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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.
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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
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Lotfimehr H, Mardi N, Narimani S, Nasrabadi HT, Karimipour M, Sokullu E, Rahbarghazi R. mTOR signalling pathway in stem cell bioactivities and angiogenesis potential. Cell Prolif 2023; 56:e13499. [PMID: 37156724 PMCID: PMC10693190 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.13499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a protein kinase that responds to different stimuli such as stresses, starvation and hypoxic conditions. The modulation of this effector can lead to the alteration of cell dynamic growth, proliferation, basal metabolism and other bioactivities. Considering this fact, the mTOR pathway is believed to regulate the diverse functions in several cell lineages. Due to the pleiotropic effects of the mTOR, we here, hypothesize that this effector can also regulate the bioactivity of stem cells in response to external stimuli pathways under physiological and pathological conditions. As a correlation, we aimed to highlight the close relationship between the mTOR signalling axis and the regenerative potential of stem cells in a different milieu. The relevant publications were included in this study using electronic searches of the PubMed database from inception to February 2023. We noted that the mTOR signalling cascade can affect different stem cell bioactivities, especially angiogenesis under physiological and pathological conditions. Modulation of mTOR signalling pathways is thought of as an effective strategy to modulate the angiogenic properties of stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamid Lotfimehr
- Stem Cell Research CenterTabriz University of Medical SciencesTabrizIran
- Department of Applied Cell Sciences, Faculty of Advanced Medical SciencesTabriz University of Medical SciencesTabrizIran
| | - Narges Mardi
- Student Research CommitteeTabriz University of Medical SciencesTabrizIran
| | - Samaneh Narimani
- Department of Applied Cell Sciences, Faculty of Advanced Medical SciencesTabriz University of Medical SciencesTabrizIran
| | - Hamid Tayefi Nasrabadi
- Stem Cell Research CenterTabriz University of Medical SciencesTabrizIran
- Department of Applied Cell Sciences, Faculty of Advanced Medical SciencesTabriz University of Medical SciencesTabrizIran
| | - Mohammad Karimipour
- Department of Applied Cell Sciences, Faculty of Advanced Medical SciencesTabriz University of Medical SciencesTabrizIran
| | - Emel Sokullu
- Koç University Research Center for Translational Medicine (KUTTAM)IstanbulTurkey
| | - Reza Rahbarghazi
- Stem Cell Research CenterTabriz University of Medical SciencesTabrizIran
- Department of Applied Cell Sciences, Faculty of Advanced Medical SciencesTabriz University of Medical SciencesTabrizIran
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3
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Bouamar H, Broome LE, Lathrop KI, Jatoi I, Brenner AJ, Nazarullah A, Gorena KM, Garcia M, Chen Y, Kaklamani V, Sun LZ. mTOR inhibition abrogates human mammary stem cells and early breast cancer progression markers. Breast Cancer Res 2023; 25:131. [PMID: 37904250 PMCID: PMC10614399 DOI: 10.1186/s13058-023-01727-z] [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: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mammary physiology is distinguished in containing adult stem/progenitor cells that are actively amending the breast tissue throughout the reproductive lifespan of women. Despite their importance in both mammary gland development, physiological maintenance, and reproduction, the exact role of mammary stem/progenitor cells in mammary tumorigenesis has not been fully elucidated in humans or animal models. The implications of modulating adult stem/progenitor cells in women could lead to a better understanding of not only their function, but also toward possible breast cancer prevention led us to evaluate the efficacy of rapamycin in reducing mammary stem/progenitor cell activity and malignant progression markers. METHODS We analyzed a large number of human breast tissues for their basal and luminal cell composition with flow cytometry and their stem and progenitor cell function with sphere formation assay with respect to age and menopausal status in connection with a clinical study (NCT02642094) involving a low-dose (2 mg/day) and short-term (5-7 days) treatment of the mTOR inhibitor sirolimus. The expression of biomarkers in biopsies and surgical breast samples were measured with quantitative analysis of immunohistochemistry. RESULTS Sirolimus treatment significantly abrogated mammary stem cell activity, particularly in postmenopausal patients. It did not affect the frequency of luminal progenitors but decreased their self-renewal capacity. While sirolimus had no effect on basal cell population, it decreased luminal cell population, particularly in postmenopausal patients. It also significantly diminished prognostic biomarkers associated with breast cancer progression from ductal carcinoma in situ to invasive breast cancer including p16INK4A, COX-2, and Ki67, as well as markers of the senescence-associated secretary phenotype, thereby possibly functioning in preventing early breast cancer progression. CONCLUSION Overall, these findings indicate a link from mTOR signaling to mammary stem and progenitor cell activity and cancer progression. Trial registration This study involves a clinical trial registered under the ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT02642094 registered December 30, 2015.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hakim Bouamar
- Department of Cell Systems and Anatomy, School of Medicine, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Larry Esteban Broome
- Department of Cell Systems and Anatomy, School of Medicine, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Kate Ida Lathrop
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Ismail Jatoi
- Department of Surgery, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Andrew Jacob Brenner
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Alia Nazarullah
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Karla Moncada Gorena
- Flow Cytometry Core Facility, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Michael Garcia
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Yidong Chen
- Department of Population Health Sciences, School of Medicine, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
- Greheey Children's Cancer Research Institute, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Virginia Kaklamani
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA.
| | - Lu-Zhe Sun
- Department of Cell Systems and Anatomy, School of Medicine, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA.
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4
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Mourksi N, Dalban C, Colombe‐Vermorel A, Odeyer L, Simioni V, Frenel J, Fabbro M, Bazan F, Abadie‐Lacourtoisie S, Coquan E, Martinez S, Garin G, Tabone‐Eglinger S, Treilleux I, Chabaud S, Pérol D, Ray‐Coquard I, Heudel P, Diaz J, Marcel V. Ribosome biogenesis-based predictive biomarkers in endocrine therapy (Anastrozole) combined with mTOR inhibitor (Vistusertib) in endometrial cancer: translational study from the VICTORIA trial in collaboration with the GINECO group. Mol Oncol 2022; 17:27-36. [PMID: 36370117 PMCID: PMC9812831 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.13340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Revised: 09/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Resistance of advanced hormone-dependent endometrial carcinoma to endocrine therapy remains a worldwide clinical issue. We recently reported that the combination of Vistusertib (V, mTOR inhibitor) and Anastrozole (A, aromatase inhibitor) improves the progression-free rate compared to Anastrozole alone. However, a better patient selection based on biomarkers would improve patient outcome. We evaluate for the first time the usage of ribosome biogenesis (RiBi) factors as a source of innovative markers. Using 47 FFPE tumours (A n = 18; V + A n = 29), 32 blood samples (A n = 13; V + A n = 19) and 30 samples of total RNAs (A n = 12; V + A n = 18) from the VICTORIA clinical trial, we observed an association between RiBi-associated markers and drug activity or prediction of treatment response. NOP10 and NHP2 mRNA levels were significantly higher in non-responders compared to responders in the Vistusertib + Anastrozole arm (P = 0.0194 and P = 0.0002 respectively; i.e. 8 weeks progression-free survival as endpoint). This study provides RiBi-based markers relevant for a better selection of patients with advanced endometrial carcinoma by predicting the response of endocrine therapy combined with mTOR inhibitor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nour‐El‐Houda Mourksi
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, Inserm U1052, CNRS UMR5286, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Centre Léon BérardUniversité de LyonLyonFrance,Institut Convergence PLAsCANLyonFrance,DevWeCan Labex LaboratoryLyonFrance
| | - Cécile Dalban
- Clinical Research DepartmentCentre Léon BérardLyonFrance
| | | | | | - Valentin Simioni
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, Inserm U1052, CNRS UMR5286, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Centre Léon BérardUniversité de LyonLyonFrance,Institut Convergence PLAsCANLyonFrance,DevWeCan Labex LaboratoryLyonFrance
| | - Jean‐Sébastien Frenel
- Medical Oncology Department, Institut Cancérologie de l'Ouest, and GINEGEPSSt HerblainFrance
| | - Michel Fabbro
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Institut du Cancer de MontpellierUniversity of MontpellierMontpellierFrance
| | - Fernando Bazan
- Department of Medical OncologyUniversity Hospital of BesançonBesançonFrance
| | | | - Elodie Coquan
- Department of Clinical Research, Department of Medical OncologyComprehensive Cancer Centre François BaclesseCaenFrance
| | | | | | | | | | - Sylvie Chabaud
- Clinical Research DepartmentCentre Léon BérardLyonFrance
| | - David Pérol
- Clinical Research DepartmentCentre Léon BérardLyonFrance
| | - Isabelle Ray‐Coquard
- Medical Oncology DepartmentCentre Léon Bérard and University Claude Bernard Lyon 1, GINECOLyonFrance
| | - Pierre‐Etienne Heudel
- Medical Oncology DepartmentCentre Léon Bérard and University Claude Bernard Lyon 1, GINECOLyonFrance
| | - Jean‐Jacques Diaz
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, Inserm U1052, CNRS UMR5286, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Centre Léon BérardUniversité de LyonLyonFrance,Institut Convergence PLAsCANLyonFrance,DevWeCan Labex LaboratoryLyonFrance
| | - Virginie Marcel
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, Inserm U1052, CNRS UMR5286, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Centre Léon BérardUniversité de LyonLyonFrance,Institut Convergence PLAsCANLyonFrance,DevWeCan Labex LaboratoryLyonFrance
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5
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Ozyurt R, Ozpolat B. Molecular Mechanisms of Anti-Estrogen Therapy Resistance and Novel Targeted Therapies. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:5206. [PMID: 36358625 PMCID: PMC9655708 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14215206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women, constituting one-third of all cancers in women, and it is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. Anti-estrogen therapies, such as selective estrogen receptor modulators, significantly improve survival in estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) BC patients, which represents about 70% of cases. However, about 60% of patients inevitably experience intrinsic or acquired resistance to anti-estrogen therapies, representing a major clinical problem that leads to relapse, metastasis, and patient deaths. The resistance mechanisms involve mutations of the direct targets of anti-estrogen therapies, compensatory survival pathways, as well as alterations in the expression of non-coding RNAs (e.g., microRNA) that regulate the activity of survival and signaling pathways. Although cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitors have significantly improved survival, the efficacy of these therapies alone and in combination with anti-estrogen therapy for advanced ER+ BC, are not curative in advanced and metastatic disease. Therefore, understanding the molecular mechanisms causing treatment resistance is critical for developing highly effective therapies and improving patient survival. This review focuses on the key mechanisms that contribute to anti-estrogen therapy resistance and potential new treatment strategies alone and in combination with anti-estrogen drugs to improve the survival of BC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rumeysa Ozyurt
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Houston Methodist Research Institute, Department of Nanomedicine, 6670 Bertner Ave, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Bulent Ozpolat
- Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Houston Methodist Research Institute, Department of Nanomedicine, 6670 Bertner Ave, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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6
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Xu H, Zhang F, Gao X, Zhou Q, Zhu L. Fate decisions of breast cancer stem cells in cancer progression. Front Oncol 2022; 12:968306. [PMID: 36046046 PMCID: PMC9420991 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.968306] [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: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer has a marked recurrence and metastatic trait and is one of the most prevalent malignancies affecting women’s health worldwide. Tumor initiation and progression begin after the cell goes from a quiescent to an activated state and requires different mechanisms to act in concert to regulate t a specific set of spectral genes for expression. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) have been proven to initiate and drive tumorigenesis due to their capability of self-renew and differentiate. In addition, CSCs are believed to be capable of causing resistance to anti-tumor drugs, recurrence and metastasis. Therefore, exploring the origin, regulatory mechanisms and ultimate fate decision of CSCs in breast cancer outcomes has far-reaching clinical implications for the development of breast cancer stem cell (BCSC)-targeted therapeutic strategies. In this review, we will highlight the contribution of BCSCs to breast cancer and explore the internal and external factors that regulate the fate of BCSCs.
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7
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Mousa IA, Hammady TM, Gad S, Zaitone SA, El-Sherbiny M, Sayed OM. Formulation and Characterization of Metformin-Loaded Ethosomes for Topical Application to Experimentally Induced Skin Cancer in Mice. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:657. [PMID: 35745575 PMCID: PMC9227071 DOI: 10.3390/ph15060657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
To achieve the best treatment of skin cancer, drug penetration inside the deepest layers of the skin is an important scientific interest. We designed an ethosome formulation that serves as a carrier for metformin and measured the in vitro skin permeation. We also aimed to measure the antitumor activity of the optimal ethosomal preparation when applied topically to chemically induced skin cancer in mice. We utilized a statistical Box-Behnken experimental design and applied three variables at three levels: lecithin concentration, cholesterol concentration and a mixture of ethanol and isopropyl alcohol concentrations. All formulations were prepared to calculate the entrapment efficiency %, zeta potential, size of the vesicles and drug release % after 1, 2, 4, 8 and 24 h. The size of the vesicles for the formulations was between 124 ± 14.2 nm and 560 ± 127 nm, while the entrapment efficiency was between 97.8 ± 0.23% and 99.4 ± 0.24%, and the drug release % after 8 h was between 38 ± 0.82% and 66 ± 0.52%. All formulations were introduced into the Box-Behnken software, which selected three formulations; then, one was assigned as an optimal formula. The in vivo antitumor activity of metformin-loaded ethosomal gel on skin cancer was greater than the antitumor activity of the gel preparation containing free metformin. Lower lecithin, high ethanol and isopropyl alcohol and moderate cholesterol contents improved the permeation rate. Overall, we can conclude that metformin-loaded ethosomes are a promising remedy for treating skin cancers, and more studies are warranted to approve this activity in other animal models of skin cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibrahim A. Mousa
- General Authority of Health Care, Ismailia Governorate, Ismailia 11517, Egypt;
| | - Taha M. Hammady
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt;
| | - Shadeed Gad
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt;
| | - Sawsan A. Zaitone
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Tabuk, Tabuk 71491, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed El-Sherbiny
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, AlMaarefa University, Riyadh P.O. Box 71666, Saudi Arabia;
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura 3155, Egypt
| | - Ossama M. Sayed
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Sinai University, Kantra 41636, Egypt;
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8
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Zhanghuang C, Yao Z, Tang H, Zhang K, Wu C, Li L, Xie Y, Yang Z, Yan B. Identification of Prognostic Biomarkers in Patients With Malignant Rhabdoid Tumor of the Kidney Based on mTORC1 Signaling Pathway-Related Genes. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:843234. [PMID: 35558559 PMCID: PMC9087638 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.843234] [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: 12/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Malignant rhabdoid tumor of the kidney (MRTK) is an infrequent malignant tumor in childhood, accounting for approximately 2% of all childhood kidney tumors. Although the development of current treatments, the overall survival (OS) rate of MRTK patients is only 25%. The aim of this research was to explore the prognostic value of genes associated with the mTORC1 signaling pathway in MRTK. Methods: The transcriptome data of MRTK samples were downloaded from the TARGET database. The 200 genes of HALLMARK_MTORC1_SIGNALING were downloaded from the Molecular Signatures Database (MSigDB). Furthermore, we applied gene set variation analysis (GSVA) to screen differentially expressed gene sets between the MRTK and normal samples. The 200 genes were combined with differentially expressed genes (DEGs) identified from differentially expressed gene sets. Then, a gene signature of mTORC1 pathway-related genes (mTRGs) was constructed in MRTK. The molecular mechanism of prognostic factors in MRTK was further analyzed using gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA). The target drugs based on these prognostic factors were explored from The Comparative Toxicogenomics Database (CTD). Moreover, six paired fresh tumor tissues and paraneoplastic tissues from children with MRTK were collected to validate the expressions of P4HA1, MLLT11, AURKA, and GOT1 in clinical samples via real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR and Western blot. Results: A four-gene signature (P4HA1, MLLT11, AURKA, and GOT1) related to the mTORC1 pathway was developed in MRTK, which divided the MRTK patients into high-risk and low-risk groups. The patients with high-risk scores were strongly associated with reduced OS. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis indicated a good prediction performance of the four biomarker signatures. GSEA revealed that the mTOR signaling pathway was significantly enriched. The risk score was demonstrated to be an independent predictor for MRTK outcome. According to the correlation of tumor stem cell index and prognostic factors, the target drugs were obtained for the treatment of MRTK patients. Furthermore, the expressions of RT-qPCR and Western blot were consistent with RNA-sequencing data such that their expressions were significantly elevated in tumor tissues. Conclusion: A total of four genes (P4HA1, MLLT11, AURKA, and GOT1) were screened as prognostic markers, further providing a new understanding for the treatment of patients with MRTK.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zhigang Yao
- Department of Urology, Kunming Children’s Hospital, Kunming, China
| | - Haoyu Tang
- Department of Urology, Kunming Children’s Hospital, Kunming, China
| | - Kun Zhang
- Department of Urology, Kunming Children’s Hospital, Kunming, China
| | - Chengchuang Wu
- Department of Urology, Kunming Children’s Hospital, Kunming, China
| | - Li Li
- Key Laboratory of Pediatric Major Diseases, Kunming Children’s Hospital, Kunming, China
| | - Yucheng Xie
- Department of Pathology, Kunming Children’s Hospital, Kunming, China
| | - Zhen Yang
- Department of Oncology, Kunming Children’s Hospital, Kunming, China
| | - Bing Yan
- Department of Urology, Kunming Children’s Hospital, Kunming, China
- *Correspondence: Bing Yan,
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9
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He F, Xia Y, Ling X. Diagnosis and Individualized Treatment of Three Primary Malignant Tumors: A Case Report. BREAST CANCER-TARGETS AND THERAPY 2021; 13:519-527. [PMID: 34526817 PMCID: PMC8437380 DOI: 10.2147/bctt.s321390] [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: 05/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Continuous optimization of diagnosis and treatment of malignant tumors has led to significantly prolonged survival in cancer patients. Despite the recent increase in the incidence of multiple primary malignant tumors (MPMT), it remains rare in clinical practice; therefore, normative guidance on its etiology, diagnosis, and treatment is insufficient. Here we describe the case of a patient with three primary malignant tumors, namely breast cancer, diffuse astrocytoma, and hepatic malignant perivascular epithelioid cell tumors (PEComa) and discuss relevant literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang He
- The First Clinical Medical College of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, People's Republic of China
| | - Yunxia Xia
- The First Clinical Medical College of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoling Ling
- Department of Oncology, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, People's Republic of China
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10
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Chen J, Wan R, Li Q, Rao Z, Wang Y, Zhang L, Teichmann AT. Utilizing the Hippo pathway as a therapeutic target for combating endocrine-resistant breast cancer. Cancer Cell Int 2021; 21:306. [PMID: 34112175 PMCID: PMC8194146 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-021-01999-5] [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: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Drug resistance is always a great obstacle in any endocrine therapy of breast cancer. Although the combination of endocrine therapy and targeted therapy has been shown to significantly improve prognosis, refractory endocrine resistance is still common. Dysregulation of the Hippo pathway is often related to the occurrence and the development of many tumors. Targeted therapies of this pathway have played important roles in the study of triple negative breast cancer (TNBC). Targeting the Hippo pathway in combination with chemotherapy or other targeted therapies has been shown to significantly improve specific antitumor effects and reduce cancer antidrug resistance. Further exploration has shown that the Hippo pathway is closely related to endocrine resistance, and it plays a "co-correlation point" role in numerous pathways involving endocrine resistance, including related pathways in breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs). Agents and miRNAs targeting the components of the Hippo pathway are expected to significantly enhance the sensitivity of breast cancer cells to endocrine therapy. This review initially explains the possible mechanism of the Hippo pathway in combating endocrine resistance, and it concludes by recommending endocrine therapy in combination with therapies targeting the Hippo pathway in the study of endocrine-resistant breast cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Chen
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, No. 25 Taiping Street, Jiangyang District, Luzhou, 646000, People's Republic of China.,Sichuan Provincial Center for Gynaecology and Breast Diseases, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
| | - Runlan Wan
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, No. 25 Taiping Street, Jiangyang District, Luzhou, 646000, People's Republic of China
| | - Qinqin Li
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, No. 25 Taiping Street, Jiangyang District, Luzhou, 646000, People's Republic of China.,Sichuan Provincial Center for Gynaecology and Breast Diseases, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
| | - Zhenghuan Rao
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, No. 25 Taiping Street, Jiangyang District, Luzhou, 646000, People's Republic of China.,Sichuan Provincial Center for Gynaecology and Breast Diseases, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China
| | - Yanlin Wang
- North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, 637000, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department of Gynaecology, The Second People's Hospital of Yibin, Yibin, 644000, China
| | - Alexander Tobias Teichmann
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, No. 25 Taiping Street, Jiangyang District, Luzhou, 646000, People's Republic of China. .,Sichuan Provincial Center for Gynaecology and Breast Diseases, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, China.
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11
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Drug Resistance in Metastatic Breast Cancer: Tumor Targeted Nanomedicine to the Rescue. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22094673. [PMID: 33925129 PMCID: PMC8125767 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 04/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer, specifically metastatic breast, is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in women. This is mainly due to relapse and reoccurrence of tumor. The primary reason for cancer relapse is the development of multidrug resistance (MDR) hampering the treatment and prognosis. MDR can occur due to a multitude of molecular events, including increased expression of efflux transporters such as P-gp, BCRP, or MRP1; epithelial to mesenchymal transition; and resistance development in breast cancer stem cells. Excessive dose dumping in chemotherapy can cause intrinsic anti-cancer MDR to appear prior to chemotherapy and after the treatment. Hence, novel targeted nanomedicines encapsulating chemotherapeutics and gene therapy products may assist to overcome cancer drug resistance. Targeted nanomedicines offer innovative strategies to overcome the limitations of conventional chemotherapy while permitting enhanced selectivity to cancer cells. Targeted nanotheranostics permit targeted drug release, precise breast cancer diagnosis, and importantly, the ability to overcome MDR. The article discusses various nanomedicines designed to selectively target breast cancer, triple negative breast cancer, and breast cancer stem cells. In addition, the review discusses recent approaches, including combination nanoparticles (NPs), theranostic NPs, and stimuli sensitive or “smart” NPs. Recent innovations in microRNA NPs and personalized medicine NPs are also discussed. Future perspective research for complex targeted and multi-stage responsive nanomedicines for metastatic breast cancer is discussed.
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12
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Still Living Better through Chemistry: An Update on Caloric Restriction and Caloric Restriction Mimetics as Tools to Promote Health and Lifespan. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21239220. [PMID: 33287232 PMCID: PMC7729921 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21239220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Caloric restriction (CR), the reduction of caloric intake without inducing malnutrition, is the most reproducible method of extending health and lifespan across numerous organisms, including humans. However, with nearly one-third of the world’s population overweight, it is obvious that caloric restriction approaches are difficult for individuals to achieve. Therefore, identifying compounds that mimic CR is desirable to promote longer, healthier lifespans without the rigors of restricting diet. Many compounds, such as rapamycin (and its derivatives), metformin, or other naturally occurring products in our diets (nutraceuticals), induce CR-like states in laboratory models. An alternative to CR is the removal of specific elements (such as individual amino acids) from the diet. Despite our increasing knowledge of the multitude of CR approaches and CR mimetics, the extent to which these strategies overlap mechanistically remains unclear. Here we provide an update of CR and CR mimetic research, summarizing mechanisms by which these strategies influence genome function required to treat age-related pathologies and identify the molecular fountain of youth.
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13
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Novel mTORC1 Inhibitors Kill Glioblastoma Stem Cells. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2020; 13:ph13120419. [PMID: 33255358 PMCID: PMC7761300 DOI: 10.3390/ph13120419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Revised: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is an aggressive tumor of the brain, with an average post-diagnosis survival of 15 months. GBM stem cells (GBMSC) resist the standard-of-care therapy, temozolomide, and are considered a major contributor to tumor resistance. Mammalian target of rapamycin Complex 1 (mTORC1) regulates cell proliferation and has been shown by others to have reduced activity in GBMSC. We recently identified a novel chemical series of human-safe piperazine-based brain-penetrant mTORC1-specific inhibitors. We assayed the piperazine-mTOR binding strength by two biophysical measurements, biolayer interferometry and field-effect biosensing, and these confirmed each other and demonstrated a structure-activity relationship. As mTORC1 is altered in human GBMSC, and as mTORC1 inhibitors have been tested in previous GBM clinical trials, we tested the killing potency of the tightest-binding piperazines and observed that these were potent GBMSC killers. GBMSCs are resistant to the standard-of-care temozolomide therapy, but temozolomide supplemented with tight-binding piperazine meclizine and flunarizine greatly enhanced GBMSC death over temozolomide alone. Lastly, we investigated IDH1-mutated GBMSC mutations that are known to affect mitochondrial and mTORC1 metabolism, and the tight-binding meclizine provoked 'synthetic lethality' in IDH1-mutant GBMSCs. In other words, IDH1-mutated GBMSC showed greater sensitivity to the coadministration of temozolomide and meclizine. These data tend to support a novel clinical strategy for GBM, i.e., the co-administration of meclizine or flunarizine as adjuvant therapy in the treatment of GBM and IDH1-mutant GBM.
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Chen B, Ye P, Chen Y, Liu T, Cha JH, Yan X, Yang WH. Involvement of the Estrogen and Progesterone Axis in Cancer Stemness: Elucidating Molecular Mechanisms and Clinical Significance. Front Oncol 2020; 10:1657. [PMID: 33014829 PMCID: PMC7498570 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.01657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Estrogen and progesterone regulate the growth and development of human tissues, including the reproductive system and breasts, through estrogen and progesterone receptors, respectively. These receptors are also important indicators for the clinical prognosis of breast cancer and various reproductive cancers. Many studies have reported that cancer stem cells (CSCs) play a key role in tumor initiation, progression, metastasis, and recurrence. Although the role of estrogen and progesterone in human organs and various cancers has been studied, the molecular mechanisms underlying the action of these hormones on CSCs remain unclear. Therefore, further elucidation of the effects of estrogen and progesterone on CSCs should provide a new direction for developing pertinent therapies. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the estrogen and progesterone axis involved in cancer stemness and discuss potential therapeutic strategies to inhibit CSCs by targeting relevant pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bi Chen
- Affiliated Cancer Hospital and Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Peng Ye
- Affiliated Cancer Hospital and Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yeh Chen
- Institute of New Drug Development, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Tong Liu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, China.,The Institute of Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Jong-Ho Cha
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Inha University, Incheon, South Korea
| | - Xiuwen Yan
- Affiliated Cancer Hospital and Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wen-Hao Yang
- Affiliated Cancer Hospital and Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
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15
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Samuel SM, Varghese E, Koklesová L, Líšková A, Kubatka P, Büsselberg D. Counteracting Chemoresistance with Metformin in Breast Cancers: Targeting Cancer Stem Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E2482. [PMID: 32883003 PMCID: PMC7565921 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12092482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2020] [Revised: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 08/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the leaps and bounds in achieving success in the management and treatment of breast cancers through surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, breast cancer remains the most frequently occurring cancer in women and the most common cause of cancer-related deaths among women. Systemic therapeutic approaches, such as chemotherapy, although beneficial in treating and curing breast cancer subjects with localized breast tumors, tend to fail in metastatic cases of the disease due to (a) an acquired resistance to the chemotherapeutic drug and (b) the development of intrinsic resistance to therapy. The existence of cancer stem cells (CSCs) plays a crucial role in both acquired and intrinsic chemoresistance. CSCs are less abundant than terminally differentiated cancer cells and confer chemoresistance through a unique altered metabolism and capability to evade the immune response system. Furthermore, CSCs possess active DNA repair systems, transporters that support multidrug resistance (MDR), advanced detoxification processes, and the ability to self-renew and differentiate into tumor progenitor cells, thereby supporting cancer invasion, metastasis, and recurrence/relapse. Hence, current research is focusing on targeting CSCs to overcome resistance and improve the efficacy of the treatment and management of breast cancer. Studies revealed that metformin (1, 1-dimethylbiguanide), a widely used anti-hyperglycemic agent, sensitizes tumor response to various chemotherapeutic drugs. Metformin selectively targets CSCs and improves the hypoxic microenvironment, suppresses the tumor metastasis and inflammation, as well as regulates the metabolic programming, induces apoptosis, and reverses epithelial-mesenchymal transition and MDR. Here, we discuss cancer (breast cancer) and chemoresistance, the molecular mechanisms of chemoresistance in breast cancers, and metformin as a chemo-sensitizing/re-sensitizing agent, with a particular focus on breast CSCs as a critical contributing factor to acquired and intrinsic chemoresistance. The review outlines the prospects and directions for a better understanding and re-purposing of metformin as an anti-cancer/chemo-sensitizing drug in the treatment of breast cancer. It intends to provide a rationale for the use of metformin as a combinatory therapy in a clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samson Mathews Samuel
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Education City, Qatar Foundation, Doha 24144, Qatar;
| | - Elizabeth Varghese
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Education City, Qatar Foundation, Doha 24144, Qatar;
| | - Lenka Koklesová
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, 03601 Martin, Slovakia; (L.K.); (A.L.)
| | - Alena Líšková
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, 03601 Martin, Slovakia; (L.K.); (A.L.)
| | - Peter Kubatka
- Department of Medical Biology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, 03601 Martin, Slovakia;
| | - Dietrich Büsselberg
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Education City, Qatar Foundation, Doha 24144, Qatar;
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16
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Ortega MA, Fraile-Martínez O, Asúnsolo Á, Buján J, García-Honduvilla N, Coca S. Signal Transduction Pathways in Breast Cancer: The Important Role of PI3K/Akt/mTOR. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2020; 2020:9258396. [PMID: 32211045 PMCID: PMC7085392 DOI: 10.1155/2020/9258396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2019] [Revised: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 01/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer is the cancer with the highest prevalence in women and is the number-one cause of cancer mortality worldwide. Cell transduction is a fundamental process in the development and progression of cancer. Modifications in various cell signalling pathways promote tumour cell proliferation, progression, and survival. The PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway is an example of that, and it is involved in growth, proliferation, survival, motility, metabolism, and immune response regulation. Activation of this pathway is one of the main causes of cancer cell resistance to antitumour therapies. This makes PI3K/Akt/mTOR signalling a crucial object of study for understanding the development and progression of this disease. Thus, this pathway may have a role as a potential therapeutic target, as well as prognostic and diagnostic value, in patients with breast cancer. Despite the existence of selective PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway inhibitors and current clinical trials, the cellular mechanisms are not yet known. The present review aims to understand the current state of this important disease and the paths that must be forged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel A. Ortega
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialities, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences and Networking Biomedical Research Centre on Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
- Ramón y Cajal Institute of Healthcare Research (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain
- Cancer Registry and Pathology Department, Hospital Universitario Principe de Asturias, Alcalá de Henares, Spain
| | - Oscar Fraile-Martínez
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialities, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences and Networking Biomedical Research Centre on Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ángel Asúnsolo
- Ramón y Cajal Institute of Healthcare Research (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Surgery, Medical and Social Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
| | - Julia Buján
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialities, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences and Networking Biomedical Research Centre on Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
- Ramón y Cajal Institute of Healthcare Research (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain
| | - Natalio García-Honduvilla
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialities, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences and Networking Biomedical Research Centre on Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
- Ramón y Cajal Institute of Healthcare Research (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain
| | - Santiago Coca
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialities, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences and Networking Biomedical Research Centre on Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
- Ramón y Cajal Institute of Healthcare Research (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain
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17
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Kuo CT, Chen CL, Li CC, Huang GS, Ma WY, Hsu WF, Lin CH, Lu YS, Wo AM. Immunofluorescence can assess the efficacy of mTOR pathway therapeutic agent Everolimus in breast cancer models. Sci Rep 2019; 9:10898. [PMID: 31358767 PMCID: PMC6662705 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-45319-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2018] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
When breast cancer patients start to exhibit resistance to hormonal therapy or chemotherapy, the mTOR inhibitor everolimus can be considered as an alternative therapeutic agent. Everolimus can deregulate the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway and affect a range of cellular functions. In some patients, the agent does not exhibit the desired efficacy and, even worse, not without the associated side effects. This study assessed the use of immunofluorescence (IF) as a modality to fill this unmet need of predicting the efficacy of everolimus prior to administration. Cell viability and MTT assays based on IF intensities of pho-4EBP1 Thr37/46 and pho-S6K1 Ser424 on breast cancer cells (Hs578T, MCF7, BT474, MDA-MB-231) and patient-derived cell culture from metastatic sites (ABC-82T and ABC-16TX1) were interrogated. Results show that independent pho-4EBP1 Thr37/46 and pho-S6K1 Ser424 IF expressions can classify data into different groups: everolimus sensitive and resistant. The combined IF baseline intensity of these proteins is predictive of the efficacy of everolimus, and their intensities change dynamically when cells are resistant to everolimus. Furthermore, mTOR resistance is not only consequence of the AKT/mTOR pathway but also through the LKB1 or MAPK/ERK pathway. The LKB1 and pho-GSK3β may also be potential predictive markers for everolimus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Ting Kuo
- Institute of Applied Mechanics, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 106, Taiwan
| | - Chen-Lin Chen
- Institute of Applied Mechanics, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 106, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Chi Li
- Institute of Applied Mechanics, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 106, Taiwan
| | - Guan-Syuan Huang
- Institute of Applied Mechanics, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 106, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Yuan Ma
- Institute of Applied Mechanics, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 106, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Fan Hsu
- Institute of Applied Mechanics, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 106, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Hung Lin
- Department of Oncology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, 100, Taiwan
| | - Yen-Shen Lu
- Department of Oncology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, 100, Taiwan.
| | - Andrew M Wo
- Institute of Applied Mechanics, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 106, Taiwan.
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18
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Rodriguez D, Ramkairsingh M, Lin X, Kapoor A, Major P, Tang D. The Central Contributions of Breast Cancer Stem Cells in Developing Resistance to Endocrine Therapy in Estrogen Receptor (ER)-Positive Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11071028. [PMID: 31336602 PMCID: PMC6678134 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11071028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2019] [Revised: 07/17/2019] [Accepted: 07/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer stem cells (BCSC) play critical roles in the acquisition of resistance to endocrine therapy in estrogen receptor (ER)-positive (ER + ve) breast cancer (BC). The resistance results from complex alterations involving ER, growth factor receptors, NOTCH, Wnt/β-catenin, hedgehog, YAP/TAZ, and the tumor microenvironment. These mechanisms are likely converged on regulating BCSCs, which then drive the development of endocrine therapy resistance. In this regard, hormone therapies enrich BCSCs in ER + ve BCs under both pre-clinical and clinical settings along with upregulation of the core components of “stemness” transcriptional factors including SOX2, NANOG, and OCT4. SOX2 initiates a set of reactions involving SOX9, Wnt, FXY3D, and Src tyrosine kinase; these reactions stimulate BCSCs and contribute to endocrine resistance. The central contributions of BCSCs to endocrine resistance regulated by complex mechanisms offer a unified strategy to counter the resistance. ER + ve BCs constitute approximately 75% of BCs to which hormone therapy is the major therapeutic approach. Likewise, resistance to endocrine therapy remains the major challenge in the management of patients with ER + ve BC. In this review we will discuss evidence supporting a central role of BCSCs in developing endocrine resistance and outline the strategy of targeting BCSCs to reduce hormone therapy resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Rodriguez
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1, Canada
- The Research Institute of St Joe's Hamilton, St Joseph's Hospital, Hamilton, ON L8N 4A6, Canada
- Urological Cancer Center for Research and Innovation (UCCRI), St Joseph's Hospital, Hamilton, ON L8N 4A6, Canada
- The Hamilton Center for Kidney Research, St. Joseph's Hospital, Hamilton, ON L8N 4A6, Canada
| | - Marc Ramkairsingh
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1, Canada
- The Research Institute of St Joe's Hamilton, St Joseph's Hospital, Hamilton, ON L8N 4A6, Canada
- Urological Cancer Center for Research and Innovation (UCCRI), St Joseph's Hospital, Hamilton, ON L8N 4A6, Canada
- The Hamilton Center for Kidney Research, St. Joseph's Hospital, Hamilton, ON L8N 4A6, Canada
| | - Xiaozeng Lin
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1, Canada
- The Research Institute of St Joe's Hamilton, St Joseph's Hospital, Hamilton, ON L8N 4A6, Canada
- Urological Cancer Center for Research and Innovation (UCCRI), St Joseph's Hospital, Hamilton, ON L8N 4A6, Canada
- The Hamilton Center for Kidney Research, St. Joseph's Hospital, Hamilton, ON L8N 4A6, Canada
| | - Anil Kapoor
- The Research Institute of St Joe's Hamilton, St Joseph's Hospital, Hamilton, ON L8N 4A6, Canada
- Urological Cancer Center for Research and Innovation (UCCRI), St Joseph's Hospital, Hamilton, ON L8N 4A6, Canada
- Department of Surgery, McMaster University, Hamilton, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1, Canada
| | - Pierre Major
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Oncology, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, L8V 5C2, Canada
| | - Damu Tang
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4K1, Canada.
- The Research Institute of St Joe's Hamilton, St Joseph's Hospital, Hamilton, ON L8N 4A6, Canada.
- Urological Cancer Center for Research and Innovation (UCCRI), St Joseph's Hospital, Hamilton, ON L8N 4A6, Canada.
- The Hamilton Center for Kidney Research, St. Joseph's Hospital, Hamilton, ON L8N 4A6, Canada.
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19
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Hua H, Kong Q, Zhang H, Wang J, Luo T, Jiang Y. Targeting mTOR for cancer therapy. J Hematol Oncol 2019; 12:71. [PMID: 31277692 PMCID: PMC6612215 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-019-0754-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 535] [Impact Index Per Article: 107.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2019] [Accepted: 06/14/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a protein kinase regulating cell growth, survival, metabolism, and immunity. mTOR is usually assembled into several complexes such as mTOR complex 1/2 (mTORC1/2). In cooperation with raptor, rictor, LST8, and mSin1, key components in mTORC1 or mTORC2, mTOR catalyzes the phosphorylation of multiple targets such as ribosomal protein S6 kinase β-1 (S6K1), eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E binding protein 1 (4E-BP1), Akt, protein kinase C (PKC), and type-I insulin-like growth factor receptor (IGF-IR), thereby regulating protein synthesis, nutrients metabolism, growth factor signaling, cell growth, and migration. Activation of mTOR promotes tumor growth and metastasis. Many mTOR inhibitors have been developed to treat cancer. While some of the mTOR inhibitors have been approved to treat human cancer, more mTOR inhibitors are being evaluated in clinical trials. Here, we update recent advances in exploring mTOR signaling and the development of mTOR inhibitors for cancer therapy. In addition, we discuss the mechanisms underlying the resistance to mTOR inhibitors in cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Hua
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Qingbin Kong
- Laboratory of Oncogene, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hongying Zhang
- Laboratory of Oncogene, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jiao Wang
- School of Basic Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Ting Luo
- Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yangfu Jiang
- Laboratory of Oncogene, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
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20
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Co-inhibition of mTORC1, HDAC and ESR1α retards the growth of triple-negative breast cancer and suppresses cancer stem cells. Cell Death Dis 2018; 9:815. [PMID: 30050079 PMCID: PMC6062597 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-018-0811-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2018] [Revised: 06/12/2018] [Accepted: 06/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most refractory subtype of breast cancer. It causes the majority of breast cancer-related deaths, which has been largely associated with the plasticity of tumor cells and persistence of cancer stem cells (CSCs). Conventional chemotherapeutics enrich CSCs and lead to drug resistance and disease relapse. Development of a strategy capable of inhibiting both bulk and CSC populations is an unmet medical need. Inhibitors against estrogen receptor 1, HDACs, or mTOR have been studied in the treatment of TNBC; however, the results are inconsistent. In this work, we found that patient TNBC samples expressed high levels of mTORC1 and HDAC genes in comparison to luminal breast cancer samples. Furthermore, co-inhibition of mTORC1 and HDAC with rapamycin and valproic acid, but neither alone, reproducibly promoted ESR1 expression in TNBC cells. In combination with tamoxifen (inhibiting ESR1), both S6RP phosphorylation and rapamycin-induced 4E-BP1 upregulation in TNBC bulk cells was inhibited. We further showed that fractionated CSCs expressed higher levels of mTORC1 and HDAC than non-CSCs. As a result, co-inhibition of mTORC1, HDAC, and ESR1 was capable of reducing both bulk and CSC subpopulations as well as the conversion of fractionated non-CSC to CSCs in TNBC cells. These observations were partially recapitulated with the cultured tumor fragments from TNBC patients. Furthermore, co-administration of rapamycin, valproic acid, and tamoxifen retarded tumor growth and reduced CD44high/+/CD24low/− CSCs in a human TNBC xenograft model and hampered tumorigenesis after secondary transplantation. Since the drugs tested are commonly used in clinic, this study provides a new therapeutic strategy and a strong rationale for clinical evaluation of these combinations for the treatment of patients with TNBC.
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21
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Shea MP, O'Leary KA, Wegner KA, Vezina CM, Schuler LA. High collagen density augments mTOR-dependent cancer stem cells in ERα+ mammary carcinomas, and increases mTOR-independent lung metastases. Cancer Lett 2018; 433:1-9. [PMID: 29935374 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2018.06.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2018] [Revised: 06/14/2018] [Accepted: 06/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Metastatic estrogen receptor alpha positive (ERα+) cancers account for most breast cancer mortality. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) and dense/stiff extracellular matrices are implicated in aggression and therapy resistance. We examined this interplay and response to mTOR inhibition using ERα+ adenocarcinomas from NRL-PRL females in combination with Col1a1tmJae/+ (mCol1a1) mice, which accumulate collagen-I around growing tumors. Orthotopic transplantation of tumor cells to mCol1a1 but not wildtype hosts resulted in striking desmoplasia. Mammary tumors in mCol1a1 recipients displayed higher CSC activity and enhanced AKT-mTOR and YAP activation, and these animals developed more and larger lung metastases. Treatment with the mTOR inhibitor, rapamycin, with or without the anti-estrogen, ICI182780, rapidly diminished mammary tumors, which rapidly reversed when treatment ceased. In contrast, lung metastases, which exhibited lower proliferation and pS6RP, indicating lower mTOR activity, were unresponsive, and mCol1a1 hosts continued to sustain greater metastatic burdens. These findings shed light on the influence of desmoplastic tumor microenvironments on the CSC niche and metastatic behavior in ERα+ breast cancer. The differential mTOR dependence of local mammary tumors and pulmonary lesions has implications for success of mTOR inhibitors in advanced ERα+ disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael P Shea
- Molecular and Environmental Toxicology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Kathleen A O'Leary
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Kyle A Wegner
- Molecular and Environmental Toxicology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Chad M Vezina
- Molecular and Environmental Toxicology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; University of Wisconsin Paul P. Carbone Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, WI, USA
| | - Linda A Schuler
- Molecular and Environmental Toxicology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA; University of Wisconsin Paul P. Carbone Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, WI, USA.
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22
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Maiese K. Moving to the Rhythm with Clock (Circadian) Genes, Autophagy, mTOR, and SIRT1 in Degenerative Disease and Cancer. Curr Neurovasc Res 2018; 14:299-304. [PMID: 28721811 DOI: 10.2174/1567202614666170718092010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2017] [Revised: 06/22/2017] [Accepted: 07/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The mammalian circadian clock and its associated clock genes are increasingly been recognized as critical components for a number of physiological and disease processes that extend beyond hormone release, thermal regulation, and sleep-wake cycles. New evidence suggests that clinical behavior disruptions that involve prolonged shift work and even space travel may negatively impact circadian rhythm and lead to multi-system disease. METHODS In light of the significant role circadian rhythm can hold over the body's normal physiology as well as disease processes, we examined and discussed the impact circadian rhythm and clock genes hold over lifespan, neurodegenerative disorders, and tumorigenesis. RESULTS In experimental models, lifespan is significantly reduced with the introduction of arrhythmic mutants and leads to an increase in oxidative stress exposure. Interestingly, patients with Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease may suffer disease onset or progression as a result of alterations in the DNA methylation of clock genes as well as prolonged pharmacological treatment for these disorders that may lead to impairment of circadian rhythm function. Tumorigenesis also can occur with the loss of a maintained circadian rhythm and lead to an increased risk for nasopharyngeal carcinoma, breast cancer, and metastatic colorectal cancer. Interestingly, the circadian clock system relies upon the regulation of the critical pathways of autophagy, the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR), AMP activated protein kinase (AMPK), and silent mating type information regulation 2 homolog 1 (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) (SIRT1) as well as proliferative mechanisms that involve the wingless pathway of Wnt/β-catenin pathway to foster cell survival during injury and block tumor cell growth. CONCLUSION Future targeting of the pathways of autophagy, mTOR, SIRT1, and Wnt that control mammalian circadian rhythm may hold the key for the development of novel and effective therapies against aging- related disorders, neurodegenerative disease, and tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth Maiese
- Cellular and Molecular Signaling, Newark, NY. United States
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23
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Cheng CC, Shi LH, Wang XJ, Wang SX, Wan XQ, Liu SR, Wang YF, Lu Z, Wang LH, Ding Y. Stat3/Oct-4/c-Myc signal circuit for regulating stemness-mediated doxorubicin resistance of triple-negative breast cancer cells and inhibitory effects of WP1066. Int J Oncol 2018; 53:339-348. [PMID: 29750424 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2018.4399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2018] [Accepted: 04/11/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Doxorubicin (Dox) is widely used in the treatment of triple-negative breast cancer cells (TNBCs), however resistance limits its effectiveness. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are associated with Dox resistance in MCF-7 estrogen receptor positive breast cancer cells. Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (Stat3) may functionally shift non-CSCs towards CSCs. However, whether Stat3 drives the formation of CSCs during the development of resistance in TNBC, and whether a Stat3 inhibitor reverses CSC-mediated Dox resistance, remains to be elucidated. In the present study, human MDA-MB-468 and murine 4T1 mammary carcinoma cell lines with the typical characteristics of TNBCs, were compared with estrogen receptor-positive MCF-7 cells as a model system. The MTT assay was used to detect cytotoxicity of Dox. In addition, the expression levels of CSC-specific markers and transcriptional factors were measured by western blotting, immunofluorescence staining and flow cytometry. The mammosphere formation assay was used to detect stem cell activity. Under long-term continuous treatment with Dox at a low concentration, TNBC cultures not only exhibited a drug-resistant phenotype, but also showed CSC properties. These Dox-resistant TNBC cells showed activation of Stat3 and high expression levels of pluripotency transcription factors octamer-binding transcription factor-4 (Oct-4) and c-Myc, which was different from the high expression of superoxide dismutase 2 (Sox2) in Dox-resistant MCF-7 cells. WP1066 inhibited the phosphorylation of Stat3, and decreased the expression of Oct-4 and c-Myc, leading to a reduction in the CD44-positive cell population, and restoring the sensitivity of the cells to Dox. Taken together, a novel signal circuit of Stat3/Oct-4/c-Myc was identified for regulating stemness-mediated Dox resistance in TNBC. The Stat3 inhibitor WP1066 was able to overcome the resistance to Dox through decreasing the enrichment of CSCs, highlighting the therapeutic potential of WP1066 as a novel sensitizer of Dox-resistant TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cong-Cong Cheng
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Weifang Medical College, Weifang, Shandong 261053, P.R. China
| | - Li-Hong Shi
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Weifang Medical College, Weifang, Shandong 261053, P.R. China
| | - Xue-Jian Wang
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Weifang Medical College, Weifang, Shandong 261053, P.R. China
| | - Shu-Xiao Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, Weifang Medical College, Weifang, Shandong 261053, P.R. China
| | - Xiao-Qing Wan
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Weifang Medical College, Weifang, Shandong 261053, P.R. China
| | - Shu-Rong Liu
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Weifang Medical College, Weifang, Shandong 261053, P.R. China
| | - Yi-Fei Wang
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Weifang Medical College, Weifang, Shandong 261053, P.R. China
| | - Zhong Lu
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Weifang Medical College, Weifang, Shandong 261053, P.R. China
| | - Li-Hua Wang
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Weifang Medical College, Weifang, Shandong 261053, P.R. China
| | - Yi Ding
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Weifang Medical College, Weifang, Shandong 261053, P.R. China
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24
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Abstract
Metformin is the most common biguanide used in the treatment of diabetes, with 120 million treated patients worldwide. Metformin decreases hyperglycemia without inducing hypoglycemia in diabetic patients and is very well tolerated. The principal effects of metformin are to decrease hepatic gluconeogenesis and increase glucose absorption by skeletal muscles. These effects are primarily due to metformin's action on mitochondria, which requires the activation of metabolic checkpoint AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). AMPK is implicated in several pathways, and following metformin activation, it decreases protein synthesis and cell proliferation. Many studies have examined the role of metformin in the regulation of cancer cells, particularly its effects on cancer cell proliferation and cell death. Encouraging results have been obtained in different types of cancers, including prostate, breast, lung, and skin cancers (melanoma). Furthermore, many retrospective epidemiological studies in diabetes patients have shown that metformin treatment decreased the risk of cancers compared with other antidiabetic treatments. In this review, we will discuss the effects of metformin on melanoma cells. Together, our novel data demonstrate the importance of developing metformin and new biguanide-derived compounds as potential treatments against a number of different cancers, particularly melanoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Jaune
- INSERM U1065, Centre Méditerranéen de Médecine Moléculaire (C3M), Nice, France
- Université de Nice Sophia Antipolis, UFR de Médecine, Nice, France
| | - Stéphane Rocchi
- INSERM U1065, Centre Méditerranéen de Médecine Moléculaire (C3M), Nice, France
- Université de Nice Sophia Antipolis, UFR de Médecine, Nice, France
- *Correspondence: Stéphane Rocchi
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25
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Geter PA, Ernlund AW, Bakogianni S, Alard A, Arju R, Giashuddin S, Gadi A, Bromberg J, Schneider RJ. Hyperactive mTOR and MNK1 phosphorylation of eIF4E confer tamoxifen resistance and estrogen independence through selective mRNA translation reprogramming. Genes Dev 2017; 31:2235-2249. [PMID: 29269484 PMCID: PMC5769768 DOI: 10.1101/gad.305631.117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2017] [Accepted: 11/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Geter et al. show that tamoxifen resistance involves selective mRNA translational reprogramming to an anti-estrogen state by Runx2 and other mRNAs. Tamoxifen-resistant translational reprogramming is shown to be mediated by increased expression of eIF4E and its increased availability by hyperactive mTOR and to require phosphorylation of eIF4E at Ser209 by increased MNK activity. The majority of breast cancers expresses the estrogen receptor (ER+) and is treated with anti-estrogen therapies, particularly tamoxifen in premenopausal women. However, tamoxifen resistance is responsible for a large proportion of breast cancer deaths. Using small molecule inhibitors, phospho-mimetic proteins, tamoxifen-sensitive and tamoxifen-resistant breast cancer cells, a tamoxifen-resistant patient-derived xenograft model, patient tumor tissues, and genome-wide transcription and translation studies, we show that tamoxifen resistance involves selective mRNA translational reprogramming to an anti-estrogen state by Runx2 and other mRNAs. Tamoxifen-resistant translational reprogramming is shown to be mediated by increased expression of eIF4E and its increased availability by hyperactive mTOR and to require phosphorylation of eIF4E at Ser209 by increased MNK activity. Resensitization to tamoxifen is restored only by reducing eIF4E expression or mTOR activity and also blocking MNK1 phosphorylation of eIF4E. mRNAs specifically translationally up-regulated with tamoxifen resistance include Runx2, which inhibits ER signaling and estrogen responses and promotes breast cancer metastasis. Silencing Runx2 significantly restores tamoxifen sensitivity. Tamoxifen-resistant but not tamoxifen-sensitive patient ER+ breast cancer specimens also demonstrate strongly increased MNK phosphorylation of eIF4E. eIF4E levels, availability, and phosphorylation therefore promote tamoxifen resistance in ER+ breast cancer through selective mRNA translational reprogramming
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Affiliation(s)
- Phillip A Geter
- Department of Microbiology, Alexandria Center for Life Science, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016, USA
| | - Amanda W Ernlund
- Department of Microbiology, Alexandria Center for Life Science, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016, USA
| | - Sofia Bakogianni
- Department of Microbiology, Alexandria Center for Life Science, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016, USA
| | - Amandine Alard
- Department of Microbiology, Alexandria Center for Life Science, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016, USA
| | - Rezina Arju
- Department of Microbiology, Alexandria Center for Life Science, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016, USA
| | - Shah Giashuddin
- New York Presbyterian-Brooklyn Methodist Hospital, Brooklyn, New York 11215, USA
| | - Abhilash Gadi
- Department of Microbiology, Alexandria Center for Life Science, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016, USA
| | - Jacqueline Bromberg
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Institute, New York, New York 10016 USA.,Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016 USA
| | - Robert J Schneider
- Department of Microbiology, Alexandria Center for Life Science, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016, USA.,Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Institute, New York, New York 10016 USA.,Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016 USA
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26
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Bostner J, Alayev A, Berman AY, Fornander T, Nordenskjöld B, Holz MK, Stål O. Raptor localization predicts prognosis and tamoxifen response in estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2017; 168:17-27. [PMID: 29128895 PMCID: PMC5847064 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-017-4508-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2017] [Accepted: 09/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Purpose Deregulated PI3K/mTOR signals can promote the growth of breast cancer and contribute to endocrine treatment resistance. This report aims to investigate raptor and its intracellular localization to further understand its role in ER-positive breast cancer. Methods Raptor protein expression was evaluated by immunohistochemistry in 756 primary breast tumors from postmenopausal patients randomized to tamoxifen or no tamoxifen. In vitro, the MCF7 breast cancer cell line and tamoxifen-resistant MCF7 cells were studied to track the raptor signaling changes upon resistance, and raptor localization in ERα-positive cell lines was compared with that in ERα-negative cell lines. Results Raptor protein expression in the nucleus was high in ER/PgR-positive and HER2-negative tumors with low grade, features associated with the luminal A subtype. Presence of raptor in the nucleus was connected with ERα signaling, here shown by a coupled increase of ERα phosphorylation at S167 and S305 with accumulation of nuclear raptor. In addition, the expression of ERα-activated gene products correlated with nuclear raptor. Similarly, in vitro we observed raptor in the nucleus of ERα-positive, but not of ER-negative cells. Interestingly, raptor localized to the nucleus could still be seen in tamoxifen-resistant MCF7 cells. The clinical benefit from tamoxifen was inversely associated with an increase of nuclear raptor. High cytoplasmic raptor expression indicated worse prognosis on long-term follow-up. Conclusion We present a connection between raptor localization to the nucleus and ERα-positive breast cancer, suggesting raptor as a player in stimulating the growth of the luminal A subtype and a possible target along with endocrine treatment. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1007/s10549-017-4508-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josefine Bostner
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, and Department of Oncology, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.
| | - Anya Alayev
- Department of Biology, Yeshiva University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Adi Y Berman
- Department of Biology, Yeshiva University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Tommy Fornander
- Department of Oncology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm South General Hospital, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Bo Nordenskjöld
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, and Department of Oncology, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Marina K Holz
- Department of Biology, Yeshiva University, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA.,Albert Einstein Cancer Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Olle Stål
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, and Department of Oncology, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
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27
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Application of pharmacometrics and quantitative systems pharmacology to cancer therapy: The example of luminal a breast cancer. Pharmacol Res 2017; 124:20-33. [PMID: 28735000 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2017.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2017] [Revised: 06/09/2017] [Accepted: 07/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is the most common cancer in women, and the second most frequent cause of cancer-related deaths in women worldwide. It is a heterogeneous disease composed of multiple subtypes with distinct morphologies and clinical implications. Quantitative systems pharmacology (QSP) is an emerging discipline bridging systems biology with pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) leveraging the systematic understanding of drugs' efficacy and toxicity. Despite numerous challenges in applying computational methodologies for QSP and mechanism-based PK/PD models to biological, physiological, and pharmacological data, bridging these disciplines has the potential to enhance our understanding of complex disease systems such as BC. In QSP/PK/PD models, various sources of data are combined including large, multi-scale experimental data such as -omics (i.e. genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics), biomarkers (circulating and bound), PK, and PD endpoints. This offers a means for a translational application from pre-clinical mathematical models to patients, bridging the bench to bedside paradigm. Not only can these models be applied to inform and advance BC drug development, but they also could aid in optimizing combination therapies and rational dosing regimens for BC patients. Here, we review the current literature pertaining to the application of QSP and pharmacometrics-based pharmacotherapy in BC including bottom-up and top-down modeling approaches. Bottom-up modeling approaches employ mechanistic signal transduction pathways to predict the behavior of a biological system. The ones that are addressed in this review include signal transduction and homeostatic feedback modeling approaches. Alternatively, top-down modeling techniques are bioinformatics reconstruction techniques that infer static connections between molecules that make up a biological network and include (1) Bayesian networks, (2) co-expression networks, and (3) module-based approaches. This review also addresses novel techniques which utilize the principles of systems biology, synthetic lethality and tumor priming, both of which are discussed in relationship to novel drug targets and existing BC therapies. By utilizing QSP approaches, clinicians may develop a platform for improved dose individualization for subpopulation of BC patients, strengthen rationale in treatment designs, and explore mechanism elucidation for improving future treatments in BC medicine.
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28
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Ma R, Karthik GM, Lövrot J, Haglund F, Rosin G, Katchy A, Zhang X, Viberg L, Frisell J, Williams C, Linder S, Fredriksson I, Hartman J. Estrogen Receptor β as a Therapeutic Target in Breast Cancer Stem Cells. J Natl Cancer Inst 2017; 109:1-14. [PMID: 28376210 PMCID: PMC5441302 DOI: 10.1093/jnci/djw236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2014] [Accepted: 09/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Breast cancer cells with tumor-initiating capabilities (BSCs) are considered to maintain tumor growth and govern metastasis. Hence, targeting BSCs will be crucial to achieve successful treatment of breast cancer. Methods We characterized mammospheres derived from more than 40 cancer patients and two breast cancer cell lines for the expression of estrogen receptors (ERs) and stem cell markers. Mammosphere formation and proliferation assays were performed on cells from 19 cancer patients and five healthy individuals after incubation with ER-subtype selective ligands. Transcriptional analysis was performed to identify pathways activated in ERβ-stimulated mammospheres and verified using in vitro experiments. Xenograft models (n = 4 or 5 per group) were used to study the role of ERs during tumorigenesis. Results We identified an absence of ERα but upregulation of ERβ in BSCs associated with phenotypic stem cell markers and responsible for the proliferative role of estrogens. Knockdown of ERβ caused a reduction of mammosphere formation in cell lines and in patient-derived cancer cells (40.7%, 26.8%, and 39.1%, respectively). Gene set enrichment analysis identified glycolysis-related pathways (false discovery rate < 0.001) upregulated in ERβ-activated mammospheres. We observed that tamoxifen or fulvestrant alone was insufficient to block proliferation of patient-derived BSCs while this could be accomplished by a selective inhibitor of ERβ (PHTPP; 53.7% in luminal and 45.5% in triple-negative breast cancers). Furthermore, PHTPP reduced tumor initiation in two patient-derived xenografts (75.9% and 59.1% reduction in tumor volume, respectively) and potentiated tamoxifen-mediated inhibition of tumor growth in MCF7 xenografts. Conclusion We identify ERβ as a mediator of estrogen action in BSCs and a novel target for endocrine therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ran Ma
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Cancer Center Karolinska, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Govindasamy-Muralidharan Karthik
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Cancer Center Karolinska, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - John Lövrot
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Cancer Center Karolinska, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Felix Haglund
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Cancer Center Karolinska, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Pathology and Cytology, Karolinska University Laboratory, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Gustaf Rosin
- Cancer Center Karolinska, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Anne Katchy
- Center for Nuclear Receptors and Cell Signaling, Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Xiaonan Zhang
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Cancer Center Karolinska, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lisa Viberg
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Cancer Center Karolinska, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jan Frisell
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Breast and Endocrine Surgery, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Cecilia Williams
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden.,Center for Nuclear Receptors and Cell Signaling, Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA.,Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Proteomics, KTH, Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Stig Linder
- Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Department of Medicine and Health, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Irma Fredriksson
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Breast and Endocrine Surgery, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Johan Hartman
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Cancer Center Karolinska, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Pathology and Cytology, Karolinska University Laboratory, Stockholm, Sweden
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29
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Functional evaluation of synthetic flavonoids and chalcones for potential antiviral and anticancer properties. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2017; 27:2350-2356. [PMID: 28442256 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2017.04.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2017] [Revised: 04/08/2017] [Accepted: 04/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Flavonoids, stilbenes, and chalcones are plant secondary metabolites that often possess diverse biological activities including anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and anti-viral activities. The wide range of bioactivities poses a challenge to identify their targets. Here, we studied a set of synthetically generated flavonoids and chalcones to evaluate for their biological activity, and compared similarly substituted flavonoids and chalcones. Substituted chalcones, but not flavonoids, showed inhibition of viral translation without significantly affecting viral replication in cells infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV). We suggest that the chalcones used in this study inhibit mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway by ablating phosphorylation of ribosomal protein 6 (rps6), and also the kinase necessary for phosphorylating rps6 in Huh7.5 cells (pS6K1). In addition, selected chalcones showed inhibition of growth in Ishikawa, MCF7, and MDA-MB-231 cells resulting an IC50 of 1-6µg/mL. When similarly substituted flavonoids were used against the same set of cancer cells, we did not observe any inhibitory effect. Together, we report that chalcones show potential for anti-viral and anti-cancer activities compared to similarly substituted flavonoids.
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30
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Yang F, Xu J, Tang L, Guan X. Breast cancer stem cell: the roles and therapeutic implications. Cell Mol Life Sci 2017; 74:951-966. [PMID: 27530548 PMCID: PMC11107600 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-016-2334-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2016] [Revised: 08/04/2016] [Accepted: 08/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancers have been increasingly recognized as malignancies displaying frequent inter- and intra-tumor heterogeneity. This heterogeneity is represented by diverse subtypes and complexity within tumors, and impinges on response to therapy, metastasis, and prognosis. Cancer stem cells (CSCs), a subpopulation of cancer cells endowed with self-renewal and differentiation capacity, have been suggested to contribute to tumor heterogeneity. The CSC concept posits a hierarchical organization of tumors, at the apex of which are stem cells that drive tumor initiation, progression, and recurrence. In breast cancer, CSCs have been proposed to contribute to malignant progression, suggesting that targeting breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) may improve treatment efficacy. Currently, several markers have been reported to identify BCSCs. However, there is objective variability with respect to the frequency and phenotype of BCSCs among different breast cancer cell lines and patients, and the regulatory mechanisms of BCSCs remain unclear. In this review, we summarize current literature about the diversity of BCSC markers, the roles of BCSCs in tumor development, and the regulatory mechanisms of BCSCs. We also highlight the most recent advances in BCSC targeting therapies and the challenges in translating the knowledge into clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Yang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, China
| | - Jing Xu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, China
| | - Lin Tang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, China
| | - Xiaoxiang Guan
- Department of Medical Oncology, Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, China.
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31
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Martin AR, Ronco C, Demange L, Benhida R. Hypoxia inducible factor down-regulation, cancer and cancer stem cells (CSCs): ongoing success stories. MEDCHEMCOMM 2017; 8:21-52. [PMID: 30108689 PMCID: PMC6071925 DOI: 10.1039/c6md00432f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2016] [Accepted: 10/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
In cancers, hypoxia inducible factor 1 (HIF-1) is an over-expressed transcription factor, which regulates a large set of genes involved in tumour vascularization, metastases, and cancer stem cells (CSCs) formation and self-renewal. This protein has been identified as a relevant target in oncology and several HIF-1 modulators are now marketed or in advanced clinical trials. The purpose of this review is to summarize the advances in the understanding of its regulation and its inhibition, from the medicinal chemist point of view. To this end, we selected in the recent literature relevant examples of "hit" compounds, including small-sized organic molecules, pseudopeptides and nano-drugs, exhibiting in vitro and/or in vivo both anti-HIF-1 and anti-tumour activities. Whenever possible, a particular emphasis has been dedicated to compounds that selectively target CSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony R Martin
- Université Côte d'Azur , CNRS , Institut de Chimie de Nice UMR 7272 - 06108 Nice , France . ; ; ; Tel: +33 4 92076143
| | - Cyril Ronco
- Université Côte d'Azur , CNRS , Institut de Chimie de Nice UMR 7272 - 06108 Nice , France . ; ; ; Tel: +33 4 92076143
| | - Luc Demange
- Université Côte d'Azur , CNRS , Institut de Chimie de Nice UMR 7272 - 06108 Nice , France . ; ; ; Tel: +33 4 92076143
- UFR des Sciences Pharmaceutiques , Université Paris Descartes , Sorbonne Paris Cité , 4 avenue de l'Observatoire , Paris Fr-75006 , France
- UFR Biomédicale des Saints Pères , 45 rue des Saints Pères , Paris Fr-75006 , France
| | - Rachid Benhida
- Université Côte d'Azur , CNRS , Institut de Chimie de Nice UMR 7272 - 06108 Nice , France . ; ; ; Tel: +33 4 92076143
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32
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Ong PS, Wang LZ, Dai X, Tseng SH, Loo SJ, Sethi G. Judicious Toggling of mTOR Activity to Combat Insulin Resistance and Cancer: Current Evidence and Perspectives. Front Pharmacol 2016; 7:395. [PMID: 27826244 PMCID: PMC5079084 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2016.00395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2016] [Accepted: 10/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR), via its two distinct multiprotein complexes, mTORC1, and mTORC2, plays a central role in the regulation of cellular growth, metabolism, and migration. A dysregulation of the mTOR pathway has in turn been implicated in several pathological conditions including insulin resistance and cancer. Overactivation of mTORC1 and disruption of mTORC2 function have been reported to induce insulin resistance. On the other hand, aberrant mTORC1 and mTORC2 signaling via either genetic alterations or increased expression of proteins regulating mTOR and its downstream targets have contributed to cancer development. These underlined the attractiveness of mTOR as a therapeutic target to overcome both insulin resistance and cancer. This review summarizes the evidence supporting the notion of intermittent, low dose rapamycin for treating insulin resistance. It further highlights recent data on the continuous use of high dose rapamycin analogs and related second generation mTOR inhibitors for cancer eradication, for overcoming chemoresistance and for tumor stem cell suppression. Within these contexts, the potential challenges associated with the use of mTOR inhibitors are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei Shi Ong
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Science, National University of Singapore Singapore, Singapore
| | - Louis Z Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Science, National University of SingaporeSingapore, Singapore; Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of SingaporeSingapore, Singapore
| | - Xiaoyun Dai
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore Singapore, Singapore
| | - Sheng Hsuan Tseng
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Science, National University of Singapore Singapore, Singapore
| | - Shang Jun Loo
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Science, National University of Singapore Singapore, Singapore
| | - Gautam Sethi
- Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore Singapore, Singapore
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33
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Wu C, Luo J. Long Non-Coding RNA (lncRNA) Urothelial Carcinoma-Associated 1 (UCA1) Enhances Tamoxifen Resistance in Breast Cancer Cells via Inhibiting mTOR Signaling Pathway. Med Sci Monit 2016; 22:3860-3867. [PMID: 27765938 PMCID: PMC5077288 DOI: 10.12659/msm.900689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) UCA1 is an oncogene in breast cancer. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of UCA1 in tamoxifen resistance of estrogen receptor positive breast cancer cells. Material/Methods Tamoxifen sensitive MCF-7 cells were transfected for UCA1 overexpression, while tamoxifen resistant LCC2 and LCC9 cells were transfected with UCA siRNA for UCA1 knockdown. qRT-PCR was performed to analyze UCA1 expression. CCK-8 assay, immunofluorescence staining of cleaved caspase-9, and flow cytometric analysis of Annexin V/PI staining were used to assess tamoxifen sensitivity. Western blot analysis was performed to detect p-AKT and p-mTOR expression. Results LncRNA UCA1 was significantly upregulated in tamoxifen resistant breast cancer cells compared to tamoxifen sensitive cells. LCC2 and LCC9 cells transfected with UCA1 siRNA had significantly higher ratio of apoptosis after tamoxifen treatment. UCA1 siRNA significantly decreased the protein levels of p-AKT and p-mTOR in LCC2 and LCC9 cells. Enforced UCA1 expression substantially reduced tamoxifen induced apoptosis in MCF-7 cells, while rapamycin treatment abrogated the protective effect of UCA1. Conclusions UCA1 upregulation was associated with tamoxifen resistance in breast cancer. Mechanistically, UCA1 confers tamoxifen resistance to breast cancer cells partly via activating the mTOR signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chihua Wu
- Department of Breast Surgery, Sichuan Academy of Medical Science and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, China (mainland)
| | - Jing Luo
- Department of Breast Surgery, Sichuan Academy of Medical Science and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, China (mainland)
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Montales MTE, Melnyk SB, Liu SJ, Simmen FA, Liu YL, Simmen RCM. Metabolic history impacts mammary tumor epithelial hierarchy and early drug response in mice. Endocr Relat Cancer 2016; 23:677-90. [PMID: 27402613 PMCID: PMC4997088 DOI: 10.1530/erc-16-0136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2016] [Accepted: 07/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The emerging links between breast cancer and metabolic dysfunctions brought forth by the obesity pandemic predict a disproportionate early disease onset in successive generations. Moreover, sensitivity to chemotherapeutic agents may be influenced by the patient's metabolic status that affects the disease outcome. Maternal metabolic stress as a determinant of drug response in progeny is not well defined. Here, we evaluated mammary tumor response to doxorubicin in female mouse mammary tumor virus-Wnt1 transgenic offspring exposed to a metabolically compromised environment imposed by maternal high-fat diet. Control progeny were from dams consuming diets with regular fat content. Maternal high-fat diet exposure increased tumor incidence and reduced tumor latency but did not affect tumor volume response to doxorubicin, compared with control diet exposure. However, doxorubicin-treated tumors from high-fat-diet-exposed offspring demonstrated higher proliferation status (Ki-67), mammary stem cell-associated gene expression (Notch1, Aldh1) and basal stem cell-like (CD29(hi)CD24(+)) epithelial subpopulation frequencies, than tumors from control diet progeny. Notably, all epithelial subpopulations (CD29(hi)CD24(+), CD29(lo)CD24(+), CD29(hi)CD24(+)Thy1(+)) in tumors from high-fat-diet-exposed offspring were refractory to doxorubicin. Further, sera from high-fat-diet-exposed offspring promoted sphere formation of mouse mammary tumor epithelial cells and of human MCF7 cells. Untargeted metabolomics analyses identified higher levels of kynurenine and 2-hydroxyglutarate in plasma of high-fat diet than control diet offspring. Kynurenine/doxorubicin co-treatment of MCF7 cells enhanced the ability to form mammosphere and decreased apoptosis, relative to doxorubicin-only-treated cells. Maternal metabolic dysfunctions during pregnancy and lactation may be targeted to reduce breast cancer risk and improve early drug response in progeny, and may inform clinical management of disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Theresa E Montales
- Department of Physiology and BiophysicsUniversity of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| | - Stepan B Melnyk
- Department of PediatricsUniversity of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA Arkansas Children's Hospital Research InstituteUniversity of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| | - Shi J Liu
- Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| | - Frank A Simmen
- Department of Physiology and BiophysicsUniversity of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA The Winthrop P Rockefeller Cancer InstituteUniversity of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| | - Y Lucy Liu
- The Winthrop P Rockefeller Cancer InstituteUniversity of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA Department of Internal MedicineUniversity of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
| | - Rosalia C M Simmen
- Department of Physiology and BiophysicsUniversity of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA The Winthrop P Rockefeller Cancer InstituteUniversity of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, USA
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35
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Steelman LS, Martelli AM, Cocco L, Libra M, Nicoletti F, Abrams SL, McCubrey JA. The therapeutic potential of mTOR inhibitors in breast cancer. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2016; 82:1189-1212. [PMID: 27059645 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.12958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2015] [Revised: 03/29/2016] [Accepted: 03/31/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Rapamycin and modified rapamycins (rapalogs) have been used to prevent allograft rejection after organ transplant for over 15 years. The mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) has been determined to be a key component of the mTORC1 complex which consists of the serine/threonine kinase TOR and at least five other proteins which are involved in regulating its activity. Some of the best characterized substrates of mTORC1 are proteins which are key kinases involved in the regulation of cell growth (e.g., p70S6K) and protein translation (e.g., 4E-BP1). These proteins may in some cases serve as indicators to sensitivity to rapamycin-related therapies. Dysregulation of mTORC1 activity frequently occurs due to mutations at, or amplifications of, upstream growth factor receptors (e.g., human epidermal growth factor receptor-2, HER2) as well as kinases (e.g., PI3K) and phosphatases (e.g., PTEN) critical in the regulation of cell growth. More recently, it has been shown that certain rapalogs may enhance the effectiveness of hormonal-based therapies for breast cancer patients who have become resistant to endocrine therapy. The combined treatment of certain rapalogs (e.g., everolimus) and aromatase inhibitors (e.g., exemestane) has been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (US FDA) and other drug regulatory agencies to treat estrogen receptor positive (ER+) breast cancer patients who have become resistant to hormonal-based therapies and have progressed. This review will summarize recent basic and clinical research in the area and evaluate potential novel therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda S Steelman
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - Alberto M Martelli
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Neuromotorie, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Lucio Cocco
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Neuromotorie, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Massimo Libra
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Laboratory of Translational Oncology & Functional Genomics, Section of Pathology & Oncology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Ferdinando Nicoletti
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Laboratory of Translational Oncology & Functional Genomics, Section of Pathology & Oncology, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Stephen L Abrams
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
| | - James A McCubrey
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA.
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Papi A, Orlandi M. Role of nuclear receptors in breast cancer stem cells. World J Stem Cells 2016; 8:62-72. [PMID: 27022437 PMCID: PMC4807310 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v8.i3.62] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2015] [Revised: 12/17/2015] [Accepted: 01/27/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The recapitulation of primary tumour heterogenity and the existence of a minor sub-population of cancer cells, capable of initiating tumour growth in xenografts on serial passages, led to the hypothesis that cancer stem cells (CSCs) exist. CSCs are present in many tumours, among which is breast cancer. Breast CSCs (BCSCs) are likely to sustain the growth of the primary tumour mass, as well as to be responsible for disease relapse and metastatic spreading. Consequently, BCSCs represent the most significant target for new drugs in breast cancer therapy. Both the hypoxic condition in BCSCs biology and pro-inflammatory cytokine network has gained increasing importance in the recent past. Breast stromal cells are crucial components of the tumours milieu and are a major source of inflammatory mediators. Recently, the anti-inflammatory role of some nuclear receptors ligands has emerged in several diseases, including breast cancer. Therefore, the use of nuclear receptors ligands may be a valid strategy to inhibit BCSCs viability and consequently breast cancer growth and disease relapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessio Papi
- Alessio Papi, Marina Orlandi, Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Science (BiGea), University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Marina Orlandi
- Alessio Papi, Marina Orlandi, Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Science (BiGea), University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy
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Cermeño EA, García AJ. Tumor-Initiating Cells: Emerging Biophysical Methods of Isolation. CURRENT STEM CELL REPORTS 2016; 2:21-32. [PMID: 27141429 PMCID: PMC4851112 DOI: 10.1007/s40778-016-0036-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The discovery and subsequent isolation of tumor-initiating cells (TICs), a small population of highly tumorigenic and drug-resistant cancer cells also called cancer stem cells (CSCs), have revolutionized our understanding of cancer. TICs are isolated using various methodologies, including selection of surface marker expression, ALDH activity, suspension culture, and chemotherapy/drug resistance. These methods have several drawbacks, including their variability, lack of robustness and scalability, and low specificity. Alternative methods of purification take advantage of biophysical properties of TICs including their adhesion and stiffness. This review will provide a brief overview of TIC biology as well as review the most important methods of TIC isolation with a focus on biophysical methods of TIC purification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Efraín A. Cermeño
- Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA
- Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA
| | - Andrés J. García
- Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA
- Petit Institute for Bioengineering and Bioscience, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA
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Dirican E, Akkiprik M, Özer A. Mutation distributions and clinical correlations of PIK3CA gene mutations in breast cancer. Tumour Biol 2016; 37:7033-45. [PMID: 26921096 DOI: 10.1007/s13277-016-4924-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2015] [Accepted: 01/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BCa) is the most common cancer and the second cause of death among women. Phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) signaling pathway has a crucial role in the cellular processes such as cell survival, growth, division, and motility. Moreover, oncogenic mutations in the PI3K pathway generally involve the activation phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase-catalytic subunit alpha (PIK3CA) mutation which has been identified in numerous BCa subtypes. In this review, correlations between PIK3CA mutations and their clinicopathological parameters on BCa will be described. It is reported that PIK3CA mutations which have been localized mostly on exon 9 and 20 hot spots are detected 25-40 % in BCa. This relatively high frequency can offer an advantage for choosing the best treatment options for BCa. PIK3CA mutations may be used as biomarkers and have been major focus of drug development in cancer with the first clinical trials of PI3K pathway inhibitors currently in progress. Screening of PIK3CA gene mutations might be useful genetic tests for targeted therapeutics or diagnosis. Increasing data about PIK3CA mutations and its clinical correlations with BCa will help to introduce new clinical applications in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ebubekir Dirican
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Medicine, Marmara University, Başıbüyük Mah., Maltepe Başıbüyük Yolu Sok., No: 9/1, 34854, Maltepe, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Mustafa Akkiprik
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Medicine, Marmara University, Başıbüyük Mah., Maltepe Başıbüyük Yolu Sok., No: 9/1, 34854, Maltepe, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Ayşe Özer
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Medicine, Marmara University, Başıbüyük Mah., Maltepe Başıbüyük Yolu Sok., No: 9/1, 34854, Maltepe, Istanbul, Turkey
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Francipane MG, Lagasse E. Therapeutic potential of mTOR inhibitors for targeting cancer stem cells. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2015; 82:1180-1188. [PMID: 26609914 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.12844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2015] [Revised: 11/20/2015] [Accepted: 11/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway is aberrantly activated in many cancer types. As the intricate network of regulatory mechanisms controlling mTOR activity is uncovered, more refined drugs are designed and tested in clinical trials. While first generation mTOR inhibitors have failed to show clinical efficacy due partly to the feedback relief of oncogenetic circuits, newly developed inhibitors show greater promise as anti-cancer agents. An effective drug must defeat the cancer stem cells (CSCs) while sparing the normal stem cells. Due to its opposing role on normal and malignant stem cells, mTOR lends itself very well as a therapeutic target. Indeed, a preferential inhibitory effect on CSCs has already been shown for some mTOR inhibitors. These results provide a compelling rationale for the clinical development of mTOR-targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Giovanna Francipane
- McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15219, USA. .,Ri.MED Foundation, 90133, Palermo, Italy.
| | - Eric Lagasse
- McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15219, USA
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40
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Maiese K. Targeting molecules to medicine with mTOR, autophagy and neurodegenerative disorders. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2015; 82:1245-1266. [PMID: 26469771 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.12804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2015] [Revised: 10/11/2015] [Accepted: 10/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative disorders are significantly increasing in incidence as the age of the global population continues to climb with improved life expectancy. At present, more than 30 million individuals throughout the world are impacted by acute and chronic neurodegenerative disorders with limited treatment strategies. The mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR), also known as the mammalian target of rapamycin, is a 289 kDa serine/threonine protein kinase that offers exciting possibilities for novel treatment strategies for a host of neurodegenerative diseases that include Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, epilepsy, stroke and trauma. mTOR governs the programmed cell death pathways of apoptosis and autophagy that can determine neuronal stem cell development, precursor cell differentiation, cell senescence, cell survival and ultimate cell fate. Coupled to the cellular biology of mTOR are a number of considerations for the development of novel treatments involving the fine control of mTOR signalling, tumourigenesis, complexity of the apoptosis and autophagy relationship, functional outcome in the nervous system, and the intimately linked pathways of growth factors, phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI 3-K), protein kinase B (Akt), AMP activated protein kinase (AMPK), silent mating type information regulation two homologue one (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) (SIRT1) and others. Effective clinical translation of the cellular signalling mechanisms of mTOR offers provocative avenues for new drug development in the nervous system tempered only by the need to elucidate further the intricacies of the mTOR pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth Maiese
- Cellular and Molecular Signaling, Newark, New Jersey, 07101, USA.
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41
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Stadler M, Walter S, Walzl A, Kramer N, Unger C, Scherzer M, Unterleuthner D, Hengstschläger M, Krupitza G, Dolznig H. Increased complexity in carcinomas: Analyzing and modeling the interaction of human cancer cells with their microenvironment. Semin Cancer Biol 2015; 35:107-24. [DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2015.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2015] [Revised: 08/19/2015] [Accepted: 08/21/2015] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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