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Chen Y, Liang Z, Lai M. Targeting the devil: Strategies against cancer-associated fibroblasts in colorectal cancer. Transl Res 2024; 270:81-93. [PMID: 38614213 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2024.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), as significant constituents of the tumor microenvironment (TME), play a pivotal role in the progression of cancers, including colorectal cancer (CRC). In this comprehensive review, we presented the origins and activation mechanisms of CAFs in CRC, elaborating on how CAFs drive tumor progression through their interactions with CRC cells, immune cells, vascular endothelial cells, and the extracellular matrix within the TME. We systematically outline the intricate web of interactions among CAFs, tumor cells, and other TME components, and based on this complex interplay, we summarize various therapeutic strategies designed to target CAFs in CRC. It is also essential to recognize that CAFs represent a highly heterogeneous group, encompassing various subtypes such as myofibroblastic CAF (myCAF), inflammatory CAF (iCAF), antigen-presenting CAF (apCAF), vessel-associated CAF (vCAF). Herein, we provide a summary of studies investigating the heterogeneity of CAFs in CRC and the characteristic expression patterns of each subtype. While the majority of CAFs contribute to the exacerbation of CRC malignancy, recent findings have revealed specific subtypes that exert inhibitory effects on CRC progression. Nevertheless, the comprehensive landscape of CAF heterogeneity still awaits exploration. We also highlight pivotal unanswered questions that need to be addressed before CAFs can be recognized as feasible targets for cancer treatment. In conclusion, the aim of our review is to elucidate the significance and challenges of advancing in-depth research on CAFs, while outlining the pathway to uncover the complex roles of CAFs in CRC and underscore their significant potential as therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuting Chen
- Department of Pathology, and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Research Unit of Intelligence Classification of Tumor Pathology and Precision Therapy of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU042), Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China; Department of Pathology, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Disease, Molecular Pathology Research Center, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China; Key Laboratory of Disease Proteomics of Zhejiang Province, Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310058, China
| | - Zhiyong Liang
- Department of Pathology, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Disease, Molecular Pathology Research Center, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Maode Lai
- Department of Pathology, and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Research Unit of Intelligence Classification of Tumor Pathology and Precision Therapy of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU042), Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China; Key Laboratory of Disease Proteomics of Zhejiang Province, Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310058, China.
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2
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Yu Y, Lyu C, Li X, Yang L, Wang J, Li H, Xin Z, Xu X, Ren C, Yang G. Remodeling of tumor microenvironment by extracellular matrix protein 1a differentially regulates ovarian cancer metastasis. Cancer Lett 2024; 596:217022. [PMID: 38849014 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.217022] [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: 01/08/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
We previously reported that extracellular matrix protein 1 isoform a (ECM1a) promotes epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) through autocrine signaling by binding to cell surface receptors αXβ2. However, the role of ECM1a as a secretory molecule in the tumor microenvironment is rarely reported. In this study, we constructed murine Ecm1-knockout mice and human ECM1a-knockin mice and further generated orthotopic or peritoneal xenograft tumor models to mimic the different metastatic stages of EOC. We show that ECM1a induces oncogenic metastasis of orthotopic xenograft tumors, but inhibits early-metastasis of peritoneal xenograft tumors. ECM1a remodels extracellular matrices (ECM) and promotes remote metastases by recruiting and transforming bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) into platelet-derived growth factor receptor beta (PDGFRβ+) cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and facilitating the secretion of angiopoietin-like protein 2 (ANGPTL2). Competing with ECM1a, ANGPTL2 also binds to integrin αX through the P1/P2 peptides, resulting in negative effects on BMSC differentiation. Collectively, this study reveals the dual functions of ECM1a in remodeling of TME during tumor progression, emphasizing the complexity of EOC phenotypic heterogeneity and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinjue Yu
- Central Laboratory, The Fifth People's Hospital of Shanghai, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200140, China; Department of Radiotherapy, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Cuiting Lyu
- Central Laboratory, The Fifth People's Hospital of Shanghai, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200140, China
| | - Xiaojing Li
- Department of Pathology, The Fifth People's Hospital of Shanghai, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200140, China
| | - Lina Yang
- Central Laboratory, The Fifth People's Hospital of Shanghai, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200140, China
| | - Jingshu Wang
- Central Laboratory, The Fifth People's Hospital of Shanghai, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200140, China
| | - Hui Li
- Central Laboratory, The Fifth People's Hospital of Shanghai, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200140, China
| | - Zhaochen Xin
- Central Laboratory, The Fifth People's Hospital of Shanghai, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200140, China
| | - Xinyi Xu
- Central Laboratory, The Fifth People's Hospital of Shanghai, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200140, China; Department of Pathology, The Fifth People's Hospital of Shanghai, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200140, China
| | - Chunxia Ren
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| | - Gong Yang
- Central Laboratory, The Fifth People's Hospital of Shanghai, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200140, China; Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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3
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Han X, Zhu Y, Ke J, Zhai Y, Huang M, Zhang X, He H, Zhang X, Zhao X, Guo K, Li X, Han Z, Zhang Y. Progression of m 6A in the tumor microenvironment: hypoxia, immune and metabolic reprogramming. Cell Death Discov 2024; 10:331. [PMID: 39033180 PMCID: PMC11271487 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-024-02092-2] [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: 12/24/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Recently, N6-methyladenosine (m6A) has aroused widespread discussion in the scientific community as a mode of RNA modification. m6A comprises writers, erasers, and readers, which regulates RNA production, nuclear export, and translation and is very important for human health. A large number of studies have found that the regulation of m6A is closely related to the occurrence and invasion of tumors, while the homeostasis and function of the tumor microenvironment (TME) determine the occurrence and development of tumors to some extent. TME is composed of a variety of immune cells (T cells, B cells, etc.) and nonimmune cells (tumor-associated mesenchymal stem cells (TA-MSCs), cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), etc.). Current studies suggest that m6A is involved in regulating the function of various cells in the TME, thereby affecting tumor progression. In this manuscript, we present the composition of m6A and TME, the relationship between m6A methylation and characteristic changes in TME, the role of m6A methylation in TME, and potential therapeutic strategies to provide new perspectives for better treatment of tumors in clinical work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Han
- First Clinical College of Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi, China
| | - Yu Zhu
- Linfen Central Hospital, Linfen, China
| | - Juan Ke
- Linfen Central Hospital, Linfen, China
| | | | - Min Huang
- Linfen Central Hospital, Linfen, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Linfen Central Hospital, Linfen, China
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Zhongyu Han
- School of Medicine and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
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4
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Zhu H, Jin RU. The role of the fibroblast in Barrett's esophagus and esophageal adenocarcinoma. Curr Opin Gastroenterol 2024; 40:319-327. [PMID: 38626060 PMCID: PMC11155289 DOI: 10.1097/mog.0000000000001032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/18/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Barrett's esophagus (BE) is the number one risk factor for developing esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC), a deadly cancer with limited treatment options that has been increasing in incidence in the US. In this report, we discuss current studies on the role of mesenchyme and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in BE and EAC, and we highlight translational prospects of targeting these cells. RECENT FINDINGS New insights through studies using single-cell RNA sequencing (sc-RNA seq) have revealed an important emerging role of the mesenchyme in developmental signaling and cancer initiation. BE and EAC share similar stromal gene expression, as functional classifications of nonepithelial cells in BE show a remarkable similarity to EAC CAFs. Several recent sc-RNA seq studies and novel organoid fibroblast co-culture systems have characterized the subgroups of fibroblasts in BE and EAC, and have shown that these cells can directly influence the epithelium to induce BE development and cancer progression. Targeting the CAFs in EAC with may be a promising novel therapeutic strategy. SUMMARY The fibroblasts in the surrounding mesenchyme may have a direct role in influencing altered epithelial plasticity during BE development and progression to EAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huili Zhu
- Section of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
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5
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Park A, Kim S, Yu J, Son D, Kim K, Koh E, Park K. Cadherin-6 is a novel mediator for the migration of mesenchymal stem cells to glioblastoma cells in response to stromal cell-derived factor-1. FEBS Open Bio 2024; 14:1192-1204. [PMID: 38719785 PMCID: PMC11216932 DOI: 10.1002/2211-5463.13815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma recruits various nontransformed cells from distant tissues. Although bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been observed migrating to glioblastoma, the underlying mechanism driving MSC migration toward glioblastoma remains unclear. Tumor vascularity is critical in the context of recurrent glioblastoma and is closely linked to the expression of stromal cell-derived factor-1 (SDF-1). We demonstrated that cadherin-6 mediated MSC migration both toward SDF-1 and toward glioblastoma cells. Cadherin-6 knockdown resulted in the downregulation of MSCs capacity to migrate in response to SDF-1. Furthermore, MSCs with cadherin-6 knockdown exhibited impaired migration in response to conditioned media derived from glioblastoma cell lines (U87 and U373) expressing SDF-1, thus simulating the glioblastoma microenvironment. Moreover, MSCs enhanced the vasculogenic capacity of U87 cells without increasing the proliferation, cancer stem cell characteristics, or migration of U87. These results suggest that the current strategy of utilizing MSCs as carriers for antiglioblastoma drugs requires careful examination. Furthermore, cadherin-6 may represent a novel potential target for controlling the recruitment of MSCs toward glioblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aran Park
- Graduate School of BiotechnologyKyung Hee UniversityYonginKorea
| | - Seung‐Eun Kim
- Department of Biomedical Science and Technology, Graduate SchoolKyung Hee UniversitySeoulKorea
| | - Jinyeong Yu
- Industry‐Academic Cooperation FoundationKyung Hee UniversitySeoulKorea
| | - Donghyun Son
- Department of Biomedical Science and Technology, Graduate SchoolKyung Hee UniversitySeoulKorea
| | - Kyung‐Sup Kim
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of MedicineYonsei UniversitySeoulKorea
| | - Eunjin Koh
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of MedicineYonsei UniversitySeoulKorea
| | - Ki‐Sook Park
- Department of Biomedical Science and Technology, Graduate SchoolKyung Hee UniversitySeoulKorea
- East‐West Medical Research InstituteKyung Hee UniversitySeoulKorea
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6
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Cui L, Liu T, Huang C, Yang F, Luo L, Sun L, Zhao Y, Wang D, Wang M, Ji Y, Zhu W. Gastric Cancer Mesenchymal Stem Cells Trigger Endothelial Cell Functional Changes to Promote Cancer Progression. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2024; 20:1285-1298. [PMID: 38598065 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-024-10720-8] [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] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Our previous studies have highlighted the pivotal role of gastric cancer mesenchymal stem cells (GCMSCs) in tumor initiation, progression, and metastasis. In parallel, it is well-documented that endothelial cells (ECs) undergo functional alterations in response to challenging tumor microenvironment. This study aims to elucidate whether functional changes in ECs might be induced by GCMSCs and thus influence cancer progression. Cell proliferation was assessed through CCK-8 and colony formation assays, while cell migration and invasion capabilities were evaluated by wound-healing and Transwell assays. Immunohistochemistry was employed to examine protein distribution and expression levels. Additionally, quantitative analysis of protein and mRNA expression was carried out through Western blotting and qRT-PCR respectively, with gene knockdown achieved using siRNA. Our findings revealed that GCMSCs effectively stimulate cell proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), both in vitro and in vivo. GCMSCs promote the migration and invasion of gastric cancer cells by inducing the expression of Slit2 in HUVECs. Notably, the inhibition of phosphorylated AKT partially mitigates the aforementioned effects. In conclusion, GCMSCs may exert regulatory control over Slit2 expression in ECs via the AKT signaling pathway, thereby inducing functional changes in ECs that promote tumor progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linjing Cui
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, 301 Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu Province, 212013, China
| | - Ting Liu
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, 301 Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu Province, 212013, China
| | - Chao Huang
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, 301 Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu Province, 212013, China
| | - Fumeng Yang
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, 301 Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu Province, 212013, China
| | - Liqi Luo
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, 301 Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu Province, 212013, China
| | - Li Sun
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Affiliated Kunshan Hospital of Jiangsu University, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yuanyuan Zhao
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, 301 Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu Province, 212013, China
| | - Deqiang Wang
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Mei Wang
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, 301 Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu Province, 212013, China
| | - Yong Ji
- Department of Surgery, Jingjiang People's Hospital, Jingjiang, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Wei Zhu
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, 301 Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu Province, 212013, China.
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7
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McAndrews KM, Mahadevan KK, Kalluri R. Mouse Models to Evaluate the Functional Role of the Tumor Microenvironment in Cancer Progression and Therapy Responses. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2024; 14:a041411. [PMID: 38191175 PMCID: PMC11216184 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a041411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a complex ecosystem of both cellular and noncellular components that functions to impact the evolution of cancer. Various aspects of the TME have been targeted for the control of cancer; however, TME composition is dynamic, with the overall abundance of immune cells, endothelial cells (ECs), fibroblasts, and extracellular matrix (ECM) as well as subsets of TME components changing at different stages of progression and in response to therapy. To effectively treat cancer, an understanding of the functional role of the TME is needed. Genetically engineered mouse models have enabled comprehensive insight into the complex interactions within the TME ecosystem that regulate disease progression. Here, we review recent advances in mouse models that have been employed to understand how the TME regulates cancer initiation, progression, metastasis, and response to therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen M McAndrews
- Department of Cancer Biology, Metastasis Research Center, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77054, USA
| | - Krishnan K Mahadevan
- Department of Cancer Biology, Metastasis Research Center, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77054, USA
| | - Raghu Kalluri
- Department of Cancer Biology, Metastasis Research Center, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77054, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, Texas 77251, USA
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
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8
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Gil-Chinchilla JI, Zapata AG, Moraleda JM, García-Bernal D. Bioengineered Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cells in Anti-Cancer Therapy: Current Trends and Future Prospects. Biomolecules 2024; 14:734. [PMID: 39062449 PMCID: PMC11275142 DOI: 10.3390/biom14070734] [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: 05/08/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) are one of the most widely used cell types in advanced therapies due to their therapeutic potential in the regulation of tissue repair and homeostasis, and immune modulation. However, their use in cancer therapy is controversial: they can inhibit cancer cell proliferation, but also potentially promote tumour growth by supporting angiogenesis, modulation of the immune milieu and increasing cancer stem cell invasiveness. This opposite behaviour highlights the need for careful and nuanced use of MSCs in cancer treatment. To optimize their anti-cancer effects, diverse strategies have bioengineered MSCs to enhance their tumour targeting and therapeutic properties or to deliver anti-cancer drugs. In this review, we highlight the advanced uses of MSCs in cancer therapy, particularly as carriers of targeted treatments due to their natural tumour-homing capabilities. We also discuss the potential of MSC-derived extracellular vesicles to improve the efficiency of drug or molecule delivery to cancer cells. Ongoing clinical trials are evaluating the therapeutic potential of these cells and setting the stage for future advances in MSC-based cancer treatment. It is critical to identify the broad and potent applications of bioengineered MSCs in solid tumour targeting and anti-cancer agent delivery to position them as effective therapeutics in the evolving field of cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesús I. Gil-Chinchilla
- Hematopoietic Transplant and Cellular Therapy Unit, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria (IMIB) Pascual Parrilla, Virgen de la Arrixaca University Hospital, University of Murcia, 30120 Murcia, Spain;
| | - Agustín G. Zapata
- Department of Cell Biology, Complutense University, 28040 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Jose M. Moraleda
- Hematopoietic Transplant and Cellular Therapy Unit, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria (IMIB) Pascual Parrilla, Virgen de la Arrixaca University Hospital, University of Murcia, 30120 Murcia, Spain;
- Department of Medicine, University of Murcia, 30120 Murcia, Spain
| | - David García-Bernal
- Hematopoietic Transplant and Cellular Therapy Unit, Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria (IMIB) Pascual Parrilla, Virgen de la Arrixaca University Hospital, University of Murcia, 30120 Murcia, Spain;
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Immunology, University of Murcia, 30120 Murcia, Spain
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9
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Rhodes JD, Goldenring JR, Lee SH. Regulation of metaplasia and dysplasia in the stomach by the stromal microenvironment. Exp Mol Med 2024; 56:1322-1330. [PMID: 38825636 PMCID: PMC11263556 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-024-01240-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: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 03/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Research on the microenvironment associated with gastric carcinogenesis has focused on cancers of the stomach and often underestimates premalignant stages such as metaplasia and dysplasia. Since epithelial interactions with T cells, macrophages, and type 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s) are indispensable for the formation of precancerous lesions in the stomach, understanding the cellular interactions that promote gastric precancer warrants further investigation. Although various types of immune cells have been shown to play important roles in gastric carcinogenesis, it remains unclear how stromal cells such as fibroblasts influence epithelial transformation in the stomach, especially during precancerous stages. Fibroblasts exist as distinct populations across tissues and perform different functions depending on the expression patterns of cell surface markers and secreted factors. In this review, we provide an overview of known microenvironmental components in the stroma with an emphasis on fibroblast subpopulations and their roles during carcinogenesis in tissues including breast, pancreas, and stomach. Additionally, we offer insights into potential targets of tumor-promoting fibroblasts and identify open areas of research related to fibroblast plasticity and the modulation of gastric carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jared D Rhodes
- Program in Cancer Biology, Nashville, TN, USA
- Epithelial Biology Center, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - James R Goldenring
- Program in Cancer Biology, Nashville, TN, USA.
- Epithelial Biology Center, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA.
- Section of Surgical Sciences, Nashville, TN, USA.
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Nashville, TN, USA.
- Nashville VA Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.
| | - Su-Hyung Lee
- Epithelial Biology Center, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA.
- Section of Surgical Sciences, Nashville, TN, USA.
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10
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Xu J, Zhang J, Chen W, Ni X. The tumor-associated fibrotic reactions in microenvironment aggravate glioma chemoresistance. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1388700. [PMID: 38863628 PMCID: PMC11165034 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1388700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Malignant gliomas are one of the most common and lethal brain tumors with poor prognosis. Most patients with glioblastoma (GBM) die within 2 years of diagnosis, even after receiving standard treatments including surgery combined with concomitant radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Temozolomide (TMZ) is the first-line chemotherapeutic agent for gliomas, but the frequent acquisition of chemoresistance generally leads to its treatment failure. Thus, it's urgent to investigate the strategies for overcoming glioma chemoresistance. Currently, many studies have elucidated that cancer chemoresistance is not only associated with the high expression of drug-resistance genes in glioma cells but also can be induced by the alterations of the tumor microenvironment (TME). Numerous studies have explored the use of antifibrosis drugs to sensitize chemotherapy in solid tumors, and surprisingly, these preclinical and clinical attempts have exhibited promising efficacy in treating certain types of cancer. However, it remains unclear how tumor-associated fibrotic alterations in the glioma microenvironment (GME) mediate chemoresistance. Furthermore, the possible mechanisms behind this phenomenon are yet to be determined. In this review, we have summarized the molecular mechanisms by which tumor-associated fibrotic reactions drive glioma transformation from a chemosensitive to a chemoresistant state. Additionally, we have outlined antitumor drugs with antifibrosis functions, suggesting that antifibrosis strategies may be effective in overcoming glioma chemoresistance through TME normalization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqi Xu
- The Second Clinical Medical School, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ji Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wubing Chen
- Department of Radiology, Wuxi Fifth People’s Hospital, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China
| | - Xiangrong Ni
- The Second Clinical Medical School, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Translational Medicine Research Center, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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11
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Ramos C, Gerakopoulos V, Oehler R. Metastasis-associated fibroblasts in peritoneal surface malignancies. Br J Cancer 2024:10.1038/s41416-024-02717-4. [PMID: 38783165 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-024-02717-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Over decades, peritoneal surface malignancies (PSMs) have been associated with limited treatment options and poor prognosis. However, advancements in perioperative systemic chemotherapy, cytoreductive surgery (CRS), and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) have significantly improved clinical outcomes. PSMs predominantly result from the spread of intra-abdominal neoplasia, which then form secondary peritoneal metastases. Colorectal, ovarian, and gastric cancers are the most common contributors. Despite diverse primary origins, the uniqueness of the peritoneum microenvironment shapes the common features of PSMs. Peritoneal metastization involves complex interactions between tumour cells and the peritoneal microenvironment. Fibroblasts play a crucial role, contributing to tumour development, progression, and therapy resistance. Peritoneal metastasis-associated fibroblasts (MAFs) in PSMs exhibit high heterogeneity. Single-cell RNA sequencing technology has revealed that immune-regulatory cancer-associated fibroblasts (iCAFs) seem to be the most prevalent subtype in PSMs. In addition, other major subtypes as myofibroblastic CAFs (myCAFs) and matrix CAFs (mCAFs) were frequently observed across PSMs studies. Peritoneal MAFs are suggested to originate from mesothelial cells, submesothelial fibroblasts, pericytes, endothelial cells, and omental-resident cells. This plasticity and heterogeneity of CAFs contribute to the complex microenvironment in PSMs, impacting treatment responses. Understanding these interactions is crucial for developing targeted and local therapies to improve PSMs patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristiano Ramos
- Department of General Surgery, Division of Visceral Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Vasileios Gerakopoulos
- Department of General Surgery, Division of Visceral Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Rudolf Oehler
- Department of General Surgery, Division of Visceral Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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12
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Gao X, Ren H, Zhang Z, Cao S, Zhang B, Sun Q, Melino G, Huang H. Human lung cancer-derived mesenchymal stem cells promote tumor growth and immunosuppression. Biol Direct 2024; 19:39. [PMID: 38755705 PMCID: PMC11097554 DOI: 10.1186/s13062-024-00479-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: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The presence of mesenchymal stem cells has been confirmed in some solid tumors where they serve as important components of the tumor microenvironment; however, their role in cancer has not been fully elucidated. The aim of this study was to investigate the functions of mesenchymal stem cells isolated from tumor tissues of patients with non-small cell lung cancer. RESULTS Human lung cancer-derived mesenchymal stem cells displayed the typical morphology and immunophenotype of mesenchymal stem cells; they were nontumorigenic and capable of undergoing multipotent differentiation. These isolated cells remarkably enhanced tumor growth when incorporated into systems alongside tumor cells in vivo. Importantly, in the presence of mesenchymal stem cells, the ability of peripheral blood mononuclear cell-derived natural killer and activated T cells to mediate tumor cell destruction was significantly compromised. CONCLUSION Collectively, these data support the notion that human lung cancer-derived mesenchymal stem cells protect tumor cells from immune-mediated destruction by inhibiting the antitumor activities of natural killer and T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Gao
- Department of Oncology, Beijing Shijitan Hospital of Capital Medical University, 10 Tieyi Road, Beijing, 100038, China
| | - He Ren
- Department of Oncology, Beijing Shijitan Hospital of Capital Medical University, 10 Tieyi Road, Beijing, 100038, China
| | - Zhengrong Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Beijing Shijitan Hospital of Capital Medical University, 10 Tieyi Road, Beijing, 100038, China
- Department of Experimental Medicine, TOR, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Shuai Cao
- Department of Orthopedics, Civil Aviation General Hospital, No.1 Gaojing Street, Chaoyang District, Beijing, 100123, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Beijing Shijitan Hospital of Capital Medical University, 10 Tieyi Road, Beijing, 100038, China
- Laboratory of Cell Engineering, Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, China
| | - Qiang Sun
- Laboratory of Cell Engineering, Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, China
| | - Gerry Melino
- Department of Experimental Medicine, TOR, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
- DZNE German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Bonn, Germany
| | - Hongyan Huang
- Department of Oncology, Beijing Shijitan Hospital of Capital Medical University, 10 Tieyi Road, Beijing, 100038, China.
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13
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Kou Z, Liu C, Zhang W, Sun C, Liu L, Zhang Q. Heterogeneity of primary and metastatic CAFs: From differential treatment outcomes to treatment opportunities (Review). Int J Oncol 2024; 64:54. [PMID: 38577950 PMCID: PMC11015919 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2024.5642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Compared with primary tumor sites, metastatic sites appear more resistant to treatments and respond differently to the treatment regimen. It may be due to the heterogeneity in the microenvironment between metastatic sites and primary tumors. Cancer‑associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are widely present in the tumor stroma as key components of the tumor microenvironment. Primary tumor CAFs (pCAFs) and metastatic CAFs (mCAFs) are heterogeneous in terms of source, activation mode, markers and functional phenotypes. They can shape the tumor microenvironment according to organ, showing heterogeneity between primary tumors and metastases, which may affect the sensitivity of these sites to treatment. It was hypothesized that understanding the heterogeneity between pCAFs and mCAFs can provide a glimpse into the difference in treatment outcomes, providing new ideas for improving the rate of metastasis control in various cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zixing Kou
- College of First Clinical Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250355, P.R. China
| | - Cun Liu
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang, Shandong 261053, P.R. China
| | - Wenfeng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa Island 999078, Macau SAR, P.R. China
| | - Changgang Sun
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang, Shandong 261053, P.R. China
- Department of Oncology, Weifang Traditional Chinese Hospital, Weifang, Shandong 621000, P.R. China
| | - Lijuan Liu
- Department of Oncology, Weifang Traditional Chinese Hospital, Weifang, Shandong 621000, P.R. China
| | - Qiming Zhang
- College of First Clinical Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250355, P.R. China
- Department of Experimental Research Center, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100007, P.R. China
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14
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Li X, Tang Z, Li Z, Li Z, Zhao P, Song Y, Yang K, Xia Z, Wang Y, Guo D. Somatic mutations that affect early genetic progression and immune microenvironment in gastric carcinoma. Pathol Res Pract 2024; 257:155310. [PMID: 38663178 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2024.155310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
Gastric carcinoma (GC) is a high heterogeneity and malignant tumor with a poor prognosis. The current implementation of immunotherapy in GC is limited due to the insufficient exploration of immune-related mutations and speculated early mutation events. Therefore, we performed whole-exome sequencing on 40 patients with GC to explore their genetic characteristics, shedding light on the order of genetic events, somatic mutations impacting the immune microenvironment, and potential biomarkers for immunotherapy. Regarding genetic events, TP53 disruptions were identified as frequent and early events in GC progression, often occurring alongside other gene mutations. The mutations occurring in GANS, SMAD4, and POLE were early independent events. Patients harboring CSMD3, FAT4, FLG, KMT2C, LRP1B, MUC5B, MUC16, PLEC, RNF43, SYNE1, TP53, TTN, XIRP2, and ZFHX4 mutations tended to have decreased B cells, T cells, macrophage, neutrophil, and dendritic cells infiltration, except for the ARID1A gene mutations. We also found patients with microsatellite instability-high tumors had higher homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) scores. HRD showed a positive correlation with tumor mutational burden, which might serve as indirect evidence supporting the potential of HRD as a biomarker for GC. These findings highlighted GC's high heterogeneity and complexity and provided valuable insights into the somatic mutations that affect early genetic progression and immune microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxiao Li
- Center for GI Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, 16 Jiangsu Road, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Zirui Tang
- School of Software Engineering, Northeastern University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110169, China; Shenzhen Byoryn Technology Co. Ltd, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhaopeng Li
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, China
| | - Zhao Li
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, China
| | - Ping Zhao
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, China
| | - Yi Song
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, China
| | - Kexin Yang
- Department of Cardiology, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China
| | - Zihan Xia
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China
| | - Yinan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518036, China.
| | - Dong Guo
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, China.
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15
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Buruiană A, Gheban BA, Gheban-Roșca IA, Georgiu C, Crișan D, Crișan M. The Tumor Stroma of Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Complex Environment That Fuels Cancer Progression. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1727. [PMID: 38730679 PMCID: PMC11083853 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16091727] [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: 04/08/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME), a complex assembly of cellular and extracellular matrix (ECM) components, plays a crucial role in driving tumor progression, shaping treatment responses, and influencing metastasis. This narrative review focuses on the cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) tumor stroma, highlighting its key constituents and their dynamic contributions. We examine how significant changes within the cSCC ECM-specifically, alterations in fibronectin, hyaluronic acid, laminins, proteoglycans, and collagens-promote cancer progression, metastasis, and drug resistance. The cellular composition of the cSCC TME is also explored, detailing the intricate interplay of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), endothelial cells, pericytes, adipocytes, and various immune cell populations. These diverse players modulate tumor development, angiogenesis, and immune responses. Finally, we emphasize the TME's potential as a therapeutic target. Emerging strategies discussed in this review include harnessing the immune system (adoptive cell transfer, checkpoint blockade), hindering tumor angiogenesis, disrupting CAF activity, and manipulating ECM components. These approaches underscore the vital role that deciphering TME interactions plays in advancing cSCC therapy. Further research illuminating these complex relationships will uncover new avenues for developing more effective treatments for cSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Buruiană
- Department of Pathology, Iuliu Haţieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (A.B.); (C.G.); (D.C.)
| | - Bogdan-Alexandru Gheban
- Department of Histology, Iuliu Haţieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
- Emergency Clinical County Hospital, 400347 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Ioana-Andreea Gheban-Roșca
- Department of Medical Informatics and Biostatistics, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400129 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Carmen Georgiu
- Department of Pathology, Iuliu Haţieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (A.B.); (C.G.); (D.C.)
| | - Doința Crișan
- Department of Pathology, Iuliu Haţieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (A.B.); (C.G.); (D.C.)
| | - Maria Crișan
- Department of Histology, Iuliu Haţieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
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16
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Zhang Q, Lou Y, Fang H, Sun S, Jin R, Ji Y, Chen Z. Cancer‑associated fibroblasts under therapy‑induced senescence in the tumor microenvironment (Review). Exp Ther Med 2024; 27:150. [PMID: 38476922 PMCID: PMC10928991 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2024.12438] [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: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Current cancer treatments target tumor cells; however, the tumor microenvironment (TME) induces therapeutic resistance, tumor development and metastasis, thus rendering these treatments ineffective. Research on the TME has therefore concentrated on nonmalignant cells. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are a major TME component, which contribute to cancer progression due to their diverse origins, phenotypes and functions, including cancer cell invasion and migration, extracellular matrix remodeling, tumor metabolism modulation and therapeutic resistance. Standard cancer treatment typically exacerbates the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) of senescent cancer cells and nonmalignant cells that actively leak proinflammatory signals in the TME. Therapy-induced senescence may impair cancer cell activity and compromise treatment responsiveness. CAFs and SASP are well-studied in the formation and progression of cancer. The present review discusses the current data on CAF senescence caused by anticancer treatment and assesses how senescence-like CAFs affect tumor formation. The development of senolytic medication for aging stromal cells is also highlighted. Combining cancer therapies with senolytics may boost therapeutic effects and provide novel possibilities for research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuhua Zhang
- Department of Oncology, First Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310053, P.R. China
| | - Yijie Lou
- Department of Oncology, First Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310053, P.R. China
| | - Hao Fang
- Department of Oncology, First Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310053, P.R. China
| | - Shaopeng Sun
- Department of Oncology, First Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310053, P.R. China
| | - Rijuan Jin
- Department of Oncology, First Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310053, P.R. China
| | - Yunxi Ji
- Department of General Practice, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine), Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310003, P.R. China
| | - Zhe Chen
- Key Laboratory of Digestive Pathophysiology of Zhejiang Province, Institute of Cancer Research, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine), Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310003, P.R. China
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17
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Huang H, Lu W, Zhang X, Pan J, Cao F, Wen L. Fibroblast subtypes in pancreatic cancer and pancreatitis: from mechanisms to therapeutic strategies. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2024; 47:383-396. [PMID: 37721678 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-023-00874-x] [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] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Excessive fibrosis is a predominant feature of pancreatic stroma and plays a crucial role in the development and progression of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and chronic pancreatitis (CP). Emerging evidence showed diversity and heterogeneity of fibroblasts play crucial and somewhat contradictory roles, the interactions between fibroblasts and pancreatic cells or infiltrating immune cells are of great importance during PDAC and CP progression, with some promising therapeutic strategies being tested. Therefore, in this review, we describe the classification of fibroblasts and their functions in PDAC and pancreatitis, the mechanisms by which fibroblasts mediate the development and progression of PDAC and CP through direct or indirect interaction between fibroblast and pancreatic parenchymal cells, or by remodeling the pancreatic immune microenvironment mediates the development and progression of PDAC and CP. Finally, we summarized the current therapeutic strategies and agents that directly target subtypes of fibroblasts or interfere with their essential functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huizhen Huang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Diseases, Shanghai General Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wanyi Lu
- Center for Biomarker Discovery and Validation, National Infrastructures for Translational Medicine (PUMCH), Institute of Clinical Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- State Key Laboratory of Complex, Severe, and Rare Diseases, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xiuli Zhang
- Center for Biomarker Discovery and Validation, National Infrastructures for Translational Medicine (PUMCH), Institute of Clinical Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- State Key Laboratory of Complex, Severe, and Rare Diseases, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jiachun Pan
- Center for Biomarker Discovery and Validation, National Infrastructures for Translational Medicine (PUMCH), Institute of Clinical Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- State Key Laboratory of Complex, Severe, and Rare Diseases, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Feng Cao
- Department of General Surgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
| | - Li Wen
- Center for Biomarker Discovery and Validation, National Infrastructures for Translational Medicine (PUMCH), Institute of Clinical Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Complex, Severe, and Rare Diseases, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
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18
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Ozmen E, Demir TD, Ozcan G. Cancer-associated fibroblasts: protagonists of the tumor microenvironment in gastric cancer. Front Mol Biosci 2024; 11:1340124. [PMID: 38562556 PMCID: PMC10982390 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2024.1340124] [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: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Enhanced knowledge of the interaction of cancer cells with their environment elucidated the critical role of tumor microenvironment in tumor progression and chemoresistance. Cancer-associated fibroblasts act as the protagonists of the tumor microenvironment, fostering the metastasis, stemness, and chemoresistance of cancer cells and attenuating the anti-cancer immune responses. Gastric cancer is one of the most aggressive cancers in the clinic, refractory to anti-cancer therapies. Growing evidence indicates that cancer-associated fibroblasts are the most prominent risk factors for a poor tumor immune microenvironment and dismal prognosis in gastric cancer. Therefore, targeting cancer-associated fibroblasts may be central to surpassing resistance to conventional chemotherapeutics, molecular-targeted agents, and immunotherapies, improving survival in gastric cancer. However, the heterogeneity in cancer-associated fibroblasts may complicate the development of cancer-associated fibroblast targeting approaches. Although single-cell sequencing studies started dissecting the heterogeneity of cancer-associated fibroblasts, the research community should still answer these questions: "What makes a cancer-associated fibroblast protumorigenic?"; "How do the intracellular signaling and the secretome of different cancer-associated fibroblast subpopulations differ from each other?"; and "Which cancer-associated fibroblast subtypes predominate specific cancer types?". Unveiling these questions can pave the way for discovering efficient cancer-associated fibroblast targeting strategies. Here, we review current knowledge and perspectives on these questions, focusing on how CAFs induce aggressiveness and therapy resistance in gastric cancer. We also review potential therapeutic approaches to prevent the development and activation of cancer-associated fibroblasts via inhibition of CAF inducers and CAF markers in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ece Ozmen
- Koç University Graduate School of Health Sciences, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Tevriz Dilan Demir
- Koç University Research Center for Translational Medicine (KUTTAM), Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Gulnihal Ozcan
- Koç University Research Center for Translational Medicine (KUTTAM), Istanbul, Türkiye
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, Koç University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Türkiye
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19
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Lootens T, Roman BI, Stevens CV, De Wever O, Raedt R. Glioblastoma-Associated Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cells and Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts: Partners in Crime? Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2285. [PMID: 38396962 PMCID: PMC10889514 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25042285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Tumor-associated mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (TA-MSCs) have been recognized as attractive therapeutic targets in several cancer types, due to their ability to enhance tumor growth and angiogenesis and their contribution to an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). In glioblastoma (GB), mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) seem to be recruited to the tumor site, where they differentiate into glioblastoma-associated mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (GA-MSCs) under the influence of tumor cells and the TME. GA-MSCs are reported to exert important protumoral functions, such as promoting tumor growth and invasion, increasing angiogenesis, stimulating glioblastoma stem cell (GSC) proliferation and stemness, mediating resistance to therapy and contributing to an immunosuppressive TME. Moreover, they could act as precursor cells for cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), which have recently been identified in GB. In this review, we provide an overview of the different functions exerted by GA-MSCs and CAFs and the current knowledge on the relationship between these cell types. Increasing our understanding of the interactions and signaling pathways in relevant models might contribute to future regimens targeting GA-MSCs and GB-associated CAFs to inhibit tumor growth and render the TME less immunosuppressive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thibault Lootens
- 4Brain, Department of Head and Skin, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium;
- Laboratory of Experimental Cancer Research, Department of Human Structure and Repair, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium;
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), 9000 Ghent, Belgium; (B.I.R.); (C.V.S.)
| | - Bart I. Roman
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), 9000 Ghent, Belgium; (B.I.R.); (C.V.S.)
- SynBioC, Department of Green Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Christian V. Stevens
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), 9000 Ghent, Belgium; (B.I.R.); (C.V.S.)
- SynBioC, Department of Green Chemistry and Technology, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Olivier De Wever
- Laboratory of Experimental Cancer Research, Department of Human Structure and Repair, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium;
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), 9000 Ghent, Belgium; (B.I.R.); (C.V.S.)
| | - Robrecht Raedt
- 4Brain, Department of Head and Skin, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium;
- Cancer Research Institute Ghent (CRIG), 9000 Ghent, Belgium; (B.I.R.); (C.V.S.)
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20
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Contreras-Panta EW, Choi E, Goldenring JR. The Fibroblast Landscape in Stomach Carcinogenesis. Cell Mol Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024; 17:671-678. [PMID: 38342299 PMCID: PMC10957461 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmgh.2024.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/13/2024]
Abstract
Numerous recent studies using single cell RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptomics have shown the vast cell heterogeneity, including epithelial, immune, and stromal cells, present in the normal human stomach and at different stages of gastric carcinogenesis. Fibroblasts within the metaplastic and dysplastic mucosal stroma represent key contributors to the carcinogenic microenvironment in the stomach. The heterogeneity of fibroblast populations is present in the normal stomach, but plasticity within these populations underlies their alterations in association with both metaplasia and dysplasia. In this review, we summarize and discuss efforts over the past several years to study the fibroblast components in human stomach from normal to metaplasia, dysplasia, and cancer. In the stomach, myofibroblast populations increase during late phase carcinogenesis and are a source of matrix proteins. PDGFRA-expressing telocyte-like cells are present in normal stomach and expand during metaplasia and dysplasia in close proximity with epithelial lineages, likely providing support for both normal and metaplastic progenitor niches. The alterations in fibroblast transcriptional signatures across the stomach carcinogenesis process indicate that fibroblast populations are likely as plastic as epithelial populations during the evolution of carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ela W Contreras-Panta
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee; Section of Surgical Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee; Epithelial Biology Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Eunyoung Choi
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee; Section of Surgical Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee; Epithelial Biology Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - James R Goldenring
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee; Section of Surgical Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee; Epithelial Biology Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee; Nashville VA Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee.
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21
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Mei S, Alchahin AM, Tsea I, Kfoury Y, Hirz T, Jeffries NE, Zhao T, Xu Y, Zhang H, Sarkar H, Wu S, Subtelny AO, Johnsen JI, Zhang Y, Salari K, Wu CL, Randolph MA, Scadden DT, Dahl DM, Shin J, Kharchenko PV, Saylor PJ, Sykes DB, Baryawno N. Single-cell analysis of immune and stroma cell remodeling in clear cell renal cell carcinoma primary tumors and bone metastatic lesions. Genome Med 2024; 16:1. [PMID: 38281962 PMCID: PMC10823713 DOI: 10.1186/s13073-023-01272-6] [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: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite therapeutic advances, once a cancer has metastasized to the bone, it represents a highly morbid and lethal disease. One third of patients with advanced clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) present with bone metastasis at the time of diagnosis. However, the bone metastatic niche in humans, including the immune and stromal microenvironments, has not been well-defined, hindering progress towards identification of therapeutic targets. METHODS We collected fresh patient samples and performed single-cell transcriptomic profiling of solid metastatic tissue (Bone Met), liquid bone marrow at the vertebral level of spinal cord compression (Involved), and liquid bone marrow from a different vertebral body distant from the tumor site but within the surgical field (Distal), as well as bone marrow from patients undergoing hip replacement surgery (Benign). In addition, we incorporated single-cell data from primary ccRCC tumors (ccRCC Primary) for comparative analysis. RESULTS The bone marrow of metastatic patients is immune-suppressive, featuring increased, exhausted CD8 + cytotoxic T cells, T regulatory cells, and tumor-associated macrophages (TAM) with distinct transcriptional states in metastatic lesions. Bone marrow stroma from tumor samples demonstrated a tumor-associated mesenchymal stromal cell population (TA-MSC) that appears to be supportive of epithelial-to mesenchymal transition (EMT), bone remodeling, and a cancer-associated fibroblast (CAFs) phenotype. This stromal subset is associated with poor progression-free and overall survival and also markedly upregulates bone remodeling through the dysregulation of RANK/RANKL/OPG signaling activity in bone cells, ultimately leading to bone resorption. CONCLUSIONS These results provide a comprehensive analysis of the bone marrow niche in the setting of human metastatic cancer and highlight potential therapeutic targets for both cell populations and communication channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shenglin Mei
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, 02114, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
| | - Adele M Alchahin
- Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, 17176, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ioanna Tsea
- Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, 17176, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Youmna Kfoury
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
- Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
| | - Taghreed Hirz
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
- Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
| | - Nathan Elias Jeffries
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
- Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
| | - Ting Zhao
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
- Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
| | - Yanxin Xu
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
- Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
| | - Hanyu Zhang
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
- Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
| | - Hirak Sarkar
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Shulin Wu
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Alexander O Subtelny
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - John Inge Johnsen
- Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, 17176, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Yida Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Keyan Salari
- Department of Urology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Chin-Lee Wu
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Mark A Randolph
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - David T Scadden
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
- Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
| | - Douglas M Dahl
- Department of Urology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - John Shin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
| | - Peter V Kharchenko
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
- Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA.
- Present: Altos Labs, San Diego, CA, 92121, USA.
| | - Philip J Saylor
- Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02114, USA.
| | - David B Sykes
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, 02114, USA.
- Harvard Stem Cell Institute, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA.
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA.
| | - Ninib Baryawno
- Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, 17176, Stockholm, Sweden.
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22
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Park A, Choi S, Do J, Kim Y, Kim KS, Koh E, Park KS. ZO-1 regulates the migration of mesenchymal stem cells in cooperation with α-catenin in response to breast tumor cells. Cell Death Discov 2024; 10:19. [PMID: 38212369 PMCID: PMC10784548 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-023-01793-4] [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: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells are recruited from the bone marrow into breast tumors, contributing to the creation of a tumor microenvironment that fosters tropism for breast tumors. However, the intrinsic mechanisms underlying the recruitment of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) into the breast tumor microenvironment are still under investigation. Our discoveries identified zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) as a specific intrinsic molecule that plays a vital role in mediating the collective migration of MSCs towards breast tumor cells and transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β), which is a crucial factor secreted by breast tumor cells. Upon migration in response to MDA-MB-231 cells and TGF-β, MSCs showed increased formation of adherens junction-like structures (AJs) expressing N-cadherin and α-catenin at their cell-cell contacts. ZO-1 was found to be recruited into the AJs at the cell-cell contacts between MSCs. Additionally, ZO-1 collaborated with α-catenin to regulate AJ formation, dependently on the SH3 and GUK domains of the ZO-1 protein. ZO-1 knockdown led to the impaired migration of MSCs in response to the stimuli and subsequent downregulation of AJs formation at the cell-cell contacts during MSCs migration. Overall, our study highlights the novel role of ZO-1 in guiding MSC migration towards breast tumor cells, suggesting its potential as a new strategy for controlling and re-engineering the breast tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aran Park
- Graduate School of Biotechnology, Kyung Hee University, Yongin, 17104, Korea
| | - Sanghyuk Choi
- Graduate School of Biotechnology, Kyung Hee University, Yongin, 17104, Korea
| | - Jungbeom Do
- Department of Biomedical Science and Technology, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 02447, Korea
| | - Youngjae Kim
- Department of Biomedical Science and Technology, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 02447, Korea
| | - Kyung-Sup Kim
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Genetic Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Korea
| | - Eunjin Koh
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Genetic Science, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03722, Korea
| | - Ki-Sook Park
- Department of Biomedical Science and Technology, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 02447, Korea.
- East-West Medical Research Institute, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, 02447, Korea.
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23
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Sari D, Gozuacik D, Akkoc Y. Role of autophagy in cancer-associated fibroblast activation, signaling and metabolic reprograming. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 11:1274682. [PMID: 38234683 PMCID: PMC10791779 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1274682] [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: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Tumors not only consist of cancerous cells, but they also harbor several normal-like cell types and non-cellular components. cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are one of these cellular components that are found predominantly in the tumor stroma. Autophagy is an intracellular degradation and quality control mechanism, and recent studies provided evidence that autophagy played a critical role in CAF formation, metabolic reprograming and tumor-stroma crosstalk. Therefore, shedding light on the autophagy and its role in CAF biology might help us better understand the roles of CAFs and the TME in cancer progression and may facilitate the exploitation of more efficient cancer diagnosis and treatment. Here, we provide an overview about the involvement of autophagy in CAF-related pathways, including transdifferentiation and activation of CAFs, and further discuss the implications of targeting tumor stroma as a treatment option.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dyana Sari
- Koç University Research Center for Translational Medicine (KUTTAM), Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Devrim Gozuacik
- Koç University Research Center for Translational Medicine (KUTTAM), Istanbul, Türkiye
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Medicine, Koç University, Istanbul, Türkiye
- Department of Biotechnology, SUNUM Nanotechnology Research and Application Center, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Yunus Akkoc
- Koç University Research Center for Translational Medicine (KUTTAM), Istanbul, Türkiye
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24
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Borzone FR, Giorello MB, Sanmartin MC, Yannarelli G, Martinez LM, Chasseing NA. Mesenchymal stem cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts as a therapeutic strategy for breast cancer. Br J Pharmacol 2024; 181:238-256. [PMID: 35485850 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer and the leading cause of death among women. Recent evidence suggests that mesenchymal stromal/stem cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) have an essential role in cancer progression, invasion and therapy resistance. Therefore, they are considered as highly promising future therapeutic targets against breast cancer. The intrinsic tumour tropism and immunomodulatory capacities of mesenchymal stromal/stem cells are of special relevance for developing mesenchymal stromal/stem cells-based anti-tumour therapies that suppress primary tumour growth and metastasis. In addition, the utilization of therapies that target the stromal components of the tumour microenvironment in combination with standard drugs is an innovative tool that could improve patients' response to therapies and their survival. In this review, we discuss the currently available information regarding the possible use of mesenchymal stromal/stem cells-derived anti-tumour therapies, as well as the utilization of therapies that target CAFs in breast cancer microenvironment. Finally, these data can serve as a guide map for future research in this field, ultimately aiding the effective transition of these results into the clinic. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed issue on Cancer Microenvironment and Pharmacological Interventions. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v181.2/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Raúl Borzone
- Laboratorio de Inmunohematología, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME) - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Belén Giorello
- Laboratorio de Inmunohematología, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME) - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Cecilia Sanmartin
- Laboratorio de Inmunohematología, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME) - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Laboratorio de Regulación Génica y Células Madre, Instituto de Medicina Traslacional, Trasplante y Bioingeniería (IMeTTyB), Universidad Favaloro-CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Gustavo Yannarelli
- Laboratorio de Regulación Génica y Células Madre, Instituto de Medicina Traslacional, Trasplante y Bioingeniería (IMeTTyB), Universidad Favaloro-CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Leandro Marcelo Martinez
- Hematology and Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA
| | - Norma Alejandra Chasseing
- Laboratorio de Inmunohematología, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME) - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
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25
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Ajmeera D, Ajumeera R. Drug repurposing: A novel strategy to target cancer stem cells and therapeutic resistance. Genes Dis 2024; 11:148-175. [PMID: 37588226 PMCID: PMC10425757 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2022.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy is an effortless and frequently used approach in cancer therapy. However, in most cases, it can only prolong life expectancy and does not guarantee a complete cure. Furthermore, chemotherapy is associated with severe adverse effects, one of the major complications of effective cancer therapy. In addition, newly published research outputs show that cancer stem cells are involved in cancer disease progression, drug resistance, metastasis, and recurrence and that they are functional in the trans-differentiation capacity of cancer stem cells to cancer cells in response to treatments. Novel strategies are therefore required for better management of cancer therapy. The prime approach would be to synthesize and develop novel drugs that need extensive resources, time, and endurance to be brought into therapeutic use. The subsequent approach would be to screen the anti-cancer activity of available non-cancerous drugs. This concept of repurposing non-cancer drugs as an alternative to current cancer therapy has become popular in recent years because using existing anticancer drugs has several adverse effects. Micronutrients have also been investigated for cancer therapy due to their significant anti-cancer effects with negligible or no side effects and availability in food sources. In this paper, we discuss an ideal hypothesis for screening available non-cancerous drugs with anticancer activity, with a focus on cancer stem cells and their clinical application for cancer treatment. Further, drug repurposing and the combination of micronutrients that can target both cancers and cancer stem cells may result in a better therapeutic approach leading to maximum tumor growth control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Divya Ajmeera
- Cell Biology Department, ICMR-National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), Hyderabad, Telangana 500007, India
| | - Rajanna Ajumeera
- Cell Biology Department, ICMR-National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), Hyderabad, Telangana 500007, India
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26
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Batra H, Ding Q, Pandurengan R, Ibarguen H, Rabassedas NB, Sahin A, Wistuba I, Parra ER, Raso MG. Exploration of cancer associated fibroblasts phenotypes in the tumor microenvironment of classical and pleomorphic Invasive Lobular Carcinoma. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1281650. [PMID: 38192631 PMCID: PMC10772146 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1281650] [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: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
As the second most common subtype of breast carcinoma, Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC) microenvironment features have not been thoroughly explored. ILC has different histological subtypes and elucidating differences in their microenvironments could lead to a comprehensive development of cancer therapies. We designed a custom-made cancer associated fibroblast (CAFs) panel and used multiplex immunofluorescence to identify the differences in tumor microenvironment between Classic ILC and Pleomorphic ILC. Materials and methods Multiplex immunofluorescence were performed on formalin fixed paraffin embedded tissues using Opal-7 color kit. The antibodies used for phenotyping CAFs were Pan CK (AE1/AE3), CD45, A-SMA, FAP, S100, Thy-1 with optimized dilutions. The images were acquired and analyzed using Vectra 3.0 imaging system and InForm software respectively. Results We studied 19 different CAFs colocalized phenotypes in the tumor, stroma and overall tissue compartments between classic and pleomorphic ILC. Total A-SMA+, A-SMA+FAP+S100+ and A-SMA+S100+ CAFs demonstrated higher densities in classic ILC cases while FAP+S100+ and S-100+ CAFs were increased in the pleomorphic subtype samples. Conclusion Our study explores multiple CAFs phenotypes between classical and pleomorphic ILC. We showed that CAFs subset differ between Classic ILC and Pleomorphic ILC. A-SMA CAFs are more prevalent in the TME of classic ILCs whereas Pleomorphic ILCs are dominated by CAFs without A-SMA expression. This also iterates the importance of exploring this particular type of breast carcinoma in more detail, paving the way for meaningful translational research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harsh Batra
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Qingqing Ding
- Department of Pathology, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Renganayaki Pandurengan
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Heladio Ibarguen
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Neus Bota Rabassedas
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Aysegul Sahin
- Department of Pathology, the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Ignacio Wistuba
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Edwin Roger Parra
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Maria Gabriela Raso
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
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27
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Liu Z, Zhang Y, Wu C. Single-cell sequencing in pancreatic cancer research: A deeper understanding of heterogeneity and therapy. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 168:115664. [PMID: 37837881 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer, including pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas (PDACs), is a malignant tumor with characteristics of tumor-stroma interactions. Patients often have a poor prognosis and a poor long-term survival rate. In recent years, rapidly-developing single-cell sequencing techniques have been used to analyze cell populations at a single-cell resolution, so that it is now possible to have a more in-depth and clearer understanding of the genetic composition of pancreatic cancer. In this review, we provide an overview of the current single-cell sequencing techniques and their applications in the exploration of intratumoral heterogeneity, the tumor microenvironment, therapy resistance, and novel treatments. Our hope is to provide new insight into the potential of precision therapy, which will perhaps one day lead to significant advances in PDAC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuomiao Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yalin Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Chunli Wu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
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28
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Yang S, Zou R, Dai Y, Hu Y, Li F, Hu H. Tumor immune microenvironment and the current immunotherapy of cholangiocarcinoma (Review). Int J Oncol 2023; 63:137. [PMID: 37888583 PMCID: PMC10631767 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2023.5585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a highly heterogeneous malignancy originating from the epithelial system of the bile ducts, and its incidence in recent years is steadily increasing. The immune microenvironment of CCA is characterized by diversity and complexity, with a substantial presence of cancer‑associated fibroblasts and immune cell infiltration, which plays a key role in regulating the distinctive biological behavior of cholangiocarcinoma, including tumor growth, angiogenesis, lymphangiogenesis, invasion and metastasis. Despite the notable success of immunotherapy in the treatment of solid tumors in recent years, patients with CCA have responded poorly to immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy. The interaction of tumor cells with cellular components of the immune microenvironment can regulate the activity and function of immune cells and form an immunosuppressive microenvironment, which may cause ineffective immunotherapy. Therefore, the components of the tumor immune microenvironment appear to be novel targets for immune therapies. Combination therapy focusing on immune checkpoint inhibitors is a promising and valuable first‑line or translational treatment approach for intractable biliary tract malignancies. The present review discusses the compositional characteristics and regulatory factors of the CCA immune microenvironment and the possible immune escape mechanisms. In addition, a summary of the advances in immunotherapy for CCA is also provided. It is hoped that the present review may function as a valuable reference for the development of novel immunotherapeutic strategies for CCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siqi Yang
- Division of Biliary Tract Surgery, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China
| | - Ruiqi Zou
- Division of Biliary Tract Surgery, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China
| | - Yushi Dai
- Division of Biliary Tract Surgery, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China
| | - Yafei Hu
- Division of Biliary Tract Surgery, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China
| | - Fuyu Li
- Division of Biliary Tract Surgery, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China
| | - Haijie Hu
- Division of Biliary Tract Surgery, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, P.R. China
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29
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Park H, Li B, Liu Y, Nelson MS, Wilson HM, Sifakis E, Eliceiri KW. Collagen fiber centerline tracking in fibrotic tissue via deep neural networks with variational autoencoder-based synthetic training data generation. Med Image Anal 2023; 90:102961. [PMID: 37802011 PMCID: PMC10591913 DOI: 10.1016/j.media.2023.102961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023]
Abstract
The role of fibrillar collagen in the tissue microenvironment is critical in disease contexts ranging from cancers to chronic inflammations, as evidenced by many studies. Quantifying fibrillar collagen organization has become a powerful approach for characterizing the topology of collagen fibers and studying the role of collagen fibers in disease progression. We present a deep learning-based pipeline to quantify collagen fibers' topological properties in microscopy-based collagen images from pathological tissue samples. Our method leverages deep neural networks to extract collagen fiber centerlines and deep generative models to create synthetic training data, addressing the current shortage of large-scale annotations. As a part of this effort, we have created and annotated a collagen fiber centerline dataset, with the hope of facilitating further research in this field. Quantitative measurements such as fiber orientation, alignment, density, and length can be derived based on the centerline extraction results. Our pipeline comprises three stages. Initially, a variational autoencoder is trained to generate synthetic centerlines possessing controllable topological properties. Subsequently, a conditional generative adversarial network synthesizes realistic collagen fiber images from the synthetic centerlines, yielding a synthetic training set of image-centerline pairs. Finally, we train a collagen fiber centerline extraction network using both the original and synthetic data. Evaluation using collagen fiber images from pancreas, liver, and breast cancer samples collected via second-harmonic generation microscopy demonstrates our pipeline's superiority over several popular fiber centerline extraction tools. Incorporating synthetic data into training further enhances the network's generalizability. Our code is available at https://github.com/uw-loci/collagen-fiber-metrics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyojoon Park
- Department of Computer Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA; Laboratory for Optical and Computational Instrumentation, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA; Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, WI 53706, USA.
| | - Bin Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA; Laboratory for Optical and Computational Instrumentation, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA; Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, WI 53706, USA.
| | - Yuming Liu
- Laboratory for Optical and Computational Instrumentation, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA.
| | - Michael S Nelson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA; Laboratory for Optical and Computational Instrumentation, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA.
| | - Helen M Wilson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA; Laboratory for Optical and Computational Instrumentation, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA.
| | - Eftychios Sifakis
- Department of Computer Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA.
| | - Kevin W Eliceiri
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA; Laboratory for Optical and Computational Instrumentation, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA; Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, WI 53706, USA.
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30
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Didamoony MA, Soubh AA, Atwa AM, Ahmed LA. Innovative preconditioning strategies for improving the therapeutic efficacy of extracellular vesicles derived from mesenchymal stem cells in gastrointestinal diseases. Inflammopharmacology 2023; 31:2973-2993. [PMID: 37874430 PMCID: PMC10692273 DOI: 10.1007/s10787-023-01350-6] [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: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
Gastrointestinal (GI) diseases have become a global health issue and an economic burden due to their wide distribution, late prognosis, and the inefficacy of recent available medications. Therefore, it is crucial to search for new strategies for their management. In the recent decades, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) therapy has attracted attention as a viable option for treating a myriad of GI disorders such as hepatic fibrosis (HF), ulcerative colitis (UC), acute liver injury (ALI), and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) due to their regenerative and paracrine properties. Importantly, recent studies have shown that MSC-derived extracellular vesicles (MSC-EVs) are responsible for most of the therapeutic effects of MSCs. In addition, EVs have revealed several benefits over their parent MSCs, such as being less immunogenic, having a lower risk of tumour formation, being able to cross biological barriers, and being easier to store. MSC-EVs exhibited regenerative, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and anti-fibrotic effects in different experimental models of GI diseases. However, a key issue with their clinical application is the maintenance of their stability and efficacy following in vivo transplantation. Preconditioning of MSC-EVs or their parent cells is one of the novel methods used to improve their effectiveness and stability. Herein, we discuss the application of MSC-EVs in several GI disorders taking into account their mechanism of action. We also summarise the challenges and restrictions that need to be overcome to promote their clinical application in the treatment of various GI diseases as well as the recent developments to improve their effectiveness. A representation of the innovative preconditioning techniques that have been suggested for improving the therapeutic efficacy of MSC-EVs in GI diseases. The pathological conditions in various GI disorders (ALI, UC, HF and NAFLD) create a harsh environment for EVs and their parents, increasing the risk of apoptosis and senescence of MSCs and thereby diminishing MSC-EVs yield and restricting their large-scale applications. Preconditioning with pharmacological agents or biological mediators can improve the therapeutic efficacy of MSC-EVs through their adaption to the lethal environment to which they are subjected. This can result in establishment of a more conducive environment and activation of numerous vital trajectories that act to improve the immunomodulatory, reparative and regenerative activities of the derived EVs, as a part of MSCs paracrine system. ALI, acute liver injury; GI diseases, gastrointestinal diseases; HF, hepatic fibrosis; HSP, heat shock protein; miRNA, microRNA; mRNA, messenger RNA; MSC-EVs, mesenchymal stem cell-derived extracellular vesicles; NAFLD, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease; UC, ulcerative colitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manar A Didamoony
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Egyptian Russian University, Cairo, 11829, Egypt.
| | - Ayman A Soubh
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Ahram Canadian University, 4th Industrial Zone, Banks Complex, 6th of October City, Giza, 12451, Egypt
| | - Ahmed M Atwa
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Egyptian Russian University, Cairo, 11829, Egypt
| | - Lamiaa A Ahmed
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Cairo University, Cairo, 11562, Egypt.
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31
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Krzysiek-Maczka G, Brzozowski T, Ptak-Belowska A. Helicobacter pylori-activated fibroblasts as a silent partner in gastric cancer development. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2023; 42:1219-1256. [PMID: 37460910 PMCID: PMC10713772 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-023-10122-1] [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: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
The discovery of Helicobacter pylori (Hp) infection of gastric mucosa leading to active chronic gastritis, gastroduodenal ulcers, and MALT lymphoma laid the groundwork for understanding of the general relationship between chronic infection, inflammation, and cancer. Nevertheless, this sequence of events is still far from full understanding with new players and mediators being constantly identified. Originally, the Hp virulence factors affecting mainly gastric epithelium were proposed to contribute considerably to gastric inflammation, ulceration, and cancer. Furthermore, it has been shown that Hp possesses the ability to penetrate the mucus layer and directly interact with stroma components including fibroblasts and myofibroblasts. These cells, which are the source of biophysical and biochemical signals providing the proper balance between cell proliferation and differentiation within gastric epithelial stem cell compartment, when exposed to Hp, can convert into cancer-associated fibroblast (CAF) phenotype. The crosstalk between fibroblasts and myofibroblasts with gastric epithelial cells including stem/progenitor cell niche involves several pathways mediated by non-coding RNAs, Wnt, BMP, TGF-β, and Notch signaling ligands. The current review concentrates on the consequences of Hp-induced increase in gastric fibroblast and myofibroblast number, and their activation towards CAFs with the emphasis to the altered communication between mesenchymal and epithelial cell compartment, which may lead to inflammation, epithelial stem cell overproliferation, disturbed differentiation, and gradual gastric cancer development. Thus, Hp-activated fibroblasts may constitute the target for anti-cancer treatment and, importantly, for the pharmacotherapies diminishing their activation particularly at the early stages of Hp infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gracjana Krzysiek-Maczka
- Department of Physiology, the Faculty of Medicine, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 16 Grzegorzecka Street, 31-531, Kraków, Poland.
| | - Tomasz Brzozowski
- Department of Physiology, the Faculty of Medicine, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 16 Grzegorzecka Street, 31-531, Kraków, Poland.
| | - Agata Ptak-Belowska
- Department of Physiology, the Faculty of Medicine, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 16 Grzegorzecka Street, 31-531, Kraków, Poland
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32
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Maji S, Pradhan AK, Kumar A, Bhoopathi P, Mannangatti P, Guo C, Windle JJ, Subler MA, Wang XY, Semmes OJ, Nyalwidhe JO, Mukhopadhyay N, Paul AK, Hatfield B, Levit MM, Madan E, Sarkar D, Emdad L, Cohen DJ, Gogna R, Cavenee WK, Das SK, Fisher PB. MDA-9/Syntenin in the tumor and microenvironment defines prostate cancer bone metastasis. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2307094120. [PMID: 37922327 PMCID: PMC10636346 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2307094120] [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: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Bone metastasis is a frequent and incurable consequence of advanced prostate cancer (PC). An interplay between disseminated tumor cells and heterogeneous bone resident cells in the metastatic niche initiates this process. Melanoma differentiation associated gene-9 (mda-9/Syntenin/syndecan binding protein) is a prometastatic gene expressed in multiple organs, including bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (BM-MSCs), under both physiological and pathological conditions. We demonstrate that PDGF-AA secreted by tumor cells induces CXCL5 expression in BM-MSCs by suppressing MDA-9-dependent YAP/MST signaling. CXCL5-derived tumor cell proliferation and immune suppression are consequences of the MDA-9/CXCL5 signaling axis, promoting PC disease progression. mda-9 knockout tumor cells express less PDGF-AA and do not develop bone metastases. Our data document a previously undefined role of MDA-9/Syntenin in the tumor and microenvironment in regulating PC bone metastasis. This study provides a framework for translational strategies to ameliorate health complications and morbidity associated with advanced PC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Santanu Maji
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA23298
| | - Anjan K. Pradhan
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA23298
- VCU Institute of Molecular Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA23298
| | - Amit Kumar
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA23298
| | - Praveen Bhoopathi
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA23298
- VCU Institute of Molecular Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA23298
| | - Padmanabhan Mannangatti
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA23298
- VCU Institute of Molecular Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA23298
| | - Chunqing Guo
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA23298
- VCU Institute of Molecular Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA23298
- VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA23298
| | - Jolene J. Windle
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA23298
- VCU Institute of Molecular Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA23298
- VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA23298
| | - Mark A. Subler
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA23298
- VCU Institute of Molecular Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA23298
| | - Xiang-Yang Wang
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA23298
- VCU Institute of Molecular Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA23298
- VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA23298
| | - Oliver J. Semmes
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Cell Biology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA23507
| | - Julius O. Nyalwidhe
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Cell Biology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA23507
| | - Nitai Mukhopadhyay
- VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA23298
- Department of Biostatistics, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA23238
| | - Asit Kr. Paul
- VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA23298
- Department of Internal Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA23238
| | - Bryce Hatfield
- Department of Pathology, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA23238
| | - Michael M. Levit
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA23238
| | - Esha Madan
- VCU Institute of Molecular Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA23298
- VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA23298
- Department of Surgery, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA23238
| | - Devanand Sarkar
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA23298
- VCU Institute of Molecular Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA23298
- VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA23298
| | - Luni Emdad
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA23298
- VCU Institute of Molecular Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA23298
- VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA23298
| | - David J. Cohen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA23238
| | - Rajan Gogna
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA23298
- VCU Institute of Molecular Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA23298
- VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA23298
| | - Webster K. Cavenee
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA92093
| | - Swadesh K. Das
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA23298
- VCU Institute of Molecular Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA23298
- VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA23298
| | - Paul B. Fisher
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA23298
- VCU Institute of Molecular Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA23298
- VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA23298
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Hazrati A, Malekpour K, Mirsanei Z, Khosrojerdi A, Rahmani-Kukia N, Heidari N, Abbasi A, Soudi S. Cancer-associated mesenchymal stem/stromal cells: role in progression and potential targets for therapeutic approaches. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1280601. [PMID: 38022534 PMCID: PMC10655012 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1280601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Malignancies contain a relatively small number of Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs), constituting a crucial tumor microenvironment (TME) component. These cells comprise approximately 0.01-5% of the total TME cell population. MSC differentiation potential and their interaction with the tumor environment enable these cells to affect tumor cells' growth, immune evasion, metastasis, drug resistance, and angiogenesis. This type of MSC, known as cancer-associated mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (CA-MSCs (interacts with tumor/non-tumor cells in the TME and affects their function by producing cytokines, chemokines, and various growth factors to facilitate tumor cell migration, survival, proliferation, and tumor progression. Considering that the effect of different cells on each other in the TME is a multi-faceted relationship, it is essential to discover the role of these relationships for targeting in tumor therapy. Due to the immunomodulatory role and the tissue repair characteristic of MSCs, these cells can help tumor growth from different aspects. CA-MSCs indirectly suppress antitumor immune response through several mechanisms, including decreasing dendritic cells (DCs) antigen presentation potential, disrupting natural killer (NK) cell differentiation, inducing immunoinhibitory subsets like tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) and Treg cells, and immune checkpoint expression to reduce effector T cell antitumor responses. Therefore, if these cells can be targeted for treatment so that their population decreases, we can hope for the treatment and improvement of the tumor conditions. Also, various studies show that CA-MSCs in the TME can affect other vital aspects of a tumor, including cell proliferation, drug resistance, angiogenesis, and tumor cell invasion and metastasis. In this review article, we will discuss in detail some of the mechanisms by which CA-MSCs suppress the innate and adaptive immune systems and other mechanisms related to tumor progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Hazrati
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kosar Malekpour
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Mirsanei
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Arezou Khosrojerdi
- Infectious Diseases Research Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Nasim Rahmani-Kukia
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Neda Heidari
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ardeshir Abbasi
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sara Soudi
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
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34
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Borrello MT, Mann D. Chronic liver diseases: From development to novel pharmacological therapies: IUPHAR Review 37. Br J Pharmacol 2023; 180:2880-2897. [PMID: 35393658 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15853] [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: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic liver diseases comprise a broad spectrum of burdensome diseases that still lack effective pharmacological therapies. Our research group focuses on fibrosis, which is a major precursor of liver cirrhosis. Fibrosis consists in a progressive disturbance of liver sinusoidal architecture characterised by connective tissue deposition as a reparative response to tissue injury. Multifactorial events and several types of cells participate in fibrosis initiation and progression, and the process still needs to be completely understood. The development of experimental models of liver fibrosis alongside the identification of critical factors progressing fibrosis to cirrhosis will facilitate the development of more effective therapeutic approaches for such condition. This review provides an overlook of the main process leading to hepatic fibrosis and therapeutic approaches that have emerged from a deep knowledge of the molecular regulation of fibrogenesis in the liver. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed issue on Translational Advances in Fibrosis as a Therapeutic Target. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v180.22/issuetoc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Teresa Borrello
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Derek Mann
- Newcastle Fibrosis Research Group, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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35
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Jeong S, Afroz S, Kang D, Noh J, Suh J, Kim JH, You HJ, Kang HG, Kim YJ, Kim JH. Sarcoma Immunotherapy: Confronting Present Hurdles and Unveiling Upcoming Opportunities. Mol Cells 2023; 46:579-588. [PMID: 37853684 PMCID: PMC10590708 DOI: 10.14348/molcells.2023.0079] [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: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Sarcomas are rare and heterogeneous mesenchymal neoplasms originating from the bone or soft tissues, which pose significant treatment challenges. The current standard treatment for sarcomas consists of surgical resection, often combined with chemo- and radiotherapy; however, local recurrence and metastasis remain significant concerns. Although immunotherapy has demonstrated promise in improving long-term survival rates for certain cancers, sarcomas are generally considered to be relatively less immunogenic than other tumors, presenting substantial challenges for effective immunotherapy. In this review, we examine the possible opportunities for sarcoma immunotherapy, noting cancer testis antigens expressed in sarcomas. We then cover the current status of immunotherapies in sarcomas, including progress in cancer vaccines, immune checkpoint inhibitors, and adoptive cellular therapy and their potential in combating these tumors. Furthermore, we discuss the limitations of immunotherapies in sarcomas, including a low tumor mutation burden and immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, and explore potential strategies to tackle the immunosuppressive barriers in therapeutic interventions, shedding light on the development of effective and personalized treatments for sarcomas. Overall, this review provides a comprehensive overview of the current status and potential of immunotherapies in sarcoma treatment, highlighting the challenges and opportunities for developing effective therapies to improve the outcomes of patients with these rare malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sehan Jeong
- Center for RNA Research, Institute for Basic Science, Seoul 08826, Korea
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Sharmin Afroz
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Ewha Womans University College of Medicine, Seoul 07985, Korea
| | - Donghyun Kang
- Center for RNA Research, Institute for Basic Science, Seoul 08826, Korea
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Jeonghwan Noh
- Center for RNA Research, Institute for Basic Science, Seoul 08826, Korea
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Jooyeon Suh
- Center for RNA Research, Institute for Basic Science, Seoul 08826, Korea
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - June Hyuk Kim
- Orthopaedic Oncology Clinic, Center for Rare Cancer, Research Institute and Hospital, Graduate School of Cancer Science and Policy, National Cancer Center, Goyang 10408, Korea
| | - Hye Jin You
- Cancer Microenvironment Branch, Division of Cancer Biology, Research Institute, National Cancer Center, Goyang 10408, Korea
| | - Hyun Guy Kang
- Orthopaedic Oncology Clinic, Center for Rare Cancer, Research Institute and Hospital, Graduate School of Cancer Science and Policy, National Cancer Center, Goyang 10408, Korea
| | - Yi-Jun Kim
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Ewha Womans University College of Medicine, Seoul 07985, Korea
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Ewha Womans University College of Medicine, Seoul 07985, Korea
| | - Jin-Hong Kim
- Center for RNA Research, Institute for Basic Science, Seoul 08826, Korea
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
- Bio-MAX Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
- Institute of Green-Bio Science and Technology, Seoul National University, Pyeongchang 25354, Korea
- Interdisciplinary Program in Bioinformatics, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
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36
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Wang Y, Lou R, Zhang Z, Xiao C, Yu S, Wei S, Liu Y, Fu W, Li B, Chen YG. Stromal BMP signaling regulates mucin production in the large intestine via interleukin-1/17. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadi1827. [PMID: 37889976 PMCID: PMC10610902 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adi1827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Bone morphogenic protein (BMP) signaling is critical for intestinal development, homeostasis, and function performance. Although the function of BMP signaling in the intestinal epithelium is well appreciated, the direct effect of BMP on intestinal stromal cells is poorly understood. Here, we show that disruption of BMP signaling by genetic ablation of Alk3 or Smad4 expands the stromal cell pool, the mucosa tumefaction, and colonic polyposis in the large intestine. Interleukin (IL) secretion by stromal cells is notably increased, including IL-1, IL-11, and IL-17. Specifically, IL-1 and IL-17a hyperactivate the mucin production by goblet cells through nuclear factor κB signaling, and abnormal mucin accumulation results in the morphological changes, epithelial barrier destruction, and polyposis development. Together, our results provide an insight into the role of BMP signaling in intestinal stromal cells to regulate epithelium function. This study further highlights the role of mucin-producing goblet cells in intestinal homeostasis and colitis development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yalong Wang
- The State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
- Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510530, China
- Guangzhou National Laboratory, Guangzhou 510005, China
| | - Ruoyu Lou
- The State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Zhe Zhang
- Guangzhou National Laboratory, Guangzhou 510005, China
- School of Life Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming 650500, China
| | - Chuyu Xiao
- The State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Shicheng Yu
- Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510530, China
- Guangzhou National Laboratory, Guangzhou 510005, China
| | - Siting Wei
- The State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Yuan Liu
- The State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Wei Fu
- Department of General Surgery, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Baojie Li
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Ye-Guang Chen
- The State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
- Guangzhou National Laboratory, Guangzhou 510005, China
- School of Basic Medicine, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, China
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37
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Afkhami H, Mahmoudvand G, Fakouri A, Shadab A, Mahjoor M, Komeili Movahhed T. New insights in application of mesenchymal stem cells therapy in tumor microenvironment: pros and cons. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1255697. [PMID: 37849741 PMCID: PMC10577325 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1255697] [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: 07/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Multipotent mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are widely accepted as a useful tool for cell-based therapy of various diseases including malignancies. The therapeutic effects of MSCs are mainly attributed to their immunomodulatory and immunosuppressive properties. Despite the promising outcomes of MSCs in cancer therapy, a growing body of evidence implies that MSCs also show tumorigenic properties in the tumor microenvironment (TME), which might lead to tumor induction and progression. Owing to the broad-spectrum applications of MSCs, this challenge needs to be tackled so that they can be safely utilized in clinical practice. Herein, we review the diverse activities of MSCs in TME and highlight the potential methods to convert their protumorigenic characteristics into onco-suppressive effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamed Afkhami
- Nervous System Stem Cells Research Center, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahed University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Golnaz Mahmoudvand
- Student Research Committee, USERN Office, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Arshia Fakouri
- Student Research Committee, USERN Office, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Alireza Shadab
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
- Iran University of Medical Sciences, Deputy of Health, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohamad Mahjoor
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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38
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Siani A, Infante-Teixeira L, d'Arcy R, Roberts IV, El Mohtadi F, Donno R, Tirelli N. Polysulfide nanoparticles inhibit fibroblast-to-myofibroblast transition via extracellular ROS scavenging and have potential anti-fibrotic properties. BIOMATERIALS ADVANCES 2023; 153:213537. [PMID: 37406516 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2023.213537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
This paper is about the effects of reactive oxygen species (ROS) - and of their nanoparticle-mediated extracellular removal - in the TGF-β1-induced differentiation of fibroblasts (human dermal fibroblasts - HDFa) to more contractile myofibroblasts, and in the maintenance of this phenotype. Here, poly(propylene sulfide) (PPS) nanoparticles have been employed on 2D and 3D in vitro models, showing extremely low toxicity and undergoing negligible internalization, thereby ensuring an extracellular-only action. Firstly, PPS nanoparticles abrogated ROS-mediated downstream molecular events such as glutathione oxidation, NF-κB activation, and heme oxidase-1 (HMOX) overexpression. Secondly, PPS nanoparticles were also capable to inhibit, prevent and reverse the TGF-β1-induced upregulation of key biomechanical elements, such as ED-a fibronectin (EF-A FN) and alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), respectively markers of protomyofibroblastic and of myofibroblastic differentiation. We also confirmed that ROS alone are ineffective promoters of the myofibroblastic transition, although their presence contributes to its stabilization. Finally, the particles also countered TGF-β1-induced matrix- and tissue-level phenomena, e.g., the upregulation of collagen type 1, the development of aberrant collagen type 1/3 ratios and the contracture of HDFa 3D-seeded fibrin constructs. In short, experimental data at molecular, cellular and tissue levels show a significant potential in the use of PPS nanoparticles as anti-fibrotic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Siani
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Stopford Building, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | - Lorena Infante-Teixeira
- Laboratory of Polymers and Biomaterials, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego 30, 16163 Genova, Italy
| | - Richard d'Arcy
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Stopford Building, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK; Laboratory of Polymers and Biomaterials, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego 30, 16163 Genova, Italy.
| | - Iwan V Roberts
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Stopford Building, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | - Farah El Mohtadi
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Stopford Building, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | - Roberto Donno
- Laboratory of Polymers and Biomaterials, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego 30, 16163 Genova, Italy
| | - Nicola Tirelli
- Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Stopford Building, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK; Laboratory of Polymers and Biomaterials, Fondazione Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego 30, 16163 Genova, Italy.
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39
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Brügger MD, Basler K. The diverse nature of intestinal fibroblasts in development, homeostasis, and disease. Trends Cell Biol 2023; 33:834-849. [PMID: 37080817 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcb.2023.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
Only in recent years have we begun to appreciate the involvement of fibroblasts in intestinal development, tissue homeostasis, and disease. These insights followed the advent of single-cell transcriptomics that allowed researchers to explore the heterogeneity of intestinal fibroblasts in unprecedented detail. Since researchers often defined cell types and their associated function based on the biological process they studied, there are a plethora of partially overlapping markers for different intestinal fibroblast populations. This ambiguity complicates putting different research findings into context. Here, we provide a census on the function and identity of intestinal fibroblasts in mouse and human. We propose a simplified framework consisting of three colonic and four small intestinal fibroblast populations to aid navigating the diversity of intestinal fibroblasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael David Brügger
- Department of Molecular Life Sciences, University of Zürich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057 Zürich, Switzerland.
| | - Konrad Basler
- Department of Molecular Life Sciences, University of Zürich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057 Zürich, Switzerland.
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40
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Liu Z, Hou P, Fang J, Zhu J, Zha J, Liu R, Ding Y, Zuo M, Li P, Cao L, Feng C, Melino G, Shao C, Shi Y. Mesenchymal stromal cells confer breast cancer doxorubicin resistance by producing hyaluronan. Oncogene 2023; 42:3221-3235. [PMID: 37704784 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-023-02837-w] [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: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
Chemotherapy resistance represents a major cause of therapeutic failure and mortality in cancer patients. Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs), an integral component of tumor microenvironment, are known to promote drug resistance. However, the detailed mechanisms remain to be elucidated. Here, we found that MSCs confer breast cancer resistance to doxorubicin by diminishing its intratumoral accumulation. Hyaluronan (HA), a major extracellular matrix (ECM) product of MSCs, was found to mediate the chemoresistant effect. The chemoresistant effect of MSCs was abrogated when hyaluronic acid synthase 2 (HAS2) was depleted or inhibited. Exogenous HA also protected tumor grafts from doxorubicin. Molecular dynamics simulation analysis indicates that HA can bind with doxorubicin, mainly via hydrophobic and hydrogen bonds, and thus reduce its entry into breast cancer cells. This mechanism is distinct from the reported chemoresistant effect of HA via its receptor on cell surface. High HA serum levels were also found to be positively associated with chemoresistance in breast cancer patients. Our findings indicate that the HA-doxorubicin binding dynamics can confer cancer cells chemoresistance. Reducing HA may enhance chemotherapy efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhanhong Liu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Institutes for Translational Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Biochemical Sciences, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Pengbo Hou
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Institutes for Translational Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Biochemical Sciences, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Jiankai Fang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Institutes for Translational Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jingyu Zhu
- School of Life Sciences and Health Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China
| | - Juanmin Zha
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Rui Liu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Institutes for Translational Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Biochemical Sciences, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Yayun Ding
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Institutes for Translational Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Muqiu Zuo
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Institutes for Translational Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Peishan Li
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Institutes for Translational Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lijuan Cao
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Institutes for Translational Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chao Feng
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Institutes for Translational Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Gerry Melino
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Biochemical Sciences, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Changshun Shao
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Institutes for Translational Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Yufang Shi
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Institutes for Translational Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China.
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41
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Gao Q, Zhan Y, Sun L, Zhu W. Cancer Stem Cells and the Tumor Microenvironment in Tumor Drug Resistance. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2023; 19:2141-2154. [PMID: 37477773 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-023-10593-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
Although there has been some progress in the efficacy of anti-cancer drugs, drug resistance remains challenging. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are self-renewing and differentiate into cancer tissues with tumor heterogeneity. CSCs are associated with the progression of breast, colon, and lung cancers. Hence, recent studies have focused on the role of CSCs in resistance to anti-cancer drugs. Increasing evidence suggests that CSCs interact with components of the tumor microenvironment (TME), such as vascular and immune cells, as well as various cytokines, and are regulated by multiple signaling pathways, thereby promoting drug resistance in various cancers. Therefore, it is important to clarify the mechanisms underlying the crosstalk between CSCs and the TME for the development of targeted anti-cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuzhi Gao
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, 301 Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, 212013, China
| | - Yixiang Zhan
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Li Sun
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Affiliated Kunshan Hospital of Jiangsu University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215300, China
| | - Wei Zhu
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, 301 Xuefu Road, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, 212013, China.
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Lei Y, He J, Tang Y. Long non-coding RNA and the tumor microenvironment: Prospects for clinical applications in breast cancer. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2023; 190:104102. [PMID: 37597792 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2023.104102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2022] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer has surpassed lung cancer as the number one cancer worldwide, and invasion and metastasis are still the main causes of death in breast cancer patients. The tumor microenvironment (TME) is an important site for the growth of tumor cells nourished by vascular networks, and various components of the TME interact strongly with cancer cells and are one of the important mechanisms of tumor progression and metastasis. In recent years, many studies have reported that long non-coding RNAs (LncRNAs) are involved in the formation of TME and influence the process of tumorigenesis and metastasis. This paper reviews the basic characteristics and functional roles of LncRNA in breast cancer TME and introduces the various mechanisms of LncRNA in breast cancer microenvironment that induce breast cancer development and metastasis in three directions: immune cells, non-immune cells, and extracellular matrix in TME, providing potential biomarkers or therapeutic targets for clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxi Lei
- School of Public Health, Southwest Medical University, 1 Xianglin Road, Luzhou 646000, Sichuan, China.
| | - Junfang He
- School of Public Health, Southwest Medical University, 1 Xianglin Road, Luzhou 646000, Sichuan, China.
| | - Yan Tang
- School of Public Health, Southwest Medical University, 1 Xianglin Road, Luzhou 646000, Sichuan, China.
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Saha A, Kolonin MG, DiGiovanni J. Obesity and prostate cancer - microenvironmental roles of adipose tissue. Nat Rev Urol 2023; 20:579-596. [PMID: 37198266 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-023-00764-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Obesity is known to have important roles in driving prostate cancer aggressiveness and increased mortality. Multiple mechanisms have been postulated for these clinical observations, including effects of diet and lifestyle, systemic changes in energy balance and hormonal regulation and activation of signalling by growth factors and cytokines and other components of the immune system. Over the past decade, research on obesity has shifted towards investigating the role of peri-prostatic white adipose tissue as an important source of locally produced factors that stimulate prostate cancer progression. Cells that comprise white adipose tissue, the adipocytes and their progenitor adipose stromal cells (ASCs), which proliferate to accommodate white adipose tissue expansion in obesity, have been identified as important drivers of obesity-associated cancer progression. Accumulating evidence suggests that adipocytes are a source of lipids that are used by adjacent prostate cancer cells. However, results of preclinical studies indicate that ASCs promote tumour growth by remodelling extracellular matrix and supporting neovascularization, contributing to the recruitment of immunosuppressive cells, and inducing epithelial-mesenchymal transition through paracrine signalling. Because epithelial-mesenchymal transition is associated with cancer chemotherapy resistance and metastasis, ASCs are considered to be potential targets of therapies that could be developed to suppress cancer aggressiveness in patients with obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Achinto Saha
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology and Dell Paediatric Research Institute, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
- Center for Molecular Carcinogenesis and Toxicology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
- Livestrong Cancer Institutes, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Mikhail G Kolonin
- The Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine for the Prevention of Disease, The University of Texas Health Sciences Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA.
| | - John DiGiovanni
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology and Dell Paediatric Research Institute, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA.
- Center for Molecular Carcinogenesis and Toxicology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA.
- Livestrong Cancer Institutes, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA.
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44
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Xu Y, Li W, Lin S, Liu B, Wu P, Li L. Fibroblast diversity and plasticity in the tumor microenvironment: roles in immunity and relevant therapies. Cell Commun Signal 2023; 21:234. [PMID: 37723510 PMCID: PMC10506315 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01204-2] [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: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), enriched in the tumor stroma, have received increasing attention because of their multifaceted effects on tumorigenesis, development, metastasis, and treatment resistance in malignancies. CAFs contributed to suppressive microenvironment via different mechanisms, while CAFs also exerted some antitumor effects. Therefore, CAFs have been considered promising therapeutic targets for their remarkable roles in malignant tumors. However, patients with malignancies failed to benefit from current CAFs-targeted drugs in many clinical trials, which suggests that further in-depth investigation into CAFs is necessary. Here, we summarize and outline the heterogeneity and plasticity of CAFs mainly by exploring their origin and activation, highlighting the regulation of CAFs in the tumor microenvironment during tumor evolution, as well as the critical roles performed by CAFs in tumor immunity. In addition, we summarize the current immunotherapies targeting CAFs, and conclude with a brief overview of some prospects for the future of CAFs research in the end. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yashi Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Wei Li
- Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Shitong Lin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Binghan Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Peng Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
- Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
| | - Li Li
- Cancer Biology Research Center (Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education), Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
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45
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Su JX, Li SJ, Zhou XF, Zhang ZJ, Yan Y, Liu SL, Qi Q. Chemotherapy-induced metastasis: molecular mechanisms and clinical therapies. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2023; 44:1725-1736. [PMID: 37169853 PMCID: PMC10462662 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-023-01093-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy, the most widely accepted treatment for malignant tumors, is dependent on cell death induced by various drugs including antimetabolites, alkylating agents, mitotic spindle inhibitors, antitumor antibiotics, and hormonal anticancer drugs. In addition to causing side effects due to non-selective cytotoxicity, chemotherapeutic drugs can initiate and promote metastasis, which greatly reduces their clinical efficacy. The knowledge of how they induce metastasis is essential for developing strategies that improve the outcomes of chemotherapy. Herein, we summarize the recent findings on chemotherapy-induced metastasis and discuss the underlying mechanisms including tumor-initiating cell expansion, the epithelial-mesenchymal transition, extracellular vesicle involvement, and tumor microenvironment alterations. In addition, the use of combination treatments to overcome chemotherapy-induced metastasis is also elaborated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Xuan Su
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules and Druggability Assessment; MOE Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Biology; Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Si-Jia Li
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules and Druggability Assessment; MOE Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Biology; Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Xiao-Feng Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules and Druggability Assessment; MOE Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Biology; Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Zhi-Jing Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules and Druggability Assessment; MOE Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Biology; Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Yu Yan
- Functional Experimental Teaching Center, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China.
| | - Song-Lin Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China.
| | - Qi Qi
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Molecules and Druggability Assessment; MOE Key Laboratory of Tumor Molecular Biology; Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China.
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46
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Huang L, Xie Q, Deng J, Wei WF. The role of cancer-associated fibroblasts in bladder cancer progression. Heliyon 2023; 9:e19802. [PMID: 37809511 PMCID: PMC10559166 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e19802] [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: 01/14/2023] [Revised: 08/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are key stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME) that critically contribute to cancer initiation and progression. In bladder cancer (BCa), there is emerging evidence that BCa CAFs are actively involved in cancer cell proliferation, invasion, metastasis, and chemotherapy resistance. This review outlines the present knowledge of BCa CAFs, with a particular emphasis on their origin and function in BCa progression, and provides further insights into their clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Long Huang
- Department of Urology, Zhuhai People's Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Qun Xie
- Department of Urology, Zhuhai People's Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Jian Deng
- Department of Urology, Zhuhai People's Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Wen-Fei Wei
- Department of Gynecology, Zhuhai People's Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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Slama Y, Ah-Pine F, Khettab M, Arcambal A, Begue M, Dutheil F, Gasque P. The Dual Role of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Cancer Pathophysiology: Pro-Tumorigenic Effects versus Therapeutic Potential. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13511. [PMID: 37686315 PMCID: PMC10488262 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713511] [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: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) are multipotent cells involved in numerous physiological events, including organogenesis, the maintenance of tissue homeostasis, regeneration, or tissue repair. MSCs are increasingly recognized as playing a major, dual, and complex role in cancer pathophysiology through their ability to limit or promote tumor progression. Indeed, these cells are known to interact with the tumor microenvironment, modulate the behavior of tumor cells, influence their functions, and promote distant metastasis formation through the secretion of mediators, the regulation of cell-cell interactions, and the modulation of the immune response. This dynamic network can lead to the establishment of immunoprivileged tissue niches or the formation of new tumors through the proliferation/differentiation of MSCs into cancer-associated fibroblasts as well as cancer stem cells. However, MSCs exhibit also therapeutic effects including anti-tumor, anti-proliferative, anti-inflammatory, or anti-oxidative effects. The therapeutic interest in MSCs is currently growing, mainly due to their ability to selectively migrate and penetrate tumor sites, which would make them relevant as vectors for advanced therapies. Therefore, this review aims to provide an overview of the double-edged sword implications of MSCs in tumor processes. The therapeutic potential of MSCs will be reviewed in melanoma and lung cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youssef Slama
- Unité de Recherche Études Pharmaco-Immunologiques (EPI), Université de La Réunion, CHU de La Réunion, Allée des Topazes, 97400 Saint-Denis, La Réunion, France; (F.A.-P.); (M.K.); (P.G.)
- Service de Radiothérapie, Clinique Sainte-Clotilde, Groupe Clinifutur, 127 Route de Bois de Nèfles, 97400 Saint-Denis, La Réunion, France; (M.B.); (F.D.)
- Laboratoire Interdisciplinaire de Recherche en Santé (LIRS), RunResearch, Clinique Sainte-Clotilde, 127 Route de Bois de Nèfles, 97400 Saint-Denis, La Réunion, France;
| | - Franck Ah-Pine
- Unité de Recherche Études Pharmaco-Immunologiques (EPI), Université de La Réunion, CHU de La Réunion, Allée des Topazes, 97400 Saint-Denis, La Réunion, France; (F.A.-P.); (M.K.); (P.G.)
- Service d’Anatomie et Cytologie Pathologiques, CHU de La Réunion sites SUD—Saint-Pierre, Avenue François Mitterrand, 97448 Saint-Pierre Cedex, La Réunion, France
| | - Mohamed Khettab
- Unité de Recherche Études Pharmaco-Immunologiques (EPI), Université de La Réunion, CHU de La Réunion, Allée des Topazes, 97400 Saint-Denis, La Réunion, France; (F.A.-P.); (M.K.); (P.G.)
- Service d’Oncologie Médicale, CHU de La Réunion sites SUD—Saint-Pierre, Avenue François Mitterrand, 97448 Saint-Pierre Cedex, La Réunion, France
| | - Angelique Arcambal
- Laboratoire Interdisciplinaire de Recherche en Santé (LIRS), RunResearch, Clinique Sainte-Clotilde, 127 Route de Bois de Nèfles, 97400 Saint-Denis, La Réunion, France;
| | - Mickael Begue
- Service de Radiothérapie, Clinique Sainte-Clotilde, Groupe Clinifutur, 127 Route de Bois de Nèfles, 97400 Saint-Denis, La Réunion, France; (M.B.); (F.D.)
- Laboratoire Interdisciplinaire de Recherche en Santé (LIRS), RunResearch, Clinique Sainte-Clotilde, 127 Route de Bois de Nèfles, 97400 Saint-Denis, La Réunion, France;
| | - Fabien Dutheil
- Service de Radiothérapie, Clinique Sainte-Clotilde, Groupe Clinifutur, 127 Route de Bois de Nèfles, 97400 Saint-Denis, La Réunion, France; (M.B.); (F.D.)
- Laboratoire Interdisciplinaire de Recherche en Santé (LIRS), RunResearch, Clinique Sainte-Clotilde, 127 Route de Bois de Nèfles, 97400 Saint-Denis, La Réunion, France;
| | - Philippe Gasque
- Unité de Recherche Études Pharmaco-Immunologiques (EPI), Université de La Réunion, CHU de La Réunion, Allée des Topazes, 97400 Saint-Denis, La Réunion, France; (F.A.-P.); (M.K.); (P.G.)
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Knipper K, Lyu SI, Quaas A, Bruns CJ, Schmidt T. Cancer-Associated Fibroblast Heterogeneity and Its Influence on the Extracellular Matrix and the Tumor Microenvironment. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13482. [PMID: 37686288 PMCID: PMC10487587 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment comprises multiple cell types, like cancer cells, endothelial cells, fibroblasts, and immune cells. In recent years, there have been massive research efforts focusing not only on cancer cells, but also on other cell types of the tumor microenvironment, thereby aiming to expand and determine novel treatment options. Fibroblasts represent a heterogenous cell family consisting of numerous subtypes, which can alter immune cell fractions, facilitate or inhibit tumor growth, build pre-metastatic niches, or stabilize vessels. These effects can be achieved through cell-cell interactions, which form the extracellular matrix, or via the secretion of cytokines or chemokines. The pro- or antitumorigenic fibroblast phenotypes show variability not only among different cancer entities, but also among intraindividual sites, including primary tumors or metastatic lesions. Commonly prescribed for arterial hypertension, the inhibitors of the renin-angiotensin system have recently been described as having an inhibitory effect on fibroblasts. This inhibition leads to modified immune cell fractions and increased tissue stiffness, thereby contributing to overcoming therapy resistance and ultimately inhibiting tumor growth. However, it is important to note that the inhibition of fibroblasts can also have the opposite effect, potentially resulting in increased tumor growth. We aim to summarize the latest state of research regarding fibroblast heterogeneity and its intricate impact on the tumor microenvironment and extracellular matrix. Specifically, we focus on highlighting recent advancements in the comprehension of intraindividual heterogeneity and therapy options within this context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karl Knipper
- Department of General, Visceral and Cancer Surgery, University Hospital of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany; (K.K.); (C.J.B.)
| | - Su Ir Lyu
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany; (S.I.L.); (A.Q.)
| | - Alexander Quaas
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany; (S.I.L.); (A.Q.)
| | - Christiane J. Bruns
- Department of General, Visceral and Cancer Surgery, University Hospital of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany; (K.K.); (C.J.B.)
| | - Thomas Schmidt
- Department of General, Visceral and Cancer Surgery, University Hospital of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, 50937 Cologne, Germany; (K.K.); (C.J.B.)
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Zhang Y, Lv N, Li M, Liu M, Wu C. Cancer-associated fibroblasts: tumor defenders in radiation therapy. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:541. [PMID: 37607935 PMCID: PMC10444767 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-06060-z] [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: 02/19/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are an important component of the tumor microenvironment that are involved in multiple aspects of cancer progression and considered contributors to tumor immune escape. CAFs exhibit a unique radiation resistance phenotype, and can survive clinical radiation doses; however, ionizing radiation can induce changes in their secretions and influence tumor progression by acting on tumor and immune cells. In this review, we describe current knowledge of the effects of radiation therapies on CAFs, as well as summarizing understanding of crosstalk among CAFs, tumor cells, and immune cells. We highlight the important role of CAFs in radiotherapy resistance, and discuss current and future radiotherapy strategies for targeting CAFs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yalin Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning, China
| | - Na Lv
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning, China
| | - Manshi Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning, China
| | - Ming Liu
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning, China.
| | - Chunli Wu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning, China.
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50
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Maharati A, Moghbeli M. Long non-coding RNAs as the critical regulators of PI3K/AKT, TGF-β, and MAPK signaling pathways during breast tumor progression. J Transl Med 2023; 21:556. [PMID: 37596669 PMCID: PMC10439650 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04434-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) as one of the most common causes of human deaths among women, is always considered one of the global health challenges. Despite various advances in diagnostic and therapeutic methods, a significant percentage of BC patients have a poor prognosis due to the lack of therapeutic response. Therefore, investigating the molecular mechanisms involved in BC progression can improve the therapeutic and diagnostic strategies in these patients. Cytokine and growth factor-dependent signaling pathways play a key role during BC progression. In addition to cytokines and growth factors, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have also important roles in regulation of such signaling pathways. Therefore, in the present review we discussed the role of lncRNAs in regulation of PI3K/AKT, MAPK, and TGF-β signaling pathways in breast tumor cells. It has been shown that lncRNAs mainly have an oncogenic role through the promotion of these signaling pathways in BC. This review can be an effective step in introducing the lncRNAs inhibition as a probable therapeutic strategy to reduce tumor growth by suppression of PI3K/AKT, MAPK, and TGF-β signaling pathways in BC patients. In addition, considering the oncogenic role and increased levels of lncRNAs expressions in majority of the breast tumors, lncRNAs can be also considered as the reliable diagnostic markers in BC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amirhosein Maharati
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Meysam Moghbeli
- Department of Medical Genetics and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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