clinicopathological characteristics and treatment outcomes. Based on the results of Cox regression analysis, a nomogram was established for predicting HCC response to anti-PD-1 therapy. qRT‒PCR and multiple immunofluorescence assays were utilized to analyze the proportions of N1-type neutrophils in vitro and in tumor samples, respectively. Results The nomogram showed good predictive efficacy in the training and validation cohorts and may be useful for guiding clinical treatment of HCC patients. We also found that HCC cell-derived CXCL9 promoted N1 polarization of neutrophils in vitro and that AMG487, a specific CXCR3 inhibitor, significantly blocked this process. Moreover, multiple immunofluorescence (mIF) showed that patients with higher serum CXCL9 levels had greater infiltration of the N1 phenotype of tumor-associated neutrophils (TANs). Conclusion Our study highlights the critical role of CXCL9 as an effective biomarker of immunotherapy efficacy and in promoting the polarization of N1-type neutrophils; thus, targeting the CXCL9-CXCR3 axis could represent a novel pharmaceutical strategy to enhance immunotherapy for HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pei Wang
- Endoscopy Center and Endoscopy Research Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Digestive Medicine, Wuwei People’s Hospital, Wuwei City, Gansu Province, 733000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ming-Hao Xu
- Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Liver Cancer Institute and Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wen-Xin Xu
- Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Liver Cancer Institute and Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zi-Ying Dong
- Department of CT/MRI Center, Wuwei People’s Hospital, Wuwei City, Gansu Province, 733000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ying-Hao Shen
- Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Liver Cancer Institute and Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wen-Zheng Qin
- Endoscopy Center and Endoscopy Research Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Guo Q, Zhou Y, Xie T, Yuan Y, Li H, Shi W, Zheng L, Li X, Zhang W. Tumor microenvironment of cancer stem cells: Perspectives on cancer stem cell targeting. Genes Dis 2024; 11:101043. [PMID: 38292177 PMCID: PMC10825311 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2023.05.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
There are few tumor cell subpopulations with stem cell characteristics in tumor tissue, defined as cancer stem cells (CSCs) or cancer stem-like cells (CSLCs), which can reconstruct neoplasms with malignant biological behaviors such as invasiveness via self-renewal and unlimited generation. The microenvironment that CSCs depend on consists of various cellular components and corresponding medium components. Among these factors existing at a variety of levels and forms, cytokine networks and numerous signal pathways play an important role in signaling transduction. These factors promote or maintain cancer cell stemness, and participate in cancer recurrence, metastasis, and resistance. This review aims to summarize the recent molecular data concerning the multilayered relationship between CSCs and CSC-favorable microenvironments. We also discuss the therapeutic implications of targeting this synergistic interplay, hoping to give an insight into targeting cancer cell stemness for tumor therapy and prognosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qianqian Guo
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan 450003, China
| | - Yi Zhou
- School of Life Science and Technology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211198, China
| | - Tianyuan Xie
- School of Life Science and Technology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211198, China
| | - Yin Yuan
- School of Life Science and Technology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211198, China
| | - Huilong Li
- School of Life Science and Technology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211198, China
| | - Wanjin Shi
- School of Life Science and Technology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211198, China
| | - Lufeng Zheng
- School of Life Science and Technology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Intervention, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211198, China
| | - Xiaoman Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, China
| | - Wenzhou Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University & Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan 450003, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Nicolini A, Ferrari P, Silvestri R, Gemignani F. The breast cancer tumor microenvironment and precision medicine: immunogenicity and conditions favoring response to immunotherapy. JOURNAL OF THE NATIONAL CANCER CENTER 2024; 4:14-24. [PMID: 39036381 PMCID: PMC11256721 DOI: 10.1016/j.jncc.2024.01.004] [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: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Some main recent researches that have dissected tumor microenvironment (TME) by imaging mass cytometry (IMC) in different subtypes of primary breast cancer samples were considered. The many phenotypic variants, clusters of epithelial tumor and immune cells, their structural features as well as the main genetic aberrations, sub-clonal heterogeneity and their systematic classification also have been examined. Mutational evolution has been assessed in primary and metastatic breast cancer samples. Overall, based on these findings the current concept of precision medicine is questioned and challenged by alternative therapeutic strategies. In the last two decades, immunotherapy as a powerful and harmless tool to fight cancer has received huge attention. Thus, the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) composition, its prognostic role for clinical course as well as a novel definition of immunogenicity in breast cancer are proposed. Investigational clinical trials carried out by us and other findings suggest that G0-G1 state induced in endocrine-dependent metastatic breast cancer is more suitable for successful immune manipulation. Residual micro-metastatic disease seems to be another specific condition that can significantly favor the immune response in breast and other solid tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Nicolini
- Department of Oncology, Transplantations and New Technologies in Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Paola Ferrari
- Department of Oncology, Transplantations and New Technologies in Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Roberto Silvestri
- Department of Biology, Genetic Unit, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Hosseinkhani N, Hemmat N, Baghbani E, Baghbanzadeh A, Kazemi T, Mokhtarzadeh A, Jafarlou M, Amin Doustvandi M, Baradaran B. Dual silencing of tumor-intrinsic VISTA and CTLA-4 stimulates T-cell mediated immune responses and inhibits MCF7 breast cancer development. Gene 2024; 896:148043. [PMID: 38042220 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2023.148043] [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: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND As inhibitory immune checkpoint molecules, cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated antigen-4 (CTLA-4) and V-domain Ig suppressor of T-cell activation (VISTA) can be expressed in tumoral cells and facilitate immune evasion of tumoral cells. Herein, we studied the significance of tumor-intrinsic CTLA-4 and VISTA silencing in tumor development and inflammatory factors expression in a co-culture system with MCF7 and T-cells. METHODS MCF7 cells were transfected with 60 pmol of CTLA-siRNA, VISTA-siRNA, and dual VISTA-/CTLA-4-siRNA. The MTT assay was performed to study the effect of CTLA-4 and VISTA knockdown on the viability of MCF7 cells. Colony formation and wound-healing assays were performed to investigate the effect of CTLA-4 and VISTA silencing on the clonogenicity and migration of MCF7 cells. Flow cytometry was used to study the significance of CTLA-4 and VISTA knockdown on the apoptosis and cell cycle of MCF7 cells. Also, a co-culture system with MCF7 and T-cells was developed to study the expression levels of IL-2, IFN-γ, TNF-α, TGF-β, and IL-10 following CTLA-4 and VISTA knockdown. The expression levels of caspase3, Bax, Bcl2, and MMP-9 were also investigated using quantitative real-time PCR. Finally, the TCGA Breast Cancer and GSE45827 datasets were analyzed to study the potential prognostic values of VISTA and CTLA-4, their expression difference in luminal A breast cancer and non-tumoral tissues, and their correlation in luminal A breast cancer tissues. RESULTS Combined knockdown of tumor-intrinsic VISTA and CTLA-4 is superior in upregulating IL-2, IFN-γ, and TNF-α, downregulating TGF-β and IL-10 in T lymphocytes. Also, the combined silencing arrests the cell cycle at the sub-G1 phase, decreases migration, inhibits clonogenicity, and reduces cell viability of MCF7 cells. This combined treatment upregulates caspase 9 and BAX and downregulates MMP-9 in MCF7 cells. Our in-silico results have demonstrated a significant positive correlation between CTLA-4 and VISTA in luminal A breast cancer. CONCLUSION The additive effect of the combined knockdown of tumor-intrinsic VISTA and CTLA-4 can substantially upregulate pro-inflammatory factors, downregulate anti-inflammatory factors, and inhibit tumor development in MCF7 cells. The significant positive correlation between VISTA and CTLA-4 in luminal A breast cancer might support the idea that a network of inhibitory immune checkpoint molecules regulates anti-tumoral immune responses; thus, combinational immune checkpoint molecules blockade can be suggested.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Negar Hosseinkhani
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Nima Hemmat
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Elham Baghbani
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Amir Baghbanzadeh
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Tohid Kazemi
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ahad Mokhtarzadeh
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mahdi Jafarlou
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Behzad Baradaran
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Khan SU, Fatima K, Aisha S, Malik F. Unveiling the mechanisms and challenges of cancer drug resistance. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:109. [PMID: 38347575 PMCID: PMC10860306 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01302-1] [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: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer treatment faces many hurdles and resistance is one among them. Anti-cancer treatment strategies are evolving due to innate and acquired resistance capacity, governed by genetic, epigenetic, proteomic, metabolic, or microenvironmental cues that ultimately enable selected cancer cells to survive and progress under unfavorable conditions. Although the mechanism of drug resistance is being widely studied to generate new target-based drugs with better potency than existing ones. However, due to the broader flexibility in acquired drug resistance, advanced therapeutic options with better efficacy need to be explored. Combination therapy is an alternative with a better success rate though the risk of amplified side effects is commonplace. Moreover, recent groundbreaking precision immune therapy is one of the ways to overcome drug resistance and has revolutionized anticancer therapy to a greater extent with the only limitation of being individual-specific and needs further attention. This review will focus on the challenges and strategies opted by cancer cells to withstand the current therapies at the molecular level and also highlights the emerging therapeutic options -like immunological, and stem cell-based options that may prove to have better potential to challenge the existing problem of therapy resistance. Video Abstract.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sameer Ullah Khan
- Division of Genitourinary Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
- Division of Cancer Pharmacology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Srinagar-190005, Jammu and Kashmir, India.
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad-201002, India.
| | - Kaneez Fatima
- Division of Cancer Pharmacology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Srinagar-190005, Jammu and Kashmir, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad-201002, India
| | - Shariqa Aisha
- Division of Cancer Pharmacology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Srinagar-190005, Jammu and Kashmir, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad-201002, India
| | - Fayaz Malik
- Division of Cancer Pharmacology, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Srinagar-190005, Jammu and Kashmir, India.
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad-201002, India.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Ding G, Yu H, Jin J, Qiao X, Ma J, Zhang T, Cheng X. Reciprocal relationship between cancer stem cells and myeloid-derived suppressor cells: implications for tumor progression and therapeutic strategies. Future Oncol 2024; 20:215-228. [PMID: 38390682 DOI: 10.2217/fon-2023-0907] [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] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Recently, there has been an increased focus on cancer stem cells (CSCs) due to their resilience, making them difficult to eradicate. This resilience often leads to tumor recurrence and metastasis. CSCs adeptly manipulate their surroundings to create an environment conducive to their survival. In this environment, myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) play a crucial role in promoting epithelial-mesenchymal transition and bolstering CSCs' stemness. In response, CSCs attract MDSCs, enhancing their infiltration, expansion and immunosuppressive capabilities. This interaction between CSCs and MDSCs increases the difficulty of antitumor therapy. In this paper, we discuss the interplay between CSCs and MDSCs based on current research and highlight recent therapeutic strategies targeting either CSCs or MDSCs that show promise in achieving effective antitumor outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guiqing Ding
- Institute of Clinical Immunology, Yue-yang Hospital of Integrative Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200437, China
| | - Hua Yu
- Institute of Clinical Immunology, Yue-yang Hospital of Integrative Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200437, China
| | - Jason Jin
- Institute of Clinical Immunology, Yue-yang Hospital of Integrative Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200437, China
| | - Xi Qiao
- Institute of Clinical Immunology, Yue-yang Hospital of Integrative Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200437, China
| | - Jinyun Ma
- Institute of Clinical Immunology, Yue-yang Hospital of Integrative Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200437, China
| | - Tong Zhang
- Institute of Clinical Immunology, Yue-yang Hospital of Integrative Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200437, China
| | - Xiaodong Cheng
- Institute of Clinical Immunology, Yue-yang Hospital of Integrative Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200437, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Hou C, Wang Z, Lu X. Impact of immunosenescence and inflammaging on the effects of immune checkpoint inhibitors. CANCER PATHOGENESIS AND THERAPY 2024; 2:24-30. [PMID: 38328711 PMCID: PMC10846300 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpt.2023.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are employed in immunotherapeutic applications for patients with weakened immune systems and can improve the ability of T cells to kill cancer cells. Although ICIs can potentially treat different types of cancers in various groups of patients, their effectiveness may differ among older individuals. The reason ICIs are less effective in older adults is not yet clearly understood, but age-related changes in the immune system, such as immunosenescence and inflammation, may play a role. Therefore, this review focuses on recent advances in understanding the effects of immunosenescence and inflammation on the efficacy of ICIs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chuandong Hou
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing 100853, China
- Department of Hematology, The Second Medical Center & National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, China
| | - Zining Wang
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing 100853, China
- Department of Hematology, The Second Medical Center & National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, China
| | - Xuechun Lu
- Department of Hematology, The Second Medical Center & National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Diseases, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Li P, Li F, Zhang Y, Yu X, Li J. Metabolic diversity of tumor-infiltrating T cells as target for anti-immune therapeutics. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2023; 72:3453-3460. [PMID: 37733059 PMCID: PMC10992207 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-023-03540-1] [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: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
Tumor-infiltrating T cells are promising drug targets to modulate the tumor microenvironment. However, tumor-infiltrating T lymphocytes, as central targets of cancer immunotherapy, show considerable heterogeneity and dynamics across tumor microenvironments and cancer types that may fundamentally influence cancer growth, metastasis, relapse, and response to clinical drugs. The T cell heterogeneity not only refers to the composition of subpopulations but also divergent metabolic states of T cells. Comparing to the diversity of tumor-infiltrating T cell compositions that have been well recognized, the metabolic diversity of T cells deserves more attention for precision immunotherapy. Single-cell sequencing technology enables panoramic stitching of the tumor bulk, partly by showing the metabolic-related gene expression profiles of tumor-infiltrating T cells at a single-cell resolution. Therefore, we here discuss T cell metabolism reprogramming triggered by tumor microenvironment as well as the potential application of metabolic targeting drugs. The tumor-infiltrating T cells metabolic pathway addictions among different cancer types are also addressed in this brief review.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peipei Li
- Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, School of Clinical Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 262700, China
- BGI Tech Solutions, Co., Ltd. BGI Shenzhen, Shenzhen, 518000, China
- Jinming Yu Academician Workstation of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 262700, China
| | - Fangchao Li
- Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, School of Clinical Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 262700, China
- Jinming Yu Academician Workstation of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 262700, China
| | - Yanfei Zhang
- Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, School of Clinical Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 262700, China
- Jinming Yu Academician Workstation of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 262700, China
| | - Xiaoyang Yu
- Weibei Prison Hospital, Weifang, Shandong, 261109, China
| | - Jingjing Li
- Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, School of Clinical Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 262700, China.
- Jinming Yu Academician Workstation of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 262700, China.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Wang L, Yi S, Teng Y, Li W, Cai J. Role of the tumor microenvironment in the lymphatic metastasis of cervical cancer (Review). Exp Ther Med 2023; 26:486. [PMID: 37753293 PMCID: PMC10518654 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2023.12185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Lymphatic metastasis is the primary type of cervical cancer metastasis and is associated with an extremely poor prognosis in patients. The tumor microenvironment primarily includes cancer-associated fibroblasts, tumor-associated macrophages, myeloid-derived suppressor cells, immune and inflammatory cells, and blood and lymphatic vascular networks, which can promote the establishment of lymphatic metastatic sites within immunosuppressive microenvironments or promote lymphatic metastasis by stimulating lymphangiogenesis and epithelial-mesenchymal transformation. As the most important feature of the tumor microenvironment, hypoxia plays an essential role in lymph node metastasis. In this review, the known mechanisms of hypoxia, and the involvement of stromal components and immune inflammatory cells in the tumor microenvironment of lymphatic metastasis of cervical cancer are discussed. Additionally, a summary of the clinical trials targeting the tumor microenvironment for the treatment of cervical cancer is provided, emphasizing the potential and challenges of immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lufang Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430022, P.R. China
| | - Shuyan Yi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430022, P.R. China
| | - Yun Teng
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine; Key Laboratory of Clinical In Vitro Diagnostic Techniques of Zhejiang Province; Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310000, P.R. China
| | - Wenhan Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430022, P.R. China
| | - Jing Cai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430022, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Geršak K, Geršak BM, Gazić B, Klevišar Ivančič A, Drev P, Ružić Gorenjec N, Grašič Kuhar C. The Possible Role of Anti- and Protumor-Infiltrating Lymphocytes in Pathologic Complete Response in Early Breast Cancer Patients Treated with Neoadjuvant Systemic Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4794. [PMID: 37835488 PMCID: PMC10571934 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15194794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment, composed of pro- and antitumor immune cells, affects cancer cell behavior. We aimed to evaluate whether tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) density and TIL subtypes in core biopsies at the diagnosis of breast cancer patients could predict a pathologic complete response (pCR; ypT0/is ypN0) from neoadjuvant systemic therapy (NST). The TIL subtypes were determined based on the proportions of presumably antitumor (CD8+, CXCL13+) and protumor (PD-1+, FOXP3+) immune cells. A prospective, noninterventional study, including 171 participants undergoing NST, was performed. The median TIL density for the entire cohort was 10% (IQR: 3.5-23.8), and 59 (35%) patients achieved pCR. TIL density was positively associated with pCR (univariately and multivariably). In the multivariable logistic regression model, TIL density was an independent predictor of pCR (p = 0.012, OR 1.27; 95% CI 1.05-1.54) when controlled for age (p = 0.232), Ki-67 (p = 0.001), node-negative status (p = 0.024), and HER2+/triple negative vs. luminal B-like subtype (p < 0.001). In our sample, higher proportions of PD-1+ TILs and FOXP3+ TILs were associated with a higher probability of pCR but the association was not statistically significant and we could not make any conclusions on the direction of associations in the model with all four biomarkers. In the exploratory multivariable analysis, we showed that only higher CD8+ TILs were associated with pCR. In conclusion, TIL density and its subtypes are associated with pCR.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Klara Geršak
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Vrazov Trg 2, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia (B.G.); (A.K.I.); (C.G.K.)
- Division of Medical Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Zaloška Cesta 2, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Blaž Matija Geršak
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Vrazov Trg 2, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia (B.G.); (A.K.I.); (C.G.K.)
| | - Barbara Gazić
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Vrazov Trg 2, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia (B.G.); (A.K.I.); (C.G.K.)
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Zaloška Cesta 2, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia;
| | - Andreja Klevišar Ivančič
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Vrazov Trg 2, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia (B.G.); (A.K.I.); (C.G.K.)
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Zaloška Cesta 2, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia;
| | - Primož Drev
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Zaloška Cesta 2, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia;
| | - Nina Ružić Gorenjec
- Institute for Biostatistics and Medical Informatics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Vrazov Trg 2, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia;
| | - Cvetka Grašič Kuhar
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Vrazov Trg 2, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia (B.G.); (A.K.I.); (C.G.K.)
- Division of Medical Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Zaloška Cesta 2, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Peng JM, Su YL. Lymph node metastasis and tumor-educated immune tolerance: Potential therapeutic targets against distant metastasis. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 215:115731. [PMID: 37541450 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Revised: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023]
Abstract
Lymph node metastasis has been shown to positively associated with the prognosis of many cancers. However, in clinical treatment, lymphadenectomy is not always successful, suggesting that immune cells in the tumor and sentinel lymph nodes still play a pivotal role in tumor immunosuppression. Recent studies had shown that tumors can tolerate immune cells through multiple strategies, including tumor-induced macrophage reprogramming, T cells inactivation, production of B cells pathogenic antibodies and activation of regulatory T cells to promote tumor colonization, growth, and metastasis in lymph nodes. We reviewed the bidirectional effect of immune cells on anti-tumor or promotion of cancer cell metastasis during lymph node metastasis, and the mechanisms by which malignant cancer cells modify immune cells to create a more favorable environment for the growth and survival of cancer cells. Research and treatment strategies focusing on the immune system in lymph nodes and potential immune targets in lymph node metastasis were also be discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jei-Ming Peng
- Institute for Translational Research in Biomedicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, No. 123, Dapi Rd., Niaosong Dist., Kaohsiung, 83301, Taiwan.
| | - Yu-Li Su
- Division of Hematology Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University, College of Medicine, No. 123, Dapi Rd., Niaosong Dist., Kaohsiung, 83301, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Li L, Liu J, Wang W, Fu Y, Deng Y, Li X, Liu Z, Pang Y, Xu Y, Yan M, Li Z. Cancer stem cells promote lymph nodes metastasis of breast cancer by reprogramming tumor microenvironment. Transl Oncol 2023; 35:101733. [PMID: 37421907 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2023.101733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer progression and metastasis are governed by a complex interplay within the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME), involving numerous cell types. Lymph node metastasis (LNM) is a key prognostic marker associated with distant organ metastasis and reduced patient survival, but the mechanisms underlying its promotion by breast cancer stem cells (CSCs) remain unclear. Our study sought to unravel how CSCs reprogram TIME to facilitate LNM. Utilizing single-cell RNA sequencing, we profiled TIME in primary cancer and corresponding metastatic lymph node samples from patients at our institution. To verify the derived data, we cultured CSCs and performed validation assays employing flow cytometry and CyTOF. Our analysis revealed distinct differences in cellular infiltration patterns between tumor and LNM samples. Importantly, RAC2 and PTTG1 double-positive CSCs, which exhibit the highest stem-like attributes, were markedly enriched in metastatic lymph nodes. These CSCs are hypothesized to foster metastasis via activation of specific metastasis-related transcription factors and signaling pathways. Additionally, our data suggest that CSCs might modulate adaptive and innate immune cell evolution, thereby further contributing to metastasis. In summary, this study illuminates a critical role of CSCs in modifying TIME to facilitate LNM. The enrichment of highly stem-like CSCs in metastatic lymph nodes offers novel therapeutic targeting opportunities and deepens our understanding of breast cancer metastasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lin Li
- Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin Medical University, No.150 Haping Rd, Nangang District, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Jianyu Liu
- Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin Medical University, No.150 Haping Rd, Nangang District, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Wenzheng Wang
- Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin Medical University, No.150 Haping Rd, Nangang District, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Yingqiang Fu
- Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin Medical University, No.150 Haping Rd, Nangang District, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Yuhan Deng
- Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin Medical University, No.150 Haping Rd, Nangang District, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Xin Li
- Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin Medical University, No.150 Haping Rd, Nangang District, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Zhuolin Liu
- Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin Medical University, No.150 Haping Rd, Nangang District, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Yuheng Pang
- Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin Medical University, No.150 Haping Rd, Nangang District, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Yangyang Xu
- Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin Medical University, No.150 Haping Rd, Nangang District, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Meisi Yan
- Department of Pathology, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Zhigao Li
- Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin Medical University, No.150 Haping Rd, Nangang District, Harbin 150081, China.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Li T, Hu Z, Song F, Wu C, Miao Q, Wang Z, Feng W, Guo J, Chen Y. Photonic Hyperthermia Synergizes with Immune-Activators to Augment Tumor-Localized Immunotherapy. SMALL METHODS 2023; 7:e2300116. [PMID: 37075769 DOI: 10.1002/smtd.202300116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Photothermal immunotherapy, the combination of photothermal hyperthermia and immunotherapy, is a noninvasive and desirable therapeutic strategy to address the deficiency of traditional photothermal ablation for tumor treatment. However, insufficient T-cell activation following photothermal treatment is a bottleneck to achieve satisfactory therapeutic effectiveness. In this work, a multifunctional nanoplatform is rationally designed and engineered on the basis of polypyrrole-based magnetic nanomedicine modified by T-cell activators of anti-CD3 and anti-CD28 monoclonal antibodies, which have achieved robust near infrared laser-triggered photothermal ablation and long-lasting T-cell activation, realizing diagnostic imaging-guided immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment regulation following photothermal hyperthermia by reinvigorating tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes. By virtue of high-efficient immunogenic cell death and dendritic cell maturation combined with T-cell activation, this nanosystem markedly restrains primary and abscopal tumors as well as metastatic tumors with negligible side effects in vivo, exerting the specific function for suppressing tumor recurrence and metastasis by establishing a long-term memory immune response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tiankuan Li
- Center of Interventional Radiology and Vascular Surgery, Department of Radiology and Ultrasound, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, P. R. China
- Department of Radiology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, P. R. China
| | - Zhongqian Hu
- Center of Interventional Radiology and Vascular Surgery, Department of Radiology and Ultrasound, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, P. R. China
| | - Feifei Song
- Department of Pathology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital Affiliated to Tongji University, Shanghai, 200072, P. R. China
| | - Chenyao Wu
- State Key Laboratory of High Performance Ceramics and Superfine Microstructures, Shanghai Institute of Ceramics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200050, P. R. China
| | - Qizeng Miao
- Department of Pathology, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital Affiliated to Tongji University, Shanghai, 200072, P. R. China
| | - Zhongmin Wang
- Department of Radiology, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, P. R. China
| | - Wei Feng
- Materdicine Lab, School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, P. R. China
| | - Jinhe Guo
- Center of Interventional Radiology and Vascular Surgery, Department of Radiology and Ultrasound, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, P. R. China
| | - Yu Chen
- Materdicine Lab, School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Wang YY, Wang WD, Sun ZJ. Cancer stem cell-immune cell collusion in immunotherapy. Int J Cancer 2023. [PMID: 36602290 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.34421] [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: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Immunotherapy has pioneered a new era of tumor treatment, in which the immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) exerts significant superiority in overcoming tumor immune escape. However, the formation of an immune-suppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) and the lack of effective activation of the immune response have become major obstacles limiting its development. Emerging reports indicate that cancer stem cells (CSCs) potentially play important roles in treatment resistance and progressive relapse, while current research is usually focused on CSCs themselves. In this review, we mainly emphasize the collusions between CSCs and tumor-infiltrating immune cells. We focus on the summary of CSC-immune cell crosstalk signaling pathways in ICB resistance and highlight the application of targeted drugs to improve the ICB response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuan-Yuan Wang
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei-MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine, Ministry of Education, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Wen-Da Wang
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei-MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine, Ministry of Education, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhi-Jun Sun
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei-MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine, Ministry of Education, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, People's Republic of China.,Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head Neck Oncology, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Berg-Larsen A, Mobergslien A, Moen I, Petros G, Kristian A, Gunvaldsen KS, Cruciani V, Wickstroem K, Bjerke RM, Karlsson J, Cuthbertson A. Tumor growth inhibition and immune system activation following treatment with thorium-227 conjugates and PD-1 check-point inhibition in the MC-38 murine model. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:1033303. [DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.1033303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Targeted thorium-227 conjugates comprise the combination of a monoclonal antibody with specificity for a tumor cell antigen and a 3,2-HOPO chelator enabling complexation of thorium-227 (Th-227). The radiolabeled conjugate functions as an effective delivery system of alpha-particle radiation to the surface of the tumor cell inducing difficult to repair complex DNA damage and cell death. In addition, the mechanism of action of targeted alpha therapy (TAT) appears to involve a significant component linked to stimulation of the immune system. We report herein evidence of immune activation and long-lasting immune protection of a TAT in a syngeneic model using the MC-38 murine cell line. Firstly, MC-38 cells were irradiated ex vivo with the thorium labeled antibody before subcutaneous implantation into mice. These mice were then rechallenged with MC-38 cells contra-laterally. In the group receiving irradiated cells, 9 out of 10 animals had no measurable tumor growth compared to aggressive tumor growth in the control group. Secondly, in an efficacy study, 500 kBq/kg of thorium labeled antibody alone or in combination with PD-1 checkpoint inhibitor gave statistically significant tumor growth inhibition compared to vehicle control. Animals with no measurable tumors were once again rechallenged contra-laterally with MC-38 cells. The re-growth of tumors was significantly delayed (approx. 60 days) in the treatment group compared to age-matched controls (approx. 30 days) in the monotherapy group. Interestingly, in the TAT/ PD-1 combination group no re-growth was observed demonstrating the potential of combining a TAT with checkpoint inhibition therapy. Finally, tumors were excised from treated mice and analyzed by flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry (IHC). Analysis revealed significant infiltration of CD8+ T-cells and mature dendritic cells compared to vehicle controls. Together these results indicated that an ongoing immune response from treatment with alpha radiation could be enhanced by check-point inhibition.
Collapse
|
19
|
Shahverdi M, Masoumi J, Ghorbaninezhad F, Shajari N, Hajizadeh F, Hassanian H, Alizadeh N, Jafarlou M, Baradaran B. The modulatory role of dendritic cell-T cell cross-talk in breast cancer: Challenges and prospects. Adv Med Sci 2022; 67:353-363. [PMID: 36116207 DOI: 10.1016/j.advms.2022.09.001] [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: 05/01/2022] [Revised: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Antigen recognition and presentation are highlighted as the first steps in developing specialized antigen responses. Dendritic cells (DCs) are outstanding professional antigen-presenting cells (APCs) responsible for priming cellular immunity in pathological states, including cancer. However, the diminished or repressed function of DCs is thought to be a substantial mechanism through which tumors escape from the immune system. In this regard, DCs obtained from breast cancer (BC) patients represent a notably weakened potency to encourage specific T-cell responses. Additionally, impaired DC-T-cell cross-talk in BC facilitates the immune evade of cancer cells and is connected with tumor advancement, immune tolerance, and adverse prognosis for patients. In this review we aim to highlight the available knowledge on DC-T-cell interactions in BC aggressiveness and show its therapeutic potential in BC treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mahshid Shahverdi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
| | - Javad Masoumi
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Farid Ghorbaninezhad
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Neda Shajari
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Farnaz Hajizadeh
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hamidreza Hassanian
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Nazila Alizadeh
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mahdi Jafarlou
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Behzad Baradaran
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Wu J, Luo D, Li S. Ovo Like Zinc Finger 2 (OVOL2) Suppresses Breast Cancer Stem Cell Traits and Correlates with Immune Cells Infiltration. BREAST CANCER: TARGETS AND THERAPY 2022; 14:211-227. [PMID: 35996562 PMCID: PMC9391936 DOI: 10.2147/bctt.s363114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jiafa Wu
- School of Food and Bioengineering, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, People’s Republic of China
- Correspondence: Jiafa Wu, School of Food and Bioengineering, Henan University of Science and Technology, Kaiyuan Avenue 263, Luoyang, People’s Republic of China, Email
| | - Dongping Luo
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shengnan Li
- School of Medicine, Henan Polytechnic University, Jiaozuo, People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Effect of Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy Combined with Thermoplastic Fixation on Set-Up Errors in Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Radiotherapy. COMPUTATIONAL AND MATHEMATICAL METHODS IN MEDICINE 2022; 2022:8370842. [PMID: 35959358 PMCID: PMC9357780 DOI: 10.1155/2022/8370842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Objective To investigate the effect of stereotactic radiotherapy (SBRT) combined with thermoplastic fixation on set-up error in breast cancer (BC) patients undergoing radiotherapy. Methods Ninety BC patients undergoing radiotherapy who were treated in our hospital (May 2019-May 2020) were selected as the research objects and equally divided into the experimental group and control group according to the order of hospitalization, with 45 patients in each group. The control group received conventional radiotherapy combined with breast bracket, and the experimental group received SBRT combined with thermoplastic fixation. The incidences of adverse reactions, 1-year survival rates, and set-up errors were compared between the two groups. Results Compared with the control group, the experimental group had much lower total incidence of adverse reactions and remarkably higher 1-year survival rate. The translational errors (X direction, Y direction, and Z direction), translational errors after rotation (X direction, Y direction, and Z direction), and rotation errors (X direction, Y direction, and Z direction) in the experimental group were obviously lower compared with those in the control group. Conclusion Implementing SBRT combined with thermoplastic fixation in BC patients undergoing radiotherapy can effectively improve set-up efficiency and treatment accuracy and reduce set-up errors. Compared with the breast bracket, the combination of SBRT and thermoplastic fixation has higher application value, and further studies are conducive to providing patients with a better solution plan.
Collapse
|
22
|
Wang Y, Li C, Chi X, Huang X, Gao H, Ji N, Zhang Y. Low MxA Expression Predicts Better Immunotherapeutic Outcomes in Glioblastoma Patients Receiving Heat Shock Protein Peptide Complex 96 Vaccination. Front Oncol 2022; 12:865779. [PMID: 35903678 PMCID: PMC9321638 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.865779] [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: 01/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Heat shock protein peptide complex 96 (HSPPC-96) has been proven to be a safe and preliminarily effective therapeutic vaccine in treating newly diagnosed glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) (NCT02122822). However, the clinical outcomes were highly variable, rendering the discovery of outcome-predictive biomarkers essential for this immunotherapy. We utilized multidimensional immunofluorescence staining to detect CD4+ CD8+ and PD-1+ immune cell infiltration levels, MxA and gp96 protein expression in pre-vaccination GBM tissues of 19 patients receiving HSPPC-96 vaccination. We observed low MxA expression was associated with longer OS than high MxA expression (48 months vs. 20 months, p=0.038). Long-term survivors (LTS) exhibited significantly lower MxA expression than short-term survivors (STS) (p= 0.0328), and ROC curve analysis indicated MxA expression as a good indicator in distinguishing LTS and STS (AUC=0.7955, p=0.0318). However, we did not observe any significant impact of immune cell densities or gp96 expression on patient outcomes. Finally, we revealed the association of MxA expression with prognosis linked to a preexisting TCR clone (CDR3-2) but was independent of the peripheral tumor-specific immune response. Taken together, low MxA expression correlated with better survival in GBM patients receiving HSPPC-96 vaccination, indicating MxA as a potential biomarker for early recognition of responsive patients to this immunotherapy.Clinical Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02122822) http://www. chictr.org.cn/enindex.aspx (ChiCTR-ONC-13003309).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Big Data-Based Precision Medicine, Beihang University, Beijing, China
| | - Chunzhao Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaohan Chi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | | | - Hua Gao
- Cure & Sure Biotech Co., LTD, Shenzhen, China
| | - Nan Ji
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Big Data-Based Precision Medicine, Beihang University, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Yang Zhang, ; Nan Ji,
| | - Yang Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- China National Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Yang Zhang, ; Nan Ji,
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Núñez-Ruiz A, Sánchez-Brena F, López-Pacheco C, Acevedo-Domínguez NA, Soldevila G. Obesity modulates the immune macroenvironment associated with breast cancer development. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0266827. [PMID: 35472214 PMCID: PMC9041840 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0266827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Growing evidence demonstrates a strong correlation between obesity and an increased risk of breast cancer, although the mechanisms involved have not been completely elucidated. Some reports have described a crosstalk between adipocytes, cancer cells, and immune cells within the tumor microenvironment, however, it is currently unknown whether obesity can promote tumor growth by inducing systemic alterations of the immune cell homeostasis in peripheral lymphoid organs and adipose tissue. Here, we used the E0771 breast cancer cell line in a mouse model of diet-induced obesity to analyze the immune subpopulations present in the tumors, visceral adipose tissue (VAT), and spleen of lean and obese mice. Our results showed a significant reduction in the frequency of infiltrating CD8+ T cells and a decreased M1/M2 macrophage ratio, indicative of the compromised anti-tumoral immune response reported in obesity. Despite not finding differences in the percentage or numbers of intratumoral Tregs, phenotypic analysis showed that they were enriched in CD39+, PD-1+ and CCR8+ cells, compared to the draining lymph nodes, confirming the highly immunosuppressive profile of infiltrating Tregs reported in established tumors. Analysis of peripheral T lymphocytes showed that tumor development in obese mice was associated to a significant increase in the percentage of peripheral Tregs, which supports the systemic immunosuppressive effect caused by the tumor. Interestingly, evaluation of immune subpopulations in the VAT showed that the characteristic increase in the M1/M2 macrophage ratio reported in obesity, was completely reversed in tumor-bearing mice, resembling the M2-polarized profile found in the microenvironment of the growing tumor. Importantly, VAT Tregs, which are commonly decreased in obese mice, were significantly increased in the presence of breast tumors and displayed significantly higher levels of Foxp3, indicating a regulatory feedback mechanism triggered by tumor growth. Altogether, our results identify a complex reciprocal relationship between adipocytes, immune cells, and the tumor, which may modulate the immune macroenvironment that promotes breast cancer development in obesity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aleida Núñez-Ruiz
- Departamento de Inmunología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, UNAM, México City, México
| | - Flor Sánchez-Brena
- Departamento de Inmunología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, UNAM, México City, México
| | - Cynthia López-Pacheco
- Departamento de Inmunología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, UNAM, México City, México
- Laboratorio Nacional de Citometría de Flujo, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, UNAM, México City, México
| | | | - Gloria Soldevila
- Departamento de Inmunología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, UNAM, México City, México
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Yu Z, Cheng L, Liu X, Zhang L, Cao H. Increased Expression of INHBA Is Correlated With Poor Prognosis and High Immune Infiltrating Level in Breast Cancer. FRONTIERS IN BIOINFORMATICS 2022; 2:729902. [PMID: 36304286 PMCID: PMC9580937 DOI: 10.3389/fbinf.2022.729902] [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: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Inhibin, beta A (INHBA) is a member of the transforming growth factor-β superfamily and is associated with carcinogenesis and cancer progression in several types of human cancers. However, its significance in breast cancer has not been evaluated. Here, we investigated the prognostic value of INHBA and its correlation with tumor-infiltration immune cells in the microenvironment of breast cancer. Methods: In this study, we analyzed the INHBA expression profile in the Oncomine database and Tumor Immune Estimation Resource 2.0 (TIMER2.0) site. Using Breast Cancer Gene-Expression Miner (bc-GenExMiner v4.7) tool and the UALCAN cancer database, we further evaluated the correlation of INHBA expression with clinicopathological factors in breast cancer. Then, we assessed the clinical prognostic value of INHBA using Kaplan–Meier Plotter and the PrognoScan databases. The correlations between INHBA and tumor-infiltrating immune cells were investigated via TIMER2.0. In addition, correlations between INHBA expression and gene markers of immune infiltrates were analyzed by TIMER2.0 and Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis 2. Results: Compared with the level in normal tissues, the INHBA mRNA expression was upregulated in different subtypes of breast cancer, and its expression was positively correlated with progesterone receptor, human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 status, and PAM50 subtypes but negatively related to age and basal-like status. The INHBA protein was also highly expressed in primary breast cancer and closely related to the pathological stage. Patients with high INHBA expression levels showed worse overall survival, relapse-free survival, and distant metastasis-free survival. Also, high INHBA expression was significantly associated with worse overall survival and relapse-free survival in positive lymph nodes. Of interest, INHBA expression was negatively correlated with infiltrating levels of activated NK cells, NKT, and CD4+ T cells but was positively correlated with tumor infiltration of CD8+ T cells, neutrophils, especially macrophages and cancer-associated fibroblasts. Moreover, INHBA expression showed strong correlations with various markers of monocytes/macrophages and cancer-associated fibroblasts. Conclusion: High INHBA expression is correlated with poor prognosis and the infiltration of immune cells in the tumor microenvironment. These findings suggest that INHBA may be involved in immune escape and can serve as a potential biomarker of prognosis and tumor-infiltrating immune cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zeying Yu
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Science, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
| | - Li Cheng
- School of Basic Medical Science, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
| | - Xinlian Liu
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
| | - Lushun Zhang
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
| | - Hui Cao
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Hui Cao,
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Zhang Z, Lin Q, Chen Y, Su C, Lin W, Wei D, Zhang L, Liu H. Prognostic Evaluation of Metastasis-Related Lymphocyte/Monocyte Ratio in Stage Ⅰ-Ⅲ Breast Cancer Receiving Chemotherapy. Front Oncol 2022; 11:782383. [PMID: 35399820 PMCID: PMC8987500 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.782383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study aims to clarify the prognostic significance of metastasis-related indicators in peripheral blood in stage I-III breast cancer (BC). Methods The clinicopathological data of 938 breast cancer patients and 509 benign breast disease patients were retrospectively analyzed, and fasting blood samples were collected before treatment. Univariate and multivariate regression analyses were used to evaluate factors related to metastasis risk and prognosis. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to generate survival curves, and the log-rank test was used to measure differences in survival between groups. Results Use the cut-off value (3.433) of LMR, the logistic regression analysis revealed that high carbohydrate antigen 153 (CA153), carbohydrate antigen 125 (CA125), carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), killer T cell level, and low lymphocyte to monocyte ratio (LMR) level were significantly associated with BC distant metastasis. In contrast, LMR>=3.433 (HR: 0.409, 95%CI: 0.193–0.867, P = 0.020), Th/Tc ratio >=1.946 (HR: 0.378, 95% CI: 0.158–0.904, P =0.029) is regarded as a protective factor in the multivariate cox analyses. LMR is an independent prognostic factor for DFS in HER2-negative BC patients. Conclusion Peripheral blood parameters play an important role in predicting distant metastasis and prognosis of BC patients. As a potential marker, LMR can predict the metastasis and prognosis of patients with stage I-III BC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zihan Zhang
- Department of Research, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, China
| | - Qian Lin
- Development Planning Office, Guangxi Medical University , Nanning, China
| | - Yi Chen
- Department of Research, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, China
| | - Chenlin Su
- Department of Research, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, China
| | - Wuye Lin
- Department of Research, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, China
| | - Daoyu Wei
- Department of Research, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, China
| | - Litu Zhang
- Department of Research, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, China
- Department of Research, Guangxi Cancer Molecular Medicine Engineering Research Center, Nanning, China
| | - Haizhou Liu
- Department of Research, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, China
- Department of Research, Guangxi Cancer Molecular Medicine Engineering Research Center, Nanning, China
- *Correspondence: Haizhou Liu,
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Yan B, Xiong J, Ye Q, Xue T, Xiang J, Xu M, Li F, Wen W. Correlation and prognostic implications of intratumor and tumor draining lymph node Foxp3 + T regulatory cells in colorectal cancer. BMC Gastroenterol 2022; 22:122. [PMID: 35296257 PMCID: PMC8925044 DOI: 10.1186/s12876-022-02205-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prognostic value of intratumor T regulatory cells (Tregs) in colorectal cancer (CRC) was previously reported, but the role of these cells in tumor draining lymph nodes (TDLNs) was less addressed. METHODS A total of 150 CRC stages I-IV were retrospectively enrolled. Intratumor and TDLN Tregs were examined by immunohistochemical assay. The association of these cells was estimated by Pearson correlation. Survival analyses of subgroups were conducted by Kaplan-Meier curves, and the log-rank test and risk factors for survival were tested by the Cox proportional hazard model. RESULTS High accumulation of Tregs in tumors was significant in patients with younger age and good histological grade, where enrichment of these cells in TDLNs was more apparent in those with node-negative disease and early TNM stage disease, both of which were more common in early T stage cases. A significant correlation of intratumoral and TDLN Tregs was detected. Patients with higher intratumoral Tregs displayed significantly better PFS and OS than those with lower Tregs. However, no such differences were found, but a similar prognostic prediction trend was found for these cells in TDLNs. Finally, intratumoral Tregs were an independent prognostic factor for both PFS (HR = 0.97, 95% CI 0.95-0.99, P < 0.01) and OS (HR = 0.98, 95% CI 0.95-1.00, P = 0.04) in the patients. CONCLUSIONS Higher intratumor Tregs were associated with better survival in CRC. Although no such role was found for these cells in TDLNs, the positive correlation and similar prognostic prediction trend with their intratumoral counterparts may indicate a parallelized function of these cells in CRC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bing Yan
- Department of Oncology, Hainan Hospital of Chinese PLA General Hospital, No. 80 of Jianglin Road, Haitang District of Sanya City, Hainan province, 572000, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianmei Xiong
- Department of Neurology, Hainan Hospital of Chinese PLA General Hospital, No. 80 of Jianglin Road, Haitang District of Sanya City, Hainan Province, 572000, People's Republic of China
| | - Qianwen Ye
- Department of Oncology, Hainan Hospital of Chinese PLA General Hospital, No. 80 of Jianglin Road, Haitang District of Sanya City, Hainan province, 572000, People's Republic of China
| | - Tianhui Xue
- Department of Oncology, Hainan Hospital of Chinese PLA General Hospital, No. 80 of Jianglin Road, Haitang District of Sanya City, Hainan province, 572000, People's Republic of China
| | - Jia Xiang
- Department of Oncology, Hainan Hospital of Chinese PLA General Hospital, No. 80 of Jianglin Road, Haitang District of Sanya City, Hainan province, 572000, People's Republic of China
| | - Mingyue Xu
- Department of General Surgery, Hainan Hospital of Chinese PLA General Hospital, No. 80 of Jianglin Road, Haitang District of Sanya City, Hainan Province, 572000, People's Republic of China
| | - Fang Li
- Department of Oncology, Hainan Hospital of Chinese PLA General Hospital, No. 80 of Jianglin Road, Haitang District of Sanya City, Hainan province, 572000, People's Republic of China.
| | - Wei Wen
- Department of General Surgery, Hainan Hospital of Chinese PLA General Hospital, No. 80 of Jianglin Road, Haitang District of Sanya City, Hainan Province, 572000, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Yoon YN, Lee E, Kwon YJ, Gim JA, Kim TJ, Kim JS. PI3Kδ/γ inhibitor BR101801 extrinsically potentiates effector CD8 + T cell-dependent antitumor immunity and abscopal effect after local irradiation. J Immunother Cancer 2022; 10:jitc-2021-003762. [PMID: 35288465 PMCID: PMC8921929 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2021-003762] [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] [Accepted: 02/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Radiotherapy enhances antitumor immunity. However, it also induces immunosuppressive responses, which are major hurdles for an effective treatment. Thus, targeting the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment is essential for enhancing the antitumor immunity after radiotherapy. Retrospective studies show that a blockade of PI3Kδ and/or γ, which are abundant in leukocytes, exhibits antitumor immune response by attenuating activity of immune suppressive cells, however, the single blockade of PI3Kδ or γ is not sufficient to completely eliminate solid tumor. METHODS We used BR101801, PI3Kδ/γ inhibitor in the CT-26 syngeneic mouse model with a subcutaneously implanted tumor. BR101801 was administered daily, and the target tumor site was locally irradiated. We monitored the tumor growth regularly and evaluated the immunological changes using flow cytometry, ELISpot, and transcriptional analysis. RESULTS This study showed that BR101801 combined with irradiation promotes systemic antitumor immunity and abscopal response by attenuating the activity of immune suppressive cells in the CT-26 tumor model. BR101801 combined with irradiation systemically reduced the proliferation of regulatory T cells (Tregs) and enhanced the number of tumor-specific CD8α+ T cells in the tumor microenvironment, thereby leading to tumor regression. Furthermore, the high ratio of CD8α+ T cells to Tregs was maintained for 14 days after irradiation, resulting in remote tumor regression in metastatic lesions, the so-called abscopal effect. Moreover, our transcriptomic analysis showed that BR101801 combined with irradiation promoted the immune-stimulatory tumor microenvironment, suggesting that the combined therapy converts immunologically cold tumors into hot one. CONCLUSIONS Our data suggest the first evidence that PI3Kδ/γ inhibition combined with irradiation promotes systemic antitumor immunity against solid tumors, providing the preclinical result of the potential use of PI3Kδ/γ inhibitor as an immune-regulatory radiosensitizer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi Na Yoon
- Division of Radiation Biomedical Research, Korea Institute of Radiological & Medical Sciences, Nowon-gu, Seoul, The Republic of Korea
| | - Eunju Lee
- Division of Radiation Biomedical Research, Korea Institute of Radiological & Medical Sciences, Nowon-gu, Seoul, The Republic of Korea.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seongbuk-gu, The Republic of Korea
| | - Young-Ju Kwon
- Division of Radiation Biomedical Research, Korea Institute of Radiological & Medical Sciences, Nowon-gu, Seoul, The Republic of Korea.,Radiological and Medico-Oncological Sciences, University of Science and Technology, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, The Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong-An Gim
- Medical Science Research Center, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, The Republic of Korea
| | - Tae-Jin Kim
- Division of Radiation Biomedical Research, Korea Institute of Radiological & Medical Sciences, Nowon-gu, Seoul, The Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Sung Kim
- Division of Radiation Biomedical Research, Korea Institute of Radiological & Medical Sciences, Nowon-gu, Seoul, The Republic of Korea .,Radiological and Medico-Oncological Sciences, University of Science and Technology, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, The Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Li T, Liu T, Zhao Z, Xu X, Zhan S, Zhou S, Jiang N, Zhu W, Sun R, Wei F, Feng B, Guo H, Yang R. The Lymph Node Microenvironment May Invigorate Cancer Cells With Enhanced Metastatic Capacities. Front Oncol 2022; 12:816506. [PMID: 35295999 PMCID: PMC8918682 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.816506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer metastasis, a typical malignant biological behavior involving the distant migration of tumor cells from the primary site to other organs, contributed majorly to cancer-related deaths of patients. Although constant efforts have been paid by researchers to elucidate the mechanisms of cancer metastasis, we are still far away from the definite answer. Recently, emerging evidence demonstrated that cancer metastasis is a continuous coevolutionary process mediated by the interactions between tumor cells and the host organ microenvironment, and epigenetic reprogramming of metastatic cancer cells may confer them with stronger metastatic capacities. The lymph node served as the first metastatic niche for many types of cancer, and the appearance of lymph node metastasis predicted poor prognosis. Importantly, multiple immune cells and stromal cells station and linger in the lymph nodes, which constitutes the complexity of the lymph node microenvironment. The active cross talk between cancer cells and immune cells could happen unceasingly within the metastatic environment of lymph nodes. Of note, diverse immune cells have been found to participate in the formation of malignant properties of tumor, including stemness and immune escape. Based on these available evidence and data, we hypothesize that the metastatic microenvironment of lymph nodes could drive cancer cells to metastasize to further organs through epigenetic mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tianhang Li
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Tianyao Liu
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zihan Zhao
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xinyan Xu
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shoubin Zhan
- Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for MicroRNA Biology and Biotechnology, State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shengkai Zhou
- Jiangsu Engineering Research Center for MicroRNA Biology and Biotechnology, State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ning Jiang
- Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Jiangsu University, Nanjing, China
| | - Wenjie Zhu
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Rui Sun
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Fayun Wei
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Baofu Feng
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hongqian Guo
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Rong Yang
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Hu X, Luo B, Wu Q, Chen Q, Lu P, Huang J, Liang X, Ling C, Li Y. Effects of Dezocine and Sufentanil on Th1/Th2 Balance in Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Surgery. Drug Des Devel Ther 2021; 15:4925-4938. [PMID: 34880602 PMCID: PMC8648097 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s326891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is very important for breast cancer patients undergoing surgery to choose an opioid that has little effect on the immune system. The aim of this study is to compare the effects of dezocine or sufentanil on postoperative pain and Th1/Th2 balance in patients undergoing breast cancer surgery. METHODS Data from 92 breast cancer patients from January 2019 to July 2020 at Foshan Second People's Hospital (Guangdong, China) were analyzed. Sufentanil (SF) was used in group SF (n = 44) and dezocine (DE) in group DE (n = 48). The Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores were assessed, and the percentages of Th1 cells and Th2 cells in peripheral blood were detected before anesthesia and at 2, 12, 24, and 48 hours after surgery. RESULTS There was no significant difference in the VAS scores between the two groups at 2, 24, and 48 hours after surgery (P > 0.05). The VAS scores at 12 hours after surgery in group DE were significantly lower than those in group SF with a statistically significant difference (P < 0.05). The percentage of Th1 cells in group DE at 2, 12, 24, and 48 hours after surgery was significantly lower than that in group SF (P < 0.05). The percentage of Th2 cells in group DE at 2, 12, 24, and 48 hours after surgery was significantly lower than that in group SF (P < 0.05). The Th1/Th2 ratio at 2, 12, 24, and 48 hours after surgery was significantly higher in group DE than that in group SF (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION Dezocine for anesthesia induction and postoperative analgesia can maintain the balance of Th1/Th2 more stable than, with the same analgesia efficacy as, sufentanil during the early postoperative period in breast cancer patients undergoing surgery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xudong Hu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second People’s Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, Guangdong, 528000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Bing Luo
- Department of Surgery, The Second People’s Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, Guangdong, 528000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qing Wu
- Department of Surgery, The Second People’s Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, Guangdong, 528000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qingbiao Chen
- Department of Surgery, The Second People’s Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, Guangdong, 528000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Penghui Lu
- Department of Surgery, The Second People’s Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, Guangdong, 528000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jie Huang
- Clinical Laboratory, The Second People’s Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, Guangdong, 528000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaoxia Liang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second People’s Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, Guangdong, 528000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Cheng Ling
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second People’s Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, Guangdong, 528000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yiqun Li
- Department of Surgery, The Second People’s Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, Guangdong, 528000, People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Decker JT, Ma JA, Shea LD, Jeruss JS. Implications of TGFβ Signaling and CDK Inhibition for the Treatment of Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:5343. [PMID: 34771508 PMCID: PMC8582459 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13215343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
TGFβ signaling enacts tumor-suppressive functions in normal cells through promotion of several cell regulatory actions including cell-cycle control and apoptosis. Canonical TGFβ signaling proceeds through phosphorylation of the transcription factor, SMAD3, at the C-terminus of the protein. During oncogenic progression, this tumor suppressant phosphorylation of SMAD3 can be inhibited. Overexpression of cyclins D and E, and subsequent hyperactivation of cyclin-dependent kinases 2/4 (CDKs), are often observed in breast cancer, and have been associated with poor prognosis. The noncanonical phosphorylation of SMAD3 by CDKs 2 and 4 leads to the inhibition of tumor-suppressive function of SMAD3. As a result, CDK overactivation drives oncogenic progression, and can be targeted to improve clinical outcomes. This review focuses on breast cancer, and highlights advances in the understanding of CDK-mediated noncanonical SMAD3 phosphorylation. Specifically, the role of aberrant TGFβ signaling in oncogenic progression and treatment response will be examined to illustrate the potential for therapeutic discovery in the context of cyclins/CDKs and SMAD3.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joseph T. Decker
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; (J.T.D.); (J.A.M.); (L.D.S.)
| | - Jeffrey A. Ma
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; (J.T.D.); (J.A.M.); (L.D.S.)
| | - Lonnie D. Shea
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; (J.T.D.); (J.A.M.); (L.D.S.)
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-5932, USA
| | - Jacqueline S. Jeruss
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; (J.T.D.); (J.A.M.); (L.D.S.)
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-5932, USA
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Wan Kamarul Zaman WS, Nurul AA, Nordin F. Stem Cells and Cancer Stem Cells: The Jekyll and Hyde Scenario and Their Implications in Stem Cell Therapy. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9091245. [PMID: 34572431 PMCID: PMC8468168 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9091245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
"Jekyll and Hyde" refers to persons with an unpredictably dual personality, who are battling between good and evil within themselves In this regard, even cells consist of good and evil counterparts. Normal stem cells (NSCs) and cancer stem cells (CSCs) are two types of cells that share some similar characteristics but have distinct functions that play a major role in physiological and pathophysiological development. In reality, NSCs such as the adult and embryonic stem cells, are the good cells and the ultimate treatment used in cell therapy. CSCs are the corrupted cells that are a subpopulation of cancer cells within the cancer microenvironment that grow into a massive tumour or malignancy that needs to be treated. Hence, understanding the connection between NSCs and CSCs is important not just in cancer development but also in their therapeutic implication, which is the focus of this review.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wan Safwani Wan Kamarul Zaman
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
- Centre for Innovation in Medical Engineering (CIME), Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
- Correspondence:
| | - Asma Abdullah Nurul
- School of Health Science, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian 16150, Kelantan, Malaysia;
| | - Fazlina Nordin
- Centre for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine (CTERM), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, UKM, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia;
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Zahran AM, El-Badawy O, Kamel LM, Rayan A, Rezk K, Abdel-Rahim MH. Accumulation of Regulatory T Cells in Triple Negative Breast Cancer Can Boost Immune Disruption. Cancer Manag Res 2021; 13:6019-6029. [PMID: 34377021 PMCID: PMC8349183 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s285128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim The present study was conducted to evaluate the number of Tregs in triple negative breast cancer (TNBC), in normal breast parenchyma and in the peripheral blood of these patients and controls, in addition to their correlations with the clinico-pathologic features and the outcomes of TNBC. Methods Thirty adult treatment-naïve women with non-metastatic TNBC were recruited. In addition, 20 ages matched healthy females participated as a control group. Peripheral blood samples were collected from all participants in tubes containing heparin, fresh tumor tissues were also obtained from all patients undergoing surgery, and 20 normal breast tissue samples were obtained from the same patients’ areas adjacent to the safety margins; all these samples were taken for flow cytometric detection of Tregs. Results The mean percentages of CD4+CD25+highT cells and Tregs were higher in TNBC peripheral blood than healthy controls and in malignant tissue than normal tissue. Moreover, the frequencies of tumor-infiltrating CD4+T cells and Tregs were exceeding those in the peripheral blood of cancer patients. Only tumor-infiltrating Tregs have shown increasing levels with the increase in the tumor size and were significantly higher in patients with local recurrences than those without recurrence. In addition, Tregs showed significant inverse relation with DFS and direct relation with the level of the peripheral Tregs. Conclusion The findings of the current study support the possibility that TNBC microenvironment conveys specific characteristics on Tregs distinguishing them from those in normal breast tissue or Tregs in peripheral blood, improving the capabilities of tumor-infiltrating Tregs to enhance tumor growth, local recurrence and reduce the DFS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Asmaa M Zahran
- Department of Clinical Pathology, South Egypt Cancer Institute, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Omnia El-Badawy
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Lamiaa M Kamel
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Amal Rayan
- Clinical Oncology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Khalid Rezk
- Surgical Oncology Department, South Egypt Cancer Institute, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Mona H Abdel-Rahim
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Lei MML, Lee TKW. Cancer Stem Cells: Emerging Key Players in Immune Evasion of Cancers. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:692940. [PMID: 34235155 PMCID: PMC8257022 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.692940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are subpopulations of undifferentiated cancer cells within the tumor bulk that are responsible for tumor initiation, recurrence and therapeutic resistance. The enhanced ability of CSCs to give rise to new tumors suggests potential roles of these cells in the evasion of immune surveillance. A growing body of evidence has described the interplay between CSCs and immune cells within the tumor microenvironment (TME). Recent data have shown the pivotal role of some major immune cells in driving the expansion of CSCs, which concurrently elicit evasion of the detection and destruction of various immune cells through a number of distinct mechanisms. Here, we will discuss the role of immune cells in driving the stemness of cancer cells and provide evidence of how CSCs evade immune surveillance by exerting their effects on tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), dendritic cells (DCs), myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), T-regulatory (Treg) cells, natural killer (NK) cells, and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs). The knowledge gained from the interaction between CSCs and various immune cells will provide insight into the mechanisms by which tumors evade immune surveillance. In conclusion, CSC-targeted immunotherapy emerges as a novel immunotherapy strategy against cancer by disrupting the interaction between immune cells and CSCs in the TME.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martina Mang Leng Lei
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Terence Kin Wah Lee
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong.,State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Kern R, Panis C. CTLA-4 Expression and Its Clinical Significance in Breast Cancer. Arch Immunol Ther Exp (Warsz) 2021; 69:16. [PMID: 34148159 DOI: 10.1007/s00005-021-00618-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer is the leading cause of women's death among all cancers. The main reason associated with this is the development of metastasis and therapy-resistant breast carcinoma (BC), which pose the main challenge of oncology nowadays. Evidence suggest that these tumors seem to have inhibitory mechanisms that may favor their progression and surveillance. Cancer cells can evade antitumor T cell responses by expressing some immune inhibitory molecules such as the cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen-4 (CTLA-4), whose clinical meaning has emerged in the last few years and is poorly understood in the BC context. This systematic literature review aims at identifying studies on CTLA-4 expression in BC, and address what is known about its clinical meaning. A literature search was performed in PubMed and LILACS databases, using the MESH terms "breast cancer"; "CTLA-4 Antigen/antagonists and inhibitors"; and "Lymphocytes, Tumor-Infiltrating/immunology", published in the last 10 years. In total, 12 studies were included in this review. Systematic review used the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. Despite the small number of eligible studies, the literature reports some associations between CTLA-4 expression in the tumor microenvironment and worse BC outcomes, regardless of its molecular subtype. CTLA-4 expression in BC is a putative marker of clinical significance and a rationale therapeutic target in the emerging field of immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo Kern
- Laboratory of Tumor Biology, State University of West Paraná, UNIOESTE, Francisco Beltrão, Brazil
| | - Carolina Panis
- Laboratory of Tumor Biology, State University of West Paraná, UNIOESTE, Francisco Beltrão, Brazil.
- State University of Western Paraná, Health Sciences Center, Vitório Traiano Highway, Km 2, Francisco Beltrão, PR, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Nelson MA, Ngamcherdtrakul W, Luoh SW, Yantasee W. Prognostic and therapeutic role of tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte subtypes in breast cancer. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2021; 40:519-536. [PMID: 33963482 PMCID: PMC8424653 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-021-09968-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Increased levels of total tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) are generally associated with good prognosis in several breast cancer subtypes. Subtypes of TILs impact both tumor cells and immune cells in a variety of different ways, leading to either a pro-tumor or antitumor effect. Tumor-infiltrating CD8+ T cells and natural killer (NK) cells perform as effector cells against tumor cells and are associated with better clinical outcome. Immunotherapy approaches that improve the antitumor activity and proliferation of CD8+ T and NK cells include PD-1/PD-L1 blockade, CAR T cell therapy, or ex vivo-stimulated NK cells. A subset of CD8+ T cells, tissue-resident memory T cells, has also recently been associated with good prognosis in breast cancer patients, and has potential to serve as a predictive biomarker and therapeutic target. Tumor-infiltrating B cells also secrete apoptosis-inducing IgG antibodies and can act as antigen-presenting cells to prime CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. On the other hand, regulatory T and regulatory B cells modulate the immune response from CD8+ T cells and NK cells by secreting immunosuppressive cytokines and inhibiting maturation of antigen-presenting cells (APCs). These regulatory cells are typically associated with poor prognosis, therefore rendering suppression of their regulatory function a key immunotherapeutic strategy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Shiuh-Wen Luoh
- VA Portland Health Care System, Knight Cancer Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Wassana Yantasee
- PDX Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Portland, OR, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Kreps LM, Addison CL. Targeting Intercellular Communication in the Bone Microenvironment to Prevent Disseminated Tumor Cell Escape from Dormancy and Bone Metastatic Tumor Growth. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22062911. [PMID: 33805598 PMCID: PMC7998601 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22062911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2021] [Revised: 03/06/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Metastasis to the bone is a common feature of many cancers including those of the breast, prostate, lung, thyroid and kidney. Once tumors metastasize to the bone, they are essentially incurable. Bone metastasis is a complex process involving not only intravasation of tumor cells from the primary tumor into circulation, but extravasation from circulation into the bone where they meet an environment that is generally suppressive of their growth. The bone microenvironment can inhibit the growth of disseminated tumor cells (DTC) by inducing dormancy of the DTC directly and later on following formation of a micrometastatic tumour mass by inhibiting metastatic processes including angiogenesis, bone remodeling and immunosuppressive cell functions. In this review we will highlight some of the mechanisms mediating DTC dormancy and the complex relationships which occur between tumor cells and bone resident cells in the bone metastatic microenvironment. These inter-cellular interactions may be important targets to consider for development of novel effective therapies for the prevention or treatment of bone metastases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lauren M. Kreps
- Cancer Therapeutics Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada;
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada
| | - Christina L. Addison
- Cancer Therapeutics Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada;
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-613-737-7700
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Scott EN, Gocher AM, Workman CJ, Vignali DAA. Regulatory T Cells: Barriers of Immune Infiltration Into the Tumor Microenvironment. Front Immunol 2021; 12:702726. [PMID: 34177968 PMCID: PMC8222776 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.702726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are key immunosuppressive cells that promote tumor growth by hindering the effector immune response. Tregs utilize multiple suppressive mechanisms to inhibit pro-inflammatory responses within the tumor microenvironment (TME) by inhibition of effector function and immune cell migration, secretion of inhibitory cytokines, metabolic disruption and promotion of metastasis. In turn, Tregs are being targeted in the clinic either alone or in combination with other immunotherapies, in efforts to overcome the immunosuppressive TME and increase anti-tumor effects. However, it is now appreciated that Tregs not only suppress cells intratumorally via direct engagement, but also serve as key interactors in the peritumor, stroma, vasculature and lymphatics to limit anti-tumor immune responses prior to tumor infiltration. We will review the suppressive mechanisms that Tregs utilize to alter immune and non-immune cells outside and within the TME and discuss how these mechanisms collectively allow Tregs to create and promote a physical and biological barrier, resulting in an immune-excluded or limited tumor microenvironment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ellen N Scott
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States.,Tumor Microenvironment Center, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, United States.,Graduate Program of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Angela M Gocher
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States.,Tumor Microenvironment Center, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Creg J Workman
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States.,Tumor Microenvironment Center, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Dario A A Vignali
- Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, United States.,Tumor Microenvironment Center, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, United States.,Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy Program, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Du Y, Fang Q, Zheng SG. Regulatory T Cells: Concept, Classification, Phenotype, and Biological Characteristics. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1278:1-31. [PMID: 33523440 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-15-6407-9_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Treg) play an indispensable role in maintaining the body's immune nonresponse to self-antigens and suppressing the body's unwarranted and potentially harmful immune responses. Their absence, reduction, dysfunction, transformation, and instability can lead to numerous autoimmune diseases. There are several distinct subtypes of the Treg cells, although they share certain biological characteristics and have unique phenotypes with different regulatory functions, as well as mechanistic abilities. In this book chapter, we introduce the latest advances in Treg cell subtypes pertaining to classification, phenotype, biological characteristics, and mechanisms. We also highlight the relationship between Treg cells and various diseases, including autoimmune, infectious, as well as tumors and organ transplants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yang Du
- Department of Pathology and Physiopathology, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, Guangxi, China.,Laboratory of Tumor Immunology and Microenvironmental Regulation, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, Guangxi, China
| | - Qiannan Fang
- Department of Clinical Immunology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Song-Guo Zheng
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ohio State University College of Medicine and Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA.
| |
Collapse
|