1
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Patient-derived spheroids and patient-derived organoids simulate evolutions of lung cancer. Heliyon 2023; 9:e13829. [PMID: 36895411 PMCID: PMC9988482 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e13829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer cells harbor many genetic mutations and gene expression profiles different from normal cells. Patient-derived cancer cells (PDCC) are preferred materials in cancer study. We established patient-derived spheroids (PDSs) and patient-derived organoids (PDOs) from PDCCs isolated from the malignant pleural effusion in 8 patients. The morphologies suggested that PDSs may be a model of local cancer extensions, while PDOs may be a model of distant cancer metastases. The gene expression profiles differed between PDSs and PDOs: Gene sets related to inflammatory responses and EMT were antithetically regulated in PDSs or in PDOs. PDSs demonstrated an attenuation of the pathways that contribute to the enhancement of transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) induced epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT), while PDOs demonstrated an attenuation of it. Taken together, PDSs and PDOs have differences in both the interaction to the immune systems and to the stroma. PDSs and PDOs will provide a model system that enable intimate investigation of the behavior of cancer cells in the body.
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2
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SEMA4D Knockdown Attenuates β-Catenin-Dependent Tumor Progression in Colorectal Cancer. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 2021:8507373. [PMID: 34337054 PMCID: PMC8321723 DOI: 10.1155/2021/8507373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Semaphorin 4D (SEMA4D), a protein originally demonstrated to regulate the immune system and axonal growth cone collapse in the developing central nervous system, is overexpressed in various human malignancies, including colorectal cancer (CRC). This investigation was undertaken to examine the effects of SEMA4D silencing on the biological properties of the CRC cell line. SW48 cells were transfected with a siRNA-targeting SEMA4D. The mRNA expression of underlying pro- and antiapoptotic proteins including Bax, Bcl-2, P53, and caspase-3, cancer stem cell (CSC) markers, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers, MMP-2, and MMP-9 was examined using qRT-PCR. Further, the protein expression of E-cadherin and β-catenin was confirmed by Western blot. SW48 cell migration and MMP activity were detected using scratch and zymography analysis, respectively. Finally, the apoptosis rate was assessed via the flowcytometry test. SEMA4D knock-down was associated with a considerable suppression of in vitro cell viability, EMT-related genes, CSC markers, β-catenin signaling pathway, sphere-forming, cell migration, and MMP-2 activity as well as induction of apoptosis. This study identifies the inhibitory effects of SEMA4D gene silencing on tumor progression. Thereby, this might conclude a possible alternative to cancer therapy by targeting several prominent pathways involved in cancer through SEMA4D suppression.
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3
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Rasti A, Madjd Z, Saeednejad Zanjani L, Babashah S, Abolhasani M, Asgari M, Mehrazma M. SMAD4 Expression in Renal Cell Carcinomas Correlates With a Stem-Cell Phenotype and Poor Clinical Outcomes. Front Oncol 2021; 11:581172. [PMID: 34012911 PMCID: PMC8127783 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.581172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is the most lethal neoplasm of common urologic cancers with poor prognoses. SMAD4 has a principal role in TGF-β (Transformis growth factorβ)-induced epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) as a key factor in gaining cancer stem cell (CSC) features and tumor aggressiveness. This study aimed to evaluate the expression patterns and clinical significance of SMAD4 in RCC and the impact of its targeting on stem cell/mesenchymal cells and EMT characteristics in renal spheroid derived cells (SDCs) compared to parental cells (PCs) in RCC. The expression pattern and clinical significance of SMAD4 was evaluated in RCC. SDCs were enriched using a sphere culture system. Then SDCs and their PCs were compared with respect to their sphere and colony formation, expression of putative CSC markers, invasiveness as well as expression of genes, including stemness/mesenchymal, SMAD4 and TGFβ1genes. Finally, the effect of SMAD4 knockdown on SDCs was analyzed. We demonstrated that SMAD4 is positively correlated with decreased disease specific survival (DSS) in RCC patients and clear cell RCC (ccRCC) subtype and associates with poor DSS in patients with RCC, especially in ccRCC as the most metastatic RCC subtype. SDCs exhibited higher stem cell/mesenchymal properties. Inhibition of SMAD4 in PCs accelerated the dissociation of SDCs and decreased their clonogenicity, invasiveness, expression of mesenchymal markers and expression of SMAD4 and TGFβ1 genes compared to SDCs before transfection. We suggest that targeting SMAD4 may be useful against renal CSCs and may improve RCC prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arezoo Rasti
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran.,Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran.,Department of Basic Sciences/Medical Surgical Nursing, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Madjd
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran.,Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Sadegh Babashah
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University (TMU), Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Abolhasani
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran.,Hasheminejad Kidney Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Mojgan Asgari
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran.,Hasheminejad Kidney Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Mitra Mehrazma
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran.,Hasheminejad Kidney Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
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4
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Hu Z, Wu W, Zhang X, Li P, Zhang H, Wang H, Xue W, Chen Z, Zhao Q, Duan G. Advanced Lung Cancer Inflammation Index is a Prognostic Factor of Patients with Small-Cell Lung Cancer Following Surgical Resection. Cancer Manag Res 2021; 13:2047-2055. [PMID: 33664592 PMCID: PMC7924125 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s295952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Advanced lung cancer inflammation index (ALI) has been shown to predict overall survival (OS) in advanced non small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) and operable NSCLC. However, there were no studies of the correlation between ALI and operable SCLC. Therefore, this study is aimed to explore the relationship between ALI and the prognosis of operable SCLC. Patients and Methods A total of 48 patients with SCLC who underwent surgery at Hebei General Hospital and Zigong First People's Hospital were screened between 2016 and 2020. ALI was calculated as follows: body mass index (BMI, kg/m2)×serum albumin (ALB, g/dL)/neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to determine the optimal cutoff value of ALI. Patients were divided into two groups according to the cutoff point of ALI: low ALI group with ALI<48.2 and high ALI group with ALI≥48.2. Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression analysis were performed to assess the potential prognostic factors associated with OS. Results The optimal cutoff value of ALI was determined as 48.2. The low ALI group displayed more adverse clinical characteristics and poorer survival rates. Multivariate analysis revealed that ALI and Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) were significantly correlated with OS. Conclusion Low ALI was correlated with poor prognosis in patients with SCLC who underwent surgery. Preoperative ALI might serve as a potential prognostic marker for patients with operable SCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhonghui Hu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Hebei General Hospital, Shijiazhuang, People's Republic of China.,Graduate School, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenbo Wu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Hebei General Hospital, Shijiazhuang, People's Republic of China.,Graduate School, Hebei North University, Zhangjiakou, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaopeng Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Hebei General Hospital, Shijiazhuang, People's Republic of China
| | - Ping Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Zigong First People's Hospital, Zigong, People's Republic of China
| | - Hua Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Hebei General Hospital, Shijiazhuang, People's Republic of China
| | - Huien Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Hebei General Hospital, Shijiazhuang, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenfei Xue
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Hebei General Hospital, Shijiazhuang, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhiguo Chen
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Hebei Children's Hospital, Shijiazhuang, People's Republic of China
| | - Qingtao Zhao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Hebei General Hospital, Shijiazhuang, People's Republic of China
| | - Guochen Duan
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Hebei General Hospital, Shijiazhuang, People's Republic of China.,Department of Thoracic Surgery, Hebei Children's Hospital, Shijiazhuang, People's Republic of China
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5
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Gholamzadeh Khoei S, Saidijam M, Amini R, Jalali A, Najafi R. Impact of PIN1 Inhibition on Tumor Progression and Chemotherapy Sensitivity in Colorectal Cancer. J Gastrointest Cancer 2021; 53:299-310. [PMID: 33580870 DOI: 10.1007/s12029-021-00600-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Deregulated PIN1 is associated with cancer development and progression. Herein, for the first time, we evaluate the roles that PIN1 in tumorigenic characteristics of colorectal cancer (CRC) cells. METHODS In this study, PIN1 expression was knocked down in SW-48 cells by synthetic small interfering RNA (siRNA). After confirming the knockdown of PIN1, cell viability, colony formation, apoptosis, autophagy, cancer stem cell (CSC)-related genes, CSC-related signaling pathways, cell migration, and 5-FU chemosensitivity were evaluated in vitro. RESULTS Transfection of PIN1 siRNA into SW-48 cells inhibited cancer cell proliferation, migration, and increased apoptosis and autophagy. Transfected SW-48 cells had lower properties of CSCs through the inhibition of β-catenin and Notch1 gene expression. Moreover, inhibition of PIN1 enhanced the inhibitory effect of 5-FU on SW-48 cell proliferation. CONCLUSION Our results indicated that targeting of PIN1 serves as a promising therapeutic solution for the suppression of tumor progression processes in CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Massoud Saidijam
- Research Center for Molecular Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Razieh Amini
- Research Center for Molecular Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Akram Jalali
- Research Center for Molecular Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Rezvan Najafi
- Research Center for Molecular Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran.
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6
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Razi S, Sadeghi A, Asadi-Lari Z, Tam KJ, Kalantari E, Madjd Z. DCLK1, a promising colorectal cancer stem cell marker, regulates tumor progression and invasion through miR-137 and miR-15a dependent manner. Clin Exp Med 2020; 21:139-147. [PMID: 32965580 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-020-00665-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are thought to be a major player in tumor initiation, progression, and metastasis. Targeting CSCs for elimination presents a promising therapeutic strategy; however, this approach will require a stronger understanding of CSC biology and identification of CSC-specific markers. The present study was conducted to examine the correlation between DCLK1 and miR-137 and miR-15a levels in colorectal cancer. A total of 222 samples, including 181 colorectal cancer specimens, 24 adenomatosis, and 17 non-adenomatosis colonic polyps, were stained for DCLK1 expression using immunohistochemistry. Also, expression of miR-137 and miR-15a was assessed in colorectal cancer with high and low DCLK1 expression levels. Most colorectal cancer specimens (76%) showed strong expression of DCLK1, whereas only 21% of adenomatous and none of non-adenomatous colonic polyps showed strong DCLK1 expression. A significant difference in DCLK1 expression was found between colorectal cancer, adenomatous, and non-adenomatous colonic polyps (P < 0.001). Higher expression of DCLK1 was more frequently detected in colorectal cases with larger tumor size (P = 0.03), poor differentiation (P = 0.03), and lymph node involvement (P = 0.04). Comparison of miR-137 and miR-15a in colorectal cancer cases revealed a significant inverse correlation with DCLK1 expression (P = 0.03 and P = 0.04, respectively). DCLK1 may act as a candidate marker for colorectal cancer stem cells. The critical role of DCLK1 in colorectal cancer suggests that it may represent an early diagnostic marker and therapeutic target; however, further investigation is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sepideh Razi
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Asieh Sadeghi
- Department of Pathology, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Kevin J Tam
- Department of Urologic Sciences, Vancouver Prostate Centre, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Elham Kalantari
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Madjd
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. .,Department of Pathology, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. .,Department of Molecular Medicine, Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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7
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Wang SQ, Liu J, Qin J, Zhu Y, Tin VPC, Yam JWP, Wong MP, Xiao ZJ. CAMK2A supported tumor initiating cells of lung adenocarcinoma by upregulating SOX2 through EZH2 phosphorylation. Cell Death Dis 2020; 11:410. [PMID: 32483123 PMCID: PMC7264342 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-020-2553-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2019] [Revised: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Tumor initiating cells (TIC) of lung cancer are mainly induced by stress-related plasticity. Calcium/Calmodulin dependent protein kinase II alpha (CAMK2A) is a key calcium signaling molecule activated by exogenous and endogenous stimuli with effects on multiple cell functions but little is known about its role on TIC. In human lung adenocarcinomas (AD), CAMK2A was aberrantly activated in a proportion of cases and was an independent risk factor predicting shorter survivals. Functionally, CAMK2A enhanced TIC phenotypes in vitro and in vivo. CAMK2A regulated SOX2 expression by reducing H3K27me3 and EZH2 occupancy at SOX2 regulatory regions, leading to its epigenetic de-repression with functional consequences. Further, CAMK2A caused kinase-dependent phosphorylation of EZH2 at T487 with suppression of EZH2 activity. Together, the data demonstrated the CAMK2A-EZH2-SOX2 axis on TIC regulation. This study provided phenotypic and mechanistic evidence for the TIC supportive role of CAMK2A, implicating a novel predictive and therapeutic target for lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si-Qi Wang
- Department of Pathology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Jing Liu
- Department of Pathology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Jing Qin
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yun Zhu
- Department of Pathology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,Department of Pediatric Surgery, Guangzhou Institute of Pediatrics, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Vicky Pui-Chi Tin
- Department of Pathology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Judy Wai Ping Yam
- Department of Pathology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Maria Pik Wong
- Department of Pathology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Zhi-Jie Xiao
- Department of Pathology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
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8
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Saeednejad Zanjani L, Madjd Z, Rasti A, Asgari M, Abolhasani M, Tam KJ, Roudi R, Mælandsmo GM, Fodstad Ø, Andersson Y. Spheroid-Derived Cells From Renal Adenocarcinoma Have Low Telomerase Activity and High Stem-Like and Invasive Characteristics. Front Oncol 2019; 9:1302. [PMID: 31921617 PMCID: PMC6915099 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2019.01302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2019] [Accepted: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a theorized small subpopulation of cells within tumors thought to be responsible for metastasis, tumor development, disease progression, treatment-resistance, and recurrence. The identification, isolation, and biological characterization of CSCs may therefore facilitate the development of efficient therapeutic strategies targeting CSCs. This study aims to compare the biology and telomerase activity of CSCs to parental cells (PCs) in renal cancer. Renal CSCs were enriched from the ACHN cell line using a sphere culture system. Spheroid-derived cells (SDCs) and their adherent counterparts were compared with respect to their colony and sphere formation, expression of putative CSC markers, tumorigenicity in non-obese diabetic/severe combined immunodeficiency (NOD/SCID) mice, and invasiveness. The expression of genes associated with CSCs, stemness, EMT, apoptosis, and ABC transporters was also compared between the two populations using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). Finally, telomerase activity, hTERT expression, and sensitivity to MST-312, a telomerase inhibitor, was investigated between the two populations. We demonstrated that a subpopulation of ACHN cells was capable of growing as spheroids with many properties similar to CSCs, including higher clonogenicity, superior colony- and sphere-forming ability, and stronger tumorigenicity and invasiveness. In addition, SDCs demonstrated a higher expression of markers for CSCs, stemness, EMT, apoptosis, and ABC transporter genes compared to PCs. The expression of hTERT and telomerase activity in SDCs was significantly lower than PCs; however, the SDC population was more sensitive to MST-312 compared to PCs. These findings indicate that the SDC population exhibits stem-like potential and invasive characteristics. Moreover, the reduced expression of hTERT and telomerase activity in SDCs demonstrated that the expressions of hTERT and telomerase activity are not always higher in CSCs. Our results also showed that MST-312 treatment inhibited SDCs more strongly than PCs and may therefore be useful as a complementary targeted therapy against renal CSCs in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leili Saeednejad Zanjani
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran.,Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Madjd
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran.,Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Urologic Sciences, Vancouver Prostate Center, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Arezoo Rasti
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran.,Department of Basic Sciences/Medical Surgical Nursing, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mojgan Asgari
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran.,Hasheminejad Kidney Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Abolhasani
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran.,Hasheminejad Kidney Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Kevin J Tam
- Department of Urologic Sciences, Vancouver Prostate Center, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Raheleh Roudi
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Gunhild Mari Mælandsmo
- Department of Tumor Biology, Oslo University Hospital, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Øystein Fodstad
- Department of Tumor Biology, Oslo University Hospital, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Yvonne Andersson
- Department of Tumor Biology, Oslo University Hospital, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo, Norway
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9
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Kiratipaiboon C, Stueckle TA, Ghosh R, Rojanasakul LW, Chen YC, Dinu CZ, Rojanasakul Y. Acquisition of Cancer Stem Cell-like Properties in Human Small Airway Epithelial Cells after a Long-term Exposure to Carbon Nanomaterials. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE. NANO 2019; 6:2152-2170. [PMID: 31372228 PMCID: PMC6675031 DOI: 10.1039/c9en00183b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a key driver of tumor formation and metastasis, but how they are affected by nanomaterials is largely unknown. The present study investigated the effects of different carbon-based nanomaterials (CNMs) on neoplastic and CSC-like transformation of human small airway epithelial cells and determined the underlying mechanisms. Using a physiologically relevant exposure model (long-term/low-dose) with system validation using a human carcinogen, asbestos, we demonstrated that single-walled carbon nanotubes, multi-walled carbon nanotubes, ultrafine carbon black, and crocidolite asbestos induced particle-specific anchorage-independent colony formation, DNA-strand break, and p53 downregulation, indicating genotoxicity and carcinogenic potential of CNMs. The chronic CNM-exposed cells exhibited CSC-like properties as indicated by 3D spheroid formation, anoikis resistance, and CSC markers expression. Mechanistic studies revealed specific self-renewal and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related transcription factors that are involved in the cellular transformation process. Pathway analysis of gene signaling networks supports the role of SOX2 and SNAI1 signaling in CNM-mediated transformation. These findings support the potential carcinogenicity of high aspect ratio CNMs and identified molecular targets and signaling pathways that may contribute to the disease development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chayanin Kiratipaiboon
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia, 26506, United States
| | - Todd A Stueckle
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Morgantown, West Virginia, 26505, United States
| | - Rajib Ghosh
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia, 26506, United States
| | - Liying W Rojanasakul
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Morgantown, West Virginia, 26505, United States
| | - Yi Charlie Chen
- College of Science, Technology and Mathematics, Alderson Broaddus University, Philippi, West Virginia, 26416, United States
| | - Cerasela Zoica Dinu
- Department of Chemical Engineering, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia, 26506, United States
| | - Yon Rojanasakul
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and WVU Cancer Institute, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia, 26506, United States
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10
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Molecular epidemiology of lung cancer in Iran: implications for drug development and cancer prevention. J Hum Genet 2018; 63:783-794. [DOI: 10.1038/s10038-018-0450-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2017] [Revised: 01/20/2018] [Accepted: 03/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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11
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Korourian A, Roudi R, Shariftabrizi A, Madjd Z. MicroRNA-31 inhibits RhoA-mediated tumor invasion and chemotherapy resistance in MKN-45 gastric adenocarcinoma cells. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2017; 242:1842-1847. [PMID: 28836853 DOI: 10.1177/1535370217728460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
microRNAs are small single-stranded non-coding RNA molecules which modify gene expression by silencing potential target genes. The aberrant expression of RhoA, a small GTPase protein of Rho family, is involved in gastric cancer tumorigenesis. Since miR-31 is a pleomorphic molecule, we evaluated the miR-31/RhoA axis in inducing the malignant phenotype of gastric cancer cells MKN-45. Also, the clinicopathological significance of RhoA was investigated in a well-defined collection of gastric carcinomas which were embedded in tissue microarray blocks. Induction of miR-31 in MKN-45 followed by suppression of RhoA expression resulted in increased sensitivity to 5-fluorouracil, inhibition of cell proliferation, and invasion compared to the control groups. Immunohistochemical analysis in gastric adenocarcinoma patients' samples showed significantly higher expression of RhoA in diffuse versus intestinal subtype tumors ( P = 0.009), poorly differentiated versus well and moderately differentiated tumors ( P = 0.03) and the presence of vascular invasion versus the absence of vascular invasion ( P = 0.04). Our findings suggest a critical role for miR-31, as a tumor suppressor gene, in gastric cancer tumorigenesis by targeting the RhoA. Impact statement Gastric cancer ranks as the third leading cause of cancer-associated deaths worldwide. The RhoA gene encodes a small GTPase protein of Rho family (RhoA) that its dysregulation is associated with cell motility and invasion. A strong line of evidence supports the regulation of RhoA by a number of miRs, including miR-31 in tumors. Our findings revealed that miR-31 is involved in gastric cancer tumorigenesis as a tumor suppressor gene. Through down-regulation of RhoA, miR-31 decreased cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in gastric cancer cells. In addition, induction of miR-31 increased sensitivity to 5-FU; thus, increasing its tissue concentrations could be a potential target for treatment of gastric cancer in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alireza Korourian
- 1 Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 14496-14530, Iran
| | - Raheleh Roudi
- 2 Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 14496-14530, Iran
| | - Ahmad Shariftabrizi
- 3 Department of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA
| | - Zahra Madjd
- 1 Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 14496-14530, Iran.,2 Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 14496-14530, Iran
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12
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Roudi R, Ebrahimi M, Shariftabrizi A, Madjd Z. Cancer stem cell research in Iran: potentials and challenges. Future Oncol 2017; 13:1809-1826. [PMID: 28776391 DOI: 10.2217/fon-2017-0091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Treatment modalities can reduce cancer-related mortality; however, a majority of patients develop drug resistance, metastasis and relapse. It has been proposed that tumorigenic characteristics of tumors are related to a proportion of cancer cells, termed cancer stem cells (CSCs). Following the first evidence regarding the existence of CSC population in acute myeloid leukemia in 1997, publications in CSCs field showed an explosive trend in all cancer types around the world. First research paper in the field of CSCs in Iran was published in 2004 on prostate cancer. Subsequently, an annual number of publications in the field of CSCs displayed a rapidly growing trend. Therefore, in the current review, we have presented a comprehensive evaluation of the CSCs research in Iran.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raheleh Roudi
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Marzieh Ebrahimi
- Department of Stem Cells & Developmental Biology at Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology & Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ahmad Shariftabrizi
- Department of Nuclear Medicine & Molecular Imaging, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA
| | - Zahra Madjd
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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13
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Foroozan M, Roudi R, Abolhasani M, Gheytanchi E, Mehrazma M. Clinical significance of endothelial cell marker CD34 and mast cell marker CD117 in prostate adenocarcinoma. Pathol Res Pract 2017; 213:612-618. [PMID: 28552539 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2017.04.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2017] [Revised: 03/27/2017] [Accepted: 04/26/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Prostate cancer is the second cause of cancer-related deaths in men and this is attributed to its aggressiveness and metastatic identity. Our objective was to evaluate the expression patterns of endothelial cell marker CD34 and mast cell marker CD117 in prostate adenocarcinoma (PCa) compared to benign prostate tissue and their relation to the clinicopathological features. A total of 90 prostate samples, including 45 PCa and 45 benign prostate tissues were immunohistochemically examined for the detection of CD34 and CD117 markers. The expression of these markers was also correlated with clinicopathological parameters. Significant overexpression of CD34 was found in PCa group compared to benign prostate tissues (P≤0.001). The expression of CD34 and CD117 in PCa with advanced Gleason score was more than PCa with early Gleason score (P=0.02 and P=0.005, respectively). A significant positive correlation was observed between CD34 expression and the level of total serum prostate specific antigen (sPSA) (P=0.006). In addition, CD34High/CD117High phenotype was frequently observed in PCa cases compared to benign prostate tissues (P≤0.001). There was a positive significant association between CD34High/CD117High phenotype with advanced Gleason score (P≤0.001) and total sPSA level (P=0.02). Our findings showed that increased expression of CD34 and CD117 markers confer tumor progression and aggressiveness on PCa. These molecules may be good candidates for targeted therapy of PCa patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mozhdeh Foroozan
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Pathology, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Raheleh Roudi
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Abolhasani
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Pathology, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Elmira Gheytanchi
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mitra Mehrazma
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Pathology, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Mirza S, Jain N, Rawal R. Evidence for circulating cancer stem-like cells and epithelial-mesenchymal transition phenotype in the pleurospheres derived from lung adenocarcinoma using liquid biopsy. Tumour Biol 2017; 39:1010428317695915. [PMID: 28347243 DOI: 10.1177/1010428317695915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer stem cells are supposed to be the main drivers of tumor initiation, maintenance, drug resistance, and relapse of the disease. Hence, identification of the cellular and molecular aspects of these cells is a prerequisite for targeted therapy of lung cancer. Currently, analysis of circulating tumor cells has the potential to become the main diagnostic technique to monitor disease progression or therapeutic response as it is non-invasive. However, accurate detection of circulating tumor cells has remained a challenge, as epithelial cell markers used so far are not always trustworthy for detecting circulating tumor cells, especially during epithelial-mesenchymal transition. As cancer stem cells are the only culprit to initiate metastatic tumors, our aim was to isolate and characterize circulating tumor stem cells rather than circulating tumor cells from the peripheral blood of NSCLC adenocarcinoma as limited data are available addressing the gene expression profiling of lung cancer stem cells. Here, we reveal that CD44(+)/CD24(-) population in circulation not only exhibit stem cell-related genes but also possess epithelial-mesenchymal transition characteristics. In conclusion, the use of one or more cancer stem cell markers along with epithelial, mesenchymal and epithelial mesenchymal transition markers will prospectively provide the most precise assessment of the threat for recurrence and metastatic disease and has a great potential for forthcoming applications in harvesting circulating tumor stem cells and their downstream applications. Our results will aid in developing diagnostic and prognostic modalities and personalized treatment regimens like dendritic cell-based immunotherapy that can be utilized for targeting and eliminating circulating tumor stem cells, to significantly reduce the possibility of relapse and improve clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheefa Mirza
- 1 Department of Life Sciences, University School of Sciences, Gujarat University, Ahmedabad, India.,2 Division of Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacogenomics, Department of Cancer Biology, The Gujarat Cancer & Research Institute, Ahmedabad, India
| | - Nayan Jain
- 1 Department of Life Sciences, University School of Sciences, Gujarat University, Ahmedabad, India
| | - Rakesh Rawal
- 2 Division of Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacogenomics, Department of Cancer Biology, The Gujarat Cancer & Research Institute, Ahmedabad, India
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15
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Roudi R, Mohammadi SR, Roudbary M, Mohsenzadegan M. Lung cancer and β-glucans: review of potential therapeutic applications. Invest New Drugs 2017; 35:509-517. [PMID: 28303529 DOI: 10.1007/s10637-017-0449-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2017] [Accepted: 03/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The potential of natural substances with immunotherapeutic properties has long been studied. β-glucans, a cell wall component of certain bacteria and fungi, potentiate the immune system against microbes and toxic substances. Moreover, β-glucans are known to exhibit direct anticancer effects and can suppress cancer proliferation through immunomodulatory pathways. Mortality of lung cancer has been alarmingly increasingly worldwide; therefore, treatment of lung cancer is an urgent necessity. Numerous researchers are now dedicated to using β-glucans as a therapy for lung cancer. In the present attempt, we have reviewed the studies addressing therapeutic effects of β-glucans in primary and metastatic lung cancer published in the time period of 1991-2016.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raheleh Roudi
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shahla Roudbar Mohammadi
- Department of Medical Mycology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Roudbary
- Department of Medical Mycology and Parasitology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Monireh Mohsenzadegan
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Martínez-Ramírez AS, Díaz-Muñoz M, Butanda-Ochoa A, Vázquez-Cuevas FG. Nucleotides and nucleoside signaling in the regulation of the epithelium to mesenchymal transition (EMT). Purinergic Signal 2017; 13:1-12. [PMID: 27900516 PMCID: PMC5334205 DOI: 10.1007/s11302-016-9550-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2016] [Accepted: 11/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The epithelium-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is an important process of cell plasticity, consisting in the loss of epithelial identity and the gain of mesenchymal characteristics through the coordinated activity of a highly regulated informational program. Although it was originally described in the embryonic development, an important body of information supports its role in pathology, mainly in cancerous and fibrotic processes. The purinergic system of inter-cellular communication, mainly based in ATP and adenosine acting throughout their specific receptors, has emerged as a potent regulator of the EMT in several pathological entities. In this context, cellular signaling associated to purines is opening the understanding of a new element in the complex regulatory network of this phenotypical differentiation process. In this review, we have summarized recent information about the role of ATP and adenosine in EMT, as a growing field with high therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- A S Martínez-Ramírez
- Departamento de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular. Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Boulevard Juriquilla, 3001, CP 76230, Juriquilla Querétaro, Mexico
| | - M Díaz-Muñoz
- Departamento de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular. Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Boulevard Juriquilla, 3001, CP 76230, Juriquilla Querétaro, Mexico
| | - A Butanda-Ochoa
- Departamento de Biología Celular y del Desarrollo. Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, 04510, México, D.F., Mexico
| | - F G Vázquez-Cuevas
- Departamento de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular. Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Boulevard Juriquilla, 3001, CP 76230, Juriquilla Querétaro, Mexico.
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