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Chen C, Demirkhanyan L, Gondi CS. The Multifaceted Role of miR-21 in Pancreatic Cancers. Cells 2024; 13:948. [PMID: 38891080 PMCID: PMC11172074 DOI: 10.3390/cells13110948] [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: 05/07/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
With the lack of specific signs and symptoms, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is often diagnosed at late metastatic stages, resulting in poor survival outcomes. Among various biomarkers, microRNA-21 (miR-21), a small non-coding RNA, is highly expressed in PDAC. By inhibiting regulatory proteins at the 3' untranslated regions (UTR), miR-21 holds significant roles in PDAC cell proliferation, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, angiogenesis, as well as cancer invasion, metastasis, and resistance therapy. We conducted a systematic search across major databases for articles on miR-21 and pancreatic cancer mainly published within the last decade, focusing on their diagnostic, prognostic, therapeutic, and biological roles. This rigorous approach ensured a comprehensive review of miR-21's multifaceted role in pancreatic cancers. In this review, we explore the current understandings and future directions regarding the regulation, diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic potential of targeting miR-21 in PDAC. This exhaustive review discusses the involvement of miR-21 in proliferation, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), apoptosis modulation, angiogenesis, and its role in therapy resistance. Also discussed in the review is the interplay between various molecular pathways that contribute to tumor progression, with specific reference to pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clare Chen
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Illinois College of Medicine Peoria, Peoria, IL 61605, USA
| | - Lusine Demirkhanyan
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Illinois College of Medicine Peoria, Peoria, IL 61605, USA
- Departments of Internal Medicine and Surgery, University of Illinois College of Medicine Peoria, Peoria, IL 61605, USA
| | - Christopher S. Gondi
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Illinois College of Medicine Peoria, Peoria, IL 61605, USA
- Departments of Internal Medicine and Surgery, University of Illinois College of Medicine Peoria, Peoria, IL 61605, USA
- Departments of Internal Medicine, Surgery, and Health Science Education and Pathology, University of Illinois College of Medicine Peoria, Peoria, IL 61605, USA
- Health Care Engineering Systems Center, The Grainger College of Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
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2
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Wang B, Deng J, Donati V, Merali N, Frampton AE, Giovannetti E, Deng D. The Roles and Interactions of Porphyromonas gingivalis and Fusobacterium nucleatum in Oral and Gastrointestinal Carcinogenesis: A Narrative Review. Pathogens 2024; 13:93. [PMID: 38276166 PMCID: PMC10820765 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens13010093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Epidemiological studies have spotlighted the intricate relationship between individual oral bacteria and tumor occurrence. Porphyromonas gingivalis and Fusobacteria nucleatum, which are known periodontal pathogens, have emerged as extensively studied participants with potential pathogenic abilities in carcinogenesis. However, the complex dynamics arising from interactions between these two pathogens were less addressed. This narrative review aims to summarize the current knowledge on the prevalence and mechanism implications of P. gingivalis and F. nucleatum in the carcinogenesis of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), colorectal cancer (CRC), and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). In particular, it explores the clinical and experimental evidence on the interplay between P. gingivalis and F. nucleatum in affecting oral and gastrointestinal carcinogenesis. P. gingivalis and F. nucleatum, which are recognized as keystone or bridging bacteria, were identified in multiple clinical studies simultaneously. The prevalence of both bacteria species correlated with cancer development progression, emphasizing the potential impact of the collaboration. Regrettably, there was insufficient experimental evidence to demonstrate the synergistic function. We further propose a hypothesis to elucidate the underlying mechanisms, offering a promising avenue for future research in this dynamic and evolving field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (B.W.); (J.D.); (V.D.); (E.G.)
| | - Juan Deng
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (B.W.); (J.D.); (V.D.); (E.G.)
| | - Valentina Donati
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (B.W.); (J.D.); (V.D.); (E.G.)
- Unit of Pathological Anatomy 2, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, 56100 Pisa, Italy
| | - Nabeel Merali
- Minimal Access Therapy Training Unit (MATTU), Royal Surrey County Hospital, NHS Foundation Trust, Egerton Road, Guildford GU2 7XX, UK; (N.M.); (A.E.F.)
- Department of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary (HPB) Surgery, Royal Surrey County Hospital, NHS Foundation Trust, Egerton Road, Guildford GU2 7XX, UK
- Section of Oncology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Health Medical Science, University of Surrey, Guilford GU2 7WG, UK
| | - Adam E. Frampton
- Minimal Access Therapy Training Unit (MATTU), Royal Surrey County Hospital, NHS Foundation Trust, Egerton Road, Guildford GU2 7XX, UK; (N.M.); (A.E.F.)
- Department of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary (HPB) Surgery, Royal Surrey County Hospital, NHS Foundation Trust, Egerton Road, Guildford GU2 7XX, UK
- Section of Oncology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Health Medical Science, University of Surrey, Guilford GU2 7WG, UK
| | - Elisa Giovannetti
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Vrije Universiteit, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (B.W.); (J.D.); (V.D.); (E.G.)
- Fondazione Pisana per la Scienza, 56100 Pisa, Italy
| | - Dongmei Deng
- Department of Prevention Dentistry, Academic Center for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), University of Amsterdam and Vrije Universitreit Amsterdam, 1081 LA Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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3
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Vahabi M, Comandatore A, Centra C, Blandino G, Morelli L, Giovannetti E. Thinking small to win big? A critical review on the potential application of extracellular vesicles for biomarker discovery and new therapeutic approaches in pancreatic cancer. Semin Cancer Biol 2023; 97:50-67. [PMID: 37956937 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2023.11.003] [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: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an extremely deadly form of cancer, with limited progress in 5-year survival rates despite significant research efforts. The main challenges in treating PDAC include difficulties in early detection, and resistance to current therapeutic approaches due to aggressive molecular and microenvironment features. These challenges emphasize the importance of identifying clinically validated biomarkers for early detection and clinical management. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), particularly exosomes, have emerged as crucial mediators of intercellular communication by transporting molecular cargo. Recent research has unveiled their role in initiation, metastasis, and chemoresistance of PDAC. Consequently, utilizing EVs in liquid biopsies holds promise for the identification of biomarkers for early detection, prognosis, and monitoring of drug efficacy. However, numerous limitations, including challenges in isolation and characterization of homogeneous EVs populations, as well as the absence of standardized protocols, can affect the reliability of studies involving EVs as biomarkers, underscoring the necessity for a prudent approach. EVs have also garnered considerable attention as a promising drug delivery system and novel therapy for tumors. The loading of biomolecules or chemical drugs into exosomes and their subsequent delivery to target cells can effectively impede tumor progression. Nevertheless, there are obstacles that must be overcome to ensure the accuracy and efficacy of therapies relying on EVs for the treatment of tumors. In this review, we examine both recent advancements and remaining obstacles, exploring the potential of utilizing EVs in biomarker discovery as well as for the development of drug delivery vehicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahrou Vahabi
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Annalisa Comandatore
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands; General Surgery Unit, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Chiara Centra
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Giovanni Blandino
- IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Oncogenomic and Epigenetic Laboratory, Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Morelli
- General Surgery Unit, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Elisa Giovannetti
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Fondazione Pisana per la Scienza, Pisa, Italy.
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Shichi Y, Gomi F, Hasegawa Y, Nonaka K, Shinji S, Takahashi K, Ishiwata T. Artificial intelligence-based analysis of time-lapse images of sphere formation and process of plate adhesion and spread of pancreatic cancer cells. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1290753. [PMID: 38046666 PMCID: PMC10690954 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1290753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Most pancreatic cancers are pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas (PDAC). Spherical morphology formed in three-dimensional (3D) cultures and the effects of anticancer drugs differ between epithelial and mesenchymal PDAC cell lines. In the human pancreas, cancer cells form 3D tumors, migrate to adjacent tissues, and metastasize to other organs. However, no effective methods exist to examine the ability of the tumor mass to migrate to surrounding tissues in vitro. We used spheres formed in 3D culture to investigate whether the migratory ability of tumors of PDAC cell lines, including epithelial and mesenchymal cell lines, varies. Methods: Sphere formation and adhesion and spread on culture plates were examined by artificial intelligence-based analysis of time-lapse imaging using five epithelial and three mesenchymal PDAC cell lines. Fused and non-fused areas of the sphere surface during sphere formation on low-attachment plates, the adhesion area to normal culture plates, and the sphere area maintaining its original form during adhesion to plates were measured. Results: Immunocytochemical staining confirmed that E-cadherin was highly expressed in epithelial PDAC spheres, as was vimentin in mesenchymal PDAC spheres, in 2D culture. When forming spheres using low-attachment plates, most epithelial PDAC cell lines initially showed decreased sphere area, and then the covering cells fused to form a smooth surface on the sphere. Mesenchymal PANC-1 and MIA PaCa-2 cells showed little reduction in sphere area and few areas of sphere surface fusion. When formed PDAC spheres were seeded onto normal culture plates, spheres of epithelial PK-8 cells-which have the highest E-cadherin expression, form numerous cysts, and have smooth sphere surfaces-did not adhere to normal plates even after 60 h, and epithelial PK45-P and T3M-4 spheres hardly adhered. Conversely, the area of adhesion and spread of mesenchymal PANC-1 and KP4 cell spheres on normal plates markedly increased from early on, forming large areas of attachment to plates. Conclusion: Seeding spheres formed in 3D culture onto culture plates can clarify differences in tumor migration potential to surrounding areas. The masses formed by each PDAC cell line varied in migratory ability, with mesenchymal PDAC masses being more migratory than epithelial PDAC masses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuuki Shichi
- Division of Aging and Carcinogenesis, Research Team for Geriatric Pathology, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Fujiya Gomi
- Division of Aging and Carcinogenesis, Research Team for Geriatric Pathology, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yasuko Hasegawa
- Division of Aging and Carcinogenesis, Research Team for Geriatric Pathology, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Keisuke Nonaka
- Division of Aging and Carcinogenesis, Research Team for Geriatric Pathology, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Seiichi Shinji
- Division of Aging and Carcinogenesis, Research Team for Geriatric Pathology, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kimimasa Takahashi
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Toshiyuki Ishiwata
- Division of Aging and Carcinogenesis, Research Team for Geriatric Pathology, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute for Geriatrics and Gerontology, Tokyo, Japan
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Chen X, Yuan Q, Guan H, Shi X, Sun J, Wu Z, Ren J, Xia S, Shang D. Identification and characterization of interferon-γ signaling-based personalized heterogeneity and therapeutic strategies in patients with pancreatic cancer. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1227606. [PMID: 37941546 PMCID: PMC10628740 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1227606] [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: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Interferon-γ (IFN-γ) is a key cytokine with diverse biological functions, including antiviral defense, antitumor activity, immune regulation, and modulation of cellular processes. Nonetheless, its role in pancreatic cancer (PC) therapy remains debated. Therefore, it is worthwhile to explore the role of Interferon-γ related genes (IFN-γGs) in the progression of PC development. Methodology Transcriptomic data from 930 PC were sourced from TCGA, GEO, ICGC, and ArrayExpress, and 93 IFN-γGs were obtained from the MSigDB. We researched the characteristics of IFN-γGs in pan-cancer. Subsequently, the cohort of 930 PC was stratified into two distinct subgroups using the NMF algorithm. We then examined disparities in the activation of cancer-associated pathways within these subpopulations through GSVA analysis. We scrutinized immune infiltration in both subsets and probed classical molecular target drug sensitivity variations. Finally, we devised and validated a novel IFN-γ related prediction model using LASSO and Cox regression analyses. Furthermore, we conducted RT-qPCR and immunohistochemistry assays to validate the expression of seven target genes included in the prediction model. Results We demonstrated the CNV, SNV, methylation, expression levels, and prognostic characteristics of IFN-γGs in pan-cancers. Notably, Cluster 2 demonstrated superior prognostic outcomes and heightened immune cell infiltration compared to Clusters 1. We also assessed the IC50 values of classical molecular targeted drugs to establish links between IFN-γGs expression levels and drug responsiveness. Additionally, by applying our prediction model, we segregated PC patients into high-risk and low-risk groups, identifying potential benefits of cisplatin, docetaxel, pazopanib, midostaurin, epothilone.B, thapsigargin, bryostatin.1, and AICAR for high-risk PC patients, and metformin, roscovitine, salubrinal, and cyclopamine for those in the low-risk group. The expression levels of these model genes were further verified through HPA website data and qRT-PCR assays in PC cell lines and tissues. Conclusion This study unveils IFN-γGs related molecular subsets in pancreatic cancer for the first time, shedding light on the pivotal role of IFN-γGs in the progression of PC. Furthermore, we establish an IFN-γGs related prognostic model for predicting the survival of PC, offering a theoretical foundation for exploring the precise mechanisms of IFN-γGs in PC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu Chen
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
- Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Qihang Yuan
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Hewen Guan
- Department of Dermatology, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Xueying Shi
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
- Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Jiaao Sun
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Zhiqiang Wu
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Jie Ren
- Department of Oncology, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Shilin Xia
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
- Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Dong Shang
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
- Laboratory of Integrative Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
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Rana M, Kansal RG, Bisunke B, Fang J, Shibata D, Bajwa A, Yang J, Glazer ES. Bromo- and Extra-Terminal Domain Inhibitors Induce Mitochondrial Stress in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma. Mol Cancer Ther 2023; 22:936-946. [PMID: 37294884 PMCID: PMC10527726 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-23-0149] [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: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Identifying novel, unique, and personalized molecular targets for patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains the greatest challenge in altering the biology of fatal tumors. Bromo- and extra-terminal domain (BET) proteins are activated in a noncanonical fashion by TGFβ, a ubiquitous cytokine in the PDAC tumor microenvironment (TME). We hypothesized that BET inhibitors (BETi) represent a new class of drugs that attack PDAC tumors via a novel mechanism. Using a combination of patient and syngeneic murine models, we investigated the effects of the BETi drug BMS-986158 on cellular proliferation, organoid growth, cell-cycle progression, and mitochondrial metabolic disruption. These were investigated independently and in combination with standard cytotoxic chemotherapy (gemcitabine + paclitaxel [GemPTX]). BMS-986158 reduced cell viability and proliferation across multiple PDAC cell lines in a dose-dependent manner, even more so in combination with cytotoxic chemotherapy (P < 0.0001). We found that BMS-986158 reduced both human and murine PDAC organoid growth (P < 0.001), with associated perturbations in the cell cycle leading to cell-cycle arrest. BMS-986158 disrupts normal cancer-dependent mitochondrial function, leading to aberrant mitochondrial metabolism and stress via dysfunctional cellular respiration, proton leakage, and ATP production. We demonstrated mechanistic and functional data that BETi induces metabolic mitochondrial dysfunction, abrogating PDAC progression and proliferation, alone and in combination with systemic cytotoxic chemotherapies. This novel approach improves the therapeutic window in patients with PDAC and offers another treatment approach distinct from cytotoxic chemotherapy that targets cancer cell bioenergetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manjul Rana
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN
| | - Rita G. Kansal
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN
| | - Bijay Bisunke
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN
| | - Jie Fang
- Department of Surgery, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
| | - David Shibata
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN
- Center for Cancer Research, College of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN
| | - Amandeep Bajwa
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN
- Transplant Research Institute, James D. Eason Transplant Institute, College of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN
- Department of Genetics, Genomics, and Informatics, College of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Biochemistry, College of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN
| | - Jun Yang
- Department of Surgery, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
- Transplant Research Institute, James D. Eason Transplant Institute, College of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN
- Department of Genetics, Genomics, and Informatics, College of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
- St. Jude Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN
| | - Evan S. Glazer
- Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN
- Center for Cancer Research, College of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN
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Carbone D, Pecoraro C, Panzeca G, Xu G, Roeten MSF, Cascioferro S, Giovannetti E, Diana P, Parrino B. 1,3,4-Oxadiazole and 1,3,4-Thiadiazole Nortopsentin Derivatives against Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: Synthesis, Cytotoxic Activity, and Inhibition of CDK1. Mar Drugs 2023; 21:412. [PMID: 37504943 PMCID: PMC10381170 DOI: 10.3390/md21070412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
A new series of nortopsentin analogs, in which the central imidazole ring of the natural lead was replaced by a 1,3,4-oxadiazole or 1,3,4-thiadiazole moiety, was efficiently synthesized. The antiproliferative activity of all synthesized derivatives was evaluated against five pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) cell lines, a primary culture and a gemcitabine-resistant variant. The five more potent compounds elicited EC50 values in the submicromolar-micromolar range, associated with a significant reduction in cell migration. Moreover, flow cytometric analysis after propidium iodide staining revealed an increase in the G2-M and a decrease in G1-phase, indicating cell cycle arrest, while a specific ELISA demonstrated the inhibition of CDK1 activity, a crucial regulator of cell cycle progression and cancer cell proliferation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Carbone
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Camilla Pecoraro
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Giovanna Panzeca
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Geng Xu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center (VUmc), De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Margot S F Roeten
- Department of Hematology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center (VUmc), De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Stella Cascioferro
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Elisa Giovannetti
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center (VUmc), De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Pharmacology Laboratory, Fondazione Pisana per la Scienza, Via Ferruccio Giovannini 13, 56017 Pisa, Italy
| | - Patrizia Diana
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
| | - Barbara Parrino
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy
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Fang X, Lan H, Jin K, Qian J. Pancreatic cancer and exosomes: role in progression, diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1149551. [PMID: 37287924 PMCID: PMC10242099 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1149551] [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: 01/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) is one of the most dangerous diseases that threaten human life, and investigating the details affecting its progression or regression is particularly important. Exosomes are one of the derivatives produced from different cells, including tumor cells and other cells such as Tregs, M2 macrophages, and MDSCs, and can help tumor growth. These exosomes perform their actions by affecting the cells in the tumor microenvironment, such as pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) that produce extracellular matrix (ECM) components and immune cells that are responsible for killing tumor cells. It has also been shown that pancreatic cancer cell (PCC)-derived exosomes at different stages carry molecules. Checking the presence of these molecules in the blood and other body fluids can help us in the early stage diagnosis and monitoring of PC. However, immune system cell-derived exosomes (IEXs) and mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-derived exosomes can contribute to PC treatment. Immune cells produce exosomes as part of the mechanisms involved in the immune surveillance and tumor cell-killing phenomenon. Exosomes can be modified in such a way that their antitumor properties are enhanced. One of these methods is drug loading in exosomes, which can significantly increase the effectiveness of chemotherapy drugs. In general, exosomes form a complex intercellular communication network that plays a role in developing, progressing, diagnosing, monitoring, and treating pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingliang Fang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Shaoxing University, Shaoxing, Zhejiang, China
| | - Huanrong Lan
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Hangzhou Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Ketao Jin
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Affiliated Jinhua Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Jinhua, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jun Qian
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Xinchang People’s Hospital, Affiliated Xinchang Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Xinchang, Zhejiang, China
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9
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Jiang Y, Donati V, Peters GJ, Giovannetti E, Deng DM. Fungal mycobiome-mediated immune response: a non-negligible promoter in pancreatic oncogenesis and chemoresistance. CANCER DRUG RESISTANCE (ALHAMBRA, CALIF.) 2023; 6:284-290. [PMID: 37457135 PMCID: PMC10344719 DOI: 10.20517/cdr.2023.06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the most lethal cancers in humans due to late diagnosis and poor response to treatments. The tumor microenvironment (TME) of PDAC is characterized by a distinctive, suppressive immune profile, which inhibits the protective functions of anti-tumor immunity and thereby contributes to PDAC progression. Recently, the study of Alam et al. discovered for the first time that the intratumoral fungal mycobiome could contribute to the recruitment and activation of type 2 immune cells in the TME of PDAC via enhancing the secretion of a chemoattractant, interleukin (IL-) 33. In this article, we reviewed the important findings of this study. Together with our findings, we synthetically discussed the role of the fungal mycobiome in orchestrating the immune response and thereby modulating tumor progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaling Jiang
- Department of Preventive Dentistry, Academic Center for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), University of Amsterdam and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam 1081 LA, Netherlands
| | - Valentina Donati
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location VUMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam 1081 HV, Netherlands
- Unit of Pathological Anatomy 2, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, Pisa 56100, Italy
| | - Godefridus J. Peters
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location VUMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam 1081 HV, Netherlands
- Department of Biochemistry, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk 80-210, Poland
| | - Elisa Giovannetti
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location VUMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam 1081 HV, Netherlands
- Fondazione Pisana per la Scienza ONLUS, San Giuliano Terme, Pisa 56017, Italy
| | - Dong Mei Deng
- Department of Preventive Dentistry, Academic Center for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), University of Amsterdam and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam 1081 LA, Netherlands
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Desai O, Wang R. HER3- A key survival pathway and an emerging therapeutic target in metastatic colorectal cancer and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Oncotarget 2023; 14:439-443. [PMID: 37163206 PMCID: PMC10171365 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.28421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) are highly metastatic cancers with poor survival rates. The tumor microenvironment has been shown to play a critical role in cancer progression and response to therapies. Endothelial cells (ECs) are a key component of the tumor microenvironment and promote cancer cell survival by secreting soluble factors that activate cancer-promoting signaling pathways. Studies from us and others identified HER3 as a key mediator of liver EC-induced chemoresistance and cancer cell growth in metastatic CRC and PDAC. In this article, we discuss that HER3-targeted therapies may be effective in treating patients with HER3-expressing CRC and PDAC, and highlight the importance of applying HER3 expression as a predictive biomarker for patient response to HER3-targeted therapies. We also discuss the challenges encountered in past clinical trials of HER3-targeted therapies, including the role of NRG1 gene fusions, alternative HER3 activation mechanisms, and adaptive resistance mechanisms. Finally, we conclude by suggesting the future directions of HER3-targeted therapies, including novel approaches to overcome chemoresistance and promote cancer cell death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omkar Desai
- Department of Surgery, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Rui Wang
- Department of Surgery, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
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11
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Cui Y, Yuan Q, Chen J, Jiang J, Guan H, Zhu R, Li N, Liu W, Wang C. Determination and characterization of molecular heterogeneity and precision medicine strategies of patients with pancreatic cancer and pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor based on oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction-related genes. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1127441. [PMID: 37223030 PMCID: PMC10200886 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1127441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Mitochondria are significant both for cellular energy production and reactive oxygen/nitrogen species formation. However, the significant functions of mitochondrial genes related to oxidative stress (MTGs-OS) in pancreatic cancer (PC) and pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor (PNET) are yet to be investigated integrally. Therefore, in pan-cancer, particularly PC and PNET, a thorough assessment of the MTGs-OS is required. Methods Expression patterns, prognostic significance, mutation data, methylation rates, and pathway-regulation interactions were studied to comprehensively elucidate the involvement of MTGs-OS in pan-cancer. Next, we separated the 930 PC and 226 PNET patients into 3 clusters according to MTGs-OS expression and MTGs-OS scores. LASSO regression analysis was utilized to construct a novel prognostic model for PC. qRT-PCR(Quantitative real-time PCR) experiments were performed to verify the expression levels of model genes. Results The subtype associated with the poorest prognosis and lowerest MTGs-OS scores was Cluster 3, which could demonstrate the vital function of MTGs-OS for the pathophysiological processes of PC. The three clusters displayed distinct variations in the expression of conventional cancer-associated genes and the infiltration of immune cells. Similar molecular heterogeneity was observed in patients with PNET. PNET patients with S1 and S2 subtypes also showed distinct MTGs-OS scores. Given the important function of MTGs-OS in PC, a novel and robust MTGs-related prognostic signature (MTGs-RPS) was established and identified for predicting clinical outcomes for PC accurately. Patients with PC were separated into the training, internal validation, and external validation datasets at random; the expression profile of MTGs-OS was used to classify patients into high-risk (poor prognosis) or low-risk (good prognosis) categories. The variations in the tumor immune microenvironment may account for the better prognoses observed in high-risk individuals relative to low-risk ones. Conclusions Overall, our study for the first time identified and validated eleven MTGs-OS remarkably linked to the progression of PC and PNET, and elaborated the biological function and prognostic value of MTGs-OS. Most importantly, we established a novel protocol for the prognostic evaluation and individualized treatment for patients with PC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yougang Cui
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital of Dalian University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Qihang Yuan
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Junhong Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery II, General Surgery Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jian Jiang
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Hewen Guan
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Ruiping Zhu
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital of Dalian University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Ning Li
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
- Department of General Surgery, Wafangdian Central Hospital, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Wenzhi Liu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital of Dalian University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
| | - Changmiao Wang
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning, China
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Bhoopathi P, Mannangatti P, Das SK, Fisher PB, Emdad L. Chemoresistance in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma: Overcoming resistance to therapy. Adv Cancer Res 2023; 159:285-341. [PMID: 37268399 DOI: 10.1016/bs.acr.2023.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), a prominent cause of cancer deaths worldwide, is a highly aggressive cancer most frequently detected at an advanced stage that limits treatment options to systemic chemotherapy, which has provided only marginal positive clinical outcomes. More than 90% of patients with PDAC die within a year of being diagnosed. PDAC is increasing at a rate of 0.5-1.0% per year, and it is expected to be the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality by 2030. The resistance of tumor cells to chemotherapeutic drugs, which can be innate or acquired, is the primary factor contributing to the ineffectiveness of cancer treatments. Although many PDAC patients initially responds to standard of care (SOC) drugs they soon develop resistance caused partly by the substantial cellular heterogeneity seen in PDAC tissue and the tumor microenvironment (TME), which are considered key factors contributing to resistance to therapy. A deeper understanding of molecular mechanisms involved in PDAC progression and metastasis development, and the interplay of the TME in all these processes is essential to better comprehend the etiology and pathobiology of chemoresistance observed in PDAC. Recent research has recognized new therapeutic targets ushering in the development of innovative combinatorial therapies as well as enhancing our comprehension of several different cell death pathways. These approaches facilitate the lowering of the therapeutic threshold; however, the possibility of subsequent resistance development still remains a key issue and concern. Discoveries, that can target PDAC resistance, either alone or in combination, have the potential to serve as the foundation for future treatments that are effective without posing undue health risks. In this chapter, we discuss potential causes of PDAC chemoresistance and approaches for combating chemoresistance by targeting different pathways and different cellular functions associated with and mediating resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Praveen Bhoopathi
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States; VCU Institute of Molecular Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Padmanabhan Mannangatti
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States; VCU Institute of Molecular Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Swadesh K Das
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States; VCU Institute of Molecular Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States; VCU Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Paul B Fisher
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States; VCU Institute of Molecular Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States; VCU Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States.
| | - Luni Emdad
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States; VCU Institute of Molecular Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States; VCU Massey Cancer Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, VA, United States.
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13
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Liu T, Chen J, Liu AA, Chen L, Liang X, Peng JF, Zheng MH, Li JD, Cao YB, Shao CH. Identifying Liver Metastasis-Related Genes Through a Coexpression Network to Construct a 5-Gene Model for Predicting Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma Patient Prognosis. Pancreas 2023; 52:e151-e162. [PMID: 37523607 DOI: 10.1097/mpa.0000000000002229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to develop a liver metastasis-related gene prognostic index (LMPI) for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma prognosis and therapy. METHODS The Cancer Genome Atlas data set was used to identify liver metastasis-related hub genes via weighted gene coexpression network analysis. The core genes were identified to construct an LMPI by using the Cox regression method. An immune cell abundance identifier was applied to determine the immune cell abundance. RESULTS A total of 78 hub liver metastasis-related genes in the black module were significantly enriched in complement and coagulation cascades, fat digestion and absorption, and the PPAR signaling pathway. Then, an LMPI was constructed on the basis of the 5 prognostic genes (MOGAT3, ASGR1, TRPM8, SGSM1, and LOC101927851). Patients with higher LMPI scores had poor overall survival, more co-occurring or mutually exclusive pairs of driver gene mutations, and less benefit from immunotherapy than patients with lower LMPI scores. In addition, a high correlation was also found between LMPI scores and immune infiltration, such as CD4 naive, CD8 T, cytotoxic T, T helper 2, follicular helper T, and natural killer cells. CONCLUSIONS The core genes of the LMPI developed may be independent factors for predicting prognosis, immune characteristics, and immunotherapy efficacy in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - An-An Liu
- Department of Pancreatic-biliary Surgery, Changzheng Hospital, Navy Medical University, Shanghai
| | - Long Chen
- Department of Pancreatic-biliary Surgery, Changzheng Hospital, Navy Medical University, Shanghai
| | - Xing Liang
- Department of Pancreatic-biliary Surgery, Changzheng Hospital, Navy Medical University, Shanghai
| | - Jun-Feng Peng
- Department of Pancreatic-biliary Surgery, Changzheng Hospital, Navy Medical University, Shanghai
| | - Ming-Hui Zheng
- Department of Pancreatic-biliary Surgery, Changzheng Hospital, Navy Medical University, Shanghai
| | - Ju-Dong Li
- Department of Pancreatic-biliary Surgery, Changzheng Hospital, Navy Medical University, Shanghai
| | | | - Cheng-Hao Shao
- Department of Pancreatic-biliary Surgery, Changzheng Hospital, Navy Medical University, Shanghai
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14
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Zhang L, Jin R, Yang X, Ying D. A population-based study of synchronous distant metastases and prognosis in patients with PDAC at initial diagnosis. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1087700. [PMID: 36776324 PMCID: PMC9909560 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1087700] [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: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Cancer of the pancreas is a life-threatening condition and has a high distant metastasis (DM) rate of over 50% at diagnosis. Therefore, this study aimed to determine whether patterns of distant metastases correlated with prognosis in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) with metastatic spread, and build a novel nomogram capable of predicting the 6, 12, 18-month survival rate with high accuracy. Methods We analyzed data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database for cases of PDAC with DM. Kaplan-Meier analysis, log-rank tests and Cox-regression proportional hazards model were used to assess the impact of site and number of DM on the cancer-specific survival (CSS) and over survival (OS). A total of 2709 patients with DM were randomly assigned to the training group and validation group in a 7:3 ratio. A nomogram was constructed by the dependent risk factors which were determined by multivariate Cox-regression analysis. An assessment of the discrimination and ability of the prediction model was made by measuring AUC, C-index, calibration curve and decision curve analysis (DCA). In addition, we collected 98 patients with distant metastases at the time of initial diagnosis from Ningbo University Affiliated LiHuili Hospital to verify the efficacy of the prediction model. Results There was a highest incidence of liver metastases from pancreatic cancer (2387,74.36%), followed by lung (625,19.47%), bone (190,5.92%), and brain (8,0.25%). The prognosis of liver metastases differed from that of lung metastases, and the presence of multiple organ metastases was associated with poorer prognosis. According to univariate and multivariate Cox-regression analyses, seven factors (i.e., diagnosis age, tumor location, grade of tumor differentiation, T-stage, receipt of surgery, receipt of chemotherapy status, presence of multiple organ metastases) were included in our nomogram model. In internal and external validation, the ROC curves, C-index, calibration curves and DCA were calculated, which confirmed that this nomogram can precisely predict prognosis of PDAC with DM. Conclusion Metastatic PDAC patients with liver metastases tended to have a worse prognosis than those with lung metastases. The number of DM had significant effect on the overall survival rate of metastatic PDAC. This study had a high prediction accuracy, which was helpful clinicians to analyze the prognosis of PDAC with DM and implement individualized diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leiming Zhang
- Department of Minimally Invasive Surgery, The Affiliated Lihuili Hospital, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China,School of Medicine, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Rong Jin
- Department of Minimally Invasive Surgery, The Affiliated Lihuili Hospital, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China,School of Medicine, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xuanang Yang
- School of Medicine, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Dongjian Ying
- Department of Minimally Invasive Surgery, The Affiliated Lihuili Hospital, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China,*Correspondence: Dongjian Ying,
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15
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Mortazavi M, Raufi E, Damghani T, Khoshneviszadeh M, Edraki N, Eskandari M, Giovannetti E, Peters GJ, Pirhadi S, Firuzi O. Discovery of anticancer agents with c-Met inhibitory potential by virtual and experimental screening of a chemical library. Eur J Pharmacol 2023; 938:175395. [PMID: 36410418 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2022.175395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2022] [Revised: 11/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
c-Met receptor tyrosine kinase has recently emerged as an important target with therapeutic implications in pancreatic cancer. In this study, we carried out a docking virtual screening on an in-house library of 441 synthesized compounds and selected the compounds with the best interactions with the c-Met protein to be subjected to experimental tests. Ten compounds belonging to 3 different classes of chemical structures were selected for this purpose and their antiproliferative effects were studied against 4 pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) cell lines including AsPC-1, Suit-2, Panc-1 and Mia-Paca-2 cells, primary PDAC cells and also c-Met amplified EBC-1 cell line by sulforhodamine-B assay. Apoptosis induction was examined by Hoechst 33258 staining and annexin V-FITC/propidium iodide flow cytometric assay. The best compound was also assayed in three-dimensional cultures of AsPC-1 cells and its c-Met inhibitory potential was studied by immunoblotting and a homogenous time resolved fluorescence (HTRF) assay. The compound with a phenanthrotriazine hydrazinyl scaffold bearing nitrophenyl pendant (PhTH) was the most active derivative, with IC50 values in the range of 5-8 μM. This compound exerted antiproliferative effect against AsPC-1 cells also in the presence of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF). PhTH induced apoptosis, dose-dependently inhibited spheroid growth, inhibited c-Met activity in cell-free HTRF assay and also inhibited the phosphorylation of c-Met and its downstream effector ERK1/2 in AsPC-1 cells. Molecular docking and dynamics simulation and MM-PBSA analysis confirmed close interactions of PhTH with c-Met kinase domain. Some of the tested compounds in this study seem to be potential c-Met inhibitors with promising activities against PDAC cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Motahareh Mortazavi
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Elaheh Raufi
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Tahereh Damghani
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mehdi Khoshneviszadeh
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Iran
| | - Najmeh Edraki
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Masoomeh Eskandari
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Elisa Giovannetti
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center (VUmc), Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Cancer Pharmacology Lab, AIRC Start Up Unit, Fondazione Pisana per La Scienza, Pisa, Italy
| | - Godefridus J Peters
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center (VUmc), Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Biochemistry, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Somayeh Pirhadi
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Omidreza Firuzi
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
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16
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Zhang M, Zhang L, Zhou M, Wang E, Meng B, Li Q, Wang X, Wang Y, Li Q. Anti‑silencing function 1B promotes the progression of pancreatic cancer by activating c‑Myc. Int J Oncol 2023; 62:8. [PMID: 36416310 PMCID: PMC9728557 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2022.5456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study aimed to explore the role of histone chaperone anti‑silencing function 1B (ASF1B) in pancreatic cancer and the underlying mechanism. The biological function of ASF1B was investigated in pancreatic cancer cell lines (PANC‑1 and SW1990) and a mouse xenograft model. Chromatin immunoprecipitation was used to detect the effect of ASF1B on the transcriptional activity of c‑Myc. ASF1B was highly expressed in pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD) samples from The Cancer Genome Atlas. ASF1B expression was positively associated with poor survival rates in patients with PAAD. Silencing of ASF1B in PANC‑1 and SW1990 cells inhibited cell proliferation, migration and invasion, and induced apoptosis. Mechanistically, ASF1B increased H3K56 acetylation (H3K56ac) in a CREB‑binding protein (CBP)‑dependent manner. ASF1B promoted H3K56ac at the c‑Myc promoter and increased c‑Myc expression. In PANC‑1 and SW1990 cells, the CBP inhibitor curcumin and the c‑Myc inhibitor 10058‑F4 reversed the promoting effects of ASF1B on cell proliferation, migration and invasion. In the mouse xenograft model, ASF1B silencing inhibited tumor growth, and was associated with low H3K56ac and c‑Myc expression. ASF1B promoted pancreatic cancer progression by activating c‑Myc via CBP‑mediated H3K56ac.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450008
| | - Luyang Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450008
| | - Minghe Zhou
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450008
| | - Enze Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450008
| | - Bo Meng
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450008
| | - Qingjun Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450008
| | - Xiaoqian Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450008
| | - Yunjian Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan 450008
| | - Qiong Li
- Key Laboratory for Medical Tissue Regeneration of Henan Province, Xinxiang Medical College, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, P.R. China
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Roberto M, Arrivi G, Di Civita MA, Barchiesi G, Pilozzi E, Marchetti P, Santini D, Mazzuca F, Tomao S. The role of CXCL12 axis in pancreatic cancer: New biomarkers and potential targets. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1154581. [PMID: 37035150 PMCID: PMC10076769 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1154581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Chemokines are small, secreted peptides involved in the mediation of the immune cell recruitment. Chemokines have been implicated in several diseases including autoimmune diseases, viral infections and also played a critical role in the genesis and development of several malignant tumors. CXCL12 is a homeostatic CXC chemokine involved in the process of proliferation, and tumor spread. Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the most aggressive tumors, that is still lacking effective therapies and with a dramatically poor prognosis. Method We conducted a scientific literature search on Pubmed and Google Scholar including retrospective, prospective studies and reviews focused on the current research elucidating the emerging role of CXCL12 and its receptors CXCR4 - CXCR7 in the pathogenesis of pancreatic cancer. Results Considering the mechanism of immunomodulation of the CXCL12-CXCR4-CXCR7 axis, as well as the potential interaction with the microenvironment in the PDAC, several combined therapeutic approaches have been studied and developed, to overcome the "cold" immunological setting of PDAC, like combining CXCL12 axis inhibitors with anti PD-1/PDL1 drugs. Conclusion Understanding the role of this chemokine's axis in disease initiation and progression may provide the basis for developing new potential biomarkers as well as therapeutic targets for related pancreatic cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michela Roberto
- Oncology Unit (UOC) Oncologia A, Department of Radiological, Oncological and Anathomo-patological Science, Policlinico Umberto I, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Arrivi
- Oncology Unit, Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant’ Andrea University Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Mattia Alberto Di Civita
- Oncology Unit (UOC) Oncologia A, Department of Radiological, Oncological and Anathomo-patological Science, Policlinico Umberto I, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- *Correspondence: Mattia Alberto Di Civita,
| | - Giacomo Barchiesi
- Oncology Unit (UOC) Oncologia A, Department of Radiological, Oncological and Anathomo-patological Science, Policlinico Umberto I, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Emanuela Pilozzi
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Anatomia Patologica Unit, Sant’ Andrea University Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Marchetti
- Scientific Direction, Istituto Dermopatico dell’Immacolata (IDI-IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Daniele Santini
- Oncology Unit (UOC) Oncologia A, Department of Radiological, Oncological and Anathomo-patological Science, Policlinico Umberto I, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Federica Mazzuca
- Oncology Unit, Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant’ Andrea University Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Silverio Tomao
- Oncology Unit (UOC) Oncologia A, Department of Radiological, Oncological and Anathomo-patological Science, Policlinico Umberto I, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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Yang H, Wang J, Huang G. Small extracellular vesicles in metabolic remodeling of tumor cells: Cargos and translational application. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1009952. [PMID: 36588730 PMCID: PMC9800502 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1009952] [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: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Warburg effect is characterized by excessive consumption of glucose by the tumor cells under both aerobic and hypoxic conditions. This metabolic reprogramming allows the tumor cells to adapt to the unique microenvironment and proliferate rapidly, and also promotes tumor metastasis and therapy resistance. Metabolic reprogramming of tumor cells is driven by the aberrant expression and activity of metabolic enzymes, which results in the accumulation of oncometabolites, and the hyperactivation of intracellular growth signals. Recent studies suggest that tumor-associated metabolic remodeling also depends on intercellular communication within the tumor microenvironment (TME). Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs), also known as exosomes, are smaller than 200 nm in diameter and are formed by the fusion of multivesicular bodies with the plasma membrane. The sEVs are instrumental in transporting cargoes such as proteins, nucleic acids or metabolites between the tumor, stromal and immune cells of the TME, and are thus involved in reprogramming the glucose metabolism of recipient cells. In this review, we have summarized the biogenesis and functions of sEVs and metabolic cargos, and the mechanisms through they drive the Warburg effect. Furthermore, the potential applications of targeting sEV-mediated metabolic pathways in tumor liquid biopsy, imaging diagnosis and drug development have also been discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Yang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Jiading District Central Hospital Affiliated Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai, China,*Correspondence: Gang Huang, ; Hao Yang,
| | - Jingyi Wang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Gang Huang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Imaging, Jiading District Central Hospital Affiliated Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai, China,Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China,*Correspondence: Gang Huang, ; Hao Yang,
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19
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Wei Y, Wang M, Liang M, Liu L, Mo S, Zhang H, Chen Y, Li N. Tumor‐suppressive miR‐323a inhibits pancreatic cancer cell proliferation and glycolysis through targeting HK‐2. Pathol Int 2022; 72:617-630. [DOI: 10.1111/pin.13289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yangnian Wei
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery Ruikang Hospital Affiliated to Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine Guangxi China
| | - Mingdong Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery the First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University Xiamen China
| | - Mingkun Liang
- Department of Scientific Research Ruikang Hospital Affiliated to Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine Nanning China
| | - Ling Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery Xiangya Hospital of Central South University Changsha China
| | - Shifa Mo
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery Ruikang Hospital Affiliated to Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine Guangxi China
| | - Hongchang Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery Ruikang Hospital Affiliated to Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine Guangxi China
| | - Yunhui Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery Ruikang Hospital Affiliated to Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine Guangxi China
| | - Nianfeng Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery Xiangya Hospital of Central South University Changsha China
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Hadi MM, Farrell S, Nesbitt H, Thomas K, Kubajewska I, Ng A, Masood H, Patel S, Sciscione F, Davidson B, Callan JF, MacRobert AJ, McHale AP, Nomikou N. Nanotechnology-augmented sonodynamic therapy and associated immune-mediated effects for the treatment of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2022:10.1007/s00432-022-04418-y. [PMID: 36319895 PMCID: PMC10349707 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-022-04418-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Sonodynamic therapy (SDT) is emerging as a cancer treatment alternative with significant advantages over conventional therapies, including its minimally invasive and site-specific nature, its radical antitumour efficacy with minimal side effects, and its capacity to raise an antitumour immune response. The study explores the efficacy of SDT in combination with nanotechnology against pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. METHODS A nanoparticulate formulation (HPNP) based on a cathepsin B-degradable glutamate-tyrosine co-polymer that carries hematoporphyrin was used in this study for the SDT-based treatment of PDAC. Cathepsin B levels in BxPC-3 and PANC-1 cells were correlated to cellular uptake of HPNP. The HPNP efficiency to induce a sonodynamic effect at varying ultrasound parameters, and at different oxygenation and pH conditions, was investigated. The biodistribution, tumour accumulation profile, and antitumour efficacy of HPNP in SDT were examined in immunocompetent mice carrying bilateral ectopic murine pancreatic tumours. The immune response profile of excised tumour tissues was also examined. RESULTS The HPNP formulation significantly improved cellular uptake of hematoporphyrin for both BxPC-3 and PANC-1 cells, while increase of cellular uptake was positively correlated in PANC-1 cells. There was a clear SDT-induced cytotoxicity at the ultrasound conditions tested, and the treatment impaired the capacity of both BxPC-3 and PANC-1 cells to form colonies. The overall acoustic energy and pulse length, rather than the power density, were key in eliciting the effects observed in vitro. The SDT treatment in combination with HPNP resulted in 21% and 27% reduction of the target and off-target tumour volumes, respectively, within 24 h. A single SDT treatment elicited an antitumour effect that was characterized by an SDT-induced decrease in immunosuppressive T cell phenotypes. CONCLUSION SDT has significant potential to serve as a monotherapy or adjunctive treatment for inoperable or borderline resectable PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marym Mohammad Hadi
- Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University College London, London, UK
| | - Sian Farrell
- Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Ulster University, Coleraine, UK
| | - Heather Nesbitt
- Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Ulster University, Coleraine, UK
| | - Keith Thomas
- Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Ulster University, Coleraine, UK
| | - Ilona Kubajewska
- Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University College London, London, UK
- Nanomerics Ltd, London, UK
| | - Alex Ng
- Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University College London, London, UK
| | - Hamzah Masood
- Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University College London, London, UK
| | - Shiv Patel
- Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University College London, London, UK
| | - Fabiola Sciscione
- Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University College London, London, UK
| | - Brian Davidson
- Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University College London, London, UK
| | - John F Callan
- Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Ulster University, Coleraine, UK
| | - Alexander J MacRobert
- Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University College London, London, UK
| | - Anthony P McHale
- Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Ulster University, Coleraine, UK
| | - Nikolitsa Nomikou
- Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University College London, London, UK.
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21
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Role of drug catabolism, modulation of oncogenic signaling and tumor microenvironment in microbe-mediated pancreatic cancer chemoresistance. Drug Resist Updat 2022; 64:100864. [PMID: 36115181 DOI: 10.1016/j.drup.2022.100864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has one of the highest incidence/death ratios among all neoplasms due to its late diagnosis and dominant chemoresistance. Most PDAC patients present with an advanced disease characterized by a multifactorial, inherent and acquired resistance to current anticancer treatments. This remarkable chemoresistance has been ascribed to several PDAC features including the genetic landscape, metabolic alterations, and a heterogeneous tumor microenvironment that is characterized by dense fibrosis, and a cellular contexture including functionally distinct subclasses of cancer-associated fibroblasts, immune suppressive cells, but also a number of bacteria, shaping a specific tumor microbiome microenvironment. Thus, recent studies prompted the emergence of a new research avenue, by describing the role of the microbiome in gemcitabine resistance, while next-generation-sequencing analyses identified a specific microbiome in different tumors, including PDAC. Functionally, the contribution of these microbes to PDAC chemoresistance is only beginning to be explored. Here we provide an overview of the studies demonstrating that bacteria have the capacity to metabolically transform and hence inactivate anticancer drugs, as exemplified by the inhibition of the efficacy of 10 out of 30 chemotherapeutics by Escherichia coli. Moreover, a number of bacteria modulate specific oncogenic pathways, such as Fusobacterium nucleatum, affecting autophagy and apoptosis induction by 5-fluorouracil and oxaliplatin. We hypothesize that improved understanding of how chemoresistance is driven by bacteria could enhance the efficacy of current treatments, and discuss the potential of microbiome modulation and targeted therapeutic approaches as well as the need for more reliable models and biomarkers to translate the findings of preclinical/translational research to the clinical setting, and ultimately overcome PDAC chemoresistance, hence improving clinical outcome.
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22
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Mortazavi M, Moosavi F, Martini M, Giovannetti E, Firuzi O. Prospects of targeting PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway in pancreatic cancer. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2022; 176:103749. [PMID: 35728737 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2022.103749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 06/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has one of the worst prognoses among all malignancies. PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway, a main downstream effector of KRAS is involved in the regulation of key hallmarks of cancer. We here report that whole-genome analyses demonstrate the frequent involvement of aberrant activations of PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway components in PDAC patients and critically evaluate preclinical and clinical evidence on the application of PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway targeting agents. Combinations of these agents with chemotherapeutics or other targeted therapies, including the modulators of cyclin-dependent kinases, receptor tyrosine kinases and RAF/MEK/ERK pathway are also examined. Although human genetic studies and preclinical pharmacological investigations have provided strong evidence on the role of PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway in PDAC, clinical studies in general have not been as promising. Patient stratification seems to be the key missing point and with the advent of biomarker-guided clinical trials, targeting PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway could provide valuable assets for treatment of pancreatic cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Motahareh Mortazavi
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Moosavi
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Miriam Martini
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Elisa Giovannetti
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center (VUmc), Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Cancer Pharmacology Lab, Fondazine Pisana per la Scienza, Pisa, Italy
| | - Omidreza Firuzi
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
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23
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Zhang L, Chai D, Chen C, Li C, Qiu Z, Kuang T, Parveena M, Dong K, Yu J, Deng W, Wang W. Mycobiota and C-Type Lectin Receptors in Cancers: Know thy Neighbors. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:946995. [PMID: 35910636 PMCID: PMC9326027 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.946995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous studies have demonstrated the importance of gut bacteria in the development of malignancy, while relatively little research has been done on gut mycobiota. As a part of the gut microbiome, the percentage of gut mycobiota is negligible compared to gut bacteria. However, the effect of gut fungi on human health and disease is significant. This review systematically summarizes the research progress on mycobiota, especially gut fungi, in patients with head and neck cancer (HNC), esophageal cancer (EC), gastric cancer (GC), colorectal cancer (CRC), hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), pancreatic cancer, melanoma, breast cancer, and lung carcinoma-induced cachexia. Moreover, we also describe, for the first time in detail, the role of the fungal recognition receptors, C-type lectin receptors (CLRs) (Dectin-1, Dectin-2, Dectin-3, and Mincle) and their downstream effector caspase recruitment domain-containing protein 9 (CARD9), in tumors to provide a reference for further research on intestinal fungi in the diagnosis and treatment of malignant tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilong Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Digestive System Disease, Wuhan, China
| | - Dongqi Chai
- Department of General Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Digestive System Disease, Wuhan, China
| | - Chen Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Chunlei Li
- Department of General Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Digestive System Disease, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhendong Qiu
- Department of General Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Digestive System Disease, Wuhan, China
| | - Tianrui Kuang
- Department of General Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Digestive System Disease, Wuhan, China
| | - Mungur Parveena
- Department of General Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Digestive System Disease, Wuhan, China
| | - Keshuai Dong
- Department of General Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jia Yu
- Department of General Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Wenhong Deng
- Department of General Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- *Correspondence: Wenhong Deng,
| | - Weixing Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Weixing Wang,
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Boyd LNC, Andini KD, Peters GJ, Kazemier G, Giovannetti E. Heterogeneity and plasticity of cancer-associated fibroblasts in the pancreatic tumor microenvironment. Semin Cancer Biol 2022; 82:184-196. [PMID: 33737108 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2021.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an aggressive disease with a notably poor prognosis, in urgent need of improved treatment strategies. The desmoplastic PDAC tumor microenvironment (TME), marked by a high concentration of cancer-associated-fibroblasts (CAFs), is a dynamic part of PDAC pathophysiology which occasions a variety of effects throughout the course of pancreatic tumorigenesis and disease evolution. A better understanding of the desmoplastic TME and CAF biology in particular, should provide new opportunities for improving therapeutics. That CAFs have a tumor-supportive role in oncogenesis is well known, yet research evidence has shown that CAFs also have tumor-repressive functions. In this review, we seek to clarify the intriguing heterogeneity and plasticity of CAFs and their ambivalent role in PDAC tumorigenesis and progression. Additionally, we provide recommendations to advance the implementation of CAF-directed PDAC care. An improved understanding of CAFs' origins, spatial location, functional diversity, and marker determination, as well as CAF behavior during the course of PDAC progression and metastasis will provide essential knowledge for the future improvement of therapeutic strategies for patients suffering from PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lenka N C Boyd
- Department of Surgery, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081 HZ, Postbus 7057, 1007 MB, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Medical Oncology, Lab of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081 HZ, Postbus 7057, 1007 MB, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Katarina D Andini
- Department of Medical Oncology, Lab of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081 HZ, Postbus 7057, 1007 MB, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Godefridus J Peters
- Department of Medical Oncology, Lab of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081 HZ, Postbus 7057, 1007 MB, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Biochemistry, Medical University of Gdansk, Marii Skłodowskiej-Curie 3a, 80-210, Gdańsk, Poland.
| | - Geert Kazemier
- Department of Surgery, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081 HZ, Postbus 7057, 1007 MB, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Elisa Giovannetti
- Department of Medical Oncology, Lab of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081 HZ, Postbus 7057, 1007 MB, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Cancer Pharmacology Lab, AIRC Start-Up Unit, Fondazione Pisana per la Scienza, Via Ferruccio Giovannini, 13, 56017, San Giuliano Terme PI, Pisa, Italy.
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It Takes Two to Tango: Potential Prognostic Impact of Circulating TGF-Beta and PD-L1 in Pancreatic Cancer. LIFE (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 12:life12070960. [PMID: 35888050 PMCID: PMC9323895 DOI: 10.3390/life12070960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Background: Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly devastating disease with rising incidence and poor prognosis. The lack of reliable prognostic biomarkers hampers the individual evaluation of the survival and recurrence potential. Methods: Here, we investigate the value of plasma levels of two potential key players in molecular mechanisms underlying PDAC aggressiveness and immune evasion, soluble TGF-beta (sTGF-beta) and sPD-L1, in both metastatic and radically-resected PDAC. To this aim we prospectively enrolled 38 PDAC patients and performed appropriate statistical analyses in order to evaluate their correlation, and role in the prediction of disease relapse/progression, and patients’ outcome. Results: Metastatic patients showed lower levels of circulating sTGF-beta and higher levels of sPD-L1 compared to radically-resected patients. Moreover, a decrease in sTGF-beta levels (but not sPD-L1) was significantly associated with disease relapse in radically-resected patients. We also observed lower sTGF-beta at disease progression after first-line chemotherapy in metastatic patients, though this change was not statistically significant. We found a significant correlation between the levels of sTGF-beta and sPD-L1 before first-line chemotherapy. Conclusions: These findings support the possible interaction of TGF-beta and PD-L1 pathways and suggest that sTGF-beta and sPD-L1 might synergize and be new potential blood-based biomarkers.
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Comandatore A, Balsano R, Immordino B, Arguedas D, Capula M, Baglio SR, Garajovà I, Malapelle U, Morelli L, Giovannetti E. "Depart from evil, and do good": Turning Axl from uncontrolled tumorigenic gene to biomarker for early detection of pancreatic cancer. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2022; 173:103659. [PMID: 35398264 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2022.103659] [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: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Attempts to achieve early diagnosis are crucial to improve the outcome of patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Here we present a critical evaluation of a recent study unraveling the potential of circulating AXL as a novel blood marker for early detection of PDAC and differential diagnosis from chronic pancreatitis (CP).
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Affiliation(s)
- Annalisa Comandatore
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; General Surgery Unit, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy
| | - Rita Balsano
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital of Parma, 43100 , Italy
| | - Benoit Immordino
- Fondazione Pisana per La Scienza, 56017 San Giuliano, Pisa, Italy
| | - Davinia Arguedas
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Pathology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Mjriam Capula
- Fondazione Pisana per La Scienza, 56017 San Giuliano, Pisa, Italy
| | - Serena R Baglio
- Department of Pathology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ingrid Garajovà
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital of Parma, 43100 , Italy
| | - Umberto Malapelle
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Luca Morelli
- General Surgery Unit, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56100 Pisa, Italy
| | - Elisa Giovannetti
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Fondazione Pisana per La Scienza, 56017 San Giuliano, Pisa, Italy.
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Anobile DP, Niso M, Puerta A, Fraga Rodrigues SM, Abatematteo FS, Avan A, Abate C, Riganti C, Giovannetti E. New Pharmacological Strategies against Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma: The Multifunctional Thiosemicarbazone FA4. Molecules 2022; 27:1682. [PMID: 35268783 PMCID: PMC8911630 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27051682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Revised: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
A new sigma-2 (σ2) receptor ligand (FA4) was efficiently synthesized and evaluated for cytotoxic, proapoptotic, and antimigratory activity on pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) primary cell cultures, which restrained the aggressive and chemoresistant behavior of PDAC. This compound showed relevant antiproliferative activity with half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values ranging from 0.701 to 0.825 μM. The cytotoxic activity was associated with induction of apoptosis, resulting in apoptotic indexes higher than those observed after exposure to a clinically relevant concentration of the gemcitabine, the first-line drug used against PDAC. Interestingly, FA4 was also able to significantly inhibit the migration rate of both PDAC-1 and PDAC-2 cells in the scratch wound-healing assay. In conclusion, our results support further studies to improve the library of thiosemicarbazones targeting the σ-2 receptor for a deeper understanding of the relationship between the biological activity of these compounds and the development of more efficient anticancer compounds against PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dario P. Anobile
- Department of Oncology, University of Torino, Via Santena 5/bis, 10026 Torino, Italy;
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, Cancer Center Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (A.P.); (S.M.F.R.)
| | - Mauro Niso
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Bari ALDO MORO, Via Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy; (M.N.); (F.S.A.)
| | - Adrian Puerta
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, Cancer Center Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (A.P.); (S.M.F.R.)
- BioLab, Instituto Universitario de Bio-Orgánica “Antonio González” (IUBO-AG), Universidad de La Laguna, c/Astrofísico Francisco Sánchez 2, 38206 La Laguna, Spain
| | - Stephanie M. Fraga Rodrigues
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, Cancer Center Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (A.P.); (S.M.F.R.)
| | - Francesca S. Abatematteo
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Bari ALDO MORO, Via Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy; (M.N.); (F.S.A.)
| | - Amir Avan
- Basic Medical Sciences Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Science, Mashhad 91886-17871, Iran;
- Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Science, Mashhad 91886-17871, Iran
| | - Carmen Abate
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze del Farmaco, Università degli Studi di Bari ALDO MORO, Via Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy; (M.N.); (F.S.A.)
| | - Chiara Riganti
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, Cancer Center Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (A.P.); (S.M.F.R.)
- Interdepartmental Research Center of Molecular Biotechnology, University of Torino, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Elisa Giovannetti
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, Cancer Center Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (A.P.); (S.M.F.R.)
- Fondazione Pisana per la Scienza, Via Ferruccio Giovannini 13, 56017 San Giuliano Terme, Italy
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Potential Role of Exosomes in the Chemoresistance to Gemcitabine and Nab-Paclitaxel in Pancreatic Cancer. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12020286. [PMID: 35204377 PMCID: PMC8871170 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12020286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, a growing number of studies have evaluated the role of exosomes in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma cancer (PDAC) demonstrating their involvement in a multitude of pathways, including the induction of chemoresistance. The aim of this review is to present an overview of the current knowledge on the role of exosomes in the resistance to gemcitabine and nab-paclitaxel, which are two of the most commonly used drugs for the treatment of PDAC patients. Exosomes are vesicular cargos that transport multiple miRNAs, mRNAs and proteins from one cell to another cell and some of these factors can influence specific determinants of gemcitabine activity, such as the nucleoside transporter hENT1, or multidrug resistance proteins involved in the resistance to paclitaxel. Additional mechanisms underlying exosome-mediated resistance include the modulation of apoptotic pathways, cellular metabolism, or the modulation of oncogenic miRNA, such as miR-21 and miR-155. The current status of studies on circulating exosomal miRNA and their possible role as biomarkers are also discussed. Finally, we integrated the preclinical data with emerging clinical evidence, showing how the study of exosomes could help to predict the resistance of individual tumors, and guide the clinicians in the selection of innovative therapeutic strategies to overcome drug resistance.
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Trebska-McGowan K, Chaib M, Alvarez MA, Kansal R, Pingili AK, Shibata D, Makowski L, Glazer ES. TGF-β Alters the Proportion of Infiltrating Immune Cells in a Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma. J Gastrointest Surg 2022; 26:113-121. [PMID: 34260016 DOI: 10.1007/s11605-021-05087-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Immunotherapy, such as checkpoint inhibitors against anti-programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), has not been successful in treating patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), dendritic cells (DCs), and the TGF-β cytokine are critical in anti-cancer immunity. We hypothesized that TGF-β enhances the immunosuppressive effects of TAM, MDSC, and DC presence in tumors. METHODS Using a murine PDAC cell line derived from a genetically engineered mouse model, we orthotopically implanted treated cells plus drug embedded in Matrigel into immunocompetent mice. Treatments included saline control, TGF-β1, or a TGF-β receptor 1 small molecule inhibitor, galunisertib. We investigated TAM, MDSC, DC, and TAM PD-L1 expression with flow cytometry in tumors. Separately, we used the TIMER2.0 database to analyze TAM and PD-L1 gene expression in human PDAC tumors in TCGA database. RESULTS TGF-β did not alter MDSC or DC frequencies in the primary tumors. However, in PDAC metastases to the liver, TGF-β decreased the proportion of MDSCs (P=0.022) and DCs (P=0.005). TGF-β significantly increased the percent of high PD-L1 expressing TAMs (32 ± 6 % vs. 12 ± 5%, P=0.013) but not the proportion of TAMs in primary and metastatic tumors. TAM PD-L1 gene expression in TCGA PDAC database was significantly correlated with tgb1 and tgfbr1 gene expression (P<0.01). CONCLUSIONS TGF-β is important in PDAC anti-tumor immunity, demonstrating context-dependent impact on immune cells. TGF-β has an overall immunosuppressive effect mediated by TAM PD-L1 expression and decreased presence of DCs. Future investigations will focus on enhancing anti-cancer immune effects of TGF-β receptor inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kasia Trebska-McGowan
- Divisiion of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, 910 Madison Ave, Suite 325, Memphis, TN, 38163, USA
| | - Mehdi Chaib
- Division of Hematology Oncology, Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, USA
| | - Marcus A Alvarez
- Divisiion of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, 910 Madison Ave, Suite 325, Memphis, TN, 38163, USA
| | - Rita Kansal
- Divisiion of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, 910 Madison Ave, Suite 325, Memphis, TN, 38163, USA
| | - Ajeeth K Pingili
- Division of Hematology Oncology, Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, USA
| | - David Shibata
- Divisiion of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, 910 Madison Ave, Suite 325, Memphis, TN, 38163, USA
- Center for Cancer Research, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, USA
| | - Liza Makowski
- Division of Hematology Oncology, Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, USA
- Center for Cancer Research, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, USA
| | - Evan S Glazer
- Divisiion of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, 910 Madison Ave, Suite 325, Memphis, TN, 38163, USA.
- Center for Cancer Research, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, USA.
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Guo J, Wang Y, Chen J, Qiu W, Chen W. Systematic review and trial sequential analysis of high-intensity focused ultrasound combined with chemotherapy versus chemotherapy in the treatment of unresectable pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Int J Hyperthermia 2021; 38:1375-1383. [PMID: 34541997 DOI: 10.1080/02656736.2021.1962550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to compare the survival benefits between high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) combined with chemotherapy and chemotherapy alone in patients with unresectable pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). METHODS All randomized clinical trials (RCTs) and observational studies were systematically searched through the databases of PubMed, EMBASE, CNKi and CQVIP up to December 2020. Case reports, case series and nonsystematic reviews were excluded. A meta-analysis was conducted to generate combined hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for overall survival (OS). RESULTS Seven trials, containing a total of 992 patients, were included in this study. The meta-analysis showed that a combination of HIFU and chemotherapy increased overall survival compared with chemotherapy alone, with a pooled HR of 0.40 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.28-0.58). The combined therapy group had a significant advantage in 1-year survival rate (OR: 0.35, 95% CI: 0.22-0.53, p = 0.00). The trial sequence analysis (TSA) showed that there were enough trials to control for random errors. CONCLUSION Our analysis suggests that HIFU combined with chemotherapy intravenously will prolong survival for unresectable PDAC patients. The TSA showed that the survival benefit of combined therapy was definitive and there was no need to expand the sample size for repetitive exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Ultrasound in Medicine and Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yunbing Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Ultrasound in Medicine and Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jinyun Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Ultrasound in Medicine and Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Wensheng Qiu
- State Key Laboratory of Ultrasound in Medicine and Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.,Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Wenzhi Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Ultrasound in Medicine and Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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31
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Pecoraro C, Faggion B, Balboni B, Carbone D, Peters GJ, Diana P, Assaraf YG, Giovannetti E. GSK3β as a novel promising target to overcome chemoresistance in pancreatic cancer. Drug Resist Updat 2021; 58:100779. [PMID: 34461526 DOI: 10.1016/j.drup.2021.100779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is an aggressive malignancy with increasing incidence and poor prognosis due to its late diagnosis and intrinsic chemoresistance. Most pancreatic cancer patients present with locally advanced or metastatic disease characterized by inherent resistance to chemotherapy. These features pose a series of therapeutic challenges and new targets are urgently needed. Glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK3β) is a conserved serine/threonine kinase, which regulates key cellular processes including cell proliferation, DNA repair, cell cycle progression, signaling and metabolic pathways. GSK3β is implicated in non-malignant and malignant diseases including inflammation, neurodegenerative diseases, diabetes and cancer. GSK3β recently emerged among the key factors involved in the onset and progression of pancreatic cancer, as well as in the acquisition of chemoresistance. Intensive research has been conducted on key oncogenic functions of GSK3β and its potential as a druggable target; currently developed GSK3β inhibitors display promising results in preclinical models of distinct tumor types, including pancreatic cancer. Here, we review the latest findings about GSK-3β biology and its role in the development and progression of pancreatic cancer. Moreover, we discuss therapeutic agents targeting GSK3β that could be administered as monotherapy or in combination with other drugs to surmount chemoresistance. Several studies are also defining potential gene signatures to identify patients who might benefit from GSK3β-based therapeutic intervention. This detailed overview emphasizes the urgent need of additional molecular studies on the impact of GSK3β inhibition as well as structural analysis of novel compounds and omics studies of predictive biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilla Pecoraro
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VU University, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Beatrice Faggion
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VU University, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Beatrice Balboni
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VU University, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Computational and Chemical Biology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Morego 30, 16163 Genoa, Italy, and Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Via Belmeloro 6, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Daniela Carbone
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Godefridus J Peters
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VU University, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Biochemistry, Medical University of Gdansk, Poland
| | - Patrizia Diana
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Yehuda G Assaraf
- The Fred Wyszkowski Cancer Research Laboratory, Department of Biology, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, 3200003, Israel
| | - Elisa Giovannetti
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VU University, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Cancer Pharmacology Lab, Fondazione Pisana per la Scienza, Via Ferruccio Giovannini 13, 56017 San Giuliano Terme (Pisa), Italy.
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32
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Cyclin Dependent Kinase-1 (CDK-1) Inhibition as a Novel Therapeutic Strategy against Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13174389. [PMID: 34503199 PMCID: PMC8430873 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13174389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The role of CDK1 in PDAC onset and development is two-fold. Firstly, since CDK1 activity regulates the G2/M cell cycle checkpoint, overexpression of CDK1 can lead to progression into mitosis even in cells with DNA damage, a potentially tumorigenic process. Secondly, CDK1 overexpression leads to the stimulation of a range of proteins that induce stem cell properties, which can contribute to the development of cancer stem cells (CSCs). CSCs promote tumor-initiation and metastasis and play a crucial role in the development of PDAC. Targeting CDK1 showed promising results for PDAC treatment in different preclinical models, where CDK1 inhibition induced cell cycle arrest in the G2/M phase and led to induction of apoptosis. Next to this, PDAC CSCs are uniquely sensitive to CDK1 inhibition. In addition, targeting of CDK1 has shown potential for combination therapy with both ionizing radiation treatment and conventional chemotherapy, through sensitizing tumor cells and reducing resistance to these treatments. To conclude, CDK1 inhibition induces G2/M cell cycle arrest, stimulates apoptosis, and specifically targets CSCs, which makes it a promising treatment for PDAC. Screening of patients for CDK1 overexpression and further research into combination treatments is essential for optimizing this novel targeted therapy.
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33
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Supadmanaba IGP, Comandatore A, Morelli L, Giovannetti E, Lagerweij T. Organotypic-liver slide culture systems to explore the role of extracellular vesicles in pancreatic cancer metastatic behavior and guide new therapeutic approaches. Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol 2021; 17:937-946. [PMID: 33945374 DOI: 10.1080/17425255.2021.1925646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: Recent studies suggested that extracellular vesicles (EVs) play a role both in the metastatic niche formation and in the progression of several tumors, including pancreatic cancer. In particular, the effects of EVs on metastasis should be studied in model systems that take into account both the tumor cells and the metastatic site/tumor microenvironment. Studies with labeled EVs or EV-secreting cells in ex vivo models will reflect the physiological and pathological functions of EVs. The organotypic-tissue slide culture systems can fulfill such a role.Areas covered: This review provides an overview of available organotypic-culture slide systems. We specifically focus on the assay system of liver culture-slides in combination with pancreatic tumors, which can be modulated to test the efficacy of new therapeutic approaches.Expert opinion: The intercellular exchange of EVs has emerged as a biologically relevant phenomenon to drive cancer metastasis. However, further models need to be developed to better elucidate the functional roles of EVs. The use of novel organotypic slide culture systems provides the opportunity to explore the role of EVs in the metastatic behavior of pancreatic cancer, decreasing the use of costly and cumbersome organoid or animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Gede Putu Supadmanaba
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Pathology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Udayana, Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia
| | - Annalisa Comandatore
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- General Surgery Unit, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Luca Morelli
- General Surgery Unit, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Elisa Giovannetti
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Pharmacology Lab, AIRC Start-Up Unit, Fondazione Pisana per La Scienza, Pisa, Italy
| | - Tonny Lagerweij
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Pathology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Wang S, Zheng Y, Yang F, Zhu L, Zhu XQ, Wang ZF, Wu XL, Zhou CH, Yan JY, Hu BY, Kong B, Fu DL, Bruns C, Zhao Y, Qin LX, Dong QZ. The molecular biology of pancreatic adenocarcinoma: translational challenges and clinical perspectives. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2021; 6:249. [PMID: 34219130 PMCID: PMC8255319 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-021-00659-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is an increasingly common cause of cancer mortality with a tight correspondence between disease mortality and incidence. Furthermore, it is usually diagnosed at an advanced stage with a very dismal prognosis. Due to the high heterogeneity, metabolic reprogramming, and dense stromal environment associated with pancreatic cancer, patients benefit little from current conventional therapy. Recent insight into the biology and genetics of pancreatic cancer has supported its molecular classification, thus expanding clinical therapeutic options. In this review, we summarize how the biological features of pancreatic cancer and its metabolic reprogramming as well as the tumor microenvironment regulate its development and progression. We further discuss potential biomarkers for pancreatic cancer diagnosis, prediction, and surveillance based on novel liquid biopsies. We also outline recent advances in defining pancreatic cancer subtypes and subtype-specific therapeutic responses and current preclinical therapeutic models. Finally, we discuss prospects and challenges in the clinical development of pancreatic cancer therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shun Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan Zheng
- Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Feng Yang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Pancreatic Disease Institute, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Le Zhu
- Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiao-Qiang Zhu
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Zhe-Fang Wang
- General, Visceral and Cancer Surgery, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Xiao-Lin Wu
- General, Visceral and Cancer Surgery, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Cheng-Hui Zhou
- General, Visceral and Cancer Surgery, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Jia-Yan Yan
- General, Visceral and Cancer Surgery, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bei-Yuan Hu
- Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bo Kong
- Department of Surgery, Klinikum rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - De-Liang Fu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Pancreatic Disease Institute, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Christiane Bruns
- General, Visceral and Cancer Surgery, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Yue Zhao
- General, Visceral and Cancer Surgery, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.
| | - Lun-Xiu Qin
- Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Qiong-Zhu Dong
- Department of General Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Cancer Metastasis Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
- Key laboratory of whole-period monitoring and precise intervention of digestive cancer, Shanghai Municipal Health Commission (SMHC), Shanghai, China.
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Chu Q, Wang L, Zhang J, Wang W, Wang Y. CDK5 positively regulates Notch1 signaling in pancreatic cancer cells by phosphorylation. Cancer Med 2021; 10:3689-3699. [PMID: 33960694 PMCID: PMC8178504 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.3916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Revised: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The marked overexpression of cyclin‐dependent kinase 5 (CDK5) or Notch1 receptor, which plays critical roles in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) development, has been detected in numerous PDAC cell lines and tissues. Although, a previous study has demonstrated that CDK5 inhibition disrupts Notch1 functions in human umbilical vein endothelial cells, the mechanism underlying Notch1 activation regulated by CDK5 remains unclear. Herein, we identified a physical interaction between CDK5 and Notch1 in PDAC cells, with the Notch1 peptide phosphorylated by CDK5/p25 kinase. CDK5 blockade resulted in the profound inhibition of Notch signaling. Accordingly, CDK5 inhibition sensitized PDAC cell proliferation and migration following Notch inhibition. In conclusion, CDK5 positively regulates Notch1 function via phosphorylation, which in turn promotes cell proliferation and migration. The combinational inhibition of CDK5 and Notch signaling may be an effective strategy in the treatment of PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiaoyun Chu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Liyong Wang
- Core Facilities for Molecular Biology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Clinical Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Centre for Precision Health, School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Perth, Australia
| | - Youxin Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Clinical Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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36
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Yu Y, Wang Z, Mo DH, Wang Z, Li G. Transcriptome profiling reveals liver metastasis-associated genes in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. MATHEMATICAL BIOSCIENCES AND ENGINEERING : MBE 2021; 18:1708-1721. [PMID: 33757206 DOI: 10.3934/mbe.2021088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the most lethal malignancies worldwide. However, the mechanisms underlying the acquisition of the metastatic potential in PDAC has not been well understood. In this study, we identified a total of 154 genes upregulated in primary tissues of PDAC with liver metastasis using the Genome Cancer Atlas (TCGA) and GSE151580 cohorts. The epithelial-mesenchymal transition and glycolysis were enriched by the liver metastasis-related genes, indicating that the liver metastasis-related genes might be functionally relevant to liver metastasis in PDAC. Moreover, we also found that the liver metastasis-related genes were primarily regulated at epigenetic level. Particularly, SFN, a cell cycle checkpoint protein, and KRT19, a marker gene for ductal cells, were predicted to be regulated by multiple methylation sites at the promoter. Clinically, we for the first time defined a liver metastasis score (LMS), which was derived from liver metastasis-related genes, and closely associated with clinical characteristics such as disease type and tumor grade, in PDAC. Furthermore, we also divided the samples into high and low LMS groups using three cohorts with long-term follow-up (TCGA, GSE71729, and E-MTAB-6134), which exhibited significantly different prognostic outcomes across three PDAC cohorts, suggesting that the LMS might be a good indicator for risk stratification in PDAC. Furthermore, we also found that the liver metastasis-related genes were primarily expressed in malignant ductal cells by integrative analysis of the bulk and single-cell gene expression data. Moreover, the malignant ductal cells and M0 macrophages were highly correlated with LMS, indicating that the two cell types might function as tumor-promoting cells in PDAC. In summary, the systematic analysis for the first time defined an LMS score to evaluate the risk of liver metastasis in PDAC and revealed that malignant ductal cells might promote PDAC liver metastasis, which greatly improves our understanding of the liver metastasis-related genes, their underlying mechanisms, and association with prognosis in PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Yu
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Zhe Wang
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Dai Hai Mo
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Zhen Wang
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Gang Li
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
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37
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Ge O, Huang A, Wang X, Chen Y, Ye Y, Schomburg L. PALB2 upregulation is associated with a poor prognosis in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Oncol Lett 2021; 21:224. [PMID: 33613713 PMCID: PMC7856690 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2021.12485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
During DNA repair, BRCA1 and BRCA2 interact with the tumor suppressor partner and localizer of BRCA2 (PALB2). PALB2 mutations are associated with an increased risk of breast and ovarian carcinoma, and upregulated PALB2 expression is associated with poor clinical outcomes. The present study investigated the role and prognostic value of PALB2 in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). PALB2 expression was inhibited using a small interfering RNA in PDAC cell lines, and the subsequent effects on cell proliferation and migration were investigated. Tissue microarrays from 157 patients undergoing a pancreaticoduodenectomy for PDAC were analyzed via immunohistochemistry, and PALB2 expression was compared with patient outcomes using Kaplan-Meier curves and the multivariate Cox regression model. PALB2-knockdown in PDAC cells had little effect on cell proliferation, but significantly decreased cell migration. Relatively high PALB2 expression was observed in PDAC tissues compared with in peritumoral tissues. Overall survival (OS) was negatively associated with PALB2 expression. TNM stage and PALB2 expression were identified as independent prognostic factors associated with OS via multivariate analysis. Overall, the present study demonstrated that PDAC cell migration was dependent on PALB2, which was further supported by the finding that elevated PALB2 expression in PDAC tissues was associated with poor survival in patients with PDAC. Therefore, PALB2 may serve as a novel prognostic marker in PDAC, which may aid with the development of therapeutic strategies for the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ouyang Ge
- Institute for Experimental Endocrinology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, D-13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Anle Huang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Xiamen Cancer Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361003, P.R. China
| | - Xin Wang
- Medical Department for Hematology and Oncology, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische University Munich, D-81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Yuling Chen
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, D-10117 Berlin, Germany.,German Rheumatism Research Centre Berlin, Leibniz Institute, D-10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Yuanchun Ye
- Department of Gastroenterology, Quanzhou First Hospital Affiliated to Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, Fujian 362000, P.R. China.,Department of Hematology and Oncology, Benjamin Franklin Campus, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, D-12203 Berlin, Germany
| | - Lutz Schomburg
- Institute for Experimental Endocrinology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, D-13353 Berlin, Germany
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38
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Mantini G, Meijer LL, Glogovitis I, In ‘t Veld SGJG, Paleckyte R, Capula M, Le Large TYS, Morelli L, Pham TV, Piersma SR, Frampton AE, Jimenez CR, Kazemier G, Koppers-Lalic D, Wurdinger T, Giovannetti E. Omics Analysis of Educated Platelets in Cancer and Benign Disease of the Pancreas. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 13:cancers13010066. [PMID: 33383671 PMCID: PMC7795159 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13010066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is traditionally associated with thrombocytosis/hypercoagulation and novel insights on platelet-PDAC "dangerous liaisons" are warranted. Here we performed an integrative omics study investigating the biological processes of mRNAs and expressed miRNAs, as well as proteins in PDAC blood platelets, using benign disease as a reference for inflammatory noise. Gene ontology mining revealed enrichment of RNA splicing, mRNA processing and translation initiation in miRNAs and proteins but depletion in RNA transcripts. Remarkably, correlation analyses revealed a negative regulation on SPARC transcription by isomiRs involved in cancer signaling, suggesting a specific "education" in PDAC platelets. Platelets of benign patients were enriched for non-templated additions of G nucleotides (#ntaG) miRNAs, while PDAC presented length variation on 3' (lv3p) as the most frequent modification on miRNAs. Additionally, we provided an actionable repertoire of PDAC and benign platelet-ome to be exploited for future studies. In conclusion, our data show that platelets change their biological repertoire in patients with PDAC, through dysregulation of miRNAs and splicing factors, supporting the presence of de novo protein machinery that can "educate" the platelet. These novel findings could be further exploited for innovative liquid biopsies platforms as well as possible therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Mantini
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center (VUmc), 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (G.M.); (L.L.M.); (R.P.); (T.Y.S.L.L.); (T.V.P.); (S.R.P.); (C.R.J.)
- Fondazione Pisana per la Scienza, 56017 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Laura L. Meijer
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center (VUmc), 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (G.M.); (L.L.M.); (R.P.); (T.Y.S.L.L.); (T.V.P.); (S.R.P.); (C.R.J.)
- Department of Surgery, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center (VUmc), 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Ilias Glogovitis
- Department of Neurosurgery, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center (VUmc), 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (I.G.); (S.G.J.G.I.V.); (D.K.-L.)
- Department of Plant Physiology and Molecular Biology, University of Plovdiv, 4002 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Sjors G. J. G. In ‘t Veld
- Department of Neurosurgery, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center (VUmc), 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (I.G.); (S.G.J.G.I.V.); (D.K.-L.)
| | - Rosita Paleckyte
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center (VUmc), 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (G.M.); (L.L.M.); (R.P.); (T.Y.S.L.L.); (T.V.P.); (S.R.P.); (C.R.J.)
| | - Mjriam Capula
- Fondazione Pisana per la Scienza, 56017 Pisa, Italy;
- Institute of Life Sciences, Sant’Anna School of Advanced Studies, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Tessa Y. S. Le Large
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center (VUmc), 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (G.M.); (L.L.M.); (R.P.); (T.Y.S.L.L.); (T.V.P.); (S.R.P.); (C.R.J.)
- Department of Surgery, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center (VUmc), 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Luca Morelli
- General Surgery Unit, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Thang V. Pham
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center (VUmc), 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (G.M.); (L.L.M.); (R.P.); (T.Y.S.L.L.); (T.V.P.); (S.R.P.); (C.R.J.)
| | - Sander R. Piersma
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center (VUmc), 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (G.M.); (L.L.M.); (R.P.); (T.Y.S.L.L.); (T.V.P.); (S.R.P.); (C.R.J.)
| | - Adam E. Frampton
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The Leggett Building, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7WG, UK;
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The Leggett Building, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH, UK
| | - Connie R. Jimenez
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center (VUmc), 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (G.M.); (L.L.M.); (R.P.); (T.Y.S.L.L.); (T.V.P.); (S.R.P.); (C.R.J.)
| | - Geert Kazemier
- Department of Surgery, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center (VUmc), 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Danijela Koppers-Lalic
- Department of Neurosurgery, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center (VUmc), 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (I.G.); (S.G.J.G.I.V.); (D.K.-L.)
| | - Thomas Wurdinger
- Department of Neurosurgery, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center (VUmc), 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (I.G.); (S.G.J.G.I.V.); (D.K.-L.)
- Correspondence: (T.W.); (E.G.); Tel.: +31-003-120-444-2633 (E.G.)
| | - Elisa Giovannetti
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center (VUmc), 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (G.M.); (L.L.M.); (R.P.); (T.Y.S.L.L.); (T.V.P.); (S.R.P.); (C.R.J.)
- Fondazione Pisana per la Scienza, 56017 Pisa, Italy;
- Correspondence: (T.W.); (E.G.); Tel.: +31-003-120-444-2633 (E.G.)
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Randazzo O, Papini F, Mantini G, Gregori A, Parrino B, Liu DSK, Cascioferro S, Carbone D, Peters GJ, Frampton AE, Garajova I, Giovannetti E. "Open Sesame?": Biomarker Status of the Human Equilibrative Nucleoside Transporter-1 and Molecular Mechanisms Influencing its Expression and Activity in the Uptake and Cytotoxicity of Gemcitabine in Pancreatic Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12113206. [PMID: 33142664 PMCID: PMC7692081 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12113206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Revised: 10/25/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an extremely aggressive tumor characterized by early invasiveness, rapid progression and resistance to treatment. For more than twenty years, gemcitabine has been the main therapy for PDAC both in the palliative and adjuvant setting. After the introduction of FOLFIRINOX as an upfront treatment for metastatic disease, gemcitabine is still commonly used in combination with nab-paclitaxel as an alternative first-line regimen, as well as a monotherapy in elderly patients unfit for combination chemotherapy. As a hydrophilic nucleoside analogue, gemcitabine requires nucleoside transporters to permeate the plasma membrane, and a major role in the uptake of this drug is played by human equilibrative nucleoside transporter 1 (hENT-1). Several studies have proposed hENT-1 as a biomarker for gemcitabine efficacy in PDAC. A recent comprehensive multimodal analysis of hENT-1 status evaluated its predictive role by both immunohistochemistry (with five different antibodies), and quantitative-PCR, supporting the use of the 10D7G2 antibody. High hENT-1 levels observed with this antibody were associated with prolonged disease-free status and overall-survival in patients receiving gemcitabine adjuvant chemotherapy. This commentary aims to critically discuss this analysis and lists molecular factors influencing hENT-1 expression. Improved knowledge on these factors should help the identification of subgroups of patients who may benefit from specific therapies and overcome the limitations of traditional biomarker studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ornella Randazzo
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center (VUmc), 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (O.R.); (F.P.); (G.M.); (A.G.); (G.J.P.); (I.G.)
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, 90123 Palermo, Italy; (B.P.); (S.C.); (D.C.)
| | - Filippo Papini
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center (VUmc), 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (O.R.); (F.P.); (G.M.); (A.G.); (G.J.P.); (I.G.)
| | - Giulia Mantini
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center (VUmc), 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (O.R.); (F.P.); (G.M.); (A.G.); (G.J.P.); (I.G.)
- Cancer Pharmacology Lab, AIRC Start Up Unit, Fondazione Pisana per la Scienza, 56017 Pisa, Italy
| | - Alessandro Gregori
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center (VUmc), 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (O.R.); (F.P.); (G.M.); (A.G.); (G.J.P.); (I.G.)
| | - Barbara Parrino
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, 90123 Palermo, Italy; (B.P.); (S.C.); (D.C.)
| | - Daniel S. K. Liu
- Division of Cancer, Department of Surgery & Cancer, Imperial College, Hammersmith Hospital campus, London W12 0NN, UK;
| | - Stella Cascioferro
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, 90123 Palermo, Italy; (B.P.); (S.C.); (D.C.)
| | - Daniela Carbone
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, 90123 Palermo, Italy; (B.P.); (S.C.); (D.C.)
| | - Godefridus J. Peters
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center (VUmc), 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (O.R.); (F.P.); (G.M.); (A.G.); (G.J.P.); (I.G.)
- Department of Biochemistry, Medical University of Gdansk, 80-210 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Adam E. Frampton
- Division of Cancer, Department of Surgery & Cancer, Imperial College, Hammersmith Hospital campus, London W12 0NN, UK;
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The Leggett Building, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH, UK
- Correspondence: (A.E.F.); (E.G.); Tel.: +31-003-120-444-2633 (E.G.)
| | - Ingrid Garajova
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center (VUmc), 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (O.R.); (F.P.); (G.M.); (A.G.); (G.J.P.); (I.G.)
- Medical Oncology Unit, University Hospital of Parma, Via Gramsci 14, 43126 Parma, Italy
| | - Elisa Giovannetti
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center (VUmc), 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (O.R.); (F.P.); (G.M.); (A.G.); (G.J.P.); (I.G.)
- Cancer Pharmacology Lab, AIRC Start Up Unit, Fondazione Pisana per la Scienza, 56017 Pisa, Italy
- Correspondence: (A.E.F.); (E.G.); Tel.: +31-003-120-444-2633 (E.G.)
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Yan S, Fang J, Zhu Y, Xie Y, Fang F. Comprehensive analysis of prognostic immune-related genes associated with the tumor microenvironment of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Oncol Lett 2020; 20:366. [PMID: 33133266 PMCID: PMC7590433 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2020.12228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a malignant tumor with a specific tumor immune microenvironment (TIME). Therefore, investigating prognostic immune-related genes (IRGs) that are closely associated with TIME to predict PDAC clinical outcomes is necessary. In the present study, 459 samples of PDAC from the Genotype-Tissue Expression database, The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) were included and a survival-associated module was identified using weighted gene co-expression network analysis. Based on the Cox regression analysis and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator analysis, four IRGs (2′-5′-oligoadenylate synthetase 1, MET proto-oncogene, receptor tyrosine kinase, interleukin 1 receptor type 2 and interleukin 20 receptor subunit β) were included in the prognostic model to calculate the risk score (RS), and patients with PDAC were divided into high- and low-RS groups. Kaplan-Meier survival and receiver operating characteristic curve analyses demonstrated that the low-RS group had significantly improved survival conditions compared with the high-RS group in TCGA training set. The prognostic function of the model was also validated using ICGC and GEO cohorts. To investigate the mechanism of different overall survival between the high- and low-RS groups, the present study included Estimation of Stromal and Immune Cells in Malignant Tumor Tissues Using Expression Data and Cell Type Identification by Estimating Relative Subset of Known RNA Transcripts algorithms to investigate the state of the tumor microenvironment and immune infiltration inpatients in the cohort from TCGA. In summary, four genes associated with the TIME of PDAC were identified, which may provide a reference for clinical treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shibai Yan
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region 530021, P.R. China
| | - Juntao Fang
- Laboratory of Experimental Cardiology, Department of Cardiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Yuanqiang Zhu
- Department of Infertility and Sexual Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510630, P.R. China
| | - Yong Xie
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First People's Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, Guangdong 528000, P.R. China
| | - Feng Fang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First People's Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, Guangdong 528000, P.R. China
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Granchi C, Bononi G, Ferrisi R, Gori E, Mantini G, Glasmacher S, Poli G, Palazzolo S, Caligiuri I, Rizzolio F, Canzonieri V, Perin T, Gertsch J, Sodi A, Giovannetti E, Macchia M, Minutolo F, Tuccinardi T, Chicca A. Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of second-generation benzoylpiperidine derivatives as reversible monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) inhibitors. Eur J Med Chem 2020; 209:112857. [PMID: 33045662 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2020.112857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 09/16/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
An interesting enzyme of the endocannabinoid system is monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL). This enzyme, which metabolizes the endocannabinoid 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), has attracted great interest due to its involvement in several physiological and pathological processes, such as cancer progression. Experimental evidences highlighted some drawbacks associated with the use of irreversible MAGL inhibitors in vivo, therefore the research field concerning reversible inhibitors is rapidly growing. In the present manuscript, the class of benzoylpiperidine-based MAGL inhibitors was further expanded and optimized. Enzymatic assays identified some compounds in the low nanomolar range and steered molecular dynamics simulations predicted the dissociation itinerary of one of the best compounds from the enzyme, confirming the observed structure-activity relationship. Biological evaluation, including assays in intact U937 cells and competitive activity-based protein profiling experiments in mouse brain membranes, confirmed the selectivity of the selected compounds for MAGL versus other components of the endocannabinoid system. An antiproliferative ability in a panel of cancer cell lines highlighted their potential as potential anticancer agents. Future studies on the potential use of these compounds in the clinical setting are also supported by the inhibition of cell growth observed both in cancer organoids derived from high grade serous ovarian cancer patients and in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma primary cells, which showed genetic and histological features very similar to the primary tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlotta Granchi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Giulia Bononi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Rebecca Ferrisi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Eleonora Gori
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Giulia Mantini
- Department of Medical Oncology, VU University Medical Center, Cancer Center Amsterdam, DeBoelelaan 1117, 1081HV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Cancer Pharmacology Lab, Fondazione Pisana per La Scienza, Via Giovannini 13, 56017, San Giuliano Terme, Pisa, Italy
| | - Sandra Glasmacher
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, NCCR TransCure, University of Bern, CH-3012, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Giulio Poli
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Stefano Palazzolo
- Pathology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, 33081, Aviano, Italy
| | - Isabella Caligiuri
- Pathology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, 33081, Aviano, Italy
| | - Flavio Rizzolio
- Pathology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, 33081, Aviano, Italy; Department of Molecular Sciences and Nanosystems, Ca' Foscari University, 30123, Venezia, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Canzonieri
- Pathology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, 33081, Aviano, Italy; Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, Università Degli Studi di Trieste, Strada di Fiume 447, Trieste, Italy
| | - Tiziana Perin
- Pathology Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, 33081, Aviano, Italy
| | - Jürg Gertsch
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, NCCR TransCure, University of Bern, CH-3012, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Andrea Sodi
- Department of Neurosciences, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health Eye Clinic, University of Florence, AOU Careggi, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - Elisa Giovannetti
- Department of Medical Oncology, VU University Medical Center, Cancer Center Amsterdam, DeBoelelaan 1117, 1081HV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Cancer Pharmacology Lab, Fondazione Pisana per La Scienza, Via Giovannini 13, 56017, San Giuliano Terme, Pisa, Italy
| | - Marco Macchia
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Filippo Minutolo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Tiziano Tuccinardi
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Andrea Chicca
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, NCCR TransCure, University of Bern, CH-3012, Bern, Switzerland
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Sun W, Ren Y, Lu Z, Zhao X. The potential roles of exosomes in pancreatic cancer initiation and metastasis. Mol Cancer 2020; 19:135. [PMID: 32878635 PMCID: PMC7466807 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-020-01255-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PaCa) is an insidious and highly metastatic malignancy, with a 5-year survival rate of less than 5%. So far, the pathogenesis and progression mechanisms of PaCa have been poorly characterized. Exosomes correspond to a class of extracellular nanovesicles, produced by a broad range of human somatic and cancerous cells. These particular nanovesicles are mainly composed by proteins, genetic substances and lipids, which mediate signal transduction and material transport. A large number of studies have indicated that exosomes may play decisive roles in the occurrence and metastatic progression of PaCa. This article summarizes the specific functions of exosomes and their underlying molecular mechanisms in mediating the initiation and metastatic capability of PaCa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Sun
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, 36 Sanhao Street, Heping District, Shenyang, 110004, Liaoning, China
| | - Ying Ren
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, 36 Sanhao Street, Heping District, Shenyang, 110004, Liaoning, China
| | - Zaiming Lu
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, 36 Sanhao Street, Heping District, Shenyang, 110004, Liaoning, China
| | - Xiangxuan Zhao
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, 36 Sanhao Street, Heping District, Shenyang, 110004, Liaoning, China.
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Pancreatic cancer resistance conferred by stellate cells: looking for new preclinical models. Exp Hematol Oncol 2020; 9:18. [PMID: 32775041 PMCID: PMC7398063 DOI: 10.1186/s40164-020-00176-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has an extremely poor response to chemo- and (modest-dose conventionally fractionated) radio-therapy. Emerging evidence suggests that pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) secrete deoxycytidine, which confers resistance to gemcitabine. In particular, deoxycytidine was detected by analysis of metabolites in fractionated media from different mouse PSCs, showing that it caused PDAC cells chemoresistance by reducing the capacity of deoxycytidine kinase (dCK) for gemcitabine phosphorylation. However, data on human models are missing and dCK expression was not associated with clinical efficacy of gemcitabine. We recently established co-culture models of hetero-spheroids including primary human PSCs and PDAC cells showing their importance as a platform to test the effects of cancer- and stroma-targeted drugs. Here, we discuss the limitations of previous studies and the potential use of above-mentioned models to study molecular mechanisms underlying chemo- and radio-resistance.
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Liu J, Luo X, Guo R, Jing W, Lu H. Cell Metabolomics Reveals Berberine-Inhibited Pancreatic Cancer Cell Viability and Metastasis by Regulating Citrate Metabolism. J Proteome Res 2020; 19:3825-3836. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.0c00394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Liu
- Key Laboratory of Systems Biomedicine (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Center for Systems Biomedicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
- Laboratory for Functional Metabolomics Science, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Xialin Luo
- Key Laboratory of Systems Biomedicine (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Center for Systems Biomedicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
- Laboratory for Functional Metabolomics Science, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Rui Guo
- Key Laboratory of Systems Biomedicine (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Center for Systems Biomedicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
- Laboratory for Functional Metabolomics Science, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Wanghui Jing
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710061, China
| | - Haitao Lu
- Key Laboratory of Systems Biomedicine (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Center for Systems Biomedicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
- Laboratory for Functional Metabolomics Science, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
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45
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Cancer associated fibroblast: Mediators of tumorigenesis. Matrix Biol 2020; 91-92:19-34. [PMID: 32450219 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2020.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2019] [Revised: 05/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
It is well accepted that the tumor microenvironment plays a pivotal role in cancer onset, development, and progression. The majority of clinical interventions are designed to target either cancer or stroma cells. These emphases have been directed by one of two prevailing theories in the field, the Somatic Mutation Theory and the Tissue Organization Field Theory, which represent two seemingly opposing concepts. This review proposes that the two theories are mutually inclusive and should be concurrently considered for cancer treatments. Specifically, this review discusses the dynamic and reciprocal processes between stromal cells and extracellular matrices, using pancreatic cancer as an example, to demonstrate the inclusivity of the theories. Furthermore, this review highlights the functions of cancer associated fibroblasts, which represent the major stromal cell type, as important mediators of the known cancer hallmarks that the two theories attempt to explain.
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Qian W, Xiao Q, Wang L, Qin T, Xiao Y, Li J, Yue Y, Zhou C, Duan W, Ma Q, Ma J. Resveratrol slows the tumourigenesis of pancreatic cancer by inhibiting NFκB activation. Biomed Pharmacother 2020; 127:110116. [PMID: 32428833 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2020.110116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2020] [Revised: 03/17/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly malignant tumour with an extremely poor prognosis due to its insidious initiation and a lack of therapeutic strategies. Resveratrol suppresses pancreatic cancer progression and attenuates pancreatitis by modulating multiple targets, including nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB) signalling pathways. However, the effect of resveratrol on pancreatic cancer initiation and its mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, we utilised the LSL-KrasG12D/+; Pdx1-Cre (KC) spontaneous pancreatic precancerous lesion mouse model to explore the anti-tumourigenesis mechanisms of resveratrol in vivo. In vitro acinar-to-ductal metaplasia (ADM) and pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasias (PanINs) formation assays were performed by pancreatic acinar cell 3-dimensional (3D) culture. Histopathological analysis was used to examine the pathological morphology of pancreatic tissues. Resveratrol prevented the progression of pancreatic precancerous lesions and inhibited the activation of NFκB signalling pathway-related molecules in KC mouse pancreatic tissues. In addition, resveratrol reduced the severity of cerulein-induced pancreatitis and the formation of ADM/PanINs in vivo and in vitro, which may be related to its effect on NFκB inactivation. Furthermore, pancreatic acinar 3D culture demonstrated that activation of the NFκB signalling pathway promoted the formation of ADM/PanINs in vitro, and this initiating effect of NFκB was blocked by resveratrol. Resveratrol slowed the tumourigenesis of pancreatic cancer by inhibiting NFκB activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weikun Qian
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China.
| | - Qigui Xiao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China.
| | - Lin Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China.
| | - Tao Qin
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China.
| | - Ying Xiao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China.
| | - Jie Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China.
| | - Yangyang Yue
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China.
| | - Cancan Zhou
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China.
| | - Wanxing Duan
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China.
| | - Qingyong Ma
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China.
| | - Jiguang Ma
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, China.
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Zhang W, Shang S, Yang Y, Lu P, Wang T, Cui X, Tang X. Identification of DNA methylation-driven genes by integrative analysis of DNA methylation and transcriptome data in pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Exp Ther Med 2020; 19:2963-2972. [PMID: 32256782 PMCID: PMC7086284 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2020.8554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD) is a painful and fatal disease that undoubtedly remains a health care priority and offers significant therapeutic challenges. The significance of epigenetic modifications, including DNA methylation in tumor development, has gained the attention of researchers. Identifying DNA methylation-driven genes and investigating the mechanisms underlying the tumorigenesis of PAAD are of substantial importance for developing methods of physiological evaluation, treatment planning and prognostic prediction for PAAD. In the present study, a comprehensive analysis of DNA methylation and gene expression data from 188 clinical samples was performed to identify DNA methylation-driven genes in PAAD. In addition, the diagnostic and prognostic value of DNA methylation-driven genes was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic curve, survival and recurrence analyses. A total of 7 DNA methylation-driven genes, namely zinc finger protein 208 (ZNF208), eomesodermin (EOMES), prostaglandin D2 receptor (PTGDR), chromosome 12 open reading frame 42 (C12orf42), integrin subunit α 4 (ITGA4), dedicator of cytokinesis 8 and protein phosphatase 1 regulatory inhibitor subunit 14D (PPP1R14D), were identified. All of them may be used to diagnose PAAD with excellent specificity and sensitivity (area under curve, >0.8). Of the 7 DNA methylation-driven genes, 6 were significantly associated with overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS) P<0.05). Among them, ZNF208, EOMES, PTGDR, C12orf42 and ITGA4 were significantly negatively associated with the OS rate and positively associated with the recurrence rate, while PPP1R14D was significantly positively associated with the OS rate and negatively associated with the recurrence rate. The present study provides novel insight into the epigenetic alterations associated with the occurrence and progression of PAAD, thereby increasing the mechanistic understanding of this disease, offering potential novel molecular biomarkers and contributing to the development of therapeutic targets for PAAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhang
- Department of Marine Ecology, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, P.R. China
| | - Shuai Shang
- Department of Marine Ecology, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, P.R. China
| | - Yingying Yang
- Department of Marine Ecology, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, P.R. China
| | - Peiyao Lu
- Department of Marine Ecology, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, P.R. China
| | - Teng Wang
- Department of Marine Ecology, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, P.R. China
| | - Xinyi Cui
- Department of Marine Ecology, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, P.R. China
| | - Xuexi Tang
- Department of Marine Ecology, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, Shandong 266003, P.R. China.,Laboratory for Marine Ecology and Environmental Science, Qingdao National Laboratory of Oceanology for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, Shandong 266071, P.R. China
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48
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Lim N, Townsend PA. Cdc6 as a novel target in cancer: Oncogenic potential, senescence and subcellular localisation. Int J Cancer 2020; 147:1528-1534. [PMID: 32010971 PMCID: PMC7496346 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.32900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2019] [Revised: 12/22/2019] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Cdc6 is a key replication licencing factor with a pivotal role in regulating the process of DNA replication, rendering it an important investigatory focus in tumourigenesis. Indeed, Cdc6 overexpression has been found to be a feature in certain tumours and has been associated as an early event in malignancies. With a focus on pancreatic cancer, there are evidence of its convergence in downstream pathways implicated in major genetic alterations found in pancreatic cancer, primarily KRAS. There is also data of its direct influence on protumourigenic processes as a transcriptional regulator, repressing the key tumour suppressor loci CDH1 (E‐Cadherin) and influencing epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT). Moreover, gene amplification of Cdc6 as well as of E2F (an upstream regulator of Cdc6) have also been found to be a key feature in tumours overexpressing Cdc6, further highlighting this event as a potential driver of tumourigenesis. In this review, we summarise the evidence for the role of Cdc6 overexpression in cancer, specifically that of pancreatic cancer. More importantly, we recapitulate the role of Cdc6 as part of the DNA damage response and on senescence—an important antitumour barrier—in the context of pancreatic cancer. Finally, recent emerging observations suggest that the potential of the subcellular localisation of Cdc6 in inducing senescence. In this regard, we speculate and hypothesise potentially exploitable mechanisms in the context of inducing senescence via a novel pathway involving cytoplasmic retention of Cdc6 and Cyclin E.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Lim
- Division of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester Cancer Research Centre, NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Paul A Townsend
- Division of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester Cancer Research Centre, NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom.,Molecular Carcinogenesis Group, Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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49
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Cascioferro S, Petri GL, Parrino B, Carbone D, Funel N, Bergonzini C, Mantini G, Dekker H, Geerke D, Peters GJ, Cirrincione G, Giovannetti E, Diana P. Imidazo[2,1-b] [1,3,4]thiadiazoles with antiproliferative activity against primary and gemcitabine-resistant pancreatic cancer cells. Eur J Med Chem 2020; 189:112088. [PMID: 32007666 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2020.112088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Revised: 01/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
A new series of eighteen imidazo [2,1-b] [1,3,4]thiadiazole derivatives was efficiently synthesized and screened for antiproliferative activity against the National Cancer Institute (NCI-60) cell lines panel. Two out of eighteen derivatives, compounds 12a and 12h, showed remarkably cytotoxic activity with the half maximal inhibitory concentration values (IC50) ranging from 0.23 to 11.4 μM, and 0.29-12.2 μM, respectively. However, two additional compounds, 12b and 13g, displayed remarkable in vitro antiproliferative activity against pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) cell lines, including immortalized (SUIT-2, Capan-1, Panc-1), primary (PDAC-3) and gemcitabine-resistant (Panc-1R), eliciting IC50 values ranging from micromolar to sub-micromolar level, associated with significant reduction of cell-migration and spheroid shrinkage. These remarkable results might be explained by modulation of key regulators of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), including E-cadherin and vimentin, and inhibition of metalloproteinase-2/-9. High-throughput arrays revealed a significant inhibition of the phosphorylation of 45 tyrosine kinases substrates, whose visualization on Cytoscape highlighted PTK2/FAK as an important hub. Inhibition of phosphorylation of PTK2/FAK was validated as one of the possible mechanisms of action, using a specific ELISA. In conclusion, novel imidazothiadiazoles show potent antiproliferative activity, mediated by modulation of EMT and PTK2/FAK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stella Cascioferro
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123, Palermo, Italy
| | - Giovanna Li Petri
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123, Palermo, Italy; Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VU University Cancer Center Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081HV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Barbara Parrino
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123, Palermo, Italy
| | - Daniela Carbone
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123, Palermo, Italy
| | - Niccola Funel
- Unit of Anatomic Pathology II, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, Via Roma 67, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Cecilia Bergonzini
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VU University Cancer Center Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081HV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Giulia Mantini
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VU University Cancer Center Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081HV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Henk Dekker
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VU University Cancer Center Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081HV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Daan Geerke
- AIMMS Division of Molecular Toxicology, Department of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, VU University Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1108, 1081 HZ, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Godefridus J Peters
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VU University Cancer Center Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081HV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Girolamo Cirrincione
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123, Palermo, Italy
| | - Elisa Giovannetti
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VU University Cancer Center Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081HV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Fondazione Pisana per la Scienza, Via Ferruccio Giovannini 13, 56017, San Giuliano Terme, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Patrizia Diana
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123, Palermo, Italy.
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50
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Cascioferro S, Li Petri G, Parrino B, El Hassouni B, Carbone D, Arizza V, Perricone U, Padova A, Funel N, Peters GJ, Cirrincione G, Giovannetti E, Diana P. 3-(6-Phenylimidazo [2,1- b][1,3,4]thiadiazol-2-yl)-1 H-Indole Derivatives as New Anticancer Agents in the Treatment of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma. Molecules 2020; 25:E329. [PMID: 31947550 PMCID: PMC7024338 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25020329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2019] [Revised: 12/23/2019] [Accepted: 12/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
A new series of imidazo[2,1-b][1,3,4]thiadiazole derivatives was efficiently synthesized and screened for their in vitro antiproliferative activity on a panel of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) cells, including SUIT-2, Capan-1 and Panc-1. Compounds 9c and 9l, showed relevant in vitro antiproliferative activity on all three pre-clinical models with half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) ranging from 5.11 to 10.8 µM, while the compounds 9e and 9n were active in at least one cell line. In addition, compound 9c significantly inhibited the migration rate of SUIT-2 and Capan-1 cells in the scratch wound-healing assay. In conclusion, our results will support further studies to increase the library of imidazo [2,1-b][1,3,4] thiadiazole derivatives for deeper understanding of the relationship between biological activity of the compounds and their structures in the development of new antitumor compounds against pancreatic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stella Cascioferro
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy; (S.C.); (G.L.P.); (B.P.); (D.C.); (V.A.); (G.C.)
| | - Giovanna Li Petri
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy; (S.C.); (G.L.P.); (B.P.); (D.C.); (V.A.); (G.C.)
- Department of Medical Oncology, VU University Medical Center, Cancer Center Amsterdam, DeBoelelaan 1117, 1081HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (B.E.H.); (G.J.P.)
| | - Barbara Parrino
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy; (S.C.); (G.L.P.); (B.P.); (D.C.); (V.A.); (G.C.)
| | - Btissame El Hassouni
- Department of Medical Oncology, VU University Medical Center, Cancer Center Amsterdam, DeBoelelaan 1117, 1081HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (B.E.H.); (G.J.P.)
| | - Daniela Carbone
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy; (S.C.); (G.L.P.); (B.P.); (D.C.); (V.A.); (G.C.)
| | - Vincenzo Arizza
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy; (S.C.); (G.L.P.); (B.P.); (D.C.); (V.A.); (G.C.)
| | - Ugo Perricone
- Fondazione RI.MED, Via Bandiera 11, 90133 Palermo, Italy; (U.P.); (A.P.)
| | - Alessandro Padova
- Fondazione RI.MED, Via Bandiera 11, 90133 Palermo, Italy; (U.P.); (A.P.)
| | - Niccola Funel
- Cancer Pharmacology Lab, Fondazione Pisana per la Scienza, via Ferruccio Giovannini 13, 56017 San Giuliano Terme, Pisa, Italy;
| | - Godefridus J. Peters
- Department of Medical Oncology, VU University Medical Center, Cancer Center Amsterdam, DeBoelelaan 1117, 1081HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (B.E.H.); (G.J.P.)
| | - Girolamo Cirrincione
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy; (S.C.); (G.L.P.); (B.P.); (D.C.); (V.A.); (G.C.)
| | - Elisa Giovannetti
- Department of Medical Oncology, VU University Medical Center, Cancer Center Amsterdam, DeBoelelaan 1117, 1081HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (B.E.H.); (G.J.P.)
- Cancer Pharmacology Lab, Fondazione Pisana per la Scienza, via Ferruccio Giovannini 13, 56017 San Giuliano Terme, Pisa, Italy;
| | - Patrizia Diana
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Biologiche Chimiche e Farmaceutiche (STEBICEF), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via Archirafi 32, 90123 Palermo, Italy; (S.C.); (G.L.P.); (B.P.); (D.C.); (V.A.); (G.C.)
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