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Liu Y, Okesola BO, Osuna de la Peña D, Li W, Lin ML, Trabulo S, Tatari M, Lawlor RT, Scarpa A, Wang W, Knight M, Loessner D, Heeschen C, Mata A, Pearce OMT. A Self-Assembled 3D Model Demonstrates How Stiffness Educates Tumor Cell Phenotypes and Therapy Resistance in Pancreatic Cancer. Adv Healthc Mater 2024; 13:e2301941. [PMID: 38471128 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202301941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is characterized by a dense and stiff extracellular matrix (ECM) associated with tumor progression and therapy resistance. To further the understanding of how stiffening of the tumor microenvironment (TME) contributes to aggressiveness, a three-dimensional (3D) self-assembling hydrogel disease model is developed based on peptide amphiphiles (PAs, PA-E3Y) designed to tailor stiffness. The model displays nanofibrous architectures reminiscent of native TME and enables the study of the invasive behavior of PDAC cells. Enhanced tuneability of stiffness is demonstrated by interacting thermally annealed aqueous solutions of PA-E3Y (PA-E3Yh) with divalent cations to create hydrogels with mechanical properties and ultrastructure similar to native tumor ECM. It is shown that stiffening of PA-E3Yh hydrogels to levels found in PDAC induces ECM deposition, promotes epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), enriches CD133+/CXCR4+ cancer stem cells (CSCs), and subsequently enhances drug resistance. The findings reveal how a stiff 3D environment renders PDAC cells more aggressive and therefore more faithfully recapitulates in vivo tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Liu
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK
- School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, London, E1 4NS, UK
| | - Babatunde O Okesola
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
| | - David Osuna de la Peña
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK
- School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, London, E1 4NS, UK
| | - Weiqi Li
- School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, London, E1 4NS, UK
| | - Meng-Lay Lin
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Sara Trabulo
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Marianthi Tatari
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Rita T Lawlor
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University of Verona, Verona, 37134, Italy
- ARC-Net, Applied Research on Cancer Centre, University of Verona, Verona, 37134, Italy
| | - Aldo Scarpa
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University of Verona, Verona, 37134, Italy
- ARC-Net, Applied Research on Cancer Centre, University of Verona, Verona, 37134, Italy
| | - Wen Wang
- School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, London, E1 4NS, UK
| | - Martin Knight
- Centre for Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, London, E1 4NS, UK
- Centre for Predictive in vitro Models, Queen Mary University of London, London, E1 4NS, UK
| | - Daniela Loessner
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Christopher Heeschen
- Pancreatic Cancer Heterogeneity, Candiolo Cancer Institute - FPO - IRCCS, Candiolo (TO), 10060, Italy
| | - Alvaro Mata
- School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
- Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Oliver M T Pearce
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK
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Micalet A, Upadhyay A, Javanmardi Y, de Brito CG, Moeendarbary E, Cheema U. Patient-specific colorectal-cancer-associated fibroblasts modulate tumor microenvironment mechanics. iScience 2024; 27:110060. [PMID: 38883829 PMCID: PMC11179580 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.110060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play a major role in reorganizing the physical tumor micro-environment and changing tissue stiffness. Herein, using an engineered three-dimensional (3D) model that mimics the tumor's native biomechanical environment, we characterized the changes in matrix stiffness caused by six patient-specific colorectal CAF populations. After 21 days of culture, atomic force microscopy (AFM) was performed to precisely measure the local changes in tissue stiffness. Each CAF population exhibited heterogeneity in remodeling capabilities, with some patient-derived cells stiffening the matrix and others softening it. Tissue stiffening was mainly attributed to active contraction of the matrix by the cells, whereas the softening was due to enzymatic activity of matrix-cleaving proteins. This measured heterogeneity was lost when the CAFs were cocultured with colorectal cancer cells, as all samples significantly soften the tissue. The interplay between cancer cells and CAFs was critical as it altered any heterogeneity exhibited by CAFs alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Auxtine Micalet
- UCL 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
| | - Anuja Upadhyay
- UCL 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
| | - Yousef Javanmardi
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | | | - Emad Moeendarbary
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
- 199 Biotechnologies Ltd, Gloucester Road, London W2 6LD, UK
| | - Umber Cheema
- UCL 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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3
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Ren J, Zhao C, Sun R, Sun J, Lu L, Wu J, Li S, Cui L. Augmented drug resistance of osteosarcoma cells within decalcified bone matrix scaffold: The role of glutamine metabolism. Int J Cancer 2024; 154:1626-1638. [PMID: 38196144 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.34841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
Due to the lack of a precise in vitro model that can mimic the nature microenvironment in osteosarcoma, the understanding of its resistance to chemical drugs remains limited. Here, we report a novel three-dimensional model of osteosarcoma constructed by seeding tumor cells (MG-63 and MNNG/HOS Cl no. 5) within demineralized bone matrix scaffolds. Demineralized bone matrix scaffolds retain the original components of the natural bone matrix (hydroxyapatite and collagen type I), and possess good biocompatibility allowing osteosarcoma cells to proliferate and aggregate into clusters within the pores. Growing within the scaffold conferred elevated resistance to doxorubicin on MG-63 and MNNG/HOS Cl no. 5 cell lines as compared to two-dimensional cultures. Transcriptomic analysis showed an increased enrichment for drug resistance genes along with enhanced glutamine metabolism in osteosarcoma cells in demineralized bone matrix scaffolds. Inhibition of glutamine metabolism resulted in a decrease in drug resistance of osteosarcoma, which could be restored by α-ketoglutarate supplementation. Overall, our study suggests that microenvironmental cues in demineralized bone matrix scaffolds can enhance osteosarcoma drug responses and that targeting glutamine metabolism may be a strategy for treating osteosarcoma drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaxin Ren
- Department of Reconstructive and Regenerative Surgery, Shanghai Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Cheng Zhao
- Department of Reconstructive and Regenerative Surgery, Shanghai Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ruizhu Sun
- Department of Reconstructive and Regenerative Surgery, Shanghai Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian Sun
- Department of Reconstructive and Regenerative Surgery, Shanghai Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Laiya Lu
- Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun Wu
- CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuaijun Li
- Department of Reconstructive and Regenerative Surgery, Shanghai Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lei Cui
- Department of Reconstructive and Regenerative Surgery, Shanghai Tongji Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Department of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Horta CA, Doan K, Yang J. Mechanotransduction pathways in regulating epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity. Curr Opin Cell Biol 2023; 85:102245. [PMID: 37804773 PMCID: PMC10796216 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceb.2023.102245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023]
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) provides structural support for cells and mediates cell-stromal communications. In addition to ECM proteins, mechanical force exerted from the ECM serves as a critical regulator of many biological processes. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a cellular process by which epithelial cells loosen their cellular junctions and migrate and invade in a more mesenchymal fashion. Recent studies show that increasing ECM stiffness can impinge on cellular signaling pathways through mechanotransduction to promote carcinoma cells to undergo EMT, suggesting that mechanical force exerted by the ECM plays a critical role in tumor invasion and metastasis. Here, we highlight recent work utilizing innovative approaches to study mechanotransduction and summarize newly discovered mechanisms by which mechanosensors and responders regulate EMT during tumor progression and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Calista A Horta
- Department of Pharmacology, Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Khoa Doan
- Department of Pharmacology, Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Jing Yang
- Department of Pharmacology, Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA.
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5
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Nojszewska N, Idilli O, Sarkar D, Ahouiyek Z, Arroyo-Berdugo Y, Sandoval C, Amin-Anjum MS, Bowers S, Greaves D, Saeed L, Khan M, Salti S, Al-Shami S, Topoglu H, Punzalan JK, Farias JG, Calle Y. Bone marrow mesenchymal/fibroblastic stromal cells induce a distinctive EMT-like phenotype in AML cells. Eur J Cell Biol 2023; 102:151334. [PMID: 37354622 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2023.151334] [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: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The development of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) like features is emerging as a critical factor involved in the pathogenesis of acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). However, the extracellular signals and the signalling pathways in AML that may regulate EMT remain largely unstudied. We found that the bone marrow (BM) mesenchymal/fibroblastic cell line HS5 induces an EMT-like migratory phenotype in AML cells. AML cells underwent a strong increase of vimentin (VIM) levels that was not mirrored to the same extent by changes of expression of the other EMT core proteins SNAI1 and SNAI2. We validated these particular pattern of co-expression of core-EMT markers in AML cells by performing an in silico analysis using datasets of human tumours. Our data showed that in AML the expression levels of VIM does not completely correlate with the co-expression of core EMT markers observed in epithelial tumours. We also found that vs epithelial tumours, AML cells display a distinct patterns of co-expression of VIM and the actin binding and adhesion regulatory proteins that regulate F-actin dynamics and integrin-mediated adhesions involved in the invasive migration in cells undergoing EMT. We conclude that the BM stroma induces an EMT related pattern of migration in AML cells in a process involving a distinctive regulation of EMT markers and of regulators of cell adhesion and actin dynamics that should be further investigated. Understanding the tumour specific signalling pathways associated with the EMT process may contribute to the development of new tailored therapies for AML as well as in different types of cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Nojszewska
- School of Life and Health Sciences, University of Roehampton, London SW15 4JD, UK
| | - O Idilli
- School of Life and Health Sciences, University of Roehampton, London SW15 4JD, UK
| | - D Sarkar
- School of Life and Health Sciences, University of Roehampton, London SW15 4JD, UK
| | - Z Ahouiyek
- School of Life and Health Sciences, University of Roehampton, London SW15 4JD, UK
| | - Y Arroyo-Berdugo
- School of Life and Health Sciences, University of Roehampton, London SW15 4JD, UK
| | - C Sandoval
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - M S Amin-Anjum
- School of Life and Health Sciences, University of Roehampton, London SW15 4JD, UK
| | - S Bowers
- School of Life and Health Sciences, University of Roehampton, London SW15 4JD, UK
| | - D Greaves
- School of Life and Health Sciences, University of Roehampton, London SW15 4JD, UK
| | - L Saeed
- School of Life and Health Sciences, University of Roehampton, London SW15 4JD, UK
| | - M Khan
- School of Life and Health Sciences, University of Roehampton, London SW15 4JD, UK
| | - S Salti
- School of Life and Health Sciences, University of Roehampton, London SW15 4JD, UK
| | - S Al-Shami
- School of Life and Health Sciences, University of Roehampton, London SW15 4JD, UK
| | - H Topoglu
- School of Life and Health Sciences, University of Roehampton, London SW15 4JD, UK
| | - J K Punzalan
- School of Life and Health Sciences, University of Roehampton, London SW15 4JD, UK
| | - J G Farias
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - Y Calle
- School of Life and Health Sciences, University of Roehampton, London SW15 4JD, UK.
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6
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Hu H, Yin Y, Jiang B, Feng Z, Cai T, Wu S. Cuproptosis signature and PLCD3 predicts immune infiltration and drug responses in osteosarcoma. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1156455. [PMID: 37007130 PMCID: PMC10060837 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1156455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Osteosarcoma (OS) is a cancer that is frequently found in children and adolescents and has made little improvement in terms of prognosis in recent years. A recently discovered type of programmed cell death called cuproptosis is mediated by copper ions and the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle. The expression patterns, roles, and prognostic and predictive capabilities of the cuproptosis regulating genes were investigated in this work. TARGET and GEO provided transcriptional profiling of OS. To find different cuproptosis gene expression patterns, consensus clustering was used. To identify hub genes linked to cuproptosis, differential expression (DE) and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) were used. Cox regression and Random Survival Forest were used to build an evaluation model for prognosis. For various clusters/subgroups, GSVA, mRNAsi, and other immune infiltration experiments were carried out. The drug-responsive study was carried out by the Oncopredict algorithm. Cuproptosis genes displayed two unique patterns of expression, and high expression of FDX1 was associated with a poor outcome in OS patients. The TCA cycle and other tumor-promoting pathways were validated by the functional study, and activation of the cuproptosis genes may also be connected with immunosuppressive state. The robust survival prediction ability of a five-gene prognostic model was verified. This rating method also took stemness and immunosuppressive characteristics into account. Additionally, it can be associated with a higher sensitivity to medications that block PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling as well as numerous chemoresistances. U2OS cell migration and proliferation may be encouraged by PLCD3. The relevance of PLCD3 in immunotherapy prediction was verified. The prognostic significance, expressing patterns, and functions of cuproptosis in OS were revealed in this work on a preliminary basis. The cuproptosis-related scoring model worked well for predicting prognosis and chemoresistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai Hu
- Department of Orthopedics, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yuesong Yin
- Department of Orthopedics, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Binbin Jiang
- Department of Orthopedics, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhennan Feng
- Department of Orthopedics, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Ting Cai
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- *Correspondence: Ting Cai, ; Song Wu,
| | - Song Wu
- Department of Orthopedics, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- *Correspondence: Ting Cai, ; Song Wu,
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Regulation of the Epithelial to Mesenchymal Transition in Osteosarcoma. Biomolecules 2023; 13:biom13020398. [PMID: 36830767 PMCID: PMC9953423 DOI: 10.3390/biom13020398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a cellular process that has been linked to the promotion of aggressive cellular features in many cancer types. It is characterized by the loss of the epithelial cell phenotype and a shift to a more mesenchymal phenotype and is accompanied by an associated change in cell markers. EMT is highly complex and regulated via multiple signaling pathways. While the importance of EMT is classically described for carcinomas-cancers of epithelial origin-it has also been clearly demonstrated in non-epithelial cancers, including osteosarcoma (OS), a primary bone cancer predominantly affecting children and young adults. Recent studies examining EMT in OS have highlighted regulatory roles for multiple proteins, non-coding nucleic acids, and components of the tumor micro-environment. This review serves to summarize these experimental findings, identify key families of regulatory molecules, and identify potential therapeutic targets specific to the EMT process in OS.
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Zhou Z, Suo Y, Bai J, Lin F, Gao X, Shan H, Ni Y, Zhou X, Sheng L, Dai J. Matrix Stiffness Activating YAP/TEAD1-Cyclin B1 in Nucleus Pulposus Cells Promotes Intervertebral Disc Degeneration. Aging Dis 2023:AD.2023.00205. [PMID: 37196128 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2023.00205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Intervertebral disc degeneration is a leading cause of disability in the elderly population. Rigid extracellular matrix is a critical pathological feature of disc degeneration, leading to aberrant nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs) proliferation. However, the underlying mechanism is unclear. Here, we hypothesize that increased matrix stiffness induces proliferation and thus degenerative phenotypes of NPCs through YAP/TEAD1 signaling pathway. We established hydrogel substrates to mimic stiffness of degenerated human nucleus pulposus tissues. RNA-sequencing identified differentially expressed genes between primary rat NPCs cultured on rigid and soft hydrogels. Dual luciferase assay and gain- and loss-function experiments evaluated the correlation between YAP/TEAD1 and Cyclin B1. Furthermore, single-cell RNA-sequencing of human NPCs was performed to identify specific cell clusters with high YAP expression. Matrix stiffness increased in severely degenerated human nucleus pulposus tissues (p < 0.05). Rigid substrate enhanced rat NPCs proliferation mainly through Cyclin B1, which was directly targeted and positively regulated by YAP/TEAD1. Depletion of YAP or Cyclin B1 arrested G2/M phase progression of rat NPCs and reduced fibrotic phenotypes including MMP13 and CTGF (p < 0.05). Fibro NPCs with high YAP expression were identified in human tissues and responsible for fibrogenesis during degeneration. Furthermore, inhibition of YAP/TEAD interaction by verteporfin suppressed cell proliferation and alleviated degeneration in the disc needle puncture model (p < 0.05). Our results demonstrate that elevated matrix stiffness stimulates fibro NPCs proliferation through YAP/TEAD1-Cyclin B1 axis, indicating a therapeutic target for disc degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zijie Zhou
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yinxuan Suo
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jinyu Bai
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Fanguo Lin
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiang Gao
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Huajian Shan
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yichao Ni
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaozhong Zhou
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lei Sheng
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jun Dai
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
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9
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The Role of Tumor Microenvironment in Regulating the Plasticity of Osteosarcoma Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232416155. [PMID: 36555795 PMCID: PMC9788144 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232416155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Osteosarcoma (OS) is a malignancy that is becoming increasingly common in adolescents. OS stem cells (OSCs) form a dynamic subset of OS cells that are responsible for malignant progression and chemoradiotherapy resistance. The unique properties of OSCs, including self-renewal, multilineage differentiation and metastatic potential, 149 depend closely on their tumor microenvironment. In recent years, the likelihood of its dynamic plasticity has been extensively studied. Importantly, the tumor microenvironment appears to act as the main regulatory component of OS cell plasticity. For these reasons aforementioned, novel strategies for OS treatment focusing on modulating OS cell plasticity and the possibility of modulating the composition of the tumor microenvironment are currently being explored. In this paper, we review recent studies describing the phenomenon of OSCs and factors known to influence phenotypic plasticity. The microenvironment, which can regulate OSC plasticity, has great potential for clinical exploitation and provides different perspectives for drug and treatment design for OS.
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Motofei IG. Biology of cancer; from cellular and molecular mechanisms to developmental processes and adaptation. Semin Cancer Biol 2022; 86:600-615. [PMID: 34695580 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2021.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Cancer research has been largely focused on the cellular and molecular levels of investigation. Recent data show that not only the cell but also the extracellular matrix plays a major role in the progression of malignancy. In this way, the cells and the extracellular matrix create a specific local microenvironment that supports malignant development. At the same time, cancer implies a systemic evolution which is closely related to developmental processes and adaptation. Consequently, there is currently a real gap between the local investigation of cancer at the microenvironmental level, and the pathophysiological approach to cancer as a systemic disease. In fact, the cells and the matrix are not only complementary structures but also interdependent components that act synergistically. Such relationships lead to cell-matrix integration, a supracellular form of biological organization that supports tissue development. The emergence of this supracellular level of organization, as a structure, leads to the emergence of the supracellular control of proliferation, as a supracellular function. In humans, proliferation is generally involved in developmental processes and adaptation. These processes suppose a specific configuration at the systemic level, which generates high-order guidance for local supracellular control of proliferation. In conclusion, the supracellular control of proliferation act as an interface between the downstream level of cell division and differentiation, and upstream level of developmental processes and adaptation. Understanding these processes and their disorders is useful not only to complete the big picture of malignancy as a systemic disease, but also to open new treatment perspectives in the form of etiopathogenic (supracellular or informational) therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ion G Motofei
- Department of Oncology/ Surgery, Carol Davila University, St. Pantelimon Hospital, Dionisie Lupu Street, No. 37, Bucharest, 020021, Romania.
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11
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Melcher ML, Block I, Kropf K, Singh AK, Posern G. Interplay of the transcription factor MRTF-A and matrix stiffness controls mammary acinar structure and protrusion formation. Cell Commun Signal 2022; 20:158. [PMID: 36229824 PMCID: PMC9563482 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-022-00977-2] [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: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Ongoing differentiation processes characterize the mammary gland during sexual development and reproduction. In contrast, defective remodelling is assumed to be causal for breast tumorigenesis. We have shown recently that the myocardin-related transcription factor A (MRTF-A) is essential for forming regular hollow acinar structures. Moreover, MRTF-A activity is known to depend on the biochemical and physical properties of the surrounding extracellular matrix. In this study we analysed the mutual interaction of different matrix stiffnesses and MRTF-A activities on formation and maintenance of mammary acini. Methods Human MCF10A acini and primary mature organoids isolated from murine mammary glands were cultivated in 3D on soft and stiff matrices (200–4000 Pa) in conjunction with the Rho/MRTF/SRF pathway inhibitor CCG-203971 and genetic activation of MRTF-A. Results Three-dimensional growth on stiff collagen matrices (> 3000 Pa) was accompanied by increased MRTF-A activity and formation of invasive protrusions in acini cultures of human mammary MCF10A cells. Differential coating and synthetic hydrogels indicated that protrusion formation was attributable to stiffness but not the biochemical constitution of the matrix. Stiffness-induced protrusion formation was also observed in preformed acini isolated from murine mammary glands. Acinar outgrowth in both the MCF10A acini and the primary organoids was partially reverted by treatment with the Rho/MRTF/SRF pathway inhibitor CCG-203971. However, genetic activation of MRTF-A in the mature primary acini also reduced protrusion formation on stiff matrices, whilst it strongly promoted luminal filling matrix-independently. Conclusion Our results suggest an intricate crosstalk between matrix stiffness and MRTF-A, whose activity is required for protrusion formation and sufficient for luminal filling of mammary acini. Video Abstract
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12964-022-00977-2. Formation of mammary acini depends on crosstalk between matrix stiffness and MRTF-A
Increased matrix stiffness elevates MRTF-A activity and protrusion formation Protrusion formation of MCF10A-derived and primary murine acini is MRTF-dependent
Genetic MRTF-A activation in primary organoids is sufficient for luminal filling
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Luise Melcher
- Institute for Physiological Chemistry, Medical Faculty, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06114, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Ines Block
- Institute for Physiological Chemistry, Medical Faculty, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06114, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Karolin Kropf
- Institute for Physiological Chemistry, Medical Faculty, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06114, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Anurag Kumar Singh
- Institute for Physiological Chemistry, Medical Faculty, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06114, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Guido Posern
- Institute for Physiological Chemistry, Medical Faculty, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, 06114, Halle (Saale), Germany.
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12
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Tang X, Zhang Y, Mao J, Wang Y, Zhang Z, Wang Z, Yang H. Effects of substrate stiffness on the viscoelasticity and migration of prostate cancer cells examined by atomic force microscopy. BEILSTEIN JOURNAL OF NANOTECHNOLOGY 2022; 13:560-569. [PMID: 35860456 PMCID: PMC9263554 DOI: 10.3762/bjnano.13.47] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The stiffness of the extracellular matrix of tumour cells plays a key role in tumour cell metastasis. However, it is unclear how mechanical properties regulate the cellular response to the environmental matrix. In this study, atomic force microscopy (AFM) and laser confocal imaging were used to qualitatively evaluate the relationship between substrate stiffness and migration of prostate cancer (PCa) cells. Cells cultured on stiff substrates (35 kPa) undergone several interesting phenomena compared to those on soft substrates (3 kPa). Here, the stimulation generated by the stiff substrates triggered the F-actin skeleton to bundle its filaments, increasing the polarity index of the external contour of PCa cells. Analysis of AFM force-distance curves indicated that the elasticity of the cells cultured on 35 kPa substrates increased while the viscosity decreased. Wound-healing experiments showed that PCa cells cultured on 35 kPa substrates have higher migration potential. These phenomena suggested that the mechanical properties may be correlated with the migration of PCa cells. After actin depolymerisation, the elasticity of the PCa cells decreased while the viscosity increased, and the migration ability was correspondingly decreased. In conclusion, this study clearly demonstrated the relationship between substrate stiffness and the mechanical properties of cells in prostate tumour metastasis, providing a basis for understanding the changes in the biomechanical properties at a single-cell level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqiong Tang
- Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Science and Technology for Medicine of Ministry of Education, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory for Photonics Technology, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou 350007, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Science and Technology for Medicine of Ministry of Education, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory for Photonics Technology, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou 350007, China
| | - Jiangbing Mao
- Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Science and Technology for Medicine of Ministry of Education, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory for Photonics Technology, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou 350007, China
| | - Yuhua Wang
- Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Science and Technology for Medicine of Ministry of Education, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory for Photonics Technology, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou 350007, China
| | - Zhenghong Zhang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory for Developmental Biology and Neurosciences, College of Life Sciences, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou 350117, China
| | - Zhengchao Wang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory for Developmental Biology and Neurosciences, College of Life Sciences, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou 350117, China
| | - Hongqin Yang
- Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Science and Technology for Medicine of Ministry of Education, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory for Photonics Technology, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou 350007, China
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13
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Tian H, Shi H, Yu J, Ge S, Ruan J. Biophysics Role and Biomimetic Culture Systems of ECM Stiffness in Cancer EMT. GLOBAL CHALLENGES (HOBOKEN, NJ) 2022; 6:2100094. [PMID: 35712024 PMCID: PMC9189138 DOI: 10.1002/gch2.202100094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Oncological diseases have become the second leading cause of death from noncommunicable diseases worldwide and a major threat to human health. With the continuous progress in cancer research, the mechanical cues from the tumor microenvironment environment (TME) have been found to play an irreplaceable role in the progression of many cancers. As the main extracellular mechanical signal carrier, extracellular matrix (ECM) stiffness may influence cancer progression through biomechanical transduction to modify downstream gene expression, promote epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and regulate the stemness of cancer cells. EMT is an important mechanism that induces cancer cell metastasis and is closely influenced by ECM stiffness, either independently or in conjunction with other molecules. In this review, the unique role of ECM stiffness in EMT in different kinds of cancers is first summarized. By continually examining the significance of ECM stiffness in cancer progression, a biomimetic culture system based on 3D manufacturing and novel material technologies is developed to mimic ECM stiffness. The authors then look back on the novel development of the ECM stiffness biomimetic culture systems and finally provide new insights into ECM stiffness in cancer progression which can broaden the fields' horizons with a view toward developing new cancer diagnosis methods and therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Tian
- Department of OphthalmologyShanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular OncologyNinth People's HospitalShanghai JiaoTong University School of MedicineShanghaiP. R. China
| | - Hanhan Shi
- Department of OphthalmologyShanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular OncologyNinth People's HospitalShanghai JiaoTong University School of MedicineShanghaiP. R. China
| | - Jie Yu
- Department of OphthalmologyShanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular OncologyNinth People's HospitalShanghai JiaoTong University School of MedicineShanghaiP. R. China
| | - Shengfang Ge
- Department of OphthalmologyShanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular OncologyNinth People's HospitalShanghai JiaoTong University School of MedicineShanghaiP. R. China
| | - Jing Ruan
- Department of OphthalmologyShanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular OncologyNinth People's HospitalShanghai JiaoTong University School of MedicineShanghaiP. R. China
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14
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Matrix Stiffness Contributes to Cancer Progression by Regulating Transcription Factors. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14041049. [PMID: 35205794 PMCID: PMC8870363 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14041049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Matrix stiffness is recognized as a critical factor in cancer progression. Recent studies have shown that matrix stiffening is caused by the accumulation, contraction, and crosslinking of the extracellular matrix by cancer and stromal cells. Cancer and stromal cells respond to matrix stiffness, which determines the phenotypes of these cells. In addition, matrix stiffness activates and/or inactivates specific transcription factors in cancer and stromal cells to regulate cancer progression. In this review, we discuss the mechanisms of cancer stiffening and progression that are regulated by transcription factors responding to matrix stiffness. Abstract Matrix stiffness is critical for the progression of various types of cancers. In solid cancers such as mammary and pancreatic cancers, tumors often contain abnormally stiff tissues, mainly caused by stiff extracellular matrices due to accumulation, contraction, and crosslinking. Stiff extracellular matrices trigger mechanotransduction, the conversion of mechanical cues such as stiffness of the matrix to biochemical signaling in the cells, and as a result determine the cellular phenotypes of cancer and stromal cells in tumors. Transcription factors are key molecules for these processes, as they respond to matrix stiffness and are crucial for cellular behaviors. The Yes-associated protein (YAP)/transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) is one of the most studied transcription factors that is regulated by matrix stiffness. The YAP/TAZ are activated by a stiff matrix and promotes malignant phenotypes in cancer and stromal cells, including cancer-associated fibroblasts. In addition, other transcription factors such as β-catenin and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) also play key roles in mechanotransduction in cancer tissues. In this review, the mechanisms of stiffening cancer tissues are introduced, and the transcription factors regulated by matrix stiffness in cancer and stromal cells and their roles in cancer progression are shown.
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15
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Greaves D, Calle Y. Epithelial Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) and Associated Invasive Adhesions in Solid and Haematological Tumours. Cells 2022; 11:649. [PMID: 35203300 PMCID: PMC8869945 DOI: 10.3390/cells11040649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In solid tumours, cancer cells that undergo epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) express characteristic gene expression signatures that promote invasive migration as well as the development of stemness, immunosuppression and drug/radiotherapy resistance, contributing to the formation of currently untreatable metastatic tumours. The cancer traits associated with EMT can be controlled by the signalling nodes at characteristic adhesion sites (focal contacts, invadopodia and microtentacles) where the regulation of cell migration, cell cycle progression and pro-survival signalling converge. In haematological tumours, ample evidence accumulated during the last decade indicates that the development of an EMT-like phenotype is indicative of poor disease prognosis. However, this EMT phenotype has not been directly linked to the assembly of specific forms of adhesions. In the current review we discuss the role of EMT in haematological malignancies and examine its possible link with the progression towards more invasive and aggressive forms of these tumours. We also review the known types of adhesions formed by haematological malignancies and speculate on their possible connection with the EMT phenotype. We postulate that understanding the architecture and regulation of EMT-related adhesions will lead to the discovery of new therapeutic interventions to overcome disease progression and resistance to therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yolanda Calle
- School of Life Sciences and Health, University of Roehampton, London SW15 4JD, UK;
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16
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Johnson RT, Solanki R, Warren DT. Mechanical programming of arterial smooth muscle cells in health and ageing. Biophys Rev 2021; 13:757-768. [PMID: 34745374 PMCID: PMC8553715 DOI: 10.1007/s12551-021-00833-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Arterial smooth muscle cells (ASMCs), the predominant cell type within the arterial wall, detect and respond to external mechanical forces. These forces can be derived from blood flow (i.e. pressure and stretch) or from the supporting extracellular matrix (i.e. stiffness and topography). The healthy arterial wall is elastic, allowing the artery to change shape in response to changes in blood pressure, a property known as arterial compliance. As we age, the mechanical forces applied to ASMCs change; blood pressure and arterial wall rigidity increase and result in a reduction in arterial compliance. These changes in mechanical environment enhance ASMC contractility and promote disease-associated changes in ASMC phenotype. For mechanical stimuli to programme ASMCs, forces must influence the cell's load-bearing apparatus, the cytoskeleton. Comprised of an interconnected network of actin filaments, microtubules and intermediate filaments, each cytoskeletal component has distinct mechanical properties that enable ASMCs to respond to changes within the mechanical environment whilst maintaining cell integrity. In this review, we discuss how mechanically driven cytoskeletal reorganisation programmes ASMC function and phenotypic switching.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Reesha Solanki
- School of Pharmacy, University of East Anglia, Norwich, NR4 7TJ UK
| | - Derek T. Warren
- School of Pharmacy, University of East Anglia, Norwich, NR4 7TJ UK
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17
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Micalet A, Moeendarbary E, Cheema U. 3D In Vitro Models for Investigating the Role of Stiffness in Cancer Invasion. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2021. [PMID: 34081437 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.0c01530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tumorigenesis is attributed to the interactions of cancer cells with the tumor microenvironment through both biochemical cues and physical stimuli. Increased matrix deposition and realignment of the collagen fibers are detected by cancer cells, inducing epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, which in turn stimulates cell motility and invasiveness. METHODS This review provides an overview of current research on the role of the physical microenvironment in cancer invasion. This was achieved by using a systematic approach and providing meta-analyses. Particular focus was placed on in vitro three-dimensional models of epithelial cancers. We investigated questions such as the effect of matrix stiffening, activation of stromal cells, and identified potential advances in mechano-based therapies. RESULTS Meta-analysis revealed that 64% of studies report cancer invasion promotion as stiffness increases, while 36% report the opposite. Experimental approaches and data interpretations were varied, each affecting the invasion of cancer differently. Examples are the experimental timeframes used (24 h to 21 days), the type of polymer used (24 types), and choice of cell line (33 cell lines). The stiffness of the 3D matrices varied from 0.5 to 300 kPa and 19% of these matrices' stiffness were outside commonly accepted physiological range. 100% of the studies outside biological stiffness range (above 20 kPa) report that stiffness does not promote cancer invasion. CONCLUSIONS Taking this analysis into account, we inform on the type of experimental approaches that could be the most relevant and provide what would be a standardized protocol and reporting strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Auxtine Micalet
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University College London (UCL), Torrington Place, London, U.K. WC1E 6BT.,Division of Surgery and Interventional Sciences, UCL Centre for 3D Models of Health and Disease, University College London (UCL), Charles Bell House, London, U.K. W1W 7TS
| | - Emad Moeendarbary
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University College London (UCL), Torrington Place, London, U.K. WC1E 6BT.,Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Umber Cheema
- Division of Surgery and Interventional Sciences, UCL Centre for 3D Models of Health and Disease, University College London (UCL), Charles Bell House, London, U.K. W1W 7TS
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18
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Kong M, Zhang Y, Song M, Cong W, Gao C, Zhang J, Han S, Tu Q, Ma X. Myocardin‑related transcription factor A nuclear translocation contributes to mechanical overload‑induced nucleus pulposus fibrosis in rats with intervertebral disc degeneration. Int J Mol Med 2021; 48:123. [PMID: 33982787 PMCID: PMC8121555 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2021.4956] [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: 12/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have reported that the Ras homolog family member A (RhoA)/myocardin‑related transcription factor A (MRTF‑A) nuclear translocation axis positively regulates fibrogenesis induced by mechanical forces in various organ systems. The aim of the present study was to determine whether this signaling pathway was involved in the pathogenesis of nucleus pulposus (NP) fibrosis induced by mechanical overload during the progression of intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) and to confirm the alleviating effect of an MRTF‑A inhibitor in the treatment of IVDD. NP cells (NPCs) were cultured on substrates of different stiffness (2.9 and 41.7 KPa), which mimicked normal and overloaded microenvironments, and were treated with an inhibitor of MRTF‑A nuclear import, CCG‑1423. In addition, bipedal rats were established by clipping the forelimbs of rats at 1 month and gradually elevating the feeding trough, and in order to establish a long‑term overload‑induced model of IVDD, and their intervertebral discs were injected with CCG‑1423 in situ. Cell viability was determined by Cell Counting Kit‑8 assay, and protein expression was determined by western blotting, immunofluorescence and immunohistochemical staining. The results demonstrated that the viability of NPCs was not affected by the application of force or the inhibitor. In NPCs cultured on stiff matrices, MRTF‑A was mostly localized in the nucleus, and the expression levels of fibrotic proteins, including type I collagen, connective tissue growth factor and α‑smooth muscle cell actin, were upregulated compared with those in NPCs cultured on soft matrices. The levels of these proteins were reduced by CCG‑1423 treatment. In rats, 6 months of upright posture activated MRTF‑A nuclear‑cytoplasmic trafficking and fibrogenesis in the NP and induced IVDD; these effects were alleviated by CCG‑1423 treatment. In conclusion, the results of the present study demonstrated that the RhoA/MRTF‑A translocation pathway may promote mechanical overload‑induced fibrogenic activity in NP tissue and partially elucidated the molecular mechanisms underlying the occurrence of IVDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Kong
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qing'dao, Shandong 266000, P.R. China
| | - Yiran Zhang
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qing'dao, Shandong 266000, P.R. China
| | - Mengxiong Song
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qing'dao, Shandong 266000, P.R. China
| | - Wenbin Cong
- Department of Radiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qing'dao, Shandong 266000, P.R. China
| | - Changtong Gao
- Minimally Invasive Interventional Therapy Center, Qingdao Municipal Hospital, Qing'dao, Shandong 266000, P.R. China
| | - Jiajun Zhang
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qing'dao, Shandong 266000, P.R. China
| | - Shuo Han
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qing'dao, Shandong 266000, P.R. China
| | - Qihao Tu
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qing'dao, Shandong 266000, P.R. China
| | - Xuexiao Ma
- Department of Spinal Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qing'dao, Shandong 266000, P.R. China
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19
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Thai VL, Griffin KH, Thorpe SW, Randall RL, Leach JK. Tissue engineered platforms for studying primary and metastatic neoplasm behavior in bone. J Biomech 2021; 115:110189. [PMID: 33385867 PMCID: PMC7855491 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2020.110189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States, claiming more than 560,000 lives each year. Osteosarcoma (OS) is the most common primary malignant tumor of bone in children and young adults, while bone is a common site of metastasis for tumors initiating from other tissues. The heterogeneity, continual evolution, and complexity of this disease at different stages of tumor progression drives a critical need for physiologically relevant models that capture the dynamic cancer microenvironment and advance chemotherapy techniques. Monolayer cultures have been favored for cell-based research for decades due to their simplicity and scalability. However, the nature of these models makes it impossible to fully describe the biomechanical and biochemical cues present in 3-dimensional (3D) microenvironments, such as ECM stiffness, degradability, surface topography, and adhesivity. Biomaterials have emerged as valuable tools to model the behavior of various cancers by creating highly tunable 3D systems for studying neoplasm behavior, screening chemotherapeutic drugs, and developing novel treatment delivery techniques. This review highlights the recent application of biomaterials toward the development of tumor models, details methods for their tunability, and discusses the clinical and therapeutic applications of these systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria L Thai
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, United States
| | - Katherine H Griffin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, United States; School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, United States
| | - Steven W Thorpe
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, UC Davis Health, Sacramento, CA 95817, United States
| | - R Lor Randall
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, UC Davis Health, Sacramento, CA 95817, United States
| | - J Kent Leach
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA 95616, United States; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, UC Davis Health, Sacramento, CA 95817, United States.
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20
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Chow T, Wutami I, Lucarelli E, Choong PF, Duchi S, Di Bella C. Creating In Vitro Three-Dimensional Tumor Models: A Guide for the Biofabrication of a Primary Osteosarcoma Model. TISSUE ENGINEERING PART B-REVIEWS 2020; 27:514-529. [PMID: 33138724 DOI: 10.1089/ten.teb.2020.0254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Osteosarcoma (OS) is a highly aggressive primary bone tumor. The mainstay for its treatment is multiagent chemotherapy and surgical resection, with a 50-70% 5-year survival rate. Despite the huge effort made by clinicians and researchers in the past 30 years, limited progress has been made to improve patient outcomes. As novel therapeutic approaches for OS become available, such as monoclonal antibodies, small molecules, and immunotherapies, the need for OS preclinical model development becomes equally pressing. Three-dimensional (3D) OS models represent an alternative system to study this tumor: In contrast to two-dimensional monolayers, 3D matrices can recapitulate key elements of the tumor microenvironment (TME), such as the cellular interaction with the bone mineralized matrix. The advancement of tissue engineering and biofabrication techniques enables the incorporation of specific TME aspects into 3D models, to investigate the contribution of individual components to tumor progression and enhance understanding of basic OS biology. The use of biomaterials that mimic the extracellular matrix could also facilitate the testing of drugs targeting the TME itself, allowing a larger range of therapeutics to be tested, while averting the ethical implications and high cost associated with in vivo preclinical models. This review aims at serving as a practical guide by delineating the OS TME ("what it is like") and, in turn, propose various biofabrication strategies to create a 3D model ("how to recreate it"), to improve the in vitro representation of the OS tumor and ultimately generate more accurate drug response profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Chow
- Melbourne Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia.,BioFab3D-ACMD, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, Australia
| | - Ilycia Wutami
- Melbourne Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia.,BioFab3D-ACMD, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, Australia
| | - Enrico Lucarelli
- Unit of Orthopaedic Pathology and Osteoarticular Tissue Regeneration, IRCCS Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli, Bologna, Italy
| | - Peter F Choong
- BioFab3D-ACMD, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, Australia.,Department of Surgery, The University of Melbourne, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, Australia.,Department of Orthopaedics, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, Australia
| | - Serena Duchi
- BioFab3D-ACMD, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, Australia.,Department of Surgery, The University of Melbourne, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, Australia
| | - Claudia Di Bella
- BioFab3D-ACMD, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, Australia.,Department of Surgery, The University of Melbourne, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, Australia.,Department of Orthopaedics, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Fitzroy, Australia
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21
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Choi SR, Yang Y, Huang KY, Kong HJ, Flick MJ, Han B. Engineering of biomaterials for tumor modeling. MATERIALS TODAY. ADVANCES 2020; 8:100117. [PMID: 34541484 PMCID: PMC8448271 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtadv.2020.100117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Development of biomaterials mimicking tumor and its microenvironment has recently emerged for the use of drug discovery, precision medicine, and cancer biology. These biomimetic models have developed by reconstituting tumor and stroma cells within the 3D extracellular matrix. The models are recently extended to recapitulate the in vivo tumor microenvironment, including biological, chemical, and mechanical conditions tailored for specific cancer type and its microenvironment. In spite of the recent emergence of various innovative engineered tumor models, many of these models are still early stage to be adapted for cancer research. In this article, we review the current status of biomaterials engineering for tumor models considering three main aspects - cellular engineering, matrix engineering, and engineering for microenvironmental conditions. Considering cancer-specific variability in these aspects, our discussion is focused on pancreatic cancer, specifically pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). In addition, we further discussed the current challenges and future opportunities to create reliable and relevant tumor models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sae Rome Choi
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Yi Yang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, and Blood Research Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Kai-Yu Huang
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Hyun Joon Kong
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Matthew J. Flick
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, and Blood Research Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Bumsoo Han
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
- Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering and Purdue Center for Cancer Research, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
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22
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Lin Z, Fan Z, Zhang X, Wan J, Liu T. Cellular plasticity and drug resistance in sarcoma. Life Sci 2020; 263:118589. [PMID: 33069737 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2020.118589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2020] [Revised: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Sarcomas, originating from mesenchymal progenitor stem cells, are a group of rare malignant tumors with poor prognosis. Wide surgical resection, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy are the most common sarcoma treatments. However, sarcomas' response rates to chemotherapy are quite low and sarcoma cells can have intrinsic or acquired resistance after treatment with chemotherapeutics drugs, leading to the development of multi-drug resistance (MDR). Cancer cellular plasticity plays pivotal roles in cancer initiation, progression, therapy resistance and cancer relapse. Moreover, cancer cellular plasticity can be regulated by a multitude of factors, such as genetic and epigenetic alterations, tumor microenvironment (TME) or selective pressure imposed by treatment. Recent studies have demonstrated that cellular plasticity is involved in sarcoma progression and chemoresistance. It's essential to understand the molecular mechanisms of cellular plasticity as well as its roles in sarcoma progression and drug resistance. Therefore, this review focuses on the regulatory mechanisms and pathological roles of these diverse cellular plasticity programs in sarcoma. Additionally, we propose cellular plasticity as novel therapeutic targets to reduce sarcoma drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengjun Lin
- Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha 410013, Hunan Province, China.
| | - Zhihua Fan
- Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha 410013, Hunan Province, China
| | - Xianghong Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jia Wan
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Tang Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.
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Targeting Mechanotransduction in Osteosarcoma: A Comparative Oncology Perspective. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21207595. [PMID: 33066583 PMCID: PMC7589883 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21207595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2020] [Revised: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Mechanotransduction is the process in which cells can convert extracellular mechanical stimuli into biochemical changes within a cell. While this a normal process for physiological development and function in many organ systems, tumour cells can exploit this process to promote tumour progression. Here we summarise the current state of knowledge of mechanotransduction in osteosarcoma (OSA), the most common primary bone tumour, referencing both human and canine models and other similar mesenchymal malignancies (e.g., Ewing sarcoma). Specifically, we discuss the mechanical properties of OSA cells, the pathways that these cells utilise to respond to external mechanical cues, and mechanotransduction-targeting strategies tested in OSA so far. We point out gaps in the literature and propose avenues to address them. Understanding how the physical microenvironment influences cell signalling and behaviour will lead to the improved design of strategies to target the mechanical vulnerabilities of OSA cells.
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Li S, Bai H, Chen X, Gong S, Xiao J, Li D, Li L, Jiang Y, Li T, Qin X, Yang H, Wu C, You F, Liu Y. Soft Substrate Promotes Osteosarcoma Cell Self-Renewal, Differentiation, and Drug Resistance Through miR-29b and Its Target Protein Spin 1. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2020; 6:5588-5598. [DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.0c00816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shun Li
- Department of Biophysics, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, Sichuan, P. R. China
| | - Hongxia Bai
- Department of Biophysics, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, Sichuan, P. R. China
| | - Xiangyan Chen
- Department of Biophysics, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, Sichuan, P. R. China
| | - Shengnan Gong
- Department of Biophysics, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, Sichuan, P. R. China
| | - Jinman Xiao
- Department of Biophysics, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, Sichuan, P. R. China
| | - Dan Li
- Department of Biophysics, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, Sichuan, P. R. China
| | - Li Li
- Department of Biophysics, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, Sichuan, P. R. China
| | - Ying Jiang
- Department of Biophysics, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, Sichuan, P. R. China
| | - Tingting Li
- Department of Biophysics, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, Sichuan, P. R. China
| | - Xiang Qin
- Department of Biophysics, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, Sichuan, P. R. China
| | - Hong Yang
- Department of Biophysics, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, Sichuan, P. R. China
| | - Chunhui Wu
- Department of Biophysics, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, Sichuan, P. R. China
| | - Fengming You
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 39 Shi-er-qiao Road, Chengdu 610072, Sichuan, P. R. China
| | - Yiyao Liu
- Department of Biophysics, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, Sichuan, P. R. China
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 39 Shi-er-qiao Road, Chengdu 610072, Sichuan, P. R. China
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25
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Northcutt LA, Suarez-Arnedo A, Rafat M. Emerging Biomimetic Materials for Studying Tumor and Immune Cell Behavior. Ann Biomed Eng 2020; 48:2064-2077. [PMID: 31617045 PMCID: PMC7156320 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-019-02384-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2019] [Accepted: 10/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Cancer is one of the leading causes of death both in the United States and worldwide. The dynamic microenvironment in which tumors grow consists of fibroblasts, immune cells, extracellular matrix (ECM), and cytokines that enable progression and metastasis. Novel biomaterials that mimic these complex surroundings give insight into the biological, chemical, and physical environment that cause cancer cells to metastasize and invade into other tissues. Two-dimensional (2D) cultures are useful for gaining limited information about cancer cell behavior; however, they do not accurately represent the environments that cells experience in vivo. Recent advances in the design and tunability of diverse three-dimensional (3D) biomaterials complement biological knowledge and allow for improved recapitulation of in vivo conditions. Understanding cell-ECM and cell-cell interactions that facilitate tumor survival will accelerate the design of more effective therapies. This review discusses innovative materials currently being used to study tumor and immune cell behavior and interactions, including materials that mimic the ECM composition, mechanical stiffness, and integrin binding sites of the tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Logan A Northcutt
- Program in Cancer Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | | | - Marjan Rafat
- Program in Cancer Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA.
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Engineering and Science Building, Rm. 426, Nashville, TN, 37212, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA.
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.
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26
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DLX6-AS1/miR-204-5p/OCT1 positive feedback loop promotes tumor progression and epithelial-mesenchymal transition in gastric cancer. Gastric Cancer 2020; 23:212-227. [PMID: 31463827 DOI: 10.1007/s10120-019-01002-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 07/29/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Accumulating evidence indicates that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) participate in progression of gastric cancer (GC). Nevertheless, the function and expression level of DLX6-AS1 in GC remain unknown. METHODS We explored the sequencing data of DLX6-AS1 downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas. The expression of DLX6-AS1, miR-204-5p and OCT1 in 56 GC patients and GC cell lines was quantified by qRT-PCR and western blotting. Furthermore, we performed in vitro functional assays to assess proliferation, invasion and migration of GC cells by knockdown of DLX6-AS1. The expression level of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related genes was also determined by qRT-PCR and western blotting. Actin remodeling was detected by F-actin phalloidin staining. The luciferase reporter assay and chromatin immunoprecipitation assay was utilized to confirm the bioinformatic prediction. The function of the DLX6-AS1/miR-204-5p/OCT1 axis in GC proliferation was clarified by rescue assays. RESULTS We first demonstrated that DLX6-AS1 was upregulated in GC tissues and cell lines and was associated with T3/T4 invasion, distant metastasis and poor clinical prognosis. Further functional analysis showed that downregulation of DLX6-AS1 inhibited GC cell proliferation, migration, invasion and EMT in vitro. Mechanistic investigation indicated that DLX6-AS1 acted as a cancer-promoting competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) by binding miR-204-5p and upregulating OCT1. Moreover, the transcription factor OCT1 was confirmed to enhance DLX6-AS1 expression by targeting the promoter region. CONCLUSIONS This study revealed that OCT1-induced DLX6-AS1 promoted GC progression and the EMT via the miR-204-5p/OCT1 axis, suggesting that this lncRNA might be a promising prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target for GC.
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Abstract
Components of the tumor microenvironment (TME) are known to play an essential role during malignant progression, but often in a context-dependent manner. In bone and soft tissue sarcomas, disease-regulatory activities in the TME remain largely uncharacterized. This chapter introduces the cellular, structural, and chemical composition of the sarcoma TME from a pathobiological and therapeutic perspective.Sarcomas are malignant tumors with diverse features when it comes to primary tumor appearance, metastatic potential, and response to treatment. Many of the classic subtypes are mainly composed of malignant cells and are therefore assumed to be committed to autocrine signaling. Some of the tumors are infiltrated by immune cells and contain necrotic areas or excessive amounts of extracellular matrix (ECM) that regulates tissue stiffness and interstitial fluid pressure. Vascular invasion and blood vessel characteristics can in some instances be considered in the prognostic setting.Further insights into the disease-regulatory activities of the sarcoma TME will provide essential knowledge on how to develop successful combination treatments targeting not only malignant cells, but also their routes of nutrition and ability to shield themselves toward existing therapy.
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28
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Li M, Lu Y, Long Z, Li M, Kong J, Chen G, Wang Z. Prognostic and clinicopathological significance of circulating tumor cells in osteosarcoma. J Bone Oncol 2019; 16:100236. [PMID: 31024791 PMCID: PMC6475710 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbo.2019.100236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2019] [Revised: 03/28/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Osteosarcoma is the most common form of primary malignant bone tumor, with metastasis playing an essential role in determining a patient's prospects for survival. It is essential that new and better molecular targets that respond effectively to therapies and are predictive of the risk of tumor metastasis are identified. We have therefore undertaken the present prospective study to ascertain the clinical significance of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in osteosarcoma patients. Peripheral blood was obtained from patients both pre- and post-surgery then processed using a CanPatrol™ system, an enrichment technique allowing isolation of CTCs by virtue of their size at baseline. Multiplex RNA in situ hybridization (RNA-ISH) was subsequently conducted to characterize the CTCs based on various molecular markers including MTA1, CD45, EpCAM, CK8, CK19, Vimentin and Twist. MTA1 expression was further validated by immunohistochemistry of the tumor tissue. Besides defining a diagnosis and prognosis for osteosarcoma patients, the correlation between CTC count and their molecular and clinicopathological characteristics was found to assist in the analysis of the response of patients to neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Our results revealed that the number of CTCs was significantly higher at baseline in metastatic patients than in those whose osteosarcomas were localized. The variation was attributed to the neoadjuvant chemotherapy treatment. A cut-off value of 7 CTCs/5 mL was found to effectively distinguish patients who had either a favorable or unfavorable prognosis. Notably, the ratio of mesenchymal CTCs at baseline was found to be higher in metastatic vs. localized osteosarcoma patients. In addition, the expression of MTA1 was higher in mesenchymal CTCs than the other CTC phenotypes. Furthermore, immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated a higher expression of MTA1 in tumor tissues from metastatic osteosarcoma patients. Taken together, our findings conclusively establish that the number and molecular phenotype of CTCs are predictive of tumor metastasis and the response of patients to neoadjuvant chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minghui Li
- Department of Orthopedics, Xijing Hospital, The Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710032, PR China
| | - Yajie Lu
- Department of Orthopedics, Xijing Hospital, The Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710032, PR China
| | - Zuoyao Long
- Department of Orthopedics, Xijing Hospital, The Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710032, PR China
| | - Mengyang Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreas Surgery, Xijing Hospital, The Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710032, PR China
| | - Jing Kong
- Department of Thyroid, Breast and Vascular Surgery, Xijing Hospital, The Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710032, PR China
| | - Guojing Chen
- Department of Orthopedics, Xijing Hospital, The Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710032, PR China
| | - Zhen Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, Xijing Hospital, The Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710032, PR China
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