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Geay J, Margaron Y, Gentien D, Reyal F, Puisieux A, Blanchoin L, Guyon L, Théry M. Plakins are involved in the regulation of centrosome position in polarized epithelial cells. Biol Cell 2024; 116:e2400048. [PMID: 38850178 DOI: 10.1111/boc.202400048] [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: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND INFORMATION The control of epithelial cell polarity is key to their function. Its dysregulation is a major cause of tissue transformation. In polarized epithelial cells,the centrosome is off-centred toward the apical pole. This asymmetry determines the main orientation of the microtubule network and intra-cellular traffic. However, the mechanism regulating centrosome positioning at the apical pole of polarized epithelial cells is still poorly undertood. RESULTS In this study we used transcriptomic data from breast cancer cells to identify molecular changes associated with the different stages of tumour transformation. We correlated these changes with variations in centrosome position or with cell progression along the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), a process that involves centrosome repositioning. We found that low levels of epiplakin, desmoplakin and periplakin correlated with centrosome mispositioning in cells that had progressed through EMT or tissue transformation. We further tested the causal role of these plakins in the regulation of centrosome position by knocking down their expression in a non-tumorigenic breast epithelial cell line (MCF10A). The downregulation of periplakin reduced the length of intercellular junction, which was not affected by the downregulation of epiplakin or desmoplakin. However, down-regulating any of them disrupted centrosome polarisation towards the junction without affecting microtubule stability. CONCLUSIONS Altogether, these results demonstrated that epiplakin, desmoplakin and periplakin are involved in the maintenance of the peripheral position of the centrosome close to inter-cellular junctions. They also revealed that these plakins are downregulated during EMT and breast cancer progression, which are both associated with centrosome mispositioning. SIGNIFICANCE These results revealed that the down-regulation of plakins and the consequential centrosome mispositioning are key signatures of disorganised cytoskeleton networks, inter-cellular junction weakening, shape deregulation and the loss of polarity in breast cancer cells. These metrics could further be used as a new readouts for early phases of tumoral development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Geay
- Université de Paris, CEA/INSERM/AP-HP, Institut de Recherche Saint Louis, UMR976, HIPI, CytoMorpho Lab, Hopital Saint Louis, Paris, France
| | - Yoran Margaron
- Université Grenoble-Alpes, CEA/INRA/CNRS, Interdisciplinary Research Institute of Grenoble, UMR5168, LPCV, CytoMorpho Lab, Grenoble, France
| | - David Gentien
- Université PSL, Department of Translational Research, Institut Curie, Genomics Platform, Paris, France
| | - Fabien Reyal
- Université Paris Cité, Université PSL, INSERM U932, Breast Gynecological and Reconstructive Surgery, Institut Curie, Paris, France
| | - Alain Puisieux
- Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Cancer Research Center of Lyon, INSERM 1052, CNRS 5286, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
- Université PSL, Institut Curie, Université Versailles Saint-Quentin, CNRS UMR 3666, INSERM U1143, Paris, France
| | - Laurent Blanchoin
- Université de Paris, CEA/INSERM/AP-HP, Institut de Recherche Saint Louis, UMR976, HIPI, CytoMorpho Lab, Hopital Saint Louis, Paris, France
- Université Grenoble-Alpes, CEA/INRA/CNRS, Interdisciplinary Research Institute of Grenoble, UMR5168, LPCV, CytoMorpho Lab, Grenoble, France
| | - Laurent Guyon
- Université Grenoble Alpes, CEA/INSERM, Interdisciplinary Research Institute of Grenoble, BioSanté UMR_S 1292, Grenoble, France
| | - Manuel Théry
- Université de Paris, CEA/INSERM/AP-HP, Institut de Recherche Saint Louis, UMR976, HIPI, CytoMorpho Lab, Hopital Saint Louis, Paris, France
- Université Grenoble-Alpes, CEA/INRA/CNRS, Interdisciplinary Research Institute of Grenoble, UMR5168, LPCV, CytoMorpho Lab, Grenoble, France
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Wehbe N, Badran A, Baydoun S, Al-Sawalmih A, Maresca M, Baydoun E, Mesmar JE. The Antioxidant Potential and Anticancer Activity of Halodule uninervis Ethanolic Extract against Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells. Antioxidants (Basel) 2024; 13:726. [PMID: 38929164 PMCID: PMC11200955 DOI: 10.3390/antiox13060726] [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: 04/28/2024] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Natural remedies have been indispensable to traditional medicine practices for generations, offering therapeutic solutions for various ailments. In modern times, these natural products continue to play a pivotal role in the discovery of new drugs, especially for cancer treatment. The marine ecosystem offers a wide range of plants with potential anticancer activities due to their distinct biochemical diversity and adaptation to extreme situations. The seagrass Halodule uninervis is rich in diverse bioactive metabolites that bestow the plant with various pharmacological properties. However, its anticancer activity against invasive triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is still poorly investigated. In the present study, the phytochemical composition of an ethanolic extract of H. uninervis (HUE) was screened, and its antioxidant potential was evaluated. Moreover, the anticancer potential of HUE against MDA-MB-231 cells was investigated along with the possible underlying mechanisms of action. Our results showed that HUE is rich in diverse phytochemicals that are known for their antioxidant and anticancer effects. In MDA-MB-231 cells, HUE targeted the hallmarks of cancer, including cell proliferation, adhesion, migration, invasion, and angiogenesis. The HUE-mediated anti-proliferative and anti-metastatic effects were associated with the downregulation of the proto-oncogenic STAT3 signaling pathway. Taken together, H. uninervis could serve as a valuable source for developing novel drugs targeting TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadine Wehbe
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, American University of Beirut, Riad El Solh, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon; (N.W.); (E.B.)
| | - Adnan Badran
- Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of Petra, Amman 11196, Jordan;
| | - Serine Baydoun
- Breast Imaging Section, Imaging Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA;
| | - Ali Al-Sawalmih
- Marine Science Station, University of Jordan, Aqaba 11942, Jordan;
| | - Marc Maresca
- Aix-Marseille Univ, CNRS, Centrale Marseille, iSM2, 13013 Marseille, France
| | - Elias Baydoun
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, American University of Beirut, Riad El Solh, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon; (N.W.); (E.B.)
| | - Joelle Edward Mesmar
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, American University of Beirut, Riad El Solh, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon; (N.W.); (E.B.)
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Manjunath M, Ravindran F, Sharma S, Siddiqua H, Raghavan SC, Choudhary B. Disarib, a Specific BCL2 Inhibitor, Induces Apoptosis in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells and Impedes Tumour Progression in Xenografts by Altering Mitochondria-Associated Processes. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6485. [PMID: 38928195 PMCID: PMC11203414 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25126485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Targeted cancer therapy aims to disrupt the functions of proteins that regulate cancer progression, mainly by using small molecule inhibitors (SMIs). SMIs exert their effect by modulating signalling pathways, organelle integrity, chromatin components, and several biosynthetic processes essential for cell division and survival. Antiapoptotic protein BCL2 is highly upregulated in many cancers compared with normal cells, making it an ideal target for cancer therapy. Around 75% of primary breast cancers overexpress BCL2, providing an opportunity to explore BCL2 inhibitors as a therapeutic option. Disarib is an SMI that has been developed as a selective BCL2 inhibitor. Disarib works by disrupting BCL2-BAK interaction and activating intrinsic apoptotic pathways in leukemic cells while sparing normal cells. We investigated the effects of Disarib, a BCL2 specific inhibitor, on breast cancer cells and xenografts. Cytotoxicity and fluorometric assays revealed that Disarib induced cell death by increasing reactive oxygen species and activating intrinsic apoptotic pathways in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer cells (MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468). Disarib also affected the colony-forming properties of these cells. MDA-MB-231- and MDA-MB-468-derived xenografts showed a significant reduction in tumours upon Disarib treatment. Through the transcriptomics approach, we also explored the influence of BCL2 inhibitors on energy metabolism, mitochondrial dynamics, and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Mitochondrial dynamics and glucose metabolism mainly regulate energy metabolism. The change in energetics regulates tumour growth through epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and angiogenesis. RNA sequencing (RNAseq) analysis revealed that BCL2 inhibitors ABT-199 and Disarib maintain Oxphos levels in MDA-MB-231. However, key glycolytic genes were significantly downregulated. Mitochondrial fission genes were seen to be downregulated both in RNAseq data and semi quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction (qRTPCR) in Disarib-treated TNBC cells and xenografts. Lastly, Disarib inhibited wound healing and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. This study showed that Disarib disrupts mitochondrial function, activates the intrinsic apoptotic pathway in breast cancer, and inhibits epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition both in vitro and in vivo. These findings highlight Disarib's potential as a multifaceted therapeutic strategy for patients with Triple-Negative Breast Cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghana Manjunath
- Department of Biotechnology and Applied Bioinformatics, Institute of Bioinformatics and Applied Biotechnology, Electronic City Phase 1, Bengaluru 560100, India
| | - Febina Ravindran
- Department of Biotechnology and Applied Bioinformatics, Institute of Bioinformatics and Applied Biotechnology, Electronic City Phase 1, Bengaluru 560100, India
| | - Shivangi Sharma
- Department of Biotechnology and Applied Bioinformatics, Institute of Bioinformatics and Applied Biotechnology, Electronic City Phase 1, Bengaluru 560100, India
- Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru 560012, India; (H.S.); (S.C.R.)
| | - Humaira Siddiqua
- Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru 560012, India; (H.S.); (S.C.R.)
| | | | - Bibha Choudhary
- Department of Biotechnology and Applied Bioinformatics, Institute of Bioinformatics and Applied Biotechnology, Electronic City Phase 1, Bengaluru 560100, India
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Khan AQ, Hasan A, Mir SS, Rashid K, Uddin S, Steinhoff M. Exploiting transcription factors to target EMT and cancer stem cells for tumor modulation and therapy. Semin Cancer Biol 2024; 100:1-16. [PMID: 38503384 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2024.03.002] [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: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Transcription factors (TFs) are essential in controlling gene regulatory networks that determine cellular fate during embryogenesis and tumor development. TFs are the major players in promoting cancer stemness by regulating the function of cancer stem cells (CSCs). Understanding how TFs interact with their downstream targets for determining cell fate during embryogenesis and tumor development is a critical area of research. CSCs are increasingly recognized for their significance in tumorigenesis and patient prognosis, as they play a significant role in cancer initiation, progression, metastasis, and treatment resistance. However, traditional therapies have limited effectiveness in eliminating this subset of cells, allowing CSCs to persist and potentially form secondary tumors. Recent studies have revealed that cancer cells and tumors with CSC-like features also exhibit genes related to the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). EMT-associated transcription factors (EMT-TFs) like TWIST and Snail/Slug can upregulate EMT-related genes and reprogram cancer cells into a stem-like phenotype. Importantly, the regulation of EMT-TFs, particularly through post-translational modifications (PTMs), plays a significant role in cancer metastasis and the acquisition of stem cell-like features. PTMs, including phosphorylation, ubiquitination, and SUMOylation, can alter the stability, localization, and activity of EMT-TFs, thereby modulating their ability to drive EMT and stemness properties in cancer cells. Although targeting EMT-TFs holds potential in tackling CSCs, current pharmacological approaches to do so directly are unavailable. Therefore, this review aims to explore the role of EMT- and CSC-TFs, their connection and impact in cellular development and cancer, emphasizing the potential of TF networks as targets for therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdul Q Khan
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Adria Hasan
- Molecular Cell Biology Laboratory, Integral Information and Research Centre-4 (IIRC-4), Integral University, Kursi Road, Lucknow 226026, India; Department of Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, Integral University, Kursi Road, Lucknow 226026, India
| | - Snober S Mir
- Molecular Cell Biology Laboratory, Integral Information and Research Centre-4 (IIRC-4), Integral University, Kursi Road, Lucknow 226026, India; Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Science, Integral University, Kursi Road, Lucknow 226026, India
| | - Khalid Rashid
- Department of Urology,Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 303 E Superior Street, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Shahab Uddin
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar; Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Science, Integral University, Kursi Road, Lucknow 226026, India; Laboratory Animal Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar; Dermatology Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha 3050, Qatar
| | - Martin Steinhoff
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar; Dermatology Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha 3050, Qatar; Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Rumailah Hospital, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha 3050, Qatar; Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine Qatar, Qatar Foundation-Education City, Doha 24144, Qatar; Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, 1300 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, USA; College of Medicine, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar
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Barrientos-Toro EN, Ding Q, Raso MG. Translational Aspects in Metaplastic Breast Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1433. [PMID: 38611109 PMCID: PMC11011105 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16071433] [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: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women. Metaplastic breast carcinoma (MpBC) is a rare, heterogeneous group of invasive breast carcinomas, which are classified as predominantly triple-negative breast carcinomas (TNBCs; HR-negative/HER2-negative). Histologically, MpBC is classified into six subtypes. Two of these are considered low-grade and the others are high-grade. MpBCs seem to be more aggressive, less responsive to neoadjuvant chemotherapy, and have higher rates of chemoresistance than other TNBCs. MpBCs have a lower survival rate than expected for TNBCs. MpBC treatment represents a challenge, leading to a thorough exploration of the tumor immune microenvironment, which has recently opened the possibility of new therapeutic strategies. The epithelial-mesenchymal transition in MpBC is characterized by the loss of intercellular adhesion, downregulation of epithelial markers, underexpression of genes with biological epithelial functions, upregulation of mesenchymal markers, overexpression of genes with biological mesenchymal functions, acquisition of fibroblast-like (spindle) morphology, cytoskeleton reorganization, increased motility, invasiveness, and metastatic capabilities. This article reviews and summarizes the current knowledge and translational aspects of MpBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizve Nairoby Barrientos-Toro
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
| | - Qingqing Ding
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
| | - Maria Gabriela Raso
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
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6
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Inayatullah M, Mahesh A, Turnbull AK, Dixon JM, Natrajan R, Tiwari VK. Basal-epithelial subpopulations underlie and predict chemotherapy resistance in triple-negative breast cancer. EMBO Mol Med 2024; 16:823-853. [PMID: 38480932 PMCID: PMC11018633 DOI: 10.1038/s44321-024-00050-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most aggressive breast cancer subtype, characterized by extensive intratumoral heterogeneity, high metastasis, and chemoresistance, leading to poor clinical outcomes. Despite progress, the mechanistic basis of these aggressive behaviors remains poorly understood. Using single-cell and spatial transcriptome analysis, here we discovered basal epithelial subpopulations located within the stroma that exhibit chemoresistance characteristics. The subpopulations are defined by distinct signature genes that show a frequent gain in copy number and exhibit an activated epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition program. A subset of these genes can accurately predict chemotherapy response and are associated with poor prognosis. Interestingly, among these genes, elevated ITGB1 participates in enhancing intercellular signaling while ACTN1 confers a survival advantage to foster chemoresistance. Furthermore, by subjecting the transcriptional signatures to drug repurposing analysis, we find that chemoresistant tumors may benefit from distinct inhibitors in treatment-naive versus post-NAC patients. These findings shed light on the mechanistic basis of chemoresistance while providing the best-in-class biomarker to predict chemotherapy response and alternate therapeutic avenues for improved management of TNBC patients resistant to chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Inayatullah
- Institute for Molecular Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, Odense M, Denmark
| | - Arun Mahesh
- Institute for Molecular Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, Odense M, Denmark
| | - Arran K Turnbull
- Edinburgh Breast Cancer Now Research Group, Institute of Genetics and Cancer, University of Edinburgh, Western General Hospital, Edinburgh, EH4 2XU, UK
| | - J Michael Dixon
- Edinburgh Breast Cancer Now Research Group, Institute of Genetics and Cancer, University of Edinburgh, Western General Hospital, Edinburgh, EH4 2XU, UK
| | - Rachael Natrajan
- The Breast Cancer Now Toby Robins Research Centre, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, SW3 6JB, UK
| | - Vijay K Tiwari
- Institute for Molecular Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, Odense M, Denmark.
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, School of Medicine, Dentistry & Biomedical Science, Queens University Belfast, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK.
- Patrick G Johnston Centre for Cancer Research, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, BT9 7AE, UK.
- Danish Institute for Advanced Study (DIAS), Odense M, Denmark.
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Odense University Hospital, Odense C, Denmark.
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Hussein MA, Valinezhad K, Adel E, Munirathinam G. MALAT-1 Is a Key Regulator of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Cancer: A Potential Therapeutic Target for Metastasis. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:234. [PMID: 38201661 PMCID: PMC10778055 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16010234] [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: 12/12/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/01/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript-1 (MALAT-1) is a long intergenic non-coding RNA (lncRNA) located on chr11q13. It is overexpressed in several cancers and controls gene expression through chromatin modification, transcriptional regulation, and post-transcriptional regulation. Importantly, MALAT-1 stimulates cell proliferation, migration, and metastasis and serves a vital role in driving the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), subsequently acquiring cancer stem cell-like properties and developing drug resistance. MALAT-1 modulates EMT by interacting with various intracellular signaling pathways, notably the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt and Wnt/β-catenin pathways. It also behaves like a sponge for microRNAs, preventing their interaction with target genes and promoting EMT. In addition, we have used bioinformatics online tools to highlight the disparities in the expression of MALAT-1 between normal and cancer samples using data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Furthermore, the intricate interplay of MALAT-1 with several essential targets of cancer progression and metastasis renders it a good candidate for therapeutic interventions. Several innovative approaches have been exploited to target MALAT-1, such as short hairpin RNAs (shRNAs), antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), and natural products. This review emphasizes the interplay between MALAT-1 and EMT in modulating cancer metastasis, stemness, and chemoresistance in different cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Ali Hussein
- Department of Pharmaceutical Services, Children’s Cancer Hospital Egypt, Cairo 57357, Egypt;
- Department of Biology, School of Sciences and Engineering, American University in Cairo, New Cairo 11835, Egypt;
| | - Kamyab Valinezhad
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Illinois, Rockford, IL 61107, USA;
| | - Eman Adel
- Department of Biology, School of Sciences and Engineering, American University in Cairo, New Cairo 11835, Egypt;
| | - Gnanasekar Munirathinam
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Illinois, Rockford, IL 61107, USA;
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Akrida I, Mulita F, Plachouri KM, Benetatos N, Maroulis I, Papadaki H. Epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) in metaplastic breast cancer and phyllodes breast tumors. Med Oncol 2023; 41:20. [PMID: 38104042 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-023-02259-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), a transdifferentiation program whereby epithelial cells acquire mesenchymal phenotype, is essential during embryonic development. EMT has also been implicated in cancer progression by conferring migratory and metastatic potential, as well as cell plasticity and stem cell like traits, to cancer cells. Metaplastic breast carcinoma (MBC) is a rare aggressive type of breast cancer characterized by the presence of heterologous elements, typically by the existence of epithelial and mesenchymal components. Phyllodes tumors (PTs) are uncommon fibroepithelial neoplasms consisting of epithelial and mesenchymal elements. Although various hypotheses have been proposed on the pathogenesis of these biphasic tumors, there is growing evidence supporting the theory that PTs and MBC could both correlate with cancer related EMT. This review summarizes the existing literature on the emerging role of EMT in the pathogenesis of MBC and PTs. Both malignant PTs and MBC are characterized by poor prognosis. Therefore, several anti-EMT targeting strategies such as blocking upstream signaling pathways, targeting the molecular drivers of EMT and targeting mesenchymal cells and the extracellular matrix, could potentially represent a promising therapeutic approach for patients suffering from these aggressive neoplasms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioanna Akrida
- Department of General Surgery, University General Hospital of Patras, Rion, Greece.
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, University of Patras Medical School, Rion, Greece.
- Department of Surgery, Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504, Rion, Greece.
| | - Francesk Mulita
- Department of General Surgery, University General Hospital of Patras, Rion, Greece
| | | | - Nikolaos Benetatos
- Department of General Surgery, University General Hospital of Patras, Rion, Greece
| | - Ioannis Maroulis
- Department of General Surgery, University General Hospital of Patras, Rion, Greece
| | - Helen Papadaki
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, University of Patras Medical School, Rion, Greece
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Jan N, Sofi S, Qayoom H, Haq BU, Shabir A, Mir MA. Targeting breast cancer stem cells through retinoids: A new hope for treatment. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2023; 192:104156. [PMID: 37827439 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2023.104156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2023] [Revised: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is a complex and diverse disease accounting for nearly 30% of all cancers diagnosed in females. But unfortunately, patients develop resistance to the existing chemotherapeutic regimen, resulting in approximately 90% treatment failure. With over half a million deaths annually, it is imperative to explore new therapeutic approaches to combat the disease. Within a breast tumor, a small sub-population of heterogeneous cells, with a unique ability of self-renew and differentiation and responsible for tumor formation, initiation, and recurrence are referred to as breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs). These BCSCs have been identified as one of the main contributors to chemoresistance in breast cancer, making them an attractive target for developing novel therapeutic strategies. These cells exhibit surface biomarkers such as CD44+, CD24-/LOW, ALDH, CD133, and CD49f phenotypes. Higher expression of CD44+ and ALDH activity has been associated with the formation of tumors in various cancers. Moreover, the abnormal regulation of signaling pathways, including Hedgehog, Notch, β-catenin, JAK/STAT, and P13K/AKT/mTOR, leads to the formation of cancer stem cells, resulting in the development of tumors. The growing drug resistance in BC is a significant challenge, highlighting the need for new therapeutic strategies to combat this dreadful disease. Retinoids, a large group of synthetic derivatives of vitamin A, have been studied as chemopreventive agents in clinical trials and have been shown to regulate various crucial biological functions including vision, development, inflammation, and metabolism. On a cellular level, the retinoid activity has been well characterized and translated and is known to induce differentiation and apoptosis, which play important roles in the outcome of the transformation of tissues into malignant. Retinoids have been investigated extensively for their use in the treatment and prevention of cancer due to their high receptor-binding affinity to directly modulate gene expression programs. Therefore, in this study, we aim to summarize the current understanding of BCSCs, their biomarkers, and the associated signaling pathways. Retinoids, such as Adapalene, a third-generation retinoid, have shown promising anti-cancer potential and may serve as therapeutic agents to target BCSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nusrat Jan
- Department of Bioresources, School of Biological Sciences, University of Kashmir, Srinagar 190006, India
| | - Shazia Sofi
- Department of Bioresources, School of Biological Sciences, University of Kashmir, Srinagar 190006, India
| | - Hina Qayoom
- Department of Bioresources, School of Biological Sciences, University of Kashmir, Srinagar 190006, India
| | - Burhan Ul Haq
- Department of Bioresources, School of Biological Sciences, University of Kashmir, Srinagar 190006, India
| | - Aisha Shabir
- Department of Bioresources, School of Biological Sciences, University of Kashmir, Srinagar 190006, India
| | - Manzoor Ahmad Mir
- Department of Bioresources, School of Biological Sciences, University of Kashmir, Srinagar 190006, India.
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10
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Ishtiaq A, Nasrullah MA, Khan JS, Malik S, Tareen U, Anees M, Sultan A, Murtaza I. A cohort study investigating the role of Bisphenol A in the molecular pathogenesis of breast cancer. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2023; 149:14565-14575. [PMID: 37580403 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-023-05247-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer is an abnormal division of breast cells. Bisphenol A (BPA), an environmental toxicant, is identified as an emerging risk factor for breast cancer development. However, to the best of our knowledge, no previous study has investigated the BPA levels in breast cancer patients in Pakistan. The present study sought to explore the role of BPA in tumor growth among the Pakistani population. METHODS The levels of BPA were analyzed in the serum samples of breast cancer patients and controls by using HPLC. To elucidate the role of BPA to initiate tumorigenic events in breast tissue different biochemical assays along with expression analysis of tumor markers were performed. RESULTS The level of BPA in the serum samples of breast cancer patients was significantly higher than control. Histological analysis of breast cancer tissue samples revealed distinct subtypes of tumor, such as ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) and invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC). There was a significant increase in ROS level while a significant decrease in the levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) enzymes in malignant breast tissue samples as compared to control tissue samples. We found upregulated expression of p53, ZEB1 and WNT1 genes at mRNA level in malignant breast tissue samples by 17 folds, 328 folds and 35 folds, respectively. p53 protein expression in malignant breast tissue samples was also enhanced at the translational level. CONCLUSION Current findings suggest a relationship between BPA and the progression of breast cancer among the Pakistani population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayesha Ishtiaq
- Signal Transduction Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, Quaid-i-Azam University Islamabad, Islamabad, 45320, Pakistan.
| | - Maryam Anyat Nasrullah
- Department of Biochemistry, Quaid-I-Azam University Islamabad, Islamabad, 45320, Pakistan
| | | | - Sara Malik
- Rawalpindi Medical University, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | - Usman Tareen
- Department of Biochemistry, Quaid-I-Azam University Islamabad, Islamabad, 45320, Pakistan
| | - Mariam Anees
- Department of Biochemistry, Quaid-I-Azam University Islamabad, Islamabad, 45320, Pakistan
| | - Aneesa Sultan
- Department of Biochemistry, Quaid-I-Azam University Islamabad, Islamabad, 45320, Pakistan.
| | - Iram Murtaza
- Signal Transduction Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, Quaid-i-Azam University Islamabad, Islamabad, 45320, Pakistan.
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11
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Ferreira D, Santos-Pereira C, Costa M, Afonso J, Yang S, Hensel J, McAndrews KM, Longatto-Filho A, Fernandes R, Melo JB, Baltazar F, Moreira JN, Kalluri R, Rodrigues LR. Exosomes modified with anti-MEK1 siRNA lead to an effective silencing of triple negative breast cancer cells. BIOMATERIALS ADVANCES 2023; 154:213643. [PMID: 37778291 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2023.213643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2023] [Revised: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a highly heterogenous disease not sensitive to endocrine or HER2 therapy and standardized treatment regimens are still missing. Therefore, development of novel TNBC treatment approaches is of utmost relevance. Herein, the potential of MAPK/ERK downregulation by RNAi-based therapeutics in a panel of mesenchymal stem-like TNBC cell lines was uncovered. Our data revealed that suppression of one of the central nodes of this signaling pathway, MEK1, affects proliferation, migration, and invasion of TNBC cells, that may be explained by the reversion of the epithelial-mesenchymal transition phenotype, which is facilitated by the MMP-2/MMP-9 downregulation. Moreover, an exosome-based system was successfully generated for the siRNA loading (iExoMEK1). Our data suggested absence of modification of the physical properties and general integrity of the iExoMEK1 comparatively to the unmodified counterparts. Such exosome-mediated downregulation of MEK1 led to a tumor regression accompanied by a decrease of angiogenesis using the chick chorioallantoic-membrane model. Our results highlight the potential of the targeting of MAPK/ERK cascade as a promising therapeutic approach against TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Débora Ferreira
- CEB-Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; LABBELS-Associate Laboratory, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Cátia Santos-Pereira
- CEB-Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; LABBELS-Associate Laboratory, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Marta Costa
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), University of Minho, Campus of Gualtar, Braga, Portugal; ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Julieta Afonso
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), University of Minho, Campus of Gualtar, Braga, Portugal; ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Sujuan Yang
- Department of Cancer Biology, Metastasis Research Center, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Janine Hensel
- Department of Cancer Biology, Metastasis Research Center, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Kathleen M McAndrews
- Department of Cancer Biology, Metastasis Research Center, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Adhemar Longatto-Filho
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), University of Minho, Campus of Gualtar, Braga, Portugal; ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal; Molecular Oncology Research Center, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Barretos, São Paulo, Brazil; Laboratory of Medical Investigation (LIM 14), Faculty of Medicine, São Paulo State University, S. Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rui Fernandes
- HEMS-Histology and Electron Microscopy Service, IBMC/I3S, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Joana B Melo
- Cytogenetics and Genomics Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Portugal; Center of Investigation on Environment Genetics and Oncobiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Fátima Baltazar
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), University of Minho, Campus of Gualtar, Braga, Portugal; ICVS/3B's-PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal
| | - João N Moreira
- CNC-Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Faculty of Medicine (Polo 1), Rua Larga, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal; Univ Coimbra-University of Coimbra, CIBB, Faculty of Pharmacy, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Azinhaga de Santa Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Raghu Kalluri
- Department of Cancer Biology, Metastasis Research Center, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77005, USA; School of Bioengineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ligia R Rodrigues
- CEB-Centre of Biological Engineering, University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; LABBELS-Associate Laboratory, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal.
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12
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Yu Y, Zhang Y, Li Z, Dong Y, Huang H, Yang B, Zhao E, Chen Y, Yang L, Lu J, Qiu F. An EMT-related genes signature as a prognostic biomarker for patients with endometrial cancer. BMC Cancer 2023; 23:879. [PMID: 37723477 PMCID: PMC10506329 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-023-11358-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) plays an indispensable role in the development and progression of Endometrial cancer (EC). Nevertheless, little evidence is reported to uncover the functionality and application of EMT-related molecules in the prognosis of EC. This study aims to develop novel molecular markers for prognosis prediction in patients with EC. METHODS RNA sequencing profiles of EC patients obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database were used to screen differential expression genes (DEGs) between tumors and normal tissues. The Cox regression model with the LASSO method was utilized to identify survival-related DEGs and to establish a prognostic signature whose performance was evaluated by Kaplan-Meier curve, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) and calibration curve. Eventually, functional enrichment analysis and cellular experiments were performed to reveal the roles of prognosis-related genes in EC progression. RESULTS A total of 540 EMT-related DEGs in EC were screened, and subsequently a four-gene risk signature comprising SIRT2, SIX1, CDKN2A and PGR was established to predict overall survival of EC. This risk signature could serve as a meaningfully independent indicator for EC prognosis via multivariate Cox regression (HR = 2.002, 95%CI = 1.433-2.798; P < 0.001). The nomogram integrating the risk signature and clinical characteristics exhibited robust validity and performance at predicting EC overall survival indicated by ROC and calibration curve. Functional enrichment analysis revealed that the EMT-related genes risk signature was associated with extracellular matrix organization, mesenchymal development and cellular component morphogenesis, suggesting its possible relevance to epithelial-mesenchymal transition and cancer progression. Functionally, we demonstrated that the silencing of SIX1, SIRT2 and CDKN2A expression could accelerate the migratory and invasive capacities of tumor cells, whereas the downregulation of PGR dramatically inhibited cancer cells migration and invasion. CONCLUSIONS Altogether, a novel four-EMT-related genes signature was a potential biomarker for EC prognosis. These findings might help to ameliorate the individualized prognostication and therapeutic treatment of EC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yonghui Yu
- State Key Lab of Respiratory Disease, Institute for Chemical Carcinogenesis, Collaborative Innovation Center for Environmental Toxicity, School of Public Health, Guangzhou Medical University, 1 Xinzao Road, Xinzao, Panyu District, Guangzhou, 511436, China
| | - Yiwen Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhi Li
- State Key Lab of Respiratory Disease, Institute for Chemical Carcinogenesis, Collaborative Innovation Center for Environmental Toxicity, School of Public Health, Guangzhou Medical University, 1 Xinzao Road, Xinzao, Panyu District, Guangzhou, 511436, China
| | - Yongshun Dong
- State Key Lab of Respiratory Disease, Institute for Chemical Carcinogenesis, Collaborative Innovation Center for Environmental Toxicity, School of Public Health, Guangzhou Medical University, 1 Xinzao Road, Xinzao, Panyu District, Guangzhou, 511436, China
| | - Hongmei Huang
- State Key Lab of Respiratory Disease, Institute for Chemical Carcinogenesis, Collaborative Innovation Center for Environmental Toxicity, School of Public Health, Guangzhou Medical University, 1 Xinzao Road, Xinzao, Panyu District, Guangzhou, 511436, China
| | - Binyao Yang
- Innovation Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Medicine, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Eryong Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yongxiu Chen
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Guangdong Women's and Children's Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Lei Yang
- State Key Lab of Respiratory Disease, Institute for Chemical Carcinogenesis, Collaborative Innovation Center for Environmental Toxicity, School of Public Health, Guangzhou Medical University, 1 Xinzao Road, Xinzao, Panyu District, Guangzhou, 511436, China
| | - Jiachun Lu
- State Key Lab of Respiratory Disease, Institute for Chemical Carcinogenesis, Collaborative Innovation Center for Environmental Toxicity, School of Public Health, Guangzhou Medical University, 1 Xinzao Road, Xinzao, Panyu District, Guangzhou, 511436, China
| | - Fuman Qiu
- State Key Lab of Respiratory Disease, Institute for Chemical Carcinogenesis, Collaborative Innovation Center for Environmental Toxicity, School of Public Health, Guangzhou Medical University, 1 Xinzao Road, Xinzao, Panyu District, Guangzhou, 511436, China.
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13
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Desel I, Jung S, Purcz N, Açil Y, Sproll C, Kleinheinz J, Sielker S. Analysis of Genes Related to Invadopodia Formation and CTTN in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma-A Systematic Gene Expression Analysis. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 45:6927-6940. [PMID: 37623256 PMCID: PMC10453299 DOI: 10.3390/cimb45080437] [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: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Successful treatment for any type of carcinoma largely depends on understanding the patterns of invasion and migration. For oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), these processes are not entirely understood as of now. Invadopodia and podosomes, called invadosomes, play an important role in cancer cell invasion and migration. Previous research has established that cortactin (CTTN) is a major inducer of invadosome formation. However, less is known about the expression patterns of CTTN and other genes related to it or invadopodia formation in OSCC during tumor progression in particular. In this study, gene expression patterns of CTTN and various genes (n = 36) associated with invadopodia formation were analyzed to reveal relevant expression patterns and give a comprehensive overview of them. The genes were analyzed from a whole genome dataset of 83 OSCC samples relating to tumor size, grading, lymph node status, and UICC (Union for Internatioanl Cancer Control). The data revealed significant overexpression of 18 genes, most notably CTTN, SRC (SRC proto-onocogene, non-receptor tyrosine kinase), EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor), SYK (spleen associated tyrosine kinase), WASL (WASP like actin nucleation promotion factor), and ARPC2 (arrestin beta 1) due to their significant correlation with further tumor parameters. This study is one of the first to summarize the expression patterns of CTTN and related genes in a complex group of OSCC samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Immanuel Desel
- Vascular Biology of Oral Structures (VABOS) Research Unit, Department of Cranio-Maxillofacial Surgery, University Hospital Muenster, 48149 Muenster, Germany; (I.D.); (S.J.); (J.K.)
| | - Susanne Jung
- Vascular Biology of Oral Structures (VABOS) Research Unit, Department of Cranio-Maxillofacial Surgery, University Hospital Muenster, 48149 Muenster, Germany; (I.D.); (S.J.); (J.K.)
| | - Nikolai Purcz
- Department of Cranio-Maxillofacial Surgery, University Hospital Kiel, 24105 Kiel, Germany (Y.A.)
| | - Yahya Açil
- Department of Cranio-Maxillofacial Surgery, University Hospital Kiel, 24105 Kiel, Germany (Y.A.)
| | - Christoph Sproll
- Department of Cranio-Maxillofacial Surgery, University Hospital Duesseldorf, 40225 Duesseldorf, Germany
| | - Johannes Kleinheinz
- Vascular Biology of Oral Structures (VABOS) Research Unit, Department of Cranio-Maxillofacial Surgery, University Hospital Muenster, 48149 Muenster, Germany; (I.D.); (S.J.); (J.K.)
| | - Sonja Sielker
- Vascular Biology of Oral Structures (VABOS) Research Unit, Department of Cranio-Maxillofacial Surgery, University Hospital Muenster, 48149 Muenster, Germany; (I.D.); (S.J.); (J.K.)
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14
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Kravitz CJ, Yan Q, Nguyen DX. Epigenetic markers and therapeutic targets for metastasis. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2023; 42:427-443. [PMID: 37286865 PMCID: PMC10595046 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-023-10109-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The last few years have seen an increasing number of discoveries which collectively demonstrate that histone and DNA modifying enzyme modulate different stages of metastasis. Moreover, epigenomic alterations can now be measured at multiple scales of analysis and are detectable in human tumors or liquid biopsies. Malignant cell clones with a proclivity for relapse in certain organs may arise in the primary tumor as a consequence of epigenomic alterations which cause a loss in lineage integrity. These alterations may occur due to genetic aberrations acquired during tumor progression or concomitant to therapeutic response. Moreover, evolution of the stroma can also alter the epigenome of cancer cells. In this review, we highlight current knowledge with a particular emphasis on leveraging chromatin and DNA modifying mechanisms as biomarkers of disseminated disease and as therapeutic targets to treat metastatic cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn J Kravitz
- Department of Pathology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA
| | - Qin Yan
- Department of Pathology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA.
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA.
- Yale Stem Cell Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA.
- Yale Center for Immuno-Oncology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA.
| | - Don X Nguyen
- Department of Pathology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA.
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA.
- Yale Stem Cell Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA.
- Department of Internal Medicine (Section of Medical Oncology), Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520, USA.
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15
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Wu Y, Shum HCE, Wu K, Vadgama J. From Interaction to Intervention: How Mesenchymal Stem Cells Affect and Target Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11041182. [PMID: 37189800 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11041182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) lacks estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor, and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 expressions, making targeted therapies ineffective. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have emerged as a promising approach for TNBC treatment by modulating the tumor microenvironment (TME) and interacting with cancer cells. This review aims to comprehensively overview the role of MSCs in TNBC treatment, including their mechanisms of action and application strategies. We analyze the interactions between MSC and TNBC cells, including the impact of MSCs on TNBC cell proliferation, migration, invasion, metastasis, angiogenesis, and drug resistance, along with the signaling pathways and molecular mechanisms involved. We also explore the impact of MSCs on other components of the TME, such as immune and stromal cells, and the underlying mechanisms. The review discusses the application strategies of MSCs in TNBC treatment, including their use as cell or drug carriers and the advantages and limitations of different types and sources of MSCs in terms of safety and efficacy. Finally, we discuss the challenges and prospects of MSCs in TNBC treatment and propose potential solutions or improvement methods. Overall, this review provides valuable insights into the potential of MSCs as a novel therapeutic approach for TNBC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Wu
- Division of Cancer Research and Training, Department of Internal Medicine, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, David Geffen UCLA School of Medicine and UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Hang Chee Erin Shum
- Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ke Wu
- Division of Cancer Research and Training, Department of Internal Medicine, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, David Geffen UCLA School of Medicine and UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Jaydutt Vadgama
- Division of Cancer Research and Training, Department of Internal Medicine, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, David Geffen UCLA School of Medicine and UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
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16
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Henriet E, Knutsdottir H, Grasset EM, Dunworth M, Haynes M, Bader JS, Ewald AJ. Triple negative breast tumors contain heterogeneous cancer cells expressing distinct KRAS-dependent collective and disseminative invasion programs. Oncogene 2023; 42:737-747. [PMID: 36604566 PMCID: PMC10760065 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-022-02586-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Inter-patient and intra-tumoral heterogeneity complicate the identification of predictive biomarkers and effective treatments for basal triple negative breast cancer (b-TNBC). Invasion is the initiating event in metastasis and can occur by both collective and single-cell mechanisms. We cultured primary organoids from a b-TNBC genetically engineered mouse model in 3D collagen gels to characterize their invasive behavior. We observed that organoids from the same tumor presented different phenotypes that we classified as non-invasive, collective and disseminative. To identify molecular regulators driving these invasive phenotypes, we developed a workflow to isolate individual organoids from the collagen gels based on invasive morphology and perform RNA sequencing. We next tested the requirement of differentially regulated genes for invasion using shRNA knock-down. Strikingly, KRAS was required for both collective and disseminative phenotypes. We then performed a drug screen targeting signaling nodes upstream and downstream of KRAS. We found that inhibition of EGFR, MAPK/ERK, or PI3K/AKT signaling reduced invasion. Of these, ERK inhibition was striking for its ability to potently inhibit collective invasion and dissemination. We conclude that different cancer cells in the same b-TNBC tumor can express different metastatic molecular programs and identified KRAS and ERK as essential regulators of collective and single cell dissemination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elodie Henriet
- Department of Cell Biology, Center for Cell Dynamics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Hildur Knutsdottir
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Eloise M Grasset
- Department of Cell Biology, Center for Cell Dynamics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Matthew Dunworth
- Department of Cell Biology, Center for Cell Dynamics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Meagan Haynes
- Department of Cell Biology, Center for Cell Dynamics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Joel S Bader
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Andrew J Ewald
- Department of Cell Biology, Center for Cell Dynamics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
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17
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Pape J, Micalet A, Alsheikh W, Ezbakh N, Virjee RI, Al Hosni R, Moeendarbary E, Cheema U. Biophysical Parameters Can Induce Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Phenotypic and Genotypic Changes in HT-29 Cells: A Preliminary Study. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:3956. [PMID: 36835368 PMCID: PMC9962772 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) in cancer is the process described where cancer epithelial cells acquire mesenchymal properties which can lead to enhanced invasiveness. Three-dimensional cancer models often lack the relevant and biomimetic microenvironment parameters appropriate to the native tumour microenvironment thought to drive EMT. In this study, HT-29 epithelial colorectal cells were cultivated in different oxygen and collagen concentrations to investigate how these biophysical parameters influenced invasion patterns and EMT. Colorectal HT-29 cells were grown in physiological hypoxia (5% O2) and normoxia (21% O2) in 2D, 3D soft (60 Pa), and 3D stiff (4 kPa) collagen matrices. Physiological hypoxia was sufficient to trigger expression of markers of EMT in the HT-29 cells in 2D by day 7. This is in contrast to a control breast cancer cell line, MDA-MB-231, which expresses a mesenchymal phenotype regardless of the oxygen concentration. In 3D, HT-29 cells invaded more extensively in a stiff matrix environment with corresponding increases in the invasive genes MMP2 and RAE1. This demonstrates that the physiological environment can directly impact HT-29 cells in terms of EMT marker expression and invasion, compared to an established cell line, MDA-MB-231, which has already undergone EMT. This study highlights the importance of the biophysical microenvironment to cancer epithelial cells and how these factors can direct cell behaviour. In particular, that stiffness of the 3D matrix drives greater invasion in HT-29 cells regardless of hypoxia. It is also pertinent that some cell lines (already having undergone EMT) are not as sensitive to the biophysical features of their microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith Pape
- Centre for 3D Models of Health and Disease, Department of Targeted Intervention, Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, Charles Bell House, 43-45 Foley Street, London W1W 7TS, UK
| | - Auxtine Micalet
- Centre for 3D Models of Health and Disease, Department of Targeted Intervention, Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, Charles Bell House, 43-45 Foley Street, London W1W 7TS, UK
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Wissal Alsheikh
- Centre for 3D Models of Health and Disease, Department of Targeted Intervention, Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, Charles Bell House, 43-45 Foley Street, London W1W 7TS, UK
| | - Nadia Ezbakh
- Centre for 3D Models of Health and Disease, Department of Targeted Intervention, Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, Charles Bell House, 43-45 Foley Street, London W1W 7TS, UK
| | - Rania-Iman Virjee
- Centre for 3D Models of Health and Disease, Department of Targeted Intervention, Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, Charles Bell House, 43-45 Foley Street, London W1W 7TS, UK
| | - Rawiya Al Hosni
- Centre for 3D Models of Health and Disease, Department of Targeted Intervention, Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, Charles Bell House, 43-45 Foley Street, London W1W 7TS, UK
| | - Emad Moeendarbary
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Umber Cheema
- Centre for 3D Models of Health and Disease, Department of Targeted Intervention, Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, Charles Bell House, 43-45 Foley Street, London W1W 7TS, UK
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18
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Mesmar J, Abdallah R, Hamade K, Baydoun S, Al-Thani N, Shaito A, Maresca M, Badran A, Baydoun E. Ethanolic extract of Origanum syriacum L. leaves exhibits potent anti-breast cancer potential and robust antioxidant properties. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:994025. [PMID: 36299882 PMCID: PMC9589507 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.994025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Breast cancer (BC) is the second most common cancer overall. In women, BC is the most prevalent cancer and the leading cause of cancer-related mortality. Triple-negative BC (TNBC) is the most aggressive BC, being resistant to hormonal and targeted therapies. Hypothesis/Purpose: The medicinal plant Origanum syriacum L. is a shrubby plant rich in bioactive compounds and widely used in traditional medicine to treat various diseases. However, its therapeutic potential against BC remains poorly investigated. In the present study, we screened the phytochemical content of an ethanolic extract of O. syriacum (OSEE) and investigated its anticancer effects and possible underlying mechanisms of action against the aggressive and highly metastatic human TNBC cell line MDA-MB-231. Methods: MTT, trans-well migration, and scratch assays were used to assess cell viability, invasion, or migration, respectively. Antioxidant potential was evaluated in vitro using the DPPH radical-scavenging assay and levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) were assessed in cells in culture using DHE staining. Aggregation assays were used to determine cell-cell adhesion. Flow cytometry was used to analyze cell cycle progression. Protein levels of markers of apoptosis (BCL-2, pro-Caspase3, p53), proliferation (p21, Ki67), cell migration, invasion, or adhesion (FAK, E-cadherin), angiogenesis (iNOS), and cell signaling (STAT3, p38) were determined by immunoblotting. A chorioallantoic Membrane (CAM) assay evaluated in ovo angiogenesis. Results: We demonstrated that OSEE had potent radical scavenging activity in vitro and induced the generation of ROS in MDA-MB-231 cells, especially at higher OSEE concentrations. Non-cytotoxic concentrations of OSEE attenuated cell proliferation and induced G0/G1 cell cycle arrest, which was associated with phosphorylation of p38 MAPK, an increase in the levels of tumor suppressor protein p21, and a decrease of proliferation marker protein Ki67. Additionally, only higher concentrations of OSEE were able to attenuate inhibition of proliferation induced by the ROS scavenger N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), indicating that the anti-proliferative effects of OSEE could be ROS-dependent. OSEE stimulated apoptosis and its effector Caspase-3 in MDA-MB-231 cells, in correlation with activation of the STAT3/p53 pathway. Furthermore, the extract reduced the migration and invasive properties of MDA-MB-231 cells through the deactivation of focal adhesion kinase (FAK). OSEE also reduced the production of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and inhibited in ovo angiogenesis. Conclusion: Our findings reveal that OSEE is a rich source of phytochemicals and has robust anti-breast cancer properties that significantly attenuate the malignant phenotype of MD-MB-231 cells, suggesting that O. syriacum may not only act as a rich source of potential TNBC therapeutics but may also provide new avenues for the design of novel TNBC drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joelle Mesmar
- Department of Biology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rola Abdallah
- Department of Biology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Kamar Hamade
- UMRT INRE 1158 BioEcoAgro, Laboratorie BIOPI, University of Picardie Jules Verne, Amiens, France
| | - Serine Baydoun
- Breast Imaging Section, Imaging Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Najlaa Al-Thani
- Research and Development Department, Barzan Holdings, Doha, Qatar
| | - Abdullah Shaito
- Biomedical Research Center, College of Medicine, and Department of Biomedical Sciences at College of Health Sciences, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
- *Correspondence: Abdullah Shaito, ; Marc Maresca, ; Elias Baydoun,
| | - Marc Maresca
- Aix-Marseille University, CNRS, Centrale Marseille, iSm2, Marseille, France
- *Correspondence: Abdullah Shaito, ; Marc Maresca, ; Elias Baydoun,
| | - Adnan Badran
- Department of Nutrition, University of Petra, Amman, Jordan
| | - Elias Baydoun
- Department of Biology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
- *Correspondence: Abdullah Shaito, ; Marc Maresca, ; Elias Baydoun,
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19
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Huang Y, Hong W, Wei X. The molecular mechanisms and therapeutic strategies of EMT in tumor progression and metastasis. J Hematol Oncol 2022; 15:129. [PMID: 36076302 PMCID: PMC9461252 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-022-01347-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 193] [Impact Index Per Article: 96.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) is an essential process in normal embryonic development and tissue regeneration. However, aberrant reactivation of EMT is associated with malignant properties of tumor cells during cancer progression and metastasis, including promoted migration and invasiveness, increased tumor stemness, and enhanced resistance to chemotherapy and immunotherapy. EMT is tightly regulated by a complex network which is orchestrated with several intrinsic and extrinsic factors, including multiple transcription factors, post-translational control, epigenetic modifications, and noncoding RNA-mediated regulation. In this review, we described the molecular mechanisms, signaling pathways, and the stages of tumorigenesis involved in the EMT process and discussed the dynamic non-binary process of EMT and its role in tumor metastasis. Finally, we summarized the challenges of chemotherapy and immunotherapy in EMT and proposed strategies for tumor therapy targeting EMT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhe Huang
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Weiqi Hong
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiawei Wei
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Drug Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
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20
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Chang YH, Vuong CK, Ngo NH, Yamashita T, Ye X, Futamura Y, Fukushige M, Obata-Yasuoka M, Hamada H, Osaka M, Hiramatsu Y, Sakurai T, Ohneda O. Extracellular vesicles derived from Wharton's Jelly mesenchymal stem cells inhibit the tumor environment via the miR-125b/HIF1α signaling pathway. Sci Rep 2022; 12:13550. [PMID: 35941273 PMCID: PMC9359975 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-17767-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is associated with worse outcomes and results in high mortality; therefore, great efforts are required to find effective treatment. In the present study, we suggested a novel strategy to treat TNBC using mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-derived extracellular vesicles (EV) to transform the behaviors and cellular communication of TNBC cells (BCC) with other non-cancer cells related to tumorigenesis and metastasis. Our data showed that, BCC after being internalized with EV derived from Wharton’s Jelly MSC (WJ-EV) showed the impaired proliferation, stemness properties, tumorigenesis and metastasis under hypoxic conditions. Moreover, these inhibitory effects may be involved in the transfer of miRNA-125b from WJ-EV to BCC, which downregulated the expression of HIF1α and target genes related to proliferation, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and angiogenesis. Of note, WJ-EV-internalized BCC (wBCC) showed transformed behaviors that attenuated the in vivo development and metastatic ability of TNBC, the angiogenic abilities of endothelial cells and endothelial progenitor cells and the generation of cancer-associated fibroblasts from MSC. Furthermore, wBCC generated a new EV with modified functions that contributed to the inhibitory effects on tumorigenesis and metastasis of TNBC. Taken together, our findings suggested that WJ-EV treatment is a promising therapy that results in the generation of wBCC to interrupt the cellular crosstalk in the tumor environment and inhibit the tumor progression in TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Hsuan Chang
- Ph.D. Program in Humanics, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8575, Japan.,Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Science, Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Biology, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8575, Japan
| | - Cat-Khanh Vuong
- Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Science, Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Biology, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8575, Japan
| | - Nhat-Hoang Ngo
- Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Science, Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Biology, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8575, Japan
| | - Toshiharu Yamashita
- Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Science, Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Biology, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8575, Japan
| | - Xiucai Ye
- Department of Computer Science, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8575, Japan
| | - Yasunori Futamura
- Department of Computer Science, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8575, Japan
| | - Mizuho Fukushige
- Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Science, Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Biology, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8575, Japan
| | - Mana Obata-Yasuoka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Hiromi Hamada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Motoo Osaka
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Yuji Hiramatsu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Sakurai
- Ph.D. Program in Humanics, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8575, Japan.,Department of Computer Science, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8575, Japan
| | - Osamu Ohneda
- Ph.D. Program in Humanics, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8575, Japan. .,Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Science, Laboratory of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Biology, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8575, Japan.
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21
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Grasset EM, Dunworth M, Sharma G, Loth M, Tandurella J, Cimino-Mathews A, Gentz M, Bracht S, Haynes M, Fertig EJ, Ewald AJ. Triple-negative breast cancer metastasis involves complex epithelial-mesenchymal transition dynamics and requires vimentin. Sci Transl Med 2022; 14:eabn7571. [PMID: 35921474 PMCID: PMC9801390 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.abn7571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subtype associated with early metastatic recurrence and worse patient outcomes. TNBC tumors express molecular markers of the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), but its requirement during spontaneous TNBC metastasis in vivo remains incompletely understood. We demonstrated that spontaneous TNBC tumors from a genetically engineered mouse model (GEMM), multiple patient-derived xenografts, and archival patient samples exhibited large populations in vivo of hybrid E/M cells that lead invasion ex vivo while expressing both epithelial and mesenchymal characteristics. The mesenchymal marker vimentin promoted invasion and repressed metastatic outgrowth. We next tested the requirement for five EMT transcription factors and observed distinct patterns of utilization during invasion and colony formation. These differences suggested a sequential activation of multiple EMT molecular programs during the metastatic cascade. Consistent with this model, our longitudinal single-cell RNA analysis detected three different EMT-related molecular patterns. We observed cancer cells progressing from epithelial to hybrid E/M and strongly mesenchymal patterns during invasion and from epithelial to a hybrid E/M pattern during colony formation. We next investigated the relative epithelial versus mesenchymal state of cancer cells in both GEMM and patient metastases. In both contexts, we observed heterogeneity between and within metastases in the same individual. We observed a complex spectrum of epithelial, hybrid E/M, and mesenchymal cell states within metastases, suggesting that there are multiple successful molecular strategies for distant organ colonization. Together, our results demonstrate an important and complex role for EMT programs during TNBC metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eloïse M. Grasset
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Matthew Dunworth
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Gaurav Sharma
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Melanie Loth
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Joseph Tandurella
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Ashley Cimino-Mathews
- Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA,Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Melissa Gentz
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Sydney Bracht
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Meagan Haynes
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Elana J. Fertig
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA,Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA,Department of Applied Mathematics and Statistics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA,Convergence Institute, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Andrew J. Ewald
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA,Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA,Department of Oncology, Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA,Convergence Institute, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
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22
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Dai T, Liu Y, Cao R, Cao J. CBX7 regulates metastasis of basal-like breast cancer through Twist1/EphA2 pathway. Transl Oncol 2022; 24:101468. [PMID: 35843065 PMCID: PMC9294549 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2022.101468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022] Open
Abstract
CBX7 was down-regulated, while twist and EphA2 were up-regulated in BLBC. EphA2 or twist silencing inhibited BLBC cell proliferation and metastasis. Twist bond to EphA2 and increased the expression of EphA2. CBX7 blocked the binding of twist to EphA2 and inhibited EphA2 expression. CBX7 regulated BLBC growth and metastasis via Twist/EphA2 axis.
Background Basal-like breast cancer (BLBC) is an important subtype of breast cancer. Twist1 is a key transcription factor in BLBC metastasis, which serves a key role in tumorigenesis. The potential mechanism of Twist1 in BLBC remains to be elucidated. Here, we explored the role and molecular mechanism of Twist1 in BLBC. Methods The levels of CBX7, Twist1 and EphA2 in BLBC tissues and cells were determined by Western blot. ChIP and dual-luciferase reporter assays confirmed the interaction between CBX7, Twist1 and EphA2 promoter. The cellular functions were analyzed by CCK-8, colony formation, wound healing and Transwell assays. Expression of EMT related proteins was analyzed by Western blot. IHC measured the expression of CBX7, Twist1 and EphA2 in tumor tissues. Results CBX7 was down-regulated in BLBC tissues and cells, whereas Twist1 and EphA2 were up-regulated. Twist1 silencing inhibited the cell migration, invasion and cancer metastasis of BLBC through targeting EphA2 and regulating EphA2 expression. Additionally, CBX7 blocked the binding of Twist1 to EphA2 promoter and inhibited EphA2 expression and suppressed BLBC growth and metastasis via Twist1/EphA2 axis. Conclusion CBX7 suppresses BLBC growth and metastasis through Twist1/EphA2 pathway. Our study may provide evidence and new therapeutic targets for the comprehensive treatment of BLBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Dai
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Changsha 410013 Hunan Province, PR China
| | - Yiqi Liu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, PR China
| | - Renxian Cao
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, PR China
| | - Jingying Cao
- Department of Medicine Clinical Laboratory, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha 410013 Hunan Province, PR China.
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23
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AlKahlout A, Fardoun M, Mesmar J, Abdallah R, Badran A, Nasser SA, Baydoun S, Kobeissy F, Shaito A, Iratni R, Muhammad K, Baydoun E, Eid AH. Origanum syriacum L. Attenuates the Malignant Phenotype of MDA-MB231 Breast Cancer Cells. Front Oncol 2022; 12:922196. [PMID: 35847867 PMCID: PMC9280492 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.922196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women. Among breast cancer types, triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most aggressive, and is resistant to hormonal and chemotherapeutic treatments. As such, alternative approaches that may provide some benefit in fighting this debilitating pathology are critically needed; hence the utilization of herbal medicine. Origanum syriacum L., one of the most regularly consumed plants in the Mediterranean region, exhibits antiproliferative effect on several cancer cell lines. However, whether this herb modulates the malignant phenotype of TNBC remains poorly investigated. Here, we show that in MDA-MB-231, a TNBC cell line, Origanum syriacum L. aqueous extract (OSE) inhibited cellular viability, induced autophagy determined by the accumulation of lipidized LC3 II, and triggered apoptosis. We also show that OSE significantly promoted homotypic cell-cell adhesion while it decreased cellular migration, adhesion to fibronectin, and invasion of MDA-MB-231 cells. This was supported by decreased activity of focal adhesion kinase (FAK), reduced α2 integrin expression, and downregulation of secreted PgE2, MMP2 and MMP-9, in OSE-treated cells. Finally, we also show that OSE significantly inhibited angiogenesis and downregulated the level of nitric oxide (NO) production. Our findings demonstrate the ability of OSE to attenuate the malignant phenotype of the MDA-MB-231 cells, thus presenting Origanum syriacum L. as a promising potential source for therapeutic compounds for TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Manal Fardoun
- Department of Biology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Joelle Mesmar
- Department of Biology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rola Abdallah
- Department of Biology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Adnan Badran
- Department of Basic Sciences, University of Petra, Amman, Jordan
| | - Suzanne A. Nasser
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Beirut Arab University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Serine Baydoun
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Firas Kobeissy
- Program for Neurotrauma, Neuroproteomics & Biomarkers Research, Departments of Emergency Medicine, Psychiatry, Neuroscience and Chemistry, University of Florida, Gainseville, FL, United States
| | | | - Rabah Iratni
- Department of Biology, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Khalid Muhammad
- Department of Biology, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Elias Baydoun
- Department of Biology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ali H. Eid
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
- *Correspondence: Ali H. Eid,
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24
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Chen X, Yang M, Yin J, Li P, Zeng S, Zheng G, He Z, Liu H, Wang Q, Zhang F, Chen D. Tumor-associated macrophages promote epithelial-mesenchymal transition and the cancer stem cell properties in triple-negative breast cancer through CCL2/AKT/β-catenin signaling. Cell Commun Signal 2022; 20:92. [PMID: 35715860 PMCID: PMC9205034 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-022-00888-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a highly aggressive subtype of breast cancer with poor prognosis and limited treatment. As a major component of the tumor microenvironment, tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) play an important role in facilitating the aggressive behavior of TNBC. This study aimed to explore the novel mechanism of TAMs in the regulation of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and cancer stem cell (CSC) properties in TNBC. METHODS Expression of the M2-like macrophage marker CD163 was evaluated by immunohistochemistry in human breast cancer tissues. The phenotype of M2 macrophages polarized from Tohoku-Hospital-Pediatrics-1 (THP1) cells was verified by flow cytometry. Transwell assays, wound healing assays, western blotting, flow cytometry, ELISA, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), luciferase reporter gene assays, and immunofluorescence assays were conducted to investigate the mechanism by which TAMs regulate EMT and CSC properties in BT549 and HCC1937 cells. RESULTS Clinically, we observed a high infiltration of M2-like tumor-associated macrophages in TNBC tissues and confirmed that TAMs were associated with unfavorable prognosis in TNBC patients. Moreover, we found that conditioned medium from M2 macrophages (M2-CM) markedly promoted EMT and CSC properties in BT549 and HCC1937 cells. Mechanistically, we demonstrated that chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 2 (CCL2) secretion by TAMs activated Akt signaling, which in turn increased the expression and nuclear localization of β-catenin. Furthermore, β-catenin knockdown reversed TAM-induced EMT and CSC properties. CONCLUSIONS This study provides a novel mechanism by which TAMs promote EMT and enhance CSC properties in TNBC via activation of CCL2/AKT/β-catenin signaling, which may offer new strategies for the diagnosis and treatment of TNBC. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangzhou Chen
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of "Translational Medicine on Malignant Tumor Treatment", Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, No.78 Hengzhigang Road, Guangzhou, 510095, Guangdong, China
| | - Mingqiang Yang
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of "Translational Medicine on Malignant Tumor Treatment", Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, No.78 Hengzhigang Road, Guangzhou, 510095, Guangdong, China
| | - Jiang Yin
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of "Translational Medicine on Malignant Tumor Treatment", Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, No.78 Hengzhigang Road, Guangzhou, 510095, Guangdong, China
| | - Pan Li
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of "Translational Medicine on Malignant Tumor Treatment", Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, No.78 Hengzhigang Road, Guangzhou, 510095, Guangdong, China
| | - Shanshan Zeng
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of "Translational Medicine on Malignant Tumor Treatment", Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, No.78 Hengzhigang Road, Guangzhou, 510095, Guangdong, China
| | - Guopei Zheng
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of "Translational Medicine on Malignant Tumor Treatment", Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, No.78 Hengzhigang Road, Guangzhou, 510095, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhimin He
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of "Translational Medicine on Malignant Tumor Treatment", Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, No.78 Hengzhigang Road, Guangzhou, 510095, Guangdong, China
| | - Hao Liu
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of "Translational Medicine on Malignant Tumor Treatment", Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, No.78 Hengzhigang Road, Guangzhou, 510095, Guangdong, China
| | - Qian Wang
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of "Translational Medicine on Malignant Tumor Treatment", Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, No.78 Hengzhigang Road, Guangzhou, 510095, Guangdong, China.
| | - Fan Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, No.99 Zhangzhidong Road, Wuhan, 430000, Hubei, China.
| | - Danyang Chen
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of "Translational Medicine on Malignant Tumor Treatment", Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute of Guangzhou Medical University, No.78 Hengzhigang Road, Guangzhou, 510095, Guangdong, China.
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25
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Association of ZEB1 and Vimentin with poor prognosis in metaplastic breast cancer. Ann Diagn Pathol 2022; 59:151954. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anndiagpath.2022.151954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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26
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Transcriptional and post-transcriptional control of epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity: why so many regulators? Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:182. [PMID: 35278142 PMCID: PMC8918127 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04199-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The dynamic transition between epithelial-like and mesenchymal-like cell states has been a focus for extensive investigation for decades, reflective of the importance of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) through development, in the adult, and the contributing role EMT has to pathologies including metastasis and fibrosis. Not surprisingly, regulation of the complex genetic networks that underlie EMT have been attributed to multiple transcription factors and microRNAs. What is surprising, however, are the sheer number of different regulators (hundreds of transcription factors and microRNAs) for which critical roles have been described. This review seeks not to collate these studies, but to provide a perspective on the fundamental question of whether it is really feasible that so many regulators play important roles and if so, what does this tell us about EMT and more generally, the genetic machinery that controls complex biological processes.
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27
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Marqués M, Sorolla MA, Urdanibia I, Parisi E, Hidalgo I, Morales S, Salud A, Sorolla A. Are Transcription Factors Plausible Oncotargets for Triple Negative Breast Cancers? Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14051101. [PMID: 35267409 PMCID: PMC8909618 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14051101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Triple negative breast cancer is a type of breast cancer that does not have a selective and effective therapy. It is known that this cancer possesses high abundance of certain proteins called transcription factors, which are essential for their growth. However, inhibiting transcription factors is very difficult with common therapeutics due to their inaccessibility inside the cell and their molecular structure. In this work, we identified the most important transcription factors for the growth of triple negative breast cancers, and that can predict worse clinical outcome. Moreover, we described different strategies that have been utilised to inhibit them. A successful inhibition of these transcription factors could reduce the mortality and convalescence associated with triple negative breast cancers. Abstract Breast cancer (BC) is the most diagnosed cancer worldwide and one of the main causes of cancer deaths. BC is a heterogeneous disease composed of different BC intrinsic subtypes such as triple-negative BC (TNBC), which is one of the most aggressive subtypes and which lacks a targeted therapy. Recent comprehensive analyses across cell types and cancer types have outlined a vast network of protein–protein associations between transcription factors (TFs). Not surprisingly, protein–protein networks central to oncogenesis and disease progression are highly altered during TNBC pathogenesis and are responsible for the activation of oncogenic programs, such as uncontrollable proliferation, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and stemness. From the therapeutic viewpoint, inhibiting the interactions between TFs represents a very significant challenge, as the contact surfaces of TFs are relatively large and featureless. However, promising tools have emerged to offer a solution to the targeting problem. At the clinical level, some TF possess diagnostic and prognostic value in TNBC. In this review, we outline the recent advances in TFs relevant to TNBC growth and progression. Moreover, we highlight different targeting approaches to inhibit these TFs. Furthermore, the validity of such TFs as clinical biomarkers has been explored. Finally, we discuss how research is likely to evolve in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Marqués
- Research Group of Cancer Biomarkers, Lleida Institute for Biomedical Research Dr. Pifarré Foundation (IRBLleida), Av. Alcalde Rovira Roure, 80, 25198 Lleida, Spain; (M.M.); (M.A.S.); (I.U.); (E.P.); (I.H.); (S.M.); (A.S.)
- Department of Medicine, University of Lleida, Av. Alcalde Rovira Roure, 80, 25198 Lleida, Spain
| | - Maria Alba Sorolla
- Research Group of Cancer Biomarkers, Lleida Institute for Biomedical Research Dr. Pifarré Foundation (IRBLleida), Av. Alcalde Rovira Roure, 80, 25198 Lleida, Spain; (M.M.); (M.A.S.); (I.U.); (E.P.); (I.H.); (S.M.); (A.S.)
| | - Izaskun Urdanibia
- Research Group of Cancer Biomarkers, Lleida Institute for Biomedical Research Dr. Pifarré Foundation (IRBLleida), Av. Alcalde Rovira Roure, 80, 25198 Lleida, Spain; (M.M.); (M.A.S.); (I.U.); (E.P.); (I.H.); (S.M.); (A.S.)
| | - Eva Parisi
- Research Group of Cancer Biomarkers, Lleida Institute for Biomedical Research Dr. Pifarré Foundation (IRBLleida), Av. Alcalde Rovira Roure, 80, 25198 Lleida, Spain; (M.M.); (M.A.S.); (I.U.); (E.P.); (I.H.); (S.M.); (A.S.)
| | - Iván Hidalgo
- Research Group of Cancer Biomarkers, Lleida Institute for Biomedical Research Dr. Pifarré Foundation (IRBLleida), Av. Alcalde Rovira Roure, 80, 25198 Lleida, Spain; (M.M.); (M.A.S.); (I.U.); (E.P.); (I.H.); (S.M.); (A.S.)
- Department of Medicine, University of Lleida, Av. Alcalde Rovira Roure, 80, 25198 Lleida, Spain
| | - Serafín Morales
- Research Group of Cancer Biomarkers, Lleida Institute for Biomedical Research Dr. Pifarré Foundation (IRBLleida), Av. Alcalde Rovira Roure, 80, 25198 Lleida, Spain; (M.M.); (M.A.S.); (I.U.); (E.P.); (I.H.); (S.M.); (A.S.)
- Department of Medical Oncology, Arnau de Vilanova University Hospital (HUAV), Av. Alcalde Rovira Roure, 80, 25198 Lleida, Spain
| | - Antonieta Salud
- Research Group of Cancer Biomarkers, Lleida Institute for Biomedical Research Dr. Pifarré Foundation (IRBLleida), Av. Alcalde Rovira Roure, 80, 25198 Lleida, Spain; (M.M.); (M.A.S.); (I.U.); (E.P.); (I.H.); (S.M.); (A.S.)
- Department of Medicine, University of Lleida, Av. Alcalde Rovira Roure, 80, 25198 Lleida, Spain
- Department of Medical Oncology, Arnau de Vilanova University Hospital (HUAV), Av. Alcalde Rovira Roure, 80, 25198 Lleida, Spain
| | - Anabel Sorolla
- Research Group of Cancer Biomarkers, Lleida Institute for Biomedical Research Dr. Pifarré Foundation (IRBLleida), Av. Alcalde Rovira Roure, 80, 25198 Lleida, Spain; (M.M.); (M.A.S.); (I.U.); (E.P.); (I.H.); (S.M.); (A.S.)
- Correspondence:
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Normal and Neoplastic Growth Suppression by the Extended Myc Network. Cells 2022; 11:cells11040747. [PMID: 35203395 PMCID: PMC8870482 DOI: 10.3390/cells11040747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Among the first discovered and most prominent cellular oncogenes is MYC, which encodes a bHLH-ZIP transcription factor (Myc) that both activates and suppresses numerous genes involved in proliferation, energy production, metabolism and translation. Myc belongs to a small group of bHLH-ZIP transcriptional regulators (the Myc Network) that includes its obligate heterodimerization partner Max and six "Mxd proteins" (Mxd1-4, Mnt and Mga), each of which heterodimerizes with Max and largely opposes Myc's functions. More recently, a second group of bHLH-ZIP proteins (the Mlx Network) has emerged that bears many parallels with the Myc Network. It is comprised of the Myc-like factors ChREBP and MondoA, which, in association with the Max-like member Mlx, regulate smaller and more functionally restricted repertoires of target genes, some of which are shared with Myc. Opposing ChREBP and MondoA are heterodimers comprised of Mlx and Mxd1, Mxd4 and Mnt, which also structurally and operationally link the two Networks. We discuss here the functions of these "Extended Myc Network" members, with particular emphasis on their roles in suppressing normal and neoplastic growth. These roles are complex due to the temporal- and tissue-restricted expression of Extended Myc Network proteins in normal cells, their regulation of both common and unique target genes and, in some cases, their functional redundancy.
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Zhang Y, Yu Y, Su X, Lu Y. HOXD8 inhibits the proliferation and migration of triple-negative breast cancer cells and induces apoptosis in them through regulation of AKT/mTOR pathway. Reprod Biol 2021; 21:100544. [PMID: 34454307 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2021.100544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Revised: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
HOXD8 (Homeobox D8) functions as an apoptotic inducer to suppress tumor progression. However, the role of HOXD8 in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) has not been fully understood. Firstly, HOXD8 was found to be reduced in TNBC tissues based on the TCGA samples through Ualcan (http://ualcan.path.uab.edu/analysis.html) prediction. Moreover, data from qRT-PCR and western blot confirmed the lower expression of HOXD8 in the TNBC tissues or cells than that in paracancerous tissues or human mammary epithelial cell line (MCF10A), respectively. Secondly, pcDNA-mediated over-expression of HOXD8 were conducted in TNBC cells, and the gain-of functional assays showed that over-expression of HOXD8 promoted TNBC cell progression with repressed cell apoptosis and induced proliferation, migration and invasion. Moreover, xenografted mouse model was constructed by injection of tumor cell line with stable over-expression of HOXD8 to assess the in vivo tumor growth, and the results revealed that over-expression of HOXD8 inhibited tumor growth. Lastly, our results showed that AKT and mTOR phosphorylation were repressed by HOXD8 over-expression in TNBC cells. In conclusion, HOXD8 functioned as an apoptotic inducer to suppress TNBC cell growth and progression by inhibition of AKT/mTOR pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yixin Zhang
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, the Affiliated Peoples Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo City, Zhejiang Province, 315040, China
| | - Yu Yu
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, the Affiliated Peoples Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo City, Zhejiang Province, 315040, China
| | - Xiaobao Su
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, the Affiliated Peoples Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo City, Zhejiang Province, 315040, China
| | - Yuqin Lu
- Department of Nail Breast Surgery, Huai'an Second People's Hospital, Huai'an City, Jiangsu Province, 223002, China.
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Morelli MB, Amantini C, Rossi de Vermandois JA, Gubbiotti M, Giannantoni A, Mearini E, Maggi F, Nabissi M, Marinelli O, Santoni M, Cimadamore A, Montironi R, Santoni G. Correlation between High PD-L1 and EMT/Invasive Genes Expression and Reduced Recurrence-Free Survival in Blood-Circulating Tumor Cells from Patients with Non-Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13235989. [PMID: 34885101 PMCID: PMC8656875 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13235989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND PD-L1 represents a crucial immune checkpoint molecule in the tumor microenvironment, identified as a key target for cancer immunotherapy. A correlation between PD-L1 and EMT-related genes expression in various human cancers has been suggested. METHODS By ScreenCell filtration, digital droplet PCR and confocal microscopy analysis, we aimed to investigate the expression of PD-L1 and EMT/invasive genes (TWIST1, ZEB1, VIMENTIN, TIMP2) in circulating tumor cells (CTCs) collected from the blood of non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) patients, assessing the prognostic value of these biomarkers in the disease. Welchs' test and Mann-Whitney U test, correlation index, Kaplan-Meier, Univariate and Multivariate Cox hazard proportional analysis were used. RESULTS Higher PD-L1, TIMP2 and VIM mRNA levels were found in pT1 compared to pTa NMIBC. As evaluated by Kaplan-Meier and Univariate and Multivariate Cox analysis, enhancement of PD-L1, TWIST1 and TIMP2 expression reduces the recurrent free survival in NMIBC patients. CONCLUSIONS High PD-L1, TWIST1 and TIMP2 mRNAs mark the recurrent-NMIBC patients and by reducing the RFS represent negative prognostic biomarkers in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Beatrice Morelli
- School of Pharmacy, Section of Experimental Medicine, University of Camerino, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (F.M.); (M.N.); (O.M.)
- Correspondence: (M.B.M.); (G.S.); Tel.: +39-0737403312 (M.B.M.); +39-0737403319 (G.S.)
| | - Consuelo Amantini
- School of Biosciences and Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino, 62032 Camerino, Italy;
| | | | | | - Antonella Giannantoni
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy;
- Neurosciences, Functional and Surgical Urology Unit, Santa Maria alle Scotte Hospital, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Ettore Mearini
- Urologic and Andrologic Clinics, University of Perugia, 05100 Perugia, Italy; (J.A.R.d.V.); (E.M.)
| | - Federica Maggi
- School of Pharmacy, Section of Experimental Medicine, University of Camerino, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (F.M.); (M.N.); (O.M.)
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University Sapienza, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Massimo Nabissi
- School of Pharmacy, Section of Experimental Medicine, University of Camerino, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (F.M.); (M.N.); (O.M.)
| | - Oliviero Marinelli
- School of Pharmacy, Section of Experimental Medicine, University of Camerino, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (F.M.); (M.N.); (O.M.)
| | - Matteo Santoni
- Oncology Unit, Macerata Hospital, 62100 Macerata, Italy;
| | - Alessia Cimadamore
- Section of Pathological Anatomy, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health School of Medicine, Polytechnic University of Marche Region, Umberto I Hospitals, 60121 Ancona, Italy;
| | - Rodolfo Montironi
- Molecular Medicine and Cell Therapy Foundation, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche Region, 60126 Ancona, Italy;
| | - Giorgio Santoni
- School of Pharmacy, Section of Experimental Medicine, University of Camerino, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (F.M.); (M.N.); (O.M.)
- Correspondence: (M.B.M.); (G.S.); Tel.: +39-0737403312 (M.B.M.); +39-0737403319 (G.S.)
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31
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Epithelial Mesenchymal Transition and its transcription factors. Biosci Rep 2021; 42:230017. [PMID: 34708244 PMCID: PMC8703024 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20211754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial–mesenchymal transition or EMT is an extremely dynamic process involved in conversion of epithelial cells into mesenchymal cells, stimulated by an ensemble of signaling pathways, leading to change in cellular morphology, suppression of epithelial characters and acquisition of properties such as enhanced cell motility and invasiveness, reduced cell death by apoptosis, resistance to chemotherapeutic drugs etc. Significantly, EMT has been found to play a crucial role during embryonic development, tissue fibrosis and would healing, as well as during cancer metastasis. Over the years, work from various laboratories have identified a rather large number of transcription factors (TFs) including the master regulators of EMT, with the ability to regulate the EMT process directly. In this review, we put together these EMT TFs and discussed their role in the process. We have also tried to focus on their mechanism of action, their interdependency, and the large regulatory network they form. Subsequently, it has become clear that the composition and structure of the transcriptional regulatory network behind EMT probably varies based upon various physiological and pathological contexts, or even in a cell/tissue type-dependent manner.
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Das A, Agarwal P, Jain GK, Aggarwal G, Lather V, Pandita D. Repurposing drugs as novel triple negative breast cancer therapeutics. Anticancer Agents Med Chem 2021; 22:515-550. [PMID: 34674627 DOI: 10.2174/1871520621666211021143255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2021] [Revised: 05/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Among all the types of breast cancer (BC), triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most aggressive form having high metastasis and recurrence rate with limited treatment options. Conventional treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy have lots of toxic side effects and also no FDA approved therapies are available till now. Repurposing of old clinically approved drugs towards various targets of TNBC is the new approach with lesser side effects and also leads to successful inexpensive drug development with less time consuming. Medicinal plants containg various phytoconstituents (flavonoids, alkaloids, phenols, essential oils, tanins, glycosides, lactones) plays very crucial role in combating various types of diseases and used in drug development process because of having lesser side effects. OBJECTIVE The present review focuses in summarization of various categories of repurposed drugs against multitarget of TNBC and also summarizes the phytochemical categories that targets TNBC singly or in combination with synthetic old drugs. METHODS Literature information was collected from various databases such as Pubmed, Web of Science, Scopus and Medline to understand and clarify the role and mechanism of repurposed synthetic drugs and phytoconstituents aginst TNBC by using keywords like "breast cancer", "repurposed drugs", "TNBC" and "phytoconstituents". RESULTS Various repurposed drugs and phytochemicals targeting different signaling pathways that exerts their cytotoxic activities on TNBC cells ultimately leads to apoptosis of cells and also lowers the recurrence rate and stops the metastasis process. CONCLUSION Inhibitory effects seen in different levels, which provides information and evidences to researchers towards drug developments process and thus further more investigations and researches need to be taken to get the better therapeutic treatment options against TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amiya Das
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine & Stem Cell Research (AIMMSCR), Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Sector-125, Noida, 201313. India
| | - Pallavi Agarwal
- Amity Institute of Molecular Medicine & Stem Cell Research (AIMMSCR), Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Sector-125, Noida, 201313. India
| | - Gaurav Kumar Jain
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Delhi Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences & Research, Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, Pushp Vihar, Govt. of NCT of Delhi, New Delhi, 110017. India
| | - Geeta Aggarwal
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Delhi Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences & Research, Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, Pushp Vihar, Govt. of NCT of Delhi, New Delhi, 110017. India
| | - Viney Lather
- Amity Institute of Pharmacy, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Sector-125, Noida, 201313. India
| | - Deepti Pandita
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Delhi Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences & Research, Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, Pushp Vihar, Govt. of NCT of Delhi, New Delhi, 110017. India
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Campion O, Thevenard Devy J, Billottet C, Schneider C, Etique N, Dupuy JW, Raymond AA, Boulagnon Rombi C, Meunier M, Djermoune EH, Lelièvre E, Wahart A, Bour C, Hachet C, Cairo S, Bikfalvi A, Dedieu S, Devy J. LRP-1 Matricellular Receptor Involvement in Triple Negative Breast Cancer Tumor Angiogenesis. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9101430. [PMID: 34680548 PMCID: PMC8533426 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9101430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: LRP-1 is a multifunctional scavenger receptor belonging to the LDLR family. Due to its capacity to control pericellular levels of various growth factors and proteases, LRP-1 plays a crucial role in membrane proteome dynamics, which appears decisive for tumor progression. Methods: LRP-1 involvement in a TNBC model was assessed using an RNA interference strategy in MDA-MB-231 cells. In vivo, tumorigenic and angiogenic effects of LRP-1-repressed cells were evaluated using an orthotopic xenograft model and two angiogenic assays (Matrigel® plugs, CAM). DCE-MRI, FMT, and IHC were used to complete a tumor longitudinal follow-up and obtain morphological and functional vascular information. In vitro, HUVECs’ angiogenic potential was evaluated using a tumor secretome, subjected to a proteomic analysis to highlight LRP-1-dependant signaling pathways. Results: LRP-1 repression in MDA-MB-231 tumors led to a 60% growth delay because of, inter alia, morphological and functional vascular differences, confirmed by angiogenic models. In vitro, the LRP-1-repressed cells secretome restrained HUVECs’ angiogenic capabilities. A proteomics analysis revealed that LRP-1 supports tumor growth and angiogenesis by regulating TGF-β signaling and plasminogen/plasmin system. Conclusions: LRP-1, by its wide spectrum of interactions, emerges as an important matricellular player in the control of cancer-signaling events such as angiogenesis, by supporting tumor vascular morphology and functionality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Océane Campion
- UFR Sciences Exactes et Naturelles, Université de Reims Champagne-Ardenne, 51687 Reims, France; (O.C.); (J.T.D.); (C.S.); (N.E.); (M.M.); (E.L.); (A.W.); (C.B.); (C.H.); (S.D.)
- Matrice Extracellulaire et Dynamique Cellulaire, MEDyC, UMR 7369 CNRS, 51687 Reims, France;
| | - Jessica Thevenard Devy
- UFR Sciences Exactes et Naturelles, Université de Reims Champagne-Ardenne, 51687 Reims, France; (O.C.); (J.T.D.); (C.S.); (N.E.); (M.M.); (E.L.); (A.W.); (C.B.); (C.H.); (S.D.)
- Matrice Extracellulaire et Dynamique Cellulaire, MEDyC, UMR 7369 CNRS, 51687 Reims, France;
| | - Clotilde Billottet
- INSERM, LAMC, U1029, Université de Bordeaux, 33600 Pessac, France; (C.B.); (A.B.)
| | - Christophe Schneider
- UFR Sciences Exactes et Naturelles, Université de Reims Champagne-Ardenne, 51687 Reims, France; (O.C.); (J.T.D.); (C.S.); (N.E.); (M.M.); (E.L.); (A.W.); (C.B.); (C.H.); (S.D.)
- Matrice Extracellulaire et Dynamique Cellulaire, MEDyC, UMR 7369 CNRS, 51687 Reims, France;
| | - Nicolas Etique
- UFR Sciences Exactes et Naturelles, Université de Reims Champagne-Ardenne, 51687 Reims, France; (O.C.); (J.T.D.); (C.S.); (N.E.); (M.M.); (E.L.); (A.W.); (C.B.); (C.H.); (S.D.)
- Matrice Extracellulaire et Dynamique Cellulaire, MEDyC, UMR 7369 CNRS, 51687 Reims, France;
| | | | | | - Camille Boulagnon Rombi
- Matrice Extracellulaire et Dynamique Cellulaire, MEDyC, UMR 7369 CNRS, 51687 Reims, France;
- Laboratoire d’Anatomie Pathologie, CHU Reims, 51100 Reims, France
| | - Marie Meunier
- UFR Sciences Exactes et Naturelles, Université de Reims Champagne-Ardenne, 51687 Reims, France; (O.C.); (J.T.D.); (C.S.); (N.E.); (M.M.); (E.L.); (A.W.); (C.B.); (C.H.); (S.D.)
- Matrice Extracellulaire et Dynamique Cellulaire, MEDyC, UMR 7369 CNRS, 51687 Reims, France;
| | | | - Elodie Lelièvre
- UFR Sciences Exactes et Naturelles, Université de Reims Champagne-Ardenne, 51687 Reims, France; (O.C.); (J.T.D.); (C.S.); (N.E.); (M.M.); (E.L.); (A.W.); (C.B.); (C.H.); (S.D.)
- Matrice Extracellulaire et Dynamique Cellulaire, MEDyC, UMR 7369 CNRS, 51687 Reims, France;
| | - Amandine Wahart
- UFR Sciences Exactes et Naturelles, Université de Reims Champagne-Ardenne, 51687 Reims, France; (O.C.); (J.T.D.); (C.S.); (N.E.); (M.M.); (E.L.); (A.W.); (C.B.); (C.H.); (S.D.)
- Matrice Extracellulaire et Dynamique Cellulaire, MEDyC, UMR 7369 CNRS, 51687 Reims, France;
| | - Camille Bour
- UFR Sciences Exactes et Naturelles, Université de Reims Champagne-Ardenne, 51687 Reims, France; (O.C.); (J.T.D.); (C.S.); (N.E.); (M.M.); (E.L.); (A.W.); (C.B.); (C.H.); (S.D.)
- Matrice Extracellulaire et Dynamique Cellulaire, MEDyC, UMR 7369 CNRS, 51687 Reims, France;
| | - Cathy Hachet
- UFR Sciences Exactes et Naturelles, Université de Reims Champagne-Ardenne, 51687 Reims, France; (O.C.); (J.T.D.); (C.S.); (N.E.); (M.M.); (E.L.); (A.W.); (C.B.); (C.H.); (S.D.)
- Matrice Extracellulaire et Dynamique Cellulaire, MEDyC, UMR 7369 CNRS, 51687 Reims, France;
| | | | - Andréas Bikfalvi
- INSERM, LAMC, U1029, Université de Bordeaux, 33600 Pessac, France; (C.B.); (A.B.)
| | - Stéphane Dedieu
- UFR Sciences Exactes et Naturelles, Université de Reims Champagne-Ardenne, 51687 Reims, France; (O.C.); (J.T.D.); (C.S.); (N.E.); (M.M.); (E.L.); (A.W.); (C.B.); (C.H.); (S.D.)
- Matrice Extracellulaire et Dynamique Cellulaire, MEDyC, UMR 7369 CNRS, 51687 Reims, France;
| | - Jérôme Devy
- UFR Sciences Exactes et Naturelles, Université de Reims Champagne-Ardenne, 51687 Reims, France; (O.C.); (J.T.D.); (C.S.); (N.E.); (M.M.); (E.L.); (A.W.); (C.B.); (C.H.); (S.D.)
- Matrice Extracellulaire et Dynamique Cellulaire, MEDyC, UMR 7369 CNRS, 51687 Reims, France;
- Correspondence:
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Voutilainen S, Heikkilä P, Sampo M, Nevanlinna H, Blomqvist C, Mattson J. Expression of markers of stem cell characteristics, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, basal-like phenotype, proliferation, and androgen receptor in metaplastic breast cancer and their prognostic impact. Acta Oncol 2021; 60:1233-1239. [PMID: 34282709 DOI: 10.1080/0284186x.2021.1950927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Metaplastic breast cancer (MpBC) is a heterogeneous subtype of invasive mammary carcinoma associated with epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and cancer stem cell characteristics. Data regarding prognostic markers and potentially actionable targets for therapy are still limited. The present study aimed to characterize the immunohistochemical landscape of this rare malignancy and to identify potential prognostic factors and targets for therapy. MATERIAL AND METHODS A total of 75 patients diagnosed with MpBC over a 15-year period were included in the study. We performed immunohistochemical analyses for Ki-67 (MIB-1), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), cytokeratin 5/6, vimentin, CD44, and androgen receptor (AR) and correlated their expression with clinicopathologic features and clinical outcomes. The p-values for survival analyses were corrected for multiple testing (threshold 0.01). RESULTS Most tumors expressed CK5/6 (73%), EGFR (59%), CD44 (81%), and vimentin (87%). Eighty-nine percent had a high Ki-67 index. Eighty-four percent were classified as basal-like (CK 5/6 or EGFR positive). AR was expressed in 21% of the tumors. The basal-like phenotype was significantly (p = 0.009) associated with inferior disease-free (DFS) and breast-cancer-specific overall survival (BCOS) with borderline significance (p = 0.01). In addition, a low Ki-67 index was associated with improved DFS (p = 0.033) and BCOS (p = 0.03). CONCLUSION Most MpBCs express basal markers (CK5/6, EGFR), epithelial-mesenchymal transition marker vimentin, and the stem cell marker CD44. Expression of basal-like markers was significantly related to inferior DFS. All the 11 patients with a lack of expression of basal markers survived without relapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sari Voutilainen
- Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Päivi Heikkilä
- Department of Pathology, University of Helsinki and HUSLAB, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Mika Sampo
- Department of Pathology, University of Helsinki and HUSLAB, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Heli Nevanlinna
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Helsinki, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Carl Blomqvist
- Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Johanna Mattson
- Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
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Abdoli Shadbad M, Hosseinkhani N, Asadzadeh Z, Derakhshani A, Karim Ahangar N, Hemmat N, Lotfinejad P, Brunetti O, Silvestris N, Baradaran B. A Systematic Review to Clarify the Prognostic Values of CD44 and CD44 +CD24 - Phenotype in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Patients: Lessons Learned and The Road Ahead. Front Oncol 2021; 11:689839. [PMID: 34434894 PMCID: PMC8381605 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.689839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
As a unique population of tumor bulk, cancer stem cells have been implicated in tumor relapse and chemoresistance in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Therefore, understanding the phenotype of cancer stem cells can pave the way for introducing novel molecular targeted therapies for treating TNBC patients. Preclinical studies have identified CD44+CD24-/low as a cancer stem cell phenotype; however, clinical studies have reported seemingly controversial results regarding the prognostic values of CD44 and CD44+CD24-/low phenotype in TNBC patients. To critically review the clinicopathological significance and prognostic values of CD44 and CD44+CD24-/low phenotype in TNBC patients, the Scopus, Embase, PubMed, and Web of Science databases were systematically searched to obtain the relevant records published before 20 October 2020. Based on nine included studies, CD44 and CD44+CD24-/low phenotype are associated with inferior prognosis in TNBC patients. Moreover, these cancer stem cell markers have been associated with advanced tumor stage, tumor size, higher tumor grade, tumor metastasis, and lymphatic involvement in TNBC patients. Our evidence has also indicated that, unlike the treatment-naïve TNBC patients, the tumoral cells of chemoradiotherapy-treated TNBC patients can upregulate the CD44+CD24-/low phenotype and establish an inverse association with androgen receptor (AR), leading to the inferior prognosis of affected patients. In summary, CD44 and CD44+CD24-/low phenotype can be utilized to determine TNBC patients' prognosis in the pathology department as a routine practice, and targeting these phenotypes can substantially improve the prognosis of TNBC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahdi Abdoli Shadbad
- Research Center for Evidence-Based Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Negar Hosseinkhani
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Zahra Asadzadeh
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Afshin Derakhshani
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Laboratory of Experimental Pharmacology, IRCCS Istituto Tumori Giovanni Paolo II, Bari, Italy
| | - Noora Karim Ahangar
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Nima Hemmat
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Parisa Lotfinejad
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Oronzo Brunetti
- Medical Oncology Unit, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Istituto Tumori Giovanni Paolo II, Bari, Italy
| | - Nicola Silvestris
- Medical Oncology Unit, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Istituto Tumori Giovanni Paolo II, Bari, Italy.,Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, Aldo Moro University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Behzad Baradaran
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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Triple negative breast cancer and non-small cell lung cancer: Clinical challenges and nano-formulation approaches. J Control Release 2021; 337:27-58. [PMID: 34273417 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2021.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) are amongst the most aggressive forms of solid tumors. TNBC is highlighted by absence of genetic components of progesterone receptor, HER2/neu and estrogen receptor in breast cancer. NSCLC is characterized by integration of malignant carcinoma into respiratory system. Both cancers are associated with poor median and overall survival rates with low progression free survival with high incidences of relapse. These cancers are characterized by tumor heterogeneity, genetic mutations, generation of cancer-stem cells, immune-resistance and chemoresistance. Further, these neoplasms have been reported for tumor cross-talk into second primary cancers for each other. Current chemotherapeutic regimens include usage of multiple agents in tandem to affect tumor cells through multiple mechanisms with various such combinations being clinically tested. However, lack of controlled delivery and effective temporospatial presence of chemotherapeutics has resulted in suboptimal therapeutic response. Consequently, passive targeted albumin bound paclitaxel and PEGylated liposomal doxorubicin have been clinically used and tested with newer drugs for improved therapeutic efficacy in these cancers. Active targeting of nanocarriers against surface overexpressed proteins in both neoplasms have been explored. However, use of single agent nanoparticulate formulations against both cancers have failed to elicit desired outcomes. This review aims to identify clinical unmet need in these cancers while establishing a correlation with tested nano-formulation approaches and issues with preclinical to clinical translation. Lipid and polymer-based drug-drug and drug-gene combinatorial nanocarriers delivering multiple chemotherapeutics simultaneously to desired site of action have been detailed. Finally, emerging opportunities such as pharmacological targets (immune check point and epigentic modulators) as well as gene-based modulation (siRNA/CRISPR/Cas9) and the nano-formulation challenges for effective treatment of both cancers have been explored.
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Buhrmann C, Brockmueller A, Harsha C, Kunnumakkara AB, Kubatka P, Aggarwal BB, Shakibaei M. Evidence That Tumor Microenvironment Initiates Epithelial-To-Mesenchymal Transition and Calebin A can Suppress it in Colorectal Cancer Cells. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:699842. [PMID: 34276382 PMCID: PMC8283792 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.699842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Tumor microenvironment (TME) has a pivotal impact on tumor progression, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is an extremely crucial initial event in the metastatic process in colorectal cancer (CRC) that is not yet fully understood. Calebin A (an ingredient in Curcuma longa) has been shown to repress CRC tumor growth. However, whether Calebin A is able to abrogate TME-induced EMT in CRC was investigated based on the underlying pathways. Methods: CRC cell lines (HCT116, RKO) were exposed with Calebin A and/or a FAK inhibitor, cytochalasin D (CD) to investigate the action of Calebin A in TME-induced EMT-related tumor progression. Results: TME induced viability, proliferation, and increased invasiveness in 3D-alginate CRC cultures. In addition, TME stimulated stabilization of the master EMT-related transcription factor (Slug), which was accompanied by changes in the expression patterns of EMT-associated biomarkers. Moreover, TME resulted in stimulation of NF-κB, TGF-β1, and FAK signaling pathways. However, these effects were dramatically reduced by Calebin A, comparable to FAK inhibitor or CD. Finally, TME induced a functional association between NF-κB and Slug, suggesting that a synergistic interaction between the two transcription factors is required for initiation of EMT and tumor cell invasion, whereas Calebin A strongly inhibited this binding and subsequent CRC cell migration. Conclusion: We propose for the first time that Calebin A modulates TME-induced EMT in CRC cells, at least partially through the NF-κB/Slug axis, TGF-β1, and FAK signaling. Thus, Calebin A appears to be a potential agent for the prevention and management of CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Constanze Buhrmann
- Musculoskeletal Research Group and Tumor Biology, Chair of Vegetative Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Anatomy, Ludwig-Maximilian-University Munich, Munich, Germany.,Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Augsburg, Augsburg, Germany
| | - Aranka Brockmueller
- Musculoskeletal Research Group and Tumor Biology, Chair of Vegetative Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Anatomy, Ludwig-Maximilian-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Choudhary Harsha
- Cancer Biology Laboratory and DBT-AIST International Center for Translational and Environmental Research (DAICENTER), Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, India
| | - Ajaikumar B Kunnumakkara
- Cancer Biology Laboratory and DBT-AIST International Center for Translational and Environmental Research (DAICENTER), Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, Guwahati, India
| | - Peter Kubatka
- Department of Medical Biology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin, Slovakia
| | | | - Mehdi Shakibaei
- Musculoskeletal Research Group and Tumor Biology, Chair of Vegetative Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Anatomy, Ludwig-Maximilian-University Munich, Munich, Germany
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Williams MM, Christenson JL, O'Neill KI, Hafeez SA, Ihle CL, Spoelstra NS, Slansky JE, Richer JK. MicroRNA-200c restoration reveals a cytokine profile to enhance M1 macrophage polarization in breast cancer. NPJ Breast Cancer 2021; 7:64. [PMID: 34045467 PMCID: PMC8160264 DOI: 10.1038/s41523-021-00273-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Many immune suppressive mechanisms utilized by triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) are regulated by oncogenic epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). How TNBC EMT impacts innate immune cells is not fully understood. To determine how TNBC suppresses antitumor macrophages, we used microRNA-200c (miR-200c), a powerful repressor of EMT, to drive mesenchymal-like mouse mammary carcinoma and human TNBC cells toward a more epithelial state. MiR-200c restoration significantly decreased growth of mouse mammary carcinoma Met-1 cells in culture and in vivo. Cytokine profiling of Met-1 and human BT549 cells revealed that miR-200c upregulated cytokines, such as granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), promoted M1 antitumor macrophage polarization. Cytokines upregulated by miR-200c correlated with an epithelial gene signature and M1 macrophage polarization in BC patients and predicted a more favorable overall survival for TNBC patients. Our findings demonstrate that immunogenic cytokines (e.g., GM-CSF) are suppressed in aggressive TNBC, warranting further investigation of cytokine-based therapies to limit disease recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle M Williams
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Jessica L Christenson
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Kathleen I O'Neill
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Sabrina A Hafeez
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Claire L Ihle
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Nicole S Spoelstra
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Jill E Slansky
- Department of Immunology & Microbiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Jennifer K Richer
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA.
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20(S)-ginsenoside Rh2 as agent for the treatment of LMN-CRC via regulating epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Biosci Rep 2021; 40:222306. [PMID: 32141497 PMCID: PMC7098129 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20191507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2019] [Revised: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 03/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The lymph node metastasis of colorectal cancer (LMN-CRC) seriously threatens the prognosis of patients. Chemotherapy, as the most common treatment, results in severe bone marrow suppression. 20(S)-ginsenoside Rh2 (SGRh2), a major effective constituent of ginseng, has demonstrated therapeutic effects on a variety of diseases, including some tumours. SGRh2 treatment had no effect on other organs. Therefore, ginsenosides are considered a safe and effective antineoplastic drug. However, the effects of SGRh2 on LMN-CRC remain unknown. The present study investigated the potential effect of SGRh2 on LMN-CRC in vitro and in vivo. SW480 and CoLo205 cell lines were treated with SGRh2. SGRh2 dose-dependently decreased CRC cell proliferation by CCK-8, colony formation and Edu assays. The Transwell and scratch assays revealed that SGRh2 inhibits the migratory and invasive abilities of CRC cells in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, the results of Western blotting revealed that SGRh2 decreased the expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and MMP9. In terms of the underlying mechanisms, SGRh2 regulates CRC metastasis by affecting epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), which significantly up-regulated epithelial biomarkers (E-cadherin) and down-regulated mesenchymal biomarkers (N-cadherin and vimentin) and EMT transcriptional factors (Smad-3, Snail-1, and Twist-1). In vivo, SGRh2 significantly inhibited LMN-CRC without affecting other normal organs. Immunohistochemical results showed that SGRh2 treats LMN-CRC by regulating EMT. These results demonstrate that SGRh2 has therapeutic potential for LMN-CRC.
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40
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Zhong PC, Shu R, Wu HW, Liu ZW, Shen XL, Hu YJ. Altered gene expression in glycolysis-cholesterol synthesis axis correlates with outcome of triple-negative breast cancer. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2021; 246:560-571. [PMID: 33243007 PMCID: PMC7934150 DOI: 10.1177/1535370220975206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Identification of molecular subtypes of clinically resectable triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is of great importance to achieve better clinical outcomes. Inter- and intratumor metabolic heterogeneity improves cancer survival, and the interaction of various metabolic pathways may affect treatment outcome of TNBC. We speculated that TNBC can be categorized into prognostic metabolic subtype according to the expression changes of glycolysis and cholesterol synthesis. The genome, transcriptome, and clinical data were downloaded from the Cancer Genome Atlas and Molecular Taxonomy of Breast Cancer International Consortium and subsequently analyzed by integrated bioinformatics methods. Four subtypes, namely, glycolytic, cholesterogenic, quiescent, and mixed, were classified according to the normalized median expressions of the genes involved in glycolysis and cholesterol synthesis. In the four subtypes, the cholesterogenic type was correlated with the shortest median survival (log rank P = 0.044), while patients with high-expressed glycolytic genes tended to have a longer survival. Tumors with PIK3CA amplification and dynein axonemal heavy chain 2 deletion exhibited higher expressions of cholesterogenic genes than other mutant oncogenes. The expressions of mitochondrial pyruvate carrier MPC1 and MPC2 were the lowest in quiescent tumor, and MPC2 expression was higher in cholesterogenic tumor compared with glycolytic or quiescent tumor (t-test P < 0.001). Glycolytic and cholesterogenic gene expressions were related to the expressions of prognostic genes in some other types of cancers. Classification of glycolytic and cholesterogenic pathways according to metabolic characteristics provides a new understanding to previously identified subtypes of TNBC and could improve personalized treatments based on tumor metabolic profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng-Cheng Zhong
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, China
| | - Rong Shu
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, China
| | - Hui-Wen Wu
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, China
| | - Zhi-Wen Liu
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, China
| | - Xiao-Ling Shen
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, China
| | - Ying-Jie Hu
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510405, China
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Zolota V, Tzelepi V, Piperigkou Z, Kourea H, Papakonstantinou E, Argentou MI, Karamanos NK. Epigenetic Alterations in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer-The Critical Role of Extracellular Matrix. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13040713. [PMID: 33572395 PMCID: PMC7916242 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13040713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subgroup of breast cancer characterized by genomic complexity and therapeutic options limited to only standard chemotherapy. Although it has been suggested that stratifying TNBC patients by pathway-specific molecular alterations may predict benefit from specific therapeutic agents, application in routine clinical practice has not yet been established. There is a growing body of the literature supporting that epigenetic modifications comprised by DNA methylation, chromatin remodeling and non-coding RNAs play a fundamental role in TNBC pathogenesis. Extracellular matrix (ECM) is a highly dynamic 3D network of macromolecules with structural and cellular regulatory roles. Alterations in the expression of ECM components result in uncontrolled matrix remodeling, thus affecting its ability to regulate vital functions of cancer cells, including proliferation, migration, adhesion, invasion and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Recent molecular data highlight the major role of tumor microenvironment and ECM alterations in TNBC and approaches for targeting tumor microenvironment have recently been recognized as potential therapeutic strategies. Notably, many of the ECM/EMT modifications in cancer are largely driven by epigenetic events, highlighting the pleiotropic effects of the epigenetic network in TNBC. This article presents and critically discusses the current knowledge on the epigenetic alterations correlated with TNBC pathogenesis, with emphasis on those associated with ECM/EMT modifications, their prognostic and predictive value and their use as therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasiliki Zolota
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Rion, Greece; (V.T.); (H.K.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +30-0693613366
| | - Vasiliki Tzelepi
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Rion, Greece; (V.T.); (H.K.)
| | - Zoi Piperigkou
- Biochemistry, Biochemical Analysis & Matrix Pathobiology Research Group, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Chemistry, University of Patras, 26110 Patras, Greece; (Z.P.); (N.K.K.)
- Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas (FORTH)/Institute of Chemical Engineering Sciences (ICE-HT), 26110 Patras, Greece
| | - Helen Kourea
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Rion, Greece; (V.T.); (H.K.)
| | - Efthymia Papakonstantinou
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics School of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Rion, Greece;
| | - Maria-Ioanna Argentou
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Rion, Greece;
| | - Nikos K. Karamanos
- Biochemistry, Biochemical Analysis & Matrix Pathobiology Research Group, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Chemistry, University of Patras, 26110 Patras, Greece; (Z.P.); (N.K.K.)
- Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas (FORTH)/Institute of Chemical Engineering Sciences (ICE-HT), 26110 Patras, Greece
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Abstract
Despite the decline in death rate from breast cancer and recent advances in targeted therapies and combinations for the treatment of metastatic disease, metastatic breast cancer remains the second leading cause of cancer-associated death in U.S. women. The invasion-metastasis cascade involves a number of steps and multitudes of proteins and signaling molecules. The pathways include invasion, intravasation, circulation, extravasation, infiltration into a distant site to form a metastatic niche, and micrometastasis formation in a new environment. Each of these processes is regulated by changes in gene expression. Noncoding RNAs including microRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in breast cancer tumorigenesis, progression, and metastasis by post-transcriptional regulation of target gene expression. miRNAs can stimulate oncogenesis (oncomiRs), inhibit tumor growth (tumor suppressors or miRsupps), and regulate gene targets in metastasis (metastamiRs). The goal of this review is to summarize some of the key miRNAs that regulate genes and pathways involved in metastatic breast cancer with an emphasis on estrogen receptor α (ERα+) breast cancer. We reviewed the identity, regulation, human breast tumor expression, and reported prognostic significance of miRNAs that have been documented to directly target key genes in pathways, including epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) contributing to the metastatic cascade. We critically evaluated the evidence for metastamiRs and their targets and miRNA regulation of metastasis suppressor genes in breast cancer progression and metastasis. It is clear that our understanding of miRNA regulation of targets in metastasis is incomplete.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belinda J Petri
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, 40292, USA
| | - Carolyn M Klinge
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, 40292, USA.
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Triple negative breast cancer in the era of miRNA. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2020; 157:103196. [PMID: 33307198 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2020.103196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2019] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The objective of this review is to elucidate the role of miRNAs in triple negative breast cancer (TNBC). To achieve our goal, we searched databases such as PubMed, ScienceDirect, Springer, Web of Science and Scopus. We retrieved up to 1233 articles, based a rigorous selection criterion, only 197 articles were extensively reviewed. We selected articles only addressing TNBC, but not other types of breast cancer, with the employed approach being miRNA analysis and/or profiling. Our extensive review resulted in grouping of miRNAs into categories in which specific members of miRNAs have roles in specific mechanism in TNBC i.e., carcinogenesis, invasion, metastasis, apoptosis, diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment. TNBC is an aggressive subtype of breast cancer; therefore, different approaches for accurate diagnosis, prognosis and treatment are needed. In this review we summarize the up-to-date miRNA profiling, prognostic, and therapeutic findings that add to the route of controlling TNBC.
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Gao SP, Kiliti AJ, Zhang K, Vasani N, Mao N, Jordan E, Wise HC, Shrestha Bhattarai T, Hu W, Dorso M, Rodrigues JA, Kim K, Hanrahan AJ, Razavi P, Carver B, Chandarlapaty S, Reis-Filho JS, Taylor BS, Solit DB. AKT1 E17K Inhibits Cancer Cell Migration by Abrogating β-Catenin Signaling. Mol Cancer Res 2020; 19:573-584. [PMID: 33303690 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-20-0623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Revised: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Mutational activation of the PI3K/AKT pathway is among the most common pro-oncogenic events in human cancers. The clinical utility of PI3K and AKT inhibitors has, however, been modest to date. Here, we used CRISPR-mediated gene editing to study the biological consequences of AKT1 E17K mutation by developing an AKT1 E17K-mutant isogenic system in a TP53-null background. AKT1 E17K expression under the control of its endogenous promoter enhanced cell growth and colony formation, but had a paradoxical inhibitory effect on cell migration and invasion. The mechanistic basis by which activated AKT1 inhibited cell migration and invasion was increased E-cadherin expression mediated by suppression of ZEB1 transcription via altered β-catenin subcellular localization. This phenotypic effect was AKT1-specific, as AKT2 activation had the opposite effect, a reduction in E-cadherin expression. Consistent with the opposing effects of AKT1 and AKT2 activation on E-cadherin expression, a pro-migratory effect of AKT1 activation was not observed in breast cancer cells with PTEN loss or expression of an activating PIK3CA mutation, alterations which induce the activation of both AKT isoforms. The results suggest that the use of AKT inhibitors in patients with breast cancer could paradoxically accelerate metastatic progression in some genetic contexts and may explain the frequent coselection for CDH1 mutations in AKT1-mutated breast tumors. IMPLICATIONS: AKT1 E17K mutation in breast cancer impairs migration/invasiveness via sequestration of β-catenin to the cell membrane leading to decreased ZEB1 transcription, resulting in increased E-cadherin expression and a reversal of epithelial-mesenchymal transition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sizhi Paul Gao
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Amber J Kiliti
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Kai Zhang
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Naresh Vasani
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Ninghui Mao
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Emmet Jordan
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Hannah C Wise
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York.,Louis V. Gerstner, Jr. Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Tripti Shrestha Bhattarai
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York.,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Wenhuo Hu
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Madeline Dorso
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - James A Rodrigues
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Kwanghee Kim
- Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Aphrothiti J Hanrahan
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Pedram Razavi
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Brett Carver
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York.,Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Sarat Chandarlapaty
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York.,Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Jorge S Reis-Filho
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York.,Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Barry S Taylor
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York.,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York.,Marie-Josée and Henry R. Kravis Center for Molecular Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York.,Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, New York
| | - David B Solit
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York. .,Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York.,Marie-Josée and Henry R. Kravis Center for Molecular Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York.,Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, New York
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Couto de Carvalho LA, Tosta Dos Santos SL, Sacramento LV, de Almeida VR, de Aquino Xavier FC, Dos Santos JN, Gomes Henriques Leitão ÁC. Mesenchymal stem cell markers in periodontal tissues and periapical lesions. Acta Histochem 2020; 122:151636. [PMID: 33132168 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2020.151636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2020] [Revised: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are characterized by the potential to differentiate into multiple cell lineages, high proliferation rates, and self-renewal capacity, in addition to the ability to maintain their undifferentiated state. These cells have been identified in physiological oral tissues such as pulp tissue, dental follicle, apical papilla and periodontal ligament, as well as in pathological situations such as chronic periapical lesions (CPLs). The criteria used for the identification of MSCs include the positive expression of specific surface antigens, with CD73, CD90, CD105, CD44, CD146, STRO-1, CD166, NANOG and OCT4 being the most specific for these cells. AIM The aim of this review was to explore the literature on markers able to identify MSCs as well as the presence of these cells in the healthy periodontal ligament and CPLs, highlighting their role in regenerative medicine and implications in the progression of these lesions. METHODS Narrative literature review searching the PubMed and Medline databases. Articles published in English between 1974 and 2020 were retrieved. CONCLUSION The included studies confirmed the presence of MSCs in the healthy periodontal ligament and in CPLs. Several surface markers are used for the characterization of these cells which, although not specific, are effective in cell recognition. Mesenchymal stem cells participate in tissue repair, exerting anti- inflammatory, immunosuppressive and proangiogenic effects, and are therefore involved in the progression and attenuation of CPLs or even in the persistence of these lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Jean Nunes Dos Santos
- Postgraduation Program in Dentistry and Health, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, BA, Brazil
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Srinivasan S, Leshchyk A, Johnson NT, Korkin D. A hybrid deep clustering approach for robust cell type profiling using single-cell RNA-seq data. RNA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2020; 26:1303-1319. [PMID: 32532794 PMCID: PMC7491323 DOI: 10.1261/rna.074427.119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) is a recent technology that enables fine-grained discovery of cellular subtypes and specific cell states. Analysis of scRNA-seq data routinely involves machine learning methods, such as feature learning, clustering, and classification, to assist in uncovering novel information from scRNA-seq data. However, current methods are not well suited to deal with the substantial amount of noise that is created by the experiments or the variation that occurs due to differences in the cells of the same type. To address this, we developed a new hybrid approach, deep unsupervised single-cell clustering (DUSC), which integrates feature generation based on a deep learning architecture by using a new technique to estimate the number of latent features, with a model-based clustering algorithm, to find a compact and informative representation of the single-cell transcriptomic data generating robust clusters. We also include a technique to estimate an efficient number of latent features in the deep learning model. Our method outperforms both classical and state-of-the-art feature learning and clustering methods, approaching the accuracy of supervised learning. We applied DUSC to a single-cell transcriptomics data set obtained from a triple-negative breast cancer tumor to identify potential cancer subclones accentuated by copy-number variation and investigate the role of clonal heterogeneity. Our method is freely available to the community and will hopefully facilitate our understanding of the cellular atlas of living organisms as well as provide the means to improve patient diagnostics and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suhas Srinivasan
- Data Science Program, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, Massachusetts 01609, USA
| | - Anastasia Leshchyk
- Bioinformatics and Computational Biology Program, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, Massachusetts 01609, USA
| | - Nathan T Johnson
- Laboratory of Systems Pharmacology, Harvard Program in Therapeutic Science, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
- Breast Tumor Immunology Laboratory, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, USA
| | - Dmitry Korkin
- Data Science Program, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, Massachusetts 01609, USA
- Bioinformatics and Computational Biology Program, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, Massachusetts 01609, USA
- Department of Computer Science, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, Massachusetts 01609, USA
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Ko CCH, Chia WK, Selvarajah GT, Cheah YK, Wong YP, Tan GC. The Role of Breast Cancer Stem Cell-Related Biomarkers as Prognostic Factors. Diagnostics (Basel) 2020; 10:diagnostics10090721. [PMID: 32961774 PMCID: PMC7555329 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics10090721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2020] [Revised: 09/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in women worldwide, and its incidence is on the rise. A small fraction of cancer stem cells was identified within the tumour bulk, which are regarded as cancer-initiating cells, possess self-renewal and propagation potential, and a key driver for tumour heterogeneity and disease progression. Cancer heterogeneity reduces the overall efficacy of chemotherapy and contributes to treatment failure and relapse. The cell-surface and subcellular biomarkers related to breast cancer stem cell (BCSC) phenotypes are increasingly being recognised. These biomarkers are useful for the isolation of BCSCs and can serve as potential therapeutic targets and prognostic tools to monitor treatment responses. Recently, the role of noncoding microRNAs (miRNAs) has extensively been explored as novel biomarker molecules for breast cancer diagnosis and prognosis with high specificity and sensitivity. An in-depth understanding of the biological roles of miRNA in breast carcinogenesis provides insights into the pathways of cancer development and its utility for disease prognostication. This review gives an overview of stem cells, highlights the biomarkers expressed in BCSCs and describes their potential role as prognostic indicators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clarence Ching Huat Ko
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, 56000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; (C.C.H.K.); (W.K.C.)
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Malaysia;
| | - Wai Kit Chia
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, 56000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; (C.C.H.K.); (W.K.C.)
| | - Gayathri Thevi Selvarajah
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Malaysia;
- Institute of Biosciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM, Serdang, Malaysia
| | - Yoke Kqueen Cheah
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Malaysia;
- Institute of Biosciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM, Serdang, Malaysia
| | - Yin Ping Wong
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, 56000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; (C.C.H.K.); (W.K.C.)
- Correspondence: (Y.P.W.); (G.C.T.); Tel.: +603-91459508 (Y.P.W.); +603-91455362 (G.C.T.)
| | - Geok Chin Tan
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, Bandar Tun Razak, 56000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; (C.C.H.K.); (W.K.C.)
- Correspondence: (Y.P.W.); (G.C.T.); Tel.: +603-91459508 (Y.P.W.); +603-91455362 (G.C.T.)
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Wang G, Dong Y, Liu H. Curcumol enhances the anti-tumor effects of metformin via suppressing epithelial-mesenchymal transition in triple-negative breast cancer. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2020; 8:946. [PMID: 32953746 PMCID: PMC7475397 DOI: 10.21037/atm-20-5438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Background Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a severe disease with a high mortality rate. Metformin has been found to possess anti-tumor properties. Curcumol, an active ingredient extracted from curcuma, exerts the protective effect in TNBC cells through inducing apoptosis. However, the effects of curcumol combined with metformin on the treatment of TNBC have yet to be fully established. Methods TNBC cells MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 cells were used in the study. TNBC cells were treated with curcumol and metformin alone or treated with curcumol combined with metformin. Cell viability was determined using Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. Cell apoptosis was detected using terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay. The levels of proteins were measured using Western blot. Wound healing assay and Transwell invasion assays were used to determine cell migration and invasion ability, respectively. A xenograft model was established to investigate the tumor growth ability. Immunohistochemistry was performed to determine the expression of Ki-67 and Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Results In the study, the administration of curcumol alone had no significant effects on the TNBC cells. However, the anti-proliferation, anti-metastasis, and anti-epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) effects of metformin were enhanced by the addition of curcumol. Further, curcumol reversed TNBC cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and EMT induced by rucaparib, and enhanced the effect of metformin on rucaparib-induced TNBC cells. The combination of curcumol and metformin also suppressed tumor growth, EMT marker expression, and the activation of Wnt2/β-Catenin signaling during in vivo experiments. Conclusions The combination of curcumol and metformin enhances the anti-tumor effects of metformin on TNBC via inhibiting EMT. Curcumol combined with metformin may hold promise as a therapeutic strategy for TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gangyue Wang
- Department of Breast, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yi Dong
- Department of Breast, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Heng Liu
- Department of Breast, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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NOTCH1 activation compensates BRCA1 deficiency and promotes triple-negative breast cancer formation. Nat Commun 2020; 11:3256. [PMID: 32591500 PMCID: PMC7320176 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-16936-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2019] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BRCA1 mutation carriers have a higher risk of developing triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), which is a refractory disease due to its non-responsiveness to current clinical targeted therapies. Using the Sleeping Beauty transposon system in Brca1-deficient mice, we identified 169 putative cancer drivers, among which Notch1 is a top candidate for accelerating TNBC by promoting the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and regulating the cell cycle. Activation of NOTCH1 suppresses mitotic catastrophe caused by BRCA1 deficiency by restoring S/G2 and G2/M cell cycle checkpoints, which may through activation of ATR-CHK1 signalling pathway. Consistently, analysis of human breast cancer tissue demonstrates NOTCH1 is highly expressed in TNBCs, and the activated form of NOTCH1 correlates positively with increased phosphorylation of ATR. Additionally, we demonstrate that inhibition of the NOTCH1-ATR-CHK1 cascade together with cisplatin synergistically kills TNBC by targeting the cell cycle checkpoint, DNA damage and EMT, providing a potent clinical option for this fatal disease.
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50
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Georgakopoulos-Soares I, Chartoumpekis DV, Kyriazopoulou V, Zaravinos A. EMT Factors and Metabolic Pathways in Cancer. Front Oncol 2020; 10:499. [PMID: 32318352 PMCID: PMC7154126 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.00499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 169] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) represents a biological program during which epithelial cells lose their cell identity and acquire a mesenchymal phenotype. EMT is normally observed during organismal development, wound healing and tissue fibrosis. However, this process can be hijacked by cancer cells and is often associated with resistance to apoptosis, acquisition of tissue invasiveness, cancer stem cell characteristics, and cancer treatment resistance. It is becoming evident that EMT is a complex, multifactorial spectrum, often involving episodic, transient or partial events. Multiple factors have been causally implicated in EMT including transcription factors (e.g., SNAIL, TWIST, ZEB), epigenetic modifications, microRNAs (e.g., miR-200 family) and more recently, long non-coding RNAs. However, the relevance of metabolic pathways in EMT is only recently being recognized. Importantly, alterations in key metabolic pathways affect cancer development and progression. In this review, we report the roles of key EMT factors and describe their interactions and interconnectedness. We introduce metabolic pathways that are involved in EMT, including glycolysis, the TCA cycle, lipid and amino acid metabolism, and characterize the relationship between EMT factors and cancer metabolism. Finally, we present therapeutic opportunities involving EMT, with particular focus on cancer metabolic pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilias Georgakopoulos-Soares
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States.,Institute for Human Genetics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Dionysios V Chartoumpekis
- Service of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Venetsana Kyriazopoulou
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Apostolos Zaravinos
- College of Medicine, Member of QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.,Department of Life Sciences European University Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
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