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Yaniv D, Mattson B, Talbot S, Gleber-Netto FO, Amit M. Targeting the peripheral neural-tumour microenvironment for cancer therapy. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2024:10.1038/s41573-024-01017-z. [PMID: 39242781 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-024-01017-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 09/09/2024]
Abstract
As the field of cancer neuroscience expands, the strategic targeting of interactions between neurons, cancer cells and other elements in the tumour microenvironment represents a potential paradigm shift in cancer treatment, comparable to the advent of our current understanding of tumour immunology. Cancer cells actively release growth factors that stimulate tumour neo-neurogenesis, and accumulating evidence indicates that tumour neo-innervation propels tumour progression, inhibits tumour-related pro-inflammatory cytokines, promotes neovascularization, facilitates metastasis and regulates immune exhaustion and evasion. In this Review, we give an up-to-date overview of the dynamics of the tumour microenvironment with an emphasis on tumour innervation by the peripheral nervous system, as well as current preclinical and clinical evidence of the benefits of targeting the nervous system in cancer, laying a scientific foundation for further clinical trials. Combining empirical data with a biomarker-driven approach to identify and hone neuronal targets implicated in cancer and its spread can pave the way for swift clinical integration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Yaniv
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Brandi Mattson
- The Neurodegeneration Consortium, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Sebastien Talbot
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Sweden
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Frederico O Gleber-Netto
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Moran Amit
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
- UTHealth Houston Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
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2
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Bjørnstad OV, Carrasco M, Finne K, Ardawatia V, Winge I, Askeland C, Arnes JB, Knutsvik G, Kleftogiannis D, Paulo JA, Akslen LA, Vethe H. Global and single-cell proteomics view of the co-evolution between neural progenitors and breast cancer cells in a co-culture model. EBioMedicine 2024; 108:105325. [PMID: 39232464 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2024.105325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2024] [Accepted: 08/22/2024] [Indexed: 09/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Presence of nerves in tumours, by axonogenesis and neurogenesis, is gaining increased attention for its impact on cancer initiation and development, and the new field of cancer neuroscience is emerging. A recent study in prostate cancer suggested that the tumour microenvironment may influence cancer progression by recruitment of Doublecortin (DCX)-expressing neural progenitor cells (NPCs). However, the presence of such cells in human breast tumours has not been comprehensively explored. METHODS Here, we investigate the presence of DCX-expressing cells in breast cancer stromal tissue from patients using Imaging Mass Cytometry. Single-cell analysis of 372,468 cells across histopathological images of 107 breast cancers enabled spatial resolution of neural elements in the stromal compartment in correlation with clinicopathological features of these tumours. In parallel, we established a 3D in vitro model mimicking breast cancer neural progenitor-innervation and examined the two cell types as they co-evolved in co-culture by using mass spectrometry-based global proteomics. FINDINGS Stromal presence of DCX + cells is associated with tumours of higher histological grade, a basal-like phenotype, and shorter patient survival in tumour tissue from patients with breast cancer. Global proteomics analysis revealed significant changes in the proteomic landscape of both breast cancer cells and neural progenitors in co-culture. INTERPRETATION These results support that neural involvement plays an active role in breast cancer and warrants further studies on the relevance of nerve elements for tumour progression. FUNDING This work was supported by the Research Council of Norway through its Centre of Excellence funding scheme, project number 223250 (to L.A.A), the Norwegian Cancer Society (to L.A.A. and H.V.), the Regional Health Trust Western Norway (Helse Vest) (to L.A.A.), the Meltzer Research Fund (to H.V.) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH)/NIGMS grant R01 GM132129 (to J.A.P.).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ole Vidhammer Bjørnstad
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers CCBIO, Department of Clinical Medicine, Section for Pathology, University of Bergen, Bergen N-5021, Norway
| | - Manuel Carrasco
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers CCBIO, Department of Clinical Medicine, Section for Pathology, University of Bergen, Bergen N-5021, Norway
| | - Kenneth Finne
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers CCBIO, Department of Clinical Medicine, Section for Pathology, University of Bergen, Bergen N-5021, Norway
| | - Vandana Ardawatia
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers CCBIO, Department of Clinical Medicine, Section for Pathology, University of Bergen, Bergen N-5021, Norway
| | - Ingeborg Winge
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers CCBIO, Department of Clinical Medicine, Section for Pathology, University of Bergen, Bergen N-5021, Norway
| | - Cecilie Askeland
- Department of Pathology, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen N-5021, Norway
| | - Jarle B Arnes
- Department of Pathology, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen N-5021, Norway
| | - Gøril Knutsvik
- Department of Pathology, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen N-5021, Norway
| | - Dimitrios Kleftogiannis
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers CCBIO, Department of Clinical Medicine, Section for Pathology, University of Bergen, Bergen N-5021, Norway; Computational Biology Unit (CBU), Department of Informatics, University of Bergen, Bergen N-5021, Norway
| | - Joao A Paulo
- Computational Biology Unit (CBU), Department of Informatics, University of Bergen, Bergen N-5021, Norway; Department of Cell Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lars A Akslen
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers CCBIO, Department of Clinical Medicine, Section for Pathology, University of Bergen, Bergen N-5021, Norway; Department of Pathology, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen N-5021, Norway
| | - Heidrun Vethe
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers CCBIO, Department of Clinical Medicine, Section for Pathology, University of Bergen, Bergen N-5021, Norway.
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Zuo S, Wang Z, Jiang X, Zhao Y, Wen P, Wang J, Li J, Tanaka M, Dan S, Zhang Y, Wang Z. Regulating tumor innervation by nanodrugs potentiates cancer immunochemotherapy and relieve chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain. Biomaterials 2024; 309:122603. [PMID: 38713972 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2024.122603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/09/2024]
Abstract
Sympathetic nerves play a pivotal role in promoting tumor growth through crosstalk with tumor and stromal cells. Chemotherapy exacerbates the infiltration of sympathetic nerves into tumors, thereby providing a rationale for inhibiting sympathetic innervation to enhance chemotherapy. Here, we discovered that doxorubicin increases the density and activity of sympathetic nerves in breast cancer mainly by upregulating the expression of nerve growth factors (NGFs) in cancer cells. To address this, we developed a combination therapy by co-encapsulating small interfering RNA (siRNA) and doxorubicin within breast cancer-targeted poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles, aiming to suppress NGF expression post-chemotherapy. Incorporating NGF blockade into the nanoplatform for chemotherapy effectively mitigated the chemotherapy-induced proliferation of sympathetic nerves. This not only bolstered the tumoricidal activity of chemotherapy, but also amplified its stimulatory impact on the antitumor immune response by increasing the infiltration of immunostimulatory cells into tumors while concurrently reducing the frequency of immunosuppressive cells. Consequently, the combined nanodrug approach, when coupled with anti-PD-L1 treatment, exhibited a remarkable suppression of primary and deeply metastatic tumors with minimal systematic toxicity. Importantly, the nanoplatform relieved chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathic pain (CIPNP) by diminishing the expression of pain mediator NGFs. In summary, this research underscores the significant potential of NGF knockdown in enhancing immunochemotherapy outcomes and presents a nanoplatform for the highly efficient and low-toxicity treatment of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuting Zuo
- Department of Breast Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130041, PR China
| | - Zhenyu Wang
- Department of Breast Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130041, PR China
| | - Xiaoman Jiang
- Department of Breast Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130041, PR China
| | - Yuewu Zhao
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nano-Bio Interface, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, 215123, PR China
| | - Panyue Wen
- Institute for Materials Chemistry and Engineering, Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka, 819-0395, Japan
| | - Jine Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nano-Bio Interface, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, 215123, PR China
| | - Junjie Li
- Institute for Materials Chemistry and Engineering, Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka, 819-0395, Japan
| | - Masaru Tanaka
- Institute for Materials Chemistry and Engineering, Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka, 819-0395, Japan
| | - Shao Dan
- National Engineering Research Center for Tissue Restoration and Reconstruction, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510006, PR China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Breast Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130041, PR China.
| | - Zheng Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nano-Bio Interface, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, 215123, PR China.
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4
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Liu Y, Yin S, Lu G, Du Y. The intersection of the nervous system and breast cancer. Cancer Lett 2024; 598:217132. [PMID: 39059572 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.217132] [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: 04/05/2024] [Revised: 07/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) represents a paradigm of heterogeneity, manifesting as a spectrum of molecular subtypes with divergent clinical trajectories. It is fundamentally characterized by the aberrant proliferation of malignant cells within breast tissue, a process modulated by a myriad of factors that govern its progression. Recent endeavors outline the interplay between BC and the nervous system, illuminate the complex symbiosis between neural structures and neoplastic cells, and elucidate nerve dependence as a cornerstone of BC progression. This includes the neural modulations on immune response, neurovascular formation, and multisystem interactions. Such insights have unveiled the critical impact of neural elements on tumor dynamics and patient prognosis. This revelation beckons a deeper exploration into the neuro-oncological interface, potentially unlocking novel therapeutic vistas. This review endeavors to delineate the intricate mechanisms between the nervous system and BC, aiming to accentuate the implications and therapeutic strategies of this intersection for tumor evolution and the formulation of innovative therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutong Liu
- Department of Breast Surgery, General Surgery Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, No.71Xinmin Street, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Shiqi Yin
- Anhui University of Science and Technology Affiliated Fengxian Hospital, 6600 Nanfeng Road, Shanghai, China
| | - Guanyu Lu
- Cancer Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, No.71Xinmin Street, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Ye Du
- Department of Breast Surgery, General Surgery Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, No.71Xinmin Street, Changchun, Jilin, China.
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5
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Goel N, Hernandez A, Cole SW. Social Genomic Determinants of Health: Understanding the Molecular Pathways by Which Neighborhood Disadvantage Affects Cancer Outcomes. J Clin Oncol 2024:JCO2302780. [PMID: 39178356 DOI: 10.1200/jco.23.02780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/25/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Neighborhoods represent complex environments with unique social, cultural, physical, and economic attributes that have major impacts on disparities in health, disease, and survival. Neighborhood disadvantage is associated with shorter breast cancer recurrence-free survival (RFS) independent of individual-level (race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, insurance, tumor characteristics) and health system-level determinants of health (receipt of guideline-concordant treatment). This persistent disparity in RFS suggests unaccounted mechanisms such as more aggressive tumor biology among women living in disadvantaged neighborhoods compared with advantaged neighborhoods. The objective of this article was to provide a clear framework and biological mechanistic explanation for how neighborhood disadvantage affects cancer survival. METHODS Development of a translational epidemiological framework that takes a translational disparities approach to study cancer outcome disparities through the lens of social genomics and social epigenomics. RESULTS The social genomic determinants of health, defined as the physiological gene regulatory pathways (ie, neural/endocrine control of gene expression and epigenetic processes) through which contextual factors, particularly one's neighborhood, can affect activity of the cancer genome and the surrounding tumor microenvironment to alter disease progression and treatment outcomes. CONCLUSION We propose a novel, multilevel determinants of health model that takes a translational epidemiological approach to evaluate the interplay between political, health system, social, psychosocial, individual, and social genomic determinants of health to understand social disparities in oncologic outcomes. In doing so, we provide a concrete biological pathway through which the effects of social processes and social epidemiology come to affect the basic biology of cancer and ultimately clinical outcomes and survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neha Goel
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA
| | - Alexandra Hernandez
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL
| | - Steven W Cole
- Department of Psychiatry/ Biobehavioral Sciences and Medicine, University of California Los Angeles David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA
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Kyriazi AA, Karaglani M, Agelaki S, Baritaki S. Intratumoral Microbiome: Foe or Friend in Reshaping the Tumor Microenvironment Landscape? Cells 2024; 13:1279. [PMID: 39120310 PMCID: PMC11312414 DOI: 10.3390/cells13151279] [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: 06/05/2024] [Revised: 07/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
The role of the microbiome in cancer and its crosstalk with the tumor microenvironment (TME) has been extensively studied and characterized. An emerging field in the cancer microbiome research is the concept of the intratumoral microbiome, which refers to the microbiome residing within the tumor. This microbiome primarily originates from the local microbiome of the tumor-bearing tissue or from translocating microbiome from distant sites, such as the gut. Despite the increasing number of studies on intratumoral microbiome, it remains unclear whether it is a driver or a bystander of oncogenesis and tumor progression. This review aims to elucidate the intricate role of the intratumoral microbiome in tumor development by exploring its effects on reshaping the multileveled ecosystem in which tumors thrive, the TME. To dissect the complexity and the multitude of layers within the TME, we distinguish six specialized tumor microenvironments, namely, the immune, metabolic, hypoxic, acidic, mechanical and innervated microenvironments. Accordingly, we attempt to decipher the effects of the intratumoral microbiome on each specialized microenvironment and ultimately decode its tumor-promoting or tumor-suppressive impact. Additionally, we portray the intratumoral microbiome as an orchestrator in the tumor milieu, fine-tuning the responses in distinct, specialized microenvironments and remodeling the TME in a multileveled and multifaceted manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Athina A. Kyriazi
- Laboratory of Experimental Oncology, Division of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 71500 Heraklion, Greece;
| | - Makrina Karaglani
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, Democritus University of Thrace, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece;
- Laboratory of Hygiene and Environmental Protection, Democritus University of Thrace, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Sofia Agelaki
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 71500 Heraklion, Greece;
| | - Stavroula Baritaki
- Laboratory of Experimental Oncology, Division of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 71500 Heraklion, Greece;
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7
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Sun Y, Jiang W, Liao X, Wang D. Hallmarks of perineural invasion in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma: new biological dimensions. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1421067. [PMID: 39119085 PMCID: PMC11307098 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1421067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an aggressive malignant tumor with a high metastatic potential. Perineural invasion (PNI) occurs in the early stages of PDAC with a high incidence rate and is directly associated with a poor prognosis. It involves close interaction among PDAC cells, nerves and the tumor microenvironment. In this review, we detailed discuss PNI-related pain, six specific steps of PNI, and treatment of PDAC with PNI and emphasize the importance of novel technologies for further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaquan Sun
- Institute of Medical Imaging and Artificial Intelligence, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Wei Jiang
- Institute of Medical Imaging and Artificial Intelligence, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Xiang Liao
- Institute of Medical Imaging and Artificial Intelligence, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Dongqing Wang
- Institute of Medical Imaging and Artificial Intelligence, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
- Department of Medical Imaging, The Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
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8
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Restaino AC, Walz A, Barclay SM, Fettig RR, Vermeer PD. Tumor-associated genetic amplifications impact extracellular vesicle miRNA cargo and their recruitment of nerves in head and neck cancer. FASEB J 2024; 38:e23803. [PMID: 38963404 PMCID: PMC11262563 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202400625rr] [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: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
Cancer neuroscience is an emerging field of cancer biology focused on defining the interactions and relationships between the nervous system, developing malignancies, and their environments. Our previous work demonstrates that small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) released by head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs) recruit loco-regional nerves to the tumor. sEVs contain a diverse collection of biological cargo, including microRNAs (miRNAs). Here, we asked whether two genes commonly amplified in HNSCC, CCND1, and PIK3CA, impact the sEV miRNA cargo and, subsequently, sEV-mediated tumor innervation. To test this, we individually overexpressed these genes in a syngeneic murine HNSCC cell line, purified their sEVs, and tested their neurite outgrowth activity on dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons in vitro. sEVs purified from Ccnd1-overexpressing cells significantly increased neurite outgrowth of DRG compared to sEVs from parental or Pik3ca over-expressing cells. When implanted into C57BL/6 mice, Ccnd1 over-expressing tumor cells promoted significantly more tumor innervation in vivo. qPCR analysis of sEVs shows that increased expression of Ccnd1 altered the packaging of miRNAs (miR-15-5p, miR-17-5p, and miR-21-5p), many of which target transcripts important in regulating axonogenesis. These data indicate that genetic amplifications harbored by malignancies impose changes in sEV miRNA cargo, which can influence tumorc innervation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony C. Restaino
- Cancer Biology and Immunotherapies Group, Sanford Research, 2301 East 60 Street north, Sioux Falls, SD, USA 57104
| | - Austin Walz
- Cancer Biology and Immunotherapies Group, Sanford Research, 2301 East 60 Street north, Sioux Falls, SD, USA 57104
| | - Sarah M. Barclay
- Cancer Biology and Immunotherapies Group, Sanford Research, 2301 East 60 Street north, Sioux Falls, SD, USA 57104
| | - Robin R. Fettig
- Cancer Biology and Immunotherapies Group, Sanford Research, 2301 East 60 Street north, Sioux Falls, SD, USA 57104
| | - Paola D. Vermeer
- Cancer Biology and Immunotherapies Group, Sanford Research, 2301 East 60 Street north, Sioux Falls, SD, USA 57104
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Wang L, Ge J, Han H, Jia Y, Qin Y. Crosstalk between the nervous system and tumor microenvironment: Functional aspects and potential therapeutic strategies. Cancer Lett 2024; 594:216986. [PMID: 38797233 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216986] [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: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 05/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Recent advancements in understanding the tumor microenvironment (TME) have highlighted the critical role of the nervous system in cancer progression. This review comprehensively examines how the nervous system influences various aspects of tumorigenesis, including growth, motility, immune response, angiogenesis, and the behavior of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). We delineate the neurodevelopmental mechanisms associated with cancer, such as the secretion of neurotrophins and exosomes by cancer cells. Furthermore, we explore the emerging therapeutic strategy of targeting nerves associated with tumors. Evidence supporting this approach includes studies demonstrating direct tumor growth inhibition, enhanced efficacy of immunotherapy when combined with nervous system-modulating drugs, and the suppression of tumor blood vessel formation through nerve targeting. Finally, we discuss the current challenges in this field and emphasize the need for further exploration within cancer neuroscience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Wang
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, No.1, Jianshe East Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, PR China
| | - Jingjing Ge
- Department of Medical Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center, No. 651, Dongfeng Road East, Guangzhou, 510060, PR China
| | - Huiqiong Han
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, No.1, Jianshe East Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, PR China
| | - Yongxu Jia
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, No.1, Jianshe East Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, PR China
| | - Yanru Qin
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, No.1, Jianshe East Road, Zhengzhou, 450052, PR China.
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Qin Q, Ramesh S, Li Z, Zhong L, Cherief M, Archer M, Xing X, Thottappillil N, Gomez-Salazar M, Xu M, Zhu M, Chang L, Uniyal A, Mazhar K, Mittal M, McCarthy EF, Morris CD, Levi B, Guan Y, Clemens TL, Price TJ, James AW. TrkA + sensory neurons regulate osteosarcoma proliferation and vascularization to promote disease progression. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.20.599869. [PMID: 38979210 PMCID: PMC11230162 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.20.599869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
Bone pain is a presenting feature of bone cancers such as osteosarcoma (OS), relayed by skeletal-innervating peripheral afferent neurons. Potential functions of tumor-associated sensory neurons in bone cancers beyond pain sensation are unknown. To uncover neural regulatory functions, a chemical-genetic approach in mice with a knock-in allele for TrkA was used to functionally perturb sensory nerve innervation during OS growth and disease progression. TrkA inhibition in transgenic mice led to significant reductions in sarcoma-associated sensory innervation and vascularization, tumor growth and metastasis, and prolonged overall survival. Single-cell transcriptomics revealed that sarcoma denervation was associated with phenotypic alterations in both OS tumor cells and cells within the tumor microenvironment, and with reduced calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) signaling. Multimodal and multi-omics analyses of human OS bone samples and human dorsal root ganglia neurons further implicated peripheral innervation and neurotrophin signaling in OS tumor biology. In order to curb tumor-associated axonal ingrowth, we next leveraged FDA-approved bupivacaine liposomes leading to significant reductions in sarcoma growth, vascularity, as well as alleviation of pain. In sum, TrkA-expressing peripheral neurons positively regulate key aspects of OS progression and sensory neural inhibition appears to disrupt calcitonin receptor signaling (CALCR) and VEGF signaling within the sarcoma microenvironment leading to significantly reduced tumor growth and improved survival. These data suggest that interventions to prevent pathological innervation of osteosarcoma represent a novel adjunctive therapy to improve clinical outcomes and survival.
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11
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Kallogjerovic S, Velázquez-Quesada I, Hadap R, Gligorijevic B. Retrograde tracing of breast cancer-associated sensory neurons. J Microsc 2024. [PMID: 38881512 DOI: 10.1111/jmi.13340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of mortality among women. The tumour microenvironment, consisting of host cells and extracellular matrix, has been increasingly studied for its interplay with cancer cells, and the resulting effect on tumour progression. While the breast is one of the most innervated organs in the body, the role of neurons, and specifically sensory neurons, has been understudied, mostly for technical reasons. One of the reasons is the anatomy of sensory neurons: sensory neuron somas are located in the spine, and their axons can extend longer than a meter across the body to provide innervation in the breast. Next, neurons are challenging to culture, and there are no cell lines adequately representing the diversity of sensory neurons. Finally, sensory neurons are responsible for transporting several different types of signals to the brain, and there are many different subtypes of sensory neurons. The subtypes of sensory neurons, which innervate and interact with breast tumours, are unknown. To establish the tools for labelling and subtyping neurons that interact with breast cancer cells, we utilised two retrograde tracer's standards in neuroscience, wheat-germ agglutinin (WGA) and cholera toxin subunit B (CTB). In vitro, we employed primary sensory neurons isolated from mouse dorsal root ganglia, cultured in a custom-built microfluidic device DACIT, that mimics the anatomical compartmentalisation of the sensory neuron's soma and axons. In vivo, we utilised both syngeneic and transgenic mouse models of mammary carcinoma. We show that CTB and WGA trace different but overlapping sensory neuronal subpopulations: while WGA is more efficient in labelling CGRP+ neurons, CTB is superior in labelling the NF200+ neurons. Surprisingly, both tracers are also taken up by a significant population of breast cancer cells, both in vitro and in vivo. In summary, we have established methodologies for retrograde tracing of sensory neurons interacting with breast cancer cells. Our tools will be useful for future studies of breast tumour innervation, and development of therapies targeting breast cancer-associated neuron subpopulations of sensory neurons. Lay description: Breast cancer is an aggressive disease that affects both women and men throughout the world. While it has been reported that the increasing size of nerves in breast cancer correlates to bad prognosis in patients, the role of nerves, especially sensory nerves, in breast cancer progression, has remained largely understudied. Sensory nerves are responsible for delivering signals such as pain, mechanical forces (pressure, tension, stretch, touch) and temperature to the brain. The human body is densely innervated, and nerves extending into peripheral organs can be as long as a few meters. Nerve classification and function can be very complex, as they contain bundles of extensions (axons) originating in different neuronal bodies (soma). Maintaining neurons and growing axons in cell culture conditions in order to mimic innervation is technically challenging, as it involves multiple organs of the human body. Here, we focus on tracing sensory axons from the breast tumours back to the neuronal soma, located in the dorsal root ganglia, inside the spine. To do so, we are using two different 'retrograde' tracers, WGA and CTB, which are proteins with a natural ability to enter axons and travel in a retrograde fashion, arriving at the soma, even if it means to travel distances longer than a meter. Both tracers are fluorescently labelled, making them visible using high-resolution fluorescent microscopy. We show that both WGA and CTB can label sensory neurons in tumours, or in cell culture conditions. The two tracers differ in efficiency of tracing different sensory neurons subpopulations: while WGA is more efficient in tracing small C-fibres (CGRP-positive), CTB is more efficient in tracing A-fibres (NF200+) of sensory neurons. In summary, we have successfully established retrograde tracing techniques for sensory neurons towards studying and targeting breast cancer innervation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Rutva Hadap
- Bioengineering Department, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Bojana Gligorijevic
- Bioengineering Department, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Cancer Signaling and Microenvironment Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Fels Cancer Institute for Personalized Medicine, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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12
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Șerban RE, Stepan MD, Florescu DN, Boldeanu MV, Florescu MM, Șerbănescu MS, Ionescu M, Streba L, Drăgoescu NAM, Christopher P, Obleagă VC, Constantin C, Vere CC. Expression of Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide and Calcitonin Receptor-like Receptor in Colorectal Adenocarcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4461. [PMID: 38674047 PMCID: PMC11050384 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25084461] [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: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer is one of the most widespread types of cancer that still causes many deaths worldwide. The development of new diagnostic and prognostic markers, as well as new therapeutic methods, is necessary. The calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) neuropeptide alongside its receptor calcitonin receptor-like receptor (CRLR) could represent future biomarkers and a potential therapeutic target. Increased levels of CGRP have been demonstrated in thyroid, prostate, lung, and breast cancers and may also have a role in colorectal cancer. At the tumor level, it acts through different mechanisms, such as the angiogenesis, migration, and proliferation of tumor cells. The aim of this study was to measure the level of CGRP in colorectal cancer patients' serum by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and determine the level of CGRP and CRLR at the tumor level after histopathological (HP) and immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis, and then to correlate them with the TNM stage and with different tumoral characteristics. A total of 54 patients with newly diagnosed colorectal adenocarcinoma were evaluated. We showed that serum levels of CGRP, as well as CGRP and CRLR tumor level expression, correlate with the TNM stage, with local tumor extension, the presence of lymph node metastasis, and distant metastasis, and also with the tumor differentiation degree. CGRP is present in colorectal cancer from the incipient TNM stage, with levels increasing with the stage, and can be used as a diagnostic and prognostic marker and may also represent a potentially new therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert-Emmanuel Șerban
- Department of Gastroenterology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania; (R.-E.Ș.); (C.C.V.)
- Research Center of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200638 Craiova, Romania
| | - Mioara-Desdemona Stepan
- Department of Infant Care-Pediatrics-Neonatology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania;
| | - Dan Nicolae Florescu
- Department of Gastroenterology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania; (R.-E.Ș.); (C.C.V.)
- Research Center of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200638 Craiova, Romania
| | - Mihail-Virgil Boldeanu
- Department of Immunology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Mirela-Marinela Florescu
- Department of Pathology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania;
| | - Mircea-Sebastian Șerbănescu
- Department of Medical Informatics and Biostatistics, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania; (M.-S.Ș.); (M.I.)
| | - Mihaela Ionescu
- Department of Medical Informatics and Biostatistics, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania; (M.-S.Ș.); (M.I.)
| | - Liliana Streba
- Department of Oncology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 2 Petru Rares Str, 200349 Craiova, Romania;
| | | | - Pavel Christopher
- Department 5, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050447 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Vasile-Cosmin Obleagă
- Department of Surgery, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania;
| | - Cristian Constantin
- Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania;
| | - Cristin Constantin Vere
- Department of Gastroenterology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania; (R.-E.Ș.); (C.C.V.)
- Research Center of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200638 Craiova, Romania
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13
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Park H, Lee CH. The contribution of the nervous system in the cancer progression. BMB Rep 2024; 57:167-175. [PMID: 38523371 PMCID: PMC11058356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer progression is driven by genetic mutations, environmental factors, and intricate interactions within the tumor microenvironment (TME). The TME comprises of diverse cell types, such as cancer cells, immune cells, stromal cells, and neuronal cells. These cells mutually influence each other through various factors, including cytokines, vascular perfusion, and matrix stiffness. In the initial or developmental stage of cancer, neurotrophic factors such as nerve growth factor, brain-derived neurotrophic factor, and glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor are associated with poor prognosis of various cancers by communicating with cancer cells, immune cells, and peripheral nerves within the TME. Over the past decade, research has been conducted to prevent cancer growth by controlling the activation of neurotrophic factors within tumors, exhibiting a novel attemt in cancer treatment with promising results. More recently, research focusing on controlling cancer growth through regulation of the autonomic nervous system, including the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, has gained significant attention. Sympathetic signaling predominantly promotes tumor progression, while the role of parasympathetic signaling varies among different cancer types. Neurotransmitters released from these signalings can directly or indirectly affect tumor cells or immune cells within the TME. Additionally, sensory nerve significantly promotes cancer progression. In the advanced stage of cancer, cancer-associated cachexia occurs, characterized by tissue wasting and reduced quality of life. This process involves the pathways via brainstem growth and differentiation factor 15-glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor receptor alpha-like signaling and hypothalamic proopiomelanocortin neurons. Our review highlights the critical role of neurotrophic factors as well as central nervous system on the progression of cancer, offering promising avenues for targeted therapeutic strategies. [BMB Reports 2024; 57(4): 167-175].
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongryeol Park
- Department of Tissue Morphogenesis, Max-Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Muenster D-48149, Germany, Chuncheon 24252, Korea
| | - Chan Hee Lee
- Department of Biomedical Science, Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Korea
- Program of Material Science for Medicine and Pharmaceutics, Hallym University, Chuncheon 24252, Korea
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14
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Giulietti M, Piva F, Cecati M, Maggio S, Guescini M, Saladino T, Scortichini L, Crocetti S, Caramanti M, Battelli N, Romagnoli E. Effects of Eribulin on the RNA Content of Extracellular Vesicles Released by Metastatic Breast Cancer Cells. Cells 2024; 13:479. [PMID: 38534323 DOI: 10.3390/cells13060479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are small lipid particles secreted by almost all human cells into the extracellular space. They perform the essential function of cell-to-cell communication, and their role in promoting breast cancer progression has been well demonstrated. It is known that EVs released by triple-negative and highly aggressive MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells treated with paclitaxel, a microtubule-targeting agent (MTA), promoted chemoresistance in EV-recipient cells. Here, we studied the RNA content of EVs produced by the same MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells treated with another MTA, eribulin mesylate. In particular, we analyzed the expression of different RNA species, including mRNAs, lncRNAs, miRNAs, snoRNAs, piRNAs and tRNA fragments by RNA-seq. Then, we performed differential expression analysis, weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), functional enrichment analysis, and miRNA-target identification. Our findings demonstrate the possible involvement of EVs from eribulin-treated cells in the spread of chemoresistance, prompting the design of strategies that selectively target tumor EVs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Giulietti
- Department of Specialistic Clinical and Odontostomatological Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60131 Ancona, Italy
| | - Francesco Piva
- Department of Specialistic Clinical and Odontostomatological Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60131 Ancona, Italy
| | - Monia Cecati
- Department of Specialistic Clinical and Odontostomatological Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60131 Ancona, Italy
| | - Serena Maggio
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029 Urbino, Italy
| | - Michele Guescini
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029 Urbino, Italy
| | - Tiziana Saladino
- Oncology Unit AST3, Macerata Hospital, Via Santa Lucia 2, 62100 Macerata, Italy
| | - Laura Scortichini
- Oncology Unit AST3, Macerata Hospital, Via Santa Lucia 2, 62100 Macerata, Italy
| | - Sonia Crocetti
- Oncology Unit AST3, Macerata Hospital, Via Santa Lucia 2, 62100 Macerata, Italy
| | - Miriam Caramanti
- Oncology Unit AST3, Macerata Hospital, Via Santa Lucia 2, 62100 Macerata, Italy
| | - Nicola Battelli
- Oncology Unit AST3, Macerata Hospital, Via Santa Lucia 2, 62100 Macerata, Italy
| | - Emanuela Romagnoli
- Oncology Unit AST3, Macerata Hospital, Via Santa Lucia 2, 62100 Macerata, Italy
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15
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Kallogjerovic S, Velázquez-Quesada I, Hadap R, Gligorijevic B. Retrograde tracing of breast cancer-associated sensory neurons. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.26.582088. [PMID: 38463981 PMCID: PMC10925213 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.26.582088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of mortality among women. The tumor microenvironment, consisting of host cells and extracellular matrix, has been increasingly studied for its interplay with cancer cells, and the resulting effect on tumor progression. While the breast is one of the most innervated organs in the body, the role of neurons, and specifically sensory neurons, has been understudied, mostly for technical reasons. One of the reasons is the anatomy of sensory neurons: sensory neuron somas are located in the spine, and their axons can extend longer than a meter across the body to provide innervation in the breast. Next, neurons are challenging to culture, and there are no cell lines adequately representing the diversity of sensory neurons. Finally, sensory neurons are responsible for transporting several different types of signals to the brain, and there are many different subtypes of sensory neurons. The subtypes of sensory neurons which innervate and interact with breast tumors are unknown. To establish the tools for labeling and subtyping neurons that interact with breast cancer cells, we utilized two retrograde tracer's standards in neuroscience, wheat-germ agglutinin (WGA) and cholera toxin subunit B (CTB). In vitro , we employed primary sensory neurons isolated from mouse dorsal root ganglia, cultured in a custom-built microfluidic device DACIT, that mimics the anatomical compartmentalization of the sensory neuron's soma and axons. In vivo , we utilized both syngeneic and transgenic mouse models of mammary carcinoma. We show that CTB and WGA trace different but overlapping sensory neuronal subpopulations: while WGA is more efficient in labeling CGRP+ neurons, CTB is superior in labeling the NF200+ neurons. Surprisingly, both tracers are also taken up by a significant population of breast cancer cells, both in vitro and in vivo . In summary, we have established methodologies for retrograde tracing of sensory neurons interacting with breast cancer cells. Our tools will be useful for future studies of breast tumor innervation, and development of therapies targeting breast cancer-associated neuron subpopulations of sensory neurons.
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16
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Shalabi S, Belayachi A, Larrivée B. Involvement of neuronal factors in tumor angiogenesis and the shaping of the cancer microenvironment. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1284629. [PMID: 38375479 PMCID: PMC10875004 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1284629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Emerging evidence suggests that nerves within the tumor microenvironment play a crucial role in regulating angiogenesis. Neurotransmitters and neuropeptides released by nerves can interact with nearby blood vessels and tumor cells, influencing their behavior and modulating the angiogenic response. Moreover, nerve-derived signals may activate signaling pathways that enhance the production of pro-angiogenic factors within the tumor microenvironment, further supporting blood vessel growth around tumors. The intricate network of communication between neural constituents and the vascular system accentuates the potential of therapeutically targeting neural-mediated pathways as an innovative strategy to modulate tumor angiogenesis and, consequently, neoplastic proliferation. Hereby, we review studies that evaluate the precise molecular interplay and the potential clinical ramifications of manipulating neural elements for the purpose of anti-angiogenic therapeutics within the scope of cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharif Shalabi
- Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Center, Boulevard de l’Assomption, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Ali Belayachi
- Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Center, Boulevard de l’Assomption, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Bruno Larrivée
- Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital Research Center, Boulevard de l’Assomption, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Ophthalmology, Université de Montréal, boul. Édouard-Montpetit, Montréal, QC, Canada
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17
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Blasko F, Horvathova L. The relationship between the tumor and its innervation: historical, methodical, morphological, and functional assessments - A minireview. Endocr Regul 2024; 58:68-82. [PMID: 38563296 DOI: 10.2478/enr-2024-0008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
The acceptance of the tumor as a non-isolated structure within the organism has opened a space for the study of a wide spectrum of potential direct and indirect interactions, not only between the tumor tissue and its vicinity, but also between the tumor and its macroenvironment, including the nervous system. Although several lines of evidence have implicated the nervous system in tumor growth and progression, for many years, researchers believed that tumors lacked innervation and the notion of indirect neuro-neoplastic interactions via other systems (e.g., immune, or endocrine) predominated. The original idea that tumors are supplied not only by blood and lymphatic vessels, but also autonomic and sensory nerves that may influence cancer progression, is not a recent phenomenon. Although in the past, mainly due to the insufficiently sensitive methodological approaches, opinions regarding the presence of nerves in tumors were inconsistent. However, data from the last decade have shown that tumors are able to stimulate the formation of their own innervation by processes called neo-neurogenesis and neo-axonogenesis. It has also been shown that tumor infiltrating nerves are not a passive, but active components of the tumor microenvironment and their presence in the tumor tissue is associated with an aggressive tumor phenotype and correlates with poor prognosis. The aim of the present review was to 1) summarize the available knowledge regarding the course of tumor innervation, 2) present the potential mechanisms and pathways for the possible induction of new nerve fibers into the tumor microenvironment, and 3) highlight the functional significance/consequences of the nerves infiltrating the tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filip Blasko
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
- Institute of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University Bratislava, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Lubica Horvathova
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology, Biomedical Research Center, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
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18
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Lan Y, Zou S, Wang W, Chen Q, Zhu Y. Progress in cancer neuroscience. MedComm (Beijing) 2023; 4:e431. [PMID: 38020711 PMCID: PMC10665600 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer of the central nervous system (CNS) can crosstalk systemically and locally in the tumor microenvironment and has become a topic of attention for tumor initiation and advancement. Recently studied neuronal and cancer interaction fundamentally altered the knowledge about glioma and metastases, indicating how cancers invade complex neuronal networks. This review systematically discussed the interactions between neurons and cancers and elucidates new therapeutic avenues. We have overviewed the current understanding of direct or indirect communications of neuronal cells with cancer and the mechanisms associated with cancer invasion. Besides, tumor-associated neuronal dysfunction and the influence of cancer therapies on the CNS are highlighted. Furthermore, interactions between peripheral nervous system and various cancers have also been discussed separately. Intriguingly and importantly, it cannot be ignored that exosomes could mediate the "wireless communications" between nervous system and cancer. Finally, promising future strategies targeting neuronal-brain tumor interactions were reviewed. A great deal of work remains to be done to elucidate the neuroscience of cancer, and future more research should be directed toward clarifying the precise mechanisms of cancer neuroscience, which hold enormous promise to improve outcomes for a wide range of malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu‐Long Lan
- Department of NeurosurgerySecond Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang UniversityHangzhouZhejiangChina
- Key Laboratory of Precise Treatment and Clinical Translational Research of Neurological DiseasesHangzhouZhejiangChina
- Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhouChina
| | - Shuang Zou
- Key Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Translational Medicine of Zhejiang Province, School of Pharmaceutical ScienceZhejiang Chinese Medical UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Wen Wang
- Department of NeurosurgeryBeijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Qi Chen
- Key Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Translational Medicine of Zhejiang Province, School of Pharmaceutical ScienceZhejiang Chinese Medical UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Yongjian Zhu
- Department of NeurosurgerySecond Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang UniversityHangzhouZhejiangChina
- Key Laboratory of Precise Treatment and Clinical Translational Research of Neurological DiseasesHangzhouZhejiangChina
- Clinical Research Center for Neurological Diseases of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhouChina
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19
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Zhang W, Wang J, Liu C, Li Y, Sun C, Wu J, Wu Q. Crosstalk and plasticity driving between cancer-associated fibroblasts and tumor microenvironment: significance of breast cancer metastasis. J Transl Med 2023; 21:827. [PMID: 37978384 PMCID: PMC10657029 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04714-2] [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: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are the most abundant stromal cell population in breast tumors. A functionally diverse population of CAFs increases the dynamic complexity of the tumor microenvironment (TME). The intertwined network of the TME facilitates the interaction between activated CAFs and breast cancer cells, which can lead to the proliferation and invasion of breast cells. Considering the special transmission function of CAFs, the aim of this review is to summarize and highlight the crosstalk between CAFs and breast cancer cells in the TME as well as the relationship between CAFs and extracellular matrix (ECM), soluble cytokines, and other stromal cells in the metastatic state. The crosstalk between cancer-associated fibroblasts and tumor microenvironment also provides a plastic therapeutic target for breast cancer metastasis. In the course of the study, the inhibitory effects of different natural compounds on targeting CAFs and the advantages of different drug combinations were summarized. CAFs are also widely used in the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer. The cumulative research on this phenomenon supports the establishment of a targeted immune microenvironment as a possible breakthrough in the prevention of invasive metastasis of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenfeng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, and Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Avenida Wai Long, Taipa, 999078, Macau, China
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 261000, China
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250355, China
| | - Jia Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, and Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Avenida Wai Long, Taipa, 999078, Macau, China
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250355, China
| | - Cun Liu
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 261000, China
| | - Ye Li
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, and Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Avenida Wai Long, Taipa, 999078, Macau, China
| | - Changgang Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, and Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Avenida Wai Long, Taipa, 999078, Macau, China.
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, 261000, China.
- Department of Oncology, Weifang Traditional Chinese Hospital, Weifang, 261000, China.
| | - Jibiao Wu
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250355, China.
| | - Qibiao Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, and Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Avenida Wai Long, Taipa, 999078, Macau, China.
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20
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Goel N, Hernandez AE, Ream M, Clarke ES, Blomberg BB, Cole S, Antoni MH. Effects of neighborhood disadvantage on cortisol and interviewer-rated anxiety symptoms in breast cancer patients initiating treatment. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2023; 202:203-211. [PMID: 37561280 PMCID: PMC11250915 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-023-07050-7] [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: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Shorter breast cancer (BC) survival outcomes persist by neighborhood disadvantage independent of patient, tumor, and treatment characteristics. This suggests unaccounted mechanisms by which neighborhood disadvantage "gets under the skin" to impact BC survival outcomes. Here, we evaluate the relationship between neighborhood disadvantage and clinical and neuroendocrine markers of stress in BC patients. METHODS Women with stage 0-III BC were enrolled 2-10 weeks post-surgery and before initiating adjuvant treatment in a study examining stress and stress management processes. Women provided an afternoon-evening (PM) serum cortisol sample and were administered the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A). Home addresses were used to determine the Area Deprivation Index (ADI), a validated measure of neighborhood disadvantage. Multiple regression assessed the relationship between ADI and PM serum cortisol and the presence of elevated HAM-A symptoms. RESULTS Our sample (n = 225) was predominately middle-aged (M = 50.4 years; range 23-70 years), non-Hispanic White (64.3%), with stage I (38.1%), or II (38.6%) disease. The majority (n = 175) lived in advantaged neighborhoods (ADI 1-3). After controlling for age, stage, and surgery type, women from high ADI (4-10) (vs low ADI) neighborhoods had higher PM cortisol levels (β = 0.19, 95% CI [0.24, 5.00], p = 0.031) and were nearly two times as likely to report the presence of elevated anxiety symptoms (OR = 1.96, 95% CI [1.00, 3.86], p = 0.050). CONCLUSION Neighborhood disadvantage is significantly associated with higher levels of PM cortisol and elevated anxiety symptoms suggesting stress pathways could potentially contribute to relationships between neighborhood disadvantage and BC survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neha Goel
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1120 NW 14Th Street, Suite 410, Miami, FL, 33136, USA.
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Alexandra E Hernandez
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1120 NW 14Th Street, Suite 410, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Molly Ream
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Estefany Saez Clarke
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Bonnie B Blomberg
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
- Department of Microbiology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Steve Cole
- Department of Psychiatry/Biobehavioral Sciences and Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Michael H Antoni
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
- Department of Psychology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
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21
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Nguyen TM, Ngoc DTM, Choi JH, Lee CH. Unveiling the Neural Environment in Cancer: Exploring the Role of Neural Circuit Players and Potential Therapeutic Strategies. Cells 2023; 12:1996. [PMID: 37566075 PMCID: PMC10417274 DOI: 10.3390/cells12151996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The regulation of the immune environment within the tumor microenvironment has provided new opportunities for cancer treatment. However, an important microenvironment surrounding cancer that is often overlooked despite its significance in cancer progression is the neural environment surrounding the tumor. The release of neurotrophic factors from cancer cells is implicated in cancer growth and metastasis by facilitating the infiltration of nerve cells into the tumor microenvironment. This nerve-tumor interplay can elicit cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in response to neurotransmitters. Moreover, it is possible that cancer cells could establish a network resembling that of neurons, allowing them to communicate with one another through neurotransmitters. The expression levels of players in the neural circuits of cancers could serve as potential biomarkers for cancer aggressiveness. Notably, the upregulation of certain players in the neural circuit has been linked to poor prognosis in specific cancer types such as breast cancer, pancreatic cancer, basal cell carcinoma, and stomach cancer. Targeting these players with inhibitors holds great potential for reducing the morbidity and mortality of these carcinomas. However, the efficacy of anti-neurogenic agents in cancer therapy remains underexplored, and further research is necessary to evaluate their effectiveness as a novel approach for cancer treatment. This review summarizes the current knowledge on the role of players in the neural circuits of cancers and the potential of anti-neurogenic agents for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuan Minh Nguyen
- College of Pharmacy, Dongguk University, Goyang 10326, Republic of Korea; (T.M.N.); (D.T.M.N.)
| | - Dinh Thi Minh Ngoc
- College of Pharmacy, Dongguk University, Goyang 10326, Republic of Korea; (T.M.N.); (D.T.M.N.)
| | - Jung-Hye Choi
- College of Pharmacy, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang-Hoon Lee
- College of Pharmacy, Dongguk University, Goyang 10326, Republic of Korea; (T.M.N.); (D.T.M.N.)
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22
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Abstract
The nervous system regulates tissue stem and precursor populations throughout life. Parallel to roles in development, the nervous system is emerging as a critical regulator of cancer, from oncogenesis to malignant growth and metastatic spread. Various preclinical models in a range of malignancies have demonstrated that nervous system activity can control cancer initiation and powerfully influence cancer progression and metastasis. Just as the nervous system can regulate cancer progression, cancer also remodels and hijacks nervous system structure and function. Interactions between the nervous system and cancer occur both in the local tumour microenvironment and systemically. Neurons and glial cells communicate directly with malignant cells in the tumour microenvironment through paracrine factors and, in some cases, through neuron-to-cancer cell synapses. Additionally, indirect interactions occur at a distance through circulating signals and through influences on immune cell trafficking and function. Such cross-talk among the nervous system, immune system and cancer-both systemically and in the local tumour microenvironment-regulates pro-tumour inflammation and anti-cancer immunity. Elucidating the neuroscience of cancer, which calls for interdisciplinary collaboration among the fields of neuroscience, developmental biology, immunology and cancer biology, may advance effective therapies for many of the most difficult to treat malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Mancusi
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Michelle Monje
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
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23
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Yin L, Chen GL, Xiang Z, Liu YL, Li XY, Bi JW, Wang Q. Current progress in chimeric antigen receptor-modified T cells for the treatment of metastatic breast cancer. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 162:114648. [PMID: 37023621 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the leading cancer in women. Around 20-30% breast cancer patients undergo invasion or metastasis after radical surgical resection and eventually die. Number of breast cancer patients show poor sensitivity toward treatments despite the advances in chemotherapy, endocrine therapy, and molecular targeted treatments. Therapeutic resistance and tumor recurrence or metastasis develop with the ongoing treatments. Conducive treatment strategies are thus required. Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-modified T-cell therapy has progressed as a part of tumor immunotherapy. However, CAR-T treatment has not been effective in solid tumors because of tumor microenvironment complexity, inhibitory effects of extracellular matrix, and lacking ideal tumor antigens. Herein, the prospects of CAR-T cell therapy for metastatic breast cancer are discussed, and the targets for CAR-T therapy in breast cancer (HER-2, C-MET, MSLN, CEA, MUC1, ROR1, EGFR) at clinical level are reviewed. Moreover, solutions are proposed for the challenges of breast cancer CAR-T therapy regarding off-target effects, heterogeneous antigen expression by tumor cells and immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Ideas for improving the therapeutics of CAR-T cell therapy in metastatic breast cancer are suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Yin
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Shandong Provincial ENT Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 250023 Jinan, China; Oncology Department, Shandong Second Provincial General Hospital, 250023 Jinan, China; Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 250355 Jinan, China
| | - Gui-Lai Chen
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Shandong Provincial ENT Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 250023 Jinan, China; Oncology Department, Shandong Second Provincial General Hospital, 250023 Jinan, China
| | - Zhuo Xiang
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Shandong Provincial ENT Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 250023 Jinan, China; Oncology Department, Shandong Second Provincial General Hospital, 250023 Jinan, China
| | - Yu-Lin Liu
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Shandong Provincial ENT Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 250023 Jinan, China; Oncology Department, Shandong Second Provincial General Hospital, 250023 Jinan, China
| | - Xing-Yu Li
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs, Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, 266003 Qingdao, China
| | - Jing-Wang Bi
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Shandong Provincial ENT Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 250023 Jinan, China; Oncology Department, Shandong Second Provincial General Hospital, 250023 Jinan, China.
| | - Qiang Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Shandong Provincial ENT Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 250023 Jinan, China; Oncology Department, Shandong Second Provincial General Hospital, 250023 Jinan, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs, Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, 266003 Qingdao, China.
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24
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Cui Q, Jiang D, Zhang Y, Chen C. The tumor-nerve circuit in breast cancer. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2023; 42:543-574. [PMID: 36997828 PMCID: PMC10349033 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-023-10095-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023]
Abstract
It is well established that innervation is one of the updated hallmarks of cancer and that psychological stress promotes the initiation and progression of cancer. The breast tumor environment includes not only fibroblasts, adipocytes, endothelial cells, and lymphocytes but also neurons, which is increasingly discovered important in breast cancer progression. Peripheral nerves, especially sympathetic, parasympathetic, and sensory nerves, have been reported to play important but different roles in breast cancer. However, their roles in the breast cancer progression and treatment are still controversial. In addition, the brain is one of the favorite sites of breast cancer metastasis. In this review, we first summarize the innervation of breast cancer and its mechanism in regulating cancer growth and metastasis. Next, we summarize the neural-related molecular markers in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. In addition, we review drugs and emerging technologies used to block the interactions between nerves and breast cancer. Finally, we discuss future research directions in this field. In conclusion, the further research in breast cancer and its interactions with innervated neurons or neurotransmitters is promising in the clinical management of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuxia Cui
- Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University Science & Technology of China, Zhanjiang, 524000, China
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital and Shenzhen Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Shenzhen, 518116, China
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650201, China
| | - Dewei Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650201, China
| | - Yuanqi Zhang
- Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University Science & Technology of China, Zhanjiang, 524000, China.
| | - Ceshi Chen
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650201, China.
- Academy of Biomedical Engineering, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650500, China.
- The Third Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650118, China.
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25
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Jin M, Wang Y, Zhou T, Li W, Wen Q. Norepinephrine/β 2-Adrenergic Receptor Pathway Promotes the Cell Proliferation and Nerve Growth Factor Production in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. J Breast Cancer 2023; 26:268-285. [PMID: 37387350 DOI: 10.4048/jbc.2023.26.e25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) accounts for 90% of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). IDC is mainly derived from the breast ductal epithelium which is innervated by the 4th to 6th thoracic sympathetic nerves. However, little is known about the contribution of the interactions between sympathetic nerves and breast cancer cells to the malignant progression of TNBC. METHODS The expression levels of the β2-adrenergic receptor (β2-AR, encoded by ADRB2 gene), nerve growth factor (NGF), and tropomyosin receptor kinase A (TrkA) were determined using immunohistochemistry (IHC). NGF expression levels in the serum were compared by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Cell proliferation was assessed using the Cell Counting Kit-8 assay. The β2-AR, NGF, p-ERK, and p-CERB expression levels were determined using western blotting. TNBC cells and neuronal cells of the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) in 2-day-old Sprague Dawley rats were co-cultured. Using norepinephrine (NE), NGF, and β2-AR, NGF/TrkA blocker pretreatments, the axon growth of each group of DRG neuron cells was detected by immunofluorescence analysis. RESULTS The sympathetic adrenergic neurotransmitter NE activated the ERK signaling pathway in TNBC cells. NE/β2-AR signaling promotes NGF secretion. NGF further facilitates the malignant progression of TNBC by increasing sympathetic neurogenesis. In the co-culture assay, the sympathetic adrenergic NE/β2-AR signal pathway also enhanced NGF secretion. NGF binds TrkA in DRG neurons and promotes axonal growth. CONCLUSION These results suggest that NE/β2-AR pathway promotes cell proliferation and NGF production in triple-negative breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meihua Jin
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
- Department of Anesthesiology, Dalian Women and Children's Medical Group, Dalian, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Institute (College) of Integrative Medicine, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Tingting Zhou
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Wenzhe Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China.
| | - Qingping Wen
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China.
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26
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Bjørnstad OV, Carrasco M, Finne K, Winge I, Askeland C, Arnes JB, Knutsvik G, Kleftogiannis D, Paulo JA, Akslen LA, Vethe H. Global and single-cell proteomics view of the co-evolution between neural progenitors and breast cancer cells in a co-culture model. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.05.03.539050. [PMID: 37205344 PMCID: PMC10187147 DOI: 10.1101/2023.05.03.539050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Tumor neurogenesis, a process by which new nerves invade tumors, is a growing area of interest in cancer research. Nerve presence has been linked to aggressive features of various solid tumors, including breast and prostate cancer. A recent study suggested that the tumor microenvironment may influence cancer progression through recruitment of neural progenitor cells from the central nervous system. However, the presence of neural progenitors in human breast tumors has not been reported. Here, we investigate the presence of Doublecortin (DCX) and Neurofilament-Light (NFL) co-expressing (DCX+/NFL+) cells in patient breast cancer tissue using Imaging Mass Cytometry. To map the interaction between breast cancer cells and neural progenitor cells further, we created an in vitro model mimicking breast cancer innervation, and characterized using mass spectrometry-based proteomics on the two cell types as they co- evolved in co-culture. Our results indicate stromal presence of DCX+/NFL+ cells in breast tumor tissue from a cohort of 107 patient cases, and that neural interaction contribute to drive a more aggressive breast cancer phenotype in our co-culture models. Our results support that neural involvement plays an active role in breast cancer and warrants further studies on the interaction between nervous system and breast cancer progression.
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27
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Chang A, Botteri E, Gillis RD, Löfling L, Le CP, Ziegler AI, Chung NC, Rowe MC, Fabb SA, Hartley BJ, Nowell CJ, Kurozumi S, Gandini S, Munzone E, Montagna E, Eikelis N, Phillips SE, Honda C, Masuda K, Katayama A, Oyama T, Cole SW, Lambert GW, Walker AK, Sloan EK. Beta-blockade enhances anthracycline control of metastasis in triple-negative breast cancer. Sci Transl Med 2023; 15:eadf1147. [PMID: 37099632 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.adf1147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/28/2023]
Abstract
Beta-adrenergic blockade has been associated with improved cancer survival in patients with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), but the mechanisms of these effects remain unclear. In clinical epidemiological analyses, we identified a relationship between beta-blocker use and anthracycline chemotherapy in protecting against TNBC progression, disease recurrence, and mortality. We recapitulated the effect of beta-blockade on anthracycline efficacy in xenograft mouse models of TNBC. In metastatic 4T1.2 and MDA-MB-231 mouse models of TNBC, beta-blockade improved the efficacy of the anthracycline doxorubicin by reducing metastatic development. We found that anthracycline chemotherapy alone, in the absence of beta-blockade, increased sympathetic nerve fiber activity and norepinephrine concentration in mammary tumors through the induction of nerve growth factor (NGF) by tumor cells. Moreover, using preclinical models and clinical samples, we found that anthracycline chemotherapy up-regulated β2-adrenoceptor expression and amplified receptor signaling in tumor cells. Neurotoxin inhibition of sympathetic neural signaling in mammary tumors using 6-hydroxydopamine or genetic deletion of NGF or β2-adrenoceptor in tumor cells enhanced the therapeutic effect of anthracycline chemotherapy by reducing metastasis in xenograft mouse models. These findings reveal a neuromodulatory effect of anthracycline chemotherapy that undermines its potential therapeutic impact, which can be overcome by inhibiting β2-adrenergic signaling in the tumor microenvironment. Supplementing anthracycline chemotherapy with adjunctive β2-adrenergic antagonists represents a potential therapeutic strategy for enhancing the clinical management of TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aeson Chang
- Drug Discovery Biology Theme, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Edoardo Botteri
- Department of Research, Cancer Registry of Norway, Oslo 0379, Norway
| | - Ryan D Gillis
- Drug Discovery Biology Theme, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Lukas Löfling
- Department of Research, Cancer Registry of Norway, Oslo 0379, Norway
| | - Caroline P Le
- Drug Discovery Biology Theme, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
- Jreissati Pancreatic Centre, Epworth HealthCare, Richmond, VIC 3121, Australia
| | - Alexandra I Ziegler
- Drug Discovery Biology Theme, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Ni-Chun Chung
- Drug Discovery Biology Theme, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Matthew C Rowe
- Drug Discovery Biology Theme, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Stewart A Fabb
- Drug Delivery, Disposition, and Dynamics Theme, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | | | - Cameron J Nowell
- Drug Discovery Biology Theme, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Sasagu Kurozumi
- Department of Breast Surgery, International University of Health and Welfare, Narita, Chiba 286-8520, Japan
- Department of General Surgical Science, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Gunma 371-8511, Japan
| | - Sara Gandini
- Molecular and Pharmaco-Epidemiology Unit, Department of Experimental Oncology, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan 20139, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Munzone
- Division of Medical Senology, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Emilia Montagna
- Division of Medical Senology, European Institute of Oncology IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Nina Eikelis
- Iverson Health Innovation Research Institute and School of Health Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, VIC 3122, Australia
- Human Neurotransmitters Laboratory, Baker Heart & Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | - Sarah E Phillips
- Iverson Health Innovation Research Institute and School of Health Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, VIC 3122, Australia
- Human Neurotransmitters Laboratory, Baker Heart & Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | - Chikako Honda
- Department of General Surgical Science, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Gunma 371-8511, Japan
| | - Kei Masuda
- Department of Diagnostic Pathology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma, Japan
| | - Ayaka Katayama
- Department of Diagnostic Pathology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma, Japan
| | - Tetsunari Oyama
- Department of Diagnostic Pathology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma, Japan
| | - Steve W Cole
- Departments of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences and Medicine, Division of Hematology-Oncology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Cousins Center for Psychoneuroimmunology, Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, and the Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Gavin W Lambert
- Iverson Health Innovation Research Institute and School of Health Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, VIC 3122, Australia
- Human Neurotransmitters Laboratory, Baker Heart & Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | - Adam K Walker
- Drug Discovery Biology Theme, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
- Laboratory of ImmunoPsychiatry, Neuroscience Research Australia, Randwick, NSW 2031, Australia
- Discipline of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Erica K Sloan
- Drug Discovery Biology Theme, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
- Cousins Center for Psychoneuroimmunology, Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, and the Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Division of Surgery, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
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28
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Abstract
The recently uncovered key role of the peripheral and central nervous systems in controlling tumorigenesis and metastasis has opened a new area of research to identify innovative approaches against cancer. Although the 'neural addiction' of cancer is only partially understood, in this Perspective we discuss the current knowledge and perspectives on peripheral and central nerve circuitries and brain areas that can support tumorigenesis and metastasis and the possible reciprocal influence that the brain and peripheral tumours exert on one another. Tumours can build up local autonomic and sensory nerve networks and are able to develop a long-distance relationship with the brain through circulating adipokines, inflammatory cytokines, neurotrophic factors or afferent nerve inputs, to promote cancer initiation, growth and dissemination. In turn, the central nervous system can affect tumour development and metastasis through the activation or dysregulation of specific central neural areas or circuits, as well as neuroendocrine, neuroimmune or neurovascular systems. Studying neural circuitries in the brain and tumours, as well as understanding how the brain communicates with the tumour or how intratumour nerves interplay with the tumour microenvironment, can reveal unrecognized mechanisms that promote cancer development and progression and open up opportunities for the development of novel therapeutic strategies. Targeting the dysregulated peripheral and central nervous systems might represent a novel strategy for next-generation cancer treatment that could, in part, be achieved through the repurposing of neuropsychiatric drugs in oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Magnon
- Laboratory of Cancer and Microenvironment-National Institute of Health and Medical Research (INSERM), Institute of Biology François Jacob-Atomic Energy Commission (CEA), University of Paris Cité, University of Paris-Saclay, Paris, France.
| | - Hubert Hondermarck
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, Hunter Medical Research Institute, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
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29
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Di Donato M, Giovannelli P, Migliaccio A, Castoria G. The nerve growth factor-delivered signals in prostate cancer and its associated microenvironment: when the dialogue replaces the monologue. Cell Biosci 2023; 13:60. [PMID: 36941697 PMCID: PMC10029315 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-023-01008-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PC) represents the most diagnosed and the second most lethal cancer in men worldwide. Its development and progression occur in concert with alterations in the surrounding tumor microenvironment (TME), made up of stromal cells and extracellular matrix (ECM) that dynamically interact with epithelial PC cells affecting their growth and invasiveness. PC cells, in turn, can functionally sculpt the TME through the secretion of various factors, including neurotrophins. Among them, the nerve growth factor (NGF) that is released by both epithelial PC cells and carcinoma-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) triggers the activation of various intracellular signaling cascades, thereby promoting the acquisition of a metastatic phenotype. After many years of investigation, it is indeed well established that aberrations and/or derangement of NGF signaling are involved not only in neurological disorders, but also in the pathogenesis of human proliferative diseases, including PC. Another key feature of cancer progression is the nerve outgrowth in TME and the concept of nerve dependence related to perineural invasion is currently emerging. NGF released by cancer cells can be a driver of tumor neurogenesis and nerves infiltrated in TME release neurotransmitters, which might stimulate the growth and sustainment of tumor cells.In this review, we aim to provide a snapshot of NGF action in the interactions between TME, nerves and PC cells. Understanding the molecular basis of this dialogue might expand the arsenal of therapeutic strategies against this widespread disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzia Di Donato
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "L.Vanvitelli", 80138, Naples, Italy.
| | - Pia Giovannelli
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "L.Vanvitelli", 80138, Naples, Italy.
| | - Antimo Migliaccio
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "L.Vanvitelli", 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Gabriella Castoria
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania "L.Vanvitelli", 80138, Naples, Italy
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30
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Jing D, Zhao Q, Zhao Y, Lu X, Feng Y, Zhao B, Zhao X. Management of pain in patients with bone metastases. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1156618. [PMID: 37007073 PMCID: PMC10063159 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1156618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer-induced bone pain (CIBP) has a considerable impact on patients’ quality of life as well as physical and mental health. At present, patients with CIBP are managed according to the three-step analgesic therapy algorithm proposed by the World Health Organization. Opioids are commonly used as the first-line treatment for moderate-to-severe cancer pain but are limited due to addiction, nausea, vomiting and other gastrointestinal side effects. Moreover, opioids have a limited analgesic effect in some patients. In order to optimize the management of CIBP, we must first identify the underlying mechanisms. In some patients, surgery, or surgery combined with radiotherapy or radiofrequency ablation is the first step in the management of CIBP. Various clinical studies have shown that anti-nerve growth factor (NGF) antibodies, bisphosphonates, or RANKL inhibitors can reduce the incidence and improve the management of cancer pain. Herein, we review the mechanisms of cancer pain and potential therapeutic strategies to provide insights for optimizing the management of CIBP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doudou Jing
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Qian Zhao
- Department of Endocrine, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Yibo Zhao
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Xiangdong Lu
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Yi Feng
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Bin Zhao
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
- *Correspondence: Bin Zhao, ; Xiaofeng Zhao,
| | - Xiaofeng Zhao
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
- *Correspondence: Bin Zhao, ; Xiaofeng Zhao,
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31
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Chen Z, Fang Y, Jiang W. Important Cells and Factors from Tumor Microenvironment Participated in Perineural Invasion. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:1360. [PMID: 36900158 PMCID: PMC10000249 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15051360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Perineural invasion (PNI) as the fourth way for solid tumors metastasis and invasion has attracted a lot of attention, recent research reported a new point that PNI starts to include axon growth and possible nerve "invasion" to tumors as the component. More and more tumor-nerve crosstalk has been explored to explain the internal mechanism for tumor microenvironment (TME) of some types of tumors tends to observe nerve infiltration. As is well known, the interaction of tumor cells, peripheral blood vessels, extracellular matrix, other non-malignant cells, and signal molecules in TME plays a key role in the occurrence, development, and metastasis of cancer, as to the occurrence and development of PNI. We aim to summarize the current theories on the molecular mediators and pathogenesis of PNI, add the latest scientific research progress, and explore the use of single-cell spatial transcriptomics in this invasion way. A better understanding of PNI may help to understand tumor metastasis and recurrence and will be beneficial for improving staging strategies, new treatment methods, and even paradigm shifts in our treatment of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zirong Chen
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- Otolaryngology Major Disease Research Key Laboratory of Hunan Province, Changsha 410008, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- Anatomy Laboratory of Division of Nose and Cranial Base, Clinical Anatomy Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Yan Fang
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- Otolaryngology Major Disease Research Key Laboratory of Hunan Province, Changsha 410008, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- Anatomy Laboratory of Division of Nose and Cranial Base, Clinical Anatomy Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Weihong Jiang
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- Otolaryngology Major Disease Research Key Laboratory of Hunan Province, Changsha 410008, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- Anatomy Laboratory of Division of Nose and Cranial Base, Clinical Anatomy Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
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32
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Li RQ, Zhao XH, Zhu Q, Liu T, Hondermarck H, Thorne RF, Zhang XD, Gao JN. Exploring neurotransmitters and their receptors for breast cancer prevention and treatment. Theranostics 2023; 13:1109-1129. [PMID: 36793869 PMCID: PMC9925324 DOI: 10.7150/thno.81403] [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: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
While psychological factors have long been linked to breast cancer pathogenesis and outcomes, accumulating evidence is revealing how the nervous system contributes to breast cancer development, progression, and treatment resistance. Central to the psychological-neurological nexus are interactions between neurotransmitters and their receptors expressed on breast cancer cells and other types of cells in the tumor microenvironment, which activate various intracellular signaling pathways. Importantly, the manipulation of these interactions is emerging as a potential avenue for breast cancer prevention and treatment. However, an important caveat is that the same neurotransmitter can exert multiple and sometimes opposing effects. In addition, certain neurotransmitters can be produced and secreted by non-neuronal cells including breast cancer cells that similarly activate intracellular signaling upon binding to their receptors. In this review we dissect the evidence for the emerging paradigm linking neurotransmitters and their receptors with breast cancer. Foremost, we explore the intricacies of such neurotransmitter-receptor interactions, including those that impinge on other cellular components of the tumor microenvironment, such as endothelial cells and immune cells. Moreover, we discuss findings where clinical agents used to treat neurological and/or psychological disorders have exhibited preventive/therapeutic effects against breast cancer in either associative or pre-clinical studies. Further, we elaborate on the current progress to identify druggable components of the psychological-neurological nexus that can be exploited for the prevention and treatment of breast cancer as well as other tumor types. We also provide our perspectives regarding future challenges in this field where multidisciplinary cooperation is a paramount requirement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruo Qi Li
- General Surgery Department, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China.,These authors contributed equally to this work
| | - Xiao Hong Zhao
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, The University of Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia.,These authors contributed equally to this work
| | - Qin Zhu
- General Surgery Department, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Tao Liu
- Children's Cancer Institute Australia for Medical Research, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Hubert Hondermarck
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, The University of Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rick F Thorne
- Translational Research Institute, Henan Provincial and Zhengzhou City Key laboratory of Non-coding RNA and Cancer Metabolism, Henan International Joint Laboratory of Non-coding RNA and Metabolism in Cancer, Zhengzhou University People's Hospital and Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Henan, China
| | - Xu Dong Zhang
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, The University of Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia.,Translational Research Institute, Henan Provincial and Zhengzhou City Key laboratory of Non-coding RNA and Cancer Metabolism, Henan International Joint Laboratory of Non-coding RNA and Metabolism in Cancer, Zhengzhou University People's Hospital and Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Henan, China
| | - Jin Nan Gao
- General Surgery Department, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
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33
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Le TT, Oudin MJ. Understanding and modeling nerve-cancer interactions. Dis Model Mech 2023; 16:dmm049729. [PMID: 36621886 PMCID: PMC9844229 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.049729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The peripheral nervous system plays an important role in cancer progression. Studies in multiple cancer types have shown that higher intratumoral nerve density is associated with poor outcomes. Peripheral nerves have been shown to directly regulate tumor cell properties, such as growth and metastasis, as well as affect the local environment by modulating angiogenesis and the immune system. In this Review, we discuss the identity of nerves in organs in the periphery where solid tumors grow, the known mechanisms by which nerve density increases in tumors, and the effects these nerves have on cancer progression. We also discuss the strengths and weaknesses of current in vitro and in vivo models used to study nerve-cancer interactions. Increased understanding of the mechanisms by which nerves impact tumor progression and the development of new approaches to study nerve-cancer interactions will facilitate the discovery of novel treatment strategies to treat cancer by targeting nerves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thanh T. Le
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, 200 College Avenue, Tufts University, Medford, MA 02155, USA
| | - Madeleine J. Oudin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, 200 College Avenue, Tufts University, Medford, MA 02155, USA
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An Overview of the Molecular Cues and Their Intracellular Signaling Shared by Cancer and the Nervous System: From Neurotransmitters to Synaptic Proteins, Anatomy of an All-Inclusive Cooperation. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232314695. [PMID: 36499024 PMCID: PMC9739679 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232314695] [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: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
We propose an overview of the molecular cues and their intracellular signaling involved in the crosstalk between cancer and the nervous system. While "cancer neuroscience" as a field is still in its infancy, the relation between cancer and the nervous system has been known for a long time, and a huge body of experimental data provides evidence that tumor-nervous system connections are widespread. They encompass different mechanisms at different tumor progression steps, are multifaceted, and display some intriguing analogies with the nervous system's physiological processes. Overall, we can say that many of the paradigmatic "hallmarks of cancer" depicted by Weinberg and Hanahan are affected by the nervous system in a variety of manners.
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35
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Le TT, Payne SL, Buckwald MN, Hayes LA, Parker SR, Burge CB, Oudin MJ. Sensory nerves enhance triple-negative breast cancer invasion and metastasis via the axon guidance molecule PlexinB3. NPJ Breast Cancer 2022; 8:116. [PMID: 36333352 PMCID: PMC9636220 DOI: 10.1038/s41523-022-00485-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
In breast cancer, nerve presence has been correlated with more invasive disease and worse prognosis, yet the mechanisms by which different types of peripheral nerves drive tumor progression remain poorly understood. In this study, we identified sensory nerves as more abundant in human triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) tumors. Co-injection of sensory neurons isolated from the dorsal root ganglia (DRG) of adult female mice with human TNBC cells in immunocompromised mice increased the number of lung metastases. Direct in vitro co-culture of human TNBC cells with the dorsal root ganglia (DRG) of adult female mice revealed that TNBC cells adhere to sensory neuron fibers leading to an increase in migration speed. Species-specific RNA sequencing revealed that co-culture of TNBC cells with sensory nerves upregulates the expression of genes associated with cell migration and adhesion in cancer cells. We demonstrated that lack of the semaphorin receptor PlexinB3 in cancer cells attenuate their adhesion to and migration on sensory nerves. Together, our results identify a mechanism by which nerves contribute to breast cancer migration and metastasis by inducing a shift in TNBC cell gene expression and support the rationale for disrupting neuron-cancer cell interactions to target metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thanh T Le
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, 200 College Avenue, Medford, MA, 02155, USA
| | - Samantha L Payne
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, 200 College Avenue, Medford, MA, 02155, USA
| | - Maia N Buckwald
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, 200 College Avenue, Medford, MA, 02155, USA
| | - Lily A Hayes
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, 200 College Avenue, Medford, MA, 02155, USA
| | - Savannah R Parker
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, 200 College Avenue, Medford, MA, 02155, USA
| | | | - Madeleine J Oudin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, 200 College Avenue, Medford, MA, 02155, USA.
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36
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Crosstalk between the peripheral nervous system and breast cancer influences tumor progression. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2022; 1877:188828. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2022.188828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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37
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Pan C, Winkler F. Insights and opportunities at the crossroads of cancer and neuroscience. Nat Cell Biol 2022; 24:1454-1460. [PMID: 36097070 DOI: 10.1038/s41556-022-00978-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The biological and pathological importance of mutual interactions between the nervous system and cancer have become increasingly evident. The emerging field of cancer neuroscience aims to decipher key signalling factors of cancer-nervous system crosstalk and to exploit these modulators as targets for improved anticancer therapies. Here we discuss the key achievements in cancer neuroscience research, inspire further interactions on a variety of related research topics, and provide a roadmap for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenchen Pan
- Neurology Clinic and National Center for Tumor Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,Clinical Cooperation Unit Neurooncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Frank Winkler
- Neurology Clinic and National Center for Tumor Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany. .,Clinical Cooperation Unit Neurooncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.
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38
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The Role of Neural Signaling in the Pancreatic Cancer Microenvironment. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14174269. [PMID: 36077804 PMCID: PMC9454556 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14174269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Pancreatic cancer is a highly lethal malignant disease with a dense stroma, called the tumor microenvironment. Accumulating evidence indicates the important role of sympathetic, parasympathetic, and sensory nerves in the tumor microenvironment of various cancers, including pancreatic cancer. Cancer cells and neural cells interact with each other to form a complex network and cooperatively promote cancer growth and invasion. In this review article, we describe the current understanding of the role of nerves in the tumor microenvironment. Abstract Pancreatic cancer is one of the most lethal malignant diseases. Various cells in the tumor microenvironment interact with tumor cells and orchestrate to support tumor progression. Several kinds of nerves are found in the tumor microenvironment, and each plays an essential role in tumor biology. Recent studies have shown that sympathetic, parasympathetic, and sensory neurons are found in the pancreatic cancer microenvironment. Neural signaling not only targets neural cells, but tumor cells and immune cells via neural receptors expressed on these cells, through which tumor growth, inflammation, and anti-tumor immunity are affected. Thus, these broad-range effects of neural signaling in the pancreatic cancer microenvironment may represent novel therapeutic targets. The modulation of neural signaling may be a therapeutic strategy targeting the whole tumor microenvironment. In this review, we describe the current understanding of the role of nerves in the tumor microenvironment of various cancers, with an emphasis on pancreatic cancer. We also discuss the underlying mechanisms and the possibility of therapeutic applications.
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Basseville A, Cordier C, Ben Azzouz F, Gouraud W, Lasla H, Panloup F, Campone M, Jézéquel P. Brain Neural Progenitors are New Predictive Biomarkers for Breast Cancer Hormonotherapy. CANCER RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS 2022; 2:857-869. [PMID: 36923306 PMCID: PMC10010318 DOI: 10.1158/2767-9764.crc-21-0090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Heterogeneity of the tumor microenvironment (TME) is one of the major causes of treatment resistance in breast cancer. Among TME components, nervous system role in clinical outcome has been underestimated. Identifying neuronal signatures associated with treatment response will help to characterize neuronal influence on tumor progression and identify new treatment targets. The search for hormonotherapy-predictive biomarkers was implemented by supervised machine learning (ML) analysis on merged transcriptomics datasets from public databases. ML-derived genes were investigated by pathway enrichment analysis, and potential gene signatures were curated by removing the variables that were not strictly nervous system specific. The predictive and prognostic abilities of the generated signatures were examined by Cox models, in the initial cohort and seven external cohorts. Generated signature performances were compared with 14 other published signatures, in both the initial and external cohorts. Underlying biological mechanisms were explored using deconvolution tools (CIBERSORTx and xCell). Our pipeline generated two nervous system-related signatures of 24 genes and 97 genes (NervSign24 and NervSign97). These signatures were prognostic and hormonotherapy-predictive, but not chemotherapy-predictive. When comparing their predictive performance with 14 published risk signatures in six hormonotherapy-treated cohorts, NervSign97 and NervSign24 were the two best performers. Pathway enrichment score and deconvolution analysis identified brain neural progenitor presence and perineural invasion as nervous system-related mechanisms positively associated with NervSign97 and poor clinical prognosis in hormonotherapy-treated patients. Transcriptomic profiling has identified two nervous system-related signatures that were validated in clinical samples as hormonotherapy-predictive signatures, meriting further exploration of neuronal component involvement in tumor progression. Significance The development of personalized and precision medicine is the future of cancer therapy. With only two gene expression signatures approved by FDA for breast cancer, we are in need of new ones that can reliably stratify patients for optimal treatment. This study provides two hormonotherapy-predictive and prognostic signatures that are related to nervous system in TME. It highlights tumor neuronal components as potential new targets for breast cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnes Basseville
- Omics Data Science Unit, Institut de Cancérologie de l'Ouest (ICO), Angers-Nantes, France.,SIRIC ILIAD, Angers-Nantes, France
| | - Chiara Cordier
- Omics Data Science Unit, Institut de Cancérologie de l'Ouest (ICO), Angers-Nantes, France.,SIRIC ILIAD, Angers-Nantes, France.,Laboratoire Angevin de Recherche en Mathématiques (LAREMA), Université d'Angers, Angers, France
| | - Fadoua Ben Azzouz
- Omics Data Science Unit, Institut de Cancérologie de l'Ouest (ICO), Angers-Nantes, France.,SIRIC ILIAD, Angers-Nantes, France
| | - Wilfried Gouraud
- Omics Data Science Unit, Institut de Cancérologie de l'Ouest (ICO), Angers-Nantes, France.,SIRIC ILIAD, Angers-Nantes, France
| | - Hamza Lasla
- Omics Data Science Unit, Institut de Cancérologie de l'Ouest (ICO), Angers-Nantes, France.,SIRIC ILIAD, Angers-Nantes, France
| | - Fabien Panloup
- Laboratoire Angevin de Recherche en Mathématiques (LAREMA), Université d'Angers, Angers, France
| | - Mario Campone
- SIRIC ILIAD, Angers-Nantes, France.,Institut de Cancérologie de l'Ouest (ICO), Angers-Nantes, France
| | - Pascal Jézéquel
- Omics Data Science Unit, Institut de Cancérologie de l'Ouest (ICO), Angers-Nantes, France.,SIRIC ILIAD, Angers-Nantes, France.,CRCI2NA, Inserm UMR1307/CNRS UMR 6075/Université de Nantes, Nantes, France
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40
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Crippa S, Pergolini I, Javed AA, Honselmann KC, Weiss MJ, Di Salvo F, Burkhart R, Zamboni G, Belfiori G, Ferrone CR, Rubini C, Yu J, Gasparini G, Qadan M, He J, Lillemoe KD, Castillo CFD, Wolfgang CL, Falconi M. Implications of Perineural Invasion on Disease Recurrence and Survival After Pancreatectomy for Pancreatic Head Ductal Adenocarcinoma. Ann Surg 2022; 276:378-385. [PMID: 33086324 DOI: 10.1097/sla.0000000000004464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe PNI and to evaluate its impact on disease-free (DFS) and overall survival (OS) in patients with resected pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Although PNI is a prognostic factor for survival in many GI cancers, there is limited knowledge regarding its impact on tumor recurrence, especially in ''early stage disease'' (PDAC ≤20 mm, R0/ N0 PDAC). METHODS This multicenter retrospective study included patients undergoing PDAC resection between 2009 and 2014. The association of PNI with DFS and OS was analyzed using Cox proportional-hazards models. RESULTS PNI was found in 87% of 778 patients included in the study, with lower rates in PDAC ≤20 mm (78.7%) and in R0/N0 tumors (70.6%). PNI rate did not differ between patients who underwent neoadjuvant therapy and upfront surgery (88% vs 84%, P = 0.08). Although not significant at multivariate analysis ( P = 0.07), patients with PNI had worse DFS at univariate analysis (median DFS: 20 vs 15 months, P < 0.01). PNI was the only independent predictor of DFS in R0/N0 tumors (hazard ratio [HR]: 2.2) and in PDAC ≤ 20 mm (HR: 1.8). PNI was an independent predictor of OS in the entire cohort (27 vs 50 months, P = 0.01), together with G3 tumors, pN1 status, carbohydrate antigen (CA) 19.9 >37 and pain. CONCLUSIONS PNI represents a major determinant of tumor recurrence and patients' survival in pancreatic cancer. The role of PNI is particularly relevant in early stages, supporting the hypothesis that invasion of nerves by cancer cells has a driving role in pancreatic cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Crippa
- School of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Division of Pancreatic Surgery, Pancreas Translational & Clinical Research Center, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Ilaria Pergolini
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Ammar A Javed
- Department of Surgery, The Sol Goldman Pancreatic Cancer Research Center, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Kim C Honselmann
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Matthew J Weiss
- Department of Surgery, The Sol Goldman Pancreatic Cancer Research Center, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Francesca Di Salvo
- School of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Division of Pancreatic Surgery, Pancreas Translational & Clinical Research Center, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Richard Burkhart
- Department of Surgery, The Sol Goldman Pancreatic Cancer Research Center, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Giuseppe Zamboni
- Department of Pathology, Ospedale Sacro Cuore-Don Calabria, Negrar, Italy
| | - Giulio Belfiori
- School of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Division of Pancreatic Surgery, Pancreas Translational & Clinical Research Center, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Cristina R Ferrone
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Corrado Rubini
- Department of Pathology, Universita` Politecnica delle Marche, Ospedali Riuniti, Ancona, Italy
| | - Jun Yu
- Department of Surgery, The Sol Goldman Pancreatic Cancer Research Center, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Giulia Gasparini
- School of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Division of Pancreatic Surgery, Pancreas Translational & Clinical Research Center, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Motaz Qadan
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jin He
- Department of Surgery, The Sol Goldman Pancreatic Cancer Research Center, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Keith D Lillemoe
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - Christopher L Wolfgang
- Department of Surgery, The Sol Goldman Pancreatic Cancer Research Center, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Massimo Falconi
- School of Medicine, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Division of Pancreatic Surgery, Pancreas Translational & Clinical Research Center, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
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41
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Electroacupuncture promotes apoptosis and inhibits axonogenesis by activating p75 neurotrophin receptor for triple-negative breast xenograft in mice. J Chem Neuroanat 2022; 124:102133. [PMID: 35777527 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchemneu.2022.102133] [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: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 06/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/26/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to investigate the anti-tumor effect of electroacupuncture (EA) on mice bearing breast tumors by regulating p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR) and remodelling intratumoral innervation. METHODS Female BALB/c mice were implanted with 4T1 breast tumor cells to establish a murine mammary cancer model. Tumor volume and weight were measured to evaluate tumor growth. Cell apoptosis was assessed by TUNEL assay. The relative expression of p75NTR, TrkA, TrkB, NGF and proNGF were detected by immunohistochemistry. Neurotransmitter and neurotrophin were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Intratumoral innervation was confirmed by β3-tubulin and TH labeling immunohistochemistry. The antagonist TAT-Pep5 was employed to determine if the effects of EA on tumor growth and cell apoptosis were mediated by p75NTR. RESULTS Peritumoral EA alleviated tumor growth especially after 14 days of intervention. Apoptosis index in the tumor tissue was obviously decreased after EA. Meanwhile, EA intervention significantly upregulated the expression of p75NTR and proNGF, along with a decline in the tumor growth and an increase in the cell apoptosis. Besides, EA reduced local sympathetic innervation and downregulated sympathetic neurotransmitter NE level in the local tumor. Furthermore, p75NTR antagonist alleviated EA-mediated cell apoptosis and intratumoral innervation. CONCLUSIONS One mechanism of EA intervention for alleviating tumor progression is mediated by p75NTR to promote apoptosis and decrease intratumoral axonogenesis in the tumor microenvironment.
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42
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Gu I, Gregory E, Atwood C, Lee SO, Song YH. Exploring the Role of Metabolites in Cancer and the Associated Nerve Crosstalk. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14091722. [PMID: 35565690 PMCID: PMC9103817 DOI: 10.3390/nu14091722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Since Otto Warburg's first report on the increased uptake of glucose and lactate release by cancer cells, dysregulated metabolism has been acknowledged as a hallmark of cancer that promotes proliferation and metastasis. Over the last century, studies have shown that cancer metabolism is complex, and by-products of glucose and glutamine catabolism induce a cascade of both pro- and antitumorigenic processes. Some vitamins, which have traditionally been praised for preventing and inhibiting the proliferation of cancer cells, have also been proven to cause cancer progression in a dose-dependent manner. Importantly, recent findings have shown that the nervous system is a key player in tumor growth and metastasis via perineural invasion and tumor innervation. However, the link between cancer-nerve crosstalk and tumor metabolism remains unclear. Here, we discuss the roles of relatively underappreciated metabolites in cancer-nerve crosstalk, including lactate, vitamins, and amino acids, and propose the investigation of nutrients in cancer-nerve crosstalk based on their tumorigenicity and neuroregulatory capabilities. Continued research into the metabolic regulation of cancer-nerve crosstalk will provide a more comprehensive understanding of tumor mechanisms and may lead to the identification of potential targets for future cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inah Gu
- Department of Food Science, Division of Agriculture, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72704, USA
| | - Emory Gregory
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA
| | - Casey Atwood
- Department of Food Science, Division of Agriculture, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72704, USA
| | - Sun-Ok Lee
- Department of Food Science, Division of Agriculture, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72704, USA
| | - Young Hye Song
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701, USA
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43
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Ding L, Tang S, Yu A, Wang A, Tang W, Jia H, Oupický D. Nanoemulsion-Assisted siRNA Delivery to Modulate the Nervous Tumor Microenvironment in the Treatment of Pancreatic Cancer. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:10015-10029. [PMID: 35188730 PMCID: PMC9153289 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.1c21997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) is a fatal human cancer, whose progression is highly dependent on the nervous tumor microenvironment. In the present study, cationic perfluorocarbon nanoemulsions were employed as an intraperitoneal delivery platform to facilitate the delivery and penetration of a therapeutic small interfering RNA (siRNA) to orthotopic pancreatic tumors. The nanoemulsion was used to silence the expression of the nerve growth factor (NGF) as a way of favorably modulating the tumor-neuronal interactions in pancreatic tumors. The nanoemulsions exhibited deep tumor penetration that was dependent on exocytosis and enhanced NGF gene silencing in vitro and in vivo when compared with control polycation/siRNA polyplexes, leading to the effective and safe suppression of tumor growth in orthotopic PC. Overall, emulsion-assisted delivery of NGF siRNA is a promising treatment approach for PC by targeting the interactions between the tumor cells and the nervous microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Ding
- Center for Drug Delivery and Nanomedicine, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 68198, USA
| | - Siyuan Tang
- Center for Drug Delivery and Nanomedicine, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 68198, USA
| | - Ao Yu
- Center for Drug Delivery and Nanomedicine, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 68198, USA
| | - Anlin Wang
- Center for Drug Delivery and Nanomedicine, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 68198, USA
| | - Weimin Tang
- Center for Drug Delivery and Nanomedicine, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 68198, USA
| | - Huizhen Jia
- Center for Drug Delivery and Nanomedicine, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 68198, USA
| | - David Oupický
- Center for Drug Delivery and Nanomedicine, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska 68198, USA
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44
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Astono IP, Welsh JS, Rowe CW, Jobling P. Objective quantification of nerves in immunohistochemistry specimens of thyroid cancer utilising deep learning. PLoS Comput Biol 2022; 18:e1009912. [PMID: 35226665 PMCID: PMC8912900 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1009912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Accurate quantification of nerves in cancer specimens is important to understand cancer behaviour. Typically, nerves are manually detected and counted in digitised images of thin tissue sections from excised tumours using immunohistochemistry. However the images are of a large size with nerves having substantial variation in morphology that renders accurate and objective quantification difficult using existing manual and automated counting techniques. Manual counting is precise, but time-consuming, susceptible to inconsistency and has a high rate of false negatives. Existing automated techniques using digitised tissue sections and colour filters are sensitive, however, have a high rate of false positives. In this paper we develop a new automated nerve detection approach, based on a deep learning model with an augmented classification structure. This approach involves pre-processing to extract the image patches for the deep learning model, followed by pixel-level nerve detection utilising the proposed deep learning model. Outcomes assessed were a) sensitivity of the model in detecting manually identified nerves (expert annotations), and b) the precision of additional model-detected nerves. The proposed deep learning model based approach results in a sensitivity of 89% and a precision of 75%. The code and pre-trained model are publicly available at https://github.com/IA92/Automated_Nerves_Quantification. The study of nerves as a prognostic marker for cancer is becoming increasingly important. However, accurate quantification of nerves in cancer specimens is difficult to achieve due to limitations in the existing manual and automated quantification methods. Manual quantification is time-consuming and subject to bias, whilst automated quantification, in general, has a high rate of false detections that makes it somewhat unreliable. In this paper, we propose an automated nerve quantification approach based on a novel deep learning model structure for objective nerve quantification in immunohistochemistry specimens of thyroid cancer. We evaluate the performance of the proposed approach by comparing it with existing manual and automated quantification methods. We show that our proposed approach is superior to the existing manual and automated quantification methods. The proposed approach is shown to have a high precision as well as being able to detect a significant number of nerves not detected by the experts in manual counting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Indriani P. Astono
- School of Engineering, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - James S. Welsh
- School of Engineering, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
| | - Christopher W. Rowe
- School of Medicine and Public Health, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
| | - Phillip Jobling
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
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45
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Li D, Hu LN, Zheng SM, La T, Wei LY, Zhang XJ, Zhang ZH, Xing J, Wang L, Li RQ, Zhu Q, Thorne RF, Feng YC, Hondermarck H, Zhang XD, Li L, Gao JN. High nerve density in breast cancer is associated with poor patient outcome. FASEB Bioadv 2022; 4:391-401. [PMID: 35664834 PMCID: PMC9164247 DOI: 10.1096/fba.2021-00147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 02/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Dong Li
- Department of Breast Surgery Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University and Shanxi Bethune Hospital Shanxi Academy of Medical Science Taiyuan Shanxi 030032 China
| | - Li Na Hu
- Department of Pathology Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University and Shanxi Bethune Hospital Shanxi Academy of Medical Science Taiyuan Shanxi 030032 China
| | - Si Min Zheng
- Department of Breast Surgery Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University and Shanxi Bethune Hospital Shanxi Academy of Medical Science Taiyuan Shanxi 030032 China
| | - Ting La
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy and Hunter Medical Research Institute The University of Newcastle NSW 2308 Australia
| | - Li Yuan Wei
- Department of Breast Surgery Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University and Shanxi Bethune Hospital Shanxi Academy of Medical Science Taiyuan Shanxi 030032 China
| | - Xiao Jun Zhang
- Department of Breast Surgery Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University and Shanxi Bethune Hospital Shanxi Academy of Medical Science Taiyuan Shanxi 030032 China
| | - Zhen Hua Zhang
- Department of Pathology Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University and Shanxi Bethune Hospital Shanxi Academy of Medical Science Taiyuan Shanxi 030032 China
| | - Jun Xing
- Department of Breast Surgery Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University and Shanxi Bethune Hospital Shanxi Academy of Medical Science Taiyuan Shanxi 030032 China
| | - Li Wang
- School of Basic Medicine Sciences Zhengzhou University Henan 450053 China
| | - Ruo Qi Li
- Department of Breast Surgery Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University and Shanxi Bethune Hospital Shanxi Academy of Medical Science Taiyuan Shanxi 030032 China
| | - Qin Zhu
- Department of Breast Surgery Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University and Shanxi Bethune Hospital Shanxi Academy of Medical Science Taiyuan Shanxi 030032 China
| | - Rick F. Thorne
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy and Hunter Medical Research Institute The University of Newcastle NSW 2308 Australia
- Translational Research Institute Henan Provincial People’s Hospital and People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University Academy of Medical Science Zhengzhou University Henan 450053 China
| | - Yu Chen Feng
- School of Medicine and Public Health and Hunter Medical Research Institute The University of Newcastle NSW 2308 Australia
| | - Hubert Hondermarck
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy and Hunter Medical Research Institute The University of Newcastle NSW 2308 Australia
| | - Xu Dong Zhang
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy and Hunter Medical Research Institute The University of Newcastle NSW 2308 Australia
- Translational Research Institute Henan Provincial People’s Hospital and People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University Academy of Medical Science Zhengzhou University Henan 450053 China
| | - Li Li
- Department of Pathology Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University and Shanxi Bethune Hospital Shanxi Academy of Medical Science Taiyuan Shanxi 030032 China
| | - Jin Nan Gao
- Department of Breast Surgery Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University and Shanxi Bethune Hospital Shanxi Academy of Medical Science Taiyuan Shanxi 030032 China
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46
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Abstract
Nervous system activity regulates development, homeostasis, and plasticity of the brain as well as other organs in the body. These mechanisms are subverted in cancer to propel malignant growth. In turn, cancers modulate neural structure and function to augment growth-promoting neural signaling in the tumor microenvironment. Approaching cancer biology from a neuroscience perspective will elucidate new therapeutic strategies for presently lethal forms of cancer. In this review, we highlight the neural signaling mechanisms recapitulated in primary brain tumors, brain metastases, and solid tumors throughout the body that regulate cancer progression. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Neuroscience, Volume 45 is July 2022. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael B Keough
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA;
| | - Michelle Monje
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA;
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47
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Kaur B, Mukhlis Y, Natesh J, Penta D, Musthapa Meeran S. Identification of hub genes associated with EMT-induced chemoresistance in breast cancer using integrated bioinformatics analysis. Gene 2022; 809:146016. [PMID: 34655723 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2021.146016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Revised: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Chemoresistance is one of the major challenges in the treatment of breast cancer. Recent evidence suggests that epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) plays a critical role in not only metastasis but also in chemoresistance, hence causing tumor relapse. This study aimed to identify the hub genes associated with EMT and chemoresistance in breast cancer affecting patient/clinical survival. Commonly differentially expressed genes (DEGs) during EMT and chemoresistance in breast cancer cells were identified using publicly available datasets, GSE23655, GSE39359, GSE33146 and GSE76540. Hierarchical clustering analysis was utilized to determine the commonly DEGs expression pattern in chemoresistant (CR) breast cancer cells. GSEA revealed that EMT-related genes sets were enriched in the CR samples. Further, we found that EMT-induced breast cancer cells showed overexpression of drug efflux transporters along with resistance to chemotherapeutic drug. Pathway enrichment analysis revealed that the commonly DEGs were enriched in immunological pathways, early endosome, protein dimerization, and proteoglycans in cancer. Further, we identified eight hub genes from the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network. We validated the gene expression levels of the hub genes among TCGA breast cancer samples using UALCAN. Survival analysis for the hub genes was performed using KM plotter, which showed a worse relapse-free survival (RFS) of the hub genes among breast cancer patients. In conclusion, this study identified eight hub genes that play an important role in the pathways underlying EMT-induced chemoresistance in breast cancer and can be used as therapeutic targets after clinical validation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhavjot Kaur
- Department of Biochemistry, CSIR-Central Food Technological Research Institute, Mysuru 570020, Karnataka, India
| | - Yahya Mukhlis
- Department of Biochemistry, CSIR-Central Food Technological Research Institute, Mysuru 570020, Karnataka, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | - Jagadish Natesh
- Department of Biochemistry, CSIR-Central Food Technological Research Institute, Mysuru 570020, Karnataka, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | - Dhanamjai Penta
- Department of Biochemistry, CSIR-Central Food Technological Research Institute, Mysuru 570020, Karnataka, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | - Syed Musthapa Meeran
- Department of Biochemistry, CSIR-Central Food Technological Research Institute, Mysuru 570020, Karnataka, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India.
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48
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Chang A, Sloan EK, Antoni MH, Knight JM, Telles R, Lutgendorf SK. Biobehavioral Pathways and Cancer Progression: Insights for Improving Well-Being and Cancer Outcomes. Integr Cancer Ther 2022; 21:15347354221096081. [PMID: 35579197 PMCID: PMC9118395 DOI: 10.1177/15347354221096081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The relationship between psychosocial factors and cancer has intrigued people for centuries. In the last several decades there has been an expansion of mechanistic research that has revealed insights regarding how stress activates neuroendocrine stress-response systems to impact cancer progression. Here, we review emerging mechanistic findings on key pathways implicated in the effect of stress on cancer progression, including the cellular immune response, inflammation, angiogenesis, and metastasis, with a primary focus on the mediating role of the sympathetic nervous system. We discuss converging findings from preclinical and clinical cancer research that describe these pathways and research that reveals how these stress pathways may be targeted via pharmacological and mind-body based interventions. While further research is required, the body of work reviewed here highlights the need for and feasibility of an integrated approach to target stress pathways in cancer patients to achieve comprehensive cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aeson Chang
- Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Drug Discovery Biology, Monash University, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Erica K. Sloan
- Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Drug Discovery Biology, Monash University, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Cousins Center for Psychoneuroimmunology, Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Division of Surgery, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Michael H. Antoni
- Departments of Psychology, Psychiatry, and Behavioral Sciences, and Cancer Control Program, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Jennifer M. Knight
- Department of Psychiatry and Cancer Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Rachel Telles
- Departments of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Urology, and Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Susan K. Lutgendorf
- Departments of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Urology, and Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
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49
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Restaino AC, Vermeer PD. Neural regulations of the tumor microenvironment. FASEB Bioadv 2022; 4:29-42. [PMID: 35024571 PMCID: PMC8728107 DOI: 10.1096/fba.2021-00066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The identification of nerves in the tumor microenvironment has ushered in a new area of research in cancer biology. Numerous studies demonstrate the presence of various types of peripheral nerves (sympathetic, parasympathetic, sensory) within the tumor microenvironment; moreover, an increased density of nerves in the tumor microenvironment correlates with worse prognosis. In this review, we address the current understanding of nerve-mediated alterations of the tumor microenvironment and how they impact disease through a variety of processes, including direct nerve-cancer cell communication, alteration of the infiltrative immune population, and alteration of stromal components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony C. Restaino
- Sanford ResearchCancer Biology and Immunotherapies GroupSioux FallsSouth DakotaUSA
- University of South Dakota Sanford School of MedicineVermillionSouth DakotaUSA
| | - Paola D. Vermeer
- Sanford ResearchCancer Biology and Immunotherapies GroupSioux FallsSouth DakotaUSA
- University of South Dakota Sanford School of MedicineVermillionSouth DakotaUSA
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50
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Licitra F, Giovannelli P, Di Donato M, Monaco A, Galasso G, Migliaccio A, Castoria G. New Insights and Emerging Therapeutic Approaches in Prostate Cancer. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:840787. [PMID: 35222290 PMCID: PMC8873523 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.840787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer is the second most frequently diagnosed cancer in men and several therapeutic approaches are currently available for patient's care. Although the androgen receptor status represents a good predictor of response to androgen deprivation therapy, prostate cancer frequently becomes resistant to this approach and spreads. The molecular mechanisms that contribute to progression and drug-resistance of this cancer remain still debated. However, few therapeutic options are available for patient's management, at this stage. Recent years have seen a great expansion of the studies concerning the role of stromal-epithelial interactions and tumor microenvironment in prostate cancer progression. The findings so far collected have provided new insights into diagnostic and clinical management of prostate cancer patients. Further, new fascinating aspects concerning the intersection of the androgen receptor with survival factors as well as calcium channels have been reported in cultured prostate cancer cells and mouse models. The results of these researches have opened the way for a better understanding of the basic mechanisms involved in prostate cancer invasion and drug-resistance. They have also significantly expanded the list of new biomarkers and druggable targets in prostate cancer. The primary aim of this manuscript is to provide an update of these issues, together with their translational aspects. Exploiting the power of novel promising therapeutics would increase the success rate in the diagnostic path and clinical management of patients with advanced disease.
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