New perspectives in cancer: Modulation of lipid metabolism and inflammation resolution

Identification of an inflammatory response-related gene prognostic signature and immune microenvironment for cervical cancer

Background: Cervical cancer (CC) is the fourth most common cancer among women worldwide. As part of the brisk cross-talk between the host and the tumor, prognosis can be affected through inflammatory responses or the tumor microenvironment. However, further exploration of the inflammatory response-related genes that have prognostic value, microenvironment infiltration, and chemotherapeutic therapies in CC is needed. Methods: The clinical data and mRNA expression profiles of CC patients were downloaded from a public database for this study. In the TCGA cohort, a multigene prognostic signature was constructed by least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) and Cox analyses. CC patients from the GEO cohort were used for validation. K‒M analysis was used to compare overall survival (OS) between the high- and low-risk groups. Univariate and multivariate Cox analyses were applied to determine the independent predictors of OS. The immune cell infiltration and immune-related functional score were calculated by single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA). Immunohistochemistry was utilized to validate the protein expression of prognostic genes in CC tissues. Results: A genetic signature model associated with the inflammatory response was built by LASSO Cox regression analysis. Patients in the high-risk group had a significantly lower OS rate. The predictive ability of the prognostic genes was evaluated by means of receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. The risk score was confirmed to be an independent predictor of OS by univariate and multivariate Cox analyses. The immune status differed between the high-risk and low-risk groups, and the cancer-related pathways were enriched in the high-risk group according to functional analysis. The risk score was significantly related to tumor stage and immune infiltration type. The expression levels of five prognostic genes (LCK, GCH1, TNFRSF9, ITGA5, and SLC7A1) were positively related to sensitivity to antitumor drugs. Additionally, the expression of prognostic genes was significantly different between CC tissues and myoma patient cervix (non-tumorous) tissues in the separate sample cohort. Conclusion: A model consisting of 5 inflammation-related genes can be used to predict prognosis and influence immune status in CC patients. Furthermore, the inhibition or enhancement of these genes may become a novel alternative therapy.

Tumor microenvironment in thyroid cancer: Immune cells, patterns, and novel treatments

The tumor immune microenvironment of thyroid cancer is the heterogeneous histological space in which tumor cells coexist with host cells. Published data from this review were identified by search and selection database of Pubmed, Elsevier, and Science Direct. Searching was made in two steps using different keywords. In thyroid pathology, the inflammatory response is very important, and might have a key role finding new diagnostic and therapeutic methods, particularly in thyroid cancer. Different immune cells may be more or less present in different types of thyroid cancer and may even have different functions, hence the importance of knowing their presence in different thyroid tumor pathologies. Cancer-related inflammation could be a useful target for new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies by analyzing peritumoral and intratumoral immune cells in different types of thyroid tumors. Moreover, novel strategies for thyroid cancer treatments, such as monoclonal antibodies targeting checkpoint inhibitors, are emerging as promising alternatives.

The Role of Specialized Pro-Resolving Lipid Mediators in Inflammation-Induced Carcinogenesis

Cancer is a process involving cell mutation, increased proliferation, invasion, and metastasis. Over the years, this condition has represented one of the most concerning health problems worldwide due to its significant morbidity and mortality. At present, the incidence of cancer continues to grow exponentially. Thus, it is imperative to open new avenues in cancer research to understand the molecular changes driving DNA transformation, cell-to-cell interaction derangements, and immune system surveillance decay. In this regard, evidence supports the relationship between chronic inflammation and cancer. In light of this, a group of bioactive lipids derived from polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) may have a position as novel anti-inflammatory molecules known as the specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs), a group of pro-resolutive inflammation agents that could improve the anti-tumor immunity. These molecules have the potential role of chemopreventive and therapeutic agents for various cancer types, and their effects have been documented in the scientific literature. Thus, this review objective centers around understanding the effect of SPMs on carcinogenesis and their potential therapeutic effect.

Programmed Cell Death Pathways in Cholangiocarcinoma: Opportunities for Targeted Therapy

Cholangiocarcinoma is a highly aggressive cancer arising from the bile ducts. The limited effectiveness of conventional therapies has prompted the search for new approaches to target this disease. Recent evidence suggests that distinct programmed cell death mechanisms, namely, apoptosis, ferroptosis, pyroptosis and necroptosis, play a critical role in the development and progression of cholangiocarcinoma. This review aims to summarize the current knowledge on the role of programmed cell death in cholangiocarcinoma and its potential implications for the development of novel therapies. Several studies have shown that the dysregulation of apoptotic signaling pathways contributes to cholangiocarcinoma tumorigenesis and resistance to treatment. Similarly, ferroptosis, pyroptosis and necroptosis, which are pro-inflammatory forms of cell death, have been implicated in promoting immune cell recruitment and activation, thus enhancing the antitumor immune response. Moreover, recent studies have suggested that targeting cell death pathways could sensitize cholangiocarcinoma cells to chemotherapy and immunotherapy. In conclusion, programmed cell death represents a relevant molecular mechanism of pathogenesis in cholangiocarcinoma, and further research is needed to fully elucidate the underlying details and possibly identify therapeutic strategies.

Disorders of cancer metabolism: The therapeutic potential of cannabinoids

Abnormal energy metabolism, as one of the important hallmarks of cancer, was induced by multiple carcinogenic factors and tumor-specific microenvironments. It comprises aerobic glycolysis, de novo lipid biosynthesis, and glutamine-dependent anaplerosis. Considering that metabolic reprogramming provides various nutrients for tumor survival and development, it has been considered a potential target for cancer therapy. Cannabinoids have been shown to exhibit a variety of anticancer activities by unclear mechanisms. This paper first reviews the recent progress of related signaling pathways (reactive oxygen species (ROS), AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK), phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K), hypoxia-inducible factor-1alpha (HIF-1α), and p53) mediating the reprogramming of cancer metabolism (including glucose metabolism, lipid metabolism, and amino acid metabolism). Then we comprehensively explore the latest discoveries and possible mechanisms of the anticancer effects of cannabinoids through the regulation of the above-mentioned related signaling pathways, to provide new targets and insights for cancer prevention and treatment.

A prospective analysis of red blood cell membrane polyunsaturated fatty acid levels and risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma

Published studies report inconsistent associations of polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) intake with non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) risk. We conducted a nested case-control study in Nurses' Health Study and Health Professionals Follow-Up Study participants to evaluate a hypothesis of inverse association of pre-diagnosis red blood cell (RBC) membrane PUFA levels with risk of NHL endpoints. We confirmed 583 NHL cases and matched 583 controls by cohort/sex, age, race and blood draw date/time. We estimated odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for risk of NHL endpoints using logistic regression. RBC PUFA levels were not associated with all NHL risk; cis 20:2n-6 was associated with follicular lymphoma risk (OR [95% CI] per one standard deviation increase: 1.35 [1.03-1.77]), and the omega-6/omega-3 PUFA ratio was associated with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma risk (2.33 [1.23-4.43]). Overall, PUFA did not demonstrate a role in NHL etiology; the two unexpected positive associations lack clear biologic explanations.

Circulating Fatty Acid Profile as a Biomarker for Immunotherapy in Advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

INTRODUCTION

Lipid metabolism impacts immune cell differentiation, activation, and functions, modulating inflammatory mediators, energy homeostasis, and cell membrane composition. Despite preclinical evidence, data in humans lack concerning tumors and immunotherapy (IO). We aimed at investigating the correlations between circulating lipids and the outcome of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients treated with IO.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We identified all patients with advanced NSCLC treated with IO at our Institution with available baseline plasma samples. Fatty acids (FAs) were analyzed through gas chromatography. Survival curves were estimated by the Kaplan-Meier method. Cox multivariate models were constructed through a stepwise procedure, with entry and exit P value set at .2.

RESULTS

We identified 112 patients, mostly with performance status 1 (65.2%) and PD-L1≥1% (75.3%). Median progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were 2.8 and 11.0 months, respectively. Multivariable model for survival identified a positive association of circulating free (FFA) C16:0 (P .005) and esterified (EFA) C16:1 (P .030) with PFS, and a positive association of EFA C16:1 (P .001) and EFA C18:0 (P .020) with OS. EFA C16:0 was negatively associated with PFS (P .008).

CONCLUSION

FFA C16:0 and FAs derived from its unsaturation (EFA C16:1) and elongation (EFA C18:0) are associated with a better outcome in NSCLC patients treated with IO. It is conceivable that the ratio among those FAs may modify membrane fluidity and receptor activity, influencing IO efficacy. These data pave the way for the investigation of lipid-modulating strategies in association with IO in NSCLC.

Ezetimibe and Cancer: Is There a Connection?

The high level of serum cholesterol caused by the excessive absorption of cholesterol can lead to hypercholesteremia, thus promoting the occurrence and development of cancer. Ezetimibe is a drug that reduces cholesterol absorption and has been widely used for the treatment of patients with high circulating cholesterol levels for many years. Mechanistically, ezetimibe works by binding to NPC1L1, which is a key mediator of cholesterol absorption. Accumulating data from preclinical models have shown that ezetimibe alone could inhibit the development and progression of cancer through a variety of mechanisms, including anti-angiogenesis, stem cell suppression, anti-inflammation, immune enhancement and anti-proliferation. In the past decade, there has been heated discussion on whether ezetimibe combined with statins will increase the risk of cancer. At present, more and more evidence shows that ezetimibe does not increase the risk of cancers, which supports the role of ezetimibe in anti-cancer. In this review, we discussed the latest progress in the anti-cancer properties of ezetimibe and elucidated its underlying molecular mechanisms. Finally, we highlighted the potential of ezetimibe as a therapeutic agent in future cancer treatment and prevention.

The probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) restrains the angiogenic potential of colorectal carcinoma cells by activating a pro-resolving program via formyl peptide receptor 1

Formyl peptide receptors (FPR1, FPR2 and FPR3) are innate immune sensors of pathogen and commensal bacteria and have a role in colonic mucosa homeostasis. We identified FPR1 as a tumour suppressor in gastric cancer cells due to its ability to sustain an inflammation resolution response with antiangiogenic potential. Here, we investigate whether FPR1 exerts similar functions in colorectal carcinoma (CRC) cells. Since it has been shown that the commensal bacterium Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) can promote intestinal epithelial homeostasis through FPR1, we explored the possibility that it could induce proresolving and antiangiogenic effects in CRC cells. We demonstrated that pharmacologic inhibition or genetic deletion of FPR1 in CRC cells caused a reduction of proresolving mediators and a consequent upregulation of angiogenic factors. The activation of FPR1 mediates opposite effects. Proresolving, antiangiogenic and homeostatic functions were also observed upon treatment of CRC cells with supernatant of LGG culture, but not of other lactic acid or nonprobiotic bacteria (i.e. Bifidobacterium bifidum or Escherichia coli). These activities of LGG are dependent on FPR1 expression and on the subsequent MAPK signalling activation. Thus, the innate immune receptor FPR1 could be a regulator of the balance between microbiota, inflammation and cancer in CRC models.

The Impact of Resolution of Inflammation on Tumor Microenvironment: Exploring New Ways to Control Cancer Progression

Simple Summary

The evolution of cancer is strongly influenced by the context in which tumor cells develop and grow, known as the tumor microenvironment (TME). The TME is constituted of a set of cells with different natures, which can produce various factors or interact with cancer cells, thus favoring or inhibiting cancer growth. Specific factors with the ability to shape the TME, in order to create an unfavorable context for tumor cells, are the Specialized Pro-resolving Mediators (SPMs). SPMs are small lipid molecules derived from ω-3 and ω-6 fatty acids, exerting the physiologic role of dampening the inflammatory responses and helping tissues to regain their homeostasis after insults. Here, we present the knowledge relative to the action of SPMs on each component of the TME and its effects on tumor growth and progression. These summarized findings highlight novel potential strategies to manage cancer progression.

Abstract

Non-resolving inflammation is an enabling feature of cancer. A novel super-family of lipid mediators termed Specialized Pro-resolving Mediators (SPMs) have a role as bioactive molecules mediating the resolution of inflammation in cancer biology. SPMs are derived from ω-3 and ω-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids through the activity of lipoxygenases. SPMs have been described to directly modulate cancer progression by interfering with the epithelial to mesenchymal transition and invasion of cancer cells. SPMs have also been demonstrated to act on several components of the tumor microenvironment (TME). Consistently with their natural immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties, SPMs are able to reprogram macrophages to favor phagocytosis of cell debris, which are an important source of pro-inflammatory and pro-angiogenic signals; sustain a direct cytotoxic immune response against cancer cells; stimulate neutrophils anti-tumor activities; and inhibit the development of regulatory T and B cells, thus indirectly leading to enhanced anti-tumor immunity. Furthermore, the resolution pathways exert crucial anti-angiogenic functions in lung, liver, and gastrointestinal cancers, and inhibit cancer-associated fibroblast differentiation and functions in hepatocellular carcinoma and pancreatic cancer. The present review will be focused on the potential protective effects of resolution pathways against cancer, exerted by modulating different components of the TME.

Contribution of n-3 Long-Chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids to the Prevention of Breast Cancer Risk Factors

Nowadays, diet and breast cancer are studied at different levels, particularly in tumor prevention and progression. Thus, the molecular mechanisms leading to better knowledge are deciphered with a higher precision. Among the molecules implicated in a preventive and anti-progressive way, n-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 LC-PUFAs) are good candidates. These molecules, like docosahexaenoic (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic (EPA) acids, are generally found in marine material, such as fat fishes or microalgae. EPA and DHA act as anti-proliferative, anti-invasive, and anti-angiogenic molecules in breast cancer cell lines, as well as in in vivo studies. A better characterization of the cellular and molecular pathways involving the action of these fatty acids is essential to have a realistic image of the therapeutic avenues envisaged behind their use. This need is reinforced by the increase in the number of clinical trials involving more and more n-3 LC-PUFAs, and this, in various pathologies ranging from obesity to a multitude of cancers. The objective of this review is, therefore, to highlight the new elements showing the preventive and beneficial effects of n-3 LC-PUFAs against the development and progression of breast cancer.

7S,15R-Dihydroxy-16S,17S-Epoxy-Docosapentaenoic Acid, a Novel DHA Epoxy Derivative, Inhibits Colorectal Cancer Stemness through Repolarization of Tumor-Associated Macrophage Functions and the ROS/STAT3 Signaling Pathway

Colorectal cancer is a highly malignant cancer that is inherently resistant to many chemotherapeutic drugs owing to the complicated tumor-supportive microenvironment (TME). Tumor-associated macrophages (TAM) are known to mediate colorectal cancer metastasis and relapse and are therefore a promising therapeutic target. In the current study, we first confirmed the anti-inflammatory effect of 7S,15R-dihydroxy-16S,17S-epoxy-docosapentaenoic acid (diHEP-DPA), a novel DHA dihydroxy derivative synthesized in our previous work. We found that diHEP-DPA significantly reduced lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammatory cytokines secretion of THP1 macrophages, IL-6, and TNF-α. As expected, diHEP-DPA also modulated TAM polarization, as evidenced by decreased gene and protein expression of the TAM markers, CD206, CD163, VEGF, and TGF-β1. During the polarization process, diHEP-DPA treatment decreased the concentration of TGF-β1, IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α in culture supernatants via inhibiting the NF-κB pathway. Moreover, diHEP-DPA blocked immunosuppression by reducing the expression of SIRPα in TAMs and CD47 in colorectal cancer cells. Knowing that an inflammatory TME largely serves to support epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and cancer stemness, we tested whether diHEP-DPA acted through polarization of TAMs to regulate these processes. The intraperitoneally injected diHEP-DPA inhibited tumor growth when administered alone or in combination with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) chemotherapy in vivo. We further found that diHEP-DPA effectively reversed TAM-conditioned medium (TCCM)-induced EMT and enhanced colorectal cancer stemness, as evidenced by its inhibition of colorectal cancer cell migration, invasion and expression of EMT markers, as well as cancer cell tumorspheres formation, without damaging colorectal cancer cells. DiHEP-DPA reduced the population of aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH)-positive cells and expression of colorectal stemness marker proteins (CD133, CD44, and Sox2) by modulating TAM polarization. Additionally, diHEP-DPA directly inhibited cancer stemness by inducing the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which, in turn, reduced the phosphorylation of nuclear signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3). These data collectively suggest that diHEP-DPA has the potential for development as an anticancer agent against colorectal cancer.

Sex Differences in Otolaryngology: Focus on the Emerging Role of Estrogens in Inflammatory and Pro-Resolving Responses

Otolaryngology (also known as ear, nose, and throat (ENT)) diseases can be significantly affected by the level of sex hormones, which indicates that sex differences affect the manifestation, pathophysiology, and outcomes of these diseases. Recently, increasing evidence has suggested that proinflammatory responses in ENT diseases are linked to the level of sex hormones. The sex hormone receptors are present on a wide variety of immune cells; therefore, it is evident that they play crucial roles in regulating the immune system and hence affect the disease progression of ENT diseases. In this review, we focus on how sex hormones, particularly estrogens, regulate ENT diseases, such as chronic rhinosinusitis, vocal fold polyps, thyroid cancer, Sjögren’s syndrome, and head and neck cancers, from the perspectives of inflammatory responses and specialized proresolving mediator-driven resolution. This paper aims to clarify why considering sex differences in the field of basic and medical research on otolaryngology is a key component to successful therapy for both males and females in the future.

Specialized Pro-Resolving Mediators Mitigate Cancer-Related Inflammation: Role of Tumor-Associated Macrophages and Therapeutic Opportunities

Inflammation is a fundamental physiological response orchestrated by innate immune cells to restore tissue homeostasis. Specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs) are involved in active resolution of inflammation but when inflammation is incomplete, chronic inflammation creates a favorable environment that fuels carcinogenesis and cancer progression. Conventional cancer therapy also strengthens cancer-related inflammation by inducing massive tumor cell death that activate surrounding immune-infiltrating cells such as tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). Macrophages are key actors of both inflammation and its active resolution due to their plastic phenotype. In line with this high plasticity, macrophages can be hijacked by cancer cells to support tumor progression and immune escape, or therapy resistance. Impaired resolution of cancer-associated inflammation supported by TAMs may thus reinforces tumor progression. From this perspective, recent evidence suggests that stimulating macrophage's pro-resolving functions using SPMs can promote inflammation resolution in cancer and improve anticancer treatments. Thus, TAMs' re-education toward an antitumor phenotype by using SPMs opens a new line of attack in cancer treatment. Here, we review SPMs' anticancer capacities with special attention regarding their effects on TAMs. We further discuss how this new therapeutic approach could be envisioned in cancer therapy.

The N-Formyl Peptide Receptors and Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Dangerous Liaison or Confusing Relationship?

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by a progressive symmetric inflammation of the joints resulting in bone erosion and cartilage destruction with a progressive loss of function and joint deformity. An increased number of findings support the role of innate immunity in RA: many innate immune mechanisms are responsible for producing several cytokines and chemokines involved in RA pathogenesis, such as Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-6, and IL-1. Pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) play a crucial role in modulating the activity of the innate arm of the immune response. We focused our attention over the years on the expression and functions of a specific class of PRR, namely formyl peptide receptors (FPRs), which exert a key function in both sustaining and resolving the inflammatory response, depending on the context and/or the agonist. We performed a broad review of the data available in the literature on the role of FPRs and their ligands in RA. Furthermore, we queried a publicly available database collecting data from 90 RA patients with different clinic features to evaluate the possible association between FPRs and clinic-pathologic parameters of RA patients.

Inositol hexaphosphate modulates the behavior of macrophages through alteration of gene expression involved in pathways of pro- and anti-inflammatory responses, and resolution of inflammation pathways

Inositol hexaphosphate (IP6) is a dietary compound commonly obtained from corn, rice, etc. Although we may consume significant amount of IP6 daily, it is unclear whether this diet will impact macrophages' fate and function. Therefore, we characterized the underlying relationship between IP6 and macrophage polarization in this study. We specifically examined the signature gene expression profiles associated with pro- and anti-inflammatory responses, and resolution of inflammation pathways in macrophages under the influence of IP6. Interestingly, our data suggested that IP6 polarizes bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDM) into an M2a-like subtype. Our results also demonstrated that IP6 reduces lipopolysaccharide-induced apoptosis and pro-inflammatory responses in macrophages. In contrast, the expression levels of genes related to anti-inflammatory responses and resolution of inflammation pathways are upregulated. Our findings collectively demonstrated that IP6 has profound modulation effects on macrophages, which warrant further research on the therapeutic benefits of IP6 for inflammatory diseases.

The complex roles of efferocytosis in cancer development, metastasis, and treatment

When tumor cells are killed by targeted therapy, radiotherapy, or chemotherapy, they trigger their primary tumor by releasing pro-inflammatory cytokines. Microenvironmental interactions can also promote tumor heterogeneity and development. In this line, several immune cells within the tumor microenvironment, including macrophages, dendritic cells, regulatory T-cells, and CD8⁺ and CD4⁺ T cells, are involved in the clearance of apoptotic tumor cells through a process called efferocytosis. Although the efficiency of apoptotic tumor cell efferocytosis is positive under physiological conditions, there are controversies regarding its usefulness in treatment-induced apoptotic tumor cells (ATCs). Efferocytosis can show the limitation of cytotoxic treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Since cytotoxic treatments lead to extensive cell mortality, efferocytosis, and macrophage polarization toward an M2 phenotype, the immune response may get involved in tumor recurrence and metastasis. Tumor cells can use the anti-inflammatory effect of apoptotic tumor cell efferocytosis to induce an immunosuppressive condition that is tumor-tolerant. Since M2 polarization and efferocytosis are tumor-promoting processes, the receptors on macrophages act as potential targets for cancer therapy. Moreover, researchers have shown that efferocytosis-related molecules/pathways are potential targets for cancer therapy. These include phosphatidylserine and calreticulin, Tyro3, Axl, and Mer tyrosine kinase (MerTK), receptors of tyrosine kinase, indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase 1, annexin V, CD47, TGF-β, IL-10, and macrophage phenotype switch are combined with conventional therapy, which can be more effective in cancer treatment. Thus, we set out to investigate the advantages and disadvantages of efferocytosis in treatment-induced apoptotic tumor cells.

13R,20-Dihydroxydocosahexaenoic Acid, a Novel Dihydroxy- DHA Derivative, Inhibits Breast Cancer Stemness through Regulation of the Stat3/IL-6 Signaling Pathway by Inducing ROS Production

Breast cancer is a major health problem worldwide. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are known to mediate breast cancer metastasis and recurrence and are therefore a promising therapeutic target. In this study, we investigated the anti-inflammatory effect of 13R,20-dihydroxydocosahexaenoic acid (13R,20-diHDHA), a novel dihydroxy-DHA derivative, which was synthesized through an enzymatic reaction using cyanobacterial lipoxygenase. We found that 13R,20-diHDHA reduced the macrophage secretion of the inflammatory cytokines, IL-6 and TNF-α, and thus appeared to have anti-inflammatory effects. As the inflammatory tumor microenvironment is largely devoted to supporting the cancer stemness of breast cancer cells, we investigated the effect of 13R,20-diHDHA on breast cancer stemness. Indeed, 13R,20-diHDHA effectively inhibited breast cancer stemness, as evidenced by its ability to dose-dependently inhibit the mammospheres formation, colony formation, migration, and invasion of breast CSCs. 13R,20-diHDHA reduced the populations of CD44^high/CD24^low and aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH)-positive cells and the expression levels of the cancer stemness-related self-renewal genes, Nanog, Sox2, Oct4, c-Myc, and CD44. 13R,20-diHDHA increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and the generated ROS reduced the phosphorylation of nuclear signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (Stat3) and the secretion of IL-6 by mammospheres. These data collectively suggest that 13R,20-diHDHA inhibits breast cancer stemness through ROS production and downstream regulation of Stat3/IL-6 signaling, and thus might be developed as an anti-cancer agent acting against CSCs.

Serum Metabolic Profiling Analysis of Chronic Gastritis and Gastric Cancer by Untargeted Metabolomics

Purpose

Gastric cancer is a common tumor of the digestive system. Identification of potential molecules associated with gastric cancer progression and validation of potential biomarkers for gastric cancer diagnosis are very important. Thus, the aim of our study was to determine the serum metabolic characteristics of the serum of patients with chronic gastritis (CG) or gastric cancer (GC) and validate candidate biomarkers for disease diagnosis.

Experimental Design

A total of 123 human serum samples from patients with CG or GC were collected for untargeted metabolomic analysis via UHPLC-Q-TOF/MS to determine characteristics of the serum. Principal component analysis (PCA), partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA), and heat map were used for multivariate analysis. In addition, commercial databases were used to identify the pathways of metabolites. Differential metabolites were identified based on a heat map with a t-test threshold (p < 0.05), fold-change threshold (FC > 1.5 or FC < 2/3) and variable importance in the projection (VIP >1). Then, differential metabolites were analyzed by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve to determine candidate biomarkers. All samples were analyzed for fasting lipid profiles.

Results

Analysis of serum metabolomic profiles indicated that most of the altered metabolic pathways in the three groups were associated with lipid metabolism (p < 0.05) and lipids and lipid-like molecules were the predominating metabolites within the top 100 differential metabolites (p < 0.05, FC > 1.5 or FC < 2/3, and VIP >1). Moreover, differential metabolites, including hexadecasphinganine, linoleamide, and N-Hydroxy arachidonoyl amine had high diagnostic performance according to PLS-DA. In addition, fasting lipid profile analysis showed the serum levels of total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and apolipoprotein A1 (Apo-A1) were decreased concomitant to the progression of the progression of the disease compared with those in the control group (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Thus, this study demonstrated that lipid metabolism may influence the development of CG to GC. Hexadecasphinganine, linoleamide, and N-Hydroxy arachidonoyl amine were selected as candidate diagnostic markers for CG and GC.

Toll-Like Receptor 7 Mediates Inflammation Resolution and Inhibition of Angiogenesis in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

Simple Summary

The progression of cancer is strictly linked to the formation of new blood vessels responsible for nutrition supply of the tumor. We identified TLR7 as an inhibitor of lung cancer vascularization. TLR7 is part of a large family of immune receptors that function as “sensors” of pathogen- and damage-derived signals. We found that TLR7 exerts antitumor functions in non-small cell lung cancer by inducing the production of specific molecules with inhibitory properties against new blood vessel formation. These molecules are known as specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs) and are derived from ω-3 and ω-6 fatty acids. We believe that the results obtained suggest novel potential targets and strategies to treat lung cancer.

Abstract

Pattern recognition receptors (PRR) promote inflammation but also its resolution. We demonstrated that a specific PRR—formyl peptide receptor 1 (FPR1)—sustains an inflammation resolution response with anti-angiogenic and antitumor potential in gastric cancer. Since toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7) is crucial in the physiologic resolution of airway inflammation, we asked whether it could be responsible for pro-resolving and anti-angiogenic responses in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). TLR7 correlated directly with pro-resolving and inversely with angiogenic mediators in NSCLC patients, as revealed by a publicly available RNAseq analysis. In NSCLC cells, depletion of TLR7 caused an upregulation of angiogenic mediators and a stronger vasculogenic response of endothelial cells compared to controls, assessed by qPCR, ELISA, protein array, and endothelial cell responses. TLR7 activation induced the opposite effects. TLR7 silencing reduced, while its activation increased, the pro-resolving potential of NSCLC cells, evaluated by qPCR, flow cytometry, and EIA. The increased angiogenic potential of TLR7-silenced NSCLC cells is due to the lack of pro-resolving mediators. MAPK and STAT3 signaling are responsible for these activities, as demonstrated through Western blotting and inhibitors. Our data indicate that TLR7 sustains a pro-resolving signaling in lung cancer that inhibits angiogenesis. This opens new possibilities to be exploited for cancer treatment.

Mass spectrometry-based lipidomics in food science and nutritional health: A comprehensive review

With the advance in science and technology as well as the improvement of living standards, the function of food is no longer just to meet the needs of survival. Food science and its associated nutritional health issues have been increasingly debated. Lipids, as complex metabolites, play a key role both in food and human health. Taking advantages of mass spectrometry (MS) by combining its high sensitivity and accuracy with extensive selective determination of all lipid classes, MS-based lipidomics has been employed to resolve the conundrum of addressing both qualitative and quantitative aspects of high-abundance and low-abundance lipids in complex food matrices. In this review, we systematically summarize current applications of MS-based lipidomics in food field. First, common MS-based lipidomics procedures are described. Second, the applications of MS-based lipidomics in food science, including lipid composition characterization, adulteration, traceability, and other issues, are discussed. Third, the application of MS-based lipidomics for nutritional health covering the influence of food on health and disease is introduced. Finally, future research trends and challenges are proposed. MS-based lipidomics plays an important role in the field of food science, promoting continuous development of food science and integration of food knowledge with other disciplines. New methods of MS-based lipidomics have been developed to improve accuracy and sensitivity of lipid analysis in food samples. These developments offer the possibility to fully characterize lipids in food samples, identify novel functional lipids, and better understand the role of food in promoting healt.

The Role of Endogenous Eicosapentaenoic Acid and Docosahexaenoic Acid-Derived Resolvins in Systemic Sclerosis

Resolvins, the member of specialized pro-resolving mediators, are produced from omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids as a response to an acute inflammatory process in that termination and resolution of inflammation. In the acute inflammation, these lipid mediators limit polymorphonuclear cells infiltration, proinflammatory cytokine production; promote efferocytosis, and regulate several cell types being important roles in innate and adaptive immunity. Any dysregulation or defect of the resolution phase result in prolonged, persistent inflammation and eventually fibrosis. Resolvins are implicated in the development of various chronic autoimmune diseases. Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a very complicated, chronic autoimmune disorder proceeding with vasculopathy, inflammation, and fibrosis. Dysregulation of innate and adaptive immunity is another important contributing factor in the pathogenesis of SSc. In this review, we will focus on the different roles of this new family of lipid mediators, characterized by the ability to prevent the spread of inflammation and its chronicity in various ways and how they can control the development of fibrotic diseases like SSc.

A Diet Rich in Fish Oil and Leucine Ameliorates Hypercalcemia in Tumour-Induced Cachectic Mice

Background: Dietary supplementation with leucine and fish oil rich in omega-3 fatty acids docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) has previously been shown to reduce cachexia-related outcomes in C26 tumour-bearing mice. To further explore associated processes and mechanisms we investigated changes in plasma Ca²⁺ levels, the involvement of parathyroid hormone related protein (PTHrP), and its possible interactions with cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2). Methods: CD2F1 mice were subcutaneously inoculated with C26 adenocarcinoma cells or sham treated and divided in: (1) controls, (2) tumour-bearing controls, and (3) tumour-bearing receiving experimental diets. After 20 days, body and organ masses and total plasma Ca²⁺ levels were determined. Furthermore, effects of DHA, EPA and leucine on production of PTHrP were studied in cultured C26 cells. Results: The combination of leucine and fish oil reduced tumour-associated hypercalcemia. Plasma Ca²⁺ levels negatively correlated with carcass mass and multiple organ masses. DHA was able to reduce PTHrP production by C26 cells in vitro. Results indicate that this effect occurred independently of COX-2 inhibition. Conclusion: Our results suggest that cancer-related hypercalcemia may be ameliorated by a nutritional intervention rich in leucine and fish oil. The effect of fish oil possibly relates to a DHA-induced reduction of PTHrP excretion by the tumour.

Immune and Inflammatory Cells in Thyroid Cancer Microenvironment

A hallmark of cancer is the ability of tumor cells to avoid immune destruction. Activated immune cells in tumor microenvironment (TME) secrete proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines which foster the proliferation of tumor cells. Specific antigens expressed by cancer cells are recognized by the main actors of immune response that are involved in their elimination (immunosurveillance). By the recruitment of immunosuppressive cells, decreasing the tumor immunogenicity, or through other immunosuppressive mechanisms, tumors can impair the host immune cells within the TME and escape their surveillance. Within the TME, cells of the innate (e.g., macrophages, mast cells, neutrophils) and the adaptive (e.g., lymphocytes) immune responses are interconnected with epithelial cancer cells, fibroblasts, and endothelial cells via cytokines, chemokines, and adipocytokines. The molecular pattern of cytokines and chemokines has a key role and could explain the involvement of the immune system in tumor initiation and progression. Thyroid cancer-related inflammation is an important target for diagnostic procedures and novel therapeutic strategies. Anticancer immunotherapy, especially immune checkpoint inhibitors, unleashes the immune system and activates cytotoxic lymphocytes to kill cancer cells. A better knowledge of the molecular and immunological characteristics of TME will allow novel and more effective immunotherapeutic strategies in advanced thyroid cancer.

Recent advances in understanding immune phenotypes of thyroid carcinomas: prognostication and emerging therapies

Tumors modulate the host immune cells within their microenvironment to avoid recognition and elimination by our immune system, a phenotype called cancer immune escape. Different mechanisms responsible for cancer immune escape that result either in decreased tumor immunogenicity or in increased tumor immunosuppressive activity have been identified. Recently, various immunotherapeutic approaches have been developed with the aim to revert tumor immune escape. The aims of this review are to explore the immunological aspects of thyroid cancer and to assess whether these features can be exploited in the prognosis and treatment of advanced forms of this disease. Therefore, we will describe the immune landscape and phenotypes of thyroid cancer, summarize studies investigating the expression of immunomodulatory molecules, and finally describe the preclinical and clinical trials investigating the utility of immunotherapies in the management of thyroid cancer.

The aim of this review is to explore the immunological aspects of thyroid cancer and to assess whether these features can be exploited in the prognosis and treatment of advanced forms of this disease. Therefore, we will describe the immune-landscape and phenotypes of thyroid cancer, we will summarize studies investigating the expression of immunomodulatory molecules, and we will finally describe the preclinical and clinical trials investigating the utility of immunotherapies in the management of thyroid cancer.

Peptide Hp(2-20) accelerates healing of TNBS-induced colitis in the rat

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Hp(2-20), a Helicobacter pylori-derived peptide interacting with N-formyl peptide receptors (FPRs), accelerates the healing of gastric injury in rats. Whether Hp(2-20) affects the recovery of inflamed colonic mucosa is unknown. We evaluated whether Hp(2-20) accelerated the healing of 2,4,6-trinitrobenzenesulfonic acid (TNBS)-induced colitis and explored the mechanism(s) underlying any such effect.

METHODS

Fifteen rats underwent rectal administration of Hp(2-20) 250-500 µg/kg/day, or of its control peptide Hp1 for 10 days, following induction of colitis with TNBS. Macroscopic and histological damage was quantified using predetermined injury scores. FPR1, COX-2, TNF-α, TGF-β, HB-EGF and tissue transglutaminase (t-TG) messenger RNA (mRNA) expression in colonic tissue was determined by quantitative polymerase chain reaction; FPR1, TNF-α and COX-2 protein levels by Western blotting.

RESULTS

(1) Hp(2-20) accelerated healing of TNBS-induced colitis compared to controls consistently with the expression of FPRs in colonic mucosa; (2) TNBS upregulated mRNA mucosal expression of COX-2, TNF-α, TGF-β, HB-EGF and t-TG and (3) this, with the exception of HB-EGF, was significantly counteracted by Hp(2-20).

CONCLUSIONS

Hp(2-20), an FPR agonist, accelerates the healing of TNBS-induced colitis in the rat. This effect is associated with a significant reduction in colonic tissue levels of COX-2, TGF-β, TNF-α and t-TG. We postulate that FPR-dependent pathways may be involved in the repair of inflamed colonic mucosa.

ABO blood type and risk of hepatocellular carcinoma: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

ABO blood type is an invariant factor. There is a link between ABO blood type and some malignancies, such as gastric, pancreatic, and skin cancer. The role of ABO blood type in the pathogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains controversial. We performed a meta-analysis to explore the relationship between ABO blood type and risk of HCC.

METHODS

Literature search was conducted among the PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated.

RESULTS

Seven papers were included. They included 92,847 healthy subjects, 5,463 patients with hepatitis, 294 cirrhotic patients, and 3,322 HCC patients. The proportion of blood type O was significantly lower in HCC patients than healthy subjects (OR = 0.76, 95%CI = 0.66-0.87, P < 0.0001) without any significant heterogeneity (P = 0.55, I² = 0%). The proportions of blood types A, B, and AB were not significantly different between HCC patients and healthy subjects. The proportion of ABO blood type was not significantly different between patients with HCC and those with hepatitis or cirrhosis.

CONCLUSION

HCC patients might have a lower proportion of blood type O than healthy subjects. Among the patients with chronic liver diseases, ABO blood type might not be associated with the risk of HCC.

Anti-cancer and analgesic effects of resolvin D2 in oral squamous cell carcinoma

Oral cancer is often painful and lethal. Oral cancer progression and pain may result from shared pathways that involve unresolved inflammation and elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Resolvin D-series (RvDs) are endogenous lipid mediators derived from omega-3 fatty acids that exhibit pro-resolution and anti-inflammatory actions. These mediators have recently emerged as a novel class of therapeutics for diseases that involve inflammation; the specific roles of RvDs in oral cancer and associated pain are not defined. The present study investigated the potential of RvDs (RvD1 and RvD2) to treat oral cancer and alleviate oral cancer pain. We found down-regulated mRNA levels of GPR18 and GPR32 (which code for receptors RvD1 and RvD2) in oral cancer cells. Both RvD1 and RvD2 inhibited oral cancer proliferation in vitro. Using two validated mouse oral squamous cell carcinoma xenograft models, we found that RvD2, the more potent anti-inflammatory lipid mediator, significantly reduced tumor size. The mechanism of this action might involve suppression of IL-6, C-X-C motif chemokine 10 (CXCL10), and reduction of tumor necrosis. RvD2 generated short-lasting analgesia in xenograft cancer models, which coincided with decreased neutrophil infiltration and myeloperoxidase activity. Using a cancer supernatant model, we demonstrated that RvD2 reduced cancer-derived cytokines/chemokines (TNF-α, IL-6, CXCL10, and MCP-1), cancer mediator-induced CD11b⁺Ly6G^- myeloid cells, and nociception. We infer from our results that manipulation of the endogenous pro-resolution pathway might provide a novel approach to improve oral cancer and cancer pain treatment.