1
|
Affὸ S, Sererols-Viñas L, Garcia-Vicién G, Cadamuro M, Chakraborty S, Sirica AE. Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts in Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma: Insights into Origins, Heterogeneity, Lymphangiogenesis, and Peritoneal Metastasis. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2024:S0002-9440(24)00279-7. [PMID: 39117110 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2024.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2024] [Revised: 07/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) denotes a rare, highly malignant, and heterogeneous class of primary liver adenocarcinomas exhibiting phenotypic characteristics of cholangiocyte differentiation. Among the distinctive pathological features of iCCA, one that differentiates the most common macroscopic subtype (eg, mass-forming type) of this hepatic tumor from conventional hepatocellular carcinoma, is a prominent desmoplastic reaction manifested as a dense fibro-collagenous-enriched tumor stroma. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) represent the most abundant mesenchymal cell type in the desmoplastic reaction. Although the protumor effects of CAFs in iCCA have been increasingly recognized, more recent cell lineage tracing studies, advanced single-cell RNA sequencing, and expanded biomarker analyses have provided new awareness into their ontogeny, as well as underscored their biological complexity as reflected by the presence of multiple subtypes. In addition, evidence has been described to support CAFs' potential to display cancer-restrictive roles, including immunosuppression. However, CAFs also play important roles in facilitating metastasis, as exemplified by lymph node metastasis and peritoneal carcinomatosis, which are common in iCCA. Herein, the authors provide a timely appraisal of the origins and phenotypic and functional complexity of CAFs in iCCA, together with providing mechanistic insights into lymphangiogenesis and peritoneal metastasis relevant to this lethal human cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Affὸ
- Tumor Microenvironment Plasticity and Heterogeneity Research Group, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Laura Sererols-Viñas
- Tumor Microenvironment Plasticity and Heterogeneity Research Group, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gemma Garcia-Vicién
- Tumor Microenvironment Plasticity and Heterogeneity Research Group, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Sanjukta Chakraborty
- Department of Medical Physiology, School of Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Bryan, Texas
| | - Alphonse E Sirica
- Department of Pathology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, Virginia.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Varinelli L, Battistessa D, Guaglio M, Zanutto S, Illescas O, Lorenc EJ, Pisati F, Kusamura S, Cattaneo L, Sabella G, Milione M, Perbellini A, Noci S, Paolino C, Kuhn E, Galassi M, Cavalleri T, Deraco M, Gariboldi M, Baratti D. Colorectal carcinoma peritoneal metastases-derived organoids: results and perspective of a model for tailoring hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy from bench-to-bedside. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2024; 43:132. [PMID: 38698446 PMCID: PMC11064374 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-024-03052-5] [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: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Peritoneal metastases from colorectal cancer (CRCPM) are related to poor prognosis. Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) have been reported to improve survival, but peritoneal recurrence rates are still high and there is no consensus on the drug of choice for HIPEC. The aim of this study was to use patient derived organoids (PDO) to build a relevant CRCPM model to improve HIPEC efficacy in a comprehensive bench-to-bedside strategy. METHODS Oxaliplatin (L-OHP), cisplatin (CDDP), mitomycin-c (MMC) and doxorubicin (DOX) were used to mimic HIPEC on twelve PDO lines derived from twelve CRCPM patients, using clinically relevant concentrations. After chemotherapeutic interventions, cell viability was assessed with a luminescent assay, and the obtained dose-response curves were used to determine the half-maximal inhibitory concentrations. Also, induction of apoptosis by different HIPEC interventions on PDOs was studied by evaluating CASPASE3 cleavage. RESULTS Response to drug treatments varied considerably among PDOs. The two schemes with better response at clinically relevant concentrations included MMC alone or combined with CDDP. L-OHP showed relative efficacy only when administered at low concentrations over a long perfusion period. PDOs showed that the short course/high dose L-OHP scheme did not appear to be an effective choice for HIPEC in CRCPM. HIPEC administered under hyperthermia conditions enhanced the effect of chemotherapy drugs against cancer cells, affecting PDO viability and apoptosis. Finally, PDO co-cultured with cancer-associated fibroblast impacted HIPEC treatments by increasing PDO viability and reducing CASPASES activity. CONCLUSIONS Our study suggests that PDOs could be a reliable in vitro model to evaluate HIPEC schemes at individual-patient level and to develop more effective treatment strategies for CRCPM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luca Varinelli
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Molecular Epigenomics Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori, Via G. Venezian 1, Milan, 20133, Italy
| | - Davide Battistessa
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Molecular Epigenomics Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori, Via G. Venezian 1, Milan, 20133, Italy
| | - Marcello Guaglio
- Peritoneal Surface Malignancies Unit, Colorectal Surgery, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori, Via G. Venezian 1, Milan, 20133, Italy
| | - Susanna Zanutto
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Molecular Epigenomics Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori, Via G. Venezian 1, Milan, 20133, Italy
| | - Oscar Illescas
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Molecular Epigenomics Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori, Via G. Venezian 1, Milan, 20133, Italy
| | - Ewelina J Lorenc
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Molecular Epigenomics Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori, Via G. Venezian 1, Milan, 20133, Italy
| | - Federica Pisati
- Cogentech Ltd. Benefit Corporation With a Sole Shareholder, Via Adamello 16, Milan, 20139, Italy
| | - Shigeki Kusamura
- Peritoneal Surface Malignancies Unit, Colorectal Surgery, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori, Via G. Venezian 1, Milan, 20133, Italy
| | - Laura Cattaneo
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Dei Tumori Di Milano, Via G. Venezian 1, Milan, 20133, Italy
| | - Giovanna Sabella
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Dei Tumori Di Milano, Via G. Venezian 1, Milan, 20133, Italy
| | - Massimo Milione
- Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Department, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Dei Tumori Di Milano, Via G. Venezian 1, Milan, 20133, Italy
| | - Alessia Perbellini
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Molecular Epigenomics Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori, Via G. Venezian 1, Milan, 20133, Italy
| | - Sara Noci
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Molecular Epigenomics Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori, Via G. Venezian 1, Milan, 20133, Italy
| | - Cinzia Paolino
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Molecular Epigenomics Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori, Via G. Venezian 1, Milan, 20133, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Kuhn
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, 20122, Italy
- Pathology Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, 20122, Italy
| | - Margherita Galassi
- Centrale Produzione Farmaci, Hospital Pharmacy, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Dei Tumori Di Milano, Via G. Venezian 1, Milan, 20133, Italy
| | - Tommaso Cavalleri
- Peritoneal Surface Malignancies Unit, Colorectal Surgery, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori, Via G. Venezian 1, Milan, 20133, Italy
| | - Marcello Deraco
- Peritoneal Surface Malignancies Unit, Colorectal Surgery, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori, Via G. Venezian 1, Milan, 20133, Italy.
| | - Manuela Gariboldi
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Molecular Epigenomics Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori, Via G. Venezian 1, Milan, 20133, Italy
| | - Dario Baratti
- Peritoneal Surface Malignancies Unit, Colorectal Surgery, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori, Via G. Venezian 1, Milan, 20133, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Zhang Y, Liu YJ, Mei J, Yang ZX, Qian XP, Huang W. An Analysis Regarding the Association Between DAZ Interacting Zinc Finger Protein 1 (DZIP1) and Colorectal Cancer (CRC). Mol Biotechnol 2024:10.1007/s12033-024-01065-1. [PMID: 38334905 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-024-01065-1] [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: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common malignant disease worldwide, and its incidence is increasing, but the molecular mechanisms of this disease are highly heterogeneous and still far from being fully understood. Increasing evidence suggests that fibrosis mediated by abnormal activation of fibroblasts based in the microenvironment is associated with a poor prognosis. However, the function and pathogenic mechanisms of fibroblasts in CRC remain unclear. Here, combining scrna-seq and clinical specimen data, DAZ Interacting Protein 1 (DZIP1) was found to be expressed on fibroblasts and cancer cells and positively correlated with stromal deposition. Importantly, pseudotime-series analysis showed that DZIP1 levels were up-regulated in malignant transformation of fibroblasts and experimentally confirmed that DZIP1 modulates activation of fibroblasts and promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in tumor cells. Further studies showed that DZIP1 expressed by tumor cells also has a driving effect on EMT and contributes to the recruitment of more fibroblasts. A similar phenomenon was observed in xenografted nude mice. And it was confirmed in xenograft mice that downregulation of DZIP1 expression significantly delayed tumor formation and reduced tumor size in CRC cells. Taken together, our findings suggested that DZIP1 was a regulator of the CRC mesenchymal phenotype. The revelation of targeting DZIP1 provides a new avenue for CRC therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhang
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Jinling Hospital, Medical School Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Oncology, Nanjing Tianyinshan Hospital, Nanjing, 211199, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yuan-Jie Liu
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jia Mei
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Jinling Hospital, Medical School Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhao-Xu Yang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Jinling Hospital, Medical School Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiao-Ping Qian
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China.
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Clinical Cancer Institute of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210008, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Wei Huang
- Department of Oncology, Jiangsu Province Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Hanzhong Road No.155, Nanjing, 210029, Jiangsu, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Dai CL, Yang HX, Liu QP, Rahman K, Zhang H. CXCL6: A potential therapeutic target for inflammation and cancer. Clin Exp Med 2023; 23:4413-4427. [PMID: 37612429 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-023-01152-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
Chemokines were originally defined as cytokines that affect the movement of immune cells. In recent years, due to the increasing importance of immune cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME), the role of chemokines has changed from a single "chemotactic agent" to a key factor that can regulate TME and affect the tumor phenotype. CXCL6, also known as granulocyte chemoattractant protein-2 (GCP-2), can recruit neutrophils to complete non-specific immunity in the process of inflammation. Cancer-related genes and interleukin family can promote the abnormal secretion of CXCL6, which promotes tumor growth, metastasis, epithelial mesenchymal transformation (EMT) and angiogenesis in the TME. CXCL6 also has a role in promoting fibrosis and tissue damage repair. In this review, we focus on the regulatory network affecting CXCL6 expression, its role in the progress of inflammation and how it affects tumorigenesis and progression based on the TME, in an attempt to provide a potential target for the treatment of diseases such as inflammation and cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Lan Dai
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hong-Xuan Yang
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiu-Ping Liu
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Khalid Rahman
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Faculty of Science, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
| | - Hong Zhang
- Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Hu S, Qin J, Gao R, Xiao Q, Liu X, Pan Y, Wang S. Integrated analysis of single cell and bulk RNA sequencing identifies CTHRC1 + INHBA + CAF as drivers of colorectal cancer progression. Mol Carcinog 2023; 62:1787-1802. [PMID: 37539967 DOI: 10.1002/mc.23615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are a key component of the tumor microenvironment and a critical factor in the progression of colorectal cancer (CRC). The aim of this study was to screen for CAFs specific genes that could serve as promising therapeutic targets for CRC patients. Our findings showed a significant increase in the proportion of fibroblasts in CRC tissues, and a high proportion of fibroblasts was associated with immune escape and poor prognosis in CRC. Collagen triple helix repeat containing 1 (CTHRC1) and inhibin subunit beta A (INHBA) were identified as key genes in the progression of CRC, primarily expressed in CAFs and significantly upregulated in CRC tissues. We defined CTHRC1 and INHBA as cancer-associated fibroblast-related genes (CAFRGs), which were associated with poor prognosis in CRC and macrophage polarization. CAFRGs promoted immune escape and metastasis in CRC and were good predictors of immune therapy response. Drug sensitivity analysis showed that the high expression group of CAFRGs was sensitive to 15 chemotherapy drugs, while the low expression group was sensitive to only 3. Clustering of fibroblasts in the tumor revealed that CTHRC1+ INHBA+ CAF was a poor prognostic factor in CRC and was associated with extracellular matrix remodeling and immune regulation. In conclusion, our study provides new theoretical basis for effective treatment strategies and therapeutic targets for CRC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shangshang Hu
- School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- General Clinical Research Center, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jian Qin
- School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- General Clinical Research Center, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Rui Gao
- School of Basic Medicine and Clinical Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - QianNi Xiao
- School of Basic Medicine and Clinical Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiangxiang Liu
- School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- General Clinical Research Center, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yuqin Pan
- General Clinical Research Center, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center on Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shukui Wang
- School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- General Clinical Research Center, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- School of Basic Medicine and Clinical Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center on Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Luo Q, Zhuang J, Zheng D, Miao C, Luo H, Peng J, Zheng C, Qin C, Lan C, Chen M, Xia Y, Huang D, Chen Z. IGFBP2 from a novel copper metabolism-associated biomarker promoted glioma progression and response to immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1282734. [PMID: 37928523 PMCID: PMC10620745 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1282734] [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: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Copper metabolism encompasses all cellular metabolic processes involving copper ions and plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of diseases, including cancer. Furthermore, copper is intricately involved in various processes related to nucleotide metabolism. However, a comprehensive analysis of copper metabolism in gliomas remains lacking despite its importance. Methods To address this gap, glioma patients were stratified based on the expression levels of copper metabolism-related genes. By utilizing machine learning techniques, a novel copper metabolism-associated biomarker was developed. The potential of this biomarker in prognosis, mutation analysis, and predicting immunotherapy response efficiency in gliomas was systematically investigated. Results Notably, IGFBP2, identified as a glioma tumor promoter, was found to promote disease progression and influence immunotherapy response. Additionally, glioma-derived IGFBP2 was observed to enhance microglial migration. High IGFBP2 expression in GBM cells facilitated macrophage interactions through the EGFR, CD63, ITGB1, and CD44 signaling pathways. Discussion: Overall, the copper metabolism-associated biomarker shows promising potential to enhance the clinical management of gliomas, offering valuable insights into disease prognosis and treatment strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qisheng Luo
- Department of Neurosurgery, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, Guangxi, China
| | - Junhong Zhuang
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Haikou Hospital of Xiangya Medical School, Central South University, Haikou, China
| | - Dandan Zheng
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Changfeng Miao
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Neurosurgery Second Branche, Hunan Provincial People’s Hospital (The First affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University), Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Hongcheng Luo
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, Guangxi, China
| | - Jun Peng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Affiliated Haikou Hospital of Xiangya Medical School, Central South University, Haikou, China
| | - Chuanhua Zheng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, Guangxi, China
| | - Chengjian Qin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, Guangxi, China
| | - Chuanliu Lan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, Guangxi, China
| | - Meiqin Chen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Affiliated Jinhua Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Jinhua, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ying Xia
- Department of Neurosurgery, Affiliated Haikou Hospital of Xiangya Medical School, Central South University, Haikou, China
| | - Deyou Huang
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, Guangxi, China
| | - Zigui Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Affiliated Haikou Hospital of Xiangya Medical School, Central South University, Haikou, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Wang Y, Wang Y, Liu B, Gao X, Li Y, Li F, Zhou H. Mapping the tumor microenvironment in clear cell renal carcinoma by single-cell transcriptome analysis. Front Genet 2023; 14:1207233. [PMID: 37533434 PMCID: PMC10392130 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2023.1207233] [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: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is associated with unfavorable clinical outcomes. To identify viable therapeutic targets, a comprehensive understanding of intratumoral heterogeneity is crucial. In this study, we conducted bioinformatic analysis to scrutinize single-cell RNA sequencing data of ccRCC tumor and para-tumor samples, aiming to elucidate the intratumoral heterogeneity in the ccRCC tumor microenvironment (TME). Methods: A total of 51,780 single cells from seven ccRCC tumors and five para-tumor samples were identified and grouped into 11 cell lineages using bioinformatic analysis. These lineages included tumor cells, myeloid cells, T-cells, fibroblasts, and endothelial cells, indicating a high degree of heterogeneity in the TME. Copy number variation (CNV) analysis was performed to compare CNV frequencies between tumor and normal cells. The myeloid cell population was further re-clustered into three major subgroups: monocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells. Differential expression analysis, gene ontology, and gene set enrichment analysis were employed to assess inter-cluster and intra-cluster functional heterogeneity within the ccRCC TME. Results: Our findings revealed that immune cells in the TME predominantly adopted an inflammatory suppression state, promoting tumor cell growth and immune evasion. Additionally, tumor cells exhibited higher CNV frequencies compared to normal cells. The myeloid cell subgroups demonstrated distinct functional properties, with monocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells displaying diverse roles in the TME. Certain immune cells exhibited pro-tumor and immunosuppressive effects, while others demonstrated antitumor and immunostimulatory properties. Conclusion: This study contributes to the understanding of intratumoral heterogeneity in the ccRCC TME and provides potential therapeutic targets for ccRCC treatment. The findings emphasize the importance of considering the diverse functional roles of immune cells in the TME for effective therapeutic interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuxiong Wang
- Department of Urology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin, China
| | - Yishu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Ministry of Education, Jilin University, Jilin, China
| | - Bin Liu
- Department of Urology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin, China
| | - Xin Gao
- Department of Urology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin, China
| | - Yunkuo Li
- Department of Urology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin, China
| | - Faping Li
- Department of Urology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin, China
| | - Honglan Zhou
- Department of Urology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin, China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Dong G, Chen P, Xu Y, Liu T, Yin R. Cancer-associated fibroblasts: Key criminals of tumor pre-metastatic niche. Cancer Lett 2023; 566:216234. [PMID: 37236390 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2023.216234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 05/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are abundant and important components of the tumour mesenchyme, and have been extensively studied for their role in primary tumours. CAFs provide biomechanical support for tumour cells and play key roles in immunosuppression and tumour metastasis. CAFs can promote epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of the primary tumour by secreting extracellular vesicles (EVs), increasing adhesion to tumour cells, remodelling the extracellular matrix (ECM) of the primary tumour, and changing its mechanical stiffness, which provides a pathway for tumour metastasis. Moreover, CAFs can form cell clusters with circulating tumour cells (CTCs) to help them resist blood shear forces and achieve colonisation of distant host organs. Recent studies have revealed their roles in pre-metastatic niche (PMN) formation and prevention. In this review, we discuss the role of CAFs in PMN formation and therapeutic interventions targeting PMN and CAFs to prevent metastasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guozhang Dong
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular and Translational Cancer Research, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Nanjing Medical University Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, 21009, Nanjing, China; The Fourth Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, 21009, Nanjing, China
| | - Peng Chen
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular and Translational Cancer Research, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Nanjing Medical University Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, 21009, Nanjing, China; The Fourth Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, 21009, Nanjing, China
| | - Youtao Xu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular and Translational Cancer Research, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Nanjing Medical University Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, 21009, Nanjing, China.
| | - Tongyan Liu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular and Translational Cancer Research, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Nanjing Medical University Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, 21009, Nanjing, China; Department of Scientific Research, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research & the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular and Translational Cancer Research, Nanjing, China.
| | - Rong Yin
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular and Translational Cancer Research, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Nanjing Medical University Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, 21009, Nanjing, China; Department of Scientific Research, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research & the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular and Translational Cancer Research, Nanjing, China; Jiangsu Biobank of Clinical Resources, Nanjing, 210009, China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, 211116, Nanjing, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Li Z, Qi J, Guo T, Li J. Research progress of Astragalus membranaceus in treating peritoneal metastatic cancer. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 305:116086. [PMID: 36587879 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2022.116086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Peritoneal metastasis is a manifestation of advanced cancer often associated with a poor prognosis and poor response to treatment. Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch.) Bunge is a commonly used medicinal material in traditional Chinese medicine with various biological activities. In patients with cancer, Astragalus membranaceus has demonstrated anti-tumor effects, immune regulation, postoperative recurrence and metastasis prevention, and survival prolongation. AIM OF THE STUDY Peritoneal metastasis results from tumor cell and peritoneal microenvironment co-evolution. We aimed to introduce and discuss the specific mechanism of action of Astragalus membranaceus in peritoneal metastasis treatment to provide a new perspective for treatment and further research. MATERIALS AND METHODS We consulted reports on the anti-peritoneal metastases effects of Astragalus membranaceus from PubMed, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and Wanfang databases, as well as Google Scholar. Meanwhile, we also obtained data from published medical works and doctoral and master's theses. Then, we focused on the research progress of Astragalus membranaceus in peritoneal metastatic cancer treatment. Plant names are provided in accordance with "The Plant List" (www.theplantlist.org). RESULTS To date, more than 200 compounds have been isolated from Astragalus membranaceus. Among them, Astragalus polysaccharides, saponins, and flavonoids are the main bioactive components, and their effects on cancer have been extensively studied. In this review, we systematically summarize the effects of Astragalus membranaceus on the peritoneal metastasis microenvironment and related mechanisms, including maintaining the integrity of peritoneal mesothelial cells, restoring the peritoneal immune microenvironment, and inhibiting the formation of tumor blood vessels, matrix metalloproteinase, and dense tumor spheroids. CONCLUSIONS Our analysis demonstrates that Astragalus membranaceus could be a potential therapeutic for preventing the occurrence of peritoneal metastasis. However, it might be too early to recommend its use owing to the paucity of reliable in vivo experiment, clinical data, and evidence of clinical efficacy. In addition, previous studies of Astragalus membranaceus report inconsistent and contradictory findings. Therefore, detailed in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies on the mechanism of Astragalus membranaceus in peritoneal metastatic cancer treatment are warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyuan Li
- The First School of Clinical Medical, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730030, China
| | - Jinfeng Qi
- The First School of Clinical Medical, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730030, China
| | - Tiankang Guo
- Department of General Surgery, Gansu Provincial Hospital, Lanzhou, 730030, China
| | - Junliang Li
- Department of General Surgery, Gansu Provincial Hospital, Lanzhou, 730030, China; The First School of Clinical Medical, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730030, China; The First School of Clinical Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730030, China.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Molczyk C, Singh RK. CXCR1: A Cancer Stem Cell Marker and Therapeutic Target in Solid Tumors. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11020576. [PMID: 36831112 PMCID: PMC9953306 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11020576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Therapy resistance is a significant concern while treating malignant disease. Accumulating evidence suggests that a subset of cancer cells potentiates tumor survival, therapy resistance, and relapse. Several different pathways regulate these purported cancer stem cells (CSCs). Evidence shows that the inflammatory tumor microenvironment plays a crucial role in maintaining the cancer stem cell pool. Typically, in the case of the tumor microenvironment, inflammatory pathways can be utilized by the tumor to aid in tumor progression; one such pathway is the CXCR1/2 pathway. The CXCR1 and CXCR2 receptors are intricately related, with CXCR1 binding two ligands that also bind CXCR2. They have the same downstream pathways but potentially separate roles in the tumor microenvironment. CXCR1 is becoming more well known for its role as a cancer stem cell identifier and therapeutic target. This review elucidates the role of the CXCR1 axis as a CSC marker in several solid tumors and discusses the utility of CXCR1 as a therapeutic target.
Collapse
|