1
|
Qin H, Wang Q, Xu J, Zeng H, Liu J, Yu F, Yang J. Integrative analysis of anoikis-related genes prognostic signature with immunotherapy and identification of CDKN3 as a key oncogene in lung adenocarcinoma. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 143:113282. [PMID: 39383787 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.113282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2024] [Revised: 09/01/2024] [Accepted: 09/26/2024] [Indexed: 10/11/2024]
Abstract
Anoikis, a form of programmed cell death induced by loss of cell contact, is closely associated with tumor invasion and metastasis, making it highly significant in lung cancer research. We examined the expression patterns and prognostic relevance of Anoikis-related genes (ARGs) in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) using the TCGA-LUAD database. This study identified molecular subtypes associated with Anoikis in LUAD and conducted functional enrichment analyses. We constructed an ARG risk score using univariate least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) Cox regression, validated externally with GEO datasets and clinical samples. The clinical applicability of the prognostic model was evaluated using nomograms, calibration curves, decision curve analysis (DCA), and time-dependent AUC assessments. We identified four prognostically significant genes (PLK1, SLC2A1, CDKN3, PHLDA2) and two ARG-related molecular subtypes. ARGs were generally upregulated in LUAD and correlated with multiple pathways including the cell cycle and DNA replication. The prognostic model indicated that the low-risk group had better outcomes and significant correlations with clinicopathological features, tumor microenvironment, immune therapy responses, drug sensitivity, and pan-RNA epigenetic modification-related genes. Patients with low-risk LUAD were potential beneficiaries of immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy. Prognostic ARGs' distribution and expression across various immune cell types were further analyzed using single-cell RNA sequencing. The pivotal role of CDKN3 in LUAD was confirmed through qRT-PCR and gene knockout experiments, demonstrating that CDKN3 knockdown inhibits tumor cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Additionally, we constructed a ceRNA network involving CDKN3/hsa-miR-26a-5p/SNHG6, LINC00665, DUXAP8, and SLC2A1/hsa-miR-218-5p/RNASEH1-AS1, providing new insights for personalized and immune therapy decisions in LUAD patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haotian Qin
- National & Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Orthopaedic Biomaterials, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518036, China; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Orthopaedic Diseases and Biomaterials Research, Shenzhen 518036, China; Department of Bone & Joint Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen Peking University-The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical Center, Shenzhen 518036, China
| | - Qichang Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518036, China
| | - Juan Xu
- Department of Oncology, Chaohu Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 238001, China
| | - Hui Zeng
- National & Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Orthopaedic Biomaterials, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518036, China; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Orthopaedic Diseases and Biomaterials Research, Shenzhen 518036, China; Department of Bone & Joint Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen Peking University-The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical Center, Shenzhen 518036, China
| | - Jixian Liu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518036, China.
| | - Fei Yu
- National & Local Joint Engineering Research Center of Orthopaedic Biomaterials, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518036, China; Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Orthopaedic Diseases and Biomaterials Research, Shenzhen 518036, China; Department of Bone & Joint Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen Peking University-The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical Center, Shenzhen 518036, China.
| | - Jun Yang
- Department of Radiology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518036, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Wang B, Pan Y, Xie Y, Wang C, Yang Y, Sun H, Yan Z, Cui Y, Li L, Zhou Y, Liu W, Pan Z. Metabolic and Immunological Implications of MME +CAF-Mediated Hypoxia Signaling in Pancreatic Cancer Progression: Therapeutic Insights and Translational Opportunities. Biol Proced Online 2024; 26:29. [PMID: 39342097 PMCID: PMC11438378 DOI: 10.1186/s12575-024-00254-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 09/04/2024] [Indexed: 10/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is a devastating malignancy with a high mortality rate, poor prognosis, and limited treatment options. The tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a crucial role in tumor progression and therapy resistance. Multiple subpopulations of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) within the TME can switch between different states, exhibiting both antitumorigenic and protumorigenic functions in pancreatic cancer. It seems that targeting fibroblast-related proteins and other stromal components is an appealing approach to combat pancreatic cancer. This study employed single-cell transcriptome sequencing to identify MME (Membrane Metalloendopeptidase)-expressing CAFs in pancreatic cancer. Systematic screening was conducted based on tumor differentiation, lymph node metastasis, and T-stage parameters to identify and confirm the existence of a subpopulation of fibroblasts termed MME+CAFs. Subsequent analyses included temporal studies, exploration of intercellular communication patterns focusing on the hypoxia signaling pathway, and investigation of MME+CAF functions in the pancreatic cancer microenvironment. The pathway enrichment analysis and clinical relevance revealed a strong association between high MME expression and glycolysis, hypoxia markers, and pro-cancer inflammatory pathways. The role of MME+CAFs was validated through in vivo and in vitro experiments, including high-throughput drug screening to evaluate potential targeted therapeutic strategies. Single-cell transcriptome sequencing revealed tumor-associated fibroblasts with high MME expression, termed MME+CAF, exhibiting a unique end-stage differentiation function in the TME. MME+CAF involvement in the hypoxia signaling pathway suggested the potential effects on pancreatic cancer progression through intercellular communication. High MME expression was associated with increased glycolysis, hypoxia markers (VEGF), and pro-cancer inflammatory pathways in pancreatic cancer patients, correlating with lower survival rates, advanced disease stage, and higher oncogene mutation rates. Animal experiments confirmed that elevated MME expression in CAFs increases tumor burden, promotes an immunosuppressive microenvironment, and enhances resistance to chemotherapy and immunotherapy. The developed MME+CAF inhibitor IOX2 (a specific prolyl hydroxylase-2 (PHD2) inhibitor), combined with AG (Paclitaxel + Gemcitabine) and anti-PD1 therapy, demonstrated promising antitumor effects, offering a translational strategy for targeting MME in CAFs of pancreatic cancer. The study findings highlighted the significant role of MME+CAF in pancreatic cancer progression by shaping the TME and influencing key pathways. Targeting MME presented a promising strategy to combat the disease, with potential implications for therapeutic interventions aimed at disrupting MME+CAF functions and enhancing the efficacy of pancreatic cancer treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bin Wang
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer, Department of Integrative Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Yue Pan
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin, University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, 300193, China
| | - Yongjie Xie
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer, Department of Pancreatic Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Cong Wang
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer, Department of Integrative Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Yinli Yang
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer, Department of Integrative Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Haiyan Sun
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer, Department of Integrative Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Zhuchen Yan
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer, Department of Integrative Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Yameng Cui
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer, Department of Integrative Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Ling Li
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer, Department of Integrative Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Yaoyao Zhou
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China.
| | - Weishuai Liu
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer, Department of Pain Management, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China.
| | - Zhanyu Pan
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer, Department of Integrative Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, 300060, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Xia B, Qiu L, Yue J, Si J, Zhang H. The metabolic crosstalk of cancer-associated fibroblasts and tumor cells: Recent advances and future perspectives. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2024; 1879:189190. [PMID: 39341468 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2024.189190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2024] [Accepted: 09/23/2024] [Indexed: 10/01/2024]
Abstract
Tumor cells grow in a microenvironment with a lack of nutrients and oxygen. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) as one major component of tumor microenvironment have strong ability to survive under stressful conditions through metabolic remodelling. Furthermore, CAFs are educated by tumor cells and help them adapt to the hostile microenvironment through their metabolic communication. By inducing catabolism, CAFs release nutrients into the microenvironment which are taken up by tumor cells to satisfy their metabolic requirements. Furthermore, CAFs can recycle toxic metabolic wastes produced by cancer cells into energetic substances, allowing cancer cells to undergo biosynthesis. Their metabolic crosstalk also enhances CAFs' pro-tumor phenotype and reshape the microenvironment facilitating tumor cells' metastasis and immune escape. In this review, we have analyzed the effect and mechanisms of metabolic crosstalk between tumor cells and CAFs. We also analyzed the future perspectives in this area from the points of CAFs heterogeneity, spatial metabonomics and patient-derived tumor organoids (PDOs). These information may deepen the knowledge of tumor metabolism regulated by CAFs and provide novel insights into the development of metabolism-based anti-cancer strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bing Xia
- Department of Thoracic Oncology, Key Laboratory of Clinical Cancer Pharmacology and Toxicology Research of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou 310002, China
| | - Liqing Qiu
- Hangzhou Cancer Institution, Hangzhou Cancer Hospital, 310002, China
| | - Jing Yue
- Hangzhou Cancer Institution, Hangzhou Cancer Hospital, 310002, China
| | - Jingxing Si
- Cancer Center, Department of Radiology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital), Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310014, China
| | - Hongfang Zhang
- Hangzhou Cancer Institution, Key Laboratory of Clinical Cancer Pharmacology and Toxicology Research of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Cancer Hospital, 310002, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Gong D, Arbesfeld-Qiu JM, Perrault E, Bae JW, Hwang WL. Spatial oncology: Translating contextual biology to the clinic. Cancer Cell 2024:S1535-6108(24)00349-0. [PMID: 39366372 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccell.2024.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2024] [Revised: 08/01/2024] [Accepted: 09/06/2024] [Indexed: 10/06/2024]
Abstract
Microscopic examination of cells in their tissue context has been the driving force behind diagnostic histopathology over the past two centuries. Recently, the rise of advanced molecular biomarkers identified through single cell profiling has increased our understanding of cellular heterogeneity in cancer but have yet to significantly impact clinical care. Spatial technologies integrating molecular profiling with microenvironmental features are poised to bridge this translational gap by providing critical in situ context for understanding cellular interactions and organization. Here, we review how spatial tools have been used to study tumor ecosystems and their clinical applications. We detail findings in cell-cell interactions, microenvironment composition, and tissue remodeling for immune evasion and therapeutic resistance. Additionally, we highlight the emerging role of multi-omic spatial profiling for characterizing clinically relevant features including perineural invasion, tertiary lymphoid structures, and the tumor-stroma interface. Finally, we explore strategies for clinical integration and their augmentation of therapeutic and diagnostic approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dennis Gong
- Center for Systems Biology, Department of Radiation Oncology, Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Jeanna M Arbesfeld-Qiu
- Center for Systems Biology, Department of Radiation Oncology, Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Harvard University, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, Cambridge, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ella Perrault
- Center for Systems Biology, Department of Radiation Oncology, Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Harvard University, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, Cambridge, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jung Woo Bae
- Center for Systems Biology, Department of Radiation Oncology, Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - William L Hwang
- Center for Systems Biology, Department of Radiation Oncology, Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Harvard University, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, Cambridge, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Gao Y, Li J, Cheng W, Diao T, Liu H, Bo Y, Liu C, Zhou W, Chen M, Zhang Y, Liu Z, Han W, Chen R, Peng J, Zhu L, Hou W, Zhang Z. Cross-tissue human fibroblast atlas reveals myofibroblast subtypes with distinct roles in immune modulation. Cancer Cell 2024:S1535-6108(24)00319-2. [PMID: 39303725 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccell.2024.08.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2024] [Accepted: 08/28/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024]
Abstract
Fibroblasts, known for their functional diversity, play crucial roles in inflammation and cancer. In this study, we conduct comprehensive single-cell RNA sequencing analyses on fibroblast cells from 517 human samples, spanning 11 tissue types and diverse pathological states. We identify distinct fibroblast subpopulations with universal and tissue-specific characteristics. Pathological conditions lead to significant shifts in fibroblast compositions, including the expansion of immune-modulating fibroblasts during inflammation and tissue-remodeling myofibroblasts in cancer. Within the myofibroblast category, we identify four transcriptionally distinct subpopulations originating from different developmental origins, with LRRC15+ myofibroblasts displaying terminally differentiated features. Both LRRC15+ and MMP1+ myofibroblasts demonstrate pro-tumor potential that contribute to the immune-excluded and immune-suppressive tumor microenvironments (TMEs), whereas PI16+ fibroblasts show potential anti-tumor functions in adjacent non-cancerous regions. Fibroblast-subtype compositions define patient subtypes with distinct clinical outcomes. This study advances our understanding of fibroblast biology and suggests potential therapeutic strategies for targeting specific fibroblast subsets in cancer treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yang Gao
- School of Chemical Biology and Biotechnology, Shenzhen Graduate School, Peking University, Shenzhen 518055, China; Institute of Cancer Research, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen 518132, China
| | - Jianan Li
- Changping Laboratory, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Wenfeng Cheng
- Biomedical Pioneering Innovation Center (BIOPIC), Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, and School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Tian Diao
- Biomedical Pioneering Innovation Center (BIOPIC), Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, and School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Huilan Liu
- Biomedical Pioneering Innovation Center (BIOPIC), Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, and School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Yufei Bo
- Biomedical Pioneering Innovation Center (BIOPIC), Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, and School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Chang Liu
- Biomedical Pioneering Innovation Center (BIOPIC), Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, and School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Wei Zhou
- Institute of Cancer Research, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen 518132, China
| | - Minmin Chen
- Institute of Cancer Research, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen 518132, China
| | - Yuanyuan Zhang
- Biomedical Pioneering Innovation Center (BIOPIC), Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, and School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China; State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Zhihua Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Weidong Han
- Department of Bio-therapeutic, the First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, China
| | - Rufu Chen
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou 510180, China
| | - Jirun Peng
- Department of Surgery, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100038, China; Ninth School of Clinical Medicine, Peking University, Beijing 100038, China
| | - Linnan Zhu
- Biomedical Pioneering Innovation Center (BIOPIC), Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, and School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Wenhong Hou
- The First Dongguan Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan 523710, China.
| | - Zemin Zhang
- Biomedical Pioneering Innovation Center (BIOPIC), Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, and School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Eremina OE, Vazquez C, Larson KN, Mouchawar A, Fernando A, Zavaleta C. The evolution of immune profiling: will there be a role for nanoparticles? NANOSCALE HORIZONS 2024. [PMID: 39254004 DOI: 10.1039/d4nh00279b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/11/2024]
Abstract
Immune profiling provides insights into the functioning of the immune system, including the distribution, abundance, and activity of immune cells. This understanding is essential for deciphering how the immune system responds to pathogens, vaccines, tumors, and other stimuli. Analyzing diverse immune cell types facilitates the development of personalized medicine approaches by characterizing individual variations in immune responses. With detailed immune profiles, clinicians can tailor treatment strategies to the specific immune status and needs of each patient, maximizing therapeutic efficacy while minimizing adverse effects. In this review, we discuss the evolution of immune profiling, from interrogating bulk cell samples in solution to evaluating the spatially-rich molecular profiles across intact preserved tissue sections. We also review various multiplexed imaging platforms recently developed, based on immunofluorescence and imaging mass spectrometry, and their impact on the field of immune profiling. Identifying and localizing various immune cell types across a patient's sample has already provided important insights into understanding disease progression, the development of novel targeted therapies, and predicting treatment response. We also offer a new perspective by highlighting the unprecedented potential of nanoparticles (NPs) that can open new horizons in immune profiling. NPs are known to provide enhanced detection sensitivity, targeting specificity, biocompatibility, stability, multimodal imaging features, and multiplexing capabilities. Therefore, we summarize the recent developments and advantages of NPs, which can contribute to advancing our understanding of immune function to facilitate precision medicine. Overall, NPs have the potential to offer a versatile and robust approach to profile the immune system with improved efficiency and multiplexed imaging power.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olga E Eremina
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089, USA.
- Michelson Center for Convergent Bioscience, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089, USA
| | - Celine Vazquez
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089, USA.
- Michelson Center for Convergent Bioscience, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089, USA
| | - Kimberly N Larson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089, USA.
- Michelson Center for Convergent Bioscience, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089, USA
| | - Anthony Mouchawar
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089, USA.
- Michelson Center for Convergent Bioscience, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089, USA
| | - Augusta Fernando
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089, USA.
- Michelson Center for Convergent Bioscience, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089, USA
| | - Cristina Zavaleta
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089, USA.
- Michelson Center for Convergent Bioscience, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Athavale D, Balch C, Zhang Y, Yao X, Song S. The role of Hippo/YAP1 in cancer-associated fibroblasts: Literature review and future perspectives. Cancer Lett 2024; 604:217244. [PMID: 39260668 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.217244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2024] [Revised: 08/27/2024] [Accepted: 09/07/2024] [Indexed: 09/13/2024]
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are activated fibroblasts that play a role in numerous malignant phenotypes, including hyperproliferation, invasion, and metastasis. These phenotypes correlate with activity of the Hippo pathway oncoprotein, Yes-associated protein-1 (YAP1), and its paralog, transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ). YAP1/TAZ are normally involved in organ growth, under the regulation of various kinases and upon phosphorylation, are retained in the cytoplasm by chaperone proteins, leading to their proteasomal degradation. In CAFs and tumor cells, however, a lack of YAP1 phosphorylation results in its translocation to the nucleus, binding to TEAD transcription factors, and activation of mitogenic pathways. In this review we summarize the literature discussing the central role of YAP1 in CAF activation, the upstream cues that promote YAP1-mediated CAF activation and extracellular matrix remodeling, and how CAFs mediate tumor-stroma crosstalk to support progression, invasion and metastasis in various cancer models. We further highlight YAP1+CAFs functions in modulating an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment and propose evaluation of several YAP1 targets regarding their role in regulating intra-tumoral immune landscapes. Finally, we propose that co-administration of YAP1- targeted therapies with immune checkpoint inhibitors can improve therapeutic outcomes in patients with advanced tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dipti Athavale
- Coriell Institute for Medical Research, 403 Haddon Ave, Camden, NJ, 08103, USA
| | - Curt Balch
- Coriell Institute for Medical Research, 403 Haddon Ave, Camden, NJ, 08103, USA
| | - Yanting Zhang
- Coriell Institute for Medical Research, 403 Haddon Ave, Camden, NJ, 08103, USA
| | - Xiaodan Yao
- Coriell Institute for Medical Research, 403 Haddon Ave, Camden, NJ, 08103, USA
| | - Shumei Song
- Coriell Institute for Medical Research, 403 Haddon Ave, Camden, NJ, 08103, USA; MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper, Cooper University Hospital, 2 Cooper Plaza, Camden, NJ, 08103, USA; Departments of Surgery and Biomedical Sciences, Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, 401 Broadway, Camden, NJ, 08103, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Sun Y, Yinwang E, Wang S, Wang Z, Wang F, Xue Y, Zhang W, Zhao S, Mou H, Chen S, Jin L, Li B, Ye Z. Phenotypic and spatial heterogeneity of CD8 + tumour infiltrating lymphocytes. Mol Cancer 2024; 23:193. [PMID: 39251981 PMCID: PMC11382426 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-024-02104-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 08/30/2024] [Indexed: 09/11/2024] Open
Abstract
CD8+ T cells are the workhorses executing adaptive anti-tumour response, and targets of various cancer immunotherapies. Latest advances have unearthed the sheer heterogeneity of CD8+ tumour infiltrating lymphocytes, and made it increasingly clear that the bulk of the endogenous and therapeutically induced tumour-suppressive momentum hinges on a particular selection of CD8+ T cells with advantageous attributes, namely the memory and stem-like exhausted subsets. A scrutiny of the contemporary perception of CD8+ T cells in cancer and the subgroups of interest along with the factors arbitrating their infiltration contextures, presented herein, may serve as the groundwork for future endeavours to probe further into the regulatory networks underlying their differentiation and migration, and optimise T cell-based immunotherapies accordingly.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yikan Sun
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Orthopedics, Musculoskeletal Tumor Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang, University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Eloy Yinwang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Orthopedics, Musculoskeletal Tumor Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang, University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Shengdong Wang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Orthopedics, Musculoskeletal Tumor Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang, University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Zenan Wang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Orthopedics, Musculoskeletal Tumor Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang, University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Fangqian Wang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Orthopedics, Musculoskeletal Tumor Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang, University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Yucheng Xue
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Orthopedics, Musculoskeletal Tumor Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang, University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Wenkan Zhang
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Orthopedics, Musculoskeletal Tumor Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang, University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Shenzhi Zhao
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Orthopedics, Musculoskeletal Tumor Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang, University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Haochen Mou
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Orthopedics, Musculoskeletal Tumor Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang, University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Shixin Chen
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Orthopedics, Musculoskeletal Tumor Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang, University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Lingxiao Jin
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Orthopedics, Musculoskeletal Tumor Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang, University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Binghao Li
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Department of Orthopedics, Musculoskeletal Tumor Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang, University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China.
| | - Zhaoming Ye
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Orthopedics Research Institute of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Key Laboratory of Motor System Disease Research and Precision Therapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Department of Orthopedics, Musculoskeletal Tumor Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang, University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Cords L, de Souza N, Bodenmiller B. Classifying cancer-associated fibroblasts-The good, the bad, and the target. Cancer Cell 2024; 42:1480-1485. [PMID: 39255773 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccell.2024.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2024] [Revised: 07/16/2024] [Accepted: 08/09/2024] [Indexed: 09/12/2024]
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are heterogeneous and ubiquitous stromal cells within the tumor microenvironment (TME). Numerous CAF types have been described, typically using single-cell technologies such as single-cell RNA sequencing. There is no general classification system for CAFs, hampering their study and therapeutic targeting. We propose a simple CAF classification system based on single-cell phenotypes and spatial locations of CAFs in multiple cancer types, assess how our scheme fits within current knowledge, and invite the CAF research community to further refine it.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lena Cords
- University of Zurich, Department of Quantitative Biomedicine, Zurich, Switzerland; ETH Zurich, Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Natalie de Souza
- University of Zurich, Department of Quantitative Biomedicine, Zurich, Switzerland; ETH Zurich, Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, Zurich, Switzerland; ETH Zurich, Institute of Molecular Systems Biology, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Bernd Bodenmiller
- University of Zurich, Department of Quantitative Biomedicine, Zurich, Switzerland; ETH Zurich, Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, Zurich, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Liu X, Ping G, Ji D, Wen Z, Chen Y. Reclassify High-Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer Patients Into Different Molecular Subtypes With Discrepancy Prognoses and Therapeutic Responses Based on Cancer-Associated Fibroblast-Enriched Prognostic Genes. Biomed Eng Comput Biol 2024; 15:11795972241274024. [PMID: 39221174 PMCID: PMC11365035 DOI: 10.1177/11795972241274024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play critical roles in the metastasis and therapeutic response of high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSC). Our study intended to select HGSC patients with unfavorable prognoses and therapeutic responses based on CAF-enriched prognostic genes. The bulk RNA and single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data of tumor tissues were collected from the TCGA and GEO databases. The infiltrated levels of immune and stromal cells were estimated by multiple immune deconvolution algorithms and verified through immunohistochemical analysis. The univariate Cox regression analyses were used to identify prognostic genes. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) was conducted to annotate enriched gene sets. The Genomics of Drug Sensitivity in Cancer (GDSC) database was used to explore potential alternative drugs. We found the infiltered levels of CAFs were remarkedly elevated in advanced and metastatic HGSC tissues and identified hundreds of genes specifically enriched in CAFs. Then we selected 6 CAF-enriched prognostic genes based on which HGSC patients were reclassified into 2 subclusters with discrepancy prognoses. Further analysis revealed that the HGSC patients in cluster-2 tended to undergo poor responses to traditional chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Subsequently, we selected 24 novel potential therapeutic drugs for cluster-2 HGSC patients. Moreover, we discovered a positive correlation of infiltrated levels between CAFs and monocytes/macrophages in HGSC tissues. Collectively, our study successfully reclassified HGSC patients into 2 different subgroups that have discrepancy prognoses and responses to current therapeutic methods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiangxiang Liu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Women’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Women and Children’s Healthcare Hospital, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Guoqiang Ping
- Department of Pathology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Dongze Ji
- Department of Pathology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhifa Wen
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Women’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Women and Children’s Healthcare Hospital, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yajun Chen
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Women’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Women and Children’s Healthcare Hospital, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Hu Q, Remsing Rix LL, Desai B, Miroshnychenko D, Li X, Welsh EA, Fang B, Wright GM, Chaudhary N, Kroeger JL, Doebele RC, Koomen JM, Haura EB, Marusyk A, Rix U. Cancer-associated fibroblasts confer ALK inhibitor resistance in EML4-ALK -driven lung cancer via concurrent integrin and MET signaling. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.08.27.609975. [PMID: 39253447 PMCID: PMC11383036 DOI: 10.1101/2024.08.27.609975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/11/2024]
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are associated with tumor progression and modulate drug sensitivity of cancer cells. However, the underlying mechanisms are often incompletely understood and crosstalk between tumor cells and CAFs involves soluble secreted as well as adhesion proteins. Interrogating a panel of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cell lines driven by EML4-ALK fusions, we observed substantial CAF-mediated drug resistance to clinical ALK tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). Array-based cytokine profiling of fibroblast-derived conditioned- media identified HGF-MET signaling as a major contributor to CAF-mediated paracrine resistance that can be overcome by MET TKIs. However, 'Cell Type specific labeling using Amino acid Precursors' (CTAP)-based expression and phosphoproteomics in direct coculture also highlighted a critical role for the fibronectin-integrin pathway. Flow cytometry analysis confirmed activation of integrin β1 (ITGB1) in lung cancer cells by CAF coculture. Treatment with pharmacological inhibitors, cancer cell-specific silencing or CRISPR-Cas9-mediated knockout of ITGB1 overcame adhesion protein-mediated resistance. Concurrent targeting of MET and integrin signaling effectively abrogated CAF-mediated resistance of EML4-ALK -driven NSCLC cells to ALK TKIs in vitro . Consistently, combination of the ALK TKI alectinib with the MET TKI capmatinib and/or the integrin inhibitor cilengitide was significantly more efficacious than single agent treatment in suppressing tumor growth using an in vivo EML4-ALK -dependent allograft mouse model of NSCLC. In summary, these findings emphasize the complexity of resistance-associated crosstalk between CAFs and cancer cells, which can involve multiple concurrent signaling pathways, and illustrate how comprehensive elucidation of paracrine and juxtacrine resistance mechanisms can inform on more effective therapeutic approaches.
Collapse
|
12
|
Ufimtseva EG, Gileva MS, Kostenko RV, Kozlov VV, Gulyaeva LF. Development of Ex Vivo Analysis for Examining Cell Composition, Immunological Landscape, Tumor and Immune Related Markers in Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2886. [PMID: 39199657 PMCID: PMC11352364 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16162886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2024] [Revised: 07/11/2024] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
NSCLC is a very aggressive solid tumor, with a poor prognosis due to post-surgical recurrence. Analysis of the specific tumor and immune signatures of NSCLC samples is a critical step in prognostic evaluation and management decisions for patients after surgery. Routine histological assays have some limitations. Therefore, new diagnostic tools with the capability to quickly recognize NSCLC subtypes and correctly identify various markers are needed. We developed a technique for ex vivo isolation of cancer and immune cells from surgical tumor and lung tissue samples of patients with NSCLC (adenocarcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas) and their examination on ex vivo cell preparations and, parallelly, on histological sections after Romanovsky-Giemsa and immunofluorescent/immunochemical staining for cancer-specific and immune-related markers. As a result, PD-L1 expression was detected for some patients only by ex vivo analysis. Immune cell profiling in the tumor microenvironment revealed significant differences in the immunological landscapes between the patients' tumors, with smokers' macrophages with simultaneous expression of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines, neutrophils, and eosinophils being the dominant populations. The proposed ex vivo analysis may be used as an additional diagnostic tool for quick examination of cancer and immune cells in whole tumor samples and to avoid false negatives in histological assays.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elena G. Ufimtseva
- Federal Research Center of Fundamental and Translational Medicine, 2 Timakova Street, 630060 Novosibirsk, Russia;
| | - Margarita S. Gileva
- V. Zelman Institute for the Medicine and Psychology, Novosibirsk State University, 1 Pirogova Street, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia;
| | - Ruslan V. Kostenko
- Novosibirsk Regional Clinical Oncology Dispensary, 2 Plakhotny Street, 630108 Novosibirsk, Russia; (R.V.K.); (V.V.K.)
| | - Vadim V. Kozlov
- Novosibirsk Regional Clinical Oncology Dispensary, 2 Plakhotny Street, 630108 Novosibirsk, Russia; (R.V.K.); (V.V.K.)
- Faculty of General Medicine, Novosibirsk State Medical University, 52 Krasny Prospect, 630091 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Lyudmila F. Gulyaeva
- Federal Research Center of Fundamental and Translational Medicine, 2 Timakova Street, 630060 Novosibirsk, Russia;
- V. Zelman Institute for the Medicine and Psychology, Novosibirsk State University, 1 Pirogova Street, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia;
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Long F, Zhong W, Zhao F, Xu Y, Hu X, Jia G, Huang L, Yi K, Wang N, Si H, Wang J, Wang B, Rong Y, Yuan Y, Yuan C, Wang F. DAB2 + macrophages support FAP + fibroblasts in shaping tumor barrier and inducing poor clinical outcomes in liver cancer. Theranostics 2024; 14:4822-4843. [PMID: 39239526 PMCID: PMC11373629 DOI: 10.7150/thno.99046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 09/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are the key components of the immune barrier in liver cancer. Therefore, gaining a deeper understanding of the heterogeneity and intercellular communication of CAFs holds utmost importance in boosting immunotherapy effectiveness and improving clinical outcomes. Methods: A comprehensive analysis by combing single-cell, bulk, and spatial transcriptome profiling with multiplexed immunofluorescence was conducted to unravel the complexities of CAFs in liver cancer. Results: Through an integrated approach involving 235 liver cancer scRNA-seq samples encompassing over 1.2 million cells, we found that CAFs were particularly increased in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC). FAP + fibroblasts were identified as the dominant subtype of CAFs, and which were mainly involved in extracellular matrix organization and angiogenesis. These CAFs were enriched in the tumor boundary of HCC, but diffusely scattered within ICC. The DAB2 + and SPP1 + tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) reinforce the function of FAP + CAFs through signals such as TGF-β, PDGF, and ADM. Notably, the interaction between DAB2 + TAMs and FAP + CAFs promoted the formation of immune barrier and correlated with poorer patient survival, non-response to immunotherapy in HCC. High FAP and DAB2 immunohistochemical scores predicted shorter survival and higher serum AFP concentration in a local clinical cohort of 90 HCC patients. Furthermore, this communication pattern might be applicable to other solid malignancies as well. Conclusions: The interaction between DAB2 + TAMs and FAP + CAFs appears crucial in shaping the immune barrier. Strategies aimed at disrupting this communication or inhibiting the functions of FAP + CAFs could potentially enhance immunotherapy effectiveness and improve clinical outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fei Long
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Center for Single-Cell Omics and Tumor Liquid Biopsy, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Wei Zhong
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Center for Single-Cell Omics and Tumor Liquid Biopsy, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Faming Zhao
- Center for Single-Cell Omics and Tumor Liquid Biopsy, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yaqi Xu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Center for Single-Cell Omics and Tumor Liquid Biopsy, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xin Hu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Center for Single-Cell Omics and Tumor Liquid Biopsy, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Gaihua Jia
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Center for Single-Cell Omics and Tumor Liquid Biopsy, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Lanxiang Huang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Center for Single-Cell Omics and Tumor Liquid Biopsy, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Kezhen Yi
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Center for Single-Cell Omics and Tumor Liquid Biopsy, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Na Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Center for Single-Cell Omics and Tumor Liquid Biopsy, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Huaqi Si
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Center for Single-Cell Omics and Tumor Liquid Biopsy, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jun Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Wuhan Children's Hospital (Wuhan Maternal and Child Healthcare Hospital), Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Bicheng Wang
- Department of Pathology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuan Rong
- Center for Single-Cell Omics and Tumor Liquid Biopsy, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yufeng Yuan
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Chunhui Yuan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Wuhan Children's Hospital (Wuhan Maternal and Child Healthcare Hospital), Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Fubing Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Center for Single-Cell Omics and Tumor Liquid Biopsy, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Wuhan Research Center for Infectious Diseases and Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Wuhan, China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Huang Z, Xie T, Xie W, Chen Z, Wen Z, Yang L. Research trends in lung cancer and the tumor microenvironment: a bibliometric analysis of studies published from 2014 to 2023. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1428018. [PMID: 39144829 PMCID: PMC11322073 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1428018] [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: 05/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Lung cancer (LC) is one of the most common malignant tumors in the world and the leading cause of cancer-related deaths, which seriously threatens human life and health as well as brings a heavy burden to the society. In recent years, the tumor microenvironment (TME) has become an emerging research field and hotspot affecting tumor pathogenesis and therapeutic approaches. However, to date, there has been no bibliometric analysis of lung cancer and the tumor microenvironment from 2014 to 2023.This study aims to comprehensively summarize the current situation and development trends in the field from a bibliometric perspective. Methods The publications about lung cancer and the tumor microenvironment from 2014 to 2023 were extracted from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC). The Microsoft Excel, Origin, R-bibliometrix, CiteSpace, and VOSviewer software are comprehensively used to scientifically analyze the data. Results Totally, 763 publications were identified in this study. A rapid increase in the number of publications was observed after 2018. More than 400 organizations published these publications in 36 countries or regions. China and the United States have significant influence in this field. Zhou, CC and Frontiers in Immunology are the most productive authors and journals respectively. Besides, the most frequently cited references were those on lung cancer pathogenesis, clinical trials, and treatment modalities. It suggests that novel lung cancer treatment models mainly based on the TME components, such as cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) may lead to future research trends. Conclusions The field of lung cancer and the tumor microenvironment research is still in the beginning stages. Gene expression, molecular pathways, therapeutic modalities, and novel detection technologies in this field have been widely studied by researchers. This is the first bibliometric study to comprehensively summarize the research trend and development regarding lung cancer and tumor microenvironment over the last decade. The result of our research provides the updated perspective for scholars to understand the key information and cutting-edge hotspots in this field, as well as to identify future research directions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhilan Huang
- The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Tingyi Xie
- The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Wei Xie
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhuni Chen
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhiyuan Wen
- The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Lin Yang
- The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Arceneaux JS, Brockman AA, Khurana R, Chalkley MBL, Geben LC, Krbanjevic A, Vestal M, Zafar M, Weatherspoon S, Mobley BC, Ess KC, Ihrie RA. Multiparameter quantitative analyses of diagnostic cells in brain tissues from tuberous sclerosis complex. CYTOMETRY. PART B, CLINICAL CYTOMETRY 2024. [PMID: 38953209 DOI: 10.1002/cyto.b.22194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024]
Abstract
The advent of high-dimensional imaging offers new opportunities to molecularly characterize diagnostic cells in disorders that have previously relied on histopathological definitions. One example case is found in tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC), a developmental disorder characterized by systemic growth of benign tumors. Within resected brain tissues from patients with TSC, detection of abnormally enlarged balloon cells (BCs) is pathognomonic for this disorder. Though BCs can be identified by an expert neuropathologist, little is known about the specificity and broad applicability of protein markers for these cells, complicating classification of proposed BCs identified in experimental models of this disorder. Here, we report the development of a customized machine learning pipeline (BAlloon IDENtifier; BAIDEN) that was trained to prospectively identify BCs in tissue sections using a histological stain compatible with high-dimensional cytometry. This approach was coupled to a custom 36-antibody panel and imaging mass cytometry (IMC) to explore the expression of multiple previously proposed BC marker proteins and develop a descriptor of BC features conserved across multiple tissue samples from patients with TSC. Here, we present a modular workflow encompassing BAIDEN, a custom antibody panel, a control sample microarray, and analysis pipelines-both open-source and in-house-and apply this workflow to understand the abundance, structure, and signaling activity of BCs as an example case of how high-dimensional imaging can be applied within human tissues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jerome S Arceneaux
- Department of Biochemistry, Cancer Biology, Neuroscience, and Pharmacology, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Asa A Brockman
- Department of Cell & Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Rohit Khurana
- Department of Cell & Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Mary-Bronwen L Chalkley
- Department of Cell & Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Laura C Geben
- Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Aleksandar Krbanjevic
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, & Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Matthew Vestal
- Duke University Children's Hospital and Health Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Muhammad Zafar
- Duke University Children's Hospital and Health Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Sarah Weatherspoon
- Neuroscience Institute, Le Bonheur Children's Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Bret C Mobley
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, & Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Kevin C Ess
- Department of Cell & Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
- Department of Neurology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
- Section of Child Neurology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Center, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Rebecca A Ihrie
- Department of Cell & Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
El Herch I, Tornaas S, Dongre HN, Costea DE. Heterogeneity of cancer-associated fibroblasts and tumor-promoting roles in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Front Mol Biosci 2024; 11:1340024. [PMID: 38966131 PMCID: PMC11222324 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2024.1340024] [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: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Tumor microenvironment (TME) in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) has a major influence on disease progression and therapy response. One of the predominant stromal cell types in the TME of HNSCC is cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF). CAF constitute a diverse cell population and we are only at the beginning of characterizing and understanding the functions of various CAF subsets. CAF have been shown to interact with tumor cells and other components of the TME to shape mainly a favourable microenvironment for HNSCC progression, although some studies report existence of tumor-restraining CAF subtypes. The numerous pathways used by CAF to promote tumorigenesis may represent potential therapeutic targets. This review summarizes current knowledge on the origins, subtypes and mechanisms employed by CAF in HNSCC. The aim is to contribute to the understanding on how CAF actively influence the TME and modulate different immune cell types, as well as cancer cells, to establish a conducive setting for cancer growth. Although CAF are currently a promising therapeutic target for the treatment of other types of cancer, there is no significant therapeutic advancement in HNSCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Imane El Herch
- University of Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, INSERM 1052, CNRS 5286, Centre Léon Bérard, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Lyon, Lyon, France
- Gade Laboratory for Pathology, Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers (CCBIO), Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Stian Tornaas
- Gade Laboratory for Pathology, Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers (CCBIO), Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Harsh Nitin Dongre
- Gade Laboratory for Pathology, Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers (CCBIO), Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Daniela Elena Costea
- Gade Laboratory for Pathology, Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers (CCBIO), Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Enfield KS, Colliver E, Lee C, Magness A, Moore DA, Sivakumar M, Grigoriadis K, Pich O, Karasaki T, Hobson PS, Levi D, Veeriah S, Puttick C, Nye EL, Green M, Dijkstra KK, Shimato M, Akarca AU, Marafioti T, Salgado R, Hackshaw A, Jamal-Hanjani M, van Maldegem F, McGranahan N, Glass B, Pulaski H, Walk E, Reading JL, Quezada SA, Hiley CT, Downward J, Sahai E, Swanton C, Angelova M. Spatial Architecture of Myeloid and T Cells Orchestrates Immune Evasion and Clinical Outcome in Lung Cancer. Cancer Discov 2024; 14:1018-1047. [PMID: 38581685 PMCID: PMC11145179 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-23-1380] [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: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
Understanding the role of the tumor microenvironment (TME) in lung cancer is critical to improving patient outcomes. We identified four histology-independent archetype TMEs in treatment-naïve early-stage lung cancer using imaging mass cytometry in the TRACERx study (n = 81 patients/198 samples/2.3 million cells). In immune-hot adenocarcinomas, spatial niches of T cells and macrophages increased with clonal neoantigen burden, whereas such an increase was observed for niches of plasma and B cells in immune-excluded squamous cell carcinomas (LUSC). Immune-low TMEs were associated with fibroblast barriers to immune infiltration. The fourth archetype, characterized by sparse lymphocytes and high tumor-associated neutrophil (TAN) infiltration, had tumor cells spatially separated from vasculature and exhibited low spatial intratumor heterogeneity. TAN-high LUSC had frequent PIK3CA mutations. TAN-high tumors harbored recently expanded and metastasis-seeding subclones and had a shorter disease-free survival independent of stage. These findings delineate genomic, immune, and physical barriers to immune surveillance and implicate neutrophil-rich TMEs in metastasis. SIGNIFICANCE This study provides novel insights into the spatial organization of the lung cancer TME in the context of tumor immunogenicity, tumor heterogeneity, and cancer evolution. Pairing the tumor evolutionary history with the spatially resolved TME suggests mechanistic hypotheses for tumor progression and metastasis with implications for patient outcome and treatment. This article is featured in Selected Articles from This Issue, p. 897.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katey S.S. Enfield
- Cancer Evolution and Genome Instability Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Emma Colliver
- Cancer Evolution and Genome Instability Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Claudia Lee
- Cancer Evolution and Genome Instability Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Alastair Magness
- Cancer Evolution and Genome Instability Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - David A. Moore
- Cancer Evolution and Genome Instability Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
- Cancer Research UK Lung Cancer Centre of Excellence, University College London Cancer Institute, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Cellular Pathology, University College London Hospitals, London, United Kingdom
| | - Monica Sivakumar
- Cancer Research UK Lung Cancer Centre of Excellence, University College London Cancer Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kristiana Grigoriadis
- Cancer Evolution and Genome Instability Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
- Cancer Research UK Lung Cancer Centre of Excellence, University College London Cancer Institute, London, United Kingdom
- Cancer Genome Evolution Research Group, Cancer Research UK Lung Cancer Centre of Excellence, University College London Cancer Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Oriol Pich
- Cancer Evolution and Genome Instability Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Takahiro Karasaki
- Cancer Evolution and Genome Instability Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
- Cancer Research UK Lung Cancer Centre of Excellence, University College London Cancer Institute, London, United Kingdom
- Cancer Metastasis Laboratory, University College London Cancer Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Philip S. Hobson
- Flow Cytometry, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Dina Levi
- Flow Cytometry, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Selvaraju Veeriah
- Cancer Research UK Lung Cancer Centre of Excellence, University College London Cancer Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Clare Puttick
- Cancer Evolution and Genome Instability Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
- Cancer Research UK Lung Cancer Centre of Excellence, University College London Cancer Institute, London, United Kingdom
- Cancer Genome Evolution Research Group, Cancer Research UK Lung Cancer Centre of Excellence, University College London Cancer Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Emma L. Nye
- Experimental Histopathology, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mary Green
- Experimental Histopathology, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Krijn K. Dijkstra
- Cancer Evolution and Genome Instability Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Masako Shimato
- Cancer Evolution and Genome Instability Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ayse U. Akarca
- Department of Cellular Pathology, University College London Hospitals, London, United Kingdom
| | - Teresa Marafioti
- Department of Cellular Pathology, University College London Hospitals, London, United Kingdom
| | - Roberto Salgado
- Department of Pathology, ZAS Hospitals, Antwerp, Belgium
- Division of Research, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Allan Hackshaw
- Cancer Research UK and University College London Cancer Trials Centre, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Mariam Jamal-Hanjani
- Cancer Research UK Lung Cancer Centre of Excellence, University College London Cancer Institute, London, United Kingdom
- Cancer Metastasis Laboratory, University College London Cancer Institute, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Oncology, University College London Hospitals, London, United Kingdom
| | - Febe van Maldegem
- Oncogene Biology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Nicholas McGranahan
- Cancer Research UK Lung Cancer Centre of Excellence, University College London Cancer Institute, London, United Kingdom
- Cancer Genome Evolution Research Group, Cancer Research UK Lung Cancer Centre of Excellence, University College London Cancer Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | - James L. Reading
- Cancer Research UK Lung Cancer Centre of Excellence, University College London Cancer Institute, London, United Kingdom
- Pre-cancer Immunology Laboratory, University College London Cancer Institute, London, United Kingdom
- Immune Regulation and Tumour Immunotherapy Group, Cancer Immunology Unit, Research Department of Haematology, University College London Cancer Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sergio A. Quezada
- Cancer Research UK Lung Cancer Centre of Excellence, University College London Cancer Institute, London, United Kingdom
- Immune Regulation and Tumour Immunotherapy Group, Cancer Immunology Unit, Research Department of Haematology, University College London Cancer Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Crispin T. Hiley
- Cancer Evolution and Genome Instability Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
- Cancer Research UK Lung Cancer Centre of Excellence, University College London Cancer Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Julian Downward
- Oncogene Biology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Erik Sahai
- Tumour Cell Biology Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Charles Swanton
- Cancer Evolution and Genome Instability Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
- Cancer Research UK Lung Cancer Centre of Excellence, University College London Cancer Institute, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Oncology, University College London Hospitals, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mihaela Angelova
- Cancer Evolution and Genome Instability Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Dhungel N, Dragoi AM. Exploring the multifaceted role of direct interaction between cancer cells and fibroblasts in cancer progression. Front Mol Biosci 2024; 11:1379971. [PMID: 38863965 PMCID: PMC11165130 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2024.1379971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
The interaction between the tumor microenvironment (TME) and the cancer cells is a complex and mutually beneficial system that leads to rapid cancer cells proliferation, metastasis, and resistance to therapy. It is now recognized that cancer cells are not isolated, and tumor progression is governed among others, by many components of the TME. The reciprocal cross-talk between cancer cells and their microenvironment can be indirect through the secretion of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins and paracrine signaling through exosomes, cytokines, and growth factors, or direct by cell-to-cell contact mediated by cell surface receptors and adhesion molecules. Among TME components, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are of unique interest. As one of the most abundant components of the TME, CAFs play key roles in the reorganization of the extracellular matrix, facilitating metastasis and chemotherapy evasion. Both direct and indirect roles have been described for CAFs in modulating tumor progression. In this review, we focus on recent advances in understanding the role of direct contact between cancer cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in driving tumor development and metastasis. We also summarize recent findings on the role of direct contact between cancer cells and CAFs in chemotherapy resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nilu Dhungel
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, LSUHSC, Shreveport, LA, United States
| | - Ana-Maria Dragoi
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, LSUHSC, Shreveport, LA, United States
- Feist-Weiller Cancer Center, INLET Core, LSUHSC, Shreveport, LA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Milosevic V, Östman A. Interactions between cancer-associated fibroblasts and T-cells: functional crosstalk with targeting and biomarker potential. Ups J Med Sci 2024; 129:10710. [PMID: 38863724 PMCID: PMC11165253 DOI: 10.48101/ujms.v129.10710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are a heterogeneous cell population recognized as a key component of the tumour microenvironment (TME). Cancer-associated fibroblasts are known to play an important role in maintaining and remodelling the extracellular matrix (ECM) in the tumour stroma, supporting cancer progression and inhibiting the immune system's response against cancer cells. This review aims to summarize the immunomodulatory roles of CAFs, particularly focussing on their T-cell suppressive effects. Cancer-associated fibroblasts have several ways by which they can affect the tumour's immune microenvironment (TIME). For example, their interactions with macrophages and dendritic cells (DCs) create an immunosuppressive milieu that can indirectly affect T-cell anticancer immunity and enable immune evasion. In addition, a number of recent studies have confirmed CAF-mediated direct suppressive effects on T-cell anticancer capacity through ECM remodelling, promoting the expression of immune checkpoints, cytokine secretion and the release of extracellular vesicles. The consequential impact of CAFs on T-cell function is then reflected in affecting T-cell proliferation and apoptosis, migration and infiltration, differentiation and exhaustion. Emerging evidence highlights the existence of specific CAF subsets with distinct capabilities to modulate the immune landscape of TME in various cancers, suggesting the possibility of their exploitation as possible prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vladan Milosevic
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Arne Östman
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Mathieson L, Koppensteiner L, Dorward DA, O'Connor RA, Akram AR. Cancer-associated fibroblasts expressing fibroblast activation protein and podoplanin in non-small cell lung cancer predict poor clinical outcome. Br J Cancer 2024; 130:1758-1769. [PMID: 38582812 PMCID: PMC11130154 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-024-02671-1] [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: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are a dominant cell type in the stroma of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Fibroblast heterogeneity reflects subpopulations of CAFs, which can influence prognosis and treatment efficacy. We describe the subtypes of CAFs in NSCLC. METHODS Primary human NSCLC resections were assessed by flow cytometry and multiplex immunofluorescence for markers of fibroblast activation which allowed identification of CAF subsets. Survival data were analysed for our NSCLC cohort consisting of 163 patients to understand prognostic significance of CAF subsets. RESULTS We identified five CAF populations, termed CAF S1-S5. CAF-S5 represents a previously undescribed population, and express FAP and PDPN but lack the myofibroblast marker αSMA, whereas CAF-S1 populations express all three. CAF-S5 are spatially further from tumour regions then CAF-S1 and scRNA data demonstrate an inflammatory phenotype. The presence of CAF-S1 or CAF-S5 is correlated to worse survival outcome in NSCLC, despite curative resection, highlighting the prognostic importance of CAF subtypes in NSCLC. TCGA data suggest the predominance of CAF-S5 has a poor prognosis across several cancer types. CONCLUSION This study describes the fibroblast heterogeneity in NSCLC and the prognostic importance of the novel CAF-S5 subset where its presence correlates to worse survival outcome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Layla Mathieson
- Centre for Inflammation Research, Institute of Regeneration and Repair, University of Edinburgh, 5 Little France Dr, Edinburgh BioQuarter, Edinburgh, EH16 4UU, UK
- Translational Healthcare Technologies Group, Centre for Inflammation Research, Institute of Regeneration and Repair, University of Edinburgh, 5 Little France Dr, Edinburgh BioQuarter, Edinburgh, EH16 4UU, UK
| | - Lilian Koppensteiner
- Centre for Inflammation Research, Institute of Regeneration and Repair, University of Edinburgh, 5 Little France Dr, Edinburgh BioQuarter, Edinburgh, EH16 4UU, UK
- Translational Healthcare Technologies Group, Centre for Inflammation Research, Institute of Regeneration and Repair, University of Edinburgh, 5 Little France Dr, Edinburgh BioQuarter, Edinburgh, EH16 4UU, UK
| | - David A Dorward
- Department of Pathology, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Richard A O'Connor
- Centre for Inflammation Research, Institute of Regeneration and Repair, University of Edinburgh, 5 Little France Dr, Edinburgh BioQuarter, Edinburgh, EH16 4UU, UK
- Translational Healthcare Technologies Group, Centre for Inflammation Research, Institute of Regeneration and Repair, University of Edinburgh, 5 Little France Dr, Edinburgh BioQuarter, Edinburgh, EH16 4UU, UK
| | - Ahsan R Akram
- Centre for Inflammation Research, Institute of Regeneration and Repair, University of Edinburgh, 5 Little France Dr, Edinburgh BioQuarter, Edinburgh, EH16 4UU, UK.
- Translational Healthcare Technologies Group, Centre for Inflammation Research, Institute of Regeneration and Repair, University of Edinburgh, 5 Little France Dr, Edinburgh BioQuarter, Edinburgh, EH16 4UU, UK.
- Cancer Research UK Scotland Centre, Institute of Genetics & Cancer, The University of Edinburgh, Crewe Road South, Edinburgh, EH4 2XR, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Friedel J, Pierre S, Kolbinger A, Schäufele TJ, Aliraj B, Weigert A, Scholich K. Mast cell-derived interleukin-4 mediates activation of dendritic cell during toll-like receptor 2-mediated inflammation. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1353922. [PMID: 38745645 PMCID: PMC11091258 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1353922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction During an innate inflammation, immune cells form distinct pro- and anti-inflammatory regions around pathogen-containing core-regions. Mast cells are localized in an anti-inflammatory microenvironment during the resolution of an innate inflammation, suggesting antiinflammatory roles of these cells. Methods High-content imaging was used to investigated mast cell-dependent changes in the regional distribution of immune cells during an inflammation, induced by the toll-like receptor (TLR)-2 agonist zymosan. Results The distance between the zymosan-containing core-region and the anti-inflammatory region, described by M2-like macrophages, increased in mast cell-deficient mice. Absence of mast cells abolished dendritic cell (DC) activation, as determined by CD86-expression and localized the DCs in greater distance to zymosan particles. The CD86- DCs had a higher expression of the pro-inflammatory interleukins (IL)-1β and IL-12/23p40 as compared to activated CD86+ DCs. IL-4 administration restored CD86 expression, cytokine expression profile and localization of the DCs in mast cell-deficient mice. The IL-4 effects were mast cell-specific, since IL-4 reduction by eosinophil depletion did not affect activation of DCs. Discussion We found that mast cells induce DC activation selectively at the site of inflammation and thereby determine their localization within the inflammation. Overall, mast cells have antiinflammatory functions in this inflammation model and limit the size of the pro-inflammatory region surrounding the zymosan-containing core region.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joschua Friedel
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Sandra Pierre
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Anja Kolbinger
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Tim J. Schäufele
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Blerina Aliraj
- Institute of Biochemistry I, Faculty of Medicine, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Andreas Weigert
- Institute of Biochemistry I, Faculty of Medicine, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Klaus Scholich
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
- Fraunhofer Institute for Translational Medicine and Pharmacology ITMP, Frankfurt, Germany
- Fraunhofer Cluster of Excellence for Immune-Mediated Diseases CIMD, Frankfurt, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Adamopoulos C, Papavassiliou KA, Poulikakos PI, Papavassiliou AG. RAF and MEK Inhibitors in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4633. [PMID: 38731852 PMCID: PMC11083651 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25094633] [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: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer, despite recent advancements in survival rates, represents a significant global health burden. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), the most prevalent type, is driven largely by activating mutations in Kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene homologue (KRAS) and receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs), and less in v-RAF murine sarcoma viral oncogene homolog B (BRAF) and mitogen-activated protein-kinase kinase (MEK), all key components of the RTK-RAS-mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway. Learning from melanoma, the identification of BRAFV600E substitution in NSCLC provided the rationale for the investigation of RAF and MEK inhibition as a therapeutic strategy. The regulatory approval of two RAF-MEK inhibitor combinations, dabrafenib-trametinib, in 2017, and encorafenib-binimetinib, in 2023, signifies a breakthrough for the management of BRAFV600E-mutant NSCLC patients. However, the almost universal emergence of acquired resistance limits their clinical benefit. New RAF and MEK inhibitors, with distinct biochemical characteristics, are in preclinical and clinical development. In this review, we aim to provide valuable insights into the current state of RAF and MEK inhibition in the management of NSCLC, fostering a deeper understanding of the potential impact on patient outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christos Adamopoulos
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Precision Immunology Institute, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA;
| | - Kostas A. Papavassiliou
- First University Department of Respiratory Medicine, ‘Sotiria’ Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Poulikos I. Poulikakos
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Precision Immunology Institute, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA;
| | - Athanasios G. Papavassiliou
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Røgenes H, Finne K, Winge I, Akslen LA, Östman A, Milosevic V. Development of 42 marker panel for in-depth study of cancer associated fibroblast niches in breast cancer using imaging mass cytometry. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1325191. [PMID: 38711512 PMCID: PMC11070582 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1325191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Imaging Mass Cytometry (IMC) is a novel, and formidable high multiplexing imaging method emerging as a promising tool for in-depth studying of tissue architecture and intercellular communications. Several studies have reported various IMC antibody panels mainly focused on studying the immunological landscape of the tumor microenvironment (TME). With this paper, we wanted to address cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs), a component of the TME very often underrepresented and not emphasized enough in present IMC studies. Therefore, we focused on the development of a comprehensive IMC panel that can be used for a thorough description of the CAF composition of breast cancer TME and for an in-depth study of different CAF niches in relation to both immune and breast cancer cell communication. We established and validated a 42 marker panel using a variety of control tissues and rigorous quantification methods. The final panel contained 6 CAF-associated markers (aSMA, FAP, PDGFRa, PDGFRb, YAP1, pSMAD2). Breast cancer tissues (4 cases of luminal, 5 cases of triple negative breast cancer) and a modified CELESTA pipeline were used to demonstrate the utility of our IMC panel for detailed profiling of different CAF, immune and cancer cell phenotypes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Røgenes
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers CCBIO, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Kenneth Finne
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers CCBIO, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Ingeborg Winge
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers CCBIO, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Lars A. Akslen
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers CCBIO, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Pathology, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Arne Östman
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers CCBIO, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Sweden
| | - Vladan Milosevic
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers CCBIO, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Papavassiliou KA, Adamopoulos C, Papavassiliou AG. Many faces, many places: delving deeper into CAF heterogeneity in NSCLC. Trends Cancer 2024; 10:277-279. [PMID: 38395732 DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2024.02.004] [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: 02/11/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
In a recent study published in Cancer Cell, Cords et al. employed multiplexed imaging mass cytometry to analyze cancer-associated fibroblast (CAF) heterogeneity in 1070 NSCLC patients. This work defined good and poor prognostic CAF phenotypes, the latter associated with metastasis and chemoresistance, as well as revealed that CAF spatial location correlates with immune cell infiltration and clinical outcome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kostas A Papavassiliou
- First University Department of Respiratory Medicine, 'Sotiria' Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens 11527, Greece
| | - Christos Adamopoulos
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens 11527, Greece; Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Athanasios G Papavassiliou
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens 11527, Greece.
| |
Collapse
|