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Hou AJ, Shih RM, Uy BR, Shafer A, Chang ZL, Comin-Anduix B, Guemes M, Galic Z, Phyu S, Okada H, Grausam KB, Breunig JJ, Brown CE, Nathanson DA, Prins RM, Chen YY. IL-13Rα2/TGF-β bispecific CAR-T cells counter TGF-β-mediated immune suppression and potentiate anti-tumor responses in glioblastoma. Neuro Oncol 2024; 26:1850-1866. [PMID: 38982561 PMCID: PMC11449012 DOI: 10.1093/neuonc/noae126] [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: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapies targeting glioblastoma (GBM)-associated antigens such as interleukin-13 receptor subunit alpha-2 (IL-13Rα2) have achieved limited clinical efficacy to date, in part due to an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) characterized by inhibitory molecules such as transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β). The aim of this study was to engineer more potent GBM-targeting CAR-T cells by countering TGF-β-mediated immune suppression in the TME. METHODS We engineered a single-chain, bispecific CAR targeting IL-13Rα2 and TGF-β, which programs tumor-specific T cells to convert TGF-β from an immunosuppressant to an immunostimulant. Bispecific IL-13Rα2/TGF-β CAR-T cells were evaluated for efficacy and safety against both patient-derived GBM xenografts and syngeneic models of murine glioma. RESULTS Treatment with IL-13Rα2/TGF-β CAR-T cells leads to greater T-cell infiltration and reduced suppressive myeloid cell presence in the tumor-bearing brain compared to treatment with conventional IL-13Rα2 CAR-T cells, resulting in improved survival in both patient-derived GBM xenografts and syngeneic models of murine glioma. CONCLUSIONS Our findings demonstrate that by reprogramming tumor-specific T-cell responses to TGF-β, bispecific IL-13Rα2/TGF-β CAR-T cells resist and remodel the immunosuppressive TME to drive potent anti-tumor responses in GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J Hou
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Ryan M Shih
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Benjamin R Uy
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Amanda Shafer
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - ZeNan L Chang
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Begonya Comin-Anduix
- Department of Surgery, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Miriam Guemes
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Zoran Galic
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Su Phyu
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Hideho Okada
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
- Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy Center at UCSF, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Katie B Grausam
- Board of Governor’s Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Joshua J Breunig
- Board of Governor’s Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Christine E Brown
- Department of Hematology & Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation, City of Hope National Medical Center and Beckman Research Institute, Duarte, California, USA
| | - David A Nathanson
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Robert M Prins
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Yvonne Y Chen
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy Center at UCLA, Los Angeles, California, USA
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Donnelly J, Kamber RA, Wisnovsky S, Roberts DS, Peltan EL, Bassik MC, Bertozzi CR. A Genome-Wide CRISPR Screen Identifies Sortilin as the Receptor Responsible for Galectin-1 Lysosomal Trafficking. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.03.574113. [PMID: 38260508 PMCID: PMC10802331 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.03.574113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Galectins are a family of mammalian glycan-binding proteins that have been implicated as regulators of myriad cellular processes including cell migration, apoptosis, and immune modulation. Several members of this family, such as galectin-1, exhibit both cell-surface and intracellular functions. Interestingly, galectin-1 can be found in the endomembrane system, nucleus, or cytosol, as well as on the cell surface. The mechanisms by which galectin-1 traffics between cellular compartments, including its unconventional secretion and internalization processes, are poorly understood. Here, we determined the pathways by which exogenous galectin-1 enters cells and explored its capacity as a delivery vehicle for protein and siRNA therapeutics. We used a galectin-1-toxin conjugate, modelled on antibody-drug conjugates, as a selection tool in a genome-wide CRISPR screen. We discovered that galectin-1 interacts with the endosome-lysosome trafficking receptor sortilin in a glycan-dependent manner, which regulates galectin-1 trafficking to the lysosome. Further, we show that this pathway can be exploited for delivery of a functional siRNA. This study sheds light on the mechanisms by which galectin-1 is internalized by cells and suggests a new strategy for intracellular drug delivery via galectin-1 conjugation.
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Finotto L, Cole B, Giese W, Baumann E, Claeys A, Vanmechelen M, Decraene B, Derweduwe M, Dubroja Lakic N, Shankar G, Nagathihalli Kantharaju M, Albrecht JP, Geudens I, Stanchi F, Ligon KL, Boeckx B, Lambrechts D, Harrington K, Van Den Bosch L, De Vleeschouwer S, De Smet F, Gerhardt H. Single-cell profiling and zebrafish avatars reveal LGALS1 as immunomodulating target in glioblastoma. EMBO Mol Med 2023; 15:e18144. [PMID: 37791581 PMCID: PMC10630887 DOI: 10.15252/emmm.202318144] [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: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) remains the most malignant primary brain tumor, with a median survival rarely exceeding 2 years. Tumor heterogeneity and an immunosuppressive microenvironment are key factors contributing to the poor response rates of current therapeutic approaches. GBM-associated macrophages (GAMs) often exhibit immunosuppressive features that promote tumor progression. However, their dynamic interactions with GBM tumor cells remain poorly understood. Here, we used patient-derived GBM stem cell cultures and combined single-cell RNA sequencing of GAM-GBM co-cultures and real-time in vivo monitoring of GAM-GBM interactions in orthotopic zebrafish xenograft models to provide insight into the cellular, molecular, and spatial heterogeneity. Our analyses revealed substantial heterogeneity across GBM patients in GBM-induced GAM polarization and the ability to attract and activate GAMs-features that correlated with patient survival. Differential gene expression analysis, immunohistochemistry on original tumor samples, and knock-out experiments in zebrafish subsequently identified LGALS1 as a primary regulator of immunosuppression. Overall, our work highlights that GAM-GBM interactions can be studied in a clinically relevant way using co-cultures and avatar models, while offering new opportunities to identify promising immune-modulating targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lise Finotto
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz AssociationBerlinGermany
- VIB ‐ KU Leuven Center for Cancer BiologyVIB ‐ KU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
- The Laboratory for Precision Cancer Medicine, Translational Cell and Tissue Research Unit, Department of Imaging & PathologyKU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
- KU Leuven Institute for Single Cell Omics (LISCO)KU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
| | - Basiel Cole
- The Laboratory for Precision Cancer Medicine, Translational Cell and Tissue Research Unit, Department of Imaging & PathologyKU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
- KU Leuven Institute for Single Cell Omics (LISCO)KU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
| | - Wolfgang Giese
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz AssociationBerlinGermany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site BerlinBerlinGermany
| | - Elisabeth Baumann
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz AssociationBerlinGermany
- Charité ‐ Universitätsmedizin BerlinBerlinGermany
| | - Annelies Claeys
- The Laboratory for Precision Cancer Medicine, Translational Cell and Tissue Research Unit, Department of Imaging & PathologyKU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
- KU Leuven Institute for Single Cell Omics (LISCO)KU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
| | - Maxime Vanmechelen
- The Laboratory for Precision Cancer Medicine, Translational Cell and Tissue Research Unit, Department of Imaging & PathologyKU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
- KU Leuven Institute for Single Cell Omics (LISCO)KU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
- Department of Medical OncologyUniversity Hospitals LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
| | - Brecht Decraene
- The Laboratory for Precision Cancer Medicine, Translational Cell and Tissue Research Unit, Department of Imaging & PathologyKU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
- KU Leuven Institute for Single Cell Omics (LISCO)KU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
- Laboratory of Experimental Neurosurgery and Neuroanatomy, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven & Leuven Brain Institute (LBI)KU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
- Department of NeurosurgeryUniversity Hospitals LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
| | - Marleen Derweduwe
- The Laboratory for Precision Cancer Medicine, Translational Cell and Tissue Research Unit, Department of Imaging & PathologyKU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
- KU Leuven Institute for Single Cell Omics (LISCO)KU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
| | - Nikolina Dubroja Lakic
- The Laboratory for Precision Cancer Medicine, Translational Cell and Tissue Research Unit, Department of Imaging & PathologyKU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
- KU Leuven Institute for Single Cell Omics (LISCO)KU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
| | - Gautam Shankar
- The Laboratory for Precision Cancer Medicine, Translational Cell and Tissue Research Unit, Department of Imaging & PathologyKU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
- KU Leuven Institute for Single Cell Omics (LISCO)KU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
| | - Madhu Nagathihalli Kantharaju
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz AssociationBerlinGermany
- Humboldt University of BerlinBerlinGermany
| | - Jan Philipp Albrecht
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz AssociationBerlinGermany
- Humboldt University of BerlinBerlinGermany
| | - Ilse Geudens
- VIB ‐ KU Leuven Center for Cancer BiologyVIB ‐ KU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
| | - Fabio Stanchi
- VIB ‐ KU Leuven Center for Cancer BiologyVIB ‐ KU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
| | - Keith L Ligon
- Center for Neuro‐oncologyDana‐Farber Cancer InstituteBostonMAUSA
- Department of PathologyBrigham and Women's HospitalBostonMAUSA
- Department of PathologyHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
| | - Bram Boeckx
- VIB ‐ KU Leuven Center for Cancer BiologyVIB ‐ KU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
- KU Leuven Institute for Single Cell Omics (LISCO)KU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
- Laboratory of Translational Genetics, Department of Human GeneticsKU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
| | - Diether Lambrechts
- VIB ‐ KU Leuven Center for Cancer BiologyVIB ‐ KU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
- KU Leuven Institute for Single Cell Omics (LISCO)KU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
- Laboratory of Translational Genetics, Department of Human GeneticsKU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
| | - Kyle Harrington
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz AssociationBerlinGermany
- Chan Zuckerberg InitiativeRedwood CityCAUSA
| | - Ludo Van Den Bosch
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Department of Neurosciences, Experimental Neurology & Leuven Brain Institute (LBI)KU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
- VIB ‐ KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, Laboratory of NeurobiologyVIB ‐ KU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
| | - Steven De Vleeschouwer
- KU Leuven Institute for Single Cell Omics (LISCO)KU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
- Laboratory of Experimental Neurosurgery and Neuroanatomy, Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven & Leuven Brain Institute (LBI)KU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
- Department of NeurosurgeryUniversity Hospitals LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
| | - Frederik De Smet
- The Laboratory for Precision Cancer Medicine, Translational Cell and Tissue Research Unit, Department of Imaging & PathologyKU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
- KU Leuven Institute for Single Cell Omics (LISCO)KU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
| | - Holger Gerhardt
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz AssociationBerlinGermany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site BerlinBerlinGermany
- Charité ‐ Universitätsmedizin BerlinBerlinGermany
- Berlin Institute of HealthBerlinGermany
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Myers BL, Brayer KJ, Paez-Beltran LE, Keith MS, Suzuki H, Newville J, Anderson RH, Lo Y, Mertz CM, Kollipara R, Borromeo MD, Bachoo RM, Johnson JE, Vue TY. Glioblastoma initiation, migration, and cell types are regulated by core bHLH transcription factors ASCL1 and OLIG2. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.09.30.560206. [PMID: 37873200 PMCID: PMC10592871 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.30.560206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
Glioblastomas (GBMs) are highly aggressive, infiltrative, and heterogeneous brain tumors driven by complex driver mutations and glioma stem cells (GSCs). The neurodevelopmental transcription factors ASCL1 and OLIG2 are co-expressed in GBMs, but their role in regulating the heterogeneity and hierarchy of GBM tumor cells is unclear. Here, we show that oncogenic driver mutations lead to dysregulation of ASCL1 and OLIG2, which function redundantly to initiate brain tumor formation in a mouse model of GBM. Subsequently, the dynamic levels and reciprocal binding of ASCL1 and OLIG2 to each other and to downstream target genes then determine the cell types and degree of migration of tumor cells. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) reveals that a high level of ASCL1 is key in defining GSCs by upregulating a collection of ribosomal protein, mitochondrial, neural stem cell (NSC), and cancer metastasis genes - all essential for sustaining the high proliferation, migration, and therapeutic resistance of GSCs.
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5
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Ji H, Wang F, Liu Z, Li Y, Sun H, Xiao A, Zhang H, You C, Hu S, Liu Y. COVPRIG robustly predicts the overall survival of IDH wild-type glioblastoma and highlights METTL1 + neural-progenitor-like tumor cell in driving unfavorable outcome. J Transl Med 2023; 21:533. [PMID: 37553713 PMCID: PMC10408096 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04382-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Accurately predicting the outcome of isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) wild-type glioblastoma (GBM) remains hitherto challenging. This study aims to Construct and Validate a Robust Prognostic Model for IDH wild-type GBM (COVPRIG) for the prediction of overall survival using a novel metric, gene-gene (G × G) interaction, and explore molecular and cellular underpinnings. METHODS Univariate and multivariate Cox regression of four independent trans-ethnic cohorts containing a total of 800 samples. Prediction efficacy was comprehensively evaluated and compared with previous models by a systematic literature review. The molecular underpinnings of COVPRIG were elucidated by integrated analysis of bulk-tumor and single-cell based datasets. RESULTS Using a Cox-ph model-based method, six of the 93,961 G × G interactions were screened to form an optimal combination which, together with age, comprised the COVPRIG model. COVPRIG was designed for RNA-seq and microarray, respectively, and effectively identified patients at high risk of mortality. The predictive performance of COVPRIG was satisfactory, with area under the curve (AUC) ranging from 0.56 (CGGA693, RNA-seq, 6-month survival) to 0.79 (TCGA RNAseq, 18-month survival), which can be further validated by decision curves. Nomograms were constructed for individual risk prediction for RNA-seq and microarray-based cohorts, respectively. Besides, the prognostic significance of COVPRIG was also validated in GBM including the IDH mutant samples. Notably, COVPRIG was comprehensively evaluated and externally validated, and a systemic review disclosed that COVPRIG outperformed current validated models with an integrated discrimination improvement (IDI) of 6-16%. Moreover, integrative bioinformatics analysis predicted an essential role of METTL1+ neural-progenitor-like (NPC-like) malignant cell in driving unfavorable outcome. CONCLUSION This study provided a powerful tool for the outcome prediction for IDH wild-type GBM, and preliminary molecular underpinnings for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hang Ji
- Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital Sichuan University, No. 37 Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Fang Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, No. 158 Shangtang Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zhihui Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, No. 158 Shangtang Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yue Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital Sichuan University, No. 37 Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Haogeng Sun
- Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital Sichuan University, No. 37 Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Anqi Xiao
- Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital Sichuan University, No. 37 Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Huanxin Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital Sichuan University, No. 37 Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Chao You
- Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital Sichuan University, No. 37 Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Shaoshan Hu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, No. 158 Shangtang Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Yi Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital Sichuan University, No. 37 Guoxue Lane, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.
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Zheng Y, Zhang H, Xiao C, Deng Z, Fan T, Zheng B, Li C, He J. KLF12 overcomes anti-PD-1 resistance by reducing galectin-1 in cancer cells. J Immunother Cancer 2023; 11:e007286. [PMID: 37586772 PMCID: PMC10432659 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2023-007286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUNDS Immune checkpoint blockade has revolutionized cancer treatment and has improved the survival of a subset of patients with cancer. However, numerous patients do not benefit from immunotherapy, and treatment resistance is a major challenge. Krüppel-like factor 12 (KLF12) is a transcriptional inhibitor whose role in tumor immunity is unclear. METHODS We demonstrated a relationship between KLF12 and CD8+ T cells in vivo and in vitro by flow cytometry. The role and underlying mechanism that KLF12 regulates CD8+ T cells were investigated using reverse transcription and quantitative PCR, western blot FACS, chromatin immunoprecipitation-PCR and Dual-Luciferase reporter assays, etc, and employing small interfering RNA (siRNA) and inhibitors. In vivo efficacy studies were conducted with multiple mouse tumor models, employing anti-programmed cell death protein 1 combined with KLF12 or galectin-1 (Gal-1) inhibitor. RESULTS Here, we found that the expression of tumor KLF12 correlates with immunotherapy resistance. KLF12 suppresses CD8+ T cells infiltration and function in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, KLF12 inhibits the expression of Gal-1 by binding with its promoter, thereby improving the infiltration and function of CD8+ T cells, which plays a vital role in cancer immunotherapy. CONCLUSIONS This work identifies a novel pathway regulating CD8+ T-cell intratumoral infiltration, and targeting the KLF12/Gal-1 axis may serve as a novel therapeutic target for patients with immunotherapy resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujia Zheng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Cancer Center, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Hao Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Chu Xiao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Ziqin Deng
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Tao Fan
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Bo Zheng
- Department of Pathology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Chunxiang Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jie He
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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Liu D, Zhu H, Li C. Galectins and galectin-mediated autophagy regulation: new insights into targeted cancer therapy. Biomark Res 2023; 11:22. [PMID: 36814341 PMCID: PMC9945697 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-023-00466-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Galectins are animal lectins with specific affinity for galactosides via the conserved carbohydrate recognition domains. Increasing studies recently have identified critical roles of galectin family members in tumor progression. Abnormal expression of galectins contributes to the proliferation, metastasis, epithelial-mesenchymal transformation (EMT), immunosuppression, radio-resistance and chemoresistance in various cancers, which has attracted cumulative clinical interest in galectin-based cancer treatment. Galectin family members have been reported to participate in autophagy regulation under physiological conditions and in non-tumoral diseases, and implication of galectins in multiple processes of carcinogenesis also involves regulation of autophagy, however, the relationship between galectins, autophagy and cancer remains largely unclear. In this review, we introduce the structure and function of galectins at the molecular level, summarize their engagements in autophagy and cancer progression, and also highlight the regulation of autophagy by galectins in cancer as well as the therapeutic potentials of galectin and autophagy-based strategies. Elaborating on the mechanism of galectin-regulated autophagy in cancers will accelerate the exploitation of galectins-autophagy targeted therapies in treatment for cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Liu
- grid.33199.310000 0004 0368 7223Department of Medical Genetics, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Hongtao Zhu
- grid.412793.a0000 0004 1799 5032Department of Neurosurgery, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chuanzhou Li
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Basic Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
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Cellular senescence in malignant cells promotes tumor progression in mouse and patient Glioblastoma. Nat Commun 2023; 14:441. [PMID: 36707509 PMCID: PMC9883514 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-36124-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common primary malignant brain tumor in adults, yet it remains refractory to systemic therapy. Elimination of senescent cells has emerged as a promising new treatment approach against cancer. Here, we investigated the contribution of senescent cells to GBM progression. Senescent cells are identified in patient and mouse GBMs. Partial removal of p16Ink4a-expressing malignant senescent cells, which make up less than 7 % of the tumor, modifies the tumor ecosystem and improves the survival of GBM-bearing female mice. By combining single cell and bulk RNA sequencing, immunohistochemistry and genetic knockdowns, we identify the NRF2 transcription factor as a determinant of the senescent phenotype. Remarkably, our mouse senescent transcriptional signature and underlying mechanisms of senescence are conserved in patient GBMs, in whom higher senescence scores correlate with shorter survival times. These findings suggest that senolytic drug therapy may be a beneficial adjuvant therapy for patients with GBM.
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HOXA5: A crucial transcriptional factor in cancer and a potential therapeutic target. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 155:113800. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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10
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A set of common buccal CpGs that predict epigenetic age and associate with lifespan-regulating genes. iScience 2022; 25:105304. [PMID: 36304118 PMCID: PMC9593711 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.105304] [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: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic aging clocks are computational models that use DNA methylation sites to predict age. Since cheek swabs are non-invasive and painless, collecting DNA from buccal tissue is highly desirable. Here, we review 11 existing clocks that have been applied to buccal tissue. Two of these were exclusively trained on adults and, while moderately accurate, have not been used to capture health-relevant differences in epigenetic age. Using 130 common CpGs utilized by two or more existing buccal clocks, we generate a proof-of-concept predictor in an adult methylomic dataset. In addition to accurately estimating age (r = 0.95 and mean absolute error = 3.88 years), this clock predicted that Down syndrome subjects were significantly older relative to controls. A literature and database review of CpG-associated genes identified numerous genes (e.g., CLOCK, ELOVL2, and VGF) and molecules (e.g., alpha-linolenic acid, glycine, and spermidine) reported to influence lifespan and/or age-related disease in model organisms. 130 CpGs have been used by two or more aging clocks applied to human buccal tissue Common CpG genes are linked to the adaptive immune system and telomere maintenance Common CpGs can be used to build a novel, proof-of-concept epigenetic aging clock Several compounds associated with common CpG genes regulate lifespan in animals
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11
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Sharanek A, Raco L, Soleimani VD, Jahani-Asl A. In situ detection of protein-protein interaction by proximity ligation assay in patient derived brain tumor stem cells. STAR Protoc 2022; 3:101554. [PMID: 35880130 PMCID: PMC9307678 DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2022.101554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Improper or aberrant protein-protein interactions can lead to severe human diseases including cancer. Here, we describe an adapted proximity ligation assay (PLA) protocol for the assessment of galectin-1-HOXA5 interaction in brain tumor stem cells (BTSCs). We detail the steps for culturing and preparation of BTSCs followed by PLA and detection of protein interactions in situ using fluorescent microscopy. This PLA protocol is optimized specifically for BTSCs and includes key controls for effective result analysis. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Sharanek et al. (2021). Proximity ligation assay to detect protein-protein interaction in BTSCs Optimized plating conditions for BTSC preparation using minute starting material Inclusion of appropriate controls for the PLA to ensure specificity and precision Alternative reagents and buffers to allow user to adapt the protocol to their needs
Publisher’s note: Undertaking any experimental protocol requires adherence to local institutional guidelines for laboratory safety and ethics.
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Guda MR, Tsung AJ, Asuthkar S, Velpula KK. Galectin-1 activates carbonic anhydrase IX and modulates glioma metabolism. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:574. [PMID: 35773253 PMCID: PMC9247167 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-05024-z] [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: 02/09/2022] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Galectins are a family of β-galactose-specific binding proteins residing within the cytosol or nucleus, with a highly conserved carbohydrate recognition domain across many species. Accumulating evidence shows that Galectin 1 (Gal-1) plays an essential role in cancer, and its expression correlates with tumor aggressiveness and progression. Our preliminary data showed Gal-1 promotes glioma stem cell (GSC) growth via increased Warburg effect. mRNA expression and clinical data were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas database. The immunoblot analysis conducted using our cohort of human glioblastoma patient specimens (hGBM), confirmed Gal-1 upregulation in GBM. GC/MS analysis to evaluate the effects of Gal-1 depletion showed elevated levels of α-ketoglutaric acid, and citric acid with a concomitant reduction in lactic acid levels. Using Biolog microplate-1 mitochondrial functional assay, we confirmed that the depletion of Gal-1 increases the expression levels of the enzymes from the TCA cycle, suggesting a reversal of the Warburg phenotype. Manipulation of Gal-1 using RNA interference showed reduced ATP, lactate levels, cell viability, colony-forming abilities, and increased expression levels of genes implicated in the induction of apoptosis. Gal-1 exerts its metabolic role via regulating the expression of carbonic anhydrase IX (CA-IX), a surrogate marker for hypoxia. CA-IX functions downstream to Gal-1, and co-immunoprecipitation experiments along with proximity ligation assays confirm that Gal-1 physically associates with CA-IX to regulate its expression. Further, silencing of Gal-1 in mice models showed reduced tumor burden and increased survival compared to the mice implanted with GSC controls. Further investigation of Gal-1 in GSC progression and metabolic reprogramming is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maheedhara R. Guda
- grid.430852.80000 0001 0741 4132Department of Cancer Biology and Pharmacology, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria, Peoria, IL USA
| | - Andrew J. Tsung
- grid.430852.80000 0001 0741 4132Department of Cancer Biology and Pharmacology, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria, Peoria, IL USA ,grid.430852.80000 0001 0741 4132Department of Neurosurgery, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria, Peoria, IL USA ,Illinois Neurological Institute, Peoria, IL USA
| | - Swapna Asuthkar
- grid.430852.80000 0001 0741 4132Department of Cancer Biology and Pharmacology, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria, Peoria, IL USA
| | - Kiran K. Velpula
- grid.430852.80000 0001 0741 4132Department of Cancer Biology and Pharmacology, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria, Peoria, IL USA ,grid.430852.80000 0001 0741 4132Department of Neurosurgery, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria, Peoria, IL USA ,grid.430852.80000 0001 0741 4132Department of Pediatrics, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria, Peoria, IL USA
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He ZC, Liu Q, Yang KD, Chen C, Zhang XN, Wang WY, Zeng H, Wang B, Liu YQ, Luo M, Li L, Niu Q, Lu HM, Luo T, Yao XH, Guo HT, Ji JL, Cao MF, Shi Y, Ping YF, Bian XW. HOXA5 is amplified in glioblastoma stem cells and promotes tumor progression by transcriptionally activating PTPRZ1. Cancer Lett 2022; 533:215605. [DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2022.215605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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Traditional therapies and their moderation. Cancer 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-323-91904-3.00015-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Ajarrag S, St-Pierre Y. Galectins in Glioma: Current Roles in Cancer Progression and Future Directions for Improving Treatment. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13215533. [PMID: 34771696 PMCID: PMC8582867 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13215533] [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: 10/03/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Glioblastomas are among the most common and aggressive brain tumors. The high rate of recurrence and mortality associated with this cancer underscores the need for the development of new therapeutical targets. Galectins are among the new targets that have attracted the attention of many scientists working in the field of cancer. They form a group of small proteins found in many tissues where they accomplish various physiological roles, including regulation of immune response and resistance to cell death. In many types of cancer, however, production of abnormally high levels of galectins by cancer cells can be detrimental to patients. Elevated levels of galectins can, for example, suppress the ability of the host’s immune system to kill cancer cells. They can also provide cancer cells with resistance to drugs-induced cell death. Here, we review the recent progress that has contributed to a better understanding of the mechanisms of actions of galectins in glioblastoma. We also discuss recent development of anti-galectin drugs and the challenges associated with their use in clinical settings, with particular attention to their role in reducing the efficacy of immunotherapy, a promising treatment that exploits the capacity of the immune system to recognize and kill cancer cells. Abstract Traditional wisdom suggests that galectins play pivotal roles at different steps in cancer progression. Galectins are particularly well known for their ability to increase the invasiveness of cancer cells and their resistance to drug-induced cell death. They also contribute to the development of local and systemic immunosuppression, allowing cancer cells to escape the host’s immunological defense. This is particularly true in glioma, the most common primary intracranial tumor. Abnormally high production of extracellular galectins in glioma contributes to the establishment of a strong immunosuppressive environment that favors immune escape and tumor progression. Considering the recent development and success of immunotherapy in halting cancer progression, it is logical to foresee that galectin-specific drugs may help to improve the success rate of immunotherapy for glioma. This provides a new perspective to target galectins, whose intracellular roles in cancer progression have already been investigated thoroughly. In this review, we discuss the mechanisms of action of galectins at different steps of glioma progression and the potential of galectin-specific drugs for the treatment of glioma.
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