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Krieg S, Fernandes SI, Kolliopoulos C, Liu M, Fendt SM. Metabolic Signaling in Cancer Metastasis. Cancer Discov 2024; 14:934-952. [PMID: 38592405 PMCID: PMC7616057 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-24-0174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
Metastases, which are the leading cause of death in patients with cancer, have metabolic vulnerabilities. Alterations in metabolism fuel the energy and biosynthetic needs of metastases but are also needed to activate cell state switches in cells leading to invasion, migration, colonization, and outgrowth in distant organs. Specifically, metabolites can activate protein kinases as well as receptors and they are crucial substrates for posttranslational modifications on histone and nonhistone proteins. Moreover, metabolic enzymes can have moonlighting functions by acting catalytically, mainly as protein kinases, or noncatalytically through protein-protein interactions. Here, we summarize the current knowledge on metabolic signaling in cancer metastasis. SIGNIFICANCE Effective drugs for the prevention and treatment of metastases will have an immediate impact on patient survival. To overcome the current lack of such drugs, a better understanding of the molecular processes that are an Achilles heel in metastasizing cancer cells is needed. One emerging opportunity is the metabolic changes cancer cells need to undergo to successfully metastasize and grow in distant organs. Mechanistically, these metabolic changes not only fulfill energy and biomass demands, which are often in common between cancer and normal but fast proliferating cells, but also metabolic signaling which enables the cell state changes that are particularly important for the metastasizing cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Krieg
- Laboratory of Cellular Metabolism and Metabolic Regulation, VIB-KU Leuven Center for Cancer Biology, VIB, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Cellular Metabolism and Metabolic Regulation, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven and Leuven Cancer Institute (LKI), Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sara Isabel Fernandes
- Laboratory of Cellular Metabolism and Metabolic Regulation, VIB-KU Leuven Center for Cancer Biology, VIB, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Cellular Metabolism and Metabolic Regulation, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven and Leuven Cancer Institute (LKI), Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Constantinos Kolliopoulos
- Laboratory of Cellular Metabolism and Metabolic Regulation, VIB-KU Leuven Center for Cancer Biology, VIB, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Cellular Metabolism and Metabolic Regulation, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven and Leuven Cancer Institute (LKI), Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ming Liu
- Laboratory of Cellular Metabolism and Metabolic Regulation, VIB-KU Leuven Center for Cancer Biology, VIB, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Cellular Metabolism and Metabolic Regulation, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven and Leuven Cancer Institute (LKI), Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sarah-Maria Fendt
- Laboratory of Cellular Metabolism and Metabolic Regulation, VIB-KU Leuven Center for Cancer Biology, VIB, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Cellular Metabolism and Metabolic Regulation, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven and Leuven Cancer Institute (LKI), Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
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2
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González-Cota AL, Martínez-Flores D, Rosendo-Pineda MJ, Vaca L. NMDA receptor-mediated Ca 2+ signaling: Impact on cell cycle regulation and the development of neurodegenerative diseases and cancer. Cell Calcium 2024; 119:102856. [PMID: 38408411 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceca.2024.102856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
NMDA receptors are Ca2+-permeable ligand-gated ion channels that mediate fast excitatory transmission in the central nervous system. NMDA receptors regulate the proliferation and differentiation of neural progenitor cells and also play critical roles in neural plasticity, memory, and learning. In addition to their physiological role, NMDA receptors are also involved in glutamate-mediated excitotoxicity, which results from excessive glutamate stimulation, leading to Ca2+ overload, and ultimately to neuronal death. Thus, NMDA receptor-mediated excitotoxicity has been linked to several neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, Huntington's, dementia, and stroke. Interestingly, in addition to its effects on cell death, aberrant expression or activation of NMDA receptors is also involved in pathological cellular proliferation, and is implicated in the invasion and proliferation of various types of cancer. These disorders are thought to be related to the contribution of NMDA receptors to cell proliferation and cell death through cell cycle modulation. This review aims to discuss the evidence implicating NMDA receptor activity in cell cycle regulation and the link between aberrant NMDA receptor activity and the development of neurodegenerative diseases and cancer due to cell cycle dysregulation. The information presented here will provide insights into the signaling pathways and the contribution of NMDA receptors to these diseases, and suggests that NMDA receptors are promising targets for the prevention and treatment of these diseases, which are leading causes of death and disability worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana L González-Cota
- Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Departamento de Biología Celular y Desarrollo, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, Coyoacán, Ciudad de México, 04510, Mexico
| | - Daniel Martínez-Flores
- Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Departamento de Biología Celular y Desarrollo, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, Coyoacán, Ciudad de México, 04510, Mexico
| | - Margarita Jacaranda Rosendo-Pineda
- Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, Coyoacán, Ciudad de México, 04510, Mexico
| | - Luis Vaca
- Instituto de Fisiología Celular, Departamento de Biología Celular y Desarrollo, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, Coyoacán, Ciudad de México, 04510, Mexico.
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3
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Xu Q, Cao Y, Kong F, Liu J, Chen X, Zhao Y, Lai CH, Zhou X, Hu H, Fu W, Chen J, Yang J. Multiple cancer cell types release LIF and Gal3 to hijack neural signals. Cell Res 2024; 34:345-354. [PMID: 38467743 PMCID: PMC11061112 DOI: 10.1038/s41422-024-00946-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Neural signals can significantly influence cancer prognosis. However, how cancer cells may proactively modulate the nervous system to benefit their own survival is incompletely understood. In this study, we report an overlapping pattern of brain responses, including that in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus, in multiple mouse models of peripheral cancers. A multi-omic screening then identifies leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) and galectin-3 (Gal3) as the key cytokines released by these cancer cell types to trigger brain activation. Importantly, increased plasma levels of these two cytokines are observed in patients with different cancers. We further demonstrate that pharmacologic or genetic blockage of cancer cell-derived LIF or Gal3 signaling abolishes the brain responses and strongly inhibits tumor growth. In addition, ablation of peripheral sympathetic actions can similarly restore antitumor immunity. These results have elucidated a novel, shared mechanism of multiple cancer cell types hijacking the nervous system to promote tumor progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qun Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Cao
- Center for Life Sciences, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Fanni Kong
- Center for Life Sciences, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Jiaqi Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Xin Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yifei Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Chin-Hui Lai
- Department of Urology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xin Zhou
- Department of General Surgery, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- Peking University Third Hospital Cancer Center, Beijing, China
| | - Hao Hu
- Department of Urology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Fu
- Department of General Surgery, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
- Peking University Third Hospital Cancer Center, Beijing, China
| | - Jian Chen
- Chinese Institute for Brain Research, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China.
- Center for Life Sciences, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, Beijing, China.
- Peking University Third Hospital Cancer Center, Beijing, China.
- IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Peking University, Beijing, China.
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4
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Zhang D, Chen H, Wang J, Ji J, Imam M, Zhang Z, Yan S. Current progress and prospects for G protein-coupled estrogen receptor in triple-negative breast cancer. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1338448. [PMID: 38476263 PMCID: PMC10928007 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1338448] [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: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a biologically and clinically heterogeneous disease. The G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) plays a crucial role in mediating the effect of estrogen and estrogen-like compounds in TNBC cells. Compared with other subtypes, GPER has a higher expression in TNBC. The GPER mechanisms have been thoroughly characterized and analyzed in estrogen receptor α (ERα) positive breast cancer, but not in TNBC. Our previous work revealed that a higher expression of GPER mRNA indicates a better prognosis for ERα-positive breast cancer; however, its effects in TNBC differ. Whether GPER could serve as a predictive prognostic marker or therapeutic target for TNBC remains unclear. In this review, we provide a detailed introduction to the subcellular localization of GPER, the different effects of various ligands, and the interactions between GPER and closely associated factors in TNBC. We focused on the internal molecular mechanisms specific to TNBC and thoroughly explored the role of GPER in promoting tumor development. We also discussed the interaction of GPER with specific cytokines and chemokines, and the relationship between GPER and immune evasion. Additionally, we discussed the feasibility of using GPER as a therapeutic target in the context of existing studies. This comprehensive review highlights the effects of GPER on TNBC, providing a framework and directions for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Shunchao Yan
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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5
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Ciriello G, Magnani L, Aitken SJ, Akkari L, Behjati S, Hanahan D, Landau DA, Lopez-Bigas N, Lupiáñez DG, Marine JC, Martin-Villalba A, Natoli G, Obenauf AC, Oricchio E, Scaffidi P, Sottoriva A, Swarbrick A, Tonon G, Vanharanta S, Zuber J. Cancer Evolution: A Multifaceted Affair. Cancer Discov 2024; 14:36-48. [PMID: 38047596 PMCID: PMC10784746 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-23-0530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Cancer cells adapt and survive through the acquisition and selection of molecular modifications. This process defines cancer evolution. Building on a theoretical framework based on heritable genetic changes has provided insights into the mechanisms supporting cancer evolution. However, cancer hallmarks also emerge via heritable nongenetic mechanisms, including epigenetic and chromatin topological changes, and interactions between tumor cells and the tumor microenvironment. Recent findings on tumor evolutionary mechanisms draw a multifaceted picture where heterogeneous forces interact and influence each other while shaping tumor progression. A comprehensive characterization of the cancer evolutionary toolkit is required to improve personalized medicine and biomarker discovery. SIGNIFICANCE Tumor evolution is fueled by multiple enabling mechanisms. Importantly, genetic instability, epigenetic reprogramming, and interactions with the tumor microenvironment are neither alternative nor independent evolutionary mechanisms. As demonstrated by findings highlighted in this perspective, experimental and theoretical approaches must account for multiple evolutionary mechanisms and their interactions to ultimately understand, predict, and steer tumor evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Ciriello
- Swiss Cancer Center Leman, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Computational Biology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Luca Magnani
- The Breast Cancer Now Toby Robins Research Centre, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
- Breast Epigenetic Plasticity and Evolution Laboratory, Division of Breast Cancer Research, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah J. Aitken
- Medical Research Council Toxicology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Department of Histopathology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Leila Akkari
- Division of Tumor Biology and Immunology, Oncode Institute, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Sam Behjati
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Hinxton, United Kingdom
- Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Douglas Hanahan
- Swiss Cancer Center Leman, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Dan A. Landau
- New York Genome Center, New York, New York
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine and Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
- Institute for Computational Biomedicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Nuria Lopez-Bigas
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en Cáncer (CIBERONC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Darío G. Lupiáñez
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin Institute for Medical Systems Biology, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jean-Christophe Marine
- Laboratory for Molecular Cancer Biology, Center for Cancer Biology, VIB, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory for Molecular Cancer Biology, Department of Oncology, KULeuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ana Martin-Villalba
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, German Cancer Research Center (DFKZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Gioacchino Natoli
- Department of Experimental Oncology, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna C. Obenauf
- Research Institute of Molecular Pathology, Vienna Biocenter, Vienna, Austria
| | - Elisa Oricchio
- Swiss Cancer Center Leman, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Swiss Institute for Experimental Cancer Research (ISREC), School of Life Sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Paola Scaffidi
- Department of Experimental Oncology, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
- Cancer Epigenetic Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Andrea Sottoriva
- Computational Biology Research Centre, Human Technopole, Milan, Italy
| | - Alexander Swarbrick
- Cancer Ecosystems Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Giovanni Tonon
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
- Center for Omics Sciences, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Sakari Vanharanta
- Translational Cancer Medicine Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Biochemistry and Developmental Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Johannes Zuber
- Research Institute of Molecular Pathology, Vienna Biocenter, Vienna, Austria
- Medical University of Vienna, Vienna BioCenter (VBC), Vienna, Austria
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6
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Lan Y, Zou S, Wang W, Chen Q, Zhu Y. Progress in cancer neuroscience. MedComm (Beijing) 2023; 4:e431. [PMID: 38020711 PMCID: PMC10665600 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.431] [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: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer of the central nervous system (CNS) can crosstalk systemically and locally in the tumor microenvironment and has become a topic of attention for tumor initiation and advancement. Recently studied neuronal and cancer interaction fundamentally altered the knowledge about glioma and metastases, indicating how cancers invade complex neuronal networks. This review systematically discussed the interactions between neurons and cancers and elucidates new therapeutic avenues. We have overviewed the current understanding of direct or indirect communications of neuronal cells with cancer and the mechanisms associated with cancer invasion. Besides, tumor-associated neuronal dysfunction and the influence of cancer therapies on the CNS are highlighted. Furthermore, interactions between peripheral nervous system and various cancers have also been discussed separately. Intriguingly and importantly, it cannot be ignored that exosomes could mediate the "wireless communications" between nervous system and cancer. Finally, promising future strategies targeting neuronal-brain tumor interactions were reviewed. A great deal of work remains to be done to elucidate the neuroscience of cancer, and future more research should be directed toward clarifying the precise mechanisms of cancer neuroscience, which hold enormous promise to improve outcomes for a wide range of malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu‐Long Lan
- Department of NeurosurgerySecond Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang UniversityHangzhouZhejiangChina
- Key Laboratory of Precise Treatment and Clinical Translational Research of Neurological DiseasesHangzhouZhejiangChina
- Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhouChina
| | - Shuang Zou
- Key Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Translational Medicine of Zhejiang Province, School of Pharmaceutical ScienceZhejiang Chinese Medical UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Wen Wang
- Department of NeurosurgeryBeijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Qi Chen
- Key Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Translational Medicine of Zhejiang Province, School of Pharmaceutical ScienceZhejiang Chinese Medical UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Yongjian Zhu
- Department of NeurosurgerySecond Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang UniversityHangzhouZhejiangChina
- Key Laboratory of Precise Treatment and Clinical Translational Research of Neurological DiseasesHangzhouZhejiangChina
- Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhouChina
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7
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Pedini G, Chen CL, Achsel T, Bagni C. Cancer drug repurposing in autism spectrum disorder. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2023; 44:963-977. [PMID: 37940430 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2023.09.008] [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: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition with uncertain origins. Understanding of the mechanisms underlying ASD remains limited, and treatments are lacking. Genetic diversity complicates drug development. Given the complexity and severity of ASD symptoms and the rising number of diagnoses, exploring novel therapeutic strategies is essential. Here, we focus on shared molecular pathways between ASD and cancer and highlight recent progress on the repurposing of cancer drugs for ASD treatment, such as mTOR inhibitors, histone deacetylase inhibitors, and anti-inflammatory agents. We discuss how to improve trial design considering drug dose and patient age. Lastly, the discussion explores the critical aspects of side effects, commercial factors, and the efficiency of drug-screening pipelines; all of which are essential considerations in the pursuit of repurposing cancer drugs for addressing core features of ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgia Pedini
- University of Rome Tor Vergata, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Via Montpellier 1, 00133, Rome, Italy
| | - Chin-Lin Chen
- University of Lausanne, Department of Fundamental Neurosciences, Rue du Bugnon 9, 1005, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Tilmann Achsel
- University of Lausanne, Department of Fundamental Neurosciences, Rue du Bugnon 9, 1005, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Claudia Bagni
- University of Rome Tor Vergata, Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Via Montpellier 1, 00133, Rome, Italy; University of Lausanne, Department of Fundamental Neurosciences, Rue du Bugnon 9, 1005, Lausanne, Switzerland.
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8
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Yuan D, Hu J, Ju X, Putz EM, Zheng S, Koda S, Sun G, Deng X, Xu Z, Nie W, Zhao Y, Li X, Dougall WC, Shao S, Chen Y, Tang R, Zheng K, Yan J. NMDAR antagonists suppress tumor progression by regulating tumor-associated macrophages. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2302126120. [PMID: 37967215 PMCID: PMC10666127 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2302126120] [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: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurotransmitter receptors are increasingly recognized to play important roles in anti-tumor immunity. The expression of the ion channel N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) on macrophages was reported, but the role of NMDAR on macrophages in the tumor microenvironment (TME) remains unknown. Here, we show that the activation of NMDAR triggered calcium influx and reactive oxygen species production, which fueled immunosuppressive activities in tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) in the hepatocellular sarcoma and fibrosarcoma tumor settings. NMDAR antagonists, MK-801, memantine, and magnesium, effectively suppressed these processes in TAMs. Single-cell RNA sequencing analysis revealed that blocking NMDAR functionally and metabolically altered TAM phenotypes, such that they could better promote T cell- and Natural killer (NK) cell-mediated anti-tumor immunity. Treatment with NMDAR antagonists in combination with anti-PD-1 antibody led to the elimination of the majority of established preclinical liver tumors. Thus, our study uncovered an unknown role for NMDAR in regulating macrophages in the TME of hepatocellular sarcoma and provided a rationale for targeting NMDAR for tumor immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongchen Yuan
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu221004, China
| | - Jing Hu
- Department of Bioinformatics, School of Life Sciences, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu221004, China
- Department of Genetics, Xuzhou Engineering Research Center of Medical Genetics and Transformation, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu221004, China
| | - Xiaoman Ju
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu221004, China
| | - Eva Maria Putz
- St. Anna Children's Cancer Research Institute, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna1210, Austria
| | - Simin Zheng
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu221004, China
| | - Stephane Koda
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu221004, China
| | - Guowei Sun
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu221004, China
| | - Xiaoran Deng
- Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory in Anesthesiology, School of Anesthesiology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu221004, China
| | - Zhipeng Xu
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Jiangsu Province Key Laboratory of Modern Pathogen Biology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu211166, China
| | - Wei Nie
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Shanghai Chest Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai200240, China
| | - Yang Zhao
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Pharmacology and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Materia Medica, School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu210023, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine and Holistic Integrative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu210023, China
| | - Xianyang Li
- Department of Research and Development, OriCell Therapeutics Co. Ltd, Shanghai200131, China
| | - William C. Dougall
- Translational Oncology Discovery Group, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane4702, Australia
| | - Simin Shao
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu221004, China
| | - Yan Chen
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu221004, China
| | - Renxian Tang
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu221004, China
| | - Kuiyang Zheng
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu221004, China
| | - Juming Yan
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu221004, China
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9
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Caredda E, Pedini G, D'Amico F, Scioli MG, Pacini L, Orsaria P, Vanni G, Buonomo OC, Orlandi A, Bagni C, Palombi L. FMRP expression in primary breast tumor cells correlates with recurrence and specific site of metastasis. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0287062. [PMID: 37379311 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0287062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide. Molecular and clinical evidence indicated that Fragile X Messenger Ribonucleoprotein 1 (FMRP) plays a role in different types of cancer, including breast cancer. FMRP is an RNA binding protein that regulates the metabolism of a large group of mRNAs coding for proteins involved in both neural processes and in epithelial-mesenchymal transition, a pivotal mechanism that in cancer is associated to tumor progression, aggressiveness and chemoresistance. Here, we carried out a retrospective case-control study of 127 patients, to study the expression of FMRP and its correlation with metastasis formation in breast cancer. Consistent with previous findings, we found that FMRP levels are high in tumor tissue. Two categories have been analyzed, tumor with no metastases (referred as control tumors, 84 patients) and tumor with distant metastatic repetition, (referred as cases, 43 patients), with a follow-up of 7 years (mean). We found that FMRP levels were lower in both the nuclei and the cytoplasm in the cases compared to control tumors. Next, within the category cases (tumor with metastases) we evaluated FMRP expression in the specific sites of metastasis revealing a nuclear staining of FMRP. In addition, FMRP expression in both the nuclear and cytoplasmic compartment was significantly lower in patients who developed brain and bone metastases and higher in hepatic and pulmonary sites. While further studies are required to explore the underlying molecular mechanisms of FMRP expression and direct or inverse correlation with the secondary metastatic site, our findings suggest that FMRP levels might be considered a prognostic factor for site-specific metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Caredda
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
- Directorate-General for Health Prevention, Ministry of Health, Rome, Italy
| | - G Pedini
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - F D'Amico
- Anatomic Pathology, Department Biomedicine and Prevention, Faculty of Medicine, Tor Vergata University Hospital, Rome, Italy
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Niguarda Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - M G Scioli
- Anatomic Pathology, Department Biomedicine and Prevention, Faculty of Medicine, Tor Vergata University Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - L Pacini
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
- UniCamillus, Saint Camillus International, Faculty of Medicine, University of Health and Medical Sciences, Rome, Italy
| | - P Orsaria
- Department of Breast Surgery, University Campus Bio-Medico, Rome, Italy
| | - G Vanni
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Tor Vergata University Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - O C Buonomo
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Tor Vergata University Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - A Orlandi
- Anatomic Pathology, Department Biomedicine and Prevention, Faculty of Medicine, Tor Vergata University Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - C Bagni
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
- Department of Fundamental Neurosciences (DNF), Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - L Palombi
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
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10
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Zhang Y, Wu T, Han J. Targeting FMRP: A new window for cancer immunotherapy. MedComm (Beijing) 2023; 4:e233. [PMID: 36968189 PMCID: PMC10030685 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 01/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2023] Open
Abstract
FMRP is regulated by Myc and is highly expressed in a variety of human and mouse tumor tissues.FMRP recruits Treg and M2 macrophages to form an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment by IL3, PROS1 and exosomes.FMRP-KO up-regulates tumor cell secretion of CCL7, which directly activates and recruits CD8+ T cells.FMRP-KO recruits CCR5 and CXCR4 receptor-positive CD8 T cells indirectly by promoting M1 macrophages to secrete CCL5, CXCL9, and CXCL10.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaguang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, and Frontiers Science Center for Disease‐Related Molecular NetworkWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduP. R. China
| | - Tong Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, and Frontiers Science Center for Disease‐Related Molecular NetworkWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduP. R. China
| | - Junhong Han
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, and Frontiers Science Center for Disease‐Related Molecular NetworkWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduP. R. China
- Research Laboratory of Cancer Epigenetics and GenomicsWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduP. R. China
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11
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Hanahan D, Monje M. Cancer hallmarks intersect with neuroscience in the tumor microenvironment. Cancer Cell 2023; 41:573-580. [PMID: 36917953 PMCID: PMC10202656 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccell.2023.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
The mechanisms underlying the multistep process of tumorigenesis can be distilled into a logical framework involving the acquisition of functional capabilities, the so-called hallmarks of cancer, which are collectively envisaged to be necessary for malignancy. These capabilities, embodied both in transformed cancer cells as well as in the heterotypic accessory cells that together constitute the tumor microenvironment (TME), are conveyed by certain abnormal characteristics of the cancerous phenotype. This perspective discusses the link between the nervous system and the induction of hallmark capabilities, revealing neurons and neuronal projections (axons) as hallmark-inducing constituents of the TME. We also discuss the autocrine and paracrine neuronal regulatory circuits aberrantly activated in cancer cells that may constitute a distinctive "enabling" characteristic contributing to the manifestation of hallmark functions and consequent cancer pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas Hanahan
- Lausanne Branch, Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland; Agora Cancer Research Center, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland; Swiss Institute for Experimental Cancer Research (ISREC), School of Life Sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland; Swiss Cancer Center, Leman (SCCL), 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Michelle Monje
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, Stanford, CA, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
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12
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de Visser KE, Joyce JA. The evolving tumor microenvironment: From cancer initiation to metastatic outgrowth. Cancer Cell 2023; 41:374-403. [PMID: 36917948 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccell.2023.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 534] [Impact Index Per Article: 534.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 01/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
Cancers represent complex ecosystems comprising tumor cells and a multitude of non-cancerous cells, embedded in an altered extracellular matrix. The tumor microenvironment (TME) includes diverse immune cell types, cancer-associated fibroblasts, endothelial cells, pericytes, and various additional tissue-resident cell types. These host cells were once considered bystanders of tumorigenesis but are now known to play critical roles in the pathogenesis of cancer. The cellular composition and functional state of the TME can differ extensively depending on the organ in which the tumor arises, the intrinsic features of cancer cells, the tumor stage, and patient characteristics. Here, we review the importance of the TME in each stage of cancer progression, from tumor initiation, progression, invasion, and intravasation to metastatic dissemination and outgrowth. Understanding the complex interplay between tumor cell-intrinsic, cell-extrinsic, and systemic mediators of disease progression is critical for the rational development of effective anti-cancer treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin E de Visser
- Division of Tumor Biology and Immunology, Oncode Institute, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, 1066 CX Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Immunology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, the Netherlands.
| | - Johanna A Joyce
- Department of Oncology, University of Lausanne, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland; Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland; Agora Cancer Center Lausanne, and Swiss Cancer Center Léman, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland.
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13
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NMDA Receptor and Its Emerging Role in Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032540. [PMID: 36768862 PMCID: PMC9917092 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Glutamate is a key player in excitatory neurotransmission in the central nervous system (CNS). The N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) is a glutamate-gated ion channel which presents several unique features and is involved in various physiological and pathological neuronal processes. Thanks to great efforts in neuroscience, its structure and the molecular mechanisms controlling its localization and functional regulation in neuronal cells are well known. The signaling mediated by NMDAR in neurons is very complex as it depends on its localization, composition, Ca2+ influx, and ion flow-independent conformational changes. Moreover, NMDA receptors are highly diffusive in the plasma membrane of neurons, where they form heterocomplexes with other membrane receptors and scaffold proteins which determine the receptor function and activation of downstream signaling. Interestingly, a recent paper demonstrates that NMDAR signaling is involved in epithelial cell competition, an evolutionary conserved cell fitness process influencing cancer initiation and progress. The idea that NMDAR signaling is limited to CNS has been challenged in the past two decades. A large body of evidence suggests that NMDAR is expressed in cancer cells outside the CNS and can respond to the autocrine/paracrine release of glutamate. In this review, we survey research on NMDAR signaling and regulation in neurons that can help illuminate its role in tumor biology. Finally, we will discuss existing data on the role of the glutamine/glutamate metabolism, the anticancer action of NMDAR antagonists in experimental models, NMDAR synaptic signaling in tumors, and clinical evidence in human cancer.
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14
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Zeng Q, Saghafinia S, Chryplewicz A, Fournier N, Christe L, Xie YQ, Guillot J, Yucel S, Li P, Galván JA, Karamitopoulou E, Zlobec I, Ataca D, Gallean F, Zhang P, Rodriguez-Calero JA, Rubin M, Tichet M, Homicsko K, Hanahan D. Aberrant hyperexpression of the RNA binding protein FMRP in tumors mediates immune evasion. Science 2022; 378:eabl7207. [DOI: 10.1126/science.abl7207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Many human cancers manifest the capability to circumvent attack by the adaptive immune system. In this work, we identified a component of immune evasion that involves frequent up-regulation of fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP) in solid tumors. FMRP represses immune attack, as revealed by cancer cells engineered to lack its expression. FMRP-deficient tumors were infiltrated by activated T cells that impaired tumor growth and enhanced survival in mice. Mechanistically, FMRP’s immunosuppression was multifactorial, involving repression of the chemoattractant C-C motif chemokine ligand 7 (CCL7) concomitant with up-regulation of three immunomodulators—interleukin-33 (IL-33), tumor-secreted protein S (PROS1), and extracellular vesicles. Gene signatures associate FMRP’s cancer network with poor prognosis and response to therapy in cancer patients. Collectively, FMRP is implicated as a regulator that orchestrates a multifaceted barrier to antitumor immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiqun Zeng
- Swiss Institute for Experimental Cancer Research (ISREC), School of Life Sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Opna Bio SA, Biopole, 1066 Epalinges, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Sadegh Saghafinia
- Swiss Institute for Experimental Cancer Research (ISREC), School of Life Sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Opna Bio SA, Biopole, 1066 Epalinges, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Agnieszka Chryplewicz
- Swiss Institute for Experimental Cancer Research (ISREC), School of Life Sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Agora Cancer Research Center, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Nadine Fournier
- Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics (SIB), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Lucine Christe
- Institute of Pathology, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Yu-Qing Xie
- Institute of Bioengineering, School of Engineering, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Jeremy Guillot
- Swiss Institute for Experimental Cancer Research (ISREC), School of Life Sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Agora Cancer Research Center, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Simge Yucel
- Swiss Institute for Experimental Cancer Research (ISREC), School of Life Sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Agora Cancer Research Center, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Pumin Li
- Swiss Institute for Experimental Cancer Research (ISREC), School of Life Sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Agora Cancer Research Center, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Computational Biology, University of Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - José A. Galván
- Institute of Pathology, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Inti Zlobec
- Institute of Pathology, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Dalya Ataca
- Opna Bio SA, Biopole, 1066 Epalinges, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | - Peng Zhang
- Beijing Pediatric Research Institute, Beijing Children’s Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Center for Children’s Health, Beijing 100045, China
| | | | - Mark Rubin
- Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, 3008 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Mélanie Tichet
- Swiss Institute for Experimental Cancer Research (ISREC), School of Life Sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Agora Cancer Research Center, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Lausanne Branch, Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Krisztian Homicsko
- Swiss Institute for Experimental Cancer Research (ISREC), School of Life Sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Agora Cancer Research Center, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Lausanne Branch, Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Oncology, University Hospital of Lausanne (CHUV), 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Swiss Cancer Center Leman (SCCL), 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Douglas Hanahan
- Swiss Institute for Experimental Cancer Research (ISREC), School of Life Sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Agora Cancer Research Center, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Lausanne Branch, Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
- Swiss Cancer Center Leman (SCCL), 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
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15
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Abedi-Gaballu F, Kamal Kazemi E, Salehzadeh SA, Mansoori B, Eslami F, Emami A, Dehghan G, Baradaran B, Mansoori B, Cho WC. Metabolic Pathways in Breast Cancer Reprograming: An Insight to Non-Coding RNAs. Cells 2022; 11:cells11192973. [PMID: 36230935 PMCID: PMC9563138 DOI: 10.3390/cells11192973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 09/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer cells reprogram their metabolisms to achieve high energetic requirements and produce precursors that facilitate uncontrolled cell proliferation. Metabolic reprograming involves not only the dysregulation in glucose-metabolizing regulatory enzymes, but also the enzymes engaging in the lipid and amino acid metabolisms. Nevertheless, the underlying regulatory mechanisms of reprograming are not fully understood. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) as functional RNA molecules cannot translate into proteins, but they do play a regulatory role in gene expression. Moreover, ncRNAs have been demonstrated to be implicated in the metabolic modulations in breast cancer (BC) by regulating the metabolic-related enzymes. Here, we will focus on the regulatory involvement of ncRNAs (microRNA, circular RNA and long ncRNA) in BC metabolism, including glucose, lipid and glutamine metabolism. Investigation of this aspect may not only alter the approaches of BC diagnosis and prognosis, but may also open a new avenue in using ncRNA-based therapeutics for BC treatment by targeting different metabolic pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fereydoon Abedi-Gaballu
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz 51666-14731, Iran
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz 51666-16471, Iran
| | - Elham Kamal Kazemi
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz 51666-14731, Iran
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz 51666-16471, Iran
| | - Seyed Ahmad Salehzadeh
- Department of Medicinal Biotechnology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran 175-14115, Iran
| | - Behnaz Mansoori
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran 175-14115, Iran
| | - Farhad Eslami
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz 51666-16471, Iran
| | - Ali Emami
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz 51666-16471, Iran
| | - Gholamreza Dehghan
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz 51666-16471, Iran
| | - Behzad Baradaran
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz 51666-14731, Iran
| | - Behzad Mansoori
- Cellular and Molecular Oncogenesis Program, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Correspondence: (B.M.); (W.C.C.)
| | - William C. Cho
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hong Kong, China
- Correspondence: (B.M.); (W.C.C.)
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16
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Pan C, Winkler F. Insights and opportunities at the crossroads of cancer and neuroscience. Nat Cell Biol 2022; 24:1454-1460. [PMID: 36097070 DOI: 10.1038/s41556-022-00978-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The biological and pathological importance of mutual interactions between the nervous system and cancer have become increasingly evident. The emerging field of cancer neuroscience aims to decipher key signalling factors of cancer-nervous system crosstalk and to exploit these modulators as targets for improved anticancer therapies. Here we discuss the key achievements in cancer neuroscience research, inspire further interactions on a variety of related research topics, and provide a roadmap for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenchen Pan
- Neurology Clinic and National Center for Tumor Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,Clinical Cooperation Unit Neurooncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Frank Winkler
- Neurology Clinic and National Center for Tumor Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany. .,Clinical Cooperation Unit Neurooncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.
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17
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FMRP modulates the Wnt signalling pathway in glioblastoma. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:719. [PMID: 35982038 PMCID: PMC9388540 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-05019-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Converging evidence indicates that the Fragile X Messenger Ribonucleoprotein (FMRP), which absent or mutated in Fragile X Syndrome (FXS), plays a role in many types of cancers. However, while FMRP roles in brain development and function have been extensively studied, its involvement in the biology of brain tumors remains largely unexplored. Here we show, in human glioblastoma (GBM) biopsies, that increased expression of FMRP directly correlates with a worse patient outcome. In contrast, reductions in FMRP correlate with a diminished tumor growth and proliferation of human GBM stem-like cells (GSCs) in vitro in a cell culture model and in vivo in mouse brain GSC xenografts. Consistently, increased FMRP levels promote GSC proliferation. To characterize the mechanism(s) by which FMRP regulates GSC proliferation, we performed GSC transcriptome analyses in GSCs expressing high levels of FMRP, and in these GSCs after knockdown of FMRP. We show that the WNT signalling is the most significantly enriched among the published FMRP target genes and genes involved in ASD. Consistently, we find that reductions in FMRP downregulate both the canonical WNT/β-Catenin and the non-canonical WNT-ERK1/2 signalling pathways, reducing the stability of several key transcription factors (i.e. β-Catenin, CREB and ETS1) previously implicated in the modulation of malignant features of glioma cells. Our findings support a key role for FMRP in GBM cancer progression, acting via regulation of WNT signalling.
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18
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Peng LJ, Zhou YB, Geng M, Bourova-Flin E, Chuffart F, Zhang WN, Wang T, Gao MQ, Xi MP, Cheng ZY, Zhang JJ, Liu YF, Chen B, Khochbin S, Wang J, Rousseaux S, Mi JQ. Ectopic expression of a combination of 5 genes detects high risk forms of T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. BMC Genomics 2022; 23:467. [PMID: 35751016 PMCID: PMC9233359 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-022-08688-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND T cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) defines a group of hematological malignancies with heterogeneous aggressiveness and highly variable outcome, making therapeutic decisions a challenging task. We tried to discover new predictive model for T-ALL before treatment by using a specific pipeline designed to discover aberrantly active gene. RESULTS The expression of 18 genes was significantly associated with shorter survival, including ACTRT2, GOT1L1, SPATA45, TOPAZ1 and ZPBP (5-GEC), which were used as a basis to design a prognostic classifier for T-ALL patients. The molecular characterization of the 5-GEC positive T-ALL unveiled specific characteristics inherent to the most aggressive T leukemic cells, including a drastic shut-down of genes located on the mitochondrial genome and an upregulation of histone genes, the latter characterizing high risk forms in adult patients. These cases fail to respond to the induction treatment, since 5-GEC either predicted positive minimal residual disease (MRD) or a short-term relapse in MRD negative patients. CONCLUSION Overall, our investigations led to the discovery of a homogenous group of leukemic cells with profound alterations of their biology. It also resulted in an accurate predictive tool that could significantly improve the management of T-ALL patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Jun Peng
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Pôle de Recherches Sino-Français en Science du Vivant Et Génomique, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yue-Bo Zhou
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Pôle de Recherches Sino-Français en Science du Vivant Et Génomique, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Mei Geng
- Department of Oncology, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ekaterina Bourova-Flin
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Pôle de Recherches Sino-Français en Science du Vivant Et Génomique, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,UMR 5309, CNRSINSERM U1209Université Grenoble-Alpes/Institute for Advanced Biosciences, La Tronche, France
| | - Florent Chuffart
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Pôle de Recherches Sino-Français en Science du Vivant Et Génomique, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,UMR 5309, CNRSINSERM U1209Université Grenoble-Alpes/Institute for Advanced Biosciences, La Tronche, France
| | - Wei-Na Zhang
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Tao Wang
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Pôle de Recherches Sino-Français en Science du Vivant Et Génomique, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Meng-Qing Gao
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Pôle de Recherches Sino-Français en Science du Vivant Et Génomique, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Meng-Ping Xi
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Pôle de Recherches Sino-Français en Science du Vivant Et Génomique, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | | | - Jiao-Jiao Zhang
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuan-Fang Liu
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Bing Chen
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Saadi Khochbin
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Pôle de Recherches Sino-Français en Science du Vivant Et Génomique, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China. .,UMR 5309, CNRSINSERM U1209Université Grenoble-Alpes/Institute for Advanced Biosciences, La Tronche, France.
| | - Jin Wang
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China. .,Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Pôle de Recherches Sino-Français en Science du Vivant Et Génomique, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Sophie Rousseaux
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Pôle de Recherches Sino-Français en Science du Vivant Et Génomique, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China. .,UMR 5309, CNRSINSERM U1209Université Grenoble-Alpes/Institute for Advanced Biosciences, La Tronche, France.
| | - Jian-Qing Mi
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, National Research Center for Translational Medicine at Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China. .,Laboratory of Molecular Pathology, Pôle de Recherches Sino-Français en Science du Vivant Et Génomique, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
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19
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Li J, Xu Y, Zhu H, Wang Y, Li P, Wang D. The dark side of synaptic proteins in tumours. Br J Cancer 2022; 127:1184-1192. [PMID: 35624299 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-022-01863-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Research in the past decade has uncovered the essential role of the nervous system in the tumour microenvironment. The recent advances in cancer neuroscience, especially the discovery of neuron-tumour synaptic/perisynaptic structures, have revealed the dark side of synaptic proteins in the progression of brain tumours. Here, we provide an overview of the synaptic proteins expressed by tumour cells and analyse their molecular functions and organisation by comparing them with neuronal synaptic proteins. We focus on the studies of neuroligin-3, the glutamate receptors AMPAR and NMDAR and the synaptic scaffold protein DLGAP1, for their newly discovered regulatory role in the proliferation and progression of tumours. Progress in cancer neuroscience has brought novel insights into the treatment of cancers. In the last part of this review, we discuss the therapeutical strategies targeting synaptic proteins and the current challenges and possible toolkits regarding their clinical application in cancer treatment. Our understanding of cancer neuroscience is still in its infancy; deeper investigation of how tumour cells co-opt synaptic signaling will help fulfil the therapeutical potential of the synaptic proteins as promising anti-tumour targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Li
- Institute for Translational Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Medical College, Qingdao University, 266021, Qingdao, China.
| | - Yalan Xu
- Institute for Translational Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Medical College, Qingdao University, 266021, Qingdao, China
| | - Hai Zhu
- Department of Urology, Qingdao Municipal Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, 266011, Qingdao, China
| | - Yin Wang
- Institute for Translational Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Medical College, Qingdao University, 266021, Qingdao, China
| | - Peifeng Li
- Institute for Translational Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Medical College, Qingdao University, 266021, Qingdao, China
| | - Dong Wang
- Institute for Translational Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Medical College, Qingdao University, 266021, Qingdao, China
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20
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Tajima N, Simorowski N, Yovanno RA, Regan MC, Michalski K, Gómez R, Lau AY, Furukawa H. Development and characterization of functional antibodies targeting NMDA receptors. Nat Commun 2022; 13:923. [PMID: 35177668 PMCID: PMC8854693 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-28559-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) are critically involved in basic brain functions and neurodegeneration as well as tumor invasiveness. Targeting specific subtypes of NMDARs with distinct activities has been considered an effective therapeutic strategy for neurological disorders and diseases. However, complete elimination of off-target effects of small chemical compounds has been challenging and thus, there is a need to explore alternative strategies for targeting NMDAR subtypes. Here we report identification of a functional antibody that specifically targets the GluN1-GluN2B NMDAR subtype and allosterically down-regulates ion channel activity as assessed by electrophysiology. Through biochemical analysis, x-ray crystallography, single-particle electron cryomicroscopy, and molecular dynamics simulations, we show that this inhibitory antibody recognizes the amino terminal domain of the GluN2B subunit and increases the population of the non-active conformational state. The current study demonstrates that antibodies may serve as specific reagents to regulate NMDAR functions for basic research and therapeutic objectives. Selective targeting individual subtypes of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) is a desirable therapeutic strategy for neurological disorders. Here, the authors report identification of a functional antibody that specifically targets and allosterically down-regulates ion channel activity of the GluN1—GluN2B NMDAR subtype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nami Tajima
- W.M. Keck Structural Biology Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, New York, NY, 11724, USA
| | - Noriko Simorowski
- W.M. Keck Structural Biology Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, New York, NY, 11724, USA
| | - Remy A Yovanno
- Department of Biophysics and Biophysical Chemistry, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 725 N. Wolfe Street, WBSB 706, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Michael C Regan
- W.M. Keck Structural Biology Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, New York, NY, 11724, USA
| | - Kevin Michalski
- W.M. Keck Structural Biology Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, New York, NY, 11724, USA
| | - Ricardo Gómez
- W.M. Keck Structural Biology Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, New York, NY, 11724, USA
| | - Albert Y Lau
- Department of Biophysics and Biophysical Chemistry, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 725 N. Wolfe Street, WBSB 706, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
| | - Hiro Furukawa
- W.M. Keck Structural Biology Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, New York, NY, 11724, USA.
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21
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Abstract
Nervous system activity regulates development, homeostasis, and plasticity of the brain as well as other organs in the body. These mechanisms are subverted in cancer to propel malignant growth. In turn, cancers modulate neural structure and function to augment growth-promoting neural signaling in the tumor microenvironment. Approaching cancer biology from a neuroscience perspective will elucidate new therapeutic strategies for presently lethal forms of cancer. In this review, we highlight the neural signaling mechanisms recapitulated in primary brain tumors, brain metastases, and solid tumors throughout the body that regulate cancer progression. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Neuroscience, Volume 45 is July 2022. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael B Keough
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA;
| | - Michelle Monje
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA;
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22
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Hanahan D. Hallmarks of Cancer: New Dimensions. Cancer Discov 2022; 12:31-46. [PMID: 35022204 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-21-1059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3296] [Impact Index Per Article: 1648.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Revised: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The hallmarks of cancer conceptualization is a heuristic tool for distilling the vast complexity of cancer phenotypes and genotypes into a provisional set of underlying principles. As knowledge of cancer mechanisms has progressed, other facets of the disease have emerged as potential refinements. Herein, the prospect is raised that phenotypic plasticity and disrupted differentiation is a discrete hallmark capability, and that nonmutational epigenetic reprogramming and polymorphic microbiomes both constitute distinctive enabling characteristics that facilitate the acquisition of hallmark capabilities. Additionally, senescent cells, of varying origins, may be added to the roster of functionally important cell types in the tumor microenvironment. SIGNIFICANCE: Cancer is daunting in the breadth and scope of its diversity, spanning genetics, cell and tissue biology, pathology, and response to therapy. Ever more powerful experimental and computational tools and technologies are providing an avalanche of "big data" about the myriad manifestations of the diseases that cancer encompasses. The integrative concept embodied in the hallmarks of cancer is helping to distill this complexity into an increasingly logical science, and the provisional new dimensions presented in this perspective may add value to that endeavor, to more fully understand mechanisms of cancer development and malignant progression, and apply that knowledge to cancer medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas Hanahan
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research - Lausanne Branch, Lausanne, Switzerland. The Swiss Institute for Experimental Cancer Research (ISREC) within the School of Life Sciences at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland. The Swiss Cancer Center Leman (SCCL), Lausanne, Switzerland.
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23
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Scholz O, Otter S, Welters A, Wörmeyer L, Dolenšek J, Klemen MS, Pohorec V, Eberhard D, Mrugala J, Hamacher A, Koch A, Sanz M, Hoffmann T, Hogeback J, Herebian D, Klöcker N, Piechot A, Mayatepek E, Meissner T, Stožer A, Lammert E. Peripherally active dextromethorphan derivatives lower blood glucose levels by targeting pancreatic islets. Cell Chem Biol 2021; 28:1474-1488.e7. [PMID: 34118188 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2021.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Dextromethorphan (DXM) acts as cough suppressant via its central action. Cell-protective effects of this drug have been reported in peripheral tissues, making DXM potentially useful for treatment of several common human diseases, such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Pancreatic islets are among the peripheral tissues that positively respond to DXM, and anti-diabetic effects of DXM were observed in two placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trials in humans with T2DM. Since these effects were associated with central side effects, we here developed chemical derivatives of DXM that pass the blood-brain barrier to a significantly lower extent than the original drug. We show that basic nitrogen-containing residues block central adverse events of DXM without reducing its anti-diabetic effects, including the protection of human pancreatic islets from cell death. These results show how to chemically modify DXM, and possibly other morphinans, as to exclude central side effects, while targeting peripheral tissues, such as pancreatic islets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Okka Scholz
- Institute for Vascular and Islet Cell Biology, German Diabetes Center (DDZ), Leibniz Center for Diabetes Research at Heinrich Heine University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; Institute of Metabolic Physiology, Heinrich Heine University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; Center of Competence for Innovative Diabetes Therapy (KomIT), German Diabetes Center (DDZ), 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD e.V.), Helmholtz Zentrum München, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Silke Otter
- Institute for Vascular and Islet Cell Biology, German Diabetes Center (DDZ), Leibniz Center for Diabetes Research at Heinrich Heine University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; Institute of Metabolic Physiology, Heinrich Heine University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; Center of Competence for Innovative Diabetes Therapy (KomIT), German Diabetes Center (DDZ), 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Alena Welters
- Institute of Metabolic Physiology, Heinrich Heine University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; Department of General Pediatrics, Neonatology and Pediatric Cardiology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Laura Wörmeyer
- Institute of Metabolic Physiology, Heinrich Heine University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; Department of General Pediatrics, Neonatology and Pediatric Cardiology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Jurij Dolenšek
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, Taborska ulica 8, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia; Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, University of Maribor, Koroška cesta 160, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Maša Skelin Klemen
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, Taborska ulica 8, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Viljem Pohorec
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, Taborska ulica 8, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Daniel Eberhard
- Institute for Vascular and Islet Cell Biology, German Diabetes Center (DDZ), Leibniz Center for Diabetes Research at Heinrich Heine University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; Institute of Metabolic Physiology, Heinrich Heine University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Jessica Mrugala
- Institute for Vascular and Islet Cell Biology, German Diabetes Center (DDZ), Leibniz Center for Diabetes Research at Heinrich Heine University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; Institute of Metabolic Physiology, Heinrich Heine University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD e.V.), Helmholtz Zentrum München, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Anna Hamacher
- Institute for Vascular and Islet Cell Biology, German Diabetes Center (DDZ), Leibniz Center for Diabetes Research at Heinrich Heine University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; Institute of Metabolic Physiology, Heinrich Heine University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Angela Koch
- Institute of Neuro- and Sensory Physiology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Miguel Sanz
- Center of Competence for Innovative Diabetes Therapy (KomIT), German Diabetes Center (DDZ), 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; Taros Chemicals GmbH & Co. KG, 44227 Dortmund, Germany
| | - Torsten Hoffmann
- Center of Competence for Innovative Diabetes Therapy (KomIT), German Diabetes Center (DDZ), 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; Taros Chemicals GmbH & Co. KG, 44227 Dortmund, Germany
| | - Jens Hogeback
- A&M Labor für Analytik und Metabolismusforschung Service GmbH, 50126 Bergheim, Germany
| | - Diran Herebian
- Department of General Pediatrics, Neonatology and Pediatric Cardiology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Nikolaj Klöcker
- Institute of Neuro- and Sensory Physiology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Alexander Piechot
- Center of Competence for Innovative Diabetes Therapy (KomIT), German Diabetes Center (DDZ), 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; Taros Chemicals GmbH & Co. KG, 44227 Dortmund, Germany
| | - Ertan Mayatepek
- Department of General Pediatrics, Neonatology and Pediatric Cardiology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Thomas Meissner
- Department of General Pediatrics, Neonatology and Pediatric Cardiology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Andraž Stožer
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, Taborska ulica 8, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Eckhard Lammert
- Institute for Vascular and Islet Cell Biology, German Diabetes Center (DDZ), Leibniz Center for Diabetes Research at Heinrich Heine University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; Institute of Metabolic Physiology, Heinrich Heine University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; Center of Competence for Innovative Diabetes Therapy (KomIT), German Diabetes Center (DDZ), 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD e.V.), Helmholtz Zentrum München, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany.
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24
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Xu F, Tong M, Tong CSW, Chan BKC, Chu HY, Wong TL, Fong JHC, Cheung MSH, Mak KHM, Pardeshi L, Huang Y, Wong KH, Choi GCG, Ma S, Wong ASL. A combinatorial CRISPR-Cas9 screen identifies ifenprodil as an adjunct to sorafenib for liver cancer treatment. Cancer Res 2021; 81:6219-6232. [PMID: 34666996 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-21-1017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Systematic testing of existing drugs and their combinations is an attractive strategy to exploit approved drugs for repurposing and identify the best actionable treatment options. To expedite the search among many possible drug combinations, we designed a combinatorial CRISPR-Cas9 screen to inhibit druggable targets. Co-blockade of the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) with targets of first-line kinase inhibitors reduced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cell growth. Clinically, HCC patients with low NMDAR1 expression showed better survival. The clinically approved NMDAR antagonist ifenprodil synergized with sorafenib to induce the unfolded protein response, trigger cell cycle arrest, downregulate genes associated with WNT signaling and stemness, and reduce self-renewal ability of HCC cells. In multiple HCC patient-derived organoids and human tumor xenograft models, the drug combination, but neither single drug alone, markedly reduced tumor-initiating cancer cell frequency. Since ifenprodil has an established safety history for its use as a vasodilator in humans, our findings support the repurposing of this drug as an adjunct for HCC treatment to improve clinical outcome and reduce tumor recurrence. These results also validate an approach for readily discovering actionable combinations for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Xu
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Hong Kong
| | - Man Tong
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Hong Kong
| | | | | | - Hoi Yee Chu
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Hong Kong
| | - Tin Lok Wong
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Hong Kong
| | - John H C Fong
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Hong Kong
| | | | | | | | - Yuanhua Huang
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Hong Kong
| | | | - Gigi C G Choi
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Hong Kong
| | - Stephanie Ma
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Hong Kong
| | - Alan S L Wong
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Hong Kong
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25
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Saghafinia S, Homicsko K, Di Domenico A, Wullschleger S, Perren A, Marinoni I, Ciriello G, Michael IP, Hanahan D. Cancer Cells Retrace a Stepwise Differentiation Program during Malignant Progression. Cancer Discov 2021; 11:2638-2657. [PMID: 33910926 PMCID: PMC7611766 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-20-1637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Revised: 03/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PanNET) comprise two molecular subtypes, relatively benign islet tumors (IT) and invasive, metastasis-like primary (MLP) tumors. Until now, the origin of aggressive MLP tumors has been obscure. Herein, using multi-omics approaches, we revealed that MLP tumors arise from IT via dedifferentiation following a reverse trajectory along the developmental pathway of islet β cells, which results in the acquisition of a progenitor-like molecular phenotype. Functionally, the miR-181cd cluster induces the IT-to-MLP transition by suppressing expression of the Meis2 transcription factor, leading to upregulation of a developmental transcription factor, Hmgb3. Notably, the IT-to-MLP transition constitutes a distinct step of tumorigenesis and is separable from the classic proliferation-associated hallmark, temporally preceding accelerated proliferation of cancer cells. Furthermore, patients with PanNET with elevated HMGB3 expression and an MLP transcriptional signature are associated with higher-grade tumors and worse survival. Overall, our results unveil a new mechanism that modulates cancer cell plasticity to enable malignant progression. SIGNIFICANCE: Dedifferentiation has long been observed as a histopathologic characteristic of many cancers, albeit inseparable from concurrent increases in cell proliferation. Herein, we demonstrate that dedifferentiation is a mechanistically and temporally separable step in the multistage tumorigenesis of pancreatic islet cells, retracing the developmental lineage of islet β cells.This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 2355.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadegh Saghafinia
- Swiss Institute for Experimental Cancer Research (ISREC), School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Computational Biology, University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
- Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics (SIB), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Krisztian Homicsko
- Swiss Institute for Experimental Cancer Research (ISREC), School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | - Stephan Wullschleger
- Swiss Institute for Experimental Cancer Research (ISREC), School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Aurel Perren
- Institute of Pathology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Ilaria Marinoni
- Institute of Pathology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Giovanni Ciriello
- Department of Computational Biology, University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
- Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics (SIB), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Iacovos P Michael
- Swiss Institute for Experimental Cancer Research (ISREC), School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Douglas Hanahan
- Swiss Institute for Experimental Cancer Research (ISREC), School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland.
- Lausanne Branch, Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Lausanne, Switzerland
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26
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Yang X, Lou J, Shan W, Ding J, Jin Z, Hu Y, Du Q, Liao Q, Xie R, Xu J. Pathophysiologic Role of Neurotransmitters in Digestive Diseases. Front Physiol 2021; 12:567650. [PMID: 34194334 PMCID: PMC8236819 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.567650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Neurotransmitters are special molecules that serve as messengers in chemical synapses between neurons, cells, or receptors, including catecholamines, serotonin, dopamine, and other neurotransmitters, which play an important role in both human physiology and pathology. Compelling evidence has indicated that neurotransmitters have an important physiological role in various digestive diseases. They act as ligands in combination with central or peripheral receptors, and transmits signals through chemical synapses, which are involved in regulating the physiological and pathological processes of the digestive tract organs. For instance, neurotransmitters regulate blood circulation and affect intestinal movement, nutrient absorption, the gastrointestinal innate immune system, and the microbiome. In this review, we will focus on the role of neurotransmitters in the pathogenesis of digestive tract diseases to provide novel therapeutic targets for new drug development in digestive diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Rui Xie
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Jingyu Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
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27
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Cutruzzolà F, Bouzidi A, Liberati FR, Spizzichino S, Boumis G, Macone A, Rinaldo S, Giardina G, Paone A. The Emerging Role of Amino Acids of the Brain Microenvironment in the Process of Metastasis Formation. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:2891. [PMID: 34207731 PMCID: PMC8227515 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13122891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Revised: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain metastases are the most severe clinical manifestation of aggressive tumors. Melanoma, breast, and lung cancers are the types that prefer the brain as a site of metastasis formation, even if the reasons for this phenomenon still remain to be clarified. One of the main characteristics that makes a cancer cell able to form metastases in the brain is the ability to interact with the endothelial cells of the microvasculature, cross the blood-brain barrier, and metabolically adapt to the nutrients available in the new microenvironment. In this review, we analyzed what makes the brain a suitable site for the development of metastases and how this microenvironment, through the continuous release of neurotransmitters and amino acids in the extracellular milieu, is able to support the metabolic needs of metastasizing cells. We also suggested a possible role for amino acids released by the brain through the endothelial cells of the blood-brain barrier into the bloodstream in triggering the process of extravasation/invasion of the brain parenchyma.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Alessio Paone
- Laboratory Affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia, Department of Biochemical Sciences A. Rossi Fanelli, Sapienza University of Rome, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy; (F.C.); (A.B.); (F.R.L.); (S.S.); (G.B.); (A.M.); (S.R.); (G.G.)
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28
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Carotti S, Zingariello M, Francesconi M, D'Andrea L, Latasa MU, Colyn L, Fernandez-Barrena MG, Flammia RS, Falchi M, Righi D, Pedini G, Pantano F, Bagni C, Perrone G, Rana RA, Avila MA, Morini S, Zalfa F. Fragile X mental retardation protein in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: regulating the cancer cell behavior plasticity at the leading edge. Oncogene 2021; 40:4033-4049. [PMID: 34017076 PMCID: PMC8195741 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-021-01824-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2019] [Revised: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) is a rare malignancy of the intrahepatic biliary tract with a very poor prognosis. Although some clinicopathological parameters can be prognostic factors for iCCA, the molecular prognostic markers and potential mechanisms of iCCA have not been well investigated. Here, we report that the Fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP), a RNA binding protein functionally absent in patients with the Fragile X syndrome (FXS) and also involved in several types of cancers, is overexpressed in human iCCA and its expression is significantly increased in iCCA metastatic tissues. The silencing of FMRP in metastatic iCCA cell lines affects cell migration and invasion, suggesting a role of FMRP in iCCA progression. Moreover, we show evidence that FMRP is localized at the invasive front of human iCCA neoplastic nests and in pseudopodia and invadopodia protrusions of migrating and invading iCCA cancer cells. Here FMRP binds several mRNAs encoding key proteins involved in the formation and/or function of these protrusions. In particular, we find that FMRP binds to and regulates the expression of Cortactin, a critical regulator of invadopodia formation. Altogether, our findings suggest that FMRP could promote cell invasiveness modulating membrane plasticity and invadopodia formation at the leading edges of invading iCCA cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Carotti
- Research Unit of Microscopic and Ultrastructural Anatomy, Department of Medicine, Campus Bio-Medico University, Rome, Italy
- Predictive Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Department of Pathology, Campus Bio-Medico University Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Zingariello
- Research Unit of Microscopic and Ultrastructural Anatomy, Department of Medicine, Campus Bio-Medico University, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Francesconi
- Research Unit of Microscopic and Ultrastructural Anatomy, Department of Medicine, Campus Bio-Medico University, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura D'Andrea
- Research Unit of Microscopic and Ultrastructural Anatomy, Department of Medicine, Campus Bio-Medico University, Rome, Italy
| | - M Ujue Latasa
- Hepatology Program, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra and IdiSNA, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Leticia Colyn
- Hepatology Program, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra and IdiSNA, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Maite G Fernandez-Barrena
- Hepatology Program, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra and IdiSNA, Pamplona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red, Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain
| | - Rocco Simone Flammia
- Research Unit of Microscopic and Ultrastructural Anatomy, Department of Medicine, Campus Bio-Medico University, Rome, Italy
| | - Mario Falchi
- National AIDS Center, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Righi
- Predictive Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Department of Pathology, Campus Bio-Medico University Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Giorgia Pedini
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Pantano
- Medical Oncology Department, Campus Bio-Medico University, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudia Bagni
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
- Department of Fundamental Neurosciences, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Giuseppe Perrone
- Predictive Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Department of Pathology, Campus Bio-Medico University Hospital, Rome, Italy
- Research Unit of Pathology, Campus Bio-Medico University, Rome, Italy
| | - Rosa Alba Rana
- Medicine and Aging Science Department, University G. D'Annunzio, Chieti-Pescara, Italy
| | - Matias A Avila
- Hepatology Program, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra and IdiSNA, Pamplona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red, Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Madrid, Spain
| | - Sergio Morini
- Research Unit of Microscopic and Ultrastructural Anatomy, Department of Medicine, Campus Bio-Medico University, Rome, Italy.
| | - Francesca Zalfa
- Research Unit of Microscopic and Ultrastructural Anatomy, Department of Medicine, Campus Bio-Medico University, Rome, Italy.
- Predictive Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Department of Pathology, Campus Bio-Medico University Hospital, Rome, Italy.
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29
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Peng D, Gleyzer R, Tai WH, Kumar P, Bian Q, Isaacs B, da Rocha EL, Cai S, DiNapoli K, Huang FW, Cahan P. Evaluating the transcriptional fidelity of cancer models. Genome Med 2021; 13:73. [PMID: 33926541 PMCID: PMC8086312 DOI: 10.1186/s13073-021-00888-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer researchers use cell lines, patient-derived xenografts, engineered mice, and tumoroids as models to investigate tumor biology and to identify therapies. The generalizability and power of a model derive from the fidelity with which it represents the tumor type under investigation; however, the extent to which this is true is often unclear. The preponderance of models and the ability to readily generate new ones has created a demand for tools that can measure the extent and ways in which cancer models resemble or diverge from native tumors. METHODS We developed a machine learning-based computational tool, CancerCellNet, that measures the similarity of cancer models to 22 naturally occurring tumor types and 36 subtypes, in a platform and species agnostic manner. We applied this tool to 657 cancer cell lines, 415 patient-derived xenografts, 26 distinct genetically engineered mouse models, and 131 tumoroids. We validated CancerCellNet by application to independent data, and we tested several predictions with immunofluorescence. RESULTS We have documented the cancer models with the greatest transcriptional fidelity to natural tumors, we have identified cancers underserved by adequate models, and we have found models with annotations that do not match their classification. By comparing models across modalities, we report that, on average, genetically engineered mice and tumoroids have higher transcriptional fidelity than patient-derived xenografts and cell lines in four out of five tumor types. However, several patient-derived xenografts and tumoroids have classification scores that are on par with native tumors, highlighting both their potential as faithful model classes and their heterogeneity. CONCLUSIONS CancerCellNet enables the rapid assessment of transcriptional fidelity of tumor models. We have made CancerCellNet available as a freely downloadable R package ( https://github.com/pcahan1/cancerCellNet ) and as a web application ( http://www.cahanlab.org/resources/cancerCellNet_web ) that can be applied to new cancer models that allows for direct comparison to the cancer models evaluated here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Da Peng
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Rachel Gleyzer
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Institute for Cell Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Wen-Hsin Tai
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Institute for Cell Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Pavithra Kumar
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA ,grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Institute for Cell Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Qin Bian
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA ,grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Institute for Cell Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Bradley Isaacs
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Institute for Cell Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Edroaldo Lummertz da Rocha
- grid.411237.20000 0001 2188 7235Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC Brazil
| | - Stephanie Cai
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Kathleen DiNapoli
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Department of Cell Biology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA ,grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218 USA
| | - Franklin W. Huang
- grid.266102.10000 0001 2297 6811Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine; Helen Diller Family Cancer Center; Bakar Computational Health Sciences Institute; Institute for Human Genetics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA USA
| | - Patrick Cahan
- grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA ,grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Institute for Cell Engineering, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA ,grid.21107.350000 0001 2171 9311Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
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Venkataramani V, Tanev DI, Kuner T, Wick W, Winkler F. Synaptic input to brain tumors: clinical implications. Neuro Oncol 2021; 23:23-33. [PMID: 32623467 DOI: 10.1093/neuonc/noaa158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The recent discovery of synaptic connections between neurons and brain tumor cells fundamentally challenges our understanding of gliomas and brain metastases and shows how these tumors can integrate into complex neuronal circuits. Here, we provide an overview of glutamatergic neuron-to-brain tumor synaptic communication (NBTSC) and explore novel therapeutic avenues. First, we summarize current concepts of direct synaptic interactions between presynaptic neurons and postsynaptic glioma cells, and indirect perisynaptic input to metastatic breast cancer cells. We explain how these novel structures drive brain tumor growth and invasion. Second, a vicious cycle of enhanced neuronal activity, including tumor-related epilepsy, and glioma progression is described. Finally, we discuss which future avenues to target NBTSC appear most promising. All in all, further characterization of NBTSC and the exploration of NBTSC-inhibiting therapies have the potential to reveal critical vulnerabilities of yet incurable brain tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varun Venkataramani
- Neurology Clinic and National Center for Tumor Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Neuro-Oncology, German Cancer Consortium, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Functional Neuroanatomy, Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Dimitar Ivanov Tanev
- Neurology Clinic and National Center for Tumor Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Neuro-Oncology, German Cancer Consortium, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Functional Neuroanatomy, Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Thomas Kuner
- Department of Functional Neuroanatomy, Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Wick
- Neurology Clinic and National Center for Tumor Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Neuro-Oncology, German Cancer Consortium, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Frank Winkler
- Neurology Clinic and National Center for Tumor Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Neuro-Oncology, German Cancer Consortium, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
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31
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Hunt PJ, Andújar FN, Silverman DA, Amit M. Mini-review: Trophic interactions between cancer cells and primary afferent neurons. Neurosci Lett 2021; 746:135658. [PMID: 33482305 PMCID: PMC7899767 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2021.135658] [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: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Cancer neurobiology is an emerging discipline that inevitably unfurls new perspectives in oncology. The role that nerves play in cancer progression resonates with the long-reported dependency of tumors on neuro-molecular mechanisms that remain insufficiently elucidated. Whereas interactions between neurotrophic growth factors and receptors have been heavily studied in the nervous system, their expression in cancers and their impact on tumor cell growth and metastasis through their corresponding signaling pathways has been undervalued. Accumulating evidence suggests that trophic factors released by nerves strongly influence tumor development and that this neural contribution appears to not only play a stimulatory role but also function as an essential part of the tumor's microenvironment. This bidirectional communication between proliferating cells and tumor-infiltrating nerves drives axonogenesis and tumor growth and migration. Acquiring a better understanding of the trophic interactions between primary afferent neurons and invading tumors will guide clinically actionable strategies to prevent tumor-associated axonogenesis, disrupting the chemical crosstalk between neurons and tumors and ultimately decreasing tumor growth and spread.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick J Hunt
- Medical Scientist Training Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States; Department of Neurosurgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States; Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, United States.
| | - Fabiola N Andújar
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, United States; Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Deborah A Silverman
- University of Texas Medical Scientist Training Program at Houston, Houston, TX, United States; Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Moran Amit
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Division of Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States.
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32
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Hunt PJ, Kabotyanski KE, Calin GA, Xie T, Myers JN, Amit M. Interrupting Neuron-Tumor Interactions to Overcome Treatment Resistance. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E3741. [PMID: 33322770 PMCID: PMC7762969 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12123741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurons in the tumor microenvironment release neurotransmitters, neuroligins, chemokines, soluble growth factors, and membrane-bound growth factors that solid tumors leverage to drive their own survival and spread. Tumors express nerve-specific growth factors and microRNAs that support local neurons and guide neuronal growth into tumors. The development of feed-forward relationships between tumors and neurons allows tumors to use the perineural space as a sanctuary from therapy. Tumor denervation slows tumor growth in animal models, demonstrating the innervation dependence of growing tumors. Further in vitro and in vivo experiments have identified many of the secreted signaling molecules (e.g., acetylcholine, nerve growth factor) that are passed between neurons and cancer cells, as well as the major signaling pathways (e.g., MAPK/EGFR) involved in these trophic interactions. The molecules involved in these signaling pathways serve as potential biomarkers of disease. Additionally, new treatment strategies focus on using small molecules, receptor agonists, nerve-specific toxins, and surgical interventions to target tumors, neurons, and immune cells of the tumor microenvironment, thereby severing the interactions between tumors and surrounding neurons. This article discusses the mechanisms underlying the trophic relationships formed between neurons and tumors and explores the emerging therapies stemming from this work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick J. Hunt
- Medical Scientist Training Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (P.J.H.); (K.E.K.)
- Department of Neurosurgery, Division of Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Katherine E. Kabotyanski
- Medical Scientist Training Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (P.J.H.); (K.E.K.)
| | - George A. Calin
- Translational Molecular Pathology, Division of Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
| | - Tongxin Xie
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Division of Surgery, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (T.X.); (J.N.M.)
| | - Jeffrey N. Myers
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Division of Surgery, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (T.X.); (J.N.M.)
| | - Moran Amit
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Division of Surgery, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (T.X.); (J.N.M.)
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33
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Xu R, Yang J, Ren B, Wang H, Yang G, Chen Y, You L, Zhao Y. Reprogramming of Amino Acid Metabolism in Pancreatic Cancer: Recent Advances and Therapeutic Strategies. Front Oncol 2020; 10:572722. [PMID: 33117704 PMCID: PMC7550743 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.572722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the most fatal malignancies with an extremely poor prognosis. Energy metabolism reprogramming, an emerging hallmark of cancer, has been implicated in the tumorigenesis and development of pancreatic cancer. In addition to well-elaborated enhanced glycolysis, investigating the role of reprogramming of amino acid metabolism has sparked great interests in recent years. The rewiring amino acid metabolism orchestrated by genetic alterations contributes to pancreatic cancer malignant characteristics including cell proliferation, invasion, metastasis, angiogenesis and redox balance. In the unique hypoperfused and nutrient-deficient tumor microenvironment (TME), the interactions between cancer cells and stromal components and salvaging processes including autophagy and macropinocytosis play critical roles in fulfilling the metabolic requirements and supporting growth of PDAC. In this review, we elucidate the recent advances in the amino acid metabolism reprogramming in pancreatic cancer and the mechanisms of amino acid metabolism regulating PDAC progression, which will provide opportunities to develop promising therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruiyuan Xu
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jinshou Yang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Bo Ren
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Huanyu Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Gang Yang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yuan Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Lei You
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yupei Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
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34
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Li A, Herbst RH, Canner D, Schenkel JM, Smith OC, Kim JY, Hillman M, Bhutkar A, Cuoco MS, Rappazzo CG, Rogers P, Dang C, Jerby-Arnon L, Rozenblatt-Rosen O, Cong L, Birnbaum M, Regev A, Jacks T. IL-33 Signaling Alters Regulatory T Cell Diversity in Support of Tumor Development. Cell Rep 2020; 29:2998-3008.e8. [PMID: 31801068 PMCID: PMC6990979 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2019.10.120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2019] [Revised: 09/07/2019] [Accepted: 10/29/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Tregs) can impair anti-tumor immune responses and are associated with poor prognosis in multiple cancer types. Tregs in human tumors span diverse transcriptional states distinct from those of peripheral Tregs, but their contribution to tumor development remains unknown. Here, we use single-cell RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) to longitudinally profile dynamic shifts in the distribution of Tregs in a genetically engineered mouse model of lung adenocarcinoma. In this model, interferon-responsive Tregs are more prevalent early in tumor development, whereas a specialized effector phenotype characterized by enhanced expression of the interleukin-33 receptor ST2 is predominant in advanced disease. Treg-specific deletion of ST2 alters the evolution of effector Treg diversity, increases infiltration of CD8+ T cells into tumors, and decreases tumor burden. Our study shows that ST2 plays a critical role in Treg-mediated immunosuppression in cancer, highlighting potential paths for therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Li
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 500 Main Street, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck Street, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Rebecca H Herbst
- Harvard Medical School, 25 Shattuck Street, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, 415 Main Street, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - David Canner
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 500 Main Street, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Jason M Schenkel
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 500 Main Street, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Olivia C Smith
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 500 Main Street, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Jonathan Y Kim
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 500 Main Street, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Michelle Hillman
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 500 Main Street, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Arjun Bhutkar
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 500 Main Street, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Michael S Cuoco
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, 415 Main Street, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - C Garrett Rappazzo
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 500 Main Street, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 21 Ames Street, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Patricia Rogers
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, 415 Main Street, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Celeste Dang
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 500 Main Street, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Livnat Jerby-Arnon
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, 415 Main Street, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | | | - Le Cong
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Department of Genetics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Michael Birnbaum
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 500 Main Street, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 21 Ames Street, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Aviv Regev
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 500 Main Street, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, 415 Main Street, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA.
| | - Tyler Jacks
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 500 Main Street, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA.
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35
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Malecki C, Hambly BD, Jeremy RW, Robertson EN. The RNA-binding fragile-X mental retardation protein and its role beyond the brain. Biophys Rev 2020; 12:903-916. [PMID: 32654068 DOI: 10.1007/s12551-020-00730-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
It is well-established that variations of a CGG repeat expansion in the gene FMR1, which encodes the fragile-X mental retardation protein (FMRP), cause the neurocognitive disorder, fragile-X syndrome (FXS). However, multiple observations suggest a general and complex regulatory role of FMRP in processes outside the brain: (1) FMRP is ubiquitously expressed in the body, suggesting it functions in multiple organ systems; (2) patients with FXS can exhibit a physical phenotype that is consistent with an underlying abnormality in connective tissue; (3) different CGG repeat expansion lengths in FMR1 result in different clinical outcomes due to different pathogenic mechanisms; (4) the function of FMRP as an RNA-binding protein suggests it has a general regulatory role. This review details the complex nature of FMRP and the different CGG repeat expansion lengths and the evidence supporting the essential role of the protein in a variety of biological and pathological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassandra Malecki
- Discipline of Pathology and Bosch Institute, The University of Sydney, Level 4 West, Charles Perkins Centre D17, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia.
| | - Brett D Hambly
- Discipline of Pathology and Bosch Institute, The University of Sydney, Level 4 West, Charles Perkins Centre D17, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Richmond W Jeremy
- Discipline of Pathology and Bosch Institute, The University of Sydney, Level 4 West, Charles Perkins Centre D17, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia.,Cardiology Department, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Elizabeth N Robertson
- Discipline of Pathology and Bosch Institute, The University of Sydney, Level 4 West, Charles Perkins Centre D17, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia.,Cardiology Department, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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36
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Kalev-Zylinska ML, Hearn JI, Makhro A, Bogdanova A. N-Methyl-D-Aspartate Receptors in Hematopoietic Cells: What Have We Learned? Front Physiol 2020; 11:577. [PMID: 32625106 PMCID: PMC7311790 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2020.00577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2019] [Accepted: 05/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) provides a pathway for glutamate-mediated inter-cellular communication, best known for its role in the brain but with multiple examples of functionality in non-neuronal cells. Data previously published by others and us provided ex vivo evidence that NMDARs regulate platelet and red blood cell (RBC) production. Here, we summarize what is known about these hematopoietic roles of the NMDAR. Types of NMDAR subunits expressed in megakaryocytes (platelet precursors) and erythroid cells are more commonly found in the developing rather than adult brain, suggesting trophic functions. Nevertheless, similar to their neuronal counterparts, hematopoietic NMDARs function as ion channels, and are permeable to calcium ions (Ca2+). Inhibitors that block open NMDAR (memantine and MK-801) interfere with megakaryocytic maturation and proplatelet formation in primary culture. The effect on proplatelet formation appears to involve Ca2+ influx-dependent regulation of the cytoskeletal remodeling. In contrast to normal megakaryocytes, NMDAR effects in leukemic Meg-01 cells are diverted away from differentiation to increase proliferation. NMDAR hypofunction triggers differentiation of Meg-01 cells with the bias toward erythropoiesis. The underlying mechanism involves changes in the intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis, cell stress pathways, and hematopoietic transcription factors that upon NMDAR inhibition shift from the predominance of megakaryocytic toward erythroid regulators. This ability of NMDAR to balance both megakaryocytic and erythroid cell fates suggests receptor involvement at the level of a bipotential megakaryocyte-erythroid progenitor. In human erythroid precursors and circulating RBCs, NMDAR regulates intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis. NMDAR activity supports survival of early proerythroblasts, and in mature RBCs NMDARs impact cellular hydration state, hemoglobin oxygen affinity, and nitric oxide synthase activity. Overexcitation of NMDAR in mature RBCs leads to Ca2+ overload, K+ loss, RBC dehydration, and oxidative stress, which may contribute to the pathogenesis of sickle cell disease. In summary, there is growing evidence that glutamate-NMDAR signaling regulates megakaryocytic and erythroid cells at different stages of maturation, with some intriguing differences emerging in NMDAR expression and function between normal and diseased cells. NMDAR signaling may provide new therapeutic opportunities in hematological disease, but in vivo applicability needs to be confirmed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maggie L. Kalev-Zylinska
- Blood and Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Molecular Medicine and Pathology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, LabPlus Haematology, Auckland City Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - James I. Hearn
- Blood and Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Molecular Medicine and Pathology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Asya Makhro
- Red Blood Cell Research Group, Institute of Veterinary Physiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland
- Zurich Center for Integrative Human Physiology, University of Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Anna Bogdanova
- Red Blood Cell Research Group, Institute of Veterinary Physiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland
- Zurich Center for Integrative Human Physiology, University of Zurich, Zürich, Switzerland
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37
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Membrane dynamics in cell migration. Essays Biochem 2020; 63:469-482. [PMID: 31350382 DOI: 10.1042/ebc20190014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2019] [Revised: 06/27/2019] [Accepted: 07/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Migration of cells is required in multiple tissue-level processes, such as in inflammation or cancer metastasis. Endocytosis is an extremely regulated cellular process by which cells uptake extracellular molecules or internalise cell surface receptors. While the role of endocytosis of focal adhesions (FA) and plasma membrane (PM) turnover at the leading edge of migratory cells is wide known, the contribution of endocytic proteins per se in migration has been frequently disregarded. In this review, we describe the novel functions of the most well-known endocytic proteins in cancer cell migration, focusing on clathrin, caveolin, flotillins and GRAF1. In addition, we highlight the relevance of the macropinocytic pathway in amoeboid-like cell migration.
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38
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Warthi G, Fournier PE, Seligmann H. Systematic Nucleotide Exchange Analysis of ESTs From the Human Cancer Genome Project Report: Origins of 347 Unknown ESTs Indicate Putative Transcription of Non-Coding Genomic Regions. Front Genet 2020; 11:42. [PMID: 32117454 PMCID: PMC7027195 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2020.00042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2019] [Accepted: 01/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Expressed sequence tags (ESTs) provide an imprint of cellular RNA diversity irrespectively of sequence homology with template genomes. NCBI databases include many unknown RNAs from various normal and cancer cells. These are usually ignored assuming sequencing artefacts or contamination due to their lack of sequence homology with template DNA. Here, we report genomic origins of 347 ESTs previously assumed artefacts/unknown, from the FAPESP/LICR Human Cancer Genome Project. EST template detection uses systematic nucleotide exchange analyses called swinger transformations. Systematic nucleotide exchanges replace systematically particular nucleotides with different nucleotides. Among 347 unknown ESTs, 51 ESTs match mitogenome transcription, 17 and 2 ESTs are from nuclear chromosome non-coding regions, and uncharacterized nuclear genes. Identified ESTs mapped on 205 protein-coding genes, 10 genes had swinger RNAs in several biosamples. Whole cell transcriptome searches for 17 ESTs mapping on non-coding regions confirmed their transcription. The 10 swinger-transcribed genes identified more than once associate with cancer induction and progression, suggesting swinger transformation occurs mainly in highly transcribed genes. Swinger transformation is a unique method to identify noncanonical RNAs obtained from NGS, which identifies putative ncRNA transcribed regions. Results suggest that swinger transcription occurs in highly active genes in normal and genetically unstable cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ganesh Warthi
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, APHM, SSA, VITROME, IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France.,IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
| | - Pierre-Edouard Fournier
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, APHM, SSA, VITROME, IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France.,IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
| | - Hervé Seligmann
- The National Natural History Collections, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel.,Université Grenoble Alpes, Faculty of Medicine, Laboratory AGEIS EA 7407, Team Tools for e-Gnosis Medical & Labcom CNRS/UGA/OrangeLabs Telecoms4Health, La Tronche, France
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Yin J, Tu G, Peng M, Zeng H, Wan X, Qiao Y, Qin Y, Liu M, Luo H. GPER-regulated lncRNA-Glu promotes glutamate secretion to enhance cellular invasion and metastasis in triple-negative breast cancer. FASEB J 2020; 34:4557-4572. [PMID: 32030797 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201901384rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2019] [Revised: 01/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a group of breast cancer with heterogeneity and poor prognosis and effective therapeutic targets are not available currently. TNBC has been recognized as estrogen-independent breast cancer, while the novel estrogen receptor, namely G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER), was claimed to mediate estrogenic actions in TNBC tissues and cell lines. Through mRNA microarrays, lncRNA microarrays, and bioinformatics analysis, we found that GPER is activated by 17β-estradiol (E2) and GPER-specific agonist G1, which downregulates a novel lncRNA (termed as lncRNA-Glu). LncRNA-Glu can inhibit glutamate transport activity and transcriptional activity of its target gene VGLUT2 via specific binding. GPER-mediated reduction of lncRNA-Glu promotes glutamate transport activity and transcriptional activity of VGLUT2. Furthermore, GPER-mediated activation of cAMP-PKA signaling contributes to glutamate secretion. LncRNA-Glu-VGLUT2 signaling synergizes with cAMP-PKA signaling to increase autologous glutamate secretion in TNBC cells, which activates glutamate N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) and its downstream CaMK and MEK-MAPK pathways, thus enhancing cellular invasion and metastasis in vitro and in vivo. Our data provide new insights into GPER-mediated glutamate secretion and its downstream signaling NMDAR-CaMK/MEK-MAPK during TNBC invasion. The mechanisms we discovered may provide new targets for clinical therapy of TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiali Yin
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medical Diagnostics designated by Chinese Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Gang Tu
- Department of Endocrine and Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Meixi Peng
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medical Diagnostics designated by Chinese Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Huan Zeng
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medical Diagnostics designated by Chinese Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xueying Wan
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medical Diagnostics designated by Chinese Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yina Qiao
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medical Diagnostics designated by Chinese Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yilu Qin
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medical Diagnostics designated by Chinese Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Manran Liu
- Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medical Diagnostics designated by Chinese Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Haojun Luo
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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Leslie TK, James AD, Zaccagna F, Grist JT, Deen S, Kennerley A, Riemer F, Kaggie JD, Gallagher FA, Gilbert FJ, Brackenbury WJ. Sodium homeostasis in the tumour microenvironment. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2019; 1872:188304. [PMID: 31348974 PMCID: PMC7115894 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2019.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2019] [Revised: 07/11/2019] [Accepted: 07/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The concentration of sodium ions (Na+) is raised in solid tumours and can be measured at the cellular, tissue and patient levels. At the cellular level, the Na+ gradient across the membrane powers the transport of H+ ions and essential nutrients for normal activity. The maintenance of the Na+ gradient requires a large proportion of the cell's ATP. Na+ is a major contributor to the osmolarity of the tumour microenvironment, which affects cell volume and metabolism as well as immune function. Here, we review evidence indicating that Na+ handling is altered in tumours, explore our current understanding of the mechanisms that may underlie these alterations and consider the potential consequences for cancer progression. Dysregulated Na+ balance in tumours may open opportunities for new imaging biomarkers and re-purposing of drugs for treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa K Leslie
- Department of Biology, University of York, Heslington, York YO10 5DD, UK; York Biomedical Research Institute, University of York, Heslington, York YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Andrew D James
- Department of Biology, University of York, Heslington, York YO10 5DD, UK; York Biomedical Research Institute, University of York, Heslington, York YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Fulvio Zaccagna
- Department of Radiology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - James T Grist
- Department of Radiology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Surrin Deen
- Department of Radiology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Aneurin Kennerley
- York Biomedical Research Institute, University of York, Heslington, York YO10 5DD, UK; Department of Chemistry, University of York, Heslington, York YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Frank Riemer
- Department of Radiology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Joshua D Kaggie
- Department of Radiology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Ferdia A Gallagher
- Department of Radiology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Fiona J Gilbert
- Department of Radiology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - William J Brackenbury
- Department of Biology, University of York, Heslington, York YO10 5DD, UK; York Biomedical Research Institute, University of York, Heslington, York YO10 5DD, UK.
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Synaptic proximity enables NMDAR signalling to promote brain metastasis. Nature 2019; 573:526-531. [PMID: 31534217 PMCID: PMC6837873 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-019-1576-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 294] [Impact Index Per Article: 58.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2018] [Accepted: 07/05/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Metastasis - the disseminated growth of tumours in distant organs – underlies cancer mortality. Breast-to-brain metastasis (B2BM) is disconcertingly common and disruptive, being prevalent in the aggressive basal-like subtype, albeit evident at varying frequencies in all subtypes. Previous studies revealed parameters of breast cancer metastasis to brain, but its preference for this site remains an enigma. Herein we show that B2BM cells co-opt a neuronal signaling pathway recently implicated in invasive tumour growth, involving activation by glutamate ligand of an N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR), whose signaling is demonstrably instrumental in model systems for metastatic colonization of the brain, and associated with poor prognosis. While NMDAR receptor activation is autocrine in some primary tumour types, human and mouse B2BM cells express receptors but secrete insufficient glutamate to activate signaling, which is instead supplied via the formation of pseudo-tripartite synapses between cancer cells and glutamatergic neurons, presenting an insidious rationale for brain metastasis.
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Venkataramani V, Tanev DI, Strahle C, Studier-Fischer A, Fankhauser L, Kessler T, Körber C, Kardorff M, Ratliff M, Xie R, Horstmann H, Messer M, Paik SP, Knabbe J, Sahm F, Kurz FT, Acikgöz AA, Herrmannsdörfer F, Agarwal A, Bergles DE, Chalmers A, Miletic H, Turcan S, Mawrin C, Hänggi D, Liu HK, Wick W, Winkler F, Kuner T. Glutamatergic synaptic input to glioma cells drives brain tumour progression. Nature 2019; 573:532-538. [DOI: 10.1038/s41586-019-1564-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 370] [Impact Index Per Article: 74.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2018] [Accepted: 08/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
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Kwiatkowski BA, Burwick NR, Richard RE. DLGAP1 directs megakaryocytic growth and differentiation in an MPL dependent manner in hematopoietic cells. Biomark Res 2019; 7:13. [PMID: 31321035 PMCID: PMC6615210 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-019-0165-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2019] [Accepted: 06/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The MPL protein is a major regulator of megakaryopoiesis and platelet formation as well as stem cell regulation. Aberrant MPL and downstream Jak/STAT signaling results in the development of the Myeloproliferative Neoplasms (MPN). The pathogenetic and phenotypic features of the classical MPNs cannot be explained by the known mutations and genetic variants associated with the disease. Methods In order to identify potential pathways involved in MPN development, we have performed a functional screen using retroviral insertional mutagenesis in cells dependent on MPL activation. We have used viral transduction and plasmid transfections to test the effects of candidate gene overexpression on growth and differentiation of megakaryocytic cells. The shRNA approach was used to test for the effects of candidate gene downregulation in cells. All effects were tested with candidate gene alone or in presence of hematopoietic relevant kinases in the growth medium. We assayed the candidate gene cellular localization in varying growth conditions by immunofluorescence. Flow Cytometry was used for testing of transduction efficiency and for sorting of positive cells. Results We have identified the DLGAP1 gene, a member of the Scribble cell polarity complex, as one of the most prominent positive candidates. Analyses in hematopoietic cell lines revealed DLGAP1 centrosomal and cytoplasmic localization. The centrosomal localization of DLGAP1 was cell cycle dependent and hematopoietic relevant tyrosine kinases: Jak2, SRC and MAPK as well as the CDK1 kinase promoted DLGAP1 dissociation from centrosomes. DLGAP1 negatively affected the growth rate of MPL dependent hematopoietic cells and supported megakaryocytic cells polyploidization, which was correlated with its dissociation from centrosomes. Conclusions Our data support the conclusion that DLGAP1 is a novel, potent factor in MPL signaling, affecting megakaryocytic growth and differentiation, relevant to be investigated further as a prominent candidate in MPN development. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s40364-019-0165-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boguslaw A Kwiatkowski
- Seattle Institute for Biomedical and Clinical Research, VA Puget Sound Healthcare System, 1660 South Columbian Way, S-111-ONC, Seattle, WA 98108 USA
| | - Nicolas R Burwick
- Seattle Institute for Biomedical and Clinical Research, VA Puget Sound Healthcare System, 1660 South Columbian Way, S-111-ONC, Seattle, WA 98108 USA
| | - Robert E Richard
- Seattle Institute for Biomedical and Clinical Research, VA Puget Sound Healthcare System, 1660 South Columbian Way, S-111-ONC, Seattle, WA 98108 USA
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Modulation of Heat Shock Factor 1 Activity through Silencing of Ser303/Ser307 Phosphorylation Supports a Metabolic Program Leading to Age-Related Obesity and Insulin Resistance. Mol Cell Biol 2018; 38:MCB.00095-18. [PMID: 29941492 DOI: 10.1128/mcb.00095-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2018] [Accepted: 06/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Activation of the adaptive response to cellular stress orchestrated by heat shock factor 1 (HSF1), which is an evolutionarily conserved transcriptional regulator of chaperone response and cellular bioenergetics in diverse model systems, is a central feature of organismal defense from environmental and cellular stress. HSF1 activity, induced by proteostatic, metabolic, and growth factor signals, is regulated by posttranscriptional modifications, yet the mechanisms that regulate HSF1 and particularly the functional significance of these modifications in modulating its biological activity in vivo remain unknown. HSF1 phosphorylation at both Ser303 (S303) and Ser307 (S307) has been shown to repress HSF1 transcriptional activity under normal physiological growth conditions. To determine the biological relevance of these HSF1 phosphorylation events, we generated a knock-in mouse model in which S303 and S307 were replaced with alanine (HSF1303A/307A). Our results confirmed that loss of phosphorylation in HSF1303A/307A cells and tissues increases protein stability but also markedly sensitizes HSF1 activation under normal and heat- or nutrient-induced stress conditions. Interestingly, the enhanced HSF1 activation in HSF1303A/307A mice activates a supportive metabolic program that aggravates the development of age-dependent obesity, fatty liver diseases, and insulin resistance. Thus, these findings highlight the importance of a posttranslational mechanism (through phosphorylation at S303 and S307 sites) of regulation of the HSF1-mediated transcriptional program that moderates the severity of nutrient-induced metabolic diseases.
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Robinson HPC, Li L. Autocrine, paracrine and necrotic NMDA receptor signalling in mouse pancreatic neuroendocrine tumour cells. Open Biol 2018; 7:rsob.170221. [PMID: 29263248 PMCID: PMC5746548 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.170221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2017] [Accepted: 11/23/2017] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
N-Methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) activation is implicated in the malignant progression of many cancer types, as previously shown by the growth-inhibitory effects of NMDAR antagonists. NMDAR-mediated calcium influx and its downstream signalling depend critically, however, on the dynamics of membrane potential and ambient glutamate concentration, which are poorly characterized in cancer cells. Here, we have used low-noise whole-cell patch-clamp recording to investigate the electrophysiology of glutamate signalling in pancreatic neuroendocrine tumour (PanNET) cells derived from a genetically-engineered mouse model (GEMM) of PanNET, in which NMDAR signalling is known to promote cancer progression. Activating NMDARs caused excitation and intracellular calcium elevation, and intracellular perfusion with physiological levels of glutamate led to VGLUT-dependent autocrine NMDAR activation. Necrotic cells, which are often present in rapidly-growing tumours, were shown to release endogenous cytoplasmic glutamate, and necrosis induced by mechanical rupture of the plasma membrane produced intense NMDAR activation in nearby cells. Computational modelling, based on these results, predicts that NMDARs in cancer cells can be strongly activated in the tumour microenvironment by both autocrine glutamate release and necrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugh P C Robinson
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK
| | - Leanne Li
- David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 500 Main Street, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
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