1
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Farahani M, Ghazimoradi MH. Dissecting the roles of exosomal cancer-associated fibroblasts-derived non-coding RNAs in tumor progression: A complete guide. Pathol Res Pract 2024; 262:155576. [PMID: 39232286 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2024.155576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2024] [Revised: 08/28/2024] [Accepted: 08/29/2024] [Indexed: 09/06/2024]
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts are the most important cellular component of the tumor microenvironment, controlling cancer progression and therapeutic response. These cells in the tumor microenvironment regulate tumor progression and development as oncogenic or tumor suppressor agents. However, the mechanisms by which CAFs communicate with cancer cells remain to investigate. Here, we review evidence that extracellular vesicles, particularly exosomes, serve as vehicles for the intercellular transfer of bioactive cargos, notably microRNAs and long non-coding RNAs, from CAFs to cancer cells. We try to highlight molecular pathways of non-coding RNAs and the interaction among these molecules. Together, these findings elucidate a critical exosome-based communication axis by which CAFs create mostly a supportive pro-tumorigenic microenvironment and highlight therapeutic opportunities for disrupting this intercellular crosstalk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahnaz Farahani
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Hazrat Rasool-E Akram, General Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad H Ghazimoradi
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Biological Science, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
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2
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Cheng L, Zhang L, Wang X, Wang Y, Yu J, Li M, Ma Z, Chi-Lui Ho P, Chen X, Wang L, Sethi G, Goh BC. Extracellular vesicles in the HCC microenvironment: Implications for therapy and biomarkers. Pharmacol Res 2024; 209:107419. [PMID: 39284428 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2024] [Revised: 09/10/2024] [Accepted: 09/12/2024] [Indexed: 09/20/2024]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) stands as the sixth most prevalent cancer and the third leading cause of cancer mortality globally. Despite surgical resection being the preferred approach for early-stage HCC, most patients are diagnosed at intermediate to advanced stages, limiting treatment options to chemotherapy and immunotherapy, which often yield poor outcomes. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), minute lipid-bilayered particles released by diverse cells under various physiological and pathological conditions, are crucial for mediating communication between cells. Mounting evidence indicates that EVs sourced from different cells can profoundly influence the HCC tumor microenvironment (TME), thereby affecting the progression of HCC. Given their immunogenicity and liver-targeting properties, these EVs not only hold promise for HCC treatment but also provide avenues for advancing early diagnostic methods and assessing prognosis. This review not only describes the function of EVs within the HCC tumor microenvironment but also analyzes their therapeutic advantages and explores their significance in various therapeutic approaches for HCC, including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, combination therapy, and their role as innovative drug delivery carriers. Furthermore, it highlights the potential of EVs as biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Le Cheng
- School of Basic Medicine, Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434023, China
| | - Limin Zhang
- Jingzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jingzhou 434000, China; The Third Clinical Medical College of Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434000, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Wang
- School of Basic Medicine, Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434023, China
| | - Yufei Wang
- School of Basic Medicine, Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434023, China
| | - Jiahui Yu
- School of Basic Medicine, Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434023, China
| | - Mengnan Li
- School of Basic Medicine, Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434023, China
| | - Zhaowu Ma
- School of Basic Medicine, Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434023, China
| | - Paul Chi-Lui Ho
- School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Subang Jaya 47500, Malaysia
| | - Xiaoguang Chen
- School of Basic Medicine, Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434023, China.
| | - Lingzhi Wang
- NUS Centre for Cancer Research (N2CR), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117599, Singapore; Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117600, Singapore; Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117599, Singapore.
| | - Gautam Sethi
- NUS Centre for Cancer Research (N2CR), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117599, Singapore; Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117600, Singapore.
| | - Boon-Cher Goh
- NUS Centre for Cancer Research (N2CR), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117599, Singapore; Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117600, Singapore; Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117599, Singapore; Department of Haematology-Oncology, National University Cancer Institute, 119228, Singapore
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3
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Qiu W, Zhang S, Yu W, Liu J, Wu H. Non-coding RNAs in hepatocellular carcinoma metastasis: Remarkable indicators and potential oncogenic mechanism. Comput Biol Med 2024; 180:108867. [PMID: 39089114 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2024.108867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/07/2024] [Indexed: 08/03/2024]
Abstract
Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), as key regulators involving in intercellular biological processes, are more prominent in many malignancies, especially for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Herein, we conduct a comprehensive review to summarize diverse ncRNAs roles in HCC metastatic mechanism. We focus on four signaling pathways that predominate in HCC metastatic process, including Wnt/β-catenin, HIF-1α, IL-6, and TGF-β pathways. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs) employed different mechanisms to participate in the regulation of the key genes in these pathways, typical as interaction with DNA to control transcription, with RNA to control translation, and with protein to control stability. Therefore, ncRNAs may become potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for HCC metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenqi Qiu
- Department of Plastic and Aesthetic Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Song Zhang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Wei Yu
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jian Liu
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Huiling Wu
- Department of Plastic and Aesthetic Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China; College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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4
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Feng H, Liu J, Jia H, Bu X, Yang W, Su P. Cancer-associated fibroblasts-derived exosomal ZNF250 promotes the proliferation, migration, invasion, and immune escape of hepatocellular carcinoma cells by transcriptionally activating PD-L1. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2024; 38:e23778. [PMID: 39252517 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.23778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2024] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/14/2024] [Indexed: 09/11/2024]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a lethal form of liver cancer, and the tumor microenvironment, particularly cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), plays a critical role in its progression. This study aimed to elucidate the mechanism by which CAF-derived exosomes regulate the development of HCC. The study employed quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction for mRNA expression analysis and western blot analysis for protein expression detection. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assay and dual-luciferase reporter assay were performed to investigate the relationship between zinc finger protein 250 (ZNF250) and programmed cell death 1 ligand 1 (PD-L1). Transmission electron microscopy and western blot analysis were used to characterize the isolated exosomes. The transferability of CAF-derived exosomes and normal fibroblasts (NFs)-derived exosomes into HCC cells was analyzed using a green fluorescent labeling dye PKH67. Cell proliferation was assessed via a 5-Ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine assay, while Transwell assays were conducted to evaluate cell migration and invasion. Flow cytometry was performed to measure cell apoptosis, while enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays were used to assess the levels of tumor necrosis factor-α and perforin. Finally, a xenograft mouse model was constructed to examine the effects of exosomes derived from ZNF250-deficient CAFs on the tumor properties of HCC cells. The study revealed increased expression of ZNF250 in HCC tissues and cells, with ZNF250 transcriptionally activating PD-L1 in HCC cells. ZNF250 expression was associated with HbsAg, clinical stage and tumor size of HCC patients. CAF-derived exosomal ZNF250 can regulate PD-L1 expression in HCC cells. Furthermore, exosomes derived from ZNF250-deficient CAFs inhibited the proliferation, migration, invasion, and immune escape of HCC cells by downregulating PD-L1 expression. Moreover, CAF-derived exosomal ZNF250 promoted tumor formation in vivo. These findings provide insights into the role of CAF-derived exosomes in the suppression of HCC development, highlighting the significance of ZNF250 and PD-L1 regulation in tumor progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huizhi Feng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanxi Province Cancer Hospital/Shanxi Hospital Affiliated to Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences/Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Jingmei Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanxi Province Cancer Hospital/Shanxi Hospital Affiliated to Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences/Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Haixia Jia
- Department of Scientific Research, Shanxi Province Cancer Hospital/Shanxi Hospital Affiliated to Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences/Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Xiaoqian Bu
- Department of Digestive System Cancer Center, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Taiyuan, China
| | - Wenhui Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanxi Province Cancer Hospital/Shanxi Hospital Affiliated to Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences/Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Peng Su
- Department of Medical Service, Shanxi Province Cancer Hospital/Shanxi Hospital Affiliated to Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences/Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
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Mahboobnia K, Beveridge DJ, Yeoh GC, Kabir TD, Leedman PJ. MicroRNAs in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Pathogenesis: Insights into Mechanisms and Therapeutic Opportunities. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:9393. [PMID: 39273339 PMCID: PMC11395074 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25179393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2024] [Revised: 08/18/2024] [Accepted: 08/20/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) presents a significant global health burden, with alarming statistics revealing its rising incidence and high mortality rates. Despite advances in medical care, HCC treatment remains challenging due to late-stage diagnosis, limited effective therapeutic options, tumor heterogeneity, and drug resistance. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have attracted substantial attention as key regulators of HCC pathogenesis. These small non-coding RNA molecules play pivotal roles in modulating gene expression, implicated in various cellular processes relevant to cancer development. Understanding the intricate network of miRNA-mediated molecular pathways in HCC is essential for unraveling the complex mechanisms underlying hepatocarcinogenesis and developing novel therapeutic approaches. This manuscript aims to provide a comprehensive review of recent experimental and clinical discoveries regarding the complex role of miRNAs in influencing the key hallmarks of HCC, as well as their promising clinical utility as potential therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khadijeh Mahboobnia
- Laboratory for Cancer Medicine, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, QEII Medical Centre, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
- Centre for Medical Research, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Dianne J Beveridge
- Laboratory for Cancer Medicine, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, QEII Medical Centre, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
- Centre for Medical Research, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
| | - George C Yeoh
- Laboratory for Cancer Medicine, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, QEII Medical Centre, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
- School of Molecular Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Tasnuva D Kabir
- Laboratory for Cancer Medicine, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, QEII Medical Centre, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
- Centre for Medical Research, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Peter J Leedman
- Laboratory for Cancer Medicine, Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, QEII Medical Centre, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
- Centre for Medical Research, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
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Bayat M, Sadri Nahand J. Exosomal miRNAs: the tumor's trojan horse in selective metastasis. Mol Cancer 2024; 23:167. [PMID: 39164756 PMCID: PMC11334467 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-024-02081-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Organs of future metastasis are not passive receivers of circulating tumor cells, but are instead selectively and actively modified by the primary tumor before metastatic spread has even occurred. Tumors orchestrate a pre-metastatic program by conditioning distant organs to create microenvironments that foster the survival and proliferation of tumor cells before their arrival, thereby establishing pre-metastatic niches. Primary tumor-derived exosomes modulate these pre-metastatic niches, generating a permissive environment that facilitates the homing and expansion of tumor cells. Moreover, microRNAs have emerged as a key component of exosomal cargo, serving not only to induce the formation of pre-metastatic niches but also to prime these sites for the arrival and colonization of specific secondary tumor populations. Against this backdrop, this review endeavors to elucidate the impact of tumor-derived exosomal microRNAs on the genesis of their individualized pre-metastatic niches, with a view towards identifying novel means of specifying cancer metastasis and exploiting this phenomenon for cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mobina Bayat
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, 15731, Iran
| | - Javid Sadri Nahand
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, 15731, Iran.
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Tsui YM, Tian L, Lu J, Ma H, Ng IOL. Interplay among extracellular vesicles, cancer stemness and immune regulation in driving hepatocellular carcinoma progression. Cancer Lett 2024; 597:217084. [PMID: 38925362 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.217084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2024] [Revised: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
The intricate interplay among extracellular vesicles, cancer stemness properties, and the immune system significantly impacts hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression, treatment response, and patient prognosis. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), which are membrane-bound structures, play a pivotal role in conveying proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids between cells, thereby serving as essential mediators of intercellular communication. Since a lot of current research focuses on small extracellular vesicles (sEVs), with diameters ranging from 30 nm to 200 nm, this review emphasizes the role of sEVs in the context of interactions between HCC stemness-bearing cells and the immune cells. sEVs offer promising opportunities for the clinical application of innovative diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in HCC. By specifically targeting sEVs, novel therapeutics aimed at cancer stemness can be developed. Ongoing investigations into the roles of sEVs in cancer stemness and immune regulation in HCC will broaden our understanding and ultimately pave the way for groundbreaking therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Man Tsui
- Department of Pathology, Hong Kong; State Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Lu Tian
- Department of Pathology, Hong Kong; State Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Jingyi Lu
- Department of Pathology, Hong Kong; State Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Huanhuan Ma
- Department of Pathology, Hong Kong; State Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Irene Oi-Lin Ng
- Department of Pathology, Hong Kong; State Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
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8
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Yin Y, Feng W, Chen J, Chen X, Wang G, Wang S, Xu X, Nie Y, Fan D, Wu K, Xia L. Immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment in the progression, metastasis, and therapy of hepatocellular carcinoma: from bench to bedside. Exp Hematol Oncol 2024; 13:72. [PMID: 39085965 PMCID: PMC11292955 DOI: 10.1186/s40164-024-00539-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a highly heterogeneous malignancy with high incidence, recurrence, and metastasis rates. The emergence of immunotherapy has improved the treatment of advanced HCC, but problems such as drug resistance and immune-related adverse events still exist in clinical practice. The immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) of HCC restricts the efficacy of immunotherapy and is essential for HCC progression and metastasis. Therefore, it is necessary to elucidate the mechanisms behind immunosuppressive TME to develop and apply immunotherapy. This review systematically summarizes the pathogenesis of HCC, the formation of the highly heterogeneous TME, and the mechanisms by which the immunosuppressive TME accelerates HCC progression and metastasis. We also review the status of HCC immunotherapy and further discuss the existing challenges and potential therapeutic strategies targeting immunosuppressive TME. We hope to inspire optimizing and innovating immunotherapeutic strategies by comprehensively understanding the structure and function of immunosuppressive TME in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Weibo Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Jie Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Xilang Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Guodong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Shuai Wang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, China
| | - Xiao Xu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, China
| | - Yongzhan Nie
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China.
| | - Daiming Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China.
| | - Kaichun Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China.
| | - Limin Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China.
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei Province, China.
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El Hayek T, Alnaser-Almusa OA, Alsalameh SM, Alhalabi MT, Sabbah AN, Alshehri EA, Mir TA, Mani NK, Al-Kattan K, Chinnappan R, Yaqinuddin A. Emerging role of exosomal microRNA in liver cancer in the era of precision medicine; potential and challenges. Front Mol Biosci 2024; 11:1381789. [PMID: 38993840 PMCID: PMC11236732 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2024.1381789] [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: 02/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Exosomal microRNAs (miRNAs) have great potential in the fight against hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the fourth most common cause of cancer-related death worldwide. In this study, we explored the various applications of these small molecules while analyzing their complex roles in tumor development, metastasis, and changes in the tumor microenvironment. We also discussed the complex interactions that exist between exosomal miRNAs and other non-coding RNAs such as circular RNAs, and show how these interactions coordinate important biochemical pathways that propel the development of HCC. The possibility of targeting exosomal miRNAs for therapeutic intervention is paramount, even beyond their mechanistic significance. We also highlighted their growing potential as cutting-edge biomarkers that could lead to tailored treatment plans by enabling early identification, precise prognosis, and real-time treatment response monitoring. This thorough analysis revealed an intricate network of exosomal miRNAs lead to HCC progression. Finally, strategies for purification and isolation of exosomes and advanced biosensing techniques for detection of exosomal miRNAs are also discussed. Overall, this comprehensive review sheds light on the complex web of exosomal miRNAs in HCC, offering valuable insights for future advancements in diagnosis, prognosis, and ultimately, improved outcomes for patients battling this deadly disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarek El Hayek
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | | | | | | | | | - Eman Abdullah Alshehri
- Tissue/Organ Bioengineering and BioMEMS Laboratory, Organ Transplant Centre of Excellence (TR&I-Dpt), King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Tanveer Ahmad Mir
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Tissue/Organ Bioengineering and BioMEMS Laboratory, Organ Transplant Centre of Excellence (TR&I-Dpt), King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Naresh Kumar Mani
- Centre for Microfluidics, Biomarkers, Photoceutics and Sensors (μBioPS), Department of Biotechnology, Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Khaled Al-Kattan
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Lung Health Center Department, Organ Transplant Centre of Excellence, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Raja Chinnappan
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Tissue/Organ Bioengineering and BioMEMS Laboratory, Organ Transplant Centre of Excellence (TR&I-Dpt), King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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10
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Moghassemi S, Dadashzadeh A, Sousa MJ, Vlieghe H, Yang J, León-Félix CM, Amorim CA. Extracellular vesicles in nanomedicine and regenerative medicine: A review over the last decade. Bioact Mater 2024; 36:126-156. [PMID: 38450204 PMCID: PMC10915394 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2024.02.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) are known to be secreted by a vast majority of cells. These sEVs, specifically exosomes, induce specific cell-to-cell interactions and can activate signaling pathways in recipient cells through fusion or interaction. These nanovesicles possess several desirable properties, making them ideal for regenerative medicine and nanomedicine applications. These properties include exceptional stability, biocompatibility, wide biodistribution, and minimal immunogenicity. However, the practical utilization of sEVs, particularly in clinical settings and at a large scale, is hindered by the expensive procedures required for their isolation, limited circulation lifetime, and suboptimal targeting capacity. Despite these challenges, sEVs have demonstrated a remarkable ability to accommodate various cargoes and have found extensive applications in the biomedical sciences. To overcome the limitations of sEVs and broaden their potential applications, researchers should strive to deepen their understanding of current isolation, loading, and characterization techniques. Additionally, acquiring fundamental knowledge about sEVs origins and employing state-of-the-art methodologies in nanomedicine and regenerative medicine can expand the sEVs research scope. This review provides a comprehensive overview of state-of-the-art exosome-based strategies in diverse nanomedicine domains, encompassing cancer therapy, immunotherapy, and biomarker applications. Furthermore, we emphasize the immense potential of exosomes in regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeid Moghassemi
- Pôle de Recherche en Physiopathologie de La Reproduction, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Arezoo Dadashzadeh
- Pôle de Recherche en Physiopathologie de La Reproduction, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Maria João Sousa
- Pôle de Recherche en Physiopathologie de La Reproduction, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Hanne Vlieghe
- Pôle de Recherche en Physiopathologie de La Reproduction, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jie Yang
- Pôle de Recherche en Physiopathologie de La Reproduction, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Cecibel María León-Félix
- Pôle de Recherche en Physiopathologie de La Reproduction, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Christiani A. Amorim
- Pôle de Recherche en Physiopathologie de La Reproduction, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
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11
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Guerra F, Ponziani FR, Cardone F, Bucci C, Marzetti E, Picca A. Mitochondria-Derived Vesicles, Sterile Inflammation, and Pyroptosis in Liver Cancer: Partners in Crime or Innocent Bystanders? Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4783. [PMID: 38732000 PMCID: PMC11084658 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25094783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Alterations in cellular signaling, chronic inflammation, and tissue remodeling contribute to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development. The release of damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) upon tissue injury and the ensuing sterile inflammation have also been attributed a role in HCC pathogenesis. Cargoes of extracellular vesicles (EVs) and/or EVs themselves have been listed among circulating DAMPs but only partially investigated in HCC. Mitochondria-derived vesicles (MDVs), a subpopulation of EVs, are another missing link in the comprehension of the molecular mechanisms underlying the onset and progression of HCC biology. EVs have been involved in HCC growth, dissemination, angiogenesis, and immunosurveillance escape. The contribution of MDVs to these processes is presently unclear. Pyroptosis triggers systemic inflammation through caspase-dependent apoptotic cell death and is implicated in tumor immunity. The analysis of this process, together with MDV characterization, may help capture the relationship among HCC development, mitochondrial quality control, and inflammation. The combination of immune checkpoint inhibitors (i.e., atezolizumab and bevacizumab) has been approved as a synergistic first-line systemic treatment for unresectable or advanced HCC. The lack of biomarkers that may allow prediction of treatment response and, therefore, patient selection, is a major unmet need. Herein, we overview the molecular mechanisms linking mitochondrial dysfunction, inflammation, and pyroptosis, and discuss how immunotherapy targets, at least partly, these routes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flora Guerra
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies, Università del Salento, Via Provinciale Lecce–Moteroni 165, 73100 Lecce, Italy;
| | - Francesca Romana Ponziani
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario “Agostino Gemelli” IRCCS, L.go A. Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy; (F.R.P.); (F.C.); (E.M.)
| | - Ferdinando Cardone
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario “Agostino Gemelli” IRCCS, L.go A. Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy; (F.R.P.); (F.C.); (E.M.)
| | - Cecilia Bucci
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Università del Salento, Via Provinciale Lecce–Moteroni 165, 73100 Lecce, Italy;
| | - Emanuele Marzetti
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario “Agostino Gemelli” IRCCS, L.go A. Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy; (F.R.P.); (F.C.); (E.M.)
- Department of Geriatrics, Orthopedics and Rheumatology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, L.go F. Vito 1, 00618 Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Picca
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario “Agostino Gemelli” IRCCS, L.go A. Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome, Italy; (F.R.P.); (F.C.); (E.M.)
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, LUM University, SS100 km 18, 70010 Casamassima, Italy
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12
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Raghav A, Jeong GB. Nanoquercetin and Extracellular Vesicles as Potential Anticancer Therapeutics in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cells 2024; 13:638. [PMID: 38607076 PMCID: PMC11011524 DOI: 10.3390/cells13070638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite world-class sophisticated technologies, robotics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning approaches, cancer-associated mortalities and morbidities have shown continuous increments posing a healthcare burden. Drug-based interventions were associated with systemic toxicities and several limitations. Natural bioactive compounds derived nanoformulations, especially nanoquercetin (nQ), are alternative options to overcome drug-associated limitations. Moreover, the EVs-based cargo targeted delivery of nQ can have enormous potential in treating hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). EVs-based nQ delivery synergistically regulates and dysregulates several pathways, including NF-κB, p53, JAK/STAT, MAPK, Wnt/β-catenin, and PI3K/AKT, along with PBX3/ERK1/2/CDK2, and miRNAs intonation. Furthermore, discoveries on possible checkpoints of anticancer signaling pathways were studied, which might lead to the development of modified EVs infused with nQ for the development of innovative treatments for HCC. In this work, we abridged the control of such signaling systems using a synergetic strategy with EVs and nQ. The governing roles of extracellular vesicles controlling the expression of miRNAs were investigated, particularly in relation to HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Goo Bo Jeong
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, College of Medicine, Gachon University, 155 Getbeol-ro, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 21999, Republic of Korea;
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13
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Huang Q, Zhong X, Li J, Hu R, Yi J, Sun J, Xu Y, Zhou X. Exosomal ncRNAs: Multifunctional contributors to the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment of hepatocellular carcinoma. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 173:116409. [PMID: 38460375 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a malignant liver cancer characterized by aggressive progression, unfavorable prognosis, and an increasing global health burden. Therapies that precisely target immunological checkpoints and immune cells have gained significant attention as possible therapeutics in recent years. In truth, the efficacy of immunotherapy is heavily contingent upon the tumor microenvironment (TME). Recent studies have indicated that exosomes serve as a sophisticated means of communication among biomolecules, executing an essential part in the TME of immune suppression. Exosomal non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) can induce the activation of tumor cells and immunosuppressive immune cells that suppress the immune system, such as cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), tumor-associated neutrophils (TANs), CD+8 T cells, regulatory T cells (Tregs), and regulatory B cells (Bregs). This cell-cell crosstalk triggered by exosomal ncRNAs promotes tumor proliferation and metastasis, angiogenesis, malignant phenotype transformation, and drug resistance. Hence, it is imperative to comprehend how exosomal ncRNAs regulate tumor cells or immune cells within the TME to devise more comprehensive and productive immunotherapy programs. This study discusses the features of exosomal ncRNAs in HCC and how the activation of the exosomes redefines the tumor's immunosuppressive microenvironment, hence facilitating the advancement of HCC. Furthermore, we also explored the potential of exosomal ncRNAs as a viable biological target or natural vehicle for HCC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Huang
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macao PR China; Department of Liver Disease, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China; Department of Liver Disease, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Xin Zhong
- Department of Liver Disease, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China; Department of Liver Disease, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Jing Li
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macao PR China; Department of Liver Disease, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China; Department of Liver Disease, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Rui Hu
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macao PR China; Department of Liver Disease, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China; Department of Liver Disease, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Jinyu Yi
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macao PR China; Department of Liver Disease, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China; Department of Liver Disease, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Jialing Sun
- Department of Liver Disease, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China; Department of Liver Disease, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Youhua Xu
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macao PR China.
| | - Xiaozhou Zhou
- Department of Liver Disease, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China; Department of Liver Disease, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, PR China.
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14
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Tian L, Lu J, Ng IOL. Extracellular vesicles and cancer stemness in hepatocellular carcinoma - is there a link? Front Immunol 2024; 15:1368898. [PMID: 38476233 PMCID: PMC10927723 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1368898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a highly aggressive malignancy, with high recurrence rates and notorious resistance to conventional chemotherapy. Cancer stemness refers to the stem-cell-like phenotype of cancer cells and has been recognized to play important roles in different aspects of hepatocarcinogenesis. Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) are small membranous particles secreted by cells that can transfer bioactive molecules, such as nucleic acids, proteins, lipids, and metabolites, to neighboring or distant cells. Recent studies have highlighted the role of sEVs in modulating different aspects of the cancer stemness properties of HCC. Furthermore, sEVs derived from diverse cellular sources, such as cancer cells, stromal cells, and immune cells, contribute to the maintenance of the cancer stemness phenotype in HCC. Through cargo transfer, specific signaling pathways are activated within the recipient cells, thus promoting the stemness properties. Additionally, sEVs can govern the secretion of growth factors from non-cancer cells to further maintain their stemness features. Clinically, plasma sEVs may hold promise as potential biomarkers for HCC diagnosis and treatment prediction. Understanding the underlying mechanisms by which sEVs promote cancer stemness in HCC is crucial, as targeting sEV-mediated communication may offer novel strategies in treatment and improve patient outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Tian
- Department of Pathology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- State Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Pathology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jingyi Lu
- Department of Pathology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- State Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Irene Oi-Lin Ng
- Department of Pathology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- State Key Laboratory of Liver Research, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Pathology, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
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15
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Cao L, Ouyang H. Intercellular crosstalk between cancer cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts via exosomes in gastrointestinal tumors. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1374742. [PMID: 38463229 PMCID: PMC10920350 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1374742] [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: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal (GI) tumors are a significant global health threat, with high rates of morbidity and mortality. Exosomes contain various biologically active molecules like nucleic acids, proteins, and lipids and can serve as messengers for intercellular communication. They play critical roles in the exchange of information between tumor cells and the tumor microenvironment (TME). The TME consists of mesenchymal cells and components of the extracellular matrix (ECM), with fibroblasts being the most abundant cell type in the tumor mesenchyme. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are derived from normal fibroblasts and mesenchymal stem cells that are activated in the TME. CAFs can secrete exosomes to modulate cell proliferation, invasion, migration, drug resistance, and other biological processes in tumors. Additionally, tumor cells can manipulate the function and behavior of fibroblasts through direct cell-cell interactions. This review provides a summary of the intercellular crosstalk between GI tumor cells and CAFs through exosomes, along with potential underlying mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Longyang Cao
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Peoples' Hospital of Hangzhou Linan District, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hong Ouyang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Peoples' Hospital of Hangzhou Linan District, Hangzhou, China
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16
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Kumar MA, Baba SK, Sadida HQ, Marzooqi SA, Jerobin J, Altemani FH, Algehainy N, Alanazi MA, Abou-Samra AB, Kumar R, Al-Shabeeb Akil AS, Macha MA, Mir R, Bhat AA. Extracellular vesicles as tools and targets in therapy for diseases. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:27. [PMID: 38311623 PMCID: PMC10838959 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01735-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are nano-sized, membranous structures secreted into the extracellular space. They exhibit diverse sizes, contents, and surface markers and are ubiquitously released from cells under normal and pathological conditions. Human serum is a rich source of these EVs, though their isolation from serum proteins and non-EV lipid particles poses challenges. These vesicles transport various cellular components such as proteins, mRNAs, miRNAs, DNA, and lipids across distances, influencing numerous physiological and pathological events, including those within the tumor microenvironment (TME). Their pivotal roles in cellular communication make EVs promising candidates for therapeutic agents, drug delivery systems, and disease biomarkers. Especially in cancer diagnostics, EV detection can pave the way for early identification and offers potential as diagnostic biomarkers. Moreover, various EV subtypes are emerging as targeted drug delivery tools, highlighting their potential clinical significance. The need for non-invasive biomarkers to monitor biological processes for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes remains unfulfilled. Tapping into the unique composition of EVs could unlock advanced diagnostic and therapeutic avenues in the future. In this review, we discuss in detail the roles of EVs across various conditions, including cancers (encompassing head and neck, lung, gastric, breast, and hepatocellular carcinoma), neurodegenerative disorders, diabetes, viral infections, autoimmune and renal diseases, emphasizing the potential advancements in molecular diagnostics and drug delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mudasir A Kumar
- Watson-Crick Centre for Molecular Medicine, Islamic University of Science and Technology, Awantipora, Kashmir, 192122, India
| | - Sadaf K Baba
- Watson-Crick Centre for Molecular Medicine, Islamic University of Science and Technology, Awantipora, Kashmir, 192122, India
| | - Hana Q Sadida
- Department of Human Genetics-Precision Medicine in Diabetes, Obesity and Cancer Program, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
| | - Sara Al Marzooqi
- Department of Human Genetics-Precision Medicine in Diabetes, Obesity and Cancer Program, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
| | - Jayakumar Jerobin
- Qatar Metabolic Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Faisal H Altemani
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Prince Fahad Bin Sultan Chair for Biomedical Research, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Tabuk, Tabuk, Saudi Arabia
| | - Naseh Algehainy
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Prince Fahad Bin Sultan Chair for Biomedical Research, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Tabuk, Tabuk, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammad A Alanazi
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Prince Fahad Bin Sultan Chair for Biomedical Research, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Tabuk, Tabuk, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdul-Badi Abou-Samra
- Qatar Metabolic Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Rakesh Kumar
- School of Biotechnology, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University, Katra, India
| | - Ammira S Al-Shabeeb Akil
- Department of Human Genetics-Precision Medicine in Diabetes, Obesity and Cancer Program, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
| | - Muzafar A Macha
- Watson-Crick Centre for Molecular Medicine, Islamic University of Science and Technology, Awantipora, Kashmir, 192122, India
| | - Rashid Mir
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Prince Fahad Bin Sultan Chair for Biomedical Research, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Tabuk, Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Ajaz A Bhat
- Department of Human Genetics-Precision Medicine in Diabetes, Obesity and Cancer Program, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar.
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17
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Xu N, Wu J, Wang W, Sun S, Sun M, Bian Y, Zhang H, Liu S, Yu G. Anti-tumor therapy of glycyrrhetinic acid targeted liposome co-delivery of doxorubicin and berberine for hepatocellular carcinoma. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2024:10.1007/s13346-023-01512-7. [PMID: 38236508 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-023-01512-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
During the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), hepatic stellate cells undergo activation and transform into cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) due to the influence of tumor cells. The interaction between CAFs and tumor cells can compromise the effectiveness of chemotherapy drugs and promote tumor proliferation, invasion, and metastasis. This study explores the potential of glycyrrhetinic acid (GA)-modified liposomes (lip-GA) as a strategy for co-delivery of berberine (Ber) and doxorubicin (Dox) to treat HCC. The characterizations of liposomes, including particle size, zeta potential, polydispersity index, stability and in vitro drug release, were investigated. The study evaluated the anti-proliferation and anti-migration effects of Dox&Ber@lip-GA on the Huh-7 + LX-2 cell model were through MTT and wound-healing assays. Additionally, the in vivo drug distribution and anti-tumor efficacy were investigated using the H22 + NIH-3T3-bearing mouse model. The results indicated that Dox&Ber@lip-GA exhibited a nanoscale particle size, accumulated specifically in the tumor region, and was efficiently taken up by tumor cells. Compared to other groups, Dox&Ber@lip-GA demonstrated higher cytotoxicity and lower migration rates. Additionally, it significantly reduced the deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) and inhibited tumor angiogenesis, thereby suppressing tumor growth. In conclusion, Dox&Ber@lip-GA exhibited superior anti-tumor effects both in vitro and in vivo, highlighting its potential as an effective therapeutic strategy for combating HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Xu
- School of Clinical Medicine, Weifang Medicine University, Weifang, China
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical College: Weifang People's Hospital, Weifang, China
| | - Jingliang Wu
- School of Nursing, Weifang University of Science and Technology, Weifang, China.
| | - Weihao Wang
- School of Clinical Medicine, Weifang Medicine University, Weifang, China
| | - Shujie Sun
- School of Nursing, Weifang University of Science and Technology, Weifang, China
| | - Mengmeng Sun
- School of Clinical Medicine, Weifang Medicine University, Weifang, China
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical College: Weifang People's Hospital, Weifang, China
| | - Yandong Bian
- School of Clinical Medicine, Weifang Medicine University, Weifang, China
| | - Huien Zhang
- School of Clinical Medicine, Weifang Medicine University, Weifang, China
| | - Shuzhen Liu
- School of Clinical Medicine, Weifang Medicine University, Weifang, China
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical College: Weifang People's Hospital, Weifang, China
| | - Guohua Yu
- School of Clinical Medicine, Weifang Medicine University, Weifang, China.
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Weifang Medical College: Weifang People's Hospital, Weifang, China.
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18
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Timofeeva AV, Fedorov IS, Suhova YV, Tarasova AM, Ezhova LS, Zabelina TM, Vasilchenko ON, Ivanets TY, Sukhikh GT. Diagnostic Role of Cell-Free miRNAs in Identifying Placenta Accreta Spectrum during First-Trimester Screening. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:871. [PMID: 38255950 PMCID: PMC10815502 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25020871] [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: 12/09/2023] [Revised: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) is a severe complication of pregnancy associated with excessive invasion of cytotrophoblast cells at the sites of the endometrial-myometrial interface and the myometrium itself in cases of adherent (creta) and invasive (increta and percreta) forms, respectively. This leads to a high risk of massive blood loss, maternal hysterectomy, and preterm birth. Despite advancements in ultrasound protocols and found associations of alpha-fetoprotein, PAPP-A, hCG, PLGF, sFlt-1, IL-8, and IL-33 peripheral blood levels with PAS, there is a high need for an additional non-invasive test to improve the diagnostic accuracy and to select the real PAS from the suspected ones in the first-trimester screening. miRNA signatures of placental tissue, myometrium, and blood plasma from women with PAS in the third trimester of pregnancy, as well as miRNA profiles in exosomes from the blood serum of women in the first trimester with physiologically progressing pregnancy, complicated by PAS or pre-eclampsia, were obtained using deep sequencing. Two logistic regression models were constructed, both featuring statistically significant parameters related to the levels of miR-26a-5p, miR-17-5p, and miR-101-3p, quantified by real-time PCR in native blood serum. These models demonstrated 100% sensitivity in detecting PAS during the first pregnancy screening. These miRNAs were identified as specific markers for PAS, showing significant differences in their blood serum levels during the first trimester in the PAS group compared to those in physiological pregnancies, early- or late-onset pre-eclampsia groups. Furthermore, these miRNAs exhibited differential expression in the PAS placenta and/or myometrium in the third trimester and, according to data from the literature, control angiogenesis. Significant correlations were found between extracellular hsa-miR-101-3p and nuchal translucency thickness, hsa-miR-17-5p and uterine artery pulsatility index, and hsa-miR-26a-5p and hsa-miR-17-5p with PLGF. The developed test system for early non-invasive PAS diagnosis based on the blood serum level of extracellular miR-26a-5p, miR-17-5p, and miR-101-3p can serve as an auxiliary method for first-trimester screening of pregnant women, subject to validation with independent test samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelika V. Timofeeva
- Kulakov National Medical Research Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology, Ministry of Health of Russia, Ac. Oparina 4, 117997 Moscow, Russia; (I.S.F.); (Y.V.S.); (A.M.T.); (L.S.E.); (T.M.Z.); (O.N.V.); (T.Y.I.); (G.T.S.)
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19
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Zeng F, Li D, Kang X, Wu Q, Song M, Ou Z, Yang Z, Yang J, Luo L. MALAT1 promotes FOXA1 degradation by competitively binding to miR-216a-5p and enhancing neuroendocrine differentiation in prostate cancer. Transl Oncol 2024; 39:101807. [PMID: 38235618 PMCID: PMC10628887 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2023.101807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Prostate cancer (PC) is a leading cause of cancer-related death in males worldwide. Neuroendocrine differentiation (NED) is a feature of PC that often goes undetected and is associated with poor patient outcomes. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), microRNAs (miRNAs/miRs), and messenger RNAs (mRNAs) play important roles in the development and progression of PC. METHODS In this study, we used transcriptome sequencing and bioinformatics analysis to identify key regulators of NED in PC. Specifically, we examined the expression of PC-related lncRNAs, miRNAs, and mRNAs in PC cells and correlated these findings with NED phenotypes. RESULTS Our data revealed that metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1) and zinc finger protein 91 (ZFP91) were upregulated in PC, while miR-216a-5p was down-regulated. Ectopic expression of MALAT1 induced NED and promoted malignant phenotypes of PC cells. Furthermore, we found that MALAT1 competitively bound to miR-216a-5p, upregulated ZFP91, and promoted the degradation of forkhead box A1 (FOXA1), a key gene involved in NED of PC. CONCLUSION Taken together, these results suggest that MALAT1 plays an oncogenic role in NED and metastasis of PC via the miR-216a-5p/ZFP91/FOXA1 pathway. Our study highlights the potential of targeting this pathway as a novel therapeutic strategy for PC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanchang Zeng
- Department of Urology, Hainan General Hospital (Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University), Haikou 570311, China
| | - Daoyuan Li
- Department of Urology, Hainan General Hospital (Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University), Haikou 570311, China
| | - Xinli Kang
- Department of Urology, Hainan General Hospital (Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University), Haikou 570311, China
| | - Qinghui Wu
- Department of Urology, Hainan General Hospital (Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University), Haikou 570311, China
| | - Mi Song
- Department of Urology, Hainan General Hospital (Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University), Haikou 570311, China
| | - Zhewen Ou
- Department of Urology, Hainan General Hospital (Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University), Haikou 570311, China
| | - Zuobing Yang
- Department of Urology, Hainan General Hospital (Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University), Haikou 570311, China
| | - Jing Yang
- Department of Urology, Hainan General Hospital (Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University), Haikou 570311, China
| | - Liumei Luo
- Department of Scientific Research, Hainan General Hospital (Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University), No. 19, Xiuhua Road, Xiuying District, Haikou, Hainan 570311, China.
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20
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Chen C, Wan M, Peng X, Zhang Q, Liu Y. GPR37-centered ceRNA network contributes to metastatic potential in lung adenocarcinoma: Evidence from high-throughput sequencing. Transl Oncol 2024; 39:101819. [PMID: 37979558 PMCID: PMC10656721 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2023.101819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA)-based profiling has been extensively studied in carcinogenesis of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD), while it has seldomly been applied to investigate the metastatic potential of LUAD. This study aims to examine the function and in-depth mechanism of GPR37-centered ceRNA network in LUAD. Cancer tissues and adjacent normal tissues from three LUAD patients were collected for high-throughput sequencing to screen for differentially expressed genes. A PPI network was constructed to screen the key gene GPR37, followed by analysis for the functions and pathways. Clinical data from LUAD patients were integrated with gene expression data in TCGA-LUAD dataset for survival analysis. Based on the miRNAs targeting_GPR37 and lncRNAs targeting_miRNAs, a lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA ceRNA network was established. GPR37 was up-regulated in LUAD tissue samples, and it may be a key gene involved in LUAD progression. GPR37 in LUAD was mainly enriched in the mitosis-related pathways. High GPR37 expression corresponded to poor prognosis in LUAD patients. Meanwhile, GPR37 could be used as an independent factor to predict the prognosis in LUAD patients. LncRNA DLEU1, up-regulated in LUAD tissue samples, may competitively bind to miR-4458 to up-regulate the expression of the miR-4458 downstream target GPR37. DLEU1 was associated with poor prognosis and tumor metastasis in LUAD patients. Altogether, our findings reveal a novel ceRNA network of DLEU1/miR-4458/GPR37 in LUAD growth and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuanhui Chen
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, PR China
| | - Mengzhi Wan
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, PR China
| | - Xiong Peng
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, PR China
| | - Qing Zhang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, PR China
| | - Yu Liu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, PR China.
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Wang H, Zhou Z, Lin W, Qian Y, He S, Wang J. MicroRNA-21 promotes head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) induced transition of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells to cancer-associated fibroblasts. BMC Cancer 2023; 23:1135. [PMID: 37993769 PMCID: PMC10666302 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-023-11630-7] [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: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most patients diagnosed with head and neck tumor will present with locally advanced disease, requiring multimodality therapy. Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (BMSCs) respond to a variety of tumor cell-derived signals, such as inflammatory cytokines and growth factors. As a result, the inflammatory tumor microenvironment may lead to the recruitment of BMSCs. Whether BMSCs in the tumor environment are more likely to promote tumor growth or tumor suppression is still controversial. We aimed to determine whether microRNA-21(miR-21) would play a vital role in HNSCC induced transition of human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) to cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). METHODS In this study, we used electron microscope to observed exosomes collected from human tissue and two cell lines. We co-cultured hBMSCs with exosomes from FaDu and Cal-27 cells with miR-21 inhibited or not, then assessed cell cycle changes of hBMSCs with flow cytometry and determined expression level of α-SMA and FAP through qRT-PCR and Western blot. RESULTS We observed an up-regulation of miR-21 expression in HNSCC tissue and FaDu and Cal-27 cells. Importantly, the exosomes derived from both cells induced CAFs-like characteristics in hBMSCs. while treatment with a miR-21 inhibitor effectively suppressed the transition of hBMSCs to CAFs and reversed the changes in the cell cycle distribution. This suggests that miR-21 plays a crucial role in facilitating the transition of hBMSCs to CAFs and modulating the cell cycle dynamics. CONCLUSION Our findings highlight the significance of miR-21 in mediating the communication between HNSCC cells and hBMSCs through exosomes, leading to the promotion of CAFs-like features and alterations in the cell cycle of hBMSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Wang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Ruijin Hospital Lu Wan Branch, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200020, China
| | - Zhengyu Zhou
- Department of Laboratory Diagnostics, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Wenchao Lin
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Ruijin Hospital Lu Wan Branch, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200020, China
| | - Yechun Qian
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Ruijin Hospital Lu Wan Branch, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200020, China
| | - Shifang He
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Ruijin Hospital Lu Wan Branch, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200020, China.
| | - Jun Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology & Head and Neck Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200020, China.
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22
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Al-Bzour NN, Al-Bzour AN, Ababneh OE, Al-Jezawi MM, Saeed A, Saeed A. Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts in Gastrointestinal Cancers: Unveiling Their Dynamic Roles in the Tumor Microenvironment. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16505. [PMID: 38003695 PMCID: PMC10671196 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal cancers are highly aggressive malignancies with significant mortality rates. Recent research emphasizes the critical role of the tumor microenvironment (TME) in these cancers, which includes cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), a key component of the TME that have diverse origins, including fibroblasts, mesenchymal stem cells, and endothelial cells. Several markers, such as α-SMA and FAP, have been identified to label CAFs, and some specific markers may serve as potential therapeutic targets. In this review article, we summarize the literature on the multifaceted role of CAFs in tumor progression, including their effects on angiogenesis, immune suppression, invasion, and metastasis. In addition, we highlight the use of single-cell transcriptomics to understand CAF heterogeneity and their interactions within the TME. Moreover, we discuss the dynamic interplay between CAFs and the immune system, which contributes to immunosuppression in the TME, and the potential for CAF-targeted therapies and combination approaches with immunotherapy to improve cancer treatment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noor N. Al-Bzour
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology & Oncology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC), Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA; (N.N.A.-B.); (A.N.A.-B.)
| | - Ayah N. Al-Bzour
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology & Oncology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC), Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA; (N.N.A.-B.); (A.N.A.-B.)
| | - Obada E. Ababneh
- Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid 22110, Jordan; (O.E.A.); (M.M.A.-J.)
| | - Moayad M. Al-Jezawi
- Faculty of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid 22110, Jordan; (O.E.A.); (M.M.A.-J.)
| | - Azhar Saeed
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Vermont Medical Center, Burlington, VT 05401, USA;
| | - Anwaar Saeed
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology & Oncology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC), Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA; (N.N.A.-B.); (A.N.A.-B.)
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA
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Wang HC, Yin WX, Jiang M, Han JY, Kuai XW, Sun R, Sun YF, Ji JL. Function and biomedical implications of exosomal microRNAs delivered by parenchymal and nonparenchymal cells in hepatocellular carcinoma. World J Gastroenterol 2023; 29:5435-5451. [PMID: 37900996 PMCID: PMC10600808 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v29.i39.5435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Small extracellular vesicles (exosomes) are important components of the tumor microenvironment. They are small membrane-bound vesicles derived from almost all cell types and play an important role in intercellular communication. Exosomes transmit biological molecules obtained from parent cells, such as proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids, and are involved in cancer development. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), the most abundant contents in exosomes, are selectively packaged into exosomes to carry out their biological functions. Recent studies have revealed that exosome-delivered miRNAs play crucial roles in the tumorigenesis, progression, and drug resistance of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In addition, exosomes have great industrial prospects in the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of patients with HCC. This review summarized the composition and function of exosomal miRNAs of different cell origins in HCC and highlighted the association between exosomal miRNAs from stromal cells and immune cells in the tumor microenvironment and the progression of HCC. Finally, we described the potential applicability of exosomal miRNAs derived from mesenchymal stem cells in the treatment of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai-Chen Wang
- Department of Pathology, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Wen-Xuan Yin
- Department of Pathology, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Meng Jiang
- Department of Pathology, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Microenvironment and Translational Cancer Research, Science and Technology Bureau of Nantong City, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Jia-Yi Han
- Department of Pathology, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Microenvironment and Translational Cancer Research, Science and Technology Bureau of Nantong City, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xing-Wang Kuai
- Department of Pathology, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Microenvironment and Translational Cancer Research, Science and Technology Bureau of Nantong City, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Rui Sun
- Department of Pathology, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Microenvironment and Translational Cancer Research, Science and Technology Bureau of Nantong City, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yu-Feng Sun
- Department of Pathology, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Microenvironment and Translational Cancer Research, Science and Technology Bureau of Nantong City, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Ju-Ling Ji
- Department of Pathology, Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Microenvironment and Translational Cancer Research, Science and Technology Bureau of Nantong City, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu Province, China
- Department of Pathology, The Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu Province, China
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Rajendran P, Sekar R, Zahra HA, Jayaraman S, Rajagopal P, Abdallah BM, Ali EM, Abdelsalam SA, Veeraraghavan V. Salivaomics to decode non-coding RNAs in oral cancer. A narrative review. Noncoding RNA Res 2023; 8:376-384. [PMID: 37250455 PMCID: PMC10220469 DOI: 10.1016/j.ncrna.2023.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Oral cancer is the most debilitating disease which affects the orderly life of a human. With so much advancement in research and technology, the average life expectancy of an individual with oral cancer appears to be about 5 years. The changing trend in incidence of oral cancer among young individuals and women without tobacco habits are ascending. Non habit related oral cancer are taking centre stage and multiple factors which induce complex biology are associated in such scenarios. To decipher the aetiology and to understand the process, these cancerous conditions are to be studied at molecular level. Saliva, the most non-invasively obtained body fluid are assessed for biomarkers exclusively in liquid biopsy. This fluid gives a huge platform to study number of molecules associated with oral cancer. Non coding RNAs are transcripts with no protein coding function. They are gaining more importance in recent times. Long noncoding RNA, microRNA are major types of noncoding transcriptome that influences in progression of oral cancer. They seem to play an important role in health and disease. Apart from these, circulating tumour cells, exosomes, extracellular vesicles, antigens and other proteins can be studied from saliva. This review is aimed to update the knowledge on current biomarkers in saliva associated with oral cancer and their epigenetic role in disease progression as well recent advances in detecting these markers to identify the stage of the disease, which will help in deciding the treatment protocol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peramaiyan Rajendran
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, 31982, Saudi Arabia
- Centre of Molecular Medicine and Diagnostics (COMManD), Department of Biochemistry, Saveetha Dental College & Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, 600 077, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Ramya Sekar
- Central Research Laboratory, Meenakshi Academy of Higher Education and Research, West K.K. Nagar, Chennai, 600 078, India
- Centre of Molecular Medicine and Diagnostics (COMManD), Department of Biochemistry, Saveetha Dental College & Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, 600 077, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Hamad Abu Zahra
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, 31982, Saudi Arabia
| | - Selvaraj Jayaraman
- Centre of Molecular Medicine and Diagnostics (COMManD), Department of Biochemistry, Saveetha Dental College & Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, 600 077, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Ponnulakshmi Rajagopal
- Central Research Laboratory, Meenakshi Academy of Higher Education and Research, West K.K. Nagar, Chennai, 600 078, India
| | - Basem M. Abdallah
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, 31982, Saudi Arabia
| | - Enas M. Ali
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, 31982, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Cairo, 12613, Egypt
| | - Salaheldin Abdelraouf Abdelsalam
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, 31982, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Assiut University, Assiut, 71515, Egypt
| | - Vishnupriya Veeraraghavan
- Centre of Molecular Medicine and Diagnostics (COMManD), Department of Biochemistry, Saveetha Dental College & Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, 600 077, Tamil Nadu, India
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25
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Zhao S, Li B, Gao H, Zhang Y. MiR-320a Acts as a Tumor Suppressor in Somatotroph Pituitary Neuroendocrine Tumors by Targeting BCAT1. Neuroendocrinology 2023; 114:14-24. [PMID: 37591221 DOI: 10.1159/000533549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Aberrant miR-320a has been reported to be involved in the tumorigenesis of several cancers. In our previous study, we identified the low expression of circulating miR-320a in patients with somatotroph pituitary neuroendocrine tumor (PitNET); however, the role of miR-320a in somatotroph PitNET proliferation is still unclear. METHODS Cell viability and colony formation assays were used to detect the effect of miR-320a and BCAT1 on GH3 cells. TargetScan was used to identify the target genes of miR-320a. Dual-luciferase reporter gene assay was used to explore the relation between miR-320a and BCAT1. Transcriptome and proteome analyses were performed between somatotroph PitNETs and healthy controls. The expression level of miR-320a in somatotroph PitNETs were detected by RT-qPCR and Western blot. RESULTS miR-320a mimics inhibit cell proliferation, while miR-320a inhibitors promote cell proliferation in GH3 cells. An overlap analysis using a Venn diagram revealed that BCAT1 is the only target gene of miR-320a overexpressed in somatotroph PitNETs compared to healthy controls, as revealed by both microarray and proteomics results. A dual-luciferase reporter gene assay showed that miR-320a may bind to the BCAT1-3'UTR. The transfection of miR-320a mimics downregulated the expression and miR-320a inhibitors and upregulated the expression of BCAT1 in GH3 cells. The interference of BCAT1 expression in GH3 cells downregulated cell proliferation and growth. Pan-cancer analyses demonstrated that high BCAT1 expression often indicates a poor prognosis. CONCLUSION Our findings illustrate that miR-320a may function as a tumor suppressor and BCAT1 may promote tumor progression. miR-320a may inhibit the growth of somatotroph PitNETs by targeting BCAT1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sida Zhao
- Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Bin Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Hua Gao
- Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yazhuo Zhang
- Beijing Neurosurgical Institute, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders Brain Tumor Center, Beijing, China
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26
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Sun B, Lei X, Cao M, Li Y, Yang LY. Hepatocellular carcinoma cells remodel the pro-metastatic tumour microenvironment through recruitment and activation of fibroblasts via paracrine Egfl7 signaling. Cell Commun Signal 2023; 21:180. [PMID: 37480091 PMCID: PMC10362567 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01200-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The tumour microenvironment consists of a complex and dynamic milieu of cancer cells, including tumour-associated stromal cells (leukocytes, fibroblasts, vascular cells, etc.) and their extracellular products. During invasion and metastasis, cancer cells actively remodel the tumour microenvironment and alterations of microenvironment, particularly cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), can promote tumour progression. However, the underlying mechanisms of the CAF formation and their metastasis-promoting functions remain unclear. METHODS Primary liver fibroblasts and CAFs were isolated and characterized. CAFs in clinical samples were identified by immunohistochemical staining and the clinical significance of CAFs was also analysed in two independent cohorts. A transwell coculture system was used to confirm the role of HCC cells in CAF recruitment and activation. qRT-PCR, western blotting and ELISA were used to screen paracrine cytokines. The role and mechanism of Egfl7 in CAFs were explored via an in vitro coculture system and an in vivo mouse orthotopic transplantation model. RESULTS We showed that CAFs in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are characterized by the expression of α-SMA and that HCC cells can recruit liver fibroblasts (LFs) and activate them to promote their transformation into CAFs. High α-SMA expression, indicating high CAF infiltration, was correlated with malignant characteristics. It was also an independent risk factor for HCC survival and could predict a poor prognosis in HCC patients. Then, we demonstrated that EGF-like domain multiple 7 (Egfl7) was preferentially secreted by HCC cells, and exhibited high potential to recruit and activate LFs into the CAF phenotype. The ability of Egfl7 to modulate LFs relies upon increased phosphorylation of FAK and AKT via the receptor ανβ3 integrin. Strikingly, CAFs activated by paracrine Egfl7 could further remodel the tumour microenvironment by depositing fibrils and collagen and in turn facilitate HCC cell proliferation, invasion and metastasis. CONCLUSION Our data highlighted a novel role of Egfl7 in remodelling the tumour microenvironment: it recruits LFs and activates them to promote their transformation into CAFs via the ανβ3 integrin signaling pathway, which further promotes HCC progression and contributes to poor clinical outcomes in HCC patients. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Sun
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital/The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410005, Hunan, China
| | - Xiong Lei
- Liver Cancer Laboratory, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Xiangya Road 87, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Momo Cao
- Liver Cancer Laboratory, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Xiangya Road 87, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Yiming Li
- Liver Cancer Laboratory, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Xiangya Road 87, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Lian-Yue Yang
- Liver Cancer Laboratory, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Xiangya Road 87, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
- Department of General Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
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Kotsari M, Dimopoulou V, Koskinas J, Armakolas A. Immune System and Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC): New Insights into HCC Progression. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11471. [PMID: 37511228 PMCID: PMC10380581 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
According to the WHO's recently released worldwide cancer data for 2020, liver cancer ranks sixth in morbidity and third in mortality among all malignancies. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common kind of liver cancer, accounts approximately for 80% of all primary liver malignancies and is one of the leading causes of death globally. The intractable tumor microenvironment plays an important role in the development and progression of HCC and is one of three major unresolved issues in clinical practice (cancer recurrence, fatal metastasis, and the refractory tumor microenvironment). Despite significant advances, improved molecular and cellular characterization of the tumor microenvironment is still required since it plays an important role in the genesis and progression of HCC. The purpose of this review is to present an overview of the HCC immune microenvironment, distinct cellular constituents, current therapies, and potential immunotherapy methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Kotsari
- Physiology Laboratory, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Vassiliki Dimopoulou
- Physiology Laboratory, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - John Koskinas
- B' Department of Medicine, Hippokration Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Athanasios Armakolas
- Physiology Laboratory, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
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28
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Han S, Xue L, Wei Y, Yong T, Jia W, Qi Y, Luo Y, Liang J, Wen J, Bie N, Liang H, Liu Q, Ding Z, Yang X, Gan L, Huang Z, Chen X, Zhang B. Bone Lesion-Derived Extracellular Vesicles Fuel Prometastatic Cascades in Hepatocellular Carcinoma by Transferring ALKBH5-Targeting miR-3190-5p. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2207080. [PMID: 37096833 PMCID: PMC10265039 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202207080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Bone is the second leading metastatic site for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Patients with HCC and bone metastasis suffer poor quality of life and reduced survival time. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are widely involved in HCC formation and metastasis. However, the communication between primary HCC and bone lesions mediated by EVs remains unclear and the possible effect of bone metastasis on the progression of HCC remains largely unknown. Here, bone-metastasized HCC-derived EVs (BM-EVs) are found to localize to orthotropic HCC cells and promote HCC progression. Mechanistically, miR-3190-5p (miR-3190) is upregulated in intracellular HCC cells isolated from bone lesions as well as in their derived EVs. miR-3190 in BM-EVs is transferred into orthotopic tumor cells and enhances their metastatic capacity by downregulating AlkB homolog 5 (ALKBH5) expression. Decreased level of ALKBH5 exacerbates the prometastatic characteristics of HCC by modulating gene expression in N6-methyladenosine-dependent and -independent ways. Finally, antagomir-miR-3190-loaded liposomes with HCC affinity successfully suppress HCC progression in mice treated with BM-EVs. These findings reveal that BM-EVs initiate prometastatic cascades in orthotopic HCC by transferring ALKBH5-targeting miR-3190 and miR-3190 is serving as a promising therapeutic target for inhibiting the progression of HCC in patients with bone metastasis.
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Xu L, Cheng J, Li Z, Wen X, Sun Y, Xia M, Leng J. The intervention effect of Aitongxiao prescription on primary liver cancer rats was evaluated based on high-throughput miRNA sequencing and bioinformatics analysis. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1050069. [PMID: 37313461 PMCID: PMC10259654 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1050069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer is a common malignant tumor known for its difficult treatment and poor prognosis. As a traditional Chinese medicine prescription, Aitongxiao prescription (ATXP) has been used in clinical treatment of primary liver cancer (PLC) for more than ten years, and its therapeutic effect is obvious and has been verified over time. However, the mechanism of ATXP in treating PLC has not been fully elucidated. This study aimed to detect the liver-protective effect of ATXP on a PLC rat model and explore its potential mechanism from the perspective of plasma extracellular vesicle miRNAs. Fifty SPF male SD rats were randomly selected, with six rats as the control group, and the remaining rats were injected with DEN to establish a primary liver cancer model. The model rats were randomly divided into the model group and the ATXP group. After 4 weeks of intervention, the liver-protective effect of ATXP was evaluated using plasma biochemical indicators and histopathological methods. Plasma extracellular vesicles were isolated and extracted, and identified by transmission electron microscopy, nanoparticle tracking analysis, and western blot. Significant differentially expressed miRNAs in extracellular vesicles were screened by Illumina sequencing to explore the therapeutic targets of ATXP and conduct functional analysis. The results showed that ATXP significantly reduced plasma liver function in PLC rats and alleviated liver pathological damage. In addition, plasma extracellular vesicles were isolated and identified. According to the results of GO and KEGG analysis, they were related to multiple biological processes and covered multiple signaling pathways (PI3K-Akt and MAPK signaling pathways, etc.). The interaction between miR-199a-3p and MAP3K4 was determined by bioinformatics methods and dual-luciferase reporter gene detection, confirming that MAP3K4 is the target gene of miR-199a-3p. In conclusion, ATXP protects the liver from DEN-induced PLC, which may be related to the regulation of plasma extracellular vesicle miR-199a-3p. This study further reveals the mechanism of ATXP in treating liver cancer and provides a theoretical basis for subsequent research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijing Xu
- Basic Medical College, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
| | - Jinlai Cheng
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhuoxian Li
- Basic Medical College, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
| | - Xiaoyu Wen
- Rehabilitation College, Guilin Life and Health Career Technical College, Guilin, China
| | - Yuhao Sun
- Institute of Microbiology and Genetics, Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Meng Xia
- Basic Medical College, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
| | - Jing Leng
- Basic Medical College, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine for Treating High-Incidence Infectious Diseases with Integrative Medicine, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, China
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30
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Todosenko N, Khlusov I, Yurova K, Khaziakhmatova O, Litvinova L. Signal Pathways and microRNAs in Osteosarcoma Growth and the Dual Role of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Oncogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24108993. [PMID: 37240338 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24108993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The major challenges in Osteosarcoma (OS) therapy are its heterogeneity and drug resistance. The development of new therapeutic approaches to overcome the major growth mechanisms of OS is urgently needed. The search for specific molecular targets and promising innovative approaches in OS therapy, including drug delivery methods, is an urgent problem. Modern regenerative medicine focuses on harnessing the potential of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) because they have low immunogenicity. MSCs are important cells that have received considerable attention in cancer research. Currently, new cell-based methods for using MSCs in medicine are being actively investigated and tested, especially as carriers for chemotherapeutics, nanoparticles, and photosensitizers. However, despite the inexhaustible regenerative potential and known anticancer properties of MSCs, they may trigger the development and progression of bone tumors. A better understanding of the complex cellular and molecular mechanisms of OS pathogenesis is essential to identify novel molecular effectors involved in oncogenesis. The current review focuses on signaling pathways and miRNAs involved in the development of OS and describes the role of MSCs in oncogenesis and their potential for antitumor cell-based therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Todosenko
- Center for Immunology and Cellular Biotechnology, Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University, 236001 Kaliningrad, Russia
| | - Igor Khlusov
- Center for Immunology and Cellular Biotechnology, Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University, 236001 Kaliningrad, Russia
- Laboratory of Cellular and Microfluidic Technologies, Siberian State Medical University, 2, Moskovskii Trakt, 634050 Tomsk, Russia
| | - Kristina Yurova
- Center for Immunology and Cellular Biotechnology, Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University, 236001 Kaliningrad, Russia
| | - Olga Khaziakhmatova
- Center for Immunology and Cellular Biotechnology, Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University, 236001 Kaliningrad, Russia
| | - Larisa Litvinova
- Center for Immunology and Cellular Biotechnology, Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University, 236001 Kaliningrad, Russia
- Laboratory of Cellular and Microfluidic Technologies, Siberian State Medical University, 2, Moskovskii Trakt, 634050 Tomsk, Russia
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Li J, Bao H, Huang Z, Liang Z, Wang M, Lin N, Ni C, Xu Y. Little things with significant impact: miRNAs in hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1191070. [PMID: 37274242 PMCID: PMC10235484 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1191070] [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: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has developed into one of the most lethal, aggressive, and malignant cancers worldwide. Although HCC treatment has improved in recent years, the incidence and lethality of HCC continue to increase yearly. Therefore, an in-depth study of the pathogenesis of HCC and the search for more reliable therapeutic targets are crucial to improving the survival quality of HCC patients. Currently, miRNAs have become one of the hotspots in life science research, which are widely present in living organisms and are non-coding RNAs involved in regulating gene expression. MiRNAs exert their biological roles by suppressing the expression of downstream genes and are engaged in various HCC-related processes, including proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, and metastasis. In addition, the expression status of miRNAs is related to the drug resistance mechanism of HCC, which has important implications for the systemic treatment of HCC. This paper reviews the regulatory role of miRNAs in the pathogenesis of HCC and the clinical applications of miRNAs in HCC in recent years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiehan Li
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Haolin Bao
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Ziyue Huang
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Zixin Liang
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Mei Wang
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Ning Lin
- Key Laboratory of Functional and Clinical Translational Medicine, Fujian Province University, Xiamen Medical College, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Chunjie Ni
- Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Tumor Targeted Nano Diagnostic and Therapeutic Materials, Yancheng Teachers University, Yancheng, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yi Xu
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Functional and Clinical Translational Medicine, Fujian Province University, Xiamen Medical College, Xiamen, Fujian, China
- Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Tumor Targeted Nano Diagnostic and Therapeutic Materials, Yancheng Teachers University, Yancheng, Jiangsu, China
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Key Laboratory of Chemical Genomics, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomarkers and In Vitro Diagnosis Translation of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Cancer (Fujian Medical University), Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Intelligent Pharmacy and Individualized Therapy of Huzhou, Department of Pharmacy, Changxing People’s Hospital, Changxing, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Pathology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
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32
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Aseervatham J. Dynamic Role of Exosome microRNAs in Cancer Cell Signaling and Their Emerging Role as Noninvasive Biomarkers. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:biology12050710. [PMID: 37237523 DOI: 10.3390/biology12050710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Exosomes are extracellular vesicles that originate from endosomes and are released by all cells irrespective of their origin or type. They play an important role in cell communication and can act in an autocrine, endocrine, or paracrine fashion. They are 40-150 nm in diameter and have a similar composition to the cell of origin. An exosome released by a particular cell is unique since it carries information about the state of the cell in pathological conditions such as cancer. miRNAs carried by cancer-derived exosomes play a multifaceted role by taking part in cell proliferation, invasion, metastasis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, angiogenesis, apoptosis, and immune evasion. Depending on the type of miRNA that it carries as its cargo, it can render cells chemo- or radiosensitive or resistant and can also act as a tumor suppressor. Since the composition of exosomes is affected by the cellular state, stress, and changes in the environment, they can be used as diagnostic or prognostic biomarkers. Their unique ability to cross biological barriers makes them an excellent choice as vehicles for drug delivery. Because of their easy availability and stability, they can be used to replace cancer biopsies, which are invasive and expensive. Exosomes can also be used to follow the progression of diseases and monitor treatment strategies. A better understanding of the roles and functions of exosomal miRNA can be used to develop noninvasive, innovative, and novel treatments for cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaya Aseervatham
- Department of Neurology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA
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Koustas E, Trifylli EM, Sarantis P, Papadopoulos N, Papanikolopoulos K, Aloizos G, Damaskos C, Garmpis N, Garmpi A, Matthaios D, Karamouzis MV. An Insight into the Arising Role of MicroRNAs in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Future Diagnostic and Therapeutic Approaches. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24087168. [PMID: 37108330 PMCID: PMC10138911 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) constitutes a frequent highly malignant form of primary liver cancer and is the third cause of death attributable to malignancy. Despite the improvement in the therapeutic strategies with the exploration of novel pharmacological agents, the survival rate for HCC is still low. Shedding light on the multiplex genetic and epigenetic background of HCC, such as on the emerging role of microRNAs, is considered quite promising for the diagnosis and the prediction of this malignancy, as well as for combatting drug resistance. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) constitute small noncoding RNA sequences, which play a key role in the regulation of several signaling and metabolic pathways, as well as of pivotal cellular functions such as autophagy, apoptosis, and cell proliferation. It is also demonstrated that miRNAs are significantly implicated in carcinogenesis, either acting as tumor suppressors or oncomiRs, while aberrations in their expression levels are closely associated with tumor growth and progression, as well as with local invasion and metastatic dissemination. The arising role of miRNAs in HCC is in the spotlight of the current scientific research, aiming at the development of novel therapeutic perspectives. In this review, we will shed light on the emerging role of miRNAs in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evangelos Koustas
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, M. Asias Street, 11527 Athens, Greece
- First Department of Internal Medicine, 417 Army Equity Fund Hospital, 11521 Athens, Greece
| | - Eleni-Myrto Trifylli
- First Department of Internal Medicine, 417 Army Equity Fund Hospital, 11521 Athens, Greece
| | - Panagiotis Sarantis
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, M. Asias Street, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Papadopoulos
- Second Department of Internal Medicine, 401 General Army Hospital of Athens, 11525 Athens, Greece
| | | | - Georgios Aloizos
- First Department of Internal Medicine, 417 Army Equity Fund Hospital, 11521 Athens, Greece
| | - Christos Damaskos
- 'N.S. Christeas' Laboratory of Experimental Surgery and Surgical Research, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
- Renal Transplantation Unit, 'Laiko' General Hospital, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Garmpis
- Second Department of Propaedeutic Surgery, 'Laiko' General Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Anna Garmpi
- First Department of Pathology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | | | - Michalis V Karamouzis
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75, M. Asias Street, 11527 Athens, Greece
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He R, Xu Y, Yu L, Meng N, Wang H, Cui Y, Yam JWP. Extracellular Vesicles Act as Carriers for Cargo Delivery and Regulate Wnt Signaling in the Hepatocellular Carcinoma Tumor Microenvironment. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15072088. [PMID: 37046749 PMCID: PMC10093647 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15072088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
As the primary type of liver cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) causes a large number of deaths every year. Despite extensive research conducted on this disease, the prognosis of HCC remains unclear. Recently, research has largely focused on extracellular vesicles (EVs), and they have been found to participate in various ways in the development of various diseases, including HCC, such as by regulating cell signaling pathways. However, recent studies have reported the mechanisms underlying the regulation of Wnt signaling by EVs in HCC, primarily focusing on the regulation of the canonical pathways. This review summarizes the current literature on the regulation of Wnt signaling by EVs in HCC and their underlying mechanisms. In addition, we also present future research directions in this field. This will deepen the understanding of HCC and provide new ideas for its treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Risheng He
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Yi Xu
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563006, China
- Key Laboratory of Functional and Clinical Translational Medicine, Fujian Province University, Xiamen Medical College, Xiamen 361000, China
- Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Tumor Targeted Nano Diagnostic and Therapeutic Materials, Yancheng Teachers University, Yancheng 224007, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomarkers and In Vitro Diagnosis Translation of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310063, China
- Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Cancer, Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Key Laboratory of Chemical Genomics, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen 518055, China
- Key Laboratory of Intelligent Pharmacy and Individualized Therapy of Huzhou, Department of Pharmacy, Changxing People’s Hospital, Changxing 313000, China
- Department of Pathology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Liang Yu
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Nanfeng Meng
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Hang Wang
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Yunfu Cui
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Judy Wai Ping Yam
- Department of Pathology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
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Wang M, Fu L, Xu Y, Ma S, Zhang X, Zheng L. A comprehensive overview of exosome lncRNAs: Emerging biomarkers and potential therapeutics in gynecological cancers. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1138142. [PMID: 37007117 PMCID: PMC10063919 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1138142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian, endometrial, and cervical cancer are common gynecologic malignancies, and their incidence is increasing year after year, with a younger patient population at risk. An exosome is a tiny “teacup-like” blister that can be secreted by most cells, is highly concentrated and easily enriched in body fluids, and contains a large number of lncRNAs carrying some biological and genetic information that can be stable for a long time and is not affected by ribonuclease catalytic activity. As a cell communication tool, exosome lncRNA has the advantages of high efficiency and high targeting. Changes in serum exosome lncRNA expression in cancer patients can accurately reflect the malignant biological behavior of cancer cells. Exosome lncRNA has been shown in studies to have broad application prospects in cancer diagnosis, monitoring cancer recurrence or progression, cancer treatment, and prognosis. The purpose of this paper is to provide a reference for clinical research on the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of gynecologic malignant tumors by reviewing the role of exosome lncRNA in gynecologic cancers and related molecular mechanisms.
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Lee Y, Ni J, Beretov J, Wasinger VC, Graham P, Li Y. Recent advances of small extracellular vesicle biomarkers in breast cancer diagnosis and prognosis. Mol Cancer 2023; 22:33. [PMID: 36797736 PMCID: PMC9933347 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-023-01741-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Current clinical tools for breast cancer (BC) diagnosis are insufficient but liquid biopsy of different bodily fluids has recently emerged as a minimally invasive strategy that provides a real-time snapshot of tumour biomarkers for early diagnosis, active surveillance of progression, and post-treatment recurrence. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are nano-sized membranous structures 50-1000 nm in diameter that are released by cells into biological fluids. EVs contain proteins, nucleic acids, and lipids which play pivotal roles in tumourigenesis and metastasis through cell-to-cell communication. Proteins and miRNAs from small EVs (sEV), which range in size from 50-150 nm, are being investigated as a potential source for novel BC biomarkers using mass spectrometry-based proteomics and next-generation sequencing. This review covers recent developments in sEV isolation and single sEV analysis technologies and summarises the sEV protein and miRNA biomarkers identified for BC diagnosis, prognosis, and chemoresistance. The limitations of current sEV biomarker research are discussed along with future perspective applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujin Lee
- grid.1005.40000 0004 4902 0432St. George and Sutherland Clinical Campuses, School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW 2052 Australia ,grid.416398.10000 0004 0417 5393Cancer Care Centre, St. George Hospital, Kogarah, NSW 2217 Australia
| | - Jie Ni
- grid.1005.40000 0004 4902 0432St. George and Sutherland Clinical Campuses, School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW 2052 Australia ,grid.416398.10000 0004 0417 5393Cancer Care Centre, St. George Hospital, Kogarah, NSW 2217 Australia
| | - Julia Beretov
- grid.1005.40000 0004 4902 0432St. George and Sutherland Clinical Campuses, School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW 2052 Australia ,grid.416398.10000 0004 0417 5393Cancer Care Centre, St. George Hospital, Kogarah, NSW 2217 Australia ,grid.416398.10000 0004 0417 5393Anatomical Pathology, NSW Health Pathology, St. George Hospital, Kogarah, NSW 2217 Australia
| | - Valerie C. Wasinger
- grid.1005.40000 0004 4902 0432Bioanalytical Mass Spectrometry Facility, Mark Wainwright Analytical Centre, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW 2052 Australia ,grid.1005.40000 0004 4902 0432School of Medical Science, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW 2052 Australia
| | - Peter Graham
- grid.1005.40000 0004 4902 0432St. George and Sutherland Clinical Campuses, School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW 2052 Australia ,grid.416398.10000 0004 0417 5393Cancer Care Centre, St. George Hospital, Kogarah, NSW 2217 Australia
| | - Yong Li
- St. George and Sutherland Clinical Campuses, School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW, 2052, Australia. .,Cancer Care Centre, St. George Hospital, Kogarah, NSW, 2217, Australia.
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37
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Akkız H. Emerging Role of Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts in Progression and Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:3941. [PMID: 36835352 PMCID: PMC9964606 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2022] [Revised: 01/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most prevalent cancers worldwide and the fourth leading cause of cancer-related death globally. Tumor cells recruit and remodel various types of stromal and inflammatory cells to form a tumor microenvironment (TME), which encompasses cellular and molecular entities, including cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), tumor-associated neutrophils (TANs), immune cells, myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), immune checkpoint molecules and cytokines that promote cancer cell growth, as well as their drug resistance. HCC usually arises in the context of cirrhosis, which is always associated with an enrichment of activated fibroblasts that are owed to chronic inflammation. CAFs are a major component of the TME, providing physical support in it and secreting various proteins, such as extracellular matrices (ECMs), hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), insulin-like growth factor 1/2 (ILGF1/2) and cytokines that can modulate tumor growth and survival. As such, CAF-derived signaling may increase the pool of resistant cells, thus reducing the duration of clinical responses and increasing the degree of heterogeneity within tumors. Although CAFs are often implicated to be associated with tumor growth, metastasis and drug resistance, several studies have reported that CAFs have significant phenotypic and functional heterogeneity, and some CAFs display antitumor and drug-sensitizing properties. Multiple studies have highlighted the relevance of crosstalk between HCC cells, CAFs and other stromal cells in influence of HCC progression. Although basic and clinical studies partially revealed the emerging roles of CAFs in immunotherapy resistance and immune evasion, a better understanding of the unique functions of CAFs in HCC progression will contribute to development of more effective molecular-targeted drugs. In this review article, molecular mechanisms involved in crosstalk between CAFs, HCC cells and other stromal cells, as well as the effects of CAFs on HCC-cell growth, metastasis, drug resistance and clinical outcomes, are comprehensively discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hikmet Akkız
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The University of Bahçeşehir, Istanbul 34425, Turkey
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38
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Qu X, Liu B, Wang L, Liu L, Zhao W, Liu C, Ding J, Zhao S, Xu B, Yu H, Zhang X, Chai J. Loss of cancer-associated fibroblast-derived exosomal DACT3-AS1 promotes malignant transformation and ferroptosis-mediated oxaliplatin resistance in gastric cancer. Drug Resist Updat 2023; 68:100936. [PMID: 36764075 DOI: 10.1016/j.drup.2023.100936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 48.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), as one of the components of exosomes derived from cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), exhibit a crucial role in the pathogenesis and chemoresistance of gastric cancer (GC). Herein, we investigated the role and mechanism of a novel lncRNA disheveled binding antagonist of beta catenin3 antisense1 (DACT3-AS1) and its involvement in GC. METHODS DACT3-AS1 was identified by RNA-sequencing and verified by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The functional role of DACT3-AS1 in GC was evaluated using in vitro and in vivo experiments including Transwell assay, 5-Ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU) assay, immunoblotting, and xenograft tumor mouse model. Dual-luciferase reporter assay was performed to assess the association between genes. RESULTS DACT3-AS1 was downregulated and involved in poor prognosis of patients with GC. The results from both in vitro and in vivo experiments showed that DACT3-AS1 suppressed cell proliferation, migration, and invasion through targeting miR-181a-5p/sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) axis. Additionally, DACT3-AS1 was transmitted from CAFs to GC cells mainly via exosomes. Exosomal DACT3-AS1 alleviated xenograft tumor growth. DACT3-AS1 conferred sensitivity of cancer cells to oxaliplatin through SIRT1-mediated ferroptosis both in vitro and in vivo. CONCLUSIONS CAFs-derived exosomal DACT3-AS1 is a suppressive regulator in malignant transformation and oxaliplatin resistance. DACT3-AS1 could be used for diagnosis and treatment of GC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianlin Qu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Science, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Bing Liu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Science, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Longgang Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Science, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Luguang Liu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Science, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Weizhu Zhao
- Department of Radiology, Shandong University, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Jinan, Shandong, China; Department of Oncology, Binzhou People's Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Binzhou, Shandong, China
| | - Changlei Liu
- Department of scientific research project, Shandong Excalibur Medical Research. LTD, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jishuang Ding
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Science, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Siwei Zhao
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Science, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Botao Xu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Science, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Hang Yu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Science, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xiang Zhang
- Department of scientific research project, Shandong Excalibur Medical Research. LTD, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jie Chai
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Science, Jinan, Shandong, China.
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Ying F, Chan MSM, Lee TKW. Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts in Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Cholangiocarcinoma. Cell Mol Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 15:985-999. [PMID: 36708970 PMCID: PMC10040968 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmgh.2023.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Primary liver cancer (PLC) includes hepatocellular carcinoma and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma and is the sixth most common cancer worldwide with poor prognosis. PLC is characterized by an abundant stromal reaction in which cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are one of the major stromal components. Solid evidence has demonstrated the crucial role of CAFs in tumor progression, and CAF abundance is often correlated with poor clinical outcomes. Although CAFs are regarded as an attractive and promising target for PLC treatment, a poor understanding of CAF origins and heterogeneity and a lack of specific CAF markers are the major hurdles to efficient CAF-specific therapy. In this review, we examine recent advances in the understanding of CAF diversity in the context of biomarkers, subtypes, and functions in PLC. The regulatory roles of CAFs in extracellular matrix remodeling, metastasis, cancer stemness, and therapeutic resistance are summarized. With an increasing link between CAF abundance and reduced antitumor immune responses, we provide updated knowledge on the crosstalk between CAFs and immune cells within the tumor microenvironment, which leads to immune resistance. In addition, we present current CAF-targeted therapies and describe some future perspectives. A better understanding of CAF biology will shed light on a novel therapeutic strategy against PLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Ying
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
| | - Mandy Sze Man Chan
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
| | - Terence Kin Wah Lee
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong; State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong.
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40
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Yao M, Liang S, Cheng B. Role of exosomes in hepatocellular carcinoma and the regulation of traditional Chinese medicine. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1110922. [PMID: 36733504 PMCID: PMC9886889 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1110922] [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: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) usually occurs on the basis of chronic liver inflammatory diseases and cirrhosis. The liver microenvironment plays a vital role in the tumor initiation and progression. Exosomes, which are nanometer-sized membrane vesicles are secreted by a number of cell types. Exosomes carry multiple proteins, DNAs and various forms of RNA, and are mediators of cell-cell communication and regulate the tumor microenvironment. In the recent decade, many studies have demonstrated that exosomes are involved in the communication between HCC cells and the stromal cells, including endothelial cells, macrophages, hepatic stellate cells and the immune cells, and serve as a regulator in the tumor proliferation and metastasis, immune evasion and immunotherapy. In addition, exosomes can also be used for the diagnosis and treatment HCC. They can potentially serve as specific biomarkers for early diagnosis and drug delivery vehicles of HCC. Chinese herbal medicine, which is widely used in the prevention and treatment of HCC in China, may regulate the release of exosomes and exosomes-mediated intercellular communication. In this review, we summarized the latest progresses on the role of the exosomes in the initiation, progression and treatment of HCC and the potential value of Traditional Chinese medicine in exosomes-mediated biological behaviors of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man Yao
- Oncology Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University (The Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, China
| | - Shufang Liang
- Oncology Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University (The Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, China
| | - Binbin Cheng
- Oncology Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University (The Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, China,Faculty of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Naval Medical University (The Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, China,*Correspondence: Binbin Cheng,
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41
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Meng Q, Deng Y, Lu Y, Wu C, Tang S. Tumor-derived miRNAs as tumor microenvironment regulators for synergistic therapeutic options. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2023; 149:423-439. [PMID: 36378341 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-022-04432-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of non-coding RNAs that perform post-transcriptional gene regulation. This review focuses on the role of tumor cell-derived miRNAs in the regulation of the tumor microenvironment (TME) via receptor cell recoding, including angiogenesis, expression of immunosuppressive molecules, formation of radiation resistance, and chemoresistance. Furthermore, we discuss the potential of these molecules as adjuvant therapies in combination with chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or immunotherapy, as well as their advantages as efficacy predictors for personalized therapy. MiRNA-based therapeutic agents for tumors are currently in clinical trials, and while challenges remain, additional research on tumor-derived miRNAs is warranted, which may provide significant clinical benefits to cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuxing Meng
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Liuzhou People's Hospital, Liu Zhou, China.,Liuzhou Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Viral Diseases, Liu Zhou, China
| | - Yaoming Deng
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Liuzhou People's Hospital, Liu Zhou, China.,Liuzhou Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Viral Diseases, Liu Zhou, China
| | - Yu Lu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Liuzhou People's Hospital, Liu Zhou, China.,Liuzhou Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Viral Diseases, Liu Zhou, China
| | - Chunfeng Wu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Liuzhou People's Hospital, Liu Zhou, China.,Liuzhou Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Viral Diseases, Liu Zhou, China
| | - Shifu Tang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Liuzhou People's Hospital, Liu Zhou, China. .,Liuzhou Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Viral Diseases, Liu Zhou, China.
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42
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Zhang Y, Pan Q, Shao Z. Extracellular vesicles derived from cancer-associated fibroblasts carry tumor-promotive microRNA-1228-3p to enhance the resistance of hepatocellular carcinoma cells to sorafenib. Hum Cell 2023; 36:296-311. [PMID: 36424471 DOI: 10.1007/s13577-022-00800-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs)-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) can promote tumor progression by delivering microRNA (miRNA). Whether EVs could transfer miR-1228-3p into hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells to affect chemoresistance was discussed in this study. Normal fibroblasts (NFs) and CAFs were isolated from tissue samples of HCC patients. We assessed the functions of HCC cells after co-culturing with NFs and CAFs. miR-1228-3p gain-of-function experiments were conducted. Next, functional assays were carried out to determine the binding of miR-1228-3p to placenta associated 8 (PLAC8). In vivo models were constructed for validation. CAFs-derived EVs exerted promoting effect on proliferative, migrating, invading potential of HCC cells and their resistance to sorafenib. PLAC8 was demonstrated as a direct target of miR-1228-3p. By targeting PLAC8, miR-1228-3p activated the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT) pathway. In addition, the transfer of miR-1228-3p from CAFs-derived EVs into HCC cells boosted chemoresistance of HCC cells, which was reversed by restoring PLAC8. All in all, CAF-EV-carried miR-1228-3p strengthens the chemoresistance of HCC through activating PLAC8-mediated PI3K/AKT pathway. This finding contributes to the development of EV-based therapies overcoming the chemoresistance of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yijie Zhang
- Department of Organ Transplantation and Hepatobiliary, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, No. 155, Nanjing Street, Shenyang, 110000, Liaoning Province, People's Republic of China
- The Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, 110000, Liaoning Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Qi Pan
- Department of Organ Transplantation and Hepatobiliary, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, No. 155, Nanjing Street, Shenyang, 110000, Liaoning Province, People's Republic of China
- The Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, 110000, Liaoning Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Zigong Shao
- Department of Organ Transplantation and Hepatobiliary, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, No. 155, Nanjing Street, Shenyang, 110000, Liaoning Province, People's Republic of China.
- The Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, 110000, Liaoning Province, People's Republic of China.
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43
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Niu ZS, Wang WH, Niu XJ. Recent progress in molecular mechanisms of postoperative recurrence and metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma. World J Gastroenterol 2022; 28:6433-6477. [PMID: 36569275 PMCID: PMC9782839 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v28.i46.6433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatectomy is currently considered the most effective option for treating patients with early and intermediate hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Unfortunately, the postoperative prognosis of patients with HCC remains unsatisfactory, predominantly because of high postoperative metastasis and recurrence rates. Therefore, research on the molecular mechanisms of postoperative HCC metastasis and recurrence will help develop effective intervention measures to prevent or delay HCC metastasis and recurrence and to improve the long-term survival of HCC patients. Herein, we review the latest research progress on the molecular mechanisms underlying postoperative HCC metastasis and recurrence to lay a foundation for improving the understanding of HCC metastasis and recurrence and for developing more precise prevention and intervention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhao-Shan Niu
- Laboratory of Micromorphology, School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, Shandong Province, China
| | - Wen-Hong Wang
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, Shandong Province, China
| | - Xiao-Jun Niu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Qingdao Shibei District People's Hospital, Qingdao 266033, Shandong Province, China
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44
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Fang Z, Meng Q, Xu J, Wang W, Zhang B, Liu J, Liang C, Hua J, Zhao Y, Yu X, Shi S. Signaling pathways in cancer-associated fibroblasts: recent advances and future perspectives. CANCER COMMUNICATIONS (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2022; 43:3-41. [PMID: 36424360 PMCID: PMC9859735 DOI: 10.1002/cac2.12392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
As a critical component of the tumor microenvironment (TME), cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play important roles in cancer initiation and progression. Well-known signaling pathways, including the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), Hedgehog (Hh), Notch, Wnt, Hippo, nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB), Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), and phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT pathways, as well as transcription factors, including hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF), heat shock transcription factor 1 (HSF1), P53, Snail, and Twist, constitute complex regulatory networks in the TME to modulate the formation, activation, heterogeneity, metabolic characteristics and malignant phenotype of CAFs. Activated CAFs remodel the TME and influence the malignant biological processes of cancer cells by altering the transcriptional and secretory characteristics, and this modulation partially depends on the regulation of signaling cascades. The results of preclinical and clinical trials indicated that therapies targeting signaling pathways in CAFs demonstrated promising efficacy but were also accompanied by some failures (e.g., NCT01130142 and NCT01064622). Hence, a comprehensive understanding of the signaling cascades in CAFs might help us better understand the roles of CAFs and the TME in cancer progression and may facilitate the development of more efficient and safer stroma-targeted cancer therapies. Here, we review recent advances in studies of signaling pathways in CAFs and briefly discuss some future perspectives on CAF research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zengli Fang
- Department of Pancreatic SurgeryFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghai200032P. R. China,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer InstituteShanghai200032P. R. China,Pancreatic Cancer InstituteFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Qingcai Meng
- Department of Pancreatic SurgeryFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghai200032P. R. China,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer InstituteShanghai200032P. R. China,Pancreatic Cancer InstituteFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Jin Xu
- Department of Pancreatic SurgeryFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghai200032P. R. China,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer InstituteShanghai200032P. R. China,Pancreatic Cancer InstituteFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Pancreatic SurgeryFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghai200032P. R. China,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer InstituteShanghai200032P. R. China,Pancreatic Cancer InstituteFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Department of Pancreatic SurgeryFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghai200032P. R. China,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer InstituteShanghai200032P. R. China,Pancreatic Cancer InstituteFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Jiang Liu
- Department of Pancreatic SurgeryFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghai200032P. R. China,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer InstituteShanghai200032P. R. China,Pancreatic Cancer InstituteFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Chen Liang
- Department of Pancreatic SurgeryFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghai200032P. R. China,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer InstituteShanghai200032P. R. China,Pancreatic Cancer InstituteFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Jie Hua
- Department of Pancreatic SurgeryFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghai200032P. R. China,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer InstituteShanghai200032P. R. China,Pancreatic Cancer InstituteFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Yingjun Zhao
- Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China,Institutes of Biomedical SciencesShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Xianjun Yu
- Department of Pancreatic SurgeryFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghai200032P. R. China,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer InstituteShanghai200032P. R. China,Pancreatic Cancer InstituteFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
| | - Si Shi
- Department of Pancreatic SurgeryFudan University Shanghai Cancer CenterShanghai200032P. R. China,Department of OncologyShanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China,Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer InstituteShanghai200032P. R. China,Pancreatic Cancer InstituteFudan UniversityShanghai200032P. R. China
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45
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Naito Y, Yoshioka Y, Ochiya T. Intercellular crosstalk between cancer cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts via extracellular vesicles. Cancer Cell Int 2022; 22:367. [PMID: 36424598 PMCID: PMC9686122 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-022-02784-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Intercellular communication plays an important role in cancer initiation and progression through direct contact and indirect interactions, such as via secretory molecules. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are one of the principal components of such communication with cancer cells, modulating cancer metastasis and tumour mechanics and influencing angiogenesis, the immune system, and therapeutic resistance. Over the past few years, there has been a significant increase in research on extracellular vesicles (EVs) as regulatory agents in intercellular communication. EVs enable the transfer of functional molecules, including proteins, mRNAs and microRNAs (miRNAs), to recipient cells. Cancer cells utilize EVs to dictate the specific characteristics of CAFs within the tumour microenvironment, thereby promoting cancer progression. In response to such "education" by cancer cells, CAFs contribute to cancer progression via EVs. In this review, we summarize experimental data indicating the pivotal roles of EVs in intercellular communication between cancer cells and CAFs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutaka Naito
- grid.410821.e0000 0001 2173 8328Department of Bioregulation, Institute for Advanced Medical Sciences, Nippon Medical School, 1-1-5, Sendagi, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-8602 Japan
| | - Yusuke Yoshioka
- grid.410793.80000 0001 0663 3325Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo Medical University, 6-7-1, Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku-Ku, Tokyo, 160-0023 Japan
| | - Takahiro Ochiya
- grid.410793.80000 0001 0663 3325Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo Medical University, 6-7-1, Nishishinjuku, Shinjuku-Ku, Tokyo, 160-0023 Japan
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46
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Wang Y, Liang H, Zheng J. Exosomal microRNAs mediating crosstalk between cancer cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts in the tumor microenvironment. Pathol Res Pract 2022; 239:154159. [DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2022.154159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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47
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Yu S, Zhou L, Fu J, Xu L, Liu B, Zhao Y, Wang J, Yan X, Su J. H-TEX-mediated signaling between hepatocellular carcinoma cells and macrophages and exosome-targeted therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Immunol 2022; 13:997726. [PMID: 36311698 PMCID: PMC9608495 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.997726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
There is increasing evidence for the key role of the immune microenvironment in the occurrence and development of hepatocellular carcinoma. As an important component of the immune microenvironment, the polarization state and function of macrophages determine the maintenance of the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Hepatocellular carcinoma tumor-derived exosomes, as information carriers, regulate the physiological state of cells in the microenvironment and control cancer progression. In this review, we focus on the role of the exosome content in disease outcomes at different stages in the progression of hepatitis B virus/hepatitis C virus-induced hepatocellular carcinoma. We also explore the mechanism by which macrophages contribute to the formation of hepatocellular carcinoma and summarize the regulation of macrophage functions by the heterogeneity of exosome loading in liver cancer. Finally, with the rise of exosome modification in immunotherapy research on hepatocellular carcinoma, we summarize the application prospects of exosome-based targeted drug delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sihang Yu
- Department of Pathophysiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Lei Zhou
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Hospital to Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Jiaying Fu
- Department of Pathophysiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Long Xu
- Department of Pathophysiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Buhan Liu
- Department of Pathophysiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yuanxin Zhao
- Department of Pathophysiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jian Wang
- Department of Pathophysiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xiaoyu Yan
- Department of Pathophysiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
- *Correspondence: Xiaoyu Yan, ; Jing Su,
| | - Jing Su
- Department of Pathophysiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
- *Correspondence: Xiaoyu Yan, ; Jing Su,
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48
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Wang Q, Feng J, Tang L. Non-Coding RNA Related to MAPK Signaling Pathway in Liver Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:11908. [PMID: 36233210 PMCID: PMC9570382 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231911908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The advancement in high-throughput sequencing analysis and the evaluation of chromatin state maps have revealed that eukaryotic cells produce many non-coding transcripts/RNAs. Further, a strong association was observed between some non-coding RNAs and cancer development. The mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) belong to the serine-threonine kinase family and are the primary signaling pathways involved in cell proliferation from the cell surface to the nucleus. They play an important role in various human diseases. A few non-coding RNAs associated with the MAPK signaling pathway play a significant role in the development of several malignancies, including liver cancer. In this review, we summarize the molecular mechanisms and interactions of microRNA, lncRNA, and other non-coding RNAs in the development of liver cancer that are associated with the MAPK signaling pathway. Further, we briefly discuss the therapeutic strategies for liver cancer related to ncRNA and the MAPK signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuxia Wang
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Jianguo Feng
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
- Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Liling Tang
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
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49
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Wu G, Yang Y, Ye R, Yue H, Zhang H, Huang T, Liu M, Zheng Y, Wang Y, Zhou Y, Guo Q. Development and validation of an ECM-related prognostic signature to predict the immune landscape of human hepatocellular carcinoma. BMC Cancer 2022; 22:1036. [PMID: 36195857 PMCID: PMC9531523 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-022-10049-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The global burden of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is increasing, negatively impacting social health and economies. The discovery of novel and valuable biomarkers for the early diagnosis and therapeutic guidance of HCC is urgently needed. Methods Extracellular matrix (ECM)-related gene sets, transcriptome data and mutation profiles were downloaded from the Matrisome Project and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA)-LIHC datasets. Coexpression analysis was initially performed with the aim of identifying ECM-related lncRNAs (r > 0.4, p < 0.001). The screened lncRNAs were subjected to univariate analysis to obtain a series of prognosis-related lncRNA sets, which were incorporated into least absolute selection and shrinkage operator (LASSO) regression for signature establishment. Following the grouping of LIHC samples according to risk score, the correlations between the signature and clinicopathological, tumour immune infiltration, and mutational characteristics as well as therapeutic response were also analysed. lncRNA expression levels used for modelling were finally examined at the cellular and tissue levels by real-time PCR. All analyses were based on R software. Results AL031985.3 and MKLN1-AS were ultimately identified as signature-related lncRNAs, and both were significantly upregulated in HCC tissue samples and cell lines. The prognostic value of the signature reflected by the AUC value was superior to that of age, sex, grade and stage. Correlation analysis results demonstrated that high-risk groups exhibited significant enrichment of immune cells (DCs, macrophages and Tregs) and increased expression levels of all immune checkpoint genes. Prominent differences in clinicopathological profiles, immune functions, tumour mutation burden (TMB) and drug sensitivity were noted between the two risk groups. Conclusions Our signature represents a valuable predictive tool in the prognostic management of HCC patients. Further validation of the mechanisms involved is needed. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12885-022-10049-w.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guozhi Wu
- The First Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China.,Department of Gastroenterology, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, No.1 West Donggang Road, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China.,Gansu Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China
| | - Yuan Yang
- The First Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China.,Department of Gastroenterology, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, No.1 West Donggang Road, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China.,Gansu Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China
| | - Rong Ye
- Department of Radiology, the First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China
| | - Hanxun Yue
- The First Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China.,Department of Gastroenterology, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, No.1 West Donggang Road, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China.,Gansu Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China
| | - Huiyun Zhang
- The First Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China.,Department of Gastroenterology, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, No.1 West Donggang Road, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China.,Gansu Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China
| | - Taobi Huang
- The First Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China.,Department of Gastroenterology, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, No.1 West Donggang Road, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China.,Gansu Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China
| | - Min Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, No.1 West Donggang Road, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China.,Gansu Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China
| | - Ya Zheng
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, No.1 West Donggang Road, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China.,Gansu Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China
| | - Yuping Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, No.1 West Donggang Road, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China.,Gansu Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China
| | - Yongning Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, No.1 West Donggang Road, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China. .,Gansu Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China.
| | - Qinghong Guo
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, No.1 West Donggang Road, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China. .,Gansu Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China.
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50
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The immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment in hepatocellular carcinoma-current situation and outlook. Mol Immunol 2022; 151:218-230. [PMID: 36179604 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2022.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most severe malignant tumors that threaten human health, and its incidence is still on the rise recently. In spite of the current emerging treatment strategies, the overall prognosis of liver cancer remains worrying. Currently, immunotherapy has become a new research-active spot. The emergence of immune checkpoints and targeted immune cell therapy can significantly improve the prognosis of HCC. To a large extent, the effect of this immunotherapy depends on the tumor immune microenvironment (TME), an intricate system in which cancer cells and other non-cancer cells display various interactions. Understanding the immunosuppressive situation of these cells, along with the malignant behavior of cancer cells, can assist us to design new therapeutic approaches against tumors. Therefore, it is necessary to clarify the TME of HCC for further improvement of clinical treatment. This review discussed the functions of several immunosuppressive cells and exosomes in the latest research progress of HCC, including cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and tumor-associated neutrophils (TANs) interacted actively to facilitate tumor progression. It further describes the treatment methods targeting them and the potential that needs to be explored in the future.
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