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Zhou X, Wang G, Tian C, Du L, Prochownik EV, Li Y. Inhibition of DUSP18 impairs cholesterol biosynthesis and promotes anti-tumor immunity in colorectal cancer. Nat Commun 2024; 15:5851. [PMID: 38992029 PMCID: PMC11239938 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-50138-x] [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: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Tumor cells reprogram their metabolism to produce specialized metabolites that both fuel their own growth and license tumor immune evasion. However, the relationships between these functions remain poorly understood. Here, we report CRISPR screens in a mouse model of colo-rectal cancer (CRC) that implicates the dual specificity phosphatase 18 (DUSP18) in the establishment of tumor-directed immune evasion. Dusp18 inhibition reduces CRC growth rates, which correlate with high levels of CD8+ T cell activation. Mechanistically, DUSP18 dephosphorylates and stabilizes the USF1 bHLH-ZIP transcription factor. In turn, USF1 induces the SREBF2 gene, which allows cells to accumulate the cholesterol biosynthesis intermediate lanosterol and release it into the tumor microenvironment (TME). There, lanosterol uptake by CD8+ T cells suppresses the mevalonate pathway and reduces KRAS protein prenylation and function, which in turn inhibits their activation and establishes a molecular basis for tumor cell immune escape. Finally, the combination of an anti-PD-1 antibody and Lumacaftor, an FDA-approved small molecule inhibitor of DUSP18, inhibits CRC growth in mice and synergistically enhances anti-tumor immunity. Collectively, our findings support the idea that a combination of immune checkpoint and metabolic blockade represents a rationally-designed, mechanistically-based and potential therapy for CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojun Zhou
- Department of Colorectal and Anal Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430072, China
- Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China
| | - Genxin Wang
- Department of Colorectal and Anal Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430072, China
- Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China
| | - Chenhui Tian
- Department of Colorectal and Anal Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430072, China
- Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China
| | - Lin Du
- Department of Colorectal and Anal Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430072, China
- Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China
| | - Edward V Prochownik
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, Pittsburgh, PA, 15224, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics of UPMC, Pittsburgh, PA, 15224, USA
- The Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, The Hillman Cancer Institute of UPMC, Pittsburgh, PA, 15224, USA
| | - Youjun Li
- Department of Colorectal and Anal Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430072, China.
- Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Medical Research Institute, TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China.
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2
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Xiong D, Wang Q, Wang WM, Sun ZJ. Tuning cellular metabolism for cancer virotherapy. Cancer Lett 2024; 592:216924. [PMID: 38718886 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216924] [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: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
Oncolytic viruses (OVs) represent an emerging immunotherapeutic strategy owing to their capacity for direct tumor lysis and induction of antitumor immunity. However, hurdles like transient persistence and moderate efficacy necessitate innovative approaches. Metabolic remodeling has recently gained prominence as a strategic intervention, wherein OVs or combination regimens could reprogram tumor and immune cell metabolism to enhance viral replication and oncolysis. In this review, we summarize recent advances in strategic reprogramming of tumor and immune cell metabolism to enhance OV-based immunotherapies. Specific tactics include engineering viruses to target glycolytic, glutaminolytic, and nucleotide synthesis pathways in cancer cells, boosting viral replication and tumor cell death. Additionally, rewiring T cell and NK cell metabolism of lipids, amino acids, and carbohydrates shows promise to enhance antitumor effects. Further insights are discussed to pave the way for the clinical implementation of metabolically enhanced oncolytic platforms, including balancing metabolic modulation to limit antiviral responses while promoting viral persistence and tumor clearance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dian Xiong
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Taikang Center for Life and Medical Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, PR China
| | - Qing Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Taikang Center for Life and Medical Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, PR China
| | - Wei-Ming Wang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Center of Stomatology, Institute of Oral Precancerous Lesions, Xiangya Hospital, Research Center of Oral and Maxillofacial Tumor, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, PR China.
| | - Zhi-Jun Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Taikang Center for Life and Medical Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430079, PR China.
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3
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Liu Z, Li L, Liu L, Zhu Z, Yu Y, Zhan S, Luo Z, Li Y, Long H, Cai J, Huang K, Du X. PDK3 drives colorectal carcinogenesis and immune evasion and is a therapeutic target for boosting immunotherapy. Am J Cancer Res 2024; 14:3117-3129. [PMID: 39005672 PMCID: PMC11236793 DOI: 10.62347/qwkz3078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Pyruvate Dehydrogenase Kinase 3 (PDK3) has emerged as a significant player in various cancer types, yet its specific impact on cancers including colon cancer remains ambiguous. Through pan-cancer analysis using TCGA data, we found that the expression of PDK3 and the composition of the immune microenvironment for different tumors were highly heterogeneous across tumors. PDK3 is highly expressed in colorectal cancer and may promote tumor proliferation by activating PI3K-AKT signaling. In addition, we found that PDK3 was able to inhibit tumor antigen presentation signals to suppress immune killing. High PDK3 expression predicts less CD8+ T cell infiltration and effector function. Moreover, inhibition of PDK3 expression bolstered CD8+ T cell-mediated cytotoxicity CD8+ T cell infiltration and activation in vivo. Notably, PDK3 was found to facilitate STAT1 activation and elevate programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression in colon cancer cells. Importantly, PDK3 inhibition combination with PD-1 blockade significantly activates the infiltrated CD8+ T cells to suppress tumor growth and improves the survival benefit in several murine tumor models. In summary, these findings underscore PDK3's role in fueling colon cancer growth by orchestrating PI3K-AKT signaling and PD-L1 expression and dampening CD8+ T cell function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiqiang Liu
- Department of Neurology, Jiangxi Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Liang Li
- Department of Emergency, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Lei Liu
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Zhengming Zhu
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Yi Yu
- Department of Urology Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Shaochao Zhan
- Department of Urology Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Zepeng Luo
- Department of Urology Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Yuchen Li
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Jiangxi Provincial Cancer Hospital Nanchang 330029, Jiangxi, China
| | - He Long
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Jing Cai
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Kai Huang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Jiangxi Provincial Cancer Hospital Nanchang 330029, Jiangxi, China
| | - Xiaohong Du
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
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4
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Zhang K, Zhu J, Wang P, Chen Y, Wang Z, Ge X, Wu J, Chen L, Lu Y, Xu P, Yao J. Plasma metabolites as mediators in immune cell-pancreatic cancer risk: insights from Mendelian randomization. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1402113. [PMID: 38933268 PMCID: PMC11199692 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1402113] [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: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Immune cells play a crucial role in the development and progression of pancreatic cancer, yet the causal relationship remains uncertain due to complex immune microenvironments and conflicting research findings. Mendelian randomization (MR), this study aims to delineate the causal relationships between immune cells and pancreatic cancer while identifying intermediary factors. Methods The genome-wide association study (GWAS) data on immune cells, pancreatic cancer, and plasma metabolites are derived from public databases. In this investigation, inverse variance weighting (IVW) as the primary analytical approach to investigate the causal relationship between exposure and outcome. Furthermore, this study incorporates MR-Egger, simple mode, weighted median, and weighted mode as supplementary analytical approaches. To ensure the reliability of our findings, we further assessed horizontal pleiotropy and heterogeneity and evaluated the stability of MR results using the Leave-one-out method. In conclusion, this study employed mediation analysis to elucidate the potential mediating effects of plasma metabolites. Results Our investigation revealed a causal relationship between immune cells and pancreatic cancer, highlighting the pivotal roles of CD11c+ monocytes (odds ratio, ORIVW=1.105; 95% confidence interval, 95%CI: 1.002-1.218; P=0.045), HLA DR+ CD4+ antigen-presenting cells (ORIVW=0.920; 95%CI: 0.873-0.968; P=0.001), and HLA DR+ CD8br T cells (ORIVW=1.058; 95%CI: 1.002-1.117; P=0.041) in pancreatic cancer progression. Further mediation analysis indicated that oxalate (proportion of mediation effect in total effect: -11.6%, 95% CI: -89.7%, 66.6%) and the mannose to trans-4-hydroxyproline ratio (-19.4, 95% CI: -136%, 96.8%) partially mediate the relationship between HLA DR+ CD8br T cells and pancreatic cancer in nature. In addition, our analysis indicates that adrenate (-8.39%, 95% CI: -18.3%, 1.54%) plays a partial mediating role in the association between CD11c+ monocyte and pancreatic cancer, while cortisone (-26.6%, 95% CI: 138%, -84.8%) acts as a partial mediator between HLA DR+ CD4+ AC and pancreatic cancer. Conclusion This MR investigation provides evidence supporting the causal relationship between immune cell and pancreatic cancer, with plasma metabolites serving as mediators. Identifying immune cell phenotypes with potential causal effects on pancreatic cancer sheds light on its underlying mechanisms and suggests novel therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Zhang
- Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Jie Zhu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Northern Jiangsu People’s Hospital Affiliated Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Peng Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Northern Jiangsu People’s Hospital Affiliated Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Yuan Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Northern Jiangsu People’s Hospital Affiliated Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Zhengwang Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Northern Jiangsu People’s Hospital Affiliated Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Xinyu Ge
- Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Junqing Wu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Northern Jiangsu People’s Hospital Affiliated Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Long Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Northern Jiangsu People’s Hospital Affiliated Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Yipin Lu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Northern Jiangsu People’s Hospital Affiliated Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Peng Xu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Northern Jiangsu People’s Hospital Affiliated Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Jie Yao
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Northern Jiangsu People’s Hospital Affiliated Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
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5
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Wang Y, Wu Q, Wei X, Huang G, Feng G, Xu H, Gou X. Increased Immune Infiltration and Improved Prognosis of Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma Associated with Reduced Ancient Ubiquitous Protein 1 Gene Expression. Mol Biotechnol 2024:10.1007/s12033-024-01161-2. [PMID: 38862860 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-024-01161-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to explore the molecular mechanism underlying the prognostic role of ancient ubiquitous protein 1 (AUP1) in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) and its relationship with the tumor immune microenvironment. Various web resources were used to analyze the differential expression of AUP1 and its role in the HNSCC pathogenesis. A nomogram aimed at predicting 1-, 3-, and 5-year survival rates was developed based on the patient's clinicopathological characteristics and AUP1 expression pattern. Several algorithms and analytical tools were used to explore the correlation between AUP1 expression and sensitivity to immune checkpoint gene therapy by evaluating infiltrating immune cells in patients with HNSCC. Higher AUP1 mRNA and protein expression levels were observed in most tumors and HNSCC than in the normal tissues. High AUP1 expression was an independent predictive risk factor for the overall survival of patients as it was closely associated with the patients' T, M, clinical, and pathological stages and lymphovascular invasion in HNSCC. In conclusion, AUP1 is involved in the occurrence and progression of HNSCC, may be used as an independent prognostic factor in patients with HNSCC, and could serve as a potential intervention target to improve immunotherapy sensitivity in HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Wang
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Qian Wu
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Xiao Wei
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Gang Huang
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Guangyong Feng
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Hui Xu
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Xiaoxia Gou
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China.
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6
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Bell HN, Zou W. Beyond the Barrier: Unraveling the Mechanisms of Immunotherapy Resistance. Annu Rev Immunol 2024; 42:521-550. [PMID: 38382538 PMCID: PMC11213679 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-immunol-101819-024752] [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] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) induces a remarkable and durable response in a subset of cancer patients. However, most patients exhibit either primary or acquired resistance to ICB. This resistance arises from a complex interplay of diverse dynamic mechanisms within the tumor microenvironment (TME). These mechanisms include genetic, epigenetic, and metabolic alterations that prevent T cell trafficking to the tumor site, induce immune cell dysfunction, interfere with antigen presentation, drive heightened expression of coinhibitory molecules, and promote tumor survival after immune attack. The TME worsens ICB resistance through the formation of immunosuppressive networks via immune inhibition, regulatory metabolites, and abnormal resource consumption. Finally, patient lifestyle factors, including obesity and microbiome composition, influence ICB resistance. Understanding the heterogeneity of cellular, molecular, and environmental factors contributing to ICB resistance is crucial to develop targeted therapeutic interventions that enhance the clinical response. This comprehensive overview highlights key mechanisms of ICB resistance that may be clinically translatable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah N Bell
- Center of Excellence for Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Michigan Medical School, Rogel Cancer Center, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Graduate Programs in Cancer Biology and Immunology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; ,
| | - Weiping Zou
- Center of Excellence for Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Michigan Medical School, Rogel Cancer Center, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; ,
- Graduate Programs in Cancer Biology and Immunology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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7
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Hou X, Pan D, Zhong D, Gong Q, Luo K. Dendronized Polymer-Derived Nanomedicines for Mitochondrial Dynamics Regulation and Immune Modulation. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2400582. [PMID: 38477381 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202400582] [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: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
The effects of dendron side chains in polymeric conjugates on tumor penetration and antigen presentation are systematically examined. Three polymer-gemcitabine (Gem) conjugates (pG0-Gem, pG1-Gem, pG2-Gem) are designed and prepared. The pG2-Gem conjugate uniquely binds to the mitochondria of tumor cells, thus regulating mitochondrial dynamics. The interaction between the pG2-Gem conjugate and the mitochondria promotes great penetration and accumulation of the conjugate at the tumor site, resulting in pronounced antitumor effects in an animal model. Such encouraging therapeutic effects can be ascribed to immune modulation since MHC-1 antigen presentation is significantly enhanced due to mitochondrial fusion and mitochondrial metabolism alteration after pG2-Gem treatment. Crucially, the drug-free dendronized polymer, pG2, is identified to regulate mitochondrial dynamics, and the regulation is independent of the conjugated Gem. Furthermore, the combination of pG2-Gem with anti-PD-1 antibody results in a remarkable tumor clearance rate of 87.5% and a prolonged survival rate of over 150 days, demonstrating the potential of dendronized polymers as an innovative nanoplatform for metabolic modulation and synergistic tumor immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingyu Hou
- Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Dayi Pan
- Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Dan Zhong
- Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Qiyong Gong
- Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Functional and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, and Research Unit of Psychoradiology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Department of Radiology, West China Xiamen Hospital of Sichuan University, Xiamen, 361000, China
| | - Kui Luo
- Department of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
- Functional and Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, and Research Unit of Psychoradiology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Chengdu, 610041, China
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8
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Bell HN, Stockwell BR, Zou W. Ironing out the role of ferroptosis in immunity. Immunity 2024; 57:941-956. [PMID: 38749397 PMCID: PMC11101142 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2024.03.019] [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: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
Ferroptosis is a type of regulated cell death that drives the pathophysiology of many diseases. Oxidative stress is detectable in many types of regulated cell death, but only ferroptosis involves lipid peroxidation and iron dependency. Ferroptosis originates and propagates from several organelles, including the mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi, and lysosomes. Recent data have revealed that immune cells can both induce and undergo ferroptosis. A mechanistic understanding of how ferroptosis regulates immunity is critical to understanding how ferroptosis controls immune responses and how this is dysregulated in disease. Translationally, more work is needed to produce ferroptosis-modulating immunotherapeutics. This review focuses on the role of ferroptosis in immune-related diseases, including infection, autoimmune diseases, and cancer. We discuss how ferroptosis is regulated in immunity, how this regulation contributes to disease pathogenesis, and how targeting ferroptosis may lead to novel therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah N Bell
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan School of Medicine, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Center of Excellence for Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Michigan School of Medicine, Rogel Cancer Center, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Graduate Program in Cancer Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Graduate Program in Immunology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
| | - Brent R Stockwell
- Department of Biological Sciences, Department of Chemistry, Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Weiping Zou
- Department of Surgery, University of Michigan School of Medicine, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Center of Excellence for Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Michigan School of Medicine, Rogel Cancer Center, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Graduate Program in Cancer Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Graduate Program in Immunology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Department of Pathology, University of Michigan School of Medicine, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
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9
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Wei XW, Lu C, Zhang YC, Fan X, Xu CR, Chen ZH, Wang F, Yang XR, Deng JY, Yang MY, Gou Q, Mei SQ, Luo WC, Zhong RW, Zhong WZ, Yang JJ, Zhang XC, Tu HY, Wu YL, Zhou Q. Redox high phenotype mediated by KEAP1/STK11/SMARCA4/NRF2 mutations diminishes tissue-resident memory CD8+ T cells and attenuates the efficacy of immunotherapy in lung adenocarcinoma. Oncoimmunology 2024; 13:2340154. [PMID: 38601319 PMCID: PMC11005803 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2024.2340154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Metabolism reprogramming within the tumor microenvironment (TME) can have a profound impact on immune cells. Identifying the association between metabolic phenotypes and immune cells in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) may reveal mechanisms of resistance to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). Metabolic phenotypes were classified by expression of metabolic genes. Somatic mutations and transcriptomic features were compared across the different metabolic phenotypes. The metabolic phenotype of LUAD is predominantly determined by reductase-oxidative activity and is divided into two categories: redoxhigh LUAD and redoxlow LUAD. Genetically, redoxhigh LUAD is mainly driven by mutations in KEAP1, STK11, NRF2, or SMARCA4. These mutations are more prevalent in redoxhigh LUAD (72.5%) compared to redoxlow LUAD (17.4%), whereas EGFR mutations are more common in redoxlow LUAD (19.0% vs. 0.7%). Single-cell RNA profiling of pre-treatment and post-treatment samples from patients receiving neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy revealed that tissue-resident memory CD8+ T cells are responders to ICIs. However, these cells are significantly reduced in redoxhigh LUAD. The redoxhigh phenotype is primarily attributed to tumor cells and is positively associated with mTORC1 signaling. LUAD with the redoxhigh phenotype demonstrates a lower response rate (39.1% vs. 70.8%, p = 0.001), shorter progression-free survival (3.3 vs. 14.6 months, p = 0.004), and overall survival (12.1 vs. 31.2 months, p = 0.022) when treated with ICIs. The redoxhigh phenotype in LUAD is predominantly driven by mutations in KEAP1, STK11, NRF2, and SMARCA4. This phenotype diminishes the number of tissue-resident memory CD8+ T cells and attenuates the efficacy of ICIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue-Wu Wei
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Lung Cancer Institute, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chang Lu
- Guangdong Lung Cancer Institute, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi-Chen Zhang
- Guangdong Lung Cancer Institute, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xue Fan
- Guangdong Lung Cancer Institute, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chong-Rui Xu
- Guangdong Lung Cancer Institute, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhi-Hong Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Translational Medicine in Lung Cancer, Guangdong Lung Cancer Institute, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fen Wang
- Department of Oncology, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Cancer Translational Research, Cancer Institute, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen-Peking University-Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Medical Center, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiao-Rong Yang
- Guangdong Lung Cancer Institute, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jia-Yi Deng
- Guangdong Lung Cancer Institute, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ming-Yi Yang
- Guangdong Lung Cancer Institute, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qing Gou
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shi-Qi Mei
- Guangdong Lung Cancer Institute, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei-Chi Luo
- Guangdong Lung Cancer Institute, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ri-Wei Zhong
- Guangdong Lung Cancer Institute, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wen-Zhao Zhong
- Guangdong Lung Cancer Institute, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jin-Ji Yang
- Guangdong Lung Cancer Institute, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xu-Chao Zhang
- Guangdong Lung Cancer Institute, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hai-Yan Tu
- Guangdong Lung Cancer Institute, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi-Long Wu
- Guangdong Lung Cancer Institute, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qing Zhou
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Lung Cancer Institute, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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10
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Yang S, Wu J, Wang Z, Cheng Y, Zhang R, Yao C, Yang D. A Smart DNA Hydrogel Enables Synergistic Immunotherapy and Photodynamic Therapy of Melanoma. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202319073. [PMID: 38353346 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202319073] [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: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2024]
Abstract
Immunotherapy faces insufficient immune activation and limited immune effectiveness. Herein, we report a smart DNA hydrogel that enables the release of multivalent functional units at the tumor site to enhance the efficacy of immunotherapy. The smart DNA hydrogel was assembled from two types of ultra-long DNA chains synthesized via rolling circle amplification. One DNA chain contained immune adjuvant CpG oligonucleotides and polyaptamers for loading natural killer cell-derived exosomes; the other chain contained multivalent G-quadruplex for loading photodynamic agents. DNA chains formed DNA hydrogel through base-pairing. HhaI restriction endonuclease sites were designed between functional units. Upon stimuli in the tumor sites, the hydrogel was effectively cleaved by the released HhaI and disassembled into functional units. Natural killer cell-derived exosomes played an anti-tumor role, and the CpG oligonucleotide activated antigen-presenting cells to enhance the immunotherapy. Besides the tumor-killing effect of photodynamic therapy, the generated cellular debris acted as an immune antigen to further enhance the immunotherapeutic effect. In a mouse melanoma orthotopic model, the smart DNA hydrogel as a localized therapeutic agent, achieved a remarkable tumor suppression rate of 91.2 %. The smart DNA hydrogel exhibited enhanced efficacy of synergistic immunotherapy and photodynamic therapy, expanding the application of DNA materials in biomedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sen Yang
- Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology, Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (MOE), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300350, P.R. China
- Department of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, College of Chemistry and Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, P.R. China
| | - Junlin Wu
- Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology, Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (MOE), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300350, P.R. China
| | - Zhongyu Wang
- Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology, Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (MOE), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300350, P.R. China
| | - Yu Cheng
- Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology, Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (MOE), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300350, P.R. China
| | - Rui Zhang
- Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology, Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (MOE), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300350, P.R. China
- Department of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, College of Chemistry and Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, P.R. China
| | - Chi Yao
- Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology, Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (MOE), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300350, P.R. China
| | - Dayong Yang
- Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology, Key Laboratory of Systems Bioengineering (MOE), School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300350, P.R. China
- Department of Chemistry, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Catalysis and Innovative Materials, College of Chemistry and Materials, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, P.R. China
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11
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Chen Y, Chen K, Zhu H, Qin H, Liu J, Cao X. Methyltransferase Setd2 prevents T cell-mediated autoimmune diseases via phospholipid remodeling. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2314561121. [PMID: 38359295 PMCID: PMC10895270 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2314561121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Coordinated metabolic reprogramming and epigenetic remodeling are critical for modulating T cell function and differentiation. However, how the epigenetic modification controls Th17/Treg cell balance via metabolic reprogramming remains obscure. Here, we find that Setd2, a histone H3K36 trimethyltransferase, suppresses Th17 development but promotes iTreg cell polarization via phospholipid remodeling. Mechanistically, Setd2 up-regulates transcriptional expression of lysophosphatidylcholine acyltransferase 4 (Lpcat4) via directly catalyzing H3K36me3 of Lpcat4 gene promoter in T cells. Lpcat4-mediated phosphatidylcholine PC(16:0,18:2) generation in turn limits endoplasmic reticulum stress and oxidative stress. These changes decrease HIF-1α transcriptional activity and thus suppress Th17 but enhance Treg development. Consistent with this regulatory paradigm, T cell deficiency of Setd2 aggravates neuroinflammation and demyelination in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis due to imbalanced Th17/Treg cell differentiation. Overall, our data reveal that Setd2 acts as an epigenetic brake for T cell-mediated autoimmunity through phospholipid remodeling, suggesting potential targets for treating neuroinflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yali Chen
- Department of Immunology, Center for Immunotherapy, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100005, China
- National Key Laboratory of Immunity and Inflammation, Institute of Immunology, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Kun Chen
- Department of Immunology, Center for Immunotherapy, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100005, China
- Translational Medical Center for Stem Cell Therapy, Shanghai East Hospital, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai 200120, China
| | - Ha Zhu
- National Key Laboratory of Immunity and Inflammation, Institute of Immunology, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Hua Qin
- Institute of Immunology, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Juan Liu
- National Key Laboratory of Immunity and Inflammation, Institute of Immunology, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Xuetao Cao
- Department of Immunology, Center for Immunotherapy, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100005, China
- National Key Laboratory of Immunity and Inflammation, Institute of Immunology, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
- Institute of Immunology, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
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12
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Jin S, Guo Y, Wang X. Development of Platinum Complexes for Tumor Chemoimmunotherapy. Chemistry 2024; 30:e202302948. [PMID: 38171804 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202302948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Platinum complexes are potential antitumor drugs in chemotherapy. Their impact on tumor treatment could be greatly strengthened by combining with immunotherapy. Increasing evidences indicate that the antitumor activity of platinum complexes is not limited to chemical killing effects, but also extends to immunomodulatory actions. This review introduced the general concept of chemoimmunotherapy and summarized the progress of platinum complexes as chemoimmunotherapeutic agents in recent years. Platinum complexes could be developed into inducers of immunogenic cell death, blockers of immune checkpoint, regulators of immune signaling pathway, and modulators of tumor immune microenvironment, etc. The synergy between chemotherapeutic and immunomodulatory effects reinforces the antitumor activity of platinum complexes, and helps them circumvent the drug resistance and systemic toxicity. The exploration of platinum complexes for chemoimmunotherapy may create new opportunities to revive the discovery of metal anticancer drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suxing Jin
- School of Food Science and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, 210023, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, P. R. China
| | - Yan Guo
- School of Materials and Chemical Engineering, Henan University of Urban Construction, Pingdingshan, 467036, Henan, P. R. China
| | - Xiaoyong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, P. R. China
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13
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Wang J, Liu C, Hu R, Wu L, Li C. Statin therapy: a potential adjuvant to immunotherapies in hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1324140. [PMID: 38362156 PMCID: PMC10867224 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1324140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most prevalent cancers worldwide and accounts for more than 90% of primary liver cancer. The advent of immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI)-related therapies combined with angiogenesis inhibition has revolutionized the treatment of HCC in late-stage and unresectable HCC, as ICIs alone were disappointing in treating HCC. In addition to the altered immune microenvironment, abnormal lipid metabolism in the liver has been extensively characterized in various types of HCC. Stains are known for their cholesterol-lowering properties and their long history of treating hypercholesterolemia and reducing cardiovascular disease risk. Apart from ICI and other conventional therapies, statins are frequently used by advanced HCC patients with dyslipidemia, which is often marked by the abnormal accumulation of cholesterol and fatty acids in the liver. Supported by a body of preclinical and clinical studies, statins may unexpectedly enhance the efficacy of ICI therapy in HCC patients through the regulation of inflammatory responses and the immune microenvironment. This review discusses the abnormal changes in lipid metabolism in HCC, summarizes the clinical evidence and benefits of stain use in HCC, and prospects the possible mechanistic actions of statins in transforming the immune microenvironment in HCC when combined with immunotherapies. Consequently, the use of statin therapy may emerge as a novel and valuable adjuvant for immunotherapies in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiao Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Wuhan Hospital of Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chengyu Liu
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, Wuhan Hospital of Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ronghua Hu
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, Wuhan Hospital of Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Licheng Wu
- School of Clinical Medicine, Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, 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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14
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Occhipinti A, Verma S, Doan LMT, Angione C. Mechanism-aware and multimodal AI: beyond model-agnostic interpretation. Trends Cell Biol 2024; 34:85-89. [PMID: 38087709 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcb.2023.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
Artificial intelligence (AI) is widely used for exploiting multimodal biomedical data, with increasingly accurate predictions and model-agnostic interpretations, which are however also agnostic to biological mechanisms. Combining metabolic modelling, 'omics, and imaging data via multimodal AI can generate predictions that can be interpreted mechanistically and transparently, therefore with significantly higher therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annalisa Occhipinti
- School of Computing, Engineering and Digital Technologies, Teesside University, Middlesborough, UK; Centre for Digital Innovation, Teesside University, Middlesborough, UK; National Horizons Centre, Teesside University, Darlington, UK
| | - Suraj Verma
- School of Computing, Engineering and Digital Technologies, Teesside University, Middlesborough, UK
| | - Le Minh Thao Doan
- School of Computing, Engineering and Digital Technologies, Teesside University, Middlesborough, UK
| | - Claudio Angione
- School of Computing, Engineering and Digital Technologies, Teesside University, Middlesborough, UK; Centre for Digital Innovation, Teesside University, Middlesborough, UK; National Horizons Centre, Teesside University, Darlington, UK.
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15
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Pascual G, Majem B, Benitah SA. Targeting lipid metabolism in cancer metastasis. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2024; 1879:189051. [PMID: 38101461 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2023.189051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
This review delves into the most recent research on the metabolic adaptability of cancer cells and examines how their metabolic functions can impact their progression into metastatic forms. We emphasize the growing significance of lipid metabolism and dietary lipids within the tumor microenvironment, underscoring their influence on tumor progression. Additionally, we present an outline of the interplay between metabolic processes and the epigenome of cancer cells, underscoring the importance regarding the metastatic process. Lastly, we examine the potential of targeting metabolism as a therapeutic approach in combating cancer progression, shedding light on innovative drugs/targets currently undergoing preclinical evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gloria Pascual
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Blanca Majem
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Salvador Aznar Benitah
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain; Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA), Barcelona, Spain.
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16
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A Heieis G, Everts B. O-GlcNAcylation at the center of antitumor immunity. Curr Opin Biotechnol 2023; 84:103009. [PMID: 37863017 DOI: 10.1016/j.copbio.2023.103009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
The post-translational modification known as O-GlcNAcylation is a highly dysregulated process in tumors, and a key contributor to malignant transformation. In contrast, after three decades since its discovery, very little has been revealed about this process in the immune system. With the prospect of targeting O-GlcNAcylation as tumor therapy, greater understanding of how it regulates immune responses in the context of the tumor microenvironment will be needed. Here, we discuss recent discoveries from which a picture is emerging that O-GlcNAcylation, in either tumors or in immune cells, could negatively impact overall antitumor immune responses. We propose that interference with O-GlcNAcylation thus holds promise for cancer treatment from both perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graham A Heieis
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Bart Everts
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, the Netherlands.
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17
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Gutjahr E, Fremd C, Arnscheidt J, Penzel R, Wacker J, Sinn P. Non-Response of Epstein-Barr Virus-Associated Breast Cancer after Primary Chemotherapy: Report of Two Cases. Pathogens 2023; 12:1387. [PMID: 38133273 PMCID: PMC10747629 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12121387] [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: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Based on epidemiological evidence and molecular findings, a possible association of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) with the carcinogenesis of breast cancer has been described. However, the frequency of EBV in breast cancer and the role of EBV regarding tumor progression or therapeutic results is largely unexplored. Here, we report on two cases of advanced, lymph node-positive invasive breast cancer of no special type (NST), histologically showing no clinical or histological evidence of tumor regression as an equivalent of a lack of response to primary systemic therapy. Both tumors were considered to be EBV-associated due to their positivity in EBV-encoded RNA (EBER) in situ hybridization (ISH) and their immunoreactivity against EBV Epstein-Barr nuclear antigen 1 (EBNA1). We hypothesize that the unusual non-response to chemotherapy in these cases of breast cancer classified as triple-negative and HER2-positive may be linked to the EBV co-infection of tumor cells. Therefore, EBV tumor testing should be considered in patients with breast cancer presenting with resistance to chemotherapy. This hypothesis may provide a new aspect in the context of EBV-associated mechanisms of tumor progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewgenija Gutjahr
- Department of General Pathology, University Hospital, 69121 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Carlo Fremd
- Department of Medical Oncology, National Center for Tumor Diseases, University Hospital and German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69121 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Johanna Arnscheidt
- Department of General Pathology, University Hospital, 69121 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Roland Penzel
- Department of General Pathology, University Hospital, 69121 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jürgen Wacker
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fuerst-Stirum-Hospital, 76646 Bruchsal, Germany
| | - Peter Sinn
- Department of General Pathology, University Hospital, 69121 Heidelberg, Germany
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18
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Karno B, Edwards DN, Chen J. Metabolic control of cancer metastasis: role of amino acids at secondary organ sites. Oncogene 2023; 42:3447-3456. [PMID: 37848626 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-023-02868-3] [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: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
Most cancer-related deaths are caused by the metastases, which commonly develop at multiple organ sites including the brain, bone, and lungs. Despite longstanding observations that the spread of cancer is not random, our understanding of the mechanisms that underlie metastatic spread to specific organs remains limited. However, metabolism has recently emerged as an important contributor to metastasis. Amino acids are a significant nutrient source to cancer cells and their metabolism which can serve to fuel biosynthetic pathways capable of facilitating cell survival and tumor expansion while also defending against oxidative stress. Compared to the primary tumor, each of the common metastatic sites exhibit vastly different nutrient compositions and environmental stressors, necessitating the need of cancer cells to metabolically thrive in their new environment during colonization and outgrowth. This review seeks to summarize the current literature on amino acid metabolism pathways that support metastasis to common secondary sites, including impacts on immune responses. Understanding the role of amino acids in secondary organ sites may offer opportunities for therapeutic inhibition of cancer metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Breelyn Karno
- Program in Cancer Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Deanna N Edwards
- Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
- Vanderbilt Ingram Cancer Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Jin Chen
- Program in Cancer Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA.
- Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.
- Vanderbilt Ingram Cancer Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.
- Department of Veterans Affairs, Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Nashville, TN, USA.
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA.
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19
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Audet-Delage Y, St-Louis C, Minarrieta L, McGuirk S, Kurreal I, Annis MG, Mer AS, Siegel PM, St-Pierre J. Spatiotemporal modeling of chemoresistance evolution in breast tumors uncovers dependencies on SLC38A7 and SLC46A1. Cell Rep 2023; 42:113191. [PMID: 37792528 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.113191] [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: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In solid tumors, drug concentrations decrease with distance from blood vessels. However, cellular adaptations accompanying the gradated exposure of cancer cells to drugs are largely unknown. Here, we modeled the spatiotemporal changes promoting chemotherapy resistance in breast cancer. Using pairwise cell competition assays at each step during the acquisition of chemoresistance, we reveal an important priming phase that renders cancer cells previously exposed to sublethal drug concentrations refractory to dose escalation. Therapy-resistant cells throughout the concentration gradient display higher expression of the solute carriers SLC38A7 and SLC46A1 and elevated intracellular concentrations of their associated metabolites. Reduced levels of SLC38A7 and SLC46A1 diminish the proliferative potential of cancer cells, and elevated expression of these SLCs in breast tumors from patients correlates with reduced survival. Our work provides mechanistic evidence to support dose-intensive treatment modalities for patients with solid tumors and reveals two members of the SLC family as potential actionable targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yannick Audet-Delage
- Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology and Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Catherine St-Louis
- Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology and Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Lucía Minarrieta
- Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology and Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Shawn McGuirk
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montréal, QC H3G 1Y6, Canada; Goodman Cancer Institute, McGill University, Montréal, QC H3A 1A3, Canada
| | - Irwin Kurreal
- Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology and Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Matthew G Annis
- Goodman Cancer Institute, McGill University, Montréal, QC H3A 1A3, Canada; Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Arvind Singh Mer
- Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology and Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Peter M Siegel
- Goodman Cancer Institute, McGill University, Montréal, QC H3A 1A3, Canada; Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Julie St-Pierre
- Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology and Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada; Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montréal, QC H3G 1Y6, Canada.
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20
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Corrado M, Frezza C. Glutamine availability unleashes dendritic cells' anti-tumor power. Cell Chem Biol 2023; 30:1012-1014. [PMID: 37738953 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2023.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
Metabolic competition within the tumor microenvironment (TME) shapes the efficacy of anticancer immunity. In the August 3rd issue of Nature, Guo et al.1 show that glutamine is an intercellular metabolic checkpoint between cancer and immune cells. Targeting glutamine metabolism in the TME is a promising strategy to improve anti-cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Corrado
- University of Cologne, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Institute for Genetics, Cologne, Germany; Cluster of Excellence Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-associated Diseases (CECAD), Cologne, Germany; Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), Cologne, Germany.
| | - Christian Frezza
- University of Cologne, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Institute for Genetics, Cologne, Germany; Cluster of Excellence Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-associated Diseases (CECAD), Cologne, Germany; University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Cologne, Germany.
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21
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Zhang Z, Chen M, Zhan W, Chen Y, Wang T, Chen Z, Fu Y, Zhao G, Mao D, Ruan J, Yuan FL. Acid-sensing ion channel 1a modulation of apoptosis in acidosis-related diseases: implications for therapeutic intervention. Cell Death Discov 2023; 9:330. [PMID: 37666823 PMCID: PMC10477349 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-023-01624-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Acid-sensing ion channel 1a (ASIC1a), a prominent member of the acid-sensing ion channel (ASIC) superfamily activated by extracellular protons, is ubiquitously expressed throughout the human body, including the nervous system and peripheral tissues. Excessive accumulation of Ca2+ ions via ASIC1a activation may occur in the acidified microenvironment of blood or local tissues. ASIC1a-mediated Ca2+‑induced apoptosis has been implicated in numerous pathologies, including neurological disorders, cancer, and rheumatoid arthritis. This review summarizes the role of ASIC1a in the modulation of apoptosis via various signaling pathways across different disease states to provide insights for future studies on the underlying mechanisms and development of therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenyu Zhang
- Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Affiliated to Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214041, China
| | - Minnan Chen
- Nantong First People's Hospital, Nantong, 226001, China
| | - Wenjing Zhan
- The Key Laboratory of Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Yuechun Chen
- Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Affiliated to Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214041, China
| | - Tongtong Wang
- Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Affiliated to Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214041, China
| | - Zhonghua Chen
- Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Affiliated to Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214041, China
| | - Yifei Fu
- Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Affiliated to Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214041, China
| | - Gang Zhao
- Orthopaedic Institute, Wuxi 9th People's Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University, Wuxi, 214062, China
| | - Dong Mao
- Orthopaedic Institute, Wuxi 9th People's Hospital Affiliated to Soochow University, Wuxi, 214062, China.
| | - Jingjing Ruan
- Nantong First People's Hospital, Nantong, 226001, China.
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, People's Republic of China.
| | - Feng-Lai Yuan
- Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Affiliated to Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, 214041, China.
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