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Du Q, Zhang M, Gao A, He T, Guo M. Epigenetic silencing ZSCAN23 promotes pancreatic cancer growth by activating Wnt signaling. Cancer Biol Ther 2024; 25:2302924. [PMID: 38226836 PMCID: PMC10793710 DOI: 10.1080/15384047.2024.2302924] [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: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the most malignant tumor. Zinc finger and SCAN domain-containing protein 23 (ZSCAN23) is a new member of the SCAN domain family. The expression regulation and biological function remain to be elucidated. In this study, we explored the epigenetic regulation and the function of ZSCAN23 in PDAC. ZSCAN23 was methylated in 60.21% (171/284) of PDAC and its expression was regulated by promoter region methylation. The expression of ZSCAN23 inhibited cell proliferation, colony formation, migration, invasion, and induced apoptosis and G1/S phase arrest. ZSCAN23 suppressed Panc10.05 cell xenograft growth in mice. Mechanistically, ZSCAN23 inhibited Wnt signaling by interacting with myosin heavy chain 9 (MYH9) in pancreatic cancer cells. ZSCAN23 is frequently methylated in PDAC and may serve as a detective marker. ZSCAN23 suppresses PDAC cell growth both in vitro and in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Du
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, People's Republic of China
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, the First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Meiying Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, the First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Aiai Gao
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, the First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Tao He
- Department of Pathology, Characteristic Medical Center of the Chinese People's Armed Police Force, Tianjin, People's Republic of China
| | - Mingzhou Guo
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, the First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- National Key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, the First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China
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Kong D, Wu Y, Tong B, Liang Y, Xu F, Chi X, Ni L, Tian G, Zhang G, Xu Z. CHES1 modulated tumorigenesis and senescence of pancreas cancer cells through repressing AKR1B10. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2024; 1870:167214. [PMID: 38718846 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2024.167214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), is characteristic by a heterogeneous tumor microenvironment and gene mutations, conveys a dismal prognosis and low response to chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Here, we found that checkpoint suppressor 1 (CHES1) served as a tumor repressor in PDAC and was associated with patient prognosis. Functional experiments indicated that CHES1 suppressed the proliferation and invasion of PDAC by modulating cellular senescence. To further identify the downstream factor of CHES1 in PDAC, label-free quantitative proteomics analysis was conducted, which showed that the oncogenic Aldo-keto reductase 1B10 (AKR1B10) was transcriptionally repressed by CHES1 in PDAC. And AKR1B10 facilitated the malignant activity and repressed senescent phenotype of PDAC cells. Moreover, pharmaceutical inhibition of AKR1B10 with Oleanolic acid (OA) significantly induced tumor regression and sensitized PDAC cells to gemcitabine, and this combined therapy did not cause obvious side effects. Rescued experiments revealed that CHES1 regulated the tumorigenesis and gemcitabine sensitivity through AKR1B10-mediated senescence in PDAC. In summary, this study revealed that the CHES1/AKR1B10 axis modulated the progression and cellular senescence in PDAC, which might provide revenues for drug-targeting and senescence-inducing therapies for PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Demin Kong
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center of Molecular Targeting and Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment, School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Yingying Wu
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center of Molecular Targeting and Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment, School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China; The Second Medical College, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Binghua Tong
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center of Molecular Targeting and Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment, School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Yonghui Liang
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center of Molecular Targeting and Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment, School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Fuyi Xu
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center of Molecular Targeting and Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment, School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Xiaodong Chi
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center of Molecular Targeting and Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment, School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Lei Ni
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center of Molecular Targeting and Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment, School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Geng Tian
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center of Molecular Targeting and Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment, School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Guilong Zhang
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center of Molecular Targeting and Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment, School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China
| | - Zhaowei Xu
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center of Molecular Targeting and Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment, School of Pharmacy, Binzhou Medical University, Yantai, China.
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Wu B, Yang X, Chen F, Song Z, Ding X, Wang X. Apolipoprotein E is a prognostic factor for pancreatic cancer and associates with immune infiltration. Cytokine 2024; 179:156628. [PMID: 38704962 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2024.156628] [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: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The expression level of apolipoprotein E (APOE) in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and its effect on the prognosis of PDAC patients are not clear. The effect of APOE on the immune status of patients with PDAC has not been elucidated. METHODS We obtained pancreatic cancer data from the TCGA and GETx databases. Patients with PDAC who underwent pancreatic surgery at the Second Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University between 2012 and 2021 were included. Clinical pathological data were recorded, plasma APOE levels were measured, and tissue samples were collected. A tissue microarray was generated using the collected tissue samples. APOE and CD4 staining was performed to determine immunoreactive scores (IRSs). The expression of APOE in the plasma and tumour tissues of pancreatic cancer patients was analysed and compared. The correlations between plasma APOE levels, tissue APOE levels and clinicopathological characteristics were analysed. Survival prognosis was analysed using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and Cox multivariate regression analysis. The correlations between APOE expression levels and immune biomarkers and immune cells were further analysed. Single-cell analysis of APOE distribution in various cells was performed on the TISCH website. RESULTS APOE was highly expressed in the tumour tissue of pancreatic cancer patients, and high plasma APOE levels were associated with poor prognosis. Females, patients with high-grade disease and patients with pancreatic head carcinoma had high plasma APOE levels. High APOE expression in tumour tissues was associated with good prognosis. Mononuclear macrophages in the pancreatic cancer microenvironment primarily expressed APOE. APOE levels positively correlated with immune biomarkers, such as CD8A, PDCD1, GZMA, CXCL10, and CXCL9, in the tumour microenvironment. APOE promoted CD4 + T cell or dendritic cell infiltration in the tumour microenvironment. CONCLUSIONS APOE may affect the occurrence and development of pancreatic cancer by regulating the infiltration of immune cells in the tumour microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Wu
- Department of Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, Zhejiang 314000, P.R. China
| | - Xiaodan Yang
- Department of Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, Zhejiang 314000, P.R. China
| | - Fei Chen
- Department of Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, Zhejiang 314000, P.R. China
| | - Zhengwei Song
- Department of Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, Zhejiang 314000, P.R. China
| | - Xuhui Ding
- Department of Hospital Sense,The Second Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, Zhejiang 314000, P.R. China.
| | - Xiaoguang Wang
- Department of Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, Zhejiang 314000, P.R. China.
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Li Y, Li D, Liu Q, Li J. Combined Efficacy of Nimotuzumab and Gemcitabine on the Treatment of Advanced Pancreatic cancer. Pancreas 2024; 53:e537-e542. [PMID: 38888842 DOI: 10.1097/mpa.0000000000002328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We sought to investigate whether the addition of nimotuzumab to gemcitabine would improve the treatment efficacy of advanced pancreatic cancer. METHODS This retrospective analysis involved a total of 98 hospitalized patients harboring advanced pancreatic cancer. Depending on the specific treatment, patients were divided into study groups and control groups. The clinical efficacy, adverse reactions, and follow-up results of the 2 groups were compared, and the physical status, CA724, CA19-9, and CEA levels before and after treatment were monitored and recorded. RESULTS After treatment, PR ratio, SD ratio, ORR, and DCR in the study group were significantly higher than those in the control group, and PD ratio was significantly lower than that in the control group (P < 0.05) the KPS score after treatment in the study group was markedly higher than that of the control group (P < 0.05). After treatment, however, significantly lower levels of the 3 indicators were observed when compared with the control group (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION Our study highlights a more superior combined efficacy of nimotuzumab and gemcitabine than the control regimen, exhibiting improved survival and reduced levels of CA724, CA19-9, and CEA in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Li
- From the Department of Oncology Department II, Huizhou First Hospital, Huizhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Dan Li
- Department of Medical Insurance Management, Huizhou Central People's Hospital, Huizhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Qianqian Liu
- The 3rd Ward in the Department of Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Jun Li
- From the Department of Oncology Department II, Huizhou First Hospital, Huizhou, Guangdong, China
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Song C, Wang G, Liu M, Han S, Dong M, Peng M, Wang W, Wang Y, Xu Y, Liu L. Deciphering the SOX4/MAPK1 regulatory axis: a phosphoproteomic insight into IQGAP1 phosphorylation and pancreatic Cancer progression. J Transl Med 2024; 22:602. [PMID: 38943117 PMCID: PMC11212360 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05377-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/01/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aims to elucidate the functional role of IQGAP1 phosphorylation modification mediated by the SOX4/MAPK1 regulatory axis in developing pancreatic cancer through phosphoproteomics analysis. METHODS Proteomics and phosphoproteomics data of pancreatic cancer were obtained from the Clinical Proteomic Tumor Analysis Consortium (CPTAC) database. Differential analysis, kinase-substrate enrichment analysis (KSEA), and independent prognosis analysis were performed on these datasets. Subtype analysis of pancreatic cancer patients was conducted based on the expression of prognostic-related proteins, and the prognosis of different subtypes was evaluated through prognosis analysis. Differential analysis of proteins in different subtypes was performed to identify differential proteins in the high-risk subtype. Clinical correlation analysis was conducted based on the expression of prognostic-related proteins, pancreatic cancer typing results, and clinical characteristics in the pancreatic cancer proteomics dataset. Functional pathway enrichment analysis was performed using GSEA/GO/KEGG, and most module proteins correlated with pancreatic cancer were selected using WGCNA analysis. In cell experiments, pancreatic cancer cells were grouped, and the expression levels of SOX4, MAPK1, and the phosphorylation level of IQGAP1 were detected by RT-qPCR and Western blot experiments. The effect of SOX4 on MAPK1 promoter transcriptional activity was assessed using a dual-luciferase assay, and the enrichment of SOX4 on the MAPK1 promoter was examined using a ChIP assay. The proliferation, migration, and invasion functions of grouped pancreatic cancer cells were assessed using CCK-8, colony formation, and Transwell assays. In animal experiments, the impact of SOX4 on tumor growth and metastasis through the regulation of MAPK1-IQGAP1 phosphorylation modification was studied by constructing subcutaneous and orthotopic pancreatic cancer xenograft models, as well as a liver metastasis model in nude mice. RESULTS Phosphoproteomics and proteomics data analysis revealed that the kinase MAPK1 may play an important role in pancreatic cancer progression by promoting IQGAP1 phosphorylation modification. Proteomics analysis classified pancreatic cancer patients into two subtypes, C1 and C2, where the high-risk C2 subtype was associated with poor prognosis, malignant tumor typing, and enriched tumor-related pathways. SOX4 may promote the occurrence of the high-risk C2 subtype of pancreatic cancer by regulating MAPK1-IQGAP1 phosphorylation modification. In vitro cell experiments confirmed that SOX4 promoted IQGAP1 phosphorylation modification by activating MAPK1 transcription while silencing SOX4 inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion of pancreatic cancer cells by reducing the phosphorylation level of MAPK1-IQGAP1. In vivo, animal experiments further confirmed that silencing SOX4 suppressed the growth and metastasis of pancreatic cancer by reducing the phosphorylation level of MAPK1-IQGAP1. CONCLUSION The findings of this study suggest that SOX4 promotes the phosphorylation modification of IQGAP1 by activating MAPK1 transcription, thereby facilitating the growth and metastasis of pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Song
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, No.180 Fenglin Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, PR China
- Department of General Surgery, Qingpu Branch, Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Qingpu Branch, No. 1158 Park Road East, Qingpu District, Shanghai, PR China
- Shanghai Institute of Infectious Disease and Biosecurity, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Ganggang Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Pudong Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Mengmeng Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Qingpu Branch, Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Siyang Han
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, No.180 Fenglin Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Meiyuan Dong
- Department of Endocrinology, Shanghai Pudong Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Maozhen Peng
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, No.180 Fenglin Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Wenquan Wang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, No.180 Fenglin Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Yicun Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Qingpu Branch, Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University, Qingpu Branch, No. 1158 Park Road East, Qingpu District, Shanghai, PR China.
| | - Yaolin Xu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, No.180 Fenglin Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, PR China.
| | - Liang Liu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, No.180 Fenglin Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, PR China.
- Shanghai Institute of Infectious Disease and Biosecurity, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China.
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Li Y, Du Y, Li R, Zhong W, Zou X, Li L, Xu L, Wu L, Che X. Spatial transcriptomics in pancreatic cancer: advances, prospects and challenges. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2024:104430. [PMID: 38942220 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2024.104430] [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: 03/14/2024] [Revised: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer remains one of the deadliest malignancies with an overall 5-year survival rate of 13%. This dismal fact can be partly attributed to currently limited understanding of tumor heterogeneity and immune microenvironment. Traditional bulk-sequencing techniques overlook the diversity of tumor cells, while single-cell sequencing disorganizes the position localizing of cells in tumor microenvironment. The advent of spatial transcriptomics (ST) presents a novel solution by integrating location and whole transcript expression information. This technology allows for detailed observation of spatio-temporal changes across various cell subtypes within the pancreatic tumor microenvironment, providing insights into their potential functions. This review offers an overview of recent studies implementing ST in pancreatic cancer research, highlighting its instrumental role in investigating the heterogeneity and functions of tumor cells, stromal cells, and immune cells. On the basis, we also prospected and summarized the clinical application scenarios, technical limitations and challenges of ST technology in pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunlong Li
- Department of Pancreatic and Gastric Surgery, National Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Yongxing Du
- Department of Pancreatic and Gastric Surgery, National Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Rui Li
- BGI Genomics, Shenzhen 518083, China
| | - Wenhui Zhong
- Department of Pancreatic and Gastric Surgery, National Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | | | - Liji Li
- College of Life Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Lin Xu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital and Shenzhen Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Shenzhen 518172, China
| | - Liang Wu
- BGI Genomics, Shenzhen 518083, China.
| | - Xu Che
- Department of Pancreatic and Gastric Surgery, National Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China; Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital and Shenzhen Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Shenzhen 518172, China.
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Giordano G, Cipolletta G, Mellone A, Puopolo G, Coppola L, De Santis E, Forte N, Napolitano F, Caruso FP, Parente P, Landriscina M, Cerulo L, Costa MC, Pancione M. Altered centriolar cohesion by CEP250 and appendages impact outcome of patients with pancreatic cancer. Pancreatology 2024:S1424-3903(24)00665-3. [PMID: 38942662 DOI: 10.1016/j.pan.2024.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 06/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/30/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the leading cause of cancer death worldwide. PDACs are characterized by centrosome aberrations, but whether centrosome-related genes influence patient outcomes has not been tested. METHODS Publicly available RNA-sequencing data of patients diagnosed with PDAC were interrogated with unsupervised approaches to identify centrosome protein-encoding genes with prognostic relevance. Candidate genes were validated by immunohistochemistry and multiplex immunofluorescence in a set of clinical PDAC and normal pancreatic tissues. RESULTS Results showed that two genes CEP250 and CEP170, involved in centrosome linker and centriolar subdistal appendages, were expressed at high levels in PDAC tissues and were correlated with prognosis of PDAC patients in independent databases. Large clustered γ-tubulin-labelled centrosomes were linked together by aberrant circular and planar-shaped CEP250 arrangements in CEP250-high expressing PDACs. Furthermore, PDACs displayed prominent centrosome separation and reduced CEP164-centrosomal labelling associated with acetylated-tubulin staining compared to normal pancreatic tissues. Interestingly, in a small validation cohort, CEP250-high expressing patients had shorter disease free- and overall-survival and almost none of those who received gemcitabine plus nab-paclitaxel first-line therapy achieved a clinical response. In contrast, weak CEP250 expression was associated with long-term survivors or responses to medical treatments. CONCLUSIONS Alteration of the centriolar cohesion and appendages has effect on the survival of patients with PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guido Giordano
- Unit of Medical Oncology and Biomolecular Therapy, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, Policlinico Riuniti, 71122, Foggia, Italy.
| | | | - Agostino Mellone
- Department of Science and Technology, University of Sannio, Benevento, Italy
| | - Giovanni Puopolo
- Department of Science and Technology, University of Sannio, Benevento, Italy
| | - Luigi Coppola
- UOC Anatomia ed Istologia Patologica e Citologia Diagnostica, Dipartimento dei Servizi Diagnostici e della Farmaceutica, Ospedale Sandro Pertini, ASL Roma 2, 00157, Rome, Italy
| | - Elena De Santis
- Department of Anatomical Histological Forensic Medicine and Orthopedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185, Roma, Italy
| | - Nicola Forte
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Fatebenefratelli Hospital, 82100, Benevento, Italy
| | | | - Francesca P Caruso
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology, University of Naples - Federico II, Italy; Bioinformatics Laboratory, BIOGEM scrl, Ariano Irpino, Avellino, Italy
| | - Paola Parente
- Unit of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS, Hospital House for the Relief of Suffering, San Giovanni Rotondo, Foggia, Italy
| | - Matteo Landriscina
- Unit of Medical Oncology and Biomolecular Therapy, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, Policlinico Riuniti, 71122, Foggia, Italy
| | - Luigi Cerulo
- Department of Science and Technology, University of Sannio, Benevento, Italy; Bioinformatics Laboratory, BIOGEM scrl, Ariano Irpino, Avellino, Italy
| | - Maria Claudia Costa
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology, University of Naples - Federico II, Italy; Bioinformatics Laboratory, BIOGEM scrl, Ariano Irpino, Avellino, Italy.
| | - Massimo Pancione
- Department of Science and Technology, University of Sannio, Benevento, Italy; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University Madrid, 28040, Madrid, Spain.
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Zheng Y, Xiong Q, Yang Y, Ma Y, Zhu Q. Identified γ-glutamyl cyclotransferase (GGCT) as a novel regulator in the progression and immunotherapy of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma through multi-omics analysis and experiments. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2024; 150:318. [PMID: 38914714 PMCID: PMC11196309 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-024-05789-0] [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: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is renowned for its formidable and lethal nature, earning it a notorious reputation among malignant tumors. Due to its challenging early diagnosis, high malignancy, and resistance to chemotherapy drugs, the treatment of pancreatic cancer has long been exceedingly difficult in the realm of oncology. γ-Glutamyl cyclotransferase (GGCT), a vital enzyme in glutathione metabolism, has been implicated in the proliferation and progression of several tumor types, while the biological function of GGCT in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma remains unknown. METHODS The expression profile of GGCT was validated through western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and RT-qPCR in both pancreatic cancer tissue samples and cell lines. Functional enrichment analyses including GSVA, ssGSEA, GO, and KEGG were conducted to explore the biological role of GGCT. Additionally, CCK8, Edu, colony formation, migration, and invasion assays were employed to evaluate the impact of GGCT on the proliferation and migration abilities of pancreatic cancer cells. Furthermore, the LASSO machine learning algorithm was utilized to develop a prognostic model associated with GGCT. RESULTS Our study revealed heightened expression of GGCT in pancreatic cancer tissues and cells, suggesting an association with poorer patient prognosis. Additionally, we explored the immunomodulatory effects of GGCT in both pan-cancer and pancreatic cancer contexts, found that GGCT may be associated with immunosuppressive regulation in various types of tumors. Specifically, in patients with high expression of GGCT in pancreatic cancer, there is a reduction in the infiltration of various immune cells, leading to poorer responsiveness to immunotherapy and worse survival rates. In vivo and in vitro assays indicate that downregulation of GGCT markedly suppresses the proliferation and metastasis of pancreatic cancer cells. Moreover, this inhibitory effect appears to be linked to the regulation of GGCT on c-Myc. A prognostic model was constructed based on genes derived from GGCT, demonstrating robust predictive ability for favorable survival prognosis and response to immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Zheng
- Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.37 Guoxue Alley, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Qunli Xiong
- Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.37 Guoxue Alley, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.37 Guoxue Alley, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Yifei Ma
- Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.37 Guoxue Alley, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Qing Zhu
- Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No.37 Guoxue Alley, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
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9
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Nedelcu A, Mocan T, Sabau LI, Matea CT, Tabaran F, Pop T, Delcea C, Mosteanu O, Mocan L. In vitro photothermal therapy of pancreatic cancer mediated by immunoglobulin G-functionalized silver nanoparticles. Sci Rep 2024; 14:14417. [PMID: 38909066 PMCID: PMC11193743 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-63142-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is one of the most aggressive forms of cancer, and treatment options are limited. One therapeutic approach is to use nanoparticles to deliver the active agent directly to pancreatic cancer cells. Nanoparticles can be designed to specifically target cancer cells, minimizing damage to healthy tissues. Silver nanoparticles have the unique ability to absorb light, especially in the near-infrared (NIR) region. In this study, silver nanoparticles functionalized with IgG molecules were synthesized and administered to pancreatic cancer cell lines. Subsequently, the cells were photo-excited using a 2 W 808 nm laser and further examined in PANC-1 pancreatic cancer cell lines. Flow cytometry and confocal microscopy combined with immunochemical staining were used to examine the interaction between photo-excited silver nanoparticles and pancreatic cancer cells. The photothermal therapy based on IgG-functionalized silver nanoparticles in pancreatic cancer induces dysfunction in the Golgi apparatus, leading to the activation of the caspase-3 apoptotic pathway and ultimately resulting in cellular apoptosis. These findings suggest that our proposed IgG nanoparticle laser treatment could emerge as a novel approach for the therapy of pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreea Nedelcu
- 3rd Surgery Clinic, "Iuliu Hatieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, ClujNapoca, Romania
- Nanomedicine Department, Regional Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, ClujNapoca, Romania
| | - Teodora Mocan
- Nanomedicine Department, Regional Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, ClujNapoca, Romania.
- Physiology Department, "Iuliu Hatieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, ClujNapoca, Romania.
| | - Lavinia Ioana Sabau
- Physiology Department, "Iuliu Hatieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, ClujNapoca, Romania
| | - Cristian Tudor Matea
- Nanomedicine Department, Regional Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, ClujNapoca, Romania
- Department of Biosciences, University of Salzburg, Hellbrunnerstraße 34, 5020, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Flaviu Tabaran
- Department of Pathology, Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural, ClujNapoca, Romania
| | - Teodora Pop
- 3rd Surgery Clinic, "Iuliu Hatieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, ClujNapoca, Romania
- Department of Gastroenterology, "Iuliu Hatieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, ClujNapoca, Romania
| | - Cristian Delcea
- Department of Forensic Medicine, "Iuliu Hatieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, ClujNapoca, Romania.
| | - Ofelia Mosteanu
- 3rd Surgery Clinic, "Iuliu Hatieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, ClujNapoca, Romania
- Department of Gastroenterology, "Iuliu Hatieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, ClujNapoca, Romania
| | - Lucian Mocan
- 3rd Surgery Clinic, "Iuliu Hatieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, ClujNapoca, Romania.
- Nanomedicine Department, Regional Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, ClujNapoca, Romania.
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10
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Ye J, Suizu F, Yamakawa K, Mukai Y, Yoneyama H, Kondo J, Kato M, Nishiyama A, Yahagi N, Kadota K. Intra-tumoral administration of CHST15 siRNA remodels tumor microenvironment and augments tumor-infiltrating T cells in pancreatic cancer. MOLECULAR THERAPY. ONCOLOGY 2024; 32:200812. [PMID: 38799652 PMCID: PMC11127163 DOI: 10.1016/j.omton.2024.200812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
The dense stroma is one cause of poor efficacy of T cell-mediated immunotherapy in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Carbohydrate sulfotransferase 15 (CHST15) is a proteoglycan-synthetic enzyme responsible for remodeling tumor stroma. Intra-tumoral injection of CHST15 small interfering RNA (siRNA) has been shown to increase the tumor-infiltrating T cells (TILs) in patients with unresectable PDAC. However, the mechanism underlying the enhanced accumulation of TILs is not fully explored. Here, we demonstrate that intra-tumoral injection of CHST15 siRNA locally and remotely diminishes myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and enhances TILs in mice. CHST15 was expressed by tumor cells and MDSCs in both tumor and tumor-draining lymph nodes (TDLNs), and CHST15 siRNA repressed stromal density, neutrophil extracellular traps, and Ly6C/G+ MDSCs in vivo. Remarkably, tumor growth inhibition was only observed in the immunocompetent KPC model, which is associated with enhanced TILs. In vitro, CHST15 siRNA significantly downregulated the levels of CHST15 and indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase mRNA in CD33+ MDSCs derived from human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. These results suggest a dual role for intra-tumorally injected CHST15 siRNA on modulating the tumor immune microenvironment for T cell entry and remotely diminishing CHST15+ MDSCs, decreasing T cell suppression and expanding T cells in the TDLN, ultimately leading to an enhanced accumulation of TILs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juanjuan Ye
- Molecular Oncologic Pathology, Department of Pathology and Host-Defense, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, Kita-gun 761-0793, Kagawa, Japan
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, Kita-gun, Kagawa 761-0793, Japan
| | - Futoshi Suizu
- Molecular Oncologic Pathology, Department of Pathology and Host-Defense, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, Kita-gun 761-0793, Kagawa, Japan
| | - Keiko Yamakawa
- Molecular Oncologic Pathology, Department of Pathology and Host-Defense, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, Kita-gun 761-0793, Kagawa, Japan
| | - Yuri Mukai
- Molecular Oncologic Pathology, Department of Pathology and Host-Defense, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, Kita-gun 761-0793, Kagawa, Japan
| | | | - Jiro Kondo
- Department of Materials and Life Sciences, Sophia University, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 102-8554, Japan
| | - Motohiko Kato
- Center for Diagnostic and Therapeutic Endoscopy, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Akira Nishiyama
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, Kita-gun, Kagawa 761-0793, Japan
| | - Naohisa Yahagi
- Division of Research and Development for Minimally Invasive Treatment, Cancer Center, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Kyuichi Kadota
- Molecular Oncologic Pathology, Department of Pathology and Host-Defense, Faculty of Medicine, Kagawa University, Kita-gun 761-0793, Kagawa, Japan
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11
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Chen C, Jiang YP, You I, Gray NS, Lin RZ. Down-Regulation of AKT Proteins Slows the Growth of Mutant-KRAS Pancreatic Tumors. Cells 2024; 13:1061. [PMID: 38920688 PMCID: PMC11202146 DOI: 10.3390/cells13121061] [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: 05/07/2024] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Serine/threonine kinase AKT isoforms play a well-established role in cell metabolism and growth. Most pancreatic adenocarcinomas (PDACs) harbor activation mutations of KRAS, which activates the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. However, AKT inhibitors are not effective in the treatment of pancreatic cancer. To better understand the role of AKT signaling in mutant-KRAS pancreatic tumors, this study utilized proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) and CRISPR-Cas9-genome editing to investigate AKT proteins. The PROTAC down-regulation of AKT proteins markedly slowed the growth of three pancreatic tumor cell lines harboring mutant KRAS. In contrast, the inhibition of AKT kinase activity alone had very little effect on the growth of these cell lines. The concurrent genetic deletion of all AKT isoforms (AKT1, AKT2, and AKT3) in the KPC (KrasG12D; Trp53R172H; Pdx1-Cre) pancreatic cancer cell line also dramatically slowed its growth in vitro and when orthotopically implanted in syngeneic mice. Surprisingly, insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), but not epidermal growth factor (EGF), restored KPC cell growth in serum-deprived conditions, and the IGF-1 growth stimulation effect was AKT-dependent. The RNA-seq analysis of AKT1/2/3-deficient KPC cells suggested that reduced cholesterol synthesis may be responsible for the decreased response to IGF-1 stimulation. These results indicate that the presence of all three AKT isoforms supports pancreatic tumor cell growth, and the pharmacological degradation of AKT proteins may be more effective than AKT catalytic inhibitors for treating pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuankai Chen
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA; (C.C.); (Y.-P.J.)
- Graduate Program in Genetics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11790, USA
| | - Ya-Ping Jiang
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA; (C.C.); (Y.-P.J.)
| | - Inchul You
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, ChEM-H, and Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; (I.Y.); (N.S.G.)
| | - Nathanael S. Gray
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, ChEM-H, and Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; (I.Y.); (N.S.G.)
| | - Richard Z. Lin
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY 11794, USA; (C.C.); (Y.-P.J.)
- Northport VA Medical Center, Northport, NY 11768, USA
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12
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Shapoval O, Patsula V, Větvička D, Engstová H, Oleksa V, Kabešová M, Vasylyshyn T, Poučková P, Horák D. Temoporfin-Conjugated PEGylated Poly( N, N-dimethylacrylamide)-Coated Upconversion Colloid for NIR-Induced Photodynamic Therapy of Pancreatic Cancer. Biomacromolecules 2024. [PMID: 38888278 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.4c00317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has the potential to cure pancreatic cancer with minimal side effects. Visible wavelengths are primarily used to activate hydrophobic photosensitizers, but in clinical practice, these wavelengths do not sufficiently penetrate deeper localized tumor cells. In this work, NaYF4:Yb3+,Er3+,Fe2+ upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) were coated with polymer and labeled with meta-tetra(hydroxyphenyl)chlorin (mTHPC; temoporfin) to enable near-infrared light (NIR)-triggered PDT of pancreatic cancer. The coating consisted of alendronate-terminated poly[N,N-dimethylacrylamide-co-2-aminoethylacrylamide]-graft-poly(ethylene glycol) [P(DMA-AEM)-PEG-Ale] to ensure the chemical and colloidal stability of the particles in aqueous physiological fluids, thereby also improving the therapeutic efficacy. The designed particles were well tolerated by the human pancreatic adenocarcinoma cell lines CAPAN-2, PANC-1, and PA-TU-8902. After intratumoral injection of mTHPC-conjugated polymer-coated UCNPs and subsequent exposure to 980 nm NIR light, excellent PDT efficacy was achieved in tumor-bearing mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oleksandr Shapoval
- Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Heyrovského Nám. 2, 162 00 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Vitalii Patsula
- Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Heyrovského Nám. 2, 162 00 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - David Větvička
- First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Salmovská 1, 120 00 Prague 2, Czech Republic
| | - Hana Engstová
- Institute of Physiology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Vídeňská 1083, 142 20 Prague 4, Czech Republic
| | - Viktoriia Oleksa
- Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Heyrovského Nám. 2, 162 00 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Martina Kabešová
- First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Salmovská 1, 120 00 Prague 2, Czech Republic
| | - Taras Vasylyshyn
- Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Heyrovského Nám. 2, 162 00 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Pavla Poučková
- First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Salmovská 1, 120 00 Prague 2, Czech Republic
| | - Daniel Horák
- Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Heyrovského Nám. 2, 162 00 Prague 6, Czech Republic
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13
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Noè R, Carrer A. Diet predisposes to pancreatic cancer through cellular nutrient sensing pathways. FEBS Lett 2024. [PMID: 38886112 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.14959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is a lethal disease with limited effective treatments. A deeper understanding of its molecular mechanisms is crucial to reduce incidence and mortality. Epidemiological evidence suggests a link between diet and disease risk, though dietary recommendations for at-risk individuals remain debated. Here, we propose that cell-intrinsic nutrient sensing pathways respond to specific diet-derived cues to facilitate oncogenic transformation of pancreatic epithelial cells. This review explores how diet influences pancreatic cancer predisposition through nutrient sensing and downstream consequences for (pre-)cancer cell biology. We also examine experimental evidence connecting specific food intake to pancreatic cancer progression, highlighting nutrient sensing as a promising target for therapeutic development to mitigate disease risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Noè
- Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine (VIMM), Padua, Italy
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Alessandro Carrer
- Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine (VIMM), Padua, Italy
- Department of Biology, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
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14
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Aydemir D, Öztürk K, Arslan FB, Çalis S, Ulusu NN. Gemcitabine-loaded chitosan nanoparticles enhanced apoptotic and ferroptotic response of gemcitabine treatment alone in the pancreatic cancer cells in vitro. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024:10.1007/s00210-024-03193-6. [PMID: 38884675 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-024-03193-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
Gemcitabine (GEM) is a first-line treatment for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) patients, causing side effects and poor overall survival. Eighty percent of patients often develop resistance rapidly to GEM. Developing therapeutic approaches and increasing sensitivity to gemcitabine in PDAC has become one of the challenges in cancer research. We synthesized GEM-loaded NPs prepared with a method that combines ultrasonication and ionotropic gelation to overcome GEM-related limitations in PDAC. CFPAC-1 cells were treated with increased concentrations of GEM, empty chitosan, and GEM-loaded NPs (0.66, 1.32, 2.64, 5.32 µg/ml) for up to 48 h. Empty chitosan NPs did not show toxicity on L929 cells. Antioxidant enzyme activities, including glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD), 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase (6-PGD), glutathione reductase (GR), glutathione s-transferase (GST), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), significantly reduced in GEM-loaded NPs compared to the GEM associated with increased oxidative stress, PPP, and glycolysis. Bcl-xL, NOXA/mcl-1, and Ca2+ levels significantly increased in GEM-loaded NP-administered cells compared to the GEM and control groups. In contrast, JNK, p38, STAT3, Akt, and CREB levels significantly decreased in the GEM-loaded NP group, addressing enhanced apoptotic response compared to the GEM alone. Increased ferroptosis activity in GEM-loaded NP-administered groups has been validated via decreased antioxidant enzyme activities, increased cytosolic Fe, Zn, Mg, and Mn levels, and reduced GPx activity compared to the GEM and control groups. For the first time in the literature, we showed biocompatible GEM-loaded NPs enhanced apoptotic and ferroptotic response in CFPAC-1 cells via downregulation of antioxidant, glycolysis, and PPP metabolism compared to the GEM alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duygu Aydemir
- School of Medicine, Department of Medical Biochemistry, Koc University, Istanbul, Turkey.
- Koç University Research Center for Translational Medicine (KUTTAM), Istanbul, Turkey.
- Biochemistry Department, Koc University School of Medicine, Rumelifeneri Yolu, Sariyer, Istanbul, 34450, Turkey.
| | - Kıvılcım Öztürk
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Fatma Betül Arslan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Sema Çalis
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Nuriye Nuray Ulusu
- School of Medicine, Department of Medical Biochemistry, Koc University, Istanbul, Turkey.
- Koç University Research Center for Translational Medicine (KUTTAM), Istanbul, Turkey.
- Biochemistry Department, Koc University School of Medicine, Rumelifeneri Yolu, Sariyer, Istanbul, 34450, Turkey.
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15
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Li L, Kasza J, Recasens A, Ioannou L, Greenhill E, Merrett N, Cavallucci D, Ellis S, Madgwick H, Ko HS, Chantrill L, Loveday B, Nikfarjam M, Croagh D, Yang J, Dwyer A, Zalcberg J, Pilgrim C. SCANPatient: study protocol for a multi-centre, batched, stepped wedge, comparative effectiveness, randomised clinical trial of synoptic reporting of computerised tomography (CT) scans assessing cancers of the pancreas. Trials 2024; 25:388. [PMID: 38886755 PMCID: PMC11181632 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-024-08196-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Complete surgical removal of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is central to all curative treatment approaches for this aggressive disease, yet this is only possible in patients technically amenable to resection. Hence, an accurate assessment of whether patients are suitable for surgery is of paramount importance. The SCANPatient trial aims to test whether implementing a structured synoptic radiological report results in increased institutional accuracy in defining surgical resectability of non-metastatic PDAC. METHODS SCANPatient is a batched, stepped wedge, comparative effectiveness, cluster randomised clinical trial. The trial will be conducted at 33 Australian hospitals all of which hold regular multi-disciplinary team meetings (MDMs) to discuss newly diagnosed patients with PDAC. Each site is required to manage a minimum of 20 patients per year (across all stages). Hospitals will be randomised to begin synoptic reporting within a batched, stepped wedge design. Initially all hospitals will continue to use their current reporting method; within each batch, after each 6-month period, a randomly selected group of hospitals will commence using the synoptic reports, until all hospitals are using synoptic reporting. Each hospital will provide data from patients who (i) are aged 18 or older; (ii) have suspected PDAC and have an abdominal CT scan, and (iii) are presented at a participating MDM. Non-metastatic patients will be documented as one of the following categories: (1) locally advanced and surgically unresectable; (2) borderline resectable; or (3) anatomically clearly resectable (Note: Metastatic disease is treated as a separate category). Data collection will last for 36 months in each batch, and a total of 2400 patients will be included. DISCUSSION Better classifying patients with non-metastatic PDAC as having tumours that are either clearly resectable, borderline or locally advanced and unresectable may improve patient outcomes by optimising care and treatment planning. The borderline resectable group are a small but important cohort in whom surgery with curative intent may be considered; however, inconsistencies with definitions and an understanding of resectability status means these patients are often incorrectly classified and hence overlooked for curative options. TRIAL REGISTRATION The SCANPatient trial was registered on 17th May 2023 in the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR) (ACTRN12623000508673).
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Li
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Jessica Kasza
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Ariadna Recasens
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Monash Program, Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Liane Ioannou
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Elysia Greenhill
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Monash Program, Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Neil Merrett
- Department of Surgery, Western Sydney University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - David Cavallucci
- Department of Surgery, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Herston, QLD, Australia
| | - Samantha Ellis
- Department of Radiology, Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Helen Madgwick
- CRP Consumer Reference Group, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Hyun Soo Ko
- Department of Cancer Imaging, The Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- The Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Lorraine Chantrill
- Department of Medical Oncology, Wollongong Hospital, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
- Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Benjamin Loveday
- Department of Surgery, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Daniel Croagh
- Department of Surgery, Monash Medical Centre, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Jessica Yang
- Department of Radiology, Concord Hospital, Concord, NSW, Australia
| | - Andrew Dwyer
- SA Node National Imaging Facility, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, SA, Australia
| | - John Zalcberg
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Charles Pilgrim
- Cancer Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Level 5, 553 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia.
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16
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Mukund A, Afridi MA, Karolak A, Park MA, Permuth JB, Rasool G. Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma (PDAC): A Review of Recent Advancements Enabled by Artificial Intelligence. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2240. [PMID: 38927945 PMCID: PMC11201559 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16122240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2024] [Revised: 06/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains one of the most formidable challenges in oncology, characterized by its late detection and poor prognosis. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are emerging as pivotal tools in revolutionizing PDAC care across various dimensions. Consequently, many studies have focused on using AI to improve the standard of PDAC care. This review article attempts to consolidate the literature from the past five years to identify high-impact, novel, and meaningful studies focusing on their transformative potential in PDAC management. Our analysis spans a broad spectrum of applications, including but not limited to patient risk stratification, early detection, and prediction of treatment outcomes, thereby highlighting AI's potential role in enhancing the quality and precision of PDAC care. By categorizing the literature into discrete sections reflective of a patient's journey from screening and diagnosis through treatment and survivorship, this review offers a comprehensive examination of AI-driven methodologies in addressing the multifaceted challenges of PDAC. Each study is summarized by explaining the dataset, ML model, evaluation metrics, and impact the study has on improving PDAC-related outcomes. We also discuss prevailing obstacles and limitations inherent in the application of AI within the PDAC context, offering insightful perspectives on potential future directions and innovations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashwin Mukund
- Department of Machine Learning, Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, 12902 USF Magnolia Drive, Tampa, FL 33612, USA; (A.M.); (A.K.)
| | - Muhammad Ali Afridi
- School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (SEECS), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad 44000, Pakistan;
| | - Aleksandra Karolak
- Department of Machine Learning, Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, 12902 USF Magnolia Drive, Tampa, FL 33612, USA; (A.M.); (A.K.)
| | - Margaret A. Park
- Departments of Cancer Epidemiology and Gastrointestinal Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, 12902 USF Magnolia Drive, Tampa, FL 33612, USA; (M.A.P.); (J.B.P.)
| | - Jennifer B. Permuth
- Departments of Cancer Epidemiology and Gastrointestinal Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, 12902 USF Magnolia Drive, Tampa, FL 33612, USA; (M.A.P.); (J.B.P.)
| | - Ghulam Rasool
- Department of Machine Learning, Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, 12902 USF Magnolia Drive, Tampa, FL 33612, USA; (A.M.); (A.K.)
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17
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Song N, Cui K, Zeng L, Fan Y, Wang Z, Shi P, Su W, Wang H. Calpain 8 as a potential biomarker regulates the progression of pancreatic cancer via EMT and AKT/ERK pathway. J Proteomics 2024; 301:105182. [PMID: 38697284 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2024.105182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024]
Abstract
Calpain is a non-lysozyme, calcium-dependent intracellular cysteine protease that has been shown to play a role in tumor proliferation, survival, migration, invasion, and apoptosis. Dysregulation of calpain expression is closely related to tumorigenesis. However, the role of calpain-8 (CAPN8), as a member of the calpain family, in pancreatic cancer (PC) is remains unclear. In elucidating the mechanism of CAPN8 in PC, a comprehensive bioinformatics analysis and in vitro experiments were conducted. The TCGA database was used to explore the expression level of CAPN8, and the results in PC tissues and cell lines were verified. Then, the correlation between CAPN8 and clinicopathological features was analyzed. Additionaly, promoter methylation, immune infiltration, and GO/KEGG enrichment analyses were performed. Lastly, the molecular mechanism of CAPN8 in PC was investigated by using cell counting kit (CCK) 8, transwell, wound healing, Western blot assays, and so on. Results indicate that CAPN8 was highly expressed in PC and correlated with poor prognosis and advanced TNM stage. In addition, a low level of immune infiltration was closely associated with the high expression level of CAPN8. Based on these findings, we hypothesized that CAPN8 is a potential biomarker that regulates progression of PC via EMT and the AKT/ERK pathway. SIGNIFICANCE: Through comprehensive biological information and in vitro experiments, CAPN8 has been confirmed to play an important role in regulating pancreatic cancer (PC) proliferation, migration and invasion. CAPN8 is found to be closely related to the diagnosis, survival and prognosis of PC. Above all, CAPN8 may be a potential biomarker for the diagnosis and prognosis of PC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Song
- Department of Pathology, Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Tumor Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453100, China; Department of Pathology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453000, China
| | - Kai Cui
- Department of Pathology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453000, China
| | - Liqun Zeng
- Department of Pathology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453000, China
| | - Yanwu Fan
- Department of Pathology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453000, China
| | - Ziwei Wang
- Department of Pathology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453000, China
| | - Pingyu Shi
- Department of Pathology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453000, China
| | - Wei Su
- Department of Pathology, Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Tumor Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453100, China.
| | - Haijun Wang
- Department of Pathology, Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Tumor Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453100, China; Department of Pathology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453000, China.
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18
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Liu GH, Tan XY, Xu ZY, Li JX, Zhong GH, Zhai JW, Li MY. REEP3 is a potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarker correlated with immune infiltration in pancreatic cancer. Sci Rep 2024; 14:13834. [PMID: 38879709 PMCID: PMC11180088 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-64720-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Receptor Expression-Enhancing Protein 3 (REEP3) serves as a pivotal enzyme crucial for endoplasmic reticulum (ER) clearance during mitosis and is implicated in the advancement of diverse malignancies. Nonetheless, the biological role and mechanisms of REEP3 in pancreatic cancer patients, along with its interplay with immune infiltration, remain inadequately elucidated. In this study, we initially analyzed the differential expression of REEP3 between pancreatic cancer tissues and normal pancreas tissues using the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), GTEx and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases. Subsequently, we utilized Kaplan-Meier analysis, Cox regression and ROC curve to determine the predictive value of REEP3 for the clinical outcomes of pancreatic cancer patients. Functional enrichment analyses, including Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA), were conducted to explore the potential signaling pathways and biological functions associated with pancreatic cancer. Furthermore, we investigated the PPI network, miRNA, RBP and transcription factor interactions of REEP3 using databases such as GeneMania, STRING, StarBase, KnockTK, ENCODE, Jaspar and hTFtarget. Lastly, the "ssGSEA" algorithm and TIMER database were employed to investigate the correlation between REEP3 expression and immune infiltration as well as immune checkpoints. The expression of REEP3 in pancreatic cancer showed a significantly higher level compared to that in normal tissues. ROC curve analysis indicated that REEP3 holds substantial diagnostic potential for pancreatic cancer patients. Elevated REEP3 expression correlated with unfavorable outcomes in terms of both overall survival and relapse-free survival, establishing it as a notable adverse prognostic marker in pancreatic cancer. Moreover, both univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses demonstrated that REEP3 maintained an independent association with overall survival. Functional enrichment analyses revealed pathways significantly linked to REEP3, including cytoplasmic translation, wound healing, viral processes, regulation of cellular component size and actin filament organization. Additionally, REEP3 expression displayed a significant positive correlation with CD8+ T cells, B cells, natural killer cells, dendritic cells and macrophages. REEP3 is a potential diagnostic, prognostic marker and immunotherapeutic target for pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guo-Hua Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524000, Guangdong, China
- Institute of Surgery, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510630, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiao-Yu Tan
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524000, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhen-Yue Xu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524000, Guangdong, China
| | - Jia-Xing Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524000, Guangdong, China
| | - Guo-Hui Zhong
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524000, Guangdong, China
| | - Jing-Wei Zhai
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524000, Guangdong, China
| | - Ming-Yi Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524000, Guangdong, China.
- Institute of Surgery, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510630, Guangdong, China.
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19
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De Lazzari N, Götte M, Kasper S, Meier E, Schuler M, Pogorzelski M, Siveke JT, Tewes M. P-move: a randomized control trial of exercise in patients with advanced pancreatic or biliary tract cancer (aPBC) receiving beyond first-line chemotherapy. Support Care Cancer 2024; 32:437. [PMID: 38879700 PMCID: PMC11180022 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-024-08650-9] [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: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/19/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Patients with advanced pancreatic and biliary tract cancer (aPBC) frequently suffer from high symptom burden. Exercise can reduce treatment side effects and improve patient-related outcomes (PROMs). However, evidence from prospective studies regarding feasibility and efficacy in advanced settings are sparse. The primary aim of this prospective, randomized-controlled study was to evaluate the feasibility and effects of exercise (ET) in patients with aPBC. METHODS Patients with aPBC beyond first-line therapy were randomized according to the minimization procedure with stratification by gender, age, and loss of body weight in the past six months. The intervention group (IG) completed 3 training units/week for 8 weeks (1x supervised strength sessions, 2x individualized home-based sessions). Control group (CG) received recommendations on physical activity during cancer. RESULTS 41 patients (stage IV pancreatic or biliary tract cancer) were included no adverse events related to exercise occurred during the trial. Physical function increased significantly in IG in 5 out of 7 physical domains. Comparison of IG and CG at 8 weeks (t2) showed significant differences in favour of IG in leg press (p=0.001), bench press (p=0.011), sit-to-stand (p=0.001) and crunch (0.006). Constipation revealed a significant difference in favour of IG at t2 (p=0.033). Quality of life stabilized/increased in IG during the study period compared to a decrease in CG. Throughout/Over the 8 weeks, fatigue notably reduced in the IG (p=0.028). CONCLUSION Exercise is safe and feasible in patients with aPBC undergoing further line therapy. Significant improvements in physical functioning and increased quality of life were achieved. German Clinical Trials Register ID: DRKS00021179; Registration date 15.05.2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nico De Lazzari
- Department of Medical Oncology, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, 45147, Essen, Germany
- West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- Department of Palliative Medicine, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, Margot-von-Bonin-Haus, 2. Floor, Room 2.017, Hohlweg 8, 45147, Essen, Germany
| | - Miriam Götte
- West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Stefan Kasper
- Department of Medical Oncology, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, 45147, Essen, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), partner site Essen, a partnership between German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and University Hospital Essen, 45147, Essen, Germany
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) West, Campus Essen, University Hospital Essen, 45147, Essen, Germany
| | - Eileen Meier
- Department of Medical Oncology, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, 45147, Essen, Germany
- Bridge Institute of Experimental Tumor Therapy (BIT) and Division of Solid Tumor Translational Oncology (DKTK), West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45147, Essen, Germany
| | - Martin Schuler
- Department of Medical Oncology, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, 45147, Essen, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), partner site Essen, a partnership between German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and University Hospital Essen, 45147, Essen, Germany
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) West, Campus Essen, University Hospital Essen, 45147, Essen, Germany
| | - Michael Pogorzelski
- Department of Medical Oncology, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, 45147, Essen, Germany
| | - Jens T Siveke
- Department of Medical Oncology, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, 45147, Essen, Germany
- Division of Solid Tumor Translational Oncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK Partner Site Essen) and German Cancer Research Center, DKFZ, Heidelberg, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), partner site Essen, a partnership between German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and University Hospital Essen, 45147, Essen, Germany
- Bridge Institute of Experimental Tumor Therapy (BIT) and Division of Solid Tumor Translational Oncology (DKTK), West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, 45147, Essen, Germany
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) West, Campus Essen, University Hospital Essen, 45147, Essen, Germany
| | - Mitra Tewes
- Department of Palliative Medicine, West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Essen, Margot-von-Bonin-Haus, 2. Floor, Room 2.017, Hohlweg 8, 45147, Essen, Germany.
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20
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Chen Y, Ye Z, Ma M, Yang J, Liu R, Zhang Y, Ma P, Song D. Electrochemiluminescence biosensor for specific detection of pancreatic ductal carcinoma through dual targeting of MUC1 and miRNA-196a. Biosens Bioelectron 2024; 254:116241. [PMID: 38527406 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2024.116241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) poses significant diagnostic challenges due to its asymptomatic nature in its early stages, low specificity of conventional in vitro assays, and limited efficacy of surgical interventions. However, clinical specificity of the current serum biomarkers is suboptimal, leading to diagnostic inaccuracies and oversights. Therefore, this study introduced a novel dual-target electrochemiluminescence (ECL) biosensor to address these critical issues. The ECL biosensor synergistically employs the serum biomarker MUC1 and microRNA-196a to detect early-stage PDAC precisely. While MUC1 is a differential marker between normal and cancerous pancreatic cells, its standalone diagnostic performance is limited. However, integrating miRNA-196a as a complementary marker substantially enhances the specificity of the assay. This biosensor exhibits distinct ECL signal modulation-"on-off" in the presence of MUC1 and "off-on" upon concurrent detection of MUC1 and miRNA-196a. The biosensor achieves remarkably low limits of detection (LODs) at 0.63 fg mL-1 and 4.57 aM for MUC1 and miRNA-196a, respectively. Thus, it facilitates the real-time differentiation between human normal pancreatic (hTERT-HPNE) and pancreatic cancer (PANC-1) cells in authentic biological matrices. This innovative approach heralds a significant advancement in the early and specific detection of PDAC, offering promising prospects for clinical translation and the broader landscape of cancer diagnostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxuan Chen
- College of Chemistry, Jilin Province Research Center for Engineering and Technology of Spectral Analytical Instruments, Jilin University, Qianjin Street 2699, Changchun, 130012, China
| | - Zhuoxin Ye
- College of Chemistry, Jilin Province Research Center for Engineering and Technology of Spectral Analytical Instruments, Jilin University, Qianjin Street 2699, Changchun, 130012, China
| | - Mo Ma
- College of Chemistry, Jilin Province Research Center for Engineering and Technology of Spectral Analytical Instruments, Jilin University, Qianjin Street 2699, Changchun, 130012, China; School of Pharmacy, Jilin University, Qianjin Street 2699, Changchun, 130012, China
| | - Jukun Yang
- College of Chemistry, Jilin Province Research Center for Engineering and Technology of Spectral Analytical Instruments, Jilin University, Qianjin Street 2699, Changchun, 130012, China
| | - Ruiyan Liu
- College of Chemistry, Jilin Province Research Center for Engineering and Technology of Spectral Analytical Instruments, Jilin University, Qianjin Street 2699, Changchun, 130012, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- College of Chemistry, Jilin Province Research Center for Engineering and Technology of Spectral Analytical Instruments, Jilin University, Qianjin Street 2699, Changchun, 130012, China
| | - Pinyi Ma
- College of Chemistry, Jilin Province Research Center for Engineering and Technology of Spectral Analytical Instruments, Jilin University, Qianjin Street 2699, Changchun, 130012, China.
| | - Daqian Song
- College of Chemistry, Jilin Province Research Center for Engineering and Technology of Spectral Analytical Instruments, Jilin University, Qianjin Street 2699, Changchun, 130012, China.
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21
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Ibello E, Saracino F, Delle Cave D, Buonaiuto S, Amoroso F, Andolfi G, Corona M, Guardiola O, Colonna V, Sainz B, Altucci L, De Cesare D, Cobellis G, Lonardo E, Patriarca EJ, D'Aniello C, Minchiotti G. Three-dimensional environment sensitizes pancreatic cancer cells to the anti-proliferative effect of budesonide by reprogramming energy metabolism. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2024; 43:165. [PMID: 38877560 PMCID: PMC11177459 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-024-03072-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the most lethal cancer with an aggressive metastatic phenotype and very poor clinical prognosis. Interestingly, a lower occurrence of PDAC has been described in individuals with severe and long-standing asthma. Here we explored the potential link between PDAC and the glucocorticoid (GC) budesonide, a first-line therapy to treat asthma. METHODS We tested the effect of budesonide and the classical GCs on the morphology, proliferation, migration and invasiveness of patient-derived PDAC cells and pancreatic cancer cell lines, using 2D and 3D cultures in vitro. Furthermore, a xenograft model was used to investigate the effect of budesonide on PDAC tumor growth in vivo. Finally, we combined genome-wide transcriptome analysis with genetic and pharmacological approaches to explore the mechanisms underlying budesonide activities in the different environmental conditions. RESULTS We found that in 2D culture settings, high micromolar concentrations of budesonide reduced the mesenchymal invasive/migrating features of PDAC cells, without affecting proliferation or survival. This activity was specific and independent of the Glucocorticoid Receptor (GR). Conversely, in a more physiological 3D environment, low nanomolar concentrations of budesonide strongly reduced PDAC cell proliferation in a GR-dependent manner. Accordingly, we found that budesonide reduced PDAC tumor growth in vivo. Mechanistically, we demonstrated that the 3D environment drives the cells towards a general metabolic reprogramming involving protein, lipid, and energy metabolism (e.g., increased glycolysis dependency). This metabolic change sensitizes PDAC cells to the anti-proliferative effect of budesonide, which instead induces opposite changes (e.g., increased mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation). Finally, we provide evidence that budesonide inhibits PDAC growth, at least in part, through the tumor suppressor CDKN1C/p57Kip2. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, our study reveals that the microenvironment influences the susceptibility of PDAC cells to GCs and provides unprecedented evidence for the anti-proliferative activity of budesonide on PDAC cells in 3D conditions, in vitro and in vivo. Our findings may explain, at least in part, the reason for the lower occurrence of pancreatic cancer in asthmatic patients and suggest a potential suitability of budesonide for clinical trials as a therapeutic approach to fight pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo Ibello
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics, 'A. Buzzati-Traverso', CNR, Naples, Italy
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Federica Saracino
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics, 'A. Buzzati-Traverso', CNR, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Silvia Buonaiuto
- Department of Genetics, Genomics and Informatics, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Filomena Amoroso
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics, 'A. Buzzati-Traverso', CNR, Naples, Italy
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Gennaro Andolfi
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics, 'A. Buzzati-Traverso', CNR, Naples, Italy
| | - Marco Corona
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics, 'A. Buzzati-Traverso', CNR, Naples, Italy
| | - Ombretta Guardiola
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics, 'A. Buzzati-Traverso', CNR, Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenza Colonna
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics, 'A. Buzzati-Traverso', CNR, Naples, Italy
- Department of Genetics, Genomics and Informatics, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Bruno Sainz
- Department of Cancer, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomedicas Sols-Morreale (IIBM), CSIC- UAM, Madrid, 28029, Spain
- Cancer, Area 3-Instituto Ramon Y Cajal de Investigacion Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Madrid, 28034, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red, Área Cáncer, CIBERONC, ISCIII, Madrid, 28029, Spain
| | - Lucia Altucci
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
- BIOGEM, Ariano Irpino, Ariano Irpino, AV, 83031, Italy
- IEOS-CNR, Naples, 80100, Italy
- Medical Epigenetics Program, AOU Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Dario De Cesare
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics, 'A. Buzzati-Traverso', CNR, Naples, Italy
| | - Gilda Cobellis
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Enza Lonardo
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics, 'A. Buzzati-Traverso', CNR, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Cristina D'Aniello
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics, 'A. Buzzati-Traverso', CNR, Naples, Italy.
| | - Gabriella Minchiotti
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics, 'A. Buzzati-Traverso', CNR, Naples, Italy.
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22
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Tang NN, Xu RB, Jiang B, Zhang HL, Wang XS, Chen DD, Zhu JJ. AHNAK2 Regulates NF-κB/MMP-9 Signaling to Promote Pancreatic Cancer Progression. Biochem Genet 2024:10.1007/s10528-024-10844-z. [PMID: 38864962 DOI: 10.1007/s10528-024-10844-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
Early metastasis of pancreatic cancer (PaC) is a major cause of its high mortality rate. Previous studies have shown that AHNAK2 is involved in the progression of some tumors and is predicted to be an independent prognostic factor for PaC; however, the specific mechanisms through which AHNAK2 regulates PaC remain unclear. In this study, we examined the role of AHNAK2 in PaC and its potential molecular mechanisms. AHNAK2 mRNA and protein expression in PaC tissues and cells were measured using qRT-PCR and western blot analysis. After AHNAK2 knockdown using small interfering RNA, PaC cells were subjected to CCK-8 scratch, and Transwell assays to assess cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, respectively. Furthermore, the validation of the mechanistic pathway was achieved by western blot analysis. AHNAK2 mRNA and protein levels were up-regulated in PaC and silencing AHNAK2 significantly inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion of PaC cells. Mechanistically, AHNAK2 knockdown decreased the expression of phosphorylated p65, phosphorylated IκBα, and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), suggesting that activation of the NF-κB/MMP-9 signaling pathway was inhibited. Importantly, activation of NF-κB reversed the effects of AHNAK2 knockdown. Our findings indicate that AHNAK2 promotes PaC progression through the NF-kB/MMP-9 pathway and provides a theoretical basis for targeting AHNAK2 for the treatment of PaC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na-Na Tang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Suqian First People's Hospital, Suqian, 223800, Jiangsu, China
| | - Rong-Bo Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Suqian First People's Hospital, Suqian, 223800, Jiangsu, China
| | - Bo Jiang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Suqian First People's Hospital, Suqian, 223800, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hai-Ling Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Suqian First People's Hospital, Suqian, 223800, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiao-Song Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Suqian First People's Hospital, Suqian, 223800, Jiangsu, China
| | - Dan-Dan Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Suqian First People's Hospital, Suqian, 223800, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ji-Jun Zhu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Suqian First People's Hospital, Suqian, 223800, Jiangsu, China.
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23
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Wang X, Breuer J, Garbe S, Giordano F, Brossart P, Feldmann G, Bisht S. Triple Blockade of Oncogenic RAS Signaling Using KRAS and MEK Inhibitors in Combination with Irradiation in Pancreatic Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6249. [PMID: 38892436 PMCID: PMC11172716 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25116249] [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: 04/26/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the deadliest of human malignancies and carries an exceptionally poor prognosis. It is mostly driven by multiple oncogenic alterations, with the highest mutation frequency being observed in the KRAS gene, which is a key oncogenic driver of tumorogenesis and malignant progression in PDAC. However, KRAS remained undruggable for decades until the emergence of G12C mutation specific KRAS inhibitors. Despite this development, this therapeutic approach to target KRAS directly is not routinely used for PDAC patients, with the reasons being the rare presence of G12C mutation in PDAC with only 1-2% of occurring cases, modest therapeutic efficacy, activation of compensatory pathways leading to cell resistance, and absence of effective KRASG12D or pan-KRAS inhibitors. Additionally, indirect approaches to targeting KRAS through upstream and downstream regulators or effectors were also found to be either ineffective or known to cause major toxicities. For this reason, new and more effective treatment strategies that combine different therapeutic modalities aiming at achieving synergism and minimizing intrinsic or adaptive resistance mechanisms are required. In the current work presented here, pancreatic cancer cell lines with oncogenic KRAS G12C, G12D, or wild-type KRAS were treated with specific KRAS or SOS1/2 inhibitors, and therapeutic synergisms with concomitant MEK inhibition and irradiation were systematically evaluated by means of cell viability, 2D-clonogenic, 3D-anchorage independent soft agar, and bioluminescent ATP assays. Underlying pathophysiological mechanisms were examined by using Western blot analyses, apoptosis assay, and RAS activation assay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Wang
- Department of Internal Medicine 3, Center of Integrated Oncology (CIO-ABCD) Aachen-Bonn-Cologne-Düsseldorf, University Hospital of Bonn, Venusberg Campus-1, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Johanna Breuer
- Institute of Molecular Medicine and Experimental Immunology, University Hospital of Bonn, Venusberg Campus-1, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Stephan Garbe
- Department of Radiology and Radiation Oncology, University Hospital of Bonn, Venusberg Campus-1, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Frank Giordano
- Department of Radiology and Radiation Oncology, University Hospital of Bonn, Venusberg Campus-1, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Peter Brossart
- Department of Internal Medicine 3, Center of Integrated Oncology (CIO-ABCD) Aachen-Bonn-Cologne-Düsseldorf, University Hospital of Bonn, Venusberg Campus-1, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Georg Feldmann
- Department of Internal Medicine 3, Center of Integrated Oncology (CIO-ABCD) Aachen-Bonn-Cologne-Düsseldorf, University Hospital of Bonn, Venusberg Campus-1, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Savita Bisht
- Department of Internal Medicine 3, Center of Integrated Oncology (CIO-ABCD) Aachen-Bonn-Cologne-Düsseldorf, University Hospital of Bonn, Venusberg Campus-1, 53127 Bonn, Germany
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24
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Bano S, Alburquerque JQ, Roberts HJ, Pang S, Huang HC, Hasan T. Minocycline and photodynamic priming significantly improve chemotherapy efficacy in heterotypic spheroids of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. JOURNAL OF PHOTOCHEMISTRY AND PHOTOBIOLOGY. B, BIOLOGY 2024; 255:112910. [PMID: 38663337 PMCID: PMC11088523 DOI: 10.1016/j.jphotobiol.2024.112910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
The prognosis for patients with advanced-stage pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains dismal. It is generally accepted that combination cancer therapies offer the most promise, such as Folforinox, despite their associated high toxicity. This study addresses the issue of chemoresistance by introducing a complementary dual priming approach to attenuate the DNA repair mechanism and to improve the efficacy of a type 1 topoisomerase (Top1) inhibitor. The result is a regimen that integrates drug-repurposing and nanotechnology using 3 clinically relevant FDA-approved agents (1) Top1 inhibitor (irinotecan) at subcytotoxic doses (2) benzoporphyrin derivative (BPD) as a photoactive molecule for photodynamic priming (PDP) to improve the delivery of irinotecan within the cancer cell and (3) minocycline priming (MNP) to modulate DNA repair enzyme Tdp1 (tyrosyl-DNA phosphodiesterase) activity. We demonstrate in heterotypic 3D cancer models that incorporate cancer cells and pancreatic cancer-associated fibroblasts that simultaneous targeting of Tdp1 and Top1 were significantly more effective by employing MNP and photoactivatable multi-inhibitor liposomes encapsulating BPD and irinotecan compared to monotherapies or a cocktail of dual or triple-agents. These data are encouraging and warrant further work in appropriate animal models to evolve improved therapeutic regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shazia Bano
- Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, MA, USA
| | - Jose Quilez Alburquerque
- Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, MA, USA
| | - Harrison James Roberts
- Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, MA, USA
| | - Sumiao Pang
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Huang-Chiao Huang
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Tayyaba Hasan
- Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, MA, USA; Division of Health Sciences and Technology, Harvard University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, MA, USA.
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25
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Qiao S, Wu F, Wang H. Genetic and immune identification and functional analysis of TRPM8 as a potential biomarker for pancreatic adenocarcinoma proliferation. Cancer Rep (Hoboken) 2024; 7:e2108. [PMID: 38837874 PMCID: PMC11150080 DOI: 10.1002/cnr2.2108] [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: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD), a member of highly lethal malignant tumors, has a poor outcome and extremely poor prognosis. The transient receptor potential (TRP) superfamily, a group of nonselective cation channels, is capable of influencing cellular functions by regulating calcium homeostasis. In addition, it has been shown that TRP channels can also affect various cellular phenotypes by regulating gene transcription levels and are involved in the development of a variety of malignant tumors. AIMS In order to find new therapeutic targets and biomarkers to improve the clinical prognosis of pancreatic cancer, we performed genetic and immunological characterization of TRP channels in PAAD, as well as related functional and prognostic analyses. METHODS AND RESULTS We investigated the expression, genetic alterations, methylation levels, and immune infiltration levels of TRP channels in PAAD, and further also analyzed the function of TRP channels in PAAD and their prognostic value for PAAD patients. Our results suggest that TRPM8 may contribute to tumor proliferation by controlling the PI3K-AKT-mTOR signaling pathway in PAAD. CONCLUSION After careful evaluation of the accumulated data, we concluded that TRPM8 has potential as a prognostic indicator and prospective therapeutic target in PAAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sen Qiao
- Assisted Reproduction CenterNorthwest Women's and Children's HospitalXi'anChina
| | - Fengming Wu
- School of MedicineSoutheast UniversityNanjingJiangsuChina
| | - Hongmei Wang
- School of MedicineSoutheast UniversityNanjingJiangsuChina
- Shaanxi University of Chinese MedicineXianyangChina
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26
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Zhang Z, Wang T, Xu M, Zhang Z, Wang H, Xue J, Wang W. Deciphering the pancreatic cancer microbiome in Mainland China: Impact of Exiguobacterium/Bacillus ratio on tumor progression and prognostic significance. Pharmacol Res 2024; 204:107197. [PMID: 38692467 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107197] [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: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
The existing body of research underscores the critical impact of intratumoral microbiomes on the progression of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), particularly in reshaping the tumor microenvironment and influencing gemcitabine resistance. However, peritumoral tissues' microbiome, distinct from PDAC tumors, remain understudied, and Western-centric analyses overlooking potential variations in dietary-influenced microbiomes. Our study addresses this gap by 16 S rRNA sequencing of PDAC tumors and matched peritumoral tissues from Chinese Mainland patients. Our research has uncovered that the microbiome composition within tumors and paired peritumoral tissues exhibits a high degree of similarity, albeit with certain discrepancies. Notably, Exiguobacterium is found to be more abundant within the tumor tissues. Further investigations have revealed that a lower Exiguobacterium/Bacillus ratio in both the tumor and peritumoral tissues of PDAC patients is indicative of a more favorable prognosis. Further exploration utilizing an orthotopic tumor model demonstrates that the probiotic Bacillus Coagulans impedes PDAC progression, accompanied by an increased infiltration of inflammatory neutrophils in tumors. Additionally, in the subgroup with a low Exiguobacterium/Bacillus ratio, whole-exome sequencing reveals elevated missense mutations in ABL2 and MSH2. The elevated expression of ABL2 and MSH2 has been correlated with poorer prognostic outcomes in PDAC patients. Together, these insights shed light on risk factors influencing PDAC progression and unveil potential therapeutic targets, alongside probiotic intervention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengyan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ting Wang
- Department of Pathology, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ming Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Hongkou District Jiangwan Hospital, China
| | - Zhihan Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Huaizhi Wang
- Institute of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, Chongqing General Hospital, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China.
| | - Jing Xue
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
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Wattenberg MM, Colby S, Garrido-Laguna I, Xue Y, Chang R, Delman D, Lee J, Affolter K, Mulvihill SJ, Beg MS, Wang-Gillam A, Wade JL, Guthrie KA, Chiorean EG, Ahmad SA, Lowy AM, Philip PA, Sohal DPS, Beatty GL. Intratumoral Cell Neighborhoods Coordinate Outcomes in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma. Gastroenterology 2024; 166:1114-1129. [PMID: 38244727 PMCID: PMC11102852 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2024.01.013] [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: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) is a highly lethal disease characterized by a spatially heterogeneous tumor microenvironment. Within the PDA microenvironment, cells organize into communities where cell fate is influenced by neighboring cells of diverse ontogeny and function. However, it remains unclear how cell neighborhoods in the tumor microenvironment evolve with treatment and impact clinical outcomes. METHODS Here, using automated chromogenic multiplex immunohistochemistry and unsupervised computational image analysis of human PDA tumors, we investigated cell neighborhoods in surgically resected tumors from patients with chemotherapy-naïve PDA (n = 59) and neoadjuvant chemotherapy-treated PDA (n = 57). Single cells were defined by lineage markers (CD3, CD8, Foxp3, CD68, CK19), proliferation (Ki67), and neighboring cells. RESULTS Distinct intratumoral immune and tumor cell subsets were defined by neighboring cells. Higher content of stromal-associated macrophages was seen in chemotherapy-naïve tumors from long-term survivors (overall survival >3 years) compared with short-term survivors (overall survival <1 year), whereas immune-excluded tumor cells were higher in short-term survivors. Chemotherapy-treated vs -naïve tumors showed lower content of tumor-associated T cells and macrophages but similar densities of stromal-associated immune cells. However, proliferating tumor cell subsets with immune-rich neighborhoods were higher in chemotherapy-treated tumors. In a blinded analysis of tumors from patients treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy, a composite index comprising lower quantities of immune-excluded tumor cells and higher spatially distinct immune cell subsets was associated with prolonged survival. CONCLUSIONS Together, these data provide new insights into discrete cell communities in PDA and show their clinical relevance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max M Wattenberg
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Abramson Cancer Center, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Sarah Colby
- SWOG Statistics and Data Management Center, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, Washington
| | - Ignacio Garrido-Laguna
- Division of Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Yuqing Xue
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Abramson Cancer Center, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Renee Chang
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Abramson Cancer Center, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Devora Delman
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Abramson Cancer Center, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Jesse Lee
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Abramson Cancer Center, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Kajsa Affolter
- Department of Pathology, University of Utah School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Sean J Mulvihill
- Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | | | | | | | - Katherine A Guthrie
- SWOG Statistics and Data Management Center, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, Washington
| | - E Gabriela Chiorean
- University of Washington, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, Washington
| | | | - Andrew M Lowy
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, UC San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Philip Agop Philip
- Henry Ford Health, Wayne State University, Oncology and Pharmacology, Detroit, Michigan
| | | | - Gregory L Beatty
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Abramson Cancer Center, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
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Curvello R, Berndt N, Hauser S, Loessner D. Recreating metabolic interactions of the tumour microenvironment. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2024; 35:518-532. [PMID: 38212233 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2023.12.005] [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: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
Tumours are heterogeneous tissues containing diverse populations of cells and an abundant extracellular matrix (ECM). This tumour microenvironment prompts cancer cells to adapt their metabolism to survive and grow. Besides epigenetic factors, the metabolism of cancer cells is shaped by crosstalk with stromal cells and extracellular components. To date, most experimental models neglect the complexity of the tumour microenvironment and its relevance in regulating the dynamics of the metabolism in cancer. We discuss emerging strategies to model cellular and extracellular aspects of cancer metabolism. We highlight cancer models based on bioengineering, animal, and mathematical approaches to recreate cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions and patient-specific metabolism. Combining these approaches will improve our understanding of cancer metabolism and support the development of metabolism-targeting therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo Curvello
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nikolaus Berndt
- Department of Molecular Toxicology, German Institute of Human Nutrition Potsdam-Rehbruecke (DIfE), Nuthetal, Germany; Institute of Computer-assisted Cardiovascular Medicine, Deutsches Herzzentrum der Charité, Berlin, Germany; Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sandra Hauser
- Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research, Department of Radiopharmaceutical and Chemical Biology, Dresden, Germany
| | - Daniela Loessner
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research Dresden e.V., Max Bergmann Center of Biomaterials, Dresden, Germany; Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Science, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
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29
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Rehman OU, Fatima E, Nadeem ZA, Azeem A, Motwani J, Imran H, Mehboob H, Khan A, Usman O. Efficacy of Cisplatin-Containing Chemotherapy Regimens in Patients of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. J Gastrointest Cancer 2024; 55:559-571. [PMID: 38315331 DOI: 10.1007/s12029-024-01025-7] [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] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The relative success of cisplatin-based chemotherapy regimens for PDAC in clinical trials warrants a review of the literature to assess the cumulative results. This study aims to assess the efficacy of cisplatin-containing regimens for PDAC in terms of survival and response outcomes using a systematic review and proportional meta-analysis. METHODS In this study, an electronic search was conducted on PubMed, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Google Scholar to find relevant literature. The random effects model was used to assess pooled overall response rate, stable disease rate, progressive disease rate, 1-year overall survival rate, and their 95% CIs. Publication bias was assessed using funnel plot symmetry and the one-tailed Eggers' test. In all cases, p-value < 0.05 was indicative of significant results. The review is registered with PROSPERO: CRD42023459243. RESULTS A total of 34 studies consisting of 1599 patients were included in this review. All the included studies were of good quality. In total, 906 patients were male, and the median age of the patients was 58-69 years. Overall, 599 patients had cancer of the pancreatic head, 139 had cancer of the pancreatic body, and 102 patients had cancer of the pancreatic tail. The pooled risk ratios (RRs) revealed an overall response rate of 19.2% (95% CI, 14.6-24.2%), a stable disease rate of 42.3% (95% CI, 36.6-48.8), a 1-year overall survival rate of 40% (95% CI, 34.3-45.8), and progressive disease rate of 24.7% (95% CI, 18.8-31.2). Commonly reported adverse events were anemia, thrombocytopenia, abdominal adverse events, neutropenia, fatigue, leukopenia, alopecia, anorexia, mucositis, stomatitis, and hepatobiliary adverse events. CONCLUSION Cisplatin-containing regimens have shown moderate efficacy with significant improvement in overall survival at 1 year, stable disease rate, and progressive disease rate; however, only a small percentage of patients achieved an overall response rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Obaid Ur Rehman
- Department of Medicine, Services Institute of Medical Sciences, Lahore, 54000, Pakistan.
| | - Eeshal Fatima
- Department of Medicine, Services Institute of Medical Sciences, Lahore, 54000, Pakistan
| | - Zain Ali Nadeem
- Department of Medicine, Allama Iqbal Medical College, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Arish Azeem
- University of Warmia and Mazury, Olszytn, Poland
| | - Jatin Motwani
- Liaquat National Hospital and Medical College, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Habiba Imran
- Department of Medicine, Services Institute of Medical Sciences, Lahore, 54000, Pakistan
| | - Hadia Mehboob
- Department of Medicine, Services Institute of Medical Sciences, Lahore, 54000, Pakistan
| | - Alishba Khan
- Karachi Institute of Medical Sciences, CMH Malir, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Omer Usman
- Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso/Transmountain, El Paso, TX, USA
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Hasanzadeh A, Ebadati A, Saeedi S, Kamali B, Noori H, Jamei B, Hamblin MR, Liu Y, Karimi M. Nucleic acid-responsive smart systems for controlled cargo delivery. Biotechnol Adv 2024; 74:108393. [PMID: 38825215 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2024.108393] [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: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
Stimulus-responsive delivery systems allow controlled, highly regulated, and efficient delivery of various cargos while minimizing side effects. Owing to the unique properties of nucleic acids, including the ability to adopt complex structures by base pairing, their easy synthesis, high specificity, shape memory, and configurability, they have been employed in autonomous molecular motors, logic circuits, reconfigurable nanoplatforms, and catalytic amplifiers. Moreover, the development of nucleic acid (NA)-responsive intelligent delivery vehicles is a rapidly growing field. These vehicles have attracted much attention in recent years due to their programmable, controllable, and reversible properties. In this work, we review several types of NA-responsive controlled delivery vehicles based on locks and keys, including DNA/RNA-responsive, aptamer-responsive, and CRISPR-responsive, and summarize their advantages and limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akbar Hasanzadeh
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Medical Nanotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Arefeh Ebadati
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Medical Nanotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Merced, Merced, USA
| | - Sara Saeedi
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Neuroscience Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Babak Kamali
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Medical Nanotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamid Noori
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Medical Nanotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Behnam Jamei
- Neuroscience Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Michael R Hamblin
- Laser Research Centre, Faculty of Health Science, University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein 2028, South Africa
| | - Yong Liu
- Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wenzhou, China.
| | - Mahdi Karimi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Medical Nanotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1449614535, Iran; Research Center for Science and Technology in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Applied Biotechnology Research Centre, Tehran Medical Science, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
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31
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Chen C, Demirkhanyan L, Gondi CS. The Multifaceted Role of miR-21 in Pancreatic Cancers. Cells 2024; 13:948. [PMID: 38891080 PMCID: PMC11172074 DOI: 10.3390/cells13110948] [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: 05/07/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
With the lack of specific signs and symptoms, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is often diagnosed at late metastatic stages, resulting in poor survival outcomes. Among various biomarkers, microRNA-21 (miR-21), a small non-coding RNA, is highly expressed in PDAC. By inhibiting regulatory proteins at the 3' untranslated regions (UTR), miR-21 holds significant roles in PDAC cell proliferation, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, angiogenesis, as well as cancer invasion, metastasis, and resistance therapy. We conducted a systematic search across major databases for articles on miR-21 and pancreatic cancer mainly published within the last decade, focusing on their diagnostic, prognostic, therapeutic, and biological roles. This rigorous approach ensured a comprehensive review of miR-21's multifaceted role in pancreatic cancers. In this review, we explore the current understandings and future directions regarding the regulation, diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic potential of targeting miR-21 in PDAC. This exhaustive review discusses the involvement of miR-21 in proliferation, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), apoptosis modulation, angiogenesis, and its role in therapy resistance. Also discussed in the review is the interplay between various molecular pathways that contribute to tumor progression, with specific reference to pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clare Chen
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Illinois College of Medicine Peoria, Peoria, IL 61605, USA
| | - Lusine Demirkhanyan
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Illinois College of Medicine Peoria, Peoria, IL 61605, USA
- Departments of Internal Medicine and Surgery, University of Illinois College of Medicine Peoria, Peoria, IL 61605, USA
| | - Christopher S. Gondi
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Illinois College of Medicine Peoria, Peoria, IL 61605, USA
- Departments of Internal Medicine and Surgery, University of Illinois College of Medicine Peoria, Peoria, IL 61605, USA
- Departments of Internal Medicine, Surgery, and Health Science Education and Pathology, University of Illinois College of Medicine Peoria, Peoria, IL 61605, USA
- Health Care Engineering Systems Center, The Grainger College of Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
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32
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Liu X, Huang Z, Chen Q, Chen K, Liu W, Liu G, Chu X, Li D, Ma Y, Tian X, Yang Y. Hypoxia-induced epigenetic regulation of miR-485-3p promotes stemness and chemoresistance in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma via SLC7A11-mediated ferroptosis. Cell Death Discov 2024; 10:262. [PMID: 38811540 PMCID: PMC11137092 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-024-02035-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2024] [Revised: 05/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
The mechanism of hypoxia in chemoresistance of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains elusive. In this study, we revealed the essential role of miR-485-3p in PDAC, particularly its impact on cancer stemness and gemcitabine resistance under hypoxic conditions. We found substantial downregulation of miR-485-3p in PDAC tissues, with lower expression correlating to poor patient outcomes. Mechanistically, miR-485-3p influenced stemness characteristics, as evidenced by reduced tumor-sphere formation and increased sensitivity to gemcitabine upon overexpression. Moreover, we identified SOX9 and SLC7A11 as two targets of miR-485-3p, which play a vital role in stemness and ferroptosis. Under the hypoxic condition, DNMT3B expression was upregulated, leading to hypermethylation of the miR-485-3p promoter region. The reduced miR-485-3p expression promoted stemness and chemoresistance of PDAC. In conclusion, our findings elucidate the intricate interplay of hypoxia, epigenetic modifications, and ferroptosis in PDAC and shed light on potential avenues for targeted interventions that modulate cancer stemness and chemosensitivity, offering prospects for improved therapeutic strategies for PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinxin Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Zhihua Huang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Qiuzheng Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Kai Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Weikang Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Guangnian Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Xiangyu Chu
- Department of General Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Dongqi Li
- Department of General Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Yongsu Ma
- Department of General Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China
| | - Xiaodong Tian
- Department of General Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China.
| | - Yinmo Yang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, 100034, China.
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33
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Kato H, Bardeesy N. Illuminating the path to pancreatic cancer. Cell Res 2024:10.1038/s41422-024-00982-9. [PMID: 38802576 DOI: 10.1038/s41422-024-00982-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Hiroyuki Kato
- Krantz Family Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Nabeel Bardeesy
- Krantz Family Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA.
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34
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Hebert JD, Xu H, Tang YJ, Ruiz PA, Detrick CR, Wang J, Hughes NW, Donosa O, Andrejka L, Karmakar S, Aboiralor I, Tang R, Sage J, Cong L, Petrov DA, Winslow MM. Efficient and multiplexed somatic genome editing with Cas12a mice. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.07.583774. [PMID: 38496463 PMCID: PMC10942438 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.07.583774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Somatic genome editing in mouse models has increased our understanding of the in vivo effects of genetic alterations in areas ranging from neuroscience to cancer biology and beyond. However, existing models are limited in their ability to create multiple targeted edits. Thus, our understanding of the complex genetic interactions that underlie development, homeostasis, and disease remains incomplete. Cas12a is an RNA-guided endonuclease with unique attributes that enable simple targeting of multiple genes with crRNA arrays containing tandem guides. To accelerate and expand the generation of complex genotypes in somatic cells, we generated transgenic mice with Cre-regulated and constitutive expression of enhanced Acidaminococcus sp. Cas12a (enAsCas12a). In these mice, enAsCas12a-mediated somatic genome editing robustly generated compound genotypes, as exemplified by the initiation of diverse cancer types driven by homozygous inactivation of trios of tumor suppressor genes. We further integrated these modular crRNA arrays with clonal barcoding to quantify the size and number of tumors with each array, as well as the efficiency of each crRNA. These Cas12a alleles will enable the rapid generation of disease models and broadly facilitate the high-throughput investigation of coincident genomic alterations in somatic cells in vivo .
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Hollander EE, Flock RE, McDevitt JC, Vostrejs WP, Campbell SL, Orlen MI, Kemp SB, Kahn BM, Wellen KE, Kim IK, Stanger BZ. N-glycosylation by Mgat5 imposes a targetable constraint on immune-mediated tumor clearance. JCI Insight 2024; 9:e178804. [PMID: 38912584 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.178804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The regulated glycosylation of the proteome has widespread effects on biological processes that cancer cells can exploit. Expression of N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase V (encoded by Mgat5 or GnT-V), which catalyzes the addition of β1,6-linked N-acetylglucosamine to form complex N-glycans, has been linked to tumor growth and metastasis across tumor types. Using a panel of murine pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) clonal cell lines that recapitulate the immune heterogeneity of PDAC, we found that Mgat5 is required for tumor growth in vivo but not in vitro. Loss of Mgat5 results in tumor clearance that is dependent on T cells and dendritic cells, with NK cells playing an early role. Analysis of extrinsic cell death pathways revealed Mgat5-deficient cells have increased sensitivity to cell death mediated by the TNF superfamily, a property that was shared with other non-PDAC Mgat5-deficient cell lines. Finally, Mgat5 knockout in an immunotherapy-resistant PDAC line significantly decreased tumor growth and increased survival upon immune checkpoint blockade. These findings demonstrate a role for N-glycosylation in regulating the sensitivity of cancer cells to T cell killing through classical cell death pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin E Hollander
- Department of Medicine and
- Abramson Cancer Center and Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | - Jayne C McDevitt
- Department of Medicine and
- Abramson Cancer Center and Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - William P Vostrejs
- Department of Medicine and
- Abramson Cancer Center and Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Sydney L Campbell
- Department of Medicine and
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Margo I Orlen
- Department of Medicine and
- Abramson Cancer Center and Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Samantha B Kemp
- Department of Medicine and
- Abramson Cancer Center and Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Benjamin M Kahn
- Department of Medicine and
- Abramson Cancer Center and Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Kathryn E Wellen
- Department of Medicine and
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Il-Kyu Kim
- Department of Medicine and
- Abramson Cancer Center and Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Ben Z Stanger
- Department of Medicine and
- Abramson Cancer Center and Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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Yin N, Li X, Zhang X, Xue S, Cao Y, Niedermann G, Lu Y, Xue J. Development of pharmacological immunoregulatory anti-cancer therapeutics: current mechanistic studies and clinical opportunities. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:126. [PMID: 38773064 PMCID: PMC11109181 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01826-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: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy represented by anti-PD-(L)1 and anti-CTLA-4 inhibitors has revolutionized cancer treatment, but challenges related to resistance and toxicity still remain. Due to the advancement of immuno-oncology, an increasing number of novel immunoregulatory targets and mechanisms are being revealed, with relevant therapies promising to improve clinical immunotherapy in the foreseeable future. Therefore, comprehending the larger picture is important. In this review, we analyze and summarize the current landscape of preclinical and translational mechanistic research, drug development, and clinical trials that brought about next-generation pharmacological immunoregulatory anti-cancer agents and drug candidates beyond classical immune checkpoint inhibitors. Along with further clarification of cancer immunobiology and advances in antibody engineering, agents targeting additional inhibitory immune checkpoints, including LAG-3, TIM-3, TIGIT, CD47, and B7 family members are becoming an important part of cancer immunotherapy research and discovery, as are structurally and functionally optimized novel anti-PD-(L)1 and anti-CTLA-4 agents and agonists of co-stimulatory molecules of T cells. Exemplified by bispecific T cell engagers, newly emerging bi-specific and multi-specific antibodies targeting immunoregulatory molecules can provide considerable clinical benefits. Next-generation agents also include immune epigenetic drugs and cytokine-based therapeutics. Cell therapies, cancer vaccines, and oncolytic viruses are not covered in this review. This comprehensive review might aid in further development and the fastest possible clinical adoption of effective immuno-oncology modalities for the benefit of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nanhao Yin
- Division of Thoracic Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center & State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, and The National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Xintong Li
- Division of Thoracic Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center & State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, and The National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Xuanwei Zhang
- Division of Thoracic Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center & State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, and The National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Shaolong Xue
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 20, Section 3, South Renmin Road, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Yu Cao
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Laboratory of Emergency Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, PR China
- Institute of Disaster Medicine & Institute of Emergency Medicine, Sichuan University, No. 17, Gaopeng Avenue, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Gabriele Niedermann
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical Center-University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) Partner Site DKTK-Freiburg, Robert-Koch-Strasse 3, 79106, Freiburg, Germany.
| | - You Lu
- Division of Thoracic Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center & State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, and The National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, PR China.
- Laboratory of Clinical Cell Therapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 2222, Xinchuan Road, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, PR China.
| | - Jianxin Xue
- Division of Thoracic Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center & State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, and The National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 37, Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, PR China.
- Laboratory of Clinical Cell Therapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 2222, Xinchuan Road, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, PR China.
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Fu Y, Tao J, Gu Y, Liu Y, Qiu J, Su D, Wang R, Luo W, Liu T, Zhang F, Zhang T, Zhao Y. Multiomics integration reveals NETosis heterogeneity and TLR2 as a prognostic biomarker in pancreatic cancer. NPJ Precis Oncol 2024; 8:109. [PMID: 38769374 PMCID: PMC11106236 DOI: 10.1038/s41698-024-00586-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly malignant neoplasm characterized by a poor prognosis and limited therapeutic strategy. The PDAC tumor microenvironment presents a complex heterogeneity, where neutrophils emerge as the predominant constituents of the innate immune cell population. Leveraging the power of single-cell RNA-seq, spatial RNA-seq, and multi-omics approaches, we included both published datasets and our in-house patient cohorts, elucidating the inherent heterogeneity in the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) and revealed the correlation between NETs and immune suppression. Meanwhile, we constructed a multi-omics prognostic model that suggested the patients exhibiting downregulated expression of NETs may have an unfavorable outcome. We also confirmed TLR2 as a potent prognosis factor and patients with low TLR2 expression had more effective T cells and an overall survival extension for 6 months. Targeting TLR2 might be a promising strategy to reverse immunosuppression and control tumor progression for an improved prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Fu
- General Surgery Department, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
- 4 + 4 Medical Doctor Program, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Jinxin Tao
- General Surgery Department, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Yani Gu
- General Surgery Department, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
- State Key Laboratory of Common Mechanism Research for Major Diseases, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking, Union Medical College, Beijing, 100005, China
| | - Yueze Liu
- General Surgery Department, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Jiangdong Qiu
- General Surgery Department, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Dan Su
- General Surgery Department, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Ruobing Wang
- General Surgery Department, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Wenhao Luo
- General Surgery Department, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Tao Liu
- General Surgery Department, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Feifan Zhang
- Department of Computer Science, University College London, London, UK
| | - Taiping Zhang
- General Surgery Department, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China.
- Clinical Immunology Center, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China.
| | - Yupei Zhao
- General Surgery Department, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China.
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Vendramini-Costa DB, Francescone R, Franco-Barraza J, Luong T, Graves M, de Aquino AM, Steele N, Gardiner JC, Dos Santos SAA, Ogier C, Malloy E, Borghaei L, Martinez E, Zhigarev DI, Tan Y, Lee H, Zhou Y, Cai KQ, Klein-Szanto AJ, Wang H, Andrake M, Dunbrack RL, Campbell K, Cukierman E. Netrin G1 Ligand is a new stromal immunomodulator that promotes pancreatic cancer. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.15.594354. [PMID: 38798370 PMCID: PMC11118300 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.15.594354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Understanding pancreatic cancer biology is fundamental for identifying new targets and for developing more effective therapies. In particular, the contribution of the stromal microenvironment to pancreatic cancer tumorigenesis requires further exploration. Here, we report the stromal roles of the synaptic protein Netrin G1 Ligand (NGL-1) in pancreatic cancer, uncovering its pro-tumor functions in cancer-associated fibroblasts and in immune cells. We observed that the stromal expression of NGL-1 inversely correlated with patients' overall survival. Moreover, germline knockout (KO) mice for NGL-1 presented decreased tumor burden, with a microenvironment that is less supportive of tumor growth. Of note, tumors from NGL-1 KO mice produced less immunosuppressive cytokines and displayed an increased percentage of CD8 + T cells than those from control mice, while preserving the physical structure of the tumor microenvironment. These effects were shown to be mediated by NGL-1 in both immune cells and in the local stroma, in a TGF-β-dependent manner. While myeloid cells lacking NGL-1 decreased the production of immunosuppressive cytokines, NGL-1 KO T cells showed increased proliferation rates and overall polyfunctionality compared to control T cells. CAFs lacking NGL-1 were less immunosuppressive than controls, with overall decreased production of pro-tumor cytokines and compromised ability to inhibit CD8 + T cells activation. Mechanistically, these CAFs downregulated components of the TGF-β pathway, AP-1 and NFAT transcription factor families, resulting in a less tumor-supportive phenotype. Finally, targeting NGL-1 genetically or using a functionally antagonistic small peptide phenocopied the effects of chemotherapy, while modulating the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME), rather than eliminating it. We propose NGL-1 as a new local stroma and immunomodulatory molecule, with pro-tumor roles in pancreatic cancer. Statement of Significance Here we uncovered the pro-tumor roles of the synaptic protein NGL-1 in the tumor microenvironment of pancreatic cancer, defining a new target that simultaneously modulates tumor cell, fibroblast, and immune cell functions. This study reports a new pathway where NGL-1 controls TGF-β, AP-1 transcription factor members and NFAT1, modulating the immunosuppressive microenvironment in pancreatic cancer. Our findings highlight NGL-1 as a new stromal immunomodulator in pancreatic cancer.
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Malnassy G, Ziolkowski L, Macleod KF, Oakes SA. The Integrated Stress Response in Pancreatic Development, Tissue Homeostasis, and Cancer. Gastroenterology 2024:S0016-5085(24)04931-X. [PMID: 38768690 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2024.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Present in all eukaryotic cells, the integrated stress response (ISR) is a highly coordinated signaling network that controls cellular behavior, metabolism, and survival in response to diverse stresses. The ISR is initiated when any 1 of 3 stress-sensing kinases (protein kinase R-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase [PERK], general control non-derepressible 2 [GCN2], double-stranded RNA-dependent protein kinase [PKR], heme-regulated eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2α kinase [HRI]) becomes activated to phosphorylate the protein translation initiation factor eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2α (eIF2α), shifting gene expression toward a comprehensive rewiring of cellular machinery to promote adaptation. Although the ISR has been shown to play an important role in the homeostasis of multiple tissues, evidence suggests that it is particularly crucial for the development and ongoing health of the pancreas. Among the most synthetically dynamic tissues in the body, the exocrine and endocrine pancreas relies heavily on the ISR to rapidly adjust cell function to meet the metabolic demands of the organism. The hardwiring of the ISR into normal pancreatic functions and adaptation to stress may explain why it is a commonly used pro-oncogenic and therapy-resistance mechanism in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma and pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors. Here we review what is known about the key roles that the ISR plays in the development, homeostasis, and neoplasia of the pancreas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greg Malnassy
- Department of Pathology, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Leah Ziolkowski
- The Ben May Department for Cancer Research, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinoi; Committee on Molecular Metabolism and Nutrition, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Kay F Macleod
- The Ben May Department for Cancer Research, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinoi; Committee on Molecular Metabolism and Nutrition, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois; Committee on Cancer Biology, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois.
| | - Scott A Oakes
- Department of Pathology, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois; Committee on Molecular Metabolism and Nutrition, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois; Committee on Cancer Biology, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois.
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Huang S, Yang J, Xie T, Jiang Y, Hong Y, Liu X, He X, Buratto D, Zhang D, Zhou R, Liang T, Bai X. Inhibition of DEF-p65 Interactions as a Potential Avenue to Suppress Tumor Growth in Pancreatic Cancer. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024:e2401845. [PMID: 38757623 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202401845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
The limited success of current targeted therapies for pancreatic cancer underscores an urgent demand for novel treatment modalities. The challenge in mitigating this malignancy can be attributed to the digestive organ expansion factor (DEF), a pivotal yet underexplored factor in pancreatic tumorigenesis. The study uses a blend of in vitro and in vivo approaches, complemented by the theoretical analyses, to propose DEF as a promising anti-tumor target. Analysis of clinical samples reveals that high expression of DEF is correlated with diminished survival in pancreatic cancer patients. Crucially, the depletion of DEF significantly impedes tumor growth. The study further discovers that DEF binds to p65, shielding it from degradation mediated by the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway in cancer cells. Based on these findings and computational approaches, the study formulates a DEF-mimicking peptide, peptide-031, designed to disrupt the DEF-p65 interaction. The effectiveness of peptide-031 in inhibiting tumor proliferation has been demonstrated both in vitro and in vivo. This study unveils the oncogenic role of DEF while highlighting its prognostic value and therapeutic potential in pancreatic cancer. In addition, peptide-031 is a promising therapeutic agent with potent anti-tumor effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sicong Huang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310000, China
- Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310000, China
- Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310000, China
| | - Jiaqi Yang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310000, China
- Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310000, China
- Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310000, China
- Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou, 310000, China
| | - Teng Xie
- Institute of Quantitative Biology, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310000, China
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Study, Zhejiang University, Shanghai, 200000, China
| | - Yangwei Jiang
- Institute of Quantitative Biology, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310000, China
| | - Yifan Hong
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310000, China
- Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310000, China
- Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310000, China
| | - Xinyuan Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310000, China
- Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310000, China
- Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310000, China
| | - Xuyan He
- Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310000, China
| | - Damiano Buratto
- Institute of Quantitative Biology, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310000, China
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Study, Zhejiang University, Shanghai, 200000, China
| | - Dong Zhang
- Institute of Quantitative Biology, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310000, China
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Study, Zhejiang University, Shanghai, 200000, China
| | - Ruhong Zhou
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310000, China
- Institute of Quantitative Biology, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310000, China
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Study, Zhejiang University, Shanghai, 200000, China
- Department of Chemistry, Columbia University, New York, 10027, USA
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310000, China
| | - Tingbo Liang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310000, China
- Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310000, China
- Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310000, China
- Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou, 310000, China
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310000, China
| | - Xueli Bai
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310000, China
- Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310000, China
- Innovation Center for the Study of Pancreatic Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310000, China
- Zhejiang Clinical Research Center of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Diseases, Hangzhou, 310000, China
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310000, China
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Wang T, Zhang M, Gong X, Chen W, Peng Y, Liao C, Xu H, Li Q, Shen G, Ren H, Zhu Y, Zhang B, Mao J, Wei L, Chen Y, Yang X. Inhibition of Nogo-B reduces the progression of pancreatic cancer by regulation NF-κB/GLUT1 and SREBP1 pathways. iScience 2024; 27:109741. [PMID: 38706871 PMCID: PMC11068639 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109741] [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: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) is a lethal disease and associated with metabolism dysregulation. Nogo-B is related to multiple metabolic related diseases and types of cancers. However, the role of Nogo-B in PC remains unknown. In vitro, we showed that cell viability and migration was largely reduced in Nogo-B knockout or knockdown cells, while enhanced by Nogo-B overexpression. Consistently, orthotopic tumor and metastasis was reduced in global Nogo knockout mice. Furthermore, we indicated that glucose enhanced cell proliferation was associated to the elevation expression of Nogo-B and nuclear factor κB (NF-κB). While, NF-κB, glucose transporter type 1 (GLUT1) and sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1 (SREBP1) expression was reduced in Nogo-B deficiency cells. In addition, we showed that GLUT1 and SREBP1 was downstream target of NF-κB. Therefore, we demonstrated that Nogo deficiency inhibited PC progression is regulated by the NF-κB/GLUT1 and SREBP1 pathways, and suggested that Nogo-B may be a target for PC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianxiang Wang
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Regulation for Major Diseases of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Anhui Provincial International Science and Technology Cooperation Base for Major Metabolic Diseases and Nutritional Interventions, College of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230000, China
| | - Min Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Regulation for Major Diseases of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Anhui Provincial International Science and Technology Cooperation Base for Major Metabolic Diseases and Nutritional Interventions, College of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230000, China
| | - Xinyu Gong
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Regulation for Major Diseases of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Anhui Provincial International Science and Technology Cooperation Base for Major Metabolic Diseases and Nutritional Interventions, College of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230000, China
| | - Wanjing Chen
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230000, China
| | - Ying Peng
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Regulation for Major Diseases of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Anhui Provincial International Science and Technology Cooperation Base for Major Metabolic Diseases and Nutritional Interventions, College of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230000, China
| | - Chenzhong Liao
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Regulation for Major Diseases of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Anhui Provincial International Science and Technology Cooperation Base for Major Metabolic Diseases and Nutritional Interventions, College of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230000, China
| | - Hongmei Xu
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Regulation for Major Diseases of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Anhui Provincial International Science and Technology Cooperation Base for Major Metabolic Diseases and Nutritional Interventions, College of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230000, China
| | - Qingshan Li
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Regulation for Major Diseases of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Anhui Provincial International Science and Technology Cooperation Base for Major Metabolic Diseases and Nutritional Interventions, College of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230000, China
| | - Guodong Shen
- Department of Geriatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China, Gerontology Institute of Anhui Province, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230000, China
| | - Huirong Ren
- Department of Geriatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China, Gerontology Institute of Anhui Province, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230000, China
| | - Yaxin Zhu
- Institute for International Health Professions Education and Research, China Medical University, Shenyang 110000, China
| | - Baotong Zhang
- Department of Human Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Jiali Mao
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230000, China
| | - Lingling Wei
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Regulation for Major Diseases of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Anhui Provincial International Science and Technology Cooperation Base for Major Metabolic Diseases and Nutritional Interventions, College of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230000, China
| | - Yuanli Chen
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Regulation for Major Diseases of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Anhui Provincial International Science and Technology Cooperation Base for Major Metabolic Diseases and Nutritional Interventions, College of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230000, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Yang
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Regulation for Major Diseases of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Anhui Provincial International Science and Technology Cooperation Base for Major Metabolic Diseases and Nutritional Interventions, College of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230000, China
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Du Y, Yang Z, Shi H, Chen Z, Chen R, Zhou F, Peng X, Hong T, Jiang L. E3 ubiquitin ligase UBR5 promotes gemcitabine resistance in pancreatic cancer by inducing O-GlcNAcylation-mediated EMT via destabilization of OGA. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:340. [PMID: 38755129 PMCID: PMC11099055 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06729-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: 11/26/2023] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) is among the deadliest malignancies, with an extremely poor diagnosis and prognosis. Gemcitabine (GEM) remains the first-line drug for treating PC; however, only a small percentage of patients benefit from current immunotherapies or targeted therapies. Resistance to GEM is prevalent and affects long-term survival. We found that ubiquitin-protein ligase E3 module N-recognition 5 (UBR5) is a therapeutic target against GEM resistance. UBR5 was markedly upregulated in clinical GEM-resistant PC samples and GEM-resistant PC cells. UBR5 knockdown markedly increased GEM sensitivity in GEM-resistant PC cell lines. UBR5-mediated GEM resistance was accompanied by activation of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and could be mitigated by inhibiting EMT. Further analysis revealed that UBR5 promoted GEM resistance in PC cells by enhancing O-GlcNAcylation-mediated EMT. In addition, UBR5 knockdown resulted in increased O-GlcNAase (OGA) levels, an essential negatively regulated enzyme in the O-GlcNAcylation process. We identified a negative association between OGA and UBR5 levels, which further supported the hypothesis that O-GlcNAcylation-mediated GEM resistance induced by UBR5 is OGA-dependent in PC cells. Mechanistic studies revealed that UBR5 acts as an E3 ubiquitin ligase of OGA and regulates O-GlcNAcylation by binding and modulating OGA, facilitating its degradation and ubiquitination. Additionally, high-throughput compound library screening using three-dimensional protein structure analysis and drug screening identified a Food and Drug Administration drug, Y-39983 dihydrochloride, as a potent GEM sensitiser and UBR5 inhibitor. The combination of Y-39983 dihydrochloride and GEM attenuated tumour growth in a mouse xenograft tumour model. Collectively, these data demonstrated that UBR5 plays a pivotal role in the sensitisation of PC to GEM and provides a potential therapeutic strategy to overcome GEM resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunyan Du
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China
- Key Laboratory of Drug Targets and Drug Screening of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China
| | - Zhangjian Yang
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China
- Key Laboratory of Drug Targets and Drug Screening of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China
| | - Hao Shi
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China
- Key Laboratory of Drug Targets and Drug Screening of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China
| | - Zhihan Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China
- Key Laboratory of Drug Targets and Drug Screening of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China
| | - Rong Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China
- Key Laboratory of Drug Targets and Drug Screening of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China
| | - Fan Zhou
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China
| | - Xiaogang Peng
- Jiangxi Province Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330000, China
| | - Tao Hong
- Key Laboratory of Drug Targets and Drug Screening of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China.
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China.
| | - Liping Jiang
- School of Pharmacy, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China.
- Key Laboratory of Drug Targets and Drug Screening of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, China.
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Musiu C, Lupo F, Agostini A, Lionetto G, Bevere M, Paiella S, Carbone C, Corbo V, Ugel S, De Sanctis F. Cellular collusion: cracking the code of immunosuppression and chemo resistance in PDAC. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1341079. [PMID: 38817612 PMCID: PMC11137177 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1341079] [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: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite the efforts, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is still highly lethal. Therapeutic challenges reside in late diagnosis and establishment of peculiar tumor microenvironment (TME) supporting tumor outgrowth. This stromal landscape is highly heterogeneous between patients and even in the same patient. The organization of functional sub-TME with different cellular compositions provides evolutive advantages and sustains therapeutic resistance. Tumor progressively establishes a TME that can suit its own needs, including proliferation, stemness and invasion. Cancer-associated fibroblasts and immune cells, the main non-neoplastic cellular TME components, follow soluble factors-mediated neoplastic instructions and synergize to promote chemoresistance and immune surveillance destruction. Unveiling heterotypic stromal-neoplastic interactions is thus pivotal to breaking this synergism and promoting the reprogramming of the TME toward an anti-tumor milieu, improving thus the efficacy of conventional and immune-based therapies. We underscore recent advances in the characterization of immune and fibroblast stromal components supporting or dampening pancreatic cancer progression, as well as novel multi-omic technologies improving the current knowledge of PDAC biology. Finally, we put into context how the clinic will translate the acquired knowledge to design new-generation clinical trials with the final aim of improving the outcome of PDAC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Musiu
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Francesca Lupo
- Department of Engineering for Innovation Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Antonio Agostini
- Medical Oncology, Department of Translational Medicine, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
- Medical Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli Istituti di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Gabriella Lionetto
- General and Pancreatic Surgery Unit, Pancreas Institute, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Michele Bevere
- ARC-Net Research Centre, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Salvatore Paiella
- General and Pancreatic Surgery Unit, Pancreas Institute, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Carmine Carbone
- Medical Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli Istituti di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Corbo
- Department of Engineering for Innovation Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Stefano Ugel
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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44
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Linette GP, Bear AS, Carreno BM. Facts and Hopes in Immunotherapy Strategies Targeting Antigens Derived from KRAS Mutations. Clin Cancer Res 2024; 30:2017-2024. [PMID: 38266167 PMCID: PMC11094419 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-23-1212] [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: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
In this commentary, we advance the notion that mutant KRAS (mKRAS) is an ideal tumor neoantigen that is amenable for targeting by the adaptive immune system. Recent progress highlights key advances on various fronts that validate mKRAS as a molecular target and support further pursuit as an immunological target. Because mKRAS is an intracellular membrane localized protein and not normally expressed on the cell surface, we surmise that proteasome degradation will generate short peptides that bind to HLA class I (HLA-I) molecules in the endoplasmic reticulum for transport through the Golgi for display on the cell surface. T-cell receptors (TCR)αβ and antibodies have been isolated that specifically recognize mKRAS encoded epitope(s) or haptenated-mKRAS peptides in the context of HLA-I on tumor cells. Case reports using adoptive T-cell therapy provide proof of principle that KRAS G12D can be successfully targeted by the immune system in patients with cancer. Among the challenges facing investigators is the requirement of precision medicine to identify and match patients to available mKRAS peptide/HLA therapeutics and to increase the population coverage by targeting additional mKRAS epitopes. Ultimately, we envision mKRAS-directed immunotherapy as an effective treatment option for selected patients that will complement and perhaps synergize with small-molecule mKRAS inhibitors and targeted mKRAS degraders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerald P. Linette
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Adham S. Bear
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Beatriz M. Carreno
- Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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45
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Chen X, Huang H. Tumor cell-intrinsic epigenetic SETpoint of cancer-associated fibroblasts. Cancer Cell 2024; 42:744-746. [PMID: 38670089 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccell.2024.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) exhibit spatial and functional diversity. Here, Niu et al. unveil SETD2's function in lipid metabolism and CAF heterogeneity in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. SETD2 deficiency boosts oxidative phosphorylation activity, prompting lipid-laden CAF formation through BMP2 signaling, offering promising therapeutic avenues in personalized cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiongfeng Chen
- Department of Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Hamon Center for Therapeutic Oncology Research, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Huocong Huang
- Department of Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Department of Immunology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Hamon Center for Therapeutic Oncology Research, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA.
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46
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Wang W, Xiong H, Li L, Hu X, Zhuang W, Li J, Sun X, Yu Y, Yu Y, Guo Y, Wang Y, Wang R, Wang H, Li Q. Biological impact and therapeutic potential of a novel camptothecin derivative (FLQY2) in pancreatic cancer through inactivation of the PDK1/AKT/mTOR pathway. Bioorg Chem 2024; 148:107436. [PMID: 38735265 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2024.107436] [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: 03/24/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Camptothecin (CPT), a pentacyclic alkaloid with antitumor properties, is derived from the Camptotheca acuminata. Topotecan and irinotecan (CPT derivatives) were first approved by the Food and Drug Administration for cancer treatment over 25 years ago and remain key anticancer drugs today. However, their use is often limited by clinical toxicity. Despite extensive development efforts, many of these derivatives have not succeeded clinically, particularly in their effectiveness against pancreatic cancer which remains modest. AIM OF THE STUDY This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic activity of FLQY2, a CPT derivative synthesized in our laboratory, against pancreatic cancer, comparing its efficacy and mechanism of action with those of established clinical drugs. METHODS The cytotoxic effects of FLQY2 on cancer cells were assessed using an MTT assay. Patient-derived organoid (PDO) models were employed to compare the sensitivity of FLQY2 to existing clinical drugs across various cancers. The impact of FLQY2 on apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in Mia Paca-2 pancreatic cancer cells was examined through flow cytometry. Transcriptomic and proteomic analyses were conducted to explore the underlying mechanisms of FLQY2's antitumor activity. Western blotting was used to determine the levels of proteins regulated by FLQY2. Additionally, the antitumor efficacy of FLQY2 in vivo was evaluated in a pancreatic cancer xenograft model. RESULTS FLQY2 demonstrated (1) potent cytotoxicity; (2) superior tumor-suppressive activity in PDO models compared to current clinical drugs such as gemcitabine, 5-fluorouracil, cisplatin, paclitaxel, ivosidenib, infinitinib, and lenvatinib; (3) significantly greater tumor inhibition than paclitaxel liposomes in a pancreatic cancer xenograft model; (4) robust antitumor effects, closely associated with the inhibition of the TOP I and PDK1/AKT/mTOR signaling pathways. In vitro studies revealed that FLQY2 inhibited cell proliferation, colony formation, induced apoptosis, and caused cell cycle arrest at nanomolar concentrations. Furthermore, the combination of FLQY2 and gemcitabine exhibited significant inhibitory and synergistic effects. CONCLUSION The study confirmed the involvement of topoisomerase I and the PDK1/AKT/mTOR pathways in mediating the antitumor activity of FLQY2 in treating Mia Paca-2 pancreatic cancer. Therefore, FLQY2 has potential as a novel therapeutic option for patients with pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenchao Wang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, Key Laboratory of Marine Fishery Resources Exploitment, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Haonan Xiong
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, Key Laboratory of Marine Fishery Resources Exploitment, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Lei Li
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, Key Laboratory of Marine Fishery Resources Exploitment, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Xialin Hu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, Key Laboratory of Marine Fishery Resources Exploitment, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Wenya Zhuang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, Key Laboratory of Marine Fishery Resources Exploitment, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Jiangtao Li
- Zhejiang University, School Medicine, Affiliated Hospital 2, Department of Surgery, Hangzhou 310009, China
| | - Xuanrong Sun
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, Key Laboratory of Marine Fishery Resources Exploitment, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Yanlei Yu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, Key Laboratory of Marine Fishery Resources Exploitment, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Yuanquan Yu
- Zhejiang University, School Medicine, Affiliated Hospital 2, Department of Surgery, Hangzhou 310009, China
| | - Yinghao Guo
- Zhejiang University, School Medicine, Affiliated Hospital 2, Department of Surgery, Hangzhou 310009, China
| | - Yihang Wang
- Zhejiang University, School Medicine, Affiliated Hospital 2, Department of Surgery, Hangzhou 310009, China
| | - Ruojiong Wang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, Key Laboratory of Marine Fishery Resources Exploitment, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Hong Wang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, Key Laboratory of Marine Fishery Resources Exploitment, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - QingYong Li
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, Key Laboratory of Marine Fishery Resources Exploitment, Zhejiang Province, China.
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Li L, Zhang Z, Zhou L, Ge H, Zhao Y, Gong Y, Mao GJ, Liu H. NIR Fluorescent/Photoacoustic Bimodal Imaging of Ferroptosis in Pancreatic Cancer Using Biothiols-Activable Probes. Anal Chem 2024; 96:7248-7256. [PMID: 38655839 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.4c00922] [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: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Ferroptosis modulation is a powerful therapeutic option for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) with a low 5-year survival rate and lack of effective treatment methods. However, due to the dual role of ferroptosis in promoting and inhibiting pancreatic tumorigenesis, regulating the degree of ferroptosis is very important to obtain the best therapeutic effect of PDAC. Biothiols are suitable as biomarkers of imaging ferroptosis due to the dramatic decreases of biothiol levels in ferroptosis caused by the inhibited synthesis pathway of glutathione (GSH) and the depletion of biothiol by reactive oxygen species. Moreover, a very recent study reported that cysteine (Cys) depletion can lead to pancreatic tumor ferroptosis in mice and may be employed as an effective therapeutic strategy for PDAC. Therefore, visualization of biothiols in ferroptosis of PDAC will be helpful for regulating the degree of ferroptosis, understanding the mechanism of Cys depletion-induced pancreatic tumor ferroptosis, and further promoting the study and treatment of PDAC. Herein, two biothiol-activable near-infrared (NIR) fluorescent/photoacoustic bimodal imaging probes (HYD-BX and HYD-DX) for imaging of pancreatic tumor ferroptosis were reported. These two probes show excellent bimodal response performances for biothiols in solution, cells, and tumors. Subsequently, they have been employed successfully for real-time visualization of changes in concentration levels of biothiols during the ferroptosis process in PDAC cells and HepG2 cells. Most importantly, they have been further applied for bimodal imaging of ferroptosis in pancreatic cancer in mice, with satisfactory results. The development of these two probes provides new tools for monitoring changes in concentration levels of biothiols in ferroptosis and will have a positive impact on understanding the mechanism of Cys depletion-induced pancreatic tumor ferroptosis and further promoting the study and treatment of PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingyun Li
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Traditional Chinese Medicine Research, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan Normal University, Changsha 410081, P. R. China
| | - Zhipengjun Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Traditional Chinese Medicine Research, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan Normal University, Changsha 410081, P. R. China
| | - Lei Zhou
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University (Hunan Provincial People's Hospital), Hunan Normal University, Changsha 410005, P. R. China
| | - Haifeng Ge
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Traditional Chinese Medicine Research, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan Normal University, Changsha 410081, P. R. China
| | - Yixing Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Traditional Chinese Medicine Research, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan Normal University, Changsha 410081, P. R. China
| | - Yijun Gong
- Key Laboratory of Green Chemical Media and Reactions, Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Centre of Henan Province for Green Manufacturing of Fine Chemicals, Henan Key Laboratory of Organic Functional Molecule and Drug Innovation, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, Henan 453007, P. R. China
| | - Guo-Jiang Mao
- Key Laboratory of Green Chemical Media and Reactions, Ministry of Education, Collaborative Innovation Centre of Henan Province for Green Manufacturing of Fine Chemicals, Henan Key Laboratory of Organic Functional Molecule and Drug Innovation, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Henan Normal University, Xinxiang, Henan 453007, P. R. China
| | - Hongwen Liu
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Traditional Chinese Medicine Research, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan Normal University, Changsha 410081, P. R. China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University (Hunan Provincial People's Hospital), Hunan Normal University, Changsha 410005, P. R. China
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Li F, Si W, Xia L, Yin D, Wei T, Tao M, Cui X, Yang J, Hong T, Wei R. Positive feedback regulation between glycolysis and histone lactylation drives oncogenesis in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Mol Cancer 2024; 23:90. [PMID: 38711083 PMCID: PMC11071201 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-024-02008-9] [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: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Metabolic reprogramming and epigenetic alterations contribute to the aggressiveness of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Lactate-dependent histone modification is a new type of histone mark, which links glycolysis metabolite to the epigenetic process of lactylation. However, the role of histone lactylation in PDAC remains unclear. METHODS The level of histone lactylation in PDAC was identified by western blot and immunohistochemistry, and its relationship with the overall survival was evaluated using a Kaplan-Meier survival plot. The participation of histone lactylation in the growth and progression of PDAC was confirmed through inhibition of histone lactylation by glycolysis inhibitors or lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA) knockdown both in vitro and in vivo. The potential writers and erasers of histone lactylation in PDAC were identified by western blot and functional experiments. The potential target genes of H3K18 lactylation (H3K18la) were screened by CUT&Tag and RNA-seq analyses. The candidate target genes TTK protein kinase (TTK) and BUB1 mitotic checkpoint serine/threonine kinase B (BUB1B) were validated through ChIP-qPCR, RT-qPCR and western blot analyses. Next, the effects of these two genes in PDAC were confirmed by knockdown or overexpression. The interaction between TTK and LDHA was identified by Co-IP assay. RESULTS Histone lactylation, especially H3K18la level was elevated in PDAC, and the high level of H3K18la was associated with poor prognosis. The suppression of glycolytic activity by different kinds of inhibitors or LDHA knockdown contributed to the anti-tumor effects of PDAC in vitro and in vivo. E1A binding protein p300 (P300) and histone deacetylase 2 were the potential writer and eraser of histone lactylation in PDAC cells, respectively. H3K18la was enriched at the promoters and activated the transcription of mitotic checkpoint regulators TTK and BUB1B. Interestingly, TTK and BUB1B could elevate the expression of P300 which in turn increased glycolysis. Moreover, TTK phosphorylated LDHA at tyrosine 239 (Y239) and activated LDHA, and subsequently upregulated lactate and H3K18la levels. CONCLUSIONS The glycolysis-H3K18la-TTK/BUB1B positive feedback loop exacerbates dysfunction in PDAC. These findings delivered a new exploration and significant inter-relationship between lactate metabolic reprogramming and epigenetic regulation, which might pave the way toward novel lactylation treatment strategies in PDAC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Li
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, State Key Laboratory of Female Fertility Promotion, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Wenzhe Si
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Li Xia
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, State Key Laboratory of Female Fertility Promotion, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Deshan Yin
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, State Key Laboratory of Female Fertility Promotion, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Tianjiao Wei
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, State Key Laboratory of Female Fertility Promotion, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Ming Tao
- Department of General Surgery, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Xiaona Cui
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, State Key Laboratory of Female Fertility Promotion, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Jin Yang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, State Key Laboratory of Female Fertility Promotion, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Tianpei Hong
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, State Key Laboratory of Female Fertility Promotion, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China.
| | - Rui Wei
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, State Key Laboratory of Female Fertility Promotion, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China.
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Chen C, Jiang YP, You I, Gray NS, Lin RZ. Down-regulation of AKT proteins slows the growth of mutant-KRAS pancreatic tumors. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.03.592345. [PMID: 38746217 PMCID: PMC11092743 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.03.592345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Serine/threonine kinase AKT isoforms play a well-established role in cell metabolism and growth. Most pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC) harbors activation mutations of KRAS, which activates the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. However, AKT inhibitors are not effective in the treatment of pancreatic cancer. To better understand the role of AKT signaling in mutant-KRAS pancreatic tumors, this study utilizes proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) and CRISPR-Cas9-genome editing to investigate AKT proteins. PROTAC down-regulation of AKT proteins markedly slowed the growth of three pancreatic tumor cell lines harboring mutant KRAS. In contrast, inhibition of AKT kinase activity alone had very little effect on the growth of these cell lines. Concurrent genetic deletion of all AKT isoforms (AKT1, AKT2, and AKT3) in the KPC (KrasG12D; Trp53R172H; Pdx1-Cre) pancreatic cancer cell line also dramatically slowed its growth in vitro and when orthotopically implanted in syngeneic mice. Surprisingly, insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), but not epidermal growth factor (EGF), restored KPC cell growth in serum-deprived conditions and the IGF-1 growth stimulation effect was AKT dependent. RNA-seq analysis of AKT1/2/3-deficient KPC cells suggested that reduced cholesterol synthesis may be responsible for the decreased response to IGF-1 stimulation. These results indicate that the presence of all three AKT isoforms supports pancreatic tumor cell growth and pharmacological degradation of AKT proteins may be more effective than AKT catalytic inhibitors for treating pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuankai Chen
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
- Graduate Program in Genetics, Stony Brook University, New York, USA
| | - Ya-Ping Jiang
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
| | - Inchul You
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, ChEM-H, and Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, USA
| | - Nathanael S. Gray
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, ChEM-H, and Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, USA
| | - Richard Z. Lin
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
- Northport VA Medical Center, Northport, New York, USA
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50
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Kimmelman AC, Sherman MH. The Role of Stroma in Cancer Metabolism. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2024; 14:a041540. [PMID: 37696660 PMCID: PMC10925555 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a041540] [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] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
The altered metabolism of tumor cells is a well-known hallmark of cancer and is driven by multiple factors such as mutations in oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes, the origin of the tissue where the tumor arises, and the microenvironment of the tumor. These metabolic changes support the growth of cancer cells by providing energy and the necessary building blocks to sustain proliferation. Targeting these metabolic alterations therapeutically is a potential strategy to treat cancer, but it is challenging due to the metabolic plasticity of tumors. Cancer cells have developed ways to scavenge nutrients through autophagy and macropinocytosis and can also form metabolic networks with stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment. Understanding the role of the tumor microenvironment in tumor metabolism is crucial for effective therapeutic targeting. This review will discuss tumor metabolism and the contribution of the stroma in supporting tumor growth through metabolic interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alec C Kimmelman
- Perlmutter Cancer Center, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016, USA
- Department of Radiation Oncology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, New York 10016, USA
| | - Mara H Sherman
- Cancer Biology & Genetics Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10065, USA
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