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Zhang Y, Zhang Y, Song J, Cheng X, Zhou C, Huang S, Zhao W, Zong Z, Yang L. Targeting the "tumor microenvironment": RNA-binding proteins in the spotlight in colorectal cancer therapy. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 131:111876. [PMID: 38493688 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.111876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer and has the second highest mortality rate among cancers. The development of CRC involves both genetic and epigenetic abnormalities, and recent research has focused on exploring the ex-transcriptome, particularly post-transcriptional modifications. RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) are emerging epigenetic regulators that play crucial roles in post-transcriptional events. Dysregulation of RBPs can result in aberrant expression of downstream target genes, thereby affecting the progression of colorectal tumors and the prognosis of patients. Recent studies have shown that RBPs can influence CRC pathogenesis and progression by regulating various components of the tumor microenvironment (TME). Although previous research on RBPs has primarily focused on their direct regulation of colorectal tumor development, their involvement in the remodeling of the TME has not been systematically reported. This review aims to highlight the significant role of RBPs in the intricate interactions within the CRC tumor microenvironment, including tumor immune microenvironment, inflammatory microenvironment, extracellular matrix, tumor vasculature, and CRC cancer stem cells. We also highlight several compounds under investigation for RBP-TME-based treatment of CRC, including small molecule inhibitors such as antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), siRNAs, agonists, gene manipulation, and tumor vaccines. The insights gained from this review may lead to the development of RBP-based targeted novel therapeutic strategies aimed at modulating the TME, potentially inhibiting the progression and metastasis of CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiwei Zhang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 1 MinDe Road, 330006 Nanchang, China; Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 1 Mingde Rd., Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China; Queen Mary School, Nanchang University, 330006 Nanchang, China
| | - Yujun Zhang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 1 MinDe Road, 330006 Nanchang, China; Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 1 Mingde Rd., Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Jingjing Song
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 1 MinDe Road, 330006 Nanchang, China; Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 1 Mingde Rd., Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China; School of Ophthalmology and Optometry of Nanchang University, China
| | - Xifu Cheng
- School of Ophthalmology and Optometry of Nanchang University, China
| | - Chulin Zhou
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Shuo Huang
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Wentao Zhao
- The 3rd Clinical Department of China Medical University, 10159 Shenyang, China
| | - Zhen Zong
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 1 MinDe Road, 330006 Nanchang, China.
| | - Lingling Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No. 1 Mingde Rd., Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China.
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2
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Ozmen E, Demir TD, Ozcan G. Cancer-associated fibroblasts: protagonists of the tumor microenvironment in gastric cancer. Front Mol Biosci 2024; 11:1340124. [PMID: 38562556 PMCID: PMC10982390 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2024.1340124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Enhanced knowledge of the interaction of cancer cells with their environment elucidated the critical role of tumor microenvironment in tumor progression and chemoresistance. Cancer-associated fibroblasts act as the protagonists of the tumor microenvironment, fostering the metastasis, stemness, and chemoresistance of cancer cells and attenuating the anti-cancer immune responses. Gastric cancer is one of the most aggressive cancers in the clinic, refractory to anti-cancer therapies. Growing evidence indicates that cancer-associated fibroblasts are the most prominent risk factors for a poor tumor immune microenvironment and dismal prognosis in gastric cancer. Therefore, targeting cancer-associated fibroblasts may be central to surpassing resistance to conventional chemotherapeutics, molecular-targeted agents, and immunotherapies, improving survival in gastric cancer. However, the heterogeneity in cancer-associated fibroblasts may complicate the development of cancer-associated fibroblast targeting approaches. Although single-cell sequencing studies started dissecting the heterogeneity of cancer-associated fibroblasts, the research community should still answer these questions: "What makes a cancer-associated fibroblast protumorigenic?"; "How do the intracellular signaling and the secretome of different cancer-associated fibroblast subpopulations differ from each other?"; and "Which cancer-associated fibroblast subtypes predominate specific cancer types?". Unveiling these questions can pave the way for discovering efficient cancer-associated fibroblast targeting strategies. Here, we review current knowledge and perspectives on these questions, focusing on how CAFs induce aggressiveness and therapy resistance in gastric cancer. We also review potential therapeutic approaches to prevent the development and activation of cancer-associated fibroblasts via inhibition of CAF inducers and CAF markers in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ece Ozmen
- Koç University Graduate School of Health Sciences, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Tevriz Dilan Demir
- Koç University Research Center for Translational Medicine (KUTTAM), Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Gulnihal Ozcan
- Koç University Research Center for Translational Medicine (KUTTAM), Istanbul, Türkiye
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, Koç University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Türkiye
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3
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Yang Z, Zhang X, Bai X, Xi X, Liu W, Zhong W. Anti-angiogenesis in colorectal cancer therapy. Cancer Sci 2024; 115:734-751. [PMID: 38233340 PMCID: PMC10921012 DOI: 10.1111/cas.16063] [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: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
The morbidity of colorectal cancer (CRC) has risen to third place among malignant tumors worldwide. In addition, CRC is a common cancer in China whose incidence increases annually. Angiogenesis plays an important role in the development of tumors because it can bring the nutrients that cancer cells need and take away metabolic waste. Various mechanisms are involved in the formation of neovascularization, and vascular endothelial growth factor is a key mediator. Meanwhile, angiogenesis inhibitors and drug resistance (DR) are challenges to consider when formulating treatment strategies for patients with different conditions. Thus, this review will discuss the molecules, signaling pathways, microenvironment, treatment, and DR of angiogenesis in CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenni Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyGeneral Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin Institute of Digestive Diseases, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive DiseasesTianjinChina
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyXing'an League People's HospitalXing'an LeagueChina
| | - Xuqian Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyGeneral Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin Institute of Digestive Diseases, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive DiseasesTianjinChina
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyChina Aerospace Science and Industry CorporationBeijingChina
| | - Xiaozhe Bai
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyXing'an League People's HospitalXing'an LeagueChina
| | - Xiaonan Xi
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology and College of PharmacyNankai UniversityTianjinChina
| | - Wentian Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyGeneral Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin Institute of Digestive Diseases, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive DiseasesTianjinChina
| | - Weilong Zhong
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyGeneral Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin Institute of Digestive Diseases, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive DiseasesTianjinChina
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Wei Y, Zhao X, Tang H, Ma J, Wang Y, Li L. SIM2: Its Prognostic Significance and Oncogenic Role in Endometrial Carcinoma. Onco Targets Ther 2024; 17:45-61. [PMID: 38292061 PMCID: PMC10826595 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s440788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Endometrial carcinoma ranks as the second most widespread malignancy affecting the reproductive system in females. Effective prognostic biomarkers are required to further improve survival rates for patients. Single-minded homolog 2 (SIM2) is known to participate in neurogenesis as a transcription factor. However, the potential role of SIM2 in endometrial carcinoma remains elusive. Methods Multiple public databases, including TIMER2.0, GEIPA2, UALCAN, LinkedOmics, BioGRID, DAVID and cBioPortal, were used to investigate SIM2 mRNA expression, SIM2-associated genes, PPI network, functional enrichment analysis, SIM2 gene alterations and methylation. The association between SIM2 expression and immune cell infiltrates was explored using GSVA. The effects of gene alterations and methylation on patient survival and CD8+T infiltration were examined using GSCA. Moreover, the prognostic potential of SIM2 was evaluated using COX regression, ROC curves and a nomogram model. Finally, the differential expression and function of SIM2 in UCEC were explored using qPCR, WB, CCK8 and Transwell assays. Results Our findings revealed the heightened expression of SIM2 in endometrial carcinoma, and that its DNA methylation and CNV alterations were correlated with immune infiltration and patients' prognosis. Additionally, functional enrichment revealed the involvement of SIM2 in transcription regulation and signal transduction. Moreover, we performed cell-based experiments to corroborate the oncogenic function of SIM2 in facilitating cell proliferation, migration and invasion. Conclusion Collectively, these results suggest that SIM2 holds promise as both a potential prognostic indicator and a viable treatment target for endometrial carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunfang Wei
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Shanghai Seventh People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200137, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xianlei Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Shanghai Seventh People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200137, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hong Tang
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Shanghai Seventh People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200137, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jin Ma
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Shanghai Seventh People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200137, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yongfeng Wang
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Shanghai Seventh People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200137, People’s Republic of China
| | - Linxia Li
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Shanghai Seventh People’s Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, 200137, People’s Republic of China
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Zhang RY, Cheng K, Huang ZY, Zhang XS, Li Y, Sun X, Yang XQ, Hu YG, Hou XL, Liu B, Chen W, Fan JX, Zhao YD. M1 macrophage-derived exosome for reprograming M2 macrophages and combining endogenous NO gas therapy with enhanced photodynamic synergistic therapy in colorectal cancer. J Colloid Interface Sci 2024; 654:612-625. [PMID: 37862809 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2023.10.054] [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: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
Reprogramming immunosuppressive M2 macrophages into M1 macrophages in tumor site provides a new strategy for the immunotherapy of colorectal cancer. In this study, M1 macrophage-derived exosome nanoprobe (M1UC) with Ce6-loaded upconversion material is designed to enhance the photodynamic performance of Ce6 while reprogramming M2 macrophages at tumor site and producing NO gas for three-mode synergistic therapy. Under the excitation of near-infrared light at 808 nm, the probe can generate 660 nm up-conversion fluorescence, which enables the photosensitizer Ce6 to produce ROS efficiently. In addition, the probe leads the production of NO by nitric oxide synthase on exosomes. Confocal laser and flow cytometry results show that M1UC probe reprograms M2 macrophages into M1 macrophages with an efficiency of 95.12%. The cell experiments show that the apoptosis rate of the three-mode synergistic therapy group is 78.8%, and the therapeutic effect is significantly higher than those of the other single treatment groups. In vivo experiments results show that M1UC probes maximally gather at the tumor site after 12 h of intravenous injection in orthotopic colorectal cancer mice. After 808 nm laser irradiation, the survival rate of mice is 100% and the recurrence rate was 0 within 60 d, and the therapeutic effect is significantly higher than those of other single treatment groups, which is also confirmed by immunohistochemistry. This M1 macrophage-derived exosome nanoplatform which is based on the three modes of immunotherapy, gas therapy and photodynamic therapy, provides a new design idea for the diagnosis and treatment of deep tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruo-Yun Zhang
- Britton Chance Center for Biomedical Photonics at Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics-Hubei Bioinformatics & Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, Hubei, PR China; School of Bioengineering and Health, Wuhan Textile University, Wuhan 430200, Hubei, PR China; State Key Laboratory of New Textile Materials and Advanced Processing Technologies, Wuhan Textile University, Wuhan 430200, Hubei, PR China
| | - Kai Cheng
- Britton Chance Center for Biomedical Photonics at Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics-Hubei Bioinformatics & Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, Hubei, PR China
| | - Zhuo-Yao Huang
- Britton Chance Center for Biomedical Photonics at Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics-Hubei Bioinformatics & Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, Hubei, PR China
| | - Xiao-Shuai Zhang
- Britton Chance Center for Biomedical Photonics at Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics-Hubei Bioinformatics & Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, Hubei, PR China; Basic Medical Laboratory, General Hospital of Central Theater Command, Wuhan 430081, Hubei, PR China
| | - Yong Li
- Britton Chance Center for Biomedical Photonics at Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics-Hubei Bioinformatics & Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, Hubei, PR China
| | - Xing Sun
- Britton Chance Center for Biomedical Photonics at Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics-Hubei Bioinformatics & Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, Hubei, PR China
| | - Xiao-Quan Yang
- Britton Chance Center for Biomedical Photonics at Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics-Hubei Bioinformatics & Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, Hubei, PR China
| | - Yong-Guo Hu
- Britton Chance Center for Biomedical Photonics at Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics-Hubei Bioinformatics & Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, Hubei, PR China
| | - Xiao-Lin Hou
- Britton Chance Center for Biomedical Photonics at Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics-Hubei Bioinformatics & Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, Hubei, PR China
| | - Bo Liu
- Britton Chance Center for Biomedical Photonics at Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics-Hubei Bioinformatics & Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, Hubei, PR China
| | - Wei Chen
- Britton Chance Center for Biomedical Photonics at Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics-Hubei Bioinformatics & Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, Hubei, PR China
| | - Jin-Xuan Fan
- Britton Chance Center for Biomedical Photonics at Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics-Hubei Bioinformatics & Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, Hubei, PR China.
| | - Yuan-Di Zhao
- Britton Chance Center for Biomedical Photonics at Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics-Hubei Bioinformatics & Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, Hubei, PR China.
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6
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Kwantwi LB. Genetic alterations shape innate immune cells to foster immunosuppression and cancer immunotherapy resistance. Clin Exp Med 2023; 23:4289-4296. [PMID: 37910258 DOI: 10.1007/s10238-023-01240-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy, particularly immune checkpoint inhibitors, has opened a new avenue for cancer treatment following the durable clinical benefits. Despite the clinical successes across several cancer types, primary or acquired resistance might eventually lead to cancer progression in patients with clinical responses. Hence, to broaden the clinical applicability of these treatments, a detailed understanding of the mechanisms limiting the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy is needed. Evidence provided thus far has implicated immunosuppressive innate immune cells infiltrating the tumor microenvironment as key players in immunotherapy resistance. According to the available data, genetic alterations can shape the innate immune response to promote immunotherapy resistance and tumor progression. Herein, this review has discussed the current understanding of the underlying mechanisms where genetic alterations modulate the innate immune milieu to drive immunosuppression and immunotherapy resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louis Boafo Kwantwi
- Department of Pathology, Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, California, USA.
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Yang Z, Luo J, Zhang M, Zhan M, Bai Y, Yang Y, Wang W, Lu L. TMSB4X: A novel prognostic marker for non-small cell lung cancer. Heliyon 2023; 9:e21505. [PMID: 38027718 PMCID: PMC10663839 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e21505] [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: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), as the main type of lung cancer, has a long history of high incidence and mortality. Despite the continuous updates to the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) staging system, which adapt to evolving treatment modalities and diagnostic advancements, it is evident that patients at the same stage exhibit varying prognoses. The heterogeneity of tumors underscores the need for molecular diagnostics to assume a pivotal role in tumor staging and patient stratification. In our investigation, we meticulously analyzed the data of the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, incorporating clinical patients and scrutinizing pathological specimens. Through this comprehensive approach, we established a correlation between the expression of the Thymosin beta 4 X-linked (TMSB4X) gene and poorer disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) post-surgery. Compared to the TMSB4X positive expression group, patients in the negative expression group had a better prognosis, with longer DFS (median disease-free survival (median DFS): 16.2 months vs. 11.3 months, P = 0.032) and OS (median overall survival (mOS): 29.8 months vs. 18.5 months, P = 0.033). Furthermore, our findings suggest that TMSB4X may facilitate immune evasion in non-small cell lung cancer cells by influencing the activation of infiltrating dendritic cells (DCs) in tumor infiltrating immune cells (TIICs) (R = 0.27, P = 4.8E+08). In summary, TMSB4X emerges as an unfavorable prognostic factor for NSCLC, potentially modulating the tumor immune microenvironment through its regulatory impact on dendritic cell function, thus facilitating tumor immune escape.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ze Yang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai People's Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zun Yi, Gui Zhou, China
| | - Jihang Luo
- Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zun Yi, Gui Zhou, China
| | - Mengmei Zhang
- Zunyi Medical and Pharmaceutical College, Zun Yi, Gui Zhou, China
| | - Meixiao Zhan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai People's Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Yuju Bai
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zun Yi, Gui Zhou, China
| | - Yi Yang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zun Yi, Gui Zhou, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Zhuhai People's Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Ligong Lu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment, Zhuhai People's Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
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Jagadeeshan S, Novoplansky OZ, Cohen O, Kurth I, Hess J, Rosenberg AJ, Grandis JR, Elkabets M. New insights into RAS in head and neck cancer. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2023; 1878:188963. [PMID: 37619805 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2023.188963] [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: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
RAS genes are known to be dysregulated in cancer for several decades, and substantial effort has been dedicated to develop agents that reduce RAS expression or block RAS activation. The recent introduction of RAS inhibitors for cancer patients highlights the importance of comprehending RAS alterations in head and neck cancer (HNC). In this regard, we examine the published findings on RAS alterations and pathway activations in HNC, and summarize their role in HNC initiation, progression, and metastasis. Specifically, we focus on the intrinsic role of mutated-RAS on tumor cell signaling and its extrinsic role in determining tumor-microenvironment (TME) heterogeneity, including promoting angiogenesis and enhancing immune escape. Lastly, we summarize the intrinsic and extrinsic role of RAS alterations on therapy resistance to outline the potential of targeting RAS using a single agent or in combination with other therapeutic agents for HNC patients with RAS-activated tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sankar Jagadeeshan
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Genetics, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O.B. 653, Beer-Sheva 8410501, Israel; Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O.B. 653, Beer-Sheva 8410501, Israel.
| | - Ofra Z Novoplansky
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Genetics, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O.B. 653, Beer-Sheva 8410501, Israel; Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O.B. 653, Beer-Sheva 8410501, Israel.
| | - Oded Cohen
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O.B. 653, Beer-Sheva 8410501, Israel; Department of Otolaryngology- Head and Neck Surgery and Oncology, Soroka Medical Center, Beersheva, Israel.
| | - Ina Kurth
- Division of Radiooncology-Radiobiology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Jochen Hess
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Heidelberg University Hospital, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; Molecular Mechanisms of Head and Neck Tumors, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Ari J Rosenberg
- Department of Medicine, Section of Hematology and Oncology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | - Jennifer R Grandis
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Moshe Elkabets
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Genetics, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O.B. 653, Beer-Sheva 8410501, Israel; Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, P.O.B. 653, Beer-Sheva 8410501, Israel.
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9
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Zhong Y, Yang K, Qin X, Luo R, Wang H. Impact of Molecular Status on Cytoreductive Surgery for Peritoneal Metastases from Colorectal Cancer. Clin Colon Rectal Surg 2023; 36:415-422. [PMID: 37795471 PMCID: PMC10547537 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1767705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer peritoneal metastases (CRC-PM) are present in 5 to 15% of instances of CRC, and the overall survival (OS) of patients with CRC-PM is much lower than that of patients with other isolated metastatic locations. In recent years, the introduction of cytoreductive surgery (CRS) in conjunction with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy has resulted in a significant improvement in CRC-PM patients' OS. Despite this, a significant proportion of CRS patients continue to suffer complications of grades III to V or even die during the perioperative period. Early diagnosis, optimization of patient selection criteria, and refining of individualized combination therapy are necessary for these patients. In this review, we evaluate studies examining the relationship between molecular status and CRS in CRC-PM. Our objective is to gain a comprehensive understanding of how the altered molecular status of CRC-PM impacts CRS, which could increase the likelihood of tailored therapy in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Zhong
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou, China
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Biomedical Material Conversion and Evaluation Engineering Technology Research Center of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
- Institute of Biomedical Innovation and Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine and Biomaterials, Guangzhou, China
| | - Keli Yang
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou, China
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Biomedical Material Conversion and Evaluation Engineering Technology Research Center of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
- Institute of Biomedical Innovation and Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine and Biomaterials, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiusen Qin
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou, China
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Biomedical Material Conversion and Evaluation Engineering Technology Research Center of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
- Institute of Biomedical Innovation and Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine and Biomaterials, Guangzhou, China
| | - Rui Luo
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou, China
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Biomedical Material Conversion and Evaluation Engineering Technology Research Center of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
- Institute of Biomedical Innovation and Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine and Biomaterials, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Sun Yat-sen University, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou, China
- Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Biomedical Material Conversion and Evaluation Engineering Technology Research Center of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
- Institute of Biomedical Innovation and Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine and Biomaterials, Guangzhou, China
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10
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Zhu X, Li S. Nanomaterials in tumor immunotherapy: new strategies and challenges. Mol Cancer 2023; 22:94. [PMID: 37312116 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-023-01797-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor immunotherapy exerts its anti-tumor effects by stimulating and enhancing immune responses of the body. It has become another important modality of anti-tumor therapy with significant clinical efficacy and advantages compared to chemotherapy, radiotherapy and targeted therapy. Although various kinds of tumor immunotherapeutic drugs have emerged, the challenges faced in the delivery of these drugs, such as poor tumor permeability and low tumor cell uptake rate, had prevented their widespread application. Recently, nanomaterials had emerged as a means for treatment of different diseases due to their targeting properties, biocompatibility and functionalities. Moreover, nanomaterials possess various characteristics that overcome the defects of traditional tumor immunotherapy, such as large drug loading capacity, precise tumor targeting and easy modification, thus leading to their wide application in tumor immunotherapy. There are two main classes of novel nanoparticles mentioned in this review: organic (polymeric nanomaterials, liposomes and lipid nanoparticles) and inorganic (non-metallic nanomaterials and metallic nanomaterials). Besides, the fabrication method for nanoparticles, Nanoemulsions, was also introduced. In summary, this review article mainly discussed the research progress of tumor immunotherapy based on nanomaterials in the past few years and offers a theoretical basis for exploring novel tumor immunotherapy strategies in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xudong Zhu
- Department of General Surgery, Cancer Hospital of Dalian University of Technology, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Hospital & Institute, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110042, People's Republic of China
| | - Shenglong Li
- Second Ward of Bone and Soft Tissue Tumor Surgery, Cancer Hospital of Dalian University of Technology, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Hospital & Institute, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110042, People's Republic of China.
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11
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Li A, Li X, Zou J, Zhuo X, Chen S, Chai X, Gai C, Xu W, Zhao Q, Zou Y. SOS1-inspired hydrocarbon-stapled peptide as a pan-Ras inhibitor. Bioorg Chem 2023; 135:106500. [PMID: 37003134 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2023.106500] [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: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
Blocking the interaction between Ras and Son of Sevenless homolog 1 (SOS1) has been an attractive therapeutic strategy for treating cancers involving oncogenic Ras mutations. K-Ras mutation is the most common in Ras-driven cancers, accounting for 86%, with N-Ras mutation and H-Ras mutation accounting for 11% and 3%, respectively. Here, we report the design and synthesis of a series of hydrocarbon-stapled peptides to mimic the alpha-helix of SOS1 as pan-Ras inhibitors. Among these stapled peptides, SSOSH-5 was identified to maintain a well-constrained alpha-helical structure and bind to H-Ras with high affinity. SSOSH-5 was furthermore validated to bind with Ras similarly to the parent linear peptide through structural modeling analysis. This optimized stapled peptide was proven to be capable of effectively inhibiting the proliferation of pan-Ras-mutated cancer cells and inducing apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner by modulating downstream kinase signaling. Of note, SSOSH-5 exhibited a high capability of crossing cell membranes and strong proteolytic resistance. We demonstrated that the peptide stapling strategy is a feasible approach for developing peptide-based pan-Ras inhibitors. Furthermore, we expect that SSOSH-5 can be further characterized and optimized for the treatment of Ras-driven cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anpeng Li
- School of Pharmacy, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, PR China; 92805 Military Hospital, Qingdao, PR China
| | - Xiang Li
- School of Pharmacy, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Jihua Zou
- School of Pharmacy, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, PR China
| | - Xiaobin Zhuo
- School of Pharmacy, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Shuai Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Xiaoyun Chai
- School of Pharmacy, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Conghao Gai
- School of Pharmacy, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Weiheng Xu
- School of Pharmacy, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, PR China.
| | - Qingjie Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, PR China.
| | - Yan Zou
- School of Pharmacy, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, PR China.
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12
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Nanomaterials: Breaking through the bottleneck of tumor immunotherapy. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 230:123159. [PMID: 36610572 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.123159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Immunotherapy exerts its excellent anti-tumor effects by stimulating and enhancing the immune response of the body, and has become another important class of anti-tumor therapy besides chemotherapy, targeted therapy and radiotherapy. Various types of immunotherapeutic drugs have gained their clinical values, but the in vivo delivery of drugs still faces many challenges, such as poor tumor permeability and low tumor cell uptake rate. In recent years, owing to highly targeting properties, better biocompatibility, and easy functionalization, nanomaterials have been widely applicated in tumor treatment, especially in tumor immunotherapy. Furthermore, nanomaterials have large drug loading capacity, strong tumor targeting and easy modification, which can effectively overcome the drawbacks of traditional immunotherapy. This paper reviews the progress of nanomaterial-based tumor immunotherapy in recent years and provides a theoretical basis for exploring new nanomaterial-based tumor immunotherapy strategies.
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13
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Ma SX, Li L, Cai H, Guo TK, Zhang LS. Therapeutic challenge for immunotherapy targeting cold colorectal cancer: A narrative review. World J Clin Oncol 2023; 14:81-88. [PMID: 36908678 PMCID: PMC9993140 DOI: 10.5306/wjco.v14.i2.81] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Cold colorectal tumors are not likely to trigger a robust immune response and tend to suppress the immune response. There may be three reasons. First, the complex tumor microenvironment of cold colorectal cancer (CRC) leads to tolerance and clearance of immunotherapy. Second, the modification and concealment of tumor-specific targets in cold CRC cause immune escape and immune response interruption. Finally, the difference in number and function of immune cell subsets in patients with cold CRC makes them respond poorly to immunotherapy. Therefore, we can only overcome the challenges in immunotherapy of cold CRC through in-depth research and understanding the changes and mechanisms in the above three aspects of cold CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shi-Xun Ma
- Department of General Surgery, Gansu Provincial Hospital, Lanzhou 73000, Gansu Province, China
| | - Li Li
- Scientific Research Division, Gansu Provincial Hospital, Lanzhou 730000, Gansu Province, China
| | - Hui Cai
- Department of General Surgery, Gansu Provincial Hospital, Lanzhou 73000, Gansu Province, China
| | - Tian-Kang Guo
- Department of General Surgery, Gansu Provincial Hospital, Lanzhou 73000, Gansu Province, China
| | - Lei-Sheng Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Gansu Provincial Hospital, Lanzhou 73000, Gansu Province, China
- Key Laboratory of Radiation Technology and Biophysics, Hefei Institute of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei 230031, Anhui Province, China
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14
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Liu X, Xin Z, Wang K. Patient-derived xenograft model in colorectal cancer basic and translational research. Animal Model Exp Med 2023; 6:26-40. [PMID: 36543756 PMCID: PMC9986239 DOI: 10.1002/ame2.12299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most popular malignancies globally, with 930 000 deaths in 2020. The evaluation of CRC-related pathogenesis and the discovery of potential therapeutic targets will be meaningful and helpful for improving CRC treatment. With huge efforts made in past decades, the systematic treatment regimens have been applied to improve the prognosis of CRC patients. However, the sensitivity of CRC to chemotherapy and targeted therapy is different from person to person, which is an important cause of treatment failure. The emergence of patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models shows great potential to alleviate the straits. PDX models possess similar genetic and pathological characteristics as the features of primary tumors. Moreover, PDX has the ability to mimic the tumor microenvironment of the original tumor. Thus, the PDX model is an important tool to screen precise drugs for individualized treatment, seek predictive biomarkers for prognosis supervision, and evaluate the unknown mechanism in basic research. This paper reviews the recent advances in constructed methods and applications of the CRC PDX model, aiming to provide new knowledge for CRC basic research and therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofeng Liu
- Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery Department I, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Zechang Xin
- Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery Department I, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Kun Wang
- Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery Department I, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education/Beijing), Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing, China
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15
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Li W, Chen W, Wang J, Zhao G, Chen L, Wan Y, Luo Q, Li W, Huang H, Li W, Li W, Yang Y, Chen D, Su Q. A PDX model combined with CD-DST assay to evaluate the antitumor properties of KRpep-2d and oxaliplatin in KRAS (G12D) mutant colorectal cancer. Heliyon 2022; 8:e12518. [PMID: 36590511 PMCID: PMC9800201 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e12518] [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: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models are more faithful in maintaining the characteristics of human tumors than cell lines and are widely used in drug development, although they have some disadvantages, including their relative low success rate, long turn-around time, and high costs. The collagen gel droplet embedded culture drug sensitivity test (CD-DST) has been used as an in-vitro drug sensitivity test for patients with cancer because of its high success rate of primary cell culture, high sensitivity, and good clinical relevance, but it is based on an in-vitro cell culture and may not simulate the tumor microenvironment accurately. This study aims to combine a PDX model with CD-DST to evaluate the efficiency of antitumor agents. KRpep-2d, a small peptide targeting KRAS (G12D), and oxaliplatin were used to verify the feasibility of this approach. Whole-exome sequencing and Sanger sequencing were first applied to test and validate the KRAS mutation status of a panel of colorectal cancer PDX tissues. One PDX model was verified to carry KRAS (G12D) mutation and was used for in-vivo and the CD-DST drug tests. We then established the PDX mouse model from the patient with the KRAS (G12D) mutation and obtained viable cancer cells derived from the same PDX model. Next, the antitumor abilities of KRpep-2d and oxaliplatin were estimated in the PDX model and the CD-DST. We found that KRpep-2d showed no significant antitumor effect on the xenograft model or on cancer cells derived from the same PDX model. In contrast, oxaliplatin showed significant inhibitory effects in both tests. In conclusion, the PDX model in combination with the CD-DST assay is a comprehensive and feasible method of evaluating the antitumor properties of compounds and could be applied for new drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wuguo Li
- Animal Experiment Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Wei Chen
- Department of Pathology, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Jialin Wang
- General Surgical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Guangyin Zhao
- Animal Experiment Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Lianzhou Chen
- General Surgical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Yong Wan
- Guangzhou Darui Biotechnology Co., Ltd., Guangzhou, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Qianxin Luo
- Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Wenwen Li
- Animal Experiment Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Haoji Huang
- Animal Experiment Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Wenying Li
- Animal Experiment Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Wu Li
- Animal Experiment Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Yutong Yang
- Animal Experiment Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Daici Chen
- Guangdong Institute of Gastroenterology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Colorectal and Pelvic Floor Diseases, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, PR China,Corresponding author.
| | - Qiao Su
- Animal Experiment Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, PR China,Corresponding author.
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