The ALOX5 inhibitor Zileuton regulates tumor-associated macrophage M2 polarization by JAK/STAT and inhibits pancreatic cancer invasion and metastasis

CDCA4 promotes bladder cancer progression by JAK/STAT signaling pathway

BACKGROUND

The cell division cycle associated 4 (CDCA4) plays a crucial role in various biological processes and is implicated in the progression of several tumors, however, the mechanisms by which it operates in bladder cancer remain unclear.

METHODS

Utilizing data from the TCGA and GEO datasets of bladder cancer patients, we analyzed the expression of CDCA4 and its prognostic significance. We then constructed stable overexpression and knockdown bladder cancer cell lines to investigate the effects of CDCA4 on cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in vitro, employing CCK-8, colony formation, transwell, and wound healing assays. Additionally, we validated the potential downstream pathways of CDCA4 through data analysis and western blot assays.

RESULTS

Our study found that CDCA4 expression is elevated in bladder cancer cells and correlates with poor prognosis in patients. Inhibition of CDCA4 expression reduces the proliferation, migration, and invasion of bladder cancer cells, as well as inhibit the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process. Conversely, promoting CDCA4 expression enhances the malignancy of bladder cancer cells. Investigation into the mechanism of CDCA4 revealed that it promotes bladder cancer progression by activating the JAK/STAT signaling pathway, and the JAK inhibitor AG490 can reverse the promoting effects of CDCA4.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that CDCA4 enhances the proliferation, migration, and invasion of bladder cancer cells by positively regulating the JAK/STAT signaling pathway, indicating that CDCA4 may serve as a novel molecular target for bladder cancer treatment.

Dynamine 3 as a Diagnostic and Prognostic Biomarker in Pancreatic Cancer: Implications for Early Detection and Targeted Therapy

BACKGROUND

Dynamins are defined as a group of molecules with GTPase activity that play a role in the formation of endocytic vesicles and Golgi apparatus. Among them, DNM3 has gained recognition in oncology for its tumor suppressor role. Based on this, the aim of this study is to investigate the effects of the DNM3 gene in patients diagnosed with pancreatic cancer using bioinformatics databases.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

For differential gene expression analysis, TCGA TARGET GTEx study on the UCSC Xena, GSE196009, GSE211398, GSE151580 datasets on The Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) were utilized; for the analysis of changes in gene expression according to stages GEPIA2 were utilized; for the analysis of changes in gene expression according to clinical and pathological characteristics, UALCAN was employed; for Overall Survival (OS) analysis, Kaplan-Meier Plotter was used; for gene alteration analysis, cBioPortal was utilized; for immune cell infiltration analysis, Tumor Immune Estimation Resource (TIMER) and TIMER2.0 were employed; for protein-protein interaction and gene enrichment analyses, STRING was used; for enrichment analyses Enrichr was used; for Gene Set Correlation Enrichment Analysis Gscore was used on GSE15471; for essentiality of DNM3 gene in pancratic cancer cell lines DepMap was used; and for the detection of miRNAs, miRDB was utilized; ENCORI was used for gene-miRNA correlation and miRNA prognosis analyses.

RESULTS

In the pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD) cohort, DNM3 gene expression was higher in tumor samples, and there was no significant difference in expression among cancer stages. High levels of DNM3 gene expression were associated with longer OS in PAAD. A weak positive correlation was observed between DNM3 gene expression and B-Cell and CD + T Cell infiltrations, while a moderate positive correlation was found with CD8+ T Cell, Macrophage, Neutrophil, and Dendritic Cell infiltrations in TIMER. NK cell by QUANTISEQ, CD 4+ T Cell by TIMER, T cell regulatory (Tregs) by CIBERSORT-ABS infiltrations were positively associated with DNM3 gene expression and decreased risk in prognosis. Common lymphoid progenitor by XCELL and MDSC by TIDE infiltrations were negatively associated with DNM3 gene expression and increased risk of prognosis. Macrophage M1 by QUANTISEQ was positively associated with DNM3 gene expression and increased risk in prognosis. DNM3 gene appears to be associated with various pathways related to inflammation and the immune system. Amplification of the DNM3 gene was detected in 5 out of 175 patients. Enrichment was observed in pathways such as bacterial invasion of epithelial cells, endocytosis, endocrine and other factor-regulated calcium reabsorption, synaptic vesicle cycle, and phospholipase D signaling pathway. According to Gscore, DNM3 gene was associated with Fc epsilon RI signaling pathway, HALLMARK MTORC1 SIGNALING, HALLMARK EPITHELIAL MESENCHYMAL TRANSITION gene sets. According to ENCORI, DNM3 gene was negatively correlated with hsa-miR-203a-3p and increased expression of this miRNA was associated with adverse prognosis in PAAD.

CONCLUSIONS

The DNM3 gene may play a tumor suppressor role in pancreatic cancer, similar to its role in other malignancies. The contribution of immune cells may also be significant in this effect. However, in vitro studies are needed to elucidate the mechanisms triggered in pancreatic cancer.

Bioinformatic analysis of ferroptosis related biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets in vitiligo

Vitiligo is a complex autoimmune skin disorder characterized by depigmentation and immune dysregulation. To elucidate the role of ferroptosis-related genes (FRGs) in vitiligo, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of gene expression data from the GSE53146 and GSE65127 datasets obtained from the GEO database. We identified 31 differentially expressed FRGs (DE-FRGs), with 21 genes upregulated and 10 downregulated. Functional enrichment analysis revealed that these DE-FRGs are significantly involved in oxidative stress, immune regulation, and vitiligo-associated signaling pathways. Utilizing machine learning approaches, including LASSO and SVM-RFE, we identified four key marker genes (ALOX5, SNCA, SLC1A4, and IL33) with strong diagnostic potential. Immune landscape analysis demonstrated that these marker genes influence immune cell composition, particularly showing correlations with CD8 + T cells and regulatory T cells. Furthermore, drug-gene interaction analysis proposed potential therapeutic targets, while ceRNA network analysis uncovered intricate regulatory relationships involving miRNAs and lncRNAs. Collectively, our findings provide novel insights into the molecular mechanisms underpinning vitiligo and suggest new avenues for diagnostic and therapeutic development.

Targeting the JAK-STAT pathway in colorectal cancer: mechanisms, clinical implications, and therapeutic potential

Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains one of the most prevalent and fatal malignancies worldwide, consistently ranking among the top three in terms of incidence and mortality. Despite notable advancements in early detection and therapeutic interventions, survival outcomes for advanced-stage CRC are still dismal, largely due to issues such as drug resistance and metastasis. Recent research has increasingly implicated the JAK-STAT signaling pathway as a pivotal contributor to CRC pathogenesis. This evolutionarily conserved pathway plays a key role in transmitting extracellular signals to the nucleus, thereby modulating gene expression involved in numerous fundamental biological processes. In CRC, dysregulation of the JAK-STAT pathway is frequently observed and is strongly associated with tumor progression, including processes such as cellular proliferation, apoptosis, metastasis, immune evasion, and the sustenance of cancer stem cells. Given its integral role in CRC advancement, the JAK-STAT pathway has gained recognition as a viable therapeutic target. Extensive evidence from preclinical and clinical models supports the efficacy and safety of targeting components of the JAK-STAT pathway, presenting new therapeutic possibilities for patients with CRC, particularly in addressing drug resistance and enhancing treatment outcomes. This review offers a detailed exploration of the JAK-STAT pathway, focusing on its regulatory mechanisms in CRC-related malignancies. Moreover, it examines the association between JAK-STAT protein expression, clinical features, prognosis, and its therapeutic potential in CRC management.

Mechanism of LMNB1 activating GPR84 through JAK-STAT pathway to mediate M2 macrophage polarization in lung cancer

BACKGROUND

It is reported that G protein-coupled receptor 84 (GPR84) can participate in inflammation and immune regulation to repress anti-tumor responses. However, the function of GPR84 in lung cancer (LC) and its potential molecular mechanisms are still largely unknown.

METHODS

Bioinformatics and molecular experiments were employed to assess the expression of GPR84 in LC. The pathways enriched by GPR84 were analyzed by the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes. Bioinformatics prediction identified the potential upstream regulatory factors of GPR84, which were verified through dual luciferase and chromatin immunoprecipitation experiments. Cell viability was measured by methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium assay. The expression levels of key proteins related to the janus kinase (JAK)-signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) pathway such as JAK2, p-JAK2, p-STAT3, and STAT3 were detected by western blot. Macrophages were co-cultured with LC cells. Flow cytometry was employed to examine the proportion of mannose receptor-positive cells. The expression levels of M2 polarization marker genes chitinase-like protein 3, arginase-1, and found in inflammatory zone 1 were measured by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. We applied an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay to determine levels of cytokines (interleukin-10 and transforming growth factor beta) to evaluate the M2 macrophage polarization.

RESULTS

GPR84 was highly expressed in LC and substantially enriched in the JAK-STAT pathway. GPR84 facilitated the M2 polarization of macrophages in LC. Adding the JAK-STAT pathway inhibitor weakened the promoting effect of GPR84 overexpression on M2 macrophage polarization. Furthermore, GPR84 also had an upstream regulatory factor lamin B1 (LMNB1). Knocking down LMNB1 blocked the JAK-STAT signaling pathway to repress M2 macrophage polarization in LC, while overexpression of GPR84 reversed the impact of LMNB1 knockdown on macrophage polarization.

CONCLUSION

The project suggested that the LMNB1/GPR84 axis can facilitate M2 polarization of macrophages in LC by triggering the JAK-STAT pathway. Targeting LMNB1/GPR84 or blocking the JAK-STAT pathway may be a novel approach for LC diagnosis and treatment.

Gut microbiota of miR-30a-5p-deleted mice aggravate high-fat diet-induced hepatic steatosis by regulating arachidonic acid metabolic pathway

BACKGROUND

Patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) often exhibit hepatic steatosis and dyslipidemia. Studies have shown that intestinal microorganisms are closely related to the occurrence of NAFLD and atherosclerosis. Our previous study has underscored the protective role of microRNA-30a-5p (miR-30a-5p) against atherosclerosis.

METHODS AND RESULTS

In the present study, we aimed to elucidate the effect and underlying mechanism of the intestinal microorganisms of miR-30a-5p knockout (KO) mice on NAFLD. Our findings demonstrated that KO exacerbated high-fat diet (HFD)-induced hepatic steatosis and disrupted liver function, as evidenced by elevated levels of total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate transaminase, and total bile acids in serum. Fecal microbiota from HFD-fed KO mice induced hepatic steatosis, dyslipidemia, and higher levels of enzymes indicative of liver damage in wild-type mice. Remarkably, KO mice significantly intensified the above effects. 16s rDNA sequencing and metabolomics of the intestinal microbiota in the HFD-treated KO and WT mice showed that the loss of miR-30a-5p resulted in intestinal microbiota imbalance and was highly related to the arachidonic acid metabolic pathway. Targeted metabolomic in the liver tissues unveiled upregulation of COX-related (PGF2a, 8-iso-PGF2a and PGF2) and LOX-related (LTB4, LTD4, 12S-HETE and 15S-HETE) factors in HFD-treated KO mice. Immunohistochemistry and transcriptional analyses showed that miR-30a-5p affected arachidonic acid metabolism through the LOX/COX pathways. Besides, COX/LOX pathways and hepatic steatosis were reversed after reintroducing miR-30a-5p in HFD-treated KO mice.

CONCLUSIONS

This study reveals the pivotal mechanism by which miR-30a-5p and intestinal microbes regulate hepatic steatosis and abnormal lipid metabolism, offering promising avenues for NAFLD and atherosclerosis therapeutics.

HIGHLIGHTS

MiR-30a-5p deletion aggravated hepatic steatosis and lipid disorder induced by an HFD in mice. Gut microbiota participated in the regulation of hepatic steatosis in the context of miR-30a-5p. Gut microbiota metabolism-related arachidonic acid metabolic pathway contributed to miR-30a-5p-regulated hepatic steatosis and lipid disorder. Reintroducing miR-30a-5p reversed hepatic steatosis and arachidonic acid metabolism disorder caused by HFD and miR-30a-5p deletion.

Tumor‑associated macrophages activated in the tumor environment of hepatocellular carcinoma: Characterization and treatment (Review)

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tissue is rich in dendritic cells, T cells, B cells, macrophages, natural killer cells and cellular stroma. Together they form the tumor microenvironment (TME), which is also rich in numerous cytokines. Tumor‑associated macrophages (TAMs) are involved in the regulation of tumor development. TAMs in HCC receive stimuli in different directions, polarize in different directions and release different cytokines to regulate the development of HCC. TAMs are mostly divided into two cell phenotypes: M1 and M2. M1 TAMs secrete pro‑inflammatory mediators, and M2 TAMs secrete a variety of anti‑inflammatory and pro‑tumorigenic substances. The TAM polarization in HCC tumors is M2. Both direct and indirect methods for TAMs to regulate the development of HCC are discussed. TAMs indirectly support HCC development by promoting peripheral angiogenesis and regulating the immune microenvironment of the TME. In terms of the direct regulation between TAMs and HCC cells, the present review mainly focuses on the molecular mechanism. TAMs are involved in both the proliferation and apoptosis of HCC cells to regulate the quantitative changes of HCC, and stimulate the related invasive migratory ability and cell stemness of HCC cells. The present review aims to identify immunotherapeutic options based on the mechanisms of TAMs in the TME of HCC.

The complex role of macrophages in pancreatic cancer tumor microenvironment: a review on cancer progression and potential therapeutic targets

Pancreatic cancer (PC) is one of the deadliest cancers worldwide with low survival rates and poor outcomes. The treatment landscape for PC is fraught with obstacles, including drug resistance, lack of effective targeted therapies and the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). The resistance of PC to existing immunotherapies highlights the need for innovative approaches, with the TME emerging as a promising therapeutic target. The recent advancements in understanding the role of macrophages, this context highlight their significant impact on tumor development and progression. There are two important types of macrophages: M1 and M2, which play critical roles in the TME. Therapeutics strategies including, depletion of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), reprogramming TAMs to promote anti-tumor activity, and targeting macrophage recruitment can lead to promising outcomes. Targeting macrophage-related pathways may offer novel strategies for modulating immune responses, inhibiting angiogenesis, and overcoming resistance to chemotherapy in PC treatment.

Abnormal Histopathological Expression of Klotho, Ferroptosis, and Circadian Clock Regulators in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: Prognostic Implications and Correlation Analyses

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an extremely lethal tumor with increasing incidence, presenting numerous clinical challenges. The histopathological examination of novel, unexplored biomarkers offers a promising avenue for research, with significant translational potential for improving patient outcomes. In this study, we evaluated the prognostic significance of ferroptosis markers (TFRC, ALOX-5, ACSL-4, and GPX-4), circadian clock regulators (CLOCK, BMAL1, PER1, PER2), and KLOTHO in a retrospective cohort of 41 patients deceased by PDAC. Immunohistochemical techniques (IHC) and multiple statistical analyses (Kaplan-Meier curves, correlograms, and multinomial linear regression models) were performed. Our findings reveal that ferroptosis markers are directly associated with PDAC mortality, while circadian regulators and KLOTHO are inversely associated. Notably, TFRC emerged as the strongest risk marker associated with mortality (HR = 35.905), whereas CLOCK was identified as the most significant protective marker (HR = 0.01832). Correlation analyses indicate that ferroptosis markers are positively correlated with each other, as are circadian regulators, which also positively correlate with KLOTHO expression. In contrast, KLOTHO and circadian regulators exhibit inverse correlations with ferroptosis markers. Among the clinical variables examined, only the presence of chronic pathologies showed an association with the expression patterns of several proteins studied. These findings underscore the complexity of PDAC pathogenesis and highlight the need for further research into the specific molecular mechanisms driving disease progression.

Mechanism insights and therapeutic intervention of tumor metastasis: latest developments and perspectives

Metastasis remains a pivotal characteristic of cancer and is the primary contributor to cancer-associated mortality. Despite its significance, the mechanisms governing metastasis are not fully elucidated. Contemporary findings in the domain of cancer biology have shed light on the molecular aspects of this intricate process. Tumor cells undergoing invasion engage with other cellular entities and proteins en route to their destination. Insights into these engagements have enhanced our comprehension of the principles directing the movement and adaptability of metastatic cells. The tumor microenvironment plays a pivotal role in facilitating the invasion and proliferation of cancer cells by enabling tumor cells to navigate through stromal barriers. Such attributes are influenced by genetic and epigenetic changes occurring in the tumor cells and their surrounding milieu. A profound understanding of the metastatic process's biological mechanisms is indispensable for devising efficacious therapeutic strategies. This review delves into recent developments concerning metastasis-associated genes, important signaling pathways, tumor microenvironment, metabolic processes, peripheral immunity, and mechanical forces and cancer metastasis. In addition, we combine recent advances with a particular emphasis on the prospect of developing effective interventions including the most popular cancer immunotherapies and nanotechnology to combat metastasis. We have also identified the limitations of current research on tumor metastasis, encompassing drug resistance, restricted animal models, inadequate biomarkers and early detection methods, as well as heterogeneity among others. It is anticipated that this comprehensive review will significantly contribute to the advancement of cancer metastasis research.

TREM2 deficiency aggravates renal injury by promoting macrophage apoptosis and polarization via the JAK-STAT pathway in mice

The triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 2 (TREM2) is an immune receptor that affects cellular phenotypes by modulating phagocytosis and metabolism, promoting cell survival, and counteracting inflammation. Its role in renal injury, in particular, unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) or ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI)-induced renal injury remains unclear. In our study, WT and Trem2-/- mice were employed to evaluate the role of TREM2 in renal macrophage infiltration and tissue injury after UUO. Bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDM) from both mouse genotypes were cultured and polarized for in vitro experiments. Next, the effects of TREM2 on renal injury and macrophage polarization in IRI mice were also explored. We found that TREM2 expression was upregulated in the obstructed kidneys. TREM2 deficiency exacerbated renal inflammation and fibrosis 3 and 7 days after UUO, in association with reduced macrophage infiltration. Trem2-/- BMDM exhibited increased apoptosis and poorer survival compared with WT BMDM. Meanwhile, TREM2 deficiency augmented M1 and M2 polarization after UUO. Consistent with the in vivo observations, TREM2 deficiency led to increased polarization of BMDM towards the M1 proinflammatory phenotype. Mechanistically, TREM2 deficiency promoted M1 and M2 polarization via the JAK-STAT pathway in the presence of TGF-β1, thereby affecting cell survival by regulating mTOR signaling. Furthermore, cyclocreatine supplementation alleviated cell death caused by TREM2 deficiency. Additionally, we found that TREM2 deficiency promoted renal injury, fibrosis, and macrophage polarization in IRI mice. The current data suggest that TREM2 deficiency aggravates renal injury by promoting macrophage apoptosis and polarization via the JAK-STAT pathway. These findings have implications for the role of TREM2 in the regulation of renal injury that justify further evaluation.

Nanomaterials modulate tumor-associated macrophages for the treatment of digestive system tumors

The treatment of digestive system tumors presents challenges, particularly in immunotherapy, owing to the advanced immune tolerance of the digestive system. Nanomaterials have emerged as a promising approach for addressing these challenges. They provide targeted drug delivery, enhanced permeability, high bioavailability, and low toxicity. Additionally, nanomaterials target immunosuppressive cells and reshape the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME). Among the various cells in the TIME, tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are the most abundant and play a crucial role in tumor progression. Therefore, investigating the modulation of TAMs by nanomaterials for the treatment of digestive system tumors is of great significance. Here, we present a comprehensive review of the utilization of nanomaterials to modulate TAMs for the treatment of gastric cancer, colorectal cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, and pancreatic cancer. We also investigated the underlying mechanisms by which nanomaterials modulate TAMs to treat tumors in the digestive system. Furthermore, this review summarizes the role of macrophage-derived nanomaterials in the treatment of digestive system tumors. Overall, this research offers valuable insights into the development of nanomaterials tailored for the treatment of digestive system tumors.

Qijiao Shengbai Capsule alleviated leukopenia by interfering leukotriene pathway: Integrated network study of multi-omics

BACKGROUND

Leukopenia could be induced by chemotherapy, which leads to bone marrow suppression and even affects the therapeutic progression of cancer. Qijiao Shengbai Capsule (QSC) has been used for the treatment of leukopenia in clinic, but its bioactive components and mechanisms have not yet been elucidated clearly.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of QSC in treating leukopenia.

STUDY DESIGN

Serum pharmacochemistry, multi-omics, network pharmacology, and validation experiment were combined to study the effect of QSC in murine leukopenia model.

METHODS

First, UPLC-QTOF-MS was used to clarify the absorbed components of QSC. Then, cyclophosphamide (CTX) was used to induce mice model with leukopenia, and the therapeutic efficacy of QSC was assessed by an integrative approach of multi-omics and network pharmacology strategy. Finally, molecular mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets were identified by validated experiments.

RESULTS

121 compounds absorbed in vivo were identified. QSC significantly increase the count of white blood cells (WBCs) in peripheral blood of leukopenia mice with 15 days treatment. Multi-omics and network pharmacology revealed that leukotriene pathway and MAPK signaling pathway played crucial roles during the treatment of leukopenia with QSC. Six targets (ALOX5, LTB4R, CYSLTR1, FOS, JUN, IL-1β) and 13 prototype compounds were supposed to be the key targets and potential active components, respectively. The validation experiment further confirmed that QSC could effectively inhibit the inflammatory response induced by leukopenia. The inhibitors of ALOX5 activity can significantly increase the number of WBCs in leukopenia mice. Molecular docking of ALOX5 suggested that calycosin, daidzein, and medicarpin were the potentially active compounds of QSC.

CONCLUSION

Leukotriene pathway was found for the first time to be a key role in the development of leukopenia, and ALOX5 was conformed as the potential target. QSC may inhibit the inflammatory response and interfere the leukotriene pathway, it is able to improve hematopoiesis and achieve therapeutic effects in the mice with leukopenia.

The Pivotal Role of Macrophages in the Pathogenesis of Pancreatic Diseases

The pancreas is an organ with both exocrine and endocrine functions, comprising a highly organized and complex tissue microenvironment composed of diverse cellular and non-cellular components. The impairment of microenvironmental homeostasis, mediated by the dysregulation of cell-to-cell crosstalk, can lead to pancreatic diseases such as pancreatitis, diabetes, and pancreatic cancer. Macrophages, key immune effector cells, can dynamically modulate their polarization status between pro-inflammatory (M1) and anti-inflammatory (M2) modes, critically influencing the homeostasis of the pancreatic microenvironment and thus playing a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of the pancreatic disease. This review aims to summarize current findings and provide detailed mechanistic insights into how alterations mediated by macrophage polarization contribute to the pathogenesis of pancreatic disorders. By analyzing current research comprehensively, this article endeavors to deepen our mechanistic understanding of regulatory molecules that affect macrophage polarity and the intricate crosstalk that regulates pancreatic function within the microenvironment, thereby facilitating the development of innovative therapeutic strategies that target perturbations in the pancreatic microenvironment.

Lipoxygenases at the Intersection of Infection and Carcinogenesis

The persisting presence of opportunistic pathogens like Pseudomonas aeruginosa poses a significant threat to many immunocompromised cancer patients with pulmonary infections. This review highlights the complexity of interactions in the host's defensive eicosanoid signaling network and its hijacking by pathogenic bacteria to their own advantage. Human lipoxygenases (ALOXs) and their mouse counterparts are integral elements of the innate immune system, mostly operating in the pro-inflammatory mode. Taking into account the indispensable role of inflammation in carcinogenesis, lipoxygenases have counteracting roles in this process. In addition to describing the structure-function of lipoxygenases in this review, we discuss their roles in such critical processes as cancer cell signaling, metastases, death of cancer and immune cells through ferroptosis, as well as the roles of ALOXs in carcinogenesis promoted by pathogenic infections. Finally, we discuss perspectives of novel oncotherapeutic approaches to harness lipoxygenase signaling in tumors.

Reciprocal relationship between cancer stem cells and myeloid-derived suppressor cells: implications for tumor progression and therapeutic strategies

Recently, there has been an increased focus on cancer stem cells (CSCs) due to their resilience, making them difficult to eradicate. This resilience often leads to tumor recurrence and metastasis. CSCs adeptly manipulate their surroundings to create an environment conducive to their survival. In this environment, myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) play a crucial role in promoting epithelial-mesenchymal transition and bolstering CSCs' stemness. In response, CSCs attract MDSCs, enhancing their infiltration, expansion and immunosuppressive capabilities. This interaction between CSCs and MDSCs increases the difficulty of antitumor therapy. In this paper, we discuss the interplay between CSCs and MDSCs based on current research and highlight recent therapeutic strategies targeting either CSCs or MDSCs that show promise in achieving effective antitumor outcomes.

Breaking the stromal barrier in pancreatic cancer: Advances and challenges

Pancreatic cancer (PC) remains a leading cause of mortality worldwide due to the absence of early detection methods and the low success rates of traditional therapeutic strategies. Drug resistance in PC is driven by its desmoplastic stroma, which creates a barrier that shields cancer niches and prevents the penetration of drugs. The PC stroma comprises heterogeneous cellular populations and non-cellular components involved in aberrant ECM deposition, immunosuppression, and drug resistance. These components can influence PC development through intricate and complex crosstalk with the PC cells. Understanding how stromal components and cells interact with and influence the invasiveness and refractoriness of PC cells is thus a prerequisite for developing successful stroma-modulating strategies capable of remodeling the PC stroma to alleviate drug resistance and enhance therapeutic outcomes. In this review, we explore how non-cellular and cellular stromal components, including cancer-associated fibroblasts and tumor-associated macrophages, contribute to the immunosuppressive and tumor-promoting effects of the stroma. We also examine the signaling pathways underlying their activation, tumorigenic effects, and interactions with PC cells. Finally, we discuss recent pre-clinical and clinical work aimed at developing and testing novel stroma-modulating agents to alleviate drug resistance and improve therapeutic outcomes in PC.

Deeper insight into ferroptosis: association with Alzheimer's, Parkinson's disease, and brain tumors and their possible treatment by nanomaterials induced ferroptosis

Ferroptosis is an emerging and novel type of iron-dependent programmed cell death which is mainly caused by the excessive deposition of free intracellular iron in the brain cells. This deposited free iron exerts a ferroptosis pathway, resulting in lipid peroxidation (LiPr). There are mainly three ferroptosis pathways viz. iron metabolism-mediated cysteine/glutamate, and LiPr-mediated. Iron is required by the brain as a redox metal for several physiological activities. Due to the iron homeostasis balance disruption, the brain gets adversely affected which further causes neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease, strokes, and brain tumors like glioblastoma (GBS), and glioma. Nanotechnology has played an important role in the prevention and treatment of these NDDs. A synergistic effect of nanomaterials and ferroptosis could prove to be an effective and efficient approach in the field of nanomedicine. In the current review, the authors have highlighted all the latest research in the field of ferroptosis, specifically emphasizing on the role of major molecular key players and various mechanisms involved in the ferroptosis pathway. Moreover, here the authors have also addressed the correlation of ferroptosis with the pathophysiology of NDDs and theragnostic effect of ferroptosis and nanomaterials for the prevention and treatment of NDDs.