1
|
Younesi FS, Miller AE, Barker TH, Rossi FMV, Hinz B. Fibroblast and myofibroblast activation in normal tissue repair and fibrosis. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2024; 25:617-638. [PMID: 38589640 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-024-00716-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
The term 'fibroblast' often serves as a catch-all for a diverse array of mesenchymal cells, including perivascular cells, stromal progenitor cells and bona fide fibroblasts. Although phenotypically similar, these subpopulations are functionally distinct, maintaining tissue integrity and serving as local progenitor reservoirs. In response to tissue injury, these cells undergo a dynamic fibroblast-myofibroblast transition, marked by extracellular matrix secretion and contraction of actomyosin-based stress fibres. Importantly, whereas transient activation into myofibroblasts aids in tissue repair, persistent activation triggers pathological fibrosis. In this Review, we discuss the roles of mechanical cues, such as tissue stiffness and strain, alongside cell signalling pathways and extracellular matrix ligands in modulating myofibroblast activation and survival. We also highlight the role of epigenetic modifications and myofibroblast memory in physiological and pathological processes. Finally, we discuss potential strategies for therapeutically interfering with these factors and the associated signal transduction pathways to improve the outcome of dysregulated healing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fereshteh Sadat Younesi
- Keenan Research Institute for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrew E Miller
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Thomas H Barker
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Fabio M V Rossi
- School of Biomedical Engineering and Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Boris Hinz
- Keenan Research Institute for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Sajjadi SF, Salehi N, Sadeghi M. Comprehensive integrated single-cell RNA sequencing analysis of brain metastasis and glioma microenvironment: Contrasting heterogeneity landscapes. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0306220. [PMID: 39058687 PMCID: PMC11280140 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0306220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Understanding the specific type of brain malignancy, source of brain metastasis, and underlying transformation mechanisms can help provide better treatment and less harm to patients. The tumor microenvironment plays a fundamental role in cancer progression and affects both primary and metastatic cancers. The use of single-cell RNA sequencing to gain insights into the heterogeneity profiles in the microenvironment of brain malignancies is useful for guiding treatment decisions. To comprehensively investigate the heterogeneity in gliomas and brain metastasis originating from different sources (lung and breast), we integrated data from three groups of single-cell RNA-sequencing datasets obtained from GEO. We gathered and processed single-cell RNA sequencing data from 90,168 cells obtained from 17 patients. We then employed the R package Seurat for dataset integration. Next, we clustered the data within the UMAP space and acquired differentially expressed genes for cell categorization. Our results underscore the significance of macrophages as abundant and pivotal constituents of gliomas. In contrast, lung-to-brain metastases exhibit elevated numbers of AT2, cytotoxic CD4+ T, and exhausted CD8+ T cells. Conversely, breast-to-brain metastases are characterized by an abundance of epithelial and myCAF cells. Our study not only illuminates the variation in the TME between brain metastasis with different origins but also opens the door to utilizing established markers for these cell types to differentiate primary brain metastatic cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seyedeh Fatemeh Sajjadi
- School of Biological Science, Institute for Research in Fundamental Sciences (IPM), Tehran, Iran
| | - Najmeh Salehi
- School of Biological Science, Institute for Research in Fundamental Sciences (IPM), Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Sadeghi
- School of Biological Science, Institute for Research in Fundamental Sciences (IPM), Tehran, Iran
- National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (NIGEB), Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Argentiero A, Andriano A, Caradonna IC, de Martino G, Desantis V. Decoding the Intricate Landscape of Pancreatic Cancer: Insights into Tumor Biology, Microenvironment, and Therapeutic Interventions. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2438. [PMID: 39001498 PMCID: PMC11240778 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16132438] [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: 05/30/2024] [Revised: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) presents significant oncological challenges due to its aggressive nature and poor prognosis. The tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a critical role in progression and treatment resistance. Non-neoplastic cells, such as cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), contribute to tumor growth, angiogenesis, and immune evasion. Although immune cells infiltrate TME, tumor cells evade immune responses by secreting chemokines and expressing immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). Vascular components, like endothelial cells and pericytes, stimulate angiogenesis to support tumor growth, while adipocytes secrete factors that promote cell growth, invasion, and treatment resistance. Additionally, perineural invasion, a characteristic feature of PDAC, contributes to local recurrence and poor prognosis. Moreover, key signaling pathways including Kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene (KRAS), transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β), Notch, hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF), and Wnt/β-catenin drive tumor progression and resistance. Targeting the TME is crucial for developing effective therapies, including strategies like inhibiting CAFs, modulating immune response, disrupting angiogenesis, and blocking neural cell interactions. A recent multi-omic approach has identified signature genes associated with anoikis resistance, which could serve as prognostic biomarkers and targets for personalized therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Alessandro Andriano
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, Pharmacology Section, Medical School, University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Ingrid Catalina Caradonna
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, Pharmacology Section, Medical School, University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Giulia de Martino
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnology and Environment, University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70121 Bari, Italy
| | - Vanessa Desantis
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, Pharmacology Section, Medical School, University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70124 Bari, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Damerau A, Rosenow E, Alkhoury D, Buttgereit F, Gaber T. Fibrotic pathways and fibroblast-like synoviocyte phenotypes in osteoarthritis. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1385006. [PMID: 38895122 PMCID: PMC11183113 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1385006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis, characterized by osteophyte formation, cartilage degradation, and structural and cellular alterations of the synovial membrane. Activated fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) of the synovial membrane have been identified as key drivers, secreting humoral mediators that maintain inflammatory processes, proteases that cause cartilage and bone destruction, and factors that drive fibrotic processes. In normal tissue repair, fibrotic processes are terminated after the damage has been repaired. In fibrosis, tissue remodeling and wound healing are exaggerated and prolonged. Various stressors, including aging, joint instability, and inflammation, lead to structural damage of the joint and micro lesions within the synovial tissue. One result is the reduced production of synovial fluid (lubricants), which reduces the lubricity of the cartilage areas, leading to cartilage damage. In the synovial tissue, a wound-healing cascade is initiated by activating macrophages, Th2 cells, and FLS. The latter can be divided into two major populations. The destructive thymocyte differentiation antigen (THY)1─ phenotype is restricted to the synovial lining layer. In contrast, the THY1+ phenotype of the sublining layer is classified as an invasive one with immune effector function driving synovitis. The exact mechanisms involved in the transition of fibroblasts into a myofibroblast-like phenotype that drives fibrosis remain unclear. The review provides an overview of the phenotypes and spatial distribution of FLS in the synovial membrane of OA, describes the mechanisms of fibroblast into myofibroblast activation, and the metabolic alterations of myofibroblast-like cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Damerau
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- German Rheumatism Research Center Berlin, a Leibniz Institute, Glucocorticoids - Bioenergetics - 3R Research Lab, Berlin, Germany
| | - Emely Rosenow
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Dana Alkhoury
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Frank Buttgereit
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- German Rheumatism Research Center Berlin, a Leibniz Institute, Glucocorticoids - Bioenergetics - 3R Research Lab, Berlin, Germany
| | - Timo Gaber
- Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- German Rheumatism Research Center Berlin, a Leibniz Institute, Glucocorticoids - Bioenergetics - 3R Research Lab, Berlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Röhrich M, Daum J, Gutjahr E, Spektor AM, Glatting FM, Sahin YA, Buchholz HG, Hoppner J, Schroeter C, Mavriopoulou E, Schlamp K, Grott M, Eichhorn F, Heußel CP, Kauczor HU, Kreuter M, Giesel F, Schreckenberger M, Winter H, Haberkorn U. Diagnostic Potential of Supplemental Static and Dynamic 68Ga-FAPI-46 PET for Primary 18F-FDG-Negative Pulmonary Lesions. J Nucl Med 2024; 65:872-879. [PMID: 38604763 PMCID: PMC11149599 DOI: 10.2967/jnumed.123.267103] [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: 11/24/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
PET using 68Ga-labeled fibroblast activation protein (FAP) inhibitors (FAPIs) holds high potential for diagnostic imaging of various malignancies, including lung cancer (LC). However, 18F-FDG PET is still the clinical gold standard for LC imaging. Several subtypes of LC, especially lepidic LC, are frequently 18F-FDG PET-negative, which markedly hampers the assessment of single pulmonary lesions suggestive of LC. Here, we evaluated the diagnostic potential of static and dynamic 68Ga-FAPI-46 PET in the 18F-FDG-negative pulmonary lesions of 19 patients who underwent surgery or biopsy for histologic diagnosis after PET imaging. For target validation, FAP expression in lepidic LC was confirmed by FAP immunohistochemistry. Methods: Hematoxylin and eosin staining and FAP immunohistochemistry of 24 tissue sections of lepidic LC from the local tissue bank were performed and analyzed visually. Clinically, 19 patients underwent static and dynamic 68Ga-FAPI-46 PET in addition to 18F-FDG PET based on individual clinical indications. Static PET data of both examinations were analyzed by determining SUVmax, SUVmean, and tumor-to-background ratio (TBR) against the blood pool, as well as relative parameters (68Ga-FAPI-46 in relation to18F-FDG), of histologically confirmed LC and benign lesions. Time-activity curves and dynamic parameters (time to peak, slope, k 1, k 2, k 3, and k 4) were extracted from dynamic 68Ga-FAPI-46 PET data. The sensitivity and specificity of all parameters were analyzed by calculating receiver-operating-characteristic curves. Results: FAP immunohistochemistry confirmed the presence of strongly FAP-positive cancer-associated fibroblasts in lepidic LC. LC showed markedly elevated 68Ga-FAPI-46 uptake, higher TBRs, and higher 68Ga-FAPI-46-to-18F-FDG ratios for all parameters than did benign pulmonary lesions. Dynamic imaging analysis revealed differential time-activity curves for LC and benign pulmonary lesions: initially increasing time-activity curves with a decent slope were typical of LC, and steadily decreasing time-activity curve indicated benign pulmonary lesions, as was reflected by a significantly increased time to peak and significantly smaller absolute values of the slope for LC. Relative 68Ga-FAPI-46-to-18F-FDG ratios regarding SUVmax and TBR showed the highest sensitivity and specificity for the discrimination of LC from benign pulmonary lesions. Conclusion: 68Ga-FAPI-46 PET is a powerful new tool for the assessment of single 18F-FDG-negative pulmonary lesions and may optimize patient stratification in this clinical setting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Röhrich
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany;
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Mainz, Mainz, Germany
- German Center of Lung Research, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Johanna Daum
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- German Center of Lung Research, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ewgenija Gutjahr
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Anna-Maria Spektor
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- German Center of Lung Research, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Frederik M Glatting
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Molecular and Radiation Oncology, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | | | - Jorge Hoppner
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- German Center of Lung Research, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Cathrin Schroeter
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- German Center of Lung Research, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Eleni Mavriopoulou
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- German Center of Lung Research, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Kai Schlamp
- German Center of Lung Research, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Radiology, Thoraxklinik, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Matthias Grott
- German Center of Lung Research, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Thoraxklinik, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Florian Eichhorn
- German Center of Lung Research, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Thoraxklinik, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Claus Peter Heußel
- German Center of Lung Research, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Radiology, Thoraxklinik, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Hans Ulrich Kauczor
- German Center of Lung Research, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Center for Interstitial and Rare Lung Diseases, Pneumology, and Respiratory Critical Care Medicine, Thoraxklinik, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Michael Kreuter
- Department of Pneumology, Mainz Center for Pulmonary Medicine, Mainz University, Mainz, Germany
- Medical Center and Department of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Marienhaus Clinic Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Frederik Giesel
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- German Center of Lung Research, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Medical Faculty, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
- Institute for Radiation Sciences, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
- German Cancer Consortium, Heidelberg, Germany; and
| | | | - Hauke Winter
- German Center of Lung Research, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Radiology, Thoraxklinik, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Uwe Haberkorn
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- German Center of Lung Research, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Nuclear Medicine, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Devarasou S, Kang M, Shin JH. Biophysical perspectives to understanding cancer-associated fibroblasts. APL Bioeng 2024; 8:021507. [PMID: 38855445 PMCID: PMC11161195 DOI: 10.1063/5.0199024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
The understanding of cancer has evolved significantly, with the tumor microenvironment (TME) now recognized as a critical factor influencing the onset and progression of the disease. This broader perspective challenges the traditional view that cancer is primarily caused by mutations, instead emphasizing the dynamic interaction between different cell types and physicochemical factors within the TME. Among these factors, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) command attention for their profound influence on tumor behavior and patient prognoses. Despite their recognized importance, the biophysical and mechanical interactions of CAFs within the TME remain elusive. This review examines the distinctive physical characteristics of CAFs, their morphological attributes, and mechanical interactions within the TME. We discuss the impact of mechanotransduction on CAF function and highlight how these cells communicate mechanically with neighboring cancer cells, thereby shaping the path of tumor development and progression. By concentrating on the biomechanical regulation of CAFs, this review aims to deepen our understanding of their role in the TME and to illuminate new biomechanical-based therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Somayadineshraj Devarasou
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Korea
| | - Minwoo Kang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Korea
| | - Jennifer H. Shin
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Li X, Lei Y. Construction of a prognostic risk model for Stomach adenocarcinoma based on endoplasmic reticulum stress genes. Wien Klin Wochenschr 2024; 136:319-330. [PMID: 37993598 DOI: 10.1007/s00508-023-02306-0] [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: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Stomach adenocarcinoma (STAD) is caused by malignant transformation of gastric glandular cells and is characterized by a high incidence rate and a poor prognosis. This study was designed to establish a prognostic risk model for STAD according to endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress feature genes as cancer cells are susceptible to ER stress. METHODS The TCGA-STAD dataset was downloaded to screen differentially expressed genes (DEGs). By intersecting DEGs with ER stress genes retrieved from GeneCards, ER stress-related DEGs in STAD were obtained. Kmeans cluster analysis of STAD subtypes and Single sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) analysis of immune infiltration were performed. Cox regression analysis was utilized to construct a risk prognostic model. Samples were split into high-risk and low-risk groups according to the median risk score. Survival analysis and Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves were conducted to assess the validity of the model. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was performed to investigate differential pathways in the two risk groups. Cox analysis was performed to verify the independence of the risk model, and a nomogram was generated. RESULTS A total of 162 ER stress-related DEGs in STAD were identified by bioinformatics analysis. Kmeans cluster analysis showed that STAD was divided into 3 subgroups. The ssGSEA showed that the levels of immune infiltration in subgroups 2 and 3 were significantly higher than subgroup 1. With 12 prognostic genes (MATN3, ATP2A1, NOX4, AQP11, HP, CAV1, STARD3, FKBP10, EGF, F2, SERPINE1, CNGA3) selected from ER stress-related DEGs using Cox regression analysis, we then constructed a prognostic model. Kaplan-Meier (K‑M) survival curves and ROC curves showed good prediction performance of the model. Significant enrichment of genes in the high-risk group was found in extracellular matrix (ECM) receptor interaction. Cox regression analysis combined with clinical factors showed that the risk model could be used as an independent prognostic factor. The prediction correction curve showed that the good prediction ability of the nomogram. CONCLUSION The STAD could be divided into three subgroups, and the 12-gene model constructed by ER stress signatures had a good prognostic performance for STAD patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xi Li
- Department of General Surgery, Zigong Fourth People's Hospital, No. 19 Tanmulin Street, Ziliujing District, 643000, Zigong City, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Yuehua Lei
- Department of General Surgery, Zigong Fourth People's Hospital, No. 19 Tanmulin Street, Ziliujing District, 643000, Zigong City, Sichuan Province, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Liu Y, Han X, Han Y, Bi J, Wu Y, Xiang D, Zhang Y, Bi W, Xu M, Li J. Integrated transcriptomic analysis systematically reveals the heterogeneity and molecular characterization of cancer-associated fibroblasts in osteosarcoma. Gene 2024; 907:148286. [PMID: 38367852 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2024.148286] [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: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Osteosarcoma (OS), with a peak incidence during the adolescent growth spurt, is correlated with poor prognosis for its high malignancy. The tumor microenvironment (TME) is highly complicated, with frequent interactions between tumor and stromal cells. The cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in the TME have been considered to actively involve in the progression, metastasis, and drug resistance of OS. This study aimed to characterize cellular heterogeneity and molecular characterization in CAFs subtypes and explore the potential targeting therapeutic strategies to improve the prognosis of OS patients. METHODS The single-cell atlas of human OS tumor lesions were constructed from the GEO database. Then significant marker genes and potential biological functions for each CAFs subtype were identified and explored using the Seurat R package. Next, by performing the survival analyses and constructing the risk scores for CAFs subtypes, we aimed to identify and characterize the prognostic values of specific marker genes and different CAFs subtypes. Furthermore, we explored the therapeutic targets and innovative drugs targeting different CAFs subtypes based on the GDSC database. Finally, prognoses related CAFs subtypes were further validated through immunohistochemistry (IHC) on clinical OS specimens. RESULTS Overall, nine main cell clusters and five subtypes of CAFs were identified. The differentially expressed marker genes for each CAFs clusters were then identified. Moreover, through Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis, we defined the CAFs_2 (upregulated CXCL14 and C3), which was closely related to leukocyte migration and chemotaxis, as inflammatory CAFs (iCAFs). Likewise, we defined the CAFs_4 (upregulated CD74, HLA-DRA and HLA-DRB1), which was closely related to antigen process and presentation, as antigen-presenting CAFs (apCAFs). Furthermore, Kaplan-Meier analyses showed that CAFs_2 and CAFs_4 were correlated with poor clinical prognosis of OS patients. Meanwhile, therapeutic drugs targeting CAFs_2 and CAFs_4, such as 17-AAG/Docetaxel/Bleomycin and PHA-793887/NG-25/KIN001-102, were also explored, respectively. Finally, IHC assay confirmed the abundant CAFs_2 and CAFs_4 subtypes infiltration in the OS microenvironment compared with adjacent tissues. CONCLUSION Our study revealed the diversity, complexity, and heterogeneity of CAFs in OS, and complemented the single-cell atlas in OS TME.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuyang Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, 920th Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force, Kunming 650032, Yunnan, China; Chinese PLA Spinal Cord Injury Treatment Center, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, China
| | - Xinli Han
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin 300074, China
| | - Yuchen Han
- Senior Department of Orthopedics, the Fourth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100048, China; Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing 100853, China
| | - Jingyou Bi
- Senior Department of Orthopedics, the Fourth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100048, China
| | - Yanan Wu
- Senior Department of Orthopedics, the Fourth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100048, China
| | - Dongquan Xiang
- Senior Department of Orthopedics, the Fourth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100048, China
| | - Yinglong Zhang
- Senior Department of Orthopedics, the Fourth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100048, China
| | - Wenzhi Bi
- Senior Department of Orthopedics, the Fourth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100048, China; School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin 300074, China; Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing 100853, China
| | - Meng Xu
- Senior Department of Orthopedics, the Fourth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100048, China; Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing 100853, China.
| | - Jianxiong Li
- Senior Department of Orthopedics, the Fourth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100048, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Bugakova AS, Chudakova DA, Myzina MS, Yanysheva EP, Ozerskaya IV, Soboleva AV, Baklaushev VP, Yusubalieva GM. Non-Tumor Cells within the Tumor Microenvironment-The "Eminence Grise" of the Glioblastoma Pathogenesis and Potential Targets for Therapy. Cells 2024; 13:808. [PMID: 38786032 PMCID: PMC11119139 DOI: 10.3390/cells13100808] [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: 04/04/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common malignancy of the central nervous system in adults. GBM has high levels of therapy failure and its prognosis is usually dismal. The phenotypic heterogeneity of the tumor cells, dynamic complexity of non-tumor cell populations within the GBM tumor microenvironment (TME), and their bi-directional cross-talk contribute to the challenges of current therapeutic approaches. Herein, we discuss the etiology of GBM, and describe several major types of non-tumor cells within its TME, their impact on GBM pathogenesis, and molecular mechanisms of such an impact. We also discuss their value as potential therapeutic targets or prognostic biomarkers, with reference to the most recent works on this subject. We conclude that unless all "key player" populations of non-tumor cells within the TME are considered, no breakthrough in developing treatment for GBM can be achieved.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra S. Bugakova
- Federal Center for Brain and Neurotechnologies, Federal Medical and Biological Agency of Russia, 117513 Moscow, Russia
| | - Daria A. Chudakova
- Federal Center for Brain and Neurotechnologies, Federal Medical and Biological Agency of Russia, 117513 Moscow, Russia
| | - Maria S. Myzina
- Federal Center for Brain and Neurotechnologies, Federal Medical and Biological Agency of Russia, 117513 Moscow, Russia
| | - Elvira P. Yanysheva
- Federal Research and Clinical Center of Specialized Medical Care and Medical Technologies Federal Medical and Biological Agency of Russia, 115682 Moscow, Russia
| | - Iuliia V. Ozerskaya
- Pulmonology Research Institute, Federal Medical and Biological Agency of Russia, 115682 Moscow, Russia
| | - Alesya V. Soboleva
- Federal Center for Brain and Neurotechnologies, Federal Medical and Biological Agency of Russia, 117513 Moscow, Russia
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Vladimir P. Baklaushev
- Federal Center for Brain and Neurotechnologies, Federal Medical and Biological Agency of Russia, 117513 Moscow, Russia
- Federal Research and Clinical Center of Specialized Medical Care and Medical Technologies Federal Medical and Biological Agency of Russia, 115682 Moscow, Russia
- Pulmonology Research Institute, Federal Medical and Biological Agency of Russia, 115682 Moscow, Russia
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119991 Moscow, Russia
- Department of Medical Nanobiotechnology of Medical and Biological Faculty, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, 117997 Moscow, Russia
| | - Gaukhar M. Yusubalieva
- Federal Center for Brain and Neurotechnologies, Federal Medical and Biological Agency of Russia, 117513 Moscow, Russia
- Federal Research and Clinical Center of Specialized Medical Care and Medical Technologies Federal Medical and Biological Agency of Russia, 115682 Moscow, Russia
- Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119991 Moscow, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Tomizawa Y, Wali KH, Surti M, Suhail Y, Kshitiz, Hoshino K. Lightsheet microscopy integrates single-cell optical visco-elastography and fluorescence cytometry of 3D live tissues. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.20.590392. [PMID: 38766194 PMCID: PMC11100606 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.20.590392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Most common cytometry methods, including flow cytometry, observe suspended or fixed cells and cannot evaluate their structural roles in 3D tissues. However, cellular physical interactions are critical in physiological, developmental, and pathological processes. Here, we present a novel optical visco-elastography that characterizes single-cellular physical interactions by applying in-situ micro-mechanical perturbation to live microtissues under 3D lightsheet microscopy. The 4D digital image correlation (DIC) analysis of ~20,000 nodes tracked the compressive deformation of 3D tissues containing ~500 cells. The computational 3D image segmentation allowed cell-by-cell qualitative observation and statistical analysis, directly correlating multi-channel fluorescence and viscoelasticity. To represent epithelia-stroma interactions, we used a 3D organoid model of maternal-fetal interface and visualized solid-like, well-aligned displacement and liquid-like random motion between individual cells. The statistical analysis through our unique cytometry confirmed that endometrial stromal fibroblasts stiffen in response to decidualization. Moreover, we demonstrated in the 3D model that interaction with placental extravillous trophoblasts partially reverses the attained stiffness, which was supported by the gene expression analysis. Placentation shares critical cellular and molecular significance with various fundamental biological events such as cancer metastasis, wound healing, and gastrulation. Our analysis confirmed existing beliefs and discovered new insights, proving the broad applicability of our method.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuji Tomizawa
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Connecticut, CT
| | - Khadija H Wali
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Connecticut Health, Farmington, CT
| | - Manav Surti
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Connecticut, CT
| | - Yasir Suhail
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Connecticut Health, Farmington, CT
| | - Kshitiz
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Connecticut Health, Farmington, CT
- Systems Biology Institute, Yale University, West Haven, CT
| | - Kazunori Hoshino
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Connecticut, CT
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Rizvi SFA, Zhang H, Fang Q. Engineering peptide drug therapeutics through chemical conjugation and implication in clinics. Med Res Rev 2024. [PMID: 38704826 DOI: 10.1002/med.22046] [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: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
The development of peptide drugs has made tremendous progress in the past few decades because of the advancements in modification chemistry and analytical technologies. The novel-designed peptide drugs have been modified through various biochemical methods with improved diagnostic, therapeutic, and drug-delivery strategies. Researchers found it a helping hand to overcome the inherent limitations of peptides and bring continued advancements in their applications. Furthermore, the emergence of peptide-drug conjugates (PDCs)-utilizes target-oriented peptide moieties as a vehicle for cytotoxic payloads via conjugation with cleavable chemical agents, resulting in the key foundation of the new era of targeted peptide drugs. This review summarizes the various classifications of peptide drugs, suitable chemical modification strategies to improve the ADME (adsorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion) features of peptide drugs, and recent (2015-early 2024) progress/achievements in peptide-based drug delivery systems as well as their fruitful implication in preclinical and clinical studies. Furthermore, we also summarized the brief description of other types of PDCs, including peptide-MOF conjugates and peptide-UCNP conjugates. The principal aim is to provide scattered and diversified knowledge in one place and to help researchers understand the pinching knots in the science of PDC development and progress toward a bright future of novel peptide drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Syed Faheem Askari Rizvi
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
- Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, Institute of Pathology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Haixia Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Quan Fang
- Key Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, Institute of Pathology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Wu J, Chen J, Ge Y, Huang N, Luo Y. Neuroprotective effect of tanshinone IIA-modified mesenchymal stem cells in a lipopolysaccharide-induced neuroinflammation model. Heliyon 2024; 10:e29424. [PMID: 38638958 PMCID: PMC11024610 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e29424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
In this study, the neuroprotective potential of tanshinone IIA (TIIA)-modified mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) were investigated using a murine model of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced neuroinflammation. The cognitive performance of the mice was assessed using the Y-maze and Morris water maze tests, while immunofluorescence and Western blot analyses were employed to evaluate the hippocampal expression of pertinent markers and inflammatory factors, respectively. The results from the behavioral experiments demonstrated discernible differences in learning and memory abilities between the model group and the control group (P < 0.05), confirming the successful induction of neuroinflammation. Both the MSC and TIIA-MSC groups exhibited enhancements in the cognitive abilities of neuroinflammatory mice, with the TIIA-MSC group demonstrating a more pronounced improvement (P < 0.01). Immunofluorescence analysis revealed significant activation of microglia in the model group, while the MSC and TIIA-MSC groups exhibited a reduction in hippocampal microglial activation, with the TIIA-MSC group displaying a more substantial decrease. A statistically significant difference in the expression levels of IL-1, IL-6, and TNF-α was observed between the model and control groups (P < 0.05), indicating that IL-1, IL-6, and TNF-α were downregulated in both the MSC and TIIA-MSC groups. Notably, the downregulatory effect was more prominent in the TIIA-MSC group (P < 0.01). Compared to MSC treatment alone, the administration of TIIA-modified MSC demonstrated a superior protective effect against lipopolysaccharide-induced neuroinflammation. These findings underscore the potential therapeutic efficacy of TIIA-modified MSC in mitigating neuroinflammatory responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Wu
- Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
- Department of Neurology, Third Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University (The First People's Hospital of Zunyi), Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Jian Chen
- Department of Neurology, Third Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University (The First People's Hospital of Zunyi), Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Ying Ge
- Department of Neurology, Third Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University (The First People's Hospital of Zunyi), Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Nanqu Huang
- National Drug Clinical Trial Institution, Third Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University (The First People's Hospital of Zunyi), Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Yong Luo
- Department of Neurology, Third Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University (The First People's Hospital of Zunyi), Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Stewart R, Sharma S, Wu T, Okuda S, Xie G, Zhou XZ, Shilton B, Lu KP. The role of the master cancer regulator Pin1 in the development and treatment of cancer. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1343938. [PMID: 38745861 PMCID: PMC11091292 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1343938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
This review examines the complex role of Pin1 in the development and treatment of cancer. Pin1 is the only peptidyl-prolyl isomerase (PPIase) that can recognize and isomerize phosphorylated Ser/Thr-Pro peptide bonds. Pin1 catalyzes a structural change in phosphorylated Ser/Thr-Pro motifs that can modulate protein function and thereby impact cell cycle regulation and tumorigenesis. The molecular mechanisms by which Pin1 contributes to oncogenesis are reviewed, including Pin1 overexpression and its correlation with poor cancer prognosis, and the contribution of Pin1 to aggressive tumor phenotypes involved in therapeutic resistance is discussed, with an emphasis on cancer stem cells, the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and immunosuppression. The therapeutic potential of Pin1 inhibition in cancer is discussed, along with the promise and the difficulties in identifying potent, drug-like, small-molecule Pin1 inhibitors. The available evidence supports the efficacy of targeting Pin1 as a novel cancer therapeutic by analyzing the role of Pin1 in a complex network of cancer-driving pathways and illustrating the potential of synergistic drug combinations with Pin1 inhibitors for treating aggressive and drug-resistant tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert Stewart
- Department of Biochemistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Shaunik Sharma
- Department of Biochemistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Timothy Wu
- Department of Biochemistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Sho Okuda
- Department of Biochemistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - George Xie
- Department of Biochemistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Xiao Zhen Zhou
- Department of Biochemistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Robarts Research Institute, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Brian Shilton
- Department of Biochemistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Kun Ping Lu
- Department of Biochemistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Robarts Research Institute, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
- Department of Oncology, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Gonzalez‐Molina J, Hahn P, Falcão RM, Gultekin O, Kokaraki G, Zanfagnin V, Braz Petta T, Lehti K, Carlson JW. MMP14 expression and collagen remodelling support uterine leiomyosarcoma aggressiveness. Mol Oncol 2024; 18:850-865. [PMID: 37078535 PMCID: PMC10994236 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.13440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrillar collagen deposition, stiffness and downstream signalling support the development of leiomyomas (LMs), common benign mesenchymal tumours of the uterus, and are associated with aggressiveness in multiple carcinomas. Compared with epithelial carcinomas, however, the impact of fibrillar collagens on malignant mesenchymal tumours, including uterine leiomyosarcoma (uLMS), remains elusive. In this study, we analyse the network morphology and density of fibrillar collagens combined with the gene expression within uLMS, LM and normal myometrium (MM). We find that, in contrast to LM, uLMS tumours present low collagen density and increased expression of collagen-remodelling genes, features associated with tumour aggressiveness. Using collagen-based 3D matrices, we show that matrix metalloproteinase-14 (MMP14), a central protein with collagen-remodelling functions that is particularly overexpressed in uLMS, supports uLMS cell proliferation. In addition, we find that, unlike MM and LM cells, uLMS proliferation and migration are less sensitive to changes in collagen substrate stiffness. We demonstrate that uLMS cell growth in low-stiffness substrates is sustained by an enhanced basal yes-associated protein 1 (YAP) activity. Altogether, our results indicate that uLMS cells acquire increased collagen remodelling capabilities and are adapted to grow and migrate in low collagen and soft microenvironments. These results further suggest that matrix remodelling and YAP are potential therapeutic targets for this deadly disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jordi Gonzalez‐Molina
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell BiologyKarolinska InstitutetStockholmSweden
- Department of Oncology‐PathologyKarolinska InstitutetStockholmSweden
| | - Paula Hahn
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell BiologyKarolinska InstitutetStockholmSweden
| | - Raul Maia Falcão
- Keck School of MedicineUniversity of Southern CaliforniaLos AngelesCAUSA
- Department of Cellular Biology and GeneticsFederal University of Rio Grande do NorteNatalBrazil
| | - Okan Gultekin
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell BiologyKarolinska InstitutetStockholmSweden
| | - Georgia Kokaraki
- Department of Oncology‐PathologyKarolinska InstitutetStockholmSweden
- Keck School of MedicineUniversity of Southern CaliforniaLos AngelesCAUSA
| | | | - Tirzah Braz Petta
- Keck School of MedicineUniversity of Southern CaliforniaLos AngelesCAUSA
- Department of Cellular Biology and GeneticsFederal University of Rio Grande do NorteNatalBrazil
| | - Kaisa Lehti
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell BiologyKarolinska InstitutetStockholmSweden
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory ScienceNorwegian University of Science and TechnologyTrondheimNorway
| | - Joseph W. Carlson
- Department of Oncology‐PathologyKarolinska InstitutetStockholmSweden
- Keck School of MedicineUniversity of Southern CaliforniaLos AngelesCAUSA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Feng Y, Qiao S, Chen J, Wen X, Chen Y, Song X, Xu J, Qiao X, Yang J, Zhang S, Feng Y, Gao Y. M2-Type Macrophages and Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts Combine to Promote Colorectal Cancer Liver Metastases. Onco Targets Ther 2024; 17:243-260. [PMID: 38558848 PMCID: PMC10981424 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s447502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose This research explored the association between CD163-labeled M2-type macrophages and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in the tumor microenvironment (TME) of 38 colorectal cancer (CRC) liver metastases. In addition, we investigated the correlation differences between M2-type macrophages and CAFs in the tumor microenvironments of 38 primary colorectal cancer patients with confirmed liver metastases and 946 colorectal cancer patients, as well as possible mechanisms of action between the two cells. Methods The Immunohistochemistry (IHC) method was applied to detect the expression levels of M2-type macrophages and CAFs in the tissues of 984 cases of CRC and to analyze the correlation between M2-type macrophages and CAFs in colorectal cancer tissues. The IHC method was also applied to detect the expression levels of M2-type macrophages and CAFs in the liver metastases of 38 cases of CRC in the experimental group and to analyze the correlation between the two cells in liver metastases. Results 1. M2-type macrophages and CAFs expression were significantly higher in 38 primary colorectal cancer patients compared to 946 controls, and the expression of M2-type macrophages was significantly positively correlated with CAFs. 2. In 984 CRC cases, M2-type macrophages and CAFs expression levels were significantly higher in the cancer tissues than in the paired paracancerous tissues. 3. The expression levels of M2-type macrophages and CAFs in primary colorectal cancer were significantly higher in the experimental group than in colorectal cancer tissues without distant metastasis. Conclusion M2-type macrophages and CAFs are involved in the development of the colorectal cancer tumor microenvironment, and their interaction influences the initiation and progression of liver metastasis in colorectal cancer. It may provide new clinical ideas for early diagnosis of CRC liver metastases and searching for immune targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yunpeng Feng
- The Second Ward of Colorectal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning, 12100, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shifeng Qiao
- The Second Ward of Colorectal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning, 12100, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jie Chen
- The Second Ward of Colorectal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning, 12100, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xin Wen
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning, 12100, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yanlei Chen
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaoyu Song
- The Second Ward of Colorectal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning, 12100, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jiaxin Xu
- The Second Ward of Colorectal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning, 12100, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiucheng Qiao
- The Second Ward of Colorectal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning, 12100, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jing Yang
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning, 12100, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shenshen Zhang
- The Second Ward of Colorectal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning, 12100, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yang Feng
- The Second Ward of Colorectal Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning, 12100, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yu Gao
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou, Liaoning, 12100, People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Guo S, Wang Z. Unveiling the immunosuppressive landscape of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma: implications for innovative immunotherapy strategies. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1349308. [PMID: 38590651 PMCID: PMC10999533 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1349308] [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: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer, particularly pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), stands as the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, marked by challenging treatment and dismal prognoses. As immunotherapy emerges as a promising avenue for mitigating PDAC's malignant progression, a comprehensive understanding of the tumor's immunosuppressive characteristics becomes imperative. This paper systematically delves into the intricate immunosuppressive network within PDAC, spotlighting the significant crosstalk between immunosuppressive cells and factors in the hypoxic acidic pancreatic tumor microenvironment. By elucidating these mechanisms, we aim to provide insights into potential immunotherapy strategies and treatment targets, laying the groundwork for future studies on PDAC immunosuppression. Recognizing the profound impact of immunosuppression on PDAC invasion and metastasis, this discussion aims to catalyze the development of more effective and targeted immunotherapies for PDAC patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Songyu Guo
- First Clinical Medical College, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
- Department of Hepatic-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Zhenxia Wang
- Department of Hepatic-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Zheng J, Chen J, Wang S, Yang D, Zhou P. Genomic and immune landscape in hepatocellular carcinoma: Implications for personalized therapeutics. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2024; 39:1601-1616. [PMID: 38009667 DOI: 10.1002/tox.24062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a globally prevalent malignancy, marked by genetic heterogeneity and intricate tumor microenvironment interactions. In this study, we undertook a detailed single-cell analysis of six active HCC patients, highlighting strong correlations between gene expression levels and cellular characteristics. UMAP clustering revealed seven distinct cell categories with associated gene expressions. A divergence was observed in tumor cells into high and low cuproptosis groups, each associated with distinct pathways: oxidative stress for the high cuproptosis group and inflammatory and angiogenesis pathways for the low group. CellChat analysis on the TCGA-LIHC cohort displayed unique intercellular interactions among hepatocytes, T cells, and other cells, with pathways like COLLAGEN and VEGF being pivotal. Functional enrichment analyses exposed pathways enriched between cuproptosis groups, with KEGG emphasizing diseases like Parkinson's. COX survival analysis identified key prognostic genes, revealing distinct survival rates between risk groups in TCGA and GSE14520 cohorts. Mutation data highlighted missense mutations, with TTN, TP53, and CTNNB1 being the most mutated in HCC. Immune infiltration analysis via CIBERSORTx indicated differences between risk groups in NK cells, neutrophils, and other cells. Our drug sensitivity investigation showed significant correlations between model genes and drug responsiveness, emphasizing the importance of patient risk stratification for therapeutic approaches. Further, ATP6V1G1 was recognized in its role in apoptosis and migration in HCC cells. In conclusion, our findings illuminate the complexities of HCC progression, potential predictive genetic markers for drug response, and the pivotal role of ATP6V1G1, suggesting avenues for targeted therapeutic strategies in HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiaoyun Zheng
- Department of Pathology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Hunan Clinical Medical Research Center for Cancer Pathogenic Genes Testing and Diagnosis, Hunan, Changsha, China
| | - Junyan Chen
- The Third Clinical Department, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Shuchao Wang
- Center for Medical Research, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Dun Yang
- Department of Pathology, Taoyuan People's Hospital, Changde, Hunan, China
| | - Peng Zhou
- Department of Pathology, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Hunan Clinical Medical Research Center for Cancer Pathogenic Genes Testing and Diagnosis, Hunan, Changsha, China
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Li C, Wang Z, Zhang Y, Zhu Y, Xu M, Lei H, Zhang D. Efficient Sequential Co-Delivery Nanosystem for Inhibition of Tumor and Tumor-Associated Fibroblast-Induced Resistance and Metastasis. Int J Nanomedicine 2024; 19:1749-1766. [PMID: 38414527 PMCID: PMC10898601 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s427783] [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: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most lethal subtype of breast cancer. However, the effect of current treatment strategies by inducing tumor cell apoptosis alone is not satisfactory. The growth, metastasis and treatment sensitivity of tumors can be strongly influenced by cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in the microenvironment. Effective cancer therapies may need to target not only the tumor cells directly but also the CAFs that protect them. Methods Celastrol and small-sized micelles containing betulinic acid were co-encapsulated into liposomes using the thin-film hydration method (CL@BM). Folic acid was further introduced to modify liposomes as the targeting moiety (F/CL@BM). We established a novel NIH3T3+4T1 co-culture model to mimic the tumor microenvironment and assessed the nanocarrier's inhibitory effects on CAFs-induced drug resistance and migration in the co-culture model. The in vivo biological distribution, fluorescence imaging, biological safety evaluation, and combined therapeutic effect evaluation of the nanocarrier were carried out based on a triple-negative breast cancer model. Results In the present study, a novel multifunctional nano-formulation was designed by combining the advantages of sequential release, co-loading of tretinoin and betulinic acid, and folic acid-mediated active targeting. As expected, the nano-formulation exhibited enhanced cytotoxicity in different cellular models and effectively increased drug accumulation at the tumor site by disrupting the cellular barrier composed of CAFs by tretinoin. Notably, the co-loaded nano-formulations proved to be more potent in inhibiting tumor growth in mice and also showed better anti-metastatic effects in lung metastasis models compared to the formulations with either drug alone. This novel drug delivery system has the potential to be used to develop more effective cancer therapies. Conclusion Targeting CAFs with celastrol sensitizes tumor cells to chemotherapy, increasing the efficacy of betulinic acid. The combination of drugs targeting tumor cells and CAFs may lead to more effective therapies against various cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chunhong Li
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, 646000, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhen Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, 646000, People's Republic of China
| | - Yifeng Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, 646000, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuqing Zhu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, 646000, People's Republic of China
| | - Maochang Xu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, 646000, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui Lei
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, 646000, People's Republic of China
| | - Dan Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, 646000, People's Republic of China
- Green Pharmaceutical Technology Key Laboratory of Luzhou, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646000, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Rizvi SF, Zhang L, Zhang H, Fang Q. Peptide-Drug Conjugates: Design, Chemistry, and Drug Delivery System as a Novel Cancer Theranostic. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2024; 7:309-334. [PMID: 38357281 PMCID: PMC10863443 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.3c00269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
The emergence of peptide-drug conjugates (PDCs) that utilize target-oriented peptide moieties as carriers of cytotoxic payloads, interconnected with various cleavable/noncleavable linkers, resulted in the key-foundation of the new era of targeted therapeutics. They are capable of retaining the integrity of conjugates in the blood circulatory system as well as releasing the drugs at the tumor microenvironment. Other valuable advantages are specificity and selectivity toward targeted-receptors, higher penetration ability, and drug-loading capacity, making them a suitable candidate to play their vital role as promising carrier agents. In this review, we summarized the types of cell-targeting (CTPs) and cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) that have broad applications in the advancement of targeted drug-delivery systems (DDS). Moreover, the techniques to overcome the limitations of peptide-chemistry for their extensive implementation to construct the PDCs. Besides this, the diversified breakthrough of linker chemistry, and ample knowledge of various cytotoxic payloads used in PDCs in recent years, as well as the mechanism of action of PDCs was critically discussed. The principal aim is to provide scattered and diversified knowledge in one place and to help researchers understand the pinching knots in the science of PDC development, also their progression toward a bright future for PDCs as novel theranostics in clinical practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Syed Faheem
Askari Rizvi
- Key
Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, and
Institute of Pathology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu P.R. China
- State
Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry
and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu P.R. China
- Institute
of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IMBB), The University of Lahore, Lahore, 54000, Punjab Pakistan
| | - Linjie Zhang
- State
Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry
and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu P.R. China
| | - Haixia Zhang
- State
Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry
and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu P.R. China
| | - Quan Fang
- Key
Laboratory of Preclinical Study for New Drugs of Gansu Province, and
Institute of Pathology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Kumar MA, Baba SK, Sadida HQ, Marzooqi SA, Jerobin J, Altemani FH, Algehainy N, Alanazi MA, Abou-Samra AB, Kumar R, Al-Shabeeb Akil AS, Macha MA, Mir R, Bhat AA. Extracellular vesicles as tools and targets in therapy for diseases. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:27. [PMID: 38311623 PMCID: PMC10838959 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01735-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are nano-sized, membranous structures secreted into the extracellular space. They exhibit diverse sizes, contents, and surface markers and are ubiquitously released from cells under normal and pathological conditions. Human serum is a rich source of these EVs, though their isolation from serum proteins and non-EV lipid particles poses challenges. These vesicles transport various cellular components such as proteins, mRNAs, miRNAs, DNA, and lipids across distances, influencing numerous physiological and pathological events, including those within the tumor microenvironment (TME). Their pivotal roles in cellular communication make EVs promising candidates for therapeutic agents, drug delivery systems, and disease biomarkers. Especially in cancer diagnostics, EV detection can pave the way for early identification and offers potential as diagnostic biomarkers. Moreover, various EV subtypes are emerging as targeted drug delivery tools, highlighting their potential clinical significance. The need for non-invasive biomarkers to monitor biological processes for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes remains unfulfilled. Tapping into the unique composition of EVs could unlock advanced diagnostic and therapeutic avenues in the future. In this review, we discuss in detail the roles of EVs across various conditions, including cancers (encompassing head and neck, lung, gastric, breast, and hepatocellular carcinoma), neurodegenerative disorders, diabetes, viral infections, autoimmune and renal diseases, emphasizing the potential advancements in molecular diagnostics and drug delivery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mudasir A Kumar
- Watson-Crick Centre for Molecular Medicine, Islamic University of Science and Technology, Awantipora, Kashmir, 192122, India
| | - Sadaf K Baba
- Watson-Crick Centre for Molecular Medicine, Islamic University of Science and Technology, Awantipora, Kashmir, 192122, India
| | - Hana Q Sadida
- Department of Human Genetics-Precision Medicine in Diabetes, Obesity and Cancer Program, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
| | - Sara Al Marzooqi
- Department of Human Genetics-Precision Medicine in Diabetes, Obesity and Cancer Program, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
| | - Jayakumar Jerobin
- Qatar Metabolic Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Faisal H Altemani
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Prince Fahad Bin Sultan Chair for Biomedical Research, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Tabuk, Tabuk, Saudi Arabia
| | - Naseh Algehainy
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Prince Fahad Bin Sultan Chair for Biomedical Research, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Tabuk, Tabuk, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammad A Alanazi
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Prince Fahad Bin Sultan Chair for Biomedical Research, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Tabuk, Tabuk, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdul-Badi Abou-Samra
- Qatar Metabolic Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Rakesh Kumar
- School of Biotechnology, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University, Katra, India
| | - Ammira S Al-Shabeeb Akil
- Department of Human Genetics-Precision Medicine in Diabetes, Obesity and Cancer Program, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
| | - Muzafar A Macha
- Watson-Crick Centre for Molecular Medicine, Islamic University of Science and Technology, Awantipora, Kashmir, 192122, India
| | - Rashid Mir
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Prince Fahad Bin Sultan Chair for Biomedical Research, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Tabuk, Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Ajaz A Bhat
- Department of Human Genetics-Precision Medicine in Diabetes, Obesity and Cancer Program, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Zhang X, Zhang M, Sun H, Wang X, Wang X, Sheng W, Xu M. The role of transcription factors in the crosstalk between cancer-associated fibroblasts and tumor cells. J Adv Res 2024:S2090-1232(24)00046-8. [PMID: 38309692 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2024.01.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transcription factors (TFs) fulfill a critical role in the formation and maintenance of different cell types during the developmental process as well as disease. It is believed that cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are activation status of tissue-resident fibroblasts or derived from form other cell types via transdifferentiation or dedifferentiation. Despite a subgroup of CAFs exhibit anti-cancer effects, most of them are reported to exert effects on tumor progression, further indicating their heterogeneous origin. AIM OF REVIEW This review aimed to summarize and review the roles of TFs in the reciprocal crosstalk between CAFs and tumor cells, discuss the emerging mechanisms, and their roles in cell-fate decision, cellular reprogramming and advancing our understanding of the gene regulatory networks over the period of cancer initiation and progression. KEY SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS OF REVIEW This manuscript delves into the key contributory factors of TFs that are involved in activating CAFs and maintaining their unique states. Additionally, it explores how TFs play a pivotal and multifaceted role in the reciprocal crosstalk between CAFs and tumor cells. This includes their involvement in processes such as epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), proliferation, invasion, and metastasis, as well as metabolic reprogramming. TFs also have a role in constructing an immunosuppressive microenvironment, inducing resistance to radiation and chemotherapy, facilitating angiogenesis, and even 'educating' CAFs to support the malignancies of tumor cells. Furthermore, this manuscript delves into the current status of TF-targeted therapy and considers the future directions of TFs in conjunction with anti-CAFs therapies to address the challenges in clinical cancer treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Institute of Pathology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Meng Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Institute of Pathology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Hui Sun
- Department of Pathology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Institute of Pathology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Xu Wang
- Department of Pathology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Institute of Pathology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Pathology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Institute of Pathology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Weiqi Sheng
- Department of Pathology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Institute of Pathology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
| | - Midie Xu
- Department of Pathology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Institute of Pathology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Ghosh A, Mitra AK. Metastasis and cancer associated fibroblasts: taking it up a NOTCH. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 11:1277076. [PMID: 38269089 PMCID: PMC10806909 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1277076] [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: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Metastasis is the least understood aspect of cancer biology. 90% of cancer related deaths occur due extensive metastatic burden in patients. Apart from metastasizing cancer cells, the pro-tumorigenic and pro-metastatic role of the tumor stroma plays a crucial part in this complex process often leading to disease relapse and therapy resistance. Cellular signaling processes play a crucial role in the process of tumorigenesis and metastasis when aberrantly turned on, not just in the cancer cells, but also in the cells of the tumor microenvironment (TME). One of the most conserved pathways includes the Notch signaling pathway that plays a crucial role in the development and progression of many cancers. In addition to its well documented role in cancer cells, recent evidence suggests crucial involvement of Notch signaling in the stroma as well. This review aims to highlight the current findings focusing on the oncogenic role of notch signaling in cancer cells and the TME, with a specific focus on cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs), which constitute a major part of the tumor stroma and are important for tumor progression. Recent efforts have focused on the development of anti-cancer and anti-metastatic therapies targeting TME. Understanding the importance of Notch signaling in the TME would help identify important drivers for stromal reprogramming, metastasis and importantly, drive future research in the effort to develop TME-targeted therapies utilizing Notch.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Argha Ghosh
- Indiana University School of Medicine-Bloomington, Bloomington, IN, United States
- Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Anirban K. Mitra
- Indiana University School of Medicine-Bloomington, Bloomington, IN, United States
- Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indianapolis, IN, United States
- Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Zhu S, Kubota N, Wang S, Wang T, Xiao G, Hoshida Y. Single-cell level deconvolution, convolution, and clustering in spatial transcriptomics by aligning spot level transcriptome to nuclear morphology. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.12.17.572084. [PMID: 38187541 PMCID: PMC10769305 DOI: 10.1101/2023.12.17.572084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
In spot-based spatial transcriptomics, spots that are of the same size and printed at the fixed location cannot precisely capture the actual randomly located single cells, therefore failing to profile the transcriptome at the single-cell level. The current studies primarily focused on enhancing the spot resolution in size via computational imputation or technical improvement, however, they largely overlooked that single-cell resolution, i.e., resolution in cellular or even smaller size, does not equal single-cell level. Using both real and simulated spatial transcriptomics data, we demonstrated that even the high-resolution spatial transcriptomics still has a large number of spots partially covering multiple cells simultaneously, revealing the intrinsic non-single-cell level of spot-based spatial transcriptomics regardless of spot size. To this end, we present STIE, an EM algorithm that aligns the spatial transcriptome to its matched histology image-based nuclear morphology and recovers missing cells from up to ~70% gap area between spots via the nuclear morphological similarity and neighborhood information, thereby achieving the real single-cell level and whole-slide scale deconvolution/convolution and clustering for both low- and high-resolution spots. On both real and simulation spatial transcriptomics data, STIE characterizes the cell-type specific gene expression variation and demonstrates the outperforming concordance with the single-cell RNAseq-derived cell type transcriptomic signatures compared to the other spot- and subspot-level methods. Furthermore, STIE enabled us to gain novel insights that failed to be revealed by the existing methods due to the lack of single-cell level, for instance, lower actual spot resolution than its reported spot size, the additional contribution of cellular morphology to cell typing beyond transcriptome, unbiased evaluation of cell type colocalization, superior power of high-resolution spot in distinguishing nuanced cell types, and spatially resolved cell-cell interactions at the single-cell level other than spot level. The STIE code is publicly available as an R package at https://github.com/zhushijia/STIE.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shijia Zhu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Naoto Kubota
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Shidan Wang
- Quantitative Biomedical Research Center, Department of Population and Data Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Tao Wang
- Quantitative Biomedical Research Center, Department of Population and Data Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Guanghua Xiao
- Quantitative Biomedical Research Center, Department of Population and Data Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Yujin Hoshida
- Division of Digestive and Liver Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Obreque J, Vergara-Gómez L, Venegas N, Weber H, Owen GI, Pérez-Moreno P, Leal P, Roa JC, Bizama C. Advances towards the use of gastrointestinal tumor patient-derived organoids as a therapeutic decision-making tool. Biol Res 2023; 56:63. [PMID: 38041132 PMCID: PMC10693174 DOI: 10.1186/s40659-023-00476-9] [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: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023] Open
Abstract
In December 2022 the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) removed the requirement that drugs in development must undergo animal testing before clinical evaluation, a declaration that now demands the establishment and verification of ex vivo preclinical models that closely represent tumor complexity and that can predict therapeutic response. Fortunately, the emergence of patient-derived organoid (PDOs) culture has enabled the ex vivo mimicking of the pathophysiology of human tumors with the reassembly of tissue-specific features. These features include histopathological variability, molecular expression profiles, genetic and cellular heterogeneity of parental tissue, and furthermore growing evidence suggests the ability to predict patient therapeutic response. Concentrating on the highly lethal and heterogeneous gastrointestinal (GI) tumors, herein we present the state-of-the-art and the current methodology of PDOs. We highlight the potential additions, improvements and testing required to allow the ex vivo of study the tumor microenvironment, as well as offering commentary on the predictive value of clinical response to treatments such as chemotherapy and immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Javiera Obreque
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Diagonal Paraguay 362, Office 526, 8330024, Santiago, Chile
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, 8331150, Santiago, Chile
- Centro de Prevención y Control de Cáncer (CECAN), Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Luis Vergara-Gómez
- Centre of Excellence in Translational Medicine (CEMT) and Scientific and Technological Bioresource Nucleus (BIOREN), Biomedicine and Translational Research Lab, Universidad de La Frontera, 4810296, Temuco, Chile
| | - Nicolás Venegas
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Diagonal Paraguay 362, Office 526, 8330024, Santiago, Chile
| | - Helga Weber
- Centre of Excellence in Translational Medicine (CEMT) and Scientific and Technological Bioresource Nucleus (BIOREN), Biomedicine and Translational Research Lab, Universidad de La Frontera, 4810296, Temuco, Chile
| | - Gareth I Owen
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, 8331150, Santiago, Chile
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, 8331150, Santiago, Chile
- Advanced Center for Chronic Diseases, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Centro de Prevención y Control de Cáncer (CECAN), Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Pablo Pérez-Moreno
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Diagonal Paraguay 362, Office 526, 8330024, Santiago, Chile
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, 8331150, Santiago, Chile
| | - Pamela Leal
- Centre of Excellence in Translational Medicine (CEMT) and Scientific and Technological Bioresource Nucleus (BIOREN), Biomedicine and Translational Research Lab, Universidad de La Frontera, 4810296, Temuco, Chile
| | - Juan Carlos Roa
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Diagonal Paraguay 362, Office 526, 8330024, Santiago, Chile
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, 8331150, Santiago, Chile
- Centro de Prevención y Control de Cáncer (CECAN), Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Carolina Bizama
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Diagonal Paraguay 362, Office 526, 8330024, Santiago, Chile.
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, 8331150, Santiago, Chile.
- Advanced Center for Chronic Diseases, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile.
- Centro de Prevención y Control de Cáncer (CECAN), Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Deng H, Shu X, Wang Y, Zhang J, Yin Y, Wu F, He J. Matrix Stiffness Regulated Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress-mediated Apoptosis of Osteosarcoma Cell through Ras Signal Cascades. Cell Biochem Biophys 2023; 81:839-850. [PMID: 37789235 DOI: 10.1007/s12013-023-01184-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
The modulating effects of matrix stiffness on spreading and apoptosis of tumor cells have been well recognized. Nevertheless, the detail road map leading to the apoptosis and the underlying mechanisms governing the cell apoptosis have remained to be elucidated. To this aim, we provided a tunable elastic hydrogel matrix that promoted cell adhesion by modifying the surface of polyacrylamide with polydopamine, with stiffness value of 1, 10, 30, and 250 kPa, respectively. While the cell spreading increased and the apoptosis decreased with the matrix stiffness, such modulating effect of matrix on cell spreading exhibited different time evolvement behaviors as a function of stiffness, which likely led to surprisingly similar apoptosis rates for the 30 kPa and 250 kPa samples. Matrix stiffness mediated the spreading and apoptosis of MG-63 cells by regulating cell adhesion to matrix and in particular cytoskeletal organization, which was dependent on Ras, Rap1 and PI3K-Akt signaling pathways and finally led to the apoptosis of cancer cells dominated by endoplasmic reticulum stress pathway. Our results provided an insight into the regulation of tumor cell fate by the mechanical clues of ECM, which would have implication for future cancer research and the design of novel anticancer materials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huan Deng
- National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610064, PR China
| | - Xuedong Shu
- National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610064, PR China
| | - Yao Wang
- National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610064, PR China
| | - Junwei Zhang
- National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610064, PR China
| | - Yue Yin
- National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610064, PR China
| | - Fang Wu
- National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610064, PR China
| | - Jing He
- National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610064, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Zeltz C, Kusche-Gullberg M, Heljasvaara R, Gullberg D. Novel roles for cooperating collagen receptor families in fibrotic niches. Curr Opin Cell Biol 2023; 85:102273. [PMID: 37918273 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceb.2023.102273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Recent data indicate that integrin and non-integrin collagen receptors cooperate in the fibrosis-specific microenvironment (i.e., the fibrotic niche). In certain tumor types, DDR1 can regulate the interaction with collagen III to regulate dormancy and metastasis, whereas in other tumor types, DDR1 can be shed and used to reorganize collagen. DDR1 expressed on tumor cells, together with DDR2 and α11β1 integrin expressed on cancer-associated fibroblasts, can increase tumor tissue stiffness. Integrin α1β1 and α2β1 are present on immune cells where they together with the immunosuppressive collagen receptor LAIR-1 can mediate binding to intratumor collagens. In summary, collagen-binding integrins together with DDRs, can create fibrillar collagen niches that act as traps to hinder immune cell trafficking into the tumor cell mass. Binding of collagens via LAIR-1 on immune cells in turn results in CD8+T-cell exhaustion. Continued studies of these complex interactions are needed for successful new stroma-based therapeutic interventions. In the current review, we will summarize recent data on collagen receptors with a special focus on their potential role in tumor fibrosis and highlight their collaborative roles in tumor fibrotic niches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cédric Zeltz
- Department of Biomedicine and Centre for Cancer Biomarkers, University of Bergen, 5009 Bergen, Norway
| | - Marion Kusche-Gullberg
- Department of Biomedicine and Centre for Cancer Biomarkers, University of Bergen, 5009 Bergen, Norway
| | - Ritva Heljasvaara
- ECM-Hypoxia Research Unit, Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Donald Gullberg
- Department of Biomedicine and Centre for Cancer Biomarkers, University of Bergen, 5009 Bergen, Norway.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Almeida SFF, Santos L, Sampaio-Ribeiro G, Ferreira HRS, Lima N, Caetano R, Abreu M, Zuzarte M, Ribeiro AS, Paiva A, Martins-Marques T, Teixeira P, Almeida R, Casanova JM, Girão H, Abrunhosa AJ, Gomes CM. Unveiling the role of osteosarcoma-derived secretome in premetastatic lung remodelling. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2023; 42:328. [PMID: 38031171 PMCID: PMC10688015 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-023-02886-9] [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: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lung metastasis is the most adverse clinical factor and remains the leading cause of osteosarcoma-related death. Deciphering the mechanisms driving metastatic spread is crucial for finding open therapeutic windows for successful organ-specific interventions that may halt or prevent lung metastasis. METHODS We employed a mouse premetastatic lung-based multi-omics integrative approach combined with clinical features to uncover the specific changes that precede lung metastasis formation and identify novel molecular targets and biomarker of clinical utility that enable the design of novel therapeutic strategies. RESULTS We found that osteosarcoma-bearing mice or those preconditioned with the osteosarcoma cell secretome harbour profound lung structural alterations with airway damage, inflammation, neutrophil infiltration, and extracellular matrix remodelling with increased deposition of fibronectin and collagens by resident stromal activated fibroblasts, favouring the adhesion of disseminated tumour cells. Systemic-induced microenvironmental changes, supported by transcriptomic and histological data, promoted and accelerated lung metastasis formation. Comparative proteome profiling of the cell secretome and mouse plasma identified a large number of proteins involved in extracellular-matrix organization, cell-matrix adhesion, neutrophil degranulation, and cytokine-mediated signalling, consistent with the observed lung microenvironmental changes. Moreover, we identified EFEMP1, an extracellular matrix glycoprotein exclusively secreted by metastatic cells, in the plasma of mice bearing a primary tumour and in biopsy specimens from osteosarcoma patients with poorer overall survival. Depletion of EFEMP1 from the secretome prevents the formation of lung metastasis. CONCLUSIONS Integration of our data uncovers neutrophil infiltration and the functional contribution of stromal-activated fibroblasts in ECM remodelling for tumour cell attachment as early pro-metastatic events, which may hold therapeutic potential in preventing or slowing the metastatic spread. Moreover, we identified EFEMP1, a secreted glycoprotein, as a metastatic driver and a potential candidate prognostic biomarker for lung metastasis in osteosarcoma patients. Osteosarcoma-derived secreted factors systemically reprogrammed the lung microenvironment and fostered a growth-permissive niche for incoming disseminated cells to survive and outgrow into overt metastasis. Daily administration of osteosarcoma cell secretome mimics the systemic release of tumour-secreted factors of a growing tumour in mice during PMN formation; Transcriptomic and histological analysis of premetastatic lungs revealed inflammatory-induced stromal fibroblast activation, neutrophil infiltration, and ECM remodelling as early onset pro-metastatic events; Proteome profiling identified EFEMP1, an extracellular secreted glycoprotein, as a potential predictive biomarker for lung metastasis and poor prognosis in osteosarcoma patients. Osteosarcoma patients with EFEMP1 expressing biopsies have a poorer overall survival.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara F F Almeida
- Institute for Nuclear Sciences Applied to Health (ICNAS) and Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research (CIBIT), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
| | - Liliana Santos
- Institute for Nuclear Sciences Applied to Health (ICNAS) and Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research (CIBIT), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
| | - Gabriela Sampaio-Ribeiro
- Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology Consortium (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), Coimbra, 3000-075, Portugal
| | - Hugo R S Ferreira
- Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology Consortium (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), Coimbra, 3000-075, Portugal
| | - Nuno Lima
- Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology Consortium (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), Coimbra, 3000-075, Portugal
| | - Rui Caetano
- Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology Consortium (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), Coimbra, 3000-075, Portugal
- Pathology Department, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, 3004-561, Portugal
| | - Mónica Abreu
- Multidisciplinary Institute of Ageing (MIA), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Mónica Zuzarte
- Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology Consortium (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), Coimbra, 3000-075, Portugal
| | - Ana Sofia Ribeiro
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), Porto, 4200-135, Portugal
| | - Artur Paiva
- Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology Consortium (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), Coimbra, 3000-075, Portugal
- Flow Cytometry Unit, Department of Clinical Pathology, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Tânia Martins-Marques
- Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology Consortium (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), Coimbra, 3000-075, Portugal
| | - Paulo Teixeira
- Pathology Department, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, 3004-561, Portugal
| | - Rui Almeida
- Pathology Department, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, 3004-561, Portugal
| | - José Manuel Casanova
- Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology Consortium (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), Coimbra, 3000-075, Portugal
- Tumor Unit of the Locomotor Apparatus (UTAL), Orthopedics Service, Coimbra Hospital and University Center (CHUC), University Clinic of Orthopedics, Coimbra, 3000-075, Portugal
| | - Henrique Girão
- Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology Consortium (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), Coimbra, 3000-075, Portugal
| | - Antero J Abrunhosa
- Institute for Nuclear Sciences Applied to Health (ICNAS) and Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research (CIBIT), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal
| | - Célia M Gomes
- Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal.
- Center for Innovative Biomedicine and Biotechnology Consortium (CIBB), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, 3000-548, Portugal.
- Clinical Academic Center of Coimbra (CACC), Coimbra, 3000-075, Portugal.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Li Y, Chen W, Kang Y, Zhen X, Zhou Z, Liu C, Chen S, Huang X, Liu HJ, Koo S, Kong N, Ji X, Xie T, Tao W. Nanosensitizer-mediated augmentation of sonodynamic therapy efficacy and antitumor immunity. Nat Commun 2023; 14:6973. [PMID: 37914681 PMCID: PMC10620173 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-42509-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The dense stroma of desmoplastic tumor limits nanotherapeutic penetration and hampers the antitumor immune response. Here, we report a denaturation-and-penetration strategy and the use of tin monosulfide nanoparticles (SnSNPs) as nano-sonosensitizers that can overcome the stromal barrier for the management of desmoplastic triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). SnSNPs possess a narrow bandgap (1.18 eV), allowing for efficient electron (e-)-hole (h+) pair separation to generate reactive oxygen species under US activation. More importantly, SnSNPs display mild photothermal properties that can in situ denature tumor collagen and facilitate deep penetration into the tumor mass upon near-infrared irradiation. This approach significantly enhances sonodynamic therapy (SDT) by SnSNPs and boosts antitumor immunity. In mouse models of malignant TNBC and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the combination of robust SDT and enhanced cytotoxic T lymphocyte infiltration achieves remarkable anti-tumor efficacy. This study presents an innovative approach to enhance SDT and antitumor immunity using the denaturation-and-penetration strategy, offering a potential combined sono-immunotherapy approach for the cancer nanomedicine field.
Collapse
Grants
- This work was supported by US METAvivor Early Career Investigator Award (No. 2018A020560, W.T.), Harvard/Brigham Health & Technology Innovation Fund (No. 2023A004452; W.T.), Department Basic Scientist Grant (No. 2420 BPA075, W.T.), Gillian Reny Stepping Strong Center for Trauma Innovation Breakthrough Innovator Award (No. 113548, W.T.), Nanotechnology Foundation (No. 2022A002721, W.T.), Farokhzad Family Distinguished Chair Foundation (No. 018129, W.T.). W.T. also acknowledges the support from American Heart Association (AHA) Transformational Project Award (No. 23TPA1072337), AHA Collaborative Sciences Award (No. 2018A004190), AHA’s Second Century Early Faculty Independence Award (No. 23SCEFIA1151841), American Lung Association (ALA) Cancer Discovery Award (No. LCD1034625), ALA Courtney Cox Cole Lung Cancer Research Award (No. 2022A017206), Novo Nordisk Validation Award (No. 2023A009607), and the Khoury Innovation Award (No. 2020A003219).
- National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 82122076, N.K.)
- National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 81730108 and 81973635, T.X.)
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yongjiang Li
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Wei Chen
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Yong Kang
- Academy of Medical Engineering and Translational Medicine, Medical College, Tianjin University, 300072, Tianjin, China
| | - Xueyan Zhen
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Zhuoming Zhou
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Chuang Liu
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Shuying Chen
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Xiangang Huang
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Hai-Jun Liu
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Seyoung Koo
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Na Kong
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou, China
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, 311121, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaoyuan Ji
- Academy of Medical Engineering and Translational Medicine, Medical College, Tianjin University, 300072, Tianjin, China
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, 311121, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Tian Xie
- School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, 311121, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Key Laboratory of Element Class Anti-Cancer Chinese Medicines, Hangzhou Normal University, 311121, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Engineering Laboratory of Development and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicines, Hangzhou Normal University, 311121, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Traditional Chinese Medicines of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Normal University, 311121, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Wei Tao
- Center for Nanomedicine and Department of Anesthesiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Yue S, Wang Q, Zhang J, Hu Q, Liu C. Understanding cervical cancer at single-cell resolution. Cancer Lett 2023; 576:216408. [PMID: 37769795 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2023.216408] [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: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Cervical cancer is now the fourth most prevalent malignancy in women worldwide, representing a tremendous burden of cancer. The heterogeneity of complex tumor ecosystem impacts tumorigenesis, malignant progression, and response to treatment; thus, a thorough understanding of the tumor ecosystem is vital for enhancing the prognosis of patients with cervical cancer. The rapid development and widespread use of single-cell sequencing have generated a new paradigm of cancer research, providing a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of cancers. In this review, we give an overview of the recent advances made by leveraging single-cell sequencing studies in the dissection of cervical cancer ecosystem heterogeneity. We highlight the evolution of the cervical cancer ecosystem during tumor initiation, progression, and treatment. High-resolution dissection of cervical cancer at the single-cell level has the potential to drive the development of targeted therapies and enable the realization of personalized medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shengqin Yue
- Department of Oncology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, China
| | - Qian Wang
- Department of Oncology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, China
| | - Jiajun Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, China
| | - Qinyong Hu
- Department of Oncology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, China.
| | - Chao Liu
- Department of Oncology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, China.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
He D, Tang H, Yang X, Liu X, Zhang Y, Shi J. Elaboration and validation of a prognostic signature associated with disulfidoptosis in lung adenocarcinoma, consolidated with integration of single-cell RNA sequencing and bulk RNA sequencing techniques. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1278496. [PMID: 37965333 PMCID: PMC10641741 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1278496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD), the predominant subtype of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), remains a pervasive global public health concern. Disulfidoptosis, a nascent form of regulated cell death (RCD), presents an emerging field of inquiry. Currently, investigations into disulfidoptosis are in their initial stages. Our undertaking sought to integrate single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) in conjunction with traditional bulk RNA sequencing (bulk RNA-seq) methodologies, with the objective of delineating genes associated with disulfidoptosis and subsequently prognosticating the clinical outcomes of LUAD patients. Methods Initially, we conducted an in-depth examination of the cellular composition disparities existing between LUAD and normal samples using scRNA-seq data sourced from GSE149655. Simultaneously, we scrutinized the expression patterns of disulfidoptosis-associated gene sets across diverse cell types. Subsequently, leveraging the bulk RNA-seq data, we formulated disulfidoptosis-related prognostic risk signatures (DRPS) employing LASSO-Cox regression. This was accomplished by focusing on genes implicated in disulfidoptosis that exhibited differential expression within endothelial cells (ECs). Sequentially, the robustness and precision of the DRPS model were rigorously verified through both internal and external validation datasets. In parallel, we executed single-cell trajectory analysis to delve into the differentiation dynamics of ECs. Concluding our study, we undertook a comprehensive investigation encompassing various facets. These included comparative assessments of enrichment pathways, clinicopathological parameters, immune cell abundance, immune response-associated genes, impacts of immunotherapy, and drug predictions among distinct risk cohorts. Results The scrutiny of scRNA-seq data underscored discernible disparities in cellular composition between LUAD and normal samples. Furthermore, disulfidoptosis-associated genes exhibited marked discrepancies within endothelial cells (ECs). Consequently, we formulated the Disulfidoptosis-Related Prognostic Signature (DRPS) to facilitate prognostic prediction. The prognostic nomogram based on the risk score effectively demonstrated DRPS's robust capacity to prognosticate survival outcomes. This assertion was corroborated by rigorous assessments utilizing both internal and external validation sets, thus affirming the commendable predictive accuracy and enduring stability of DRPS. Functional enrichment analysis shed light on the significant correlation of DRPS with pathways intrinsic to the cell cycle. Subsequent analysis unveiled correlations between DRPS and gene mutations characteristic of LUAD, as well as indications of an immunosuppressive status. Through drug prediction, we explored potential therapeutic agents for low-risk patients. Concluding our investigation, qRT-PCR experiments confirmed the heightened expression levels of EPHX1, LDHA, SHC1, MYO6, and TLE1 in lung cancer cell lines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dabao He
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shenzhen Longhua District Central Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Hengfeng Tang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shenzhen Longhua District Central Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiaoling Yang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shenzhen Baoan District Songgang People’s Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiaohong Liu
- Department of Oncology, Shenzhen Longhua District Central Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yipeng Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shenzhen Longhua District Central Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Junzhu Shi
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shenzhen Longhua District Central Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Wu C, Weis SM, Cheresh DA. Upregulation of fibronectin and its integrin receptors - an adaptation to isolation stress that facilitates tumor initiation. J Cell Sci 2023; 136:jcs261483. [PMID: 37870164 PMCID: PMC10652044 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.261483] [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] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor initiation at either primary or metastatic sites is an inefficient process in which tumor cells must fulfill a series of conditions. One critical condition involves the ability of individual tumor-initiating cells to overcome 'isolation stress', enabling them to survive within harsh isolating microenvironments that can feature nutrient stress, hypoxia, oxidative stress and the absence of a proper extracellular matrix (ECM). In response to isolation stress, tumor cells can exploit various adaptive strategies to develop stress tolerance and gain stemness features. In this Opinion, we discuss how strategies such as the induction of certain cell surface receptors and deposition of ECM proteins enable tumor cells to endure isolation stress, thereby gaining tumor-initiating potential. As examples, we highlight recent findings from our group demonstrating how exposure of tumor cells to isolation stress upregulates the G-protein-coupled receptor lysophosphatidic acid receptor 4 (LPAR4), its downstream target fibronectin and two fibronectin-binding integrins, α5β1 and αvβ3. These responses create a fibronectin-rich niche for tumor cells, ultimately driving stress tolerance, cancer stemness and tumor initiation. We suggest that approaches to prevent cancer cells from adapting to stress by suppressing LPAR4 induction, blocking its downstream signaling or disrupting fibronectin-integrin interactions hold promise as potential strategies for cancer treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chengsheng Wu
- Department of Pathology, Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Sara M. Weis
- Department of Pathology, Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - David A. Cheresh
- Department of Pathology, Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
- Sanford Consortium for Regenerative Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Hajiabadi S, Alidadi S, Montakhab Farahi Z, Ghahramani Seno MM, Farzin H, Haghparast A. Immunotherapy with STING and TLR9 agonists promotes synergistic therapeutic efficacy with suppressed cancer-associated fibroblasts in colon carcinoma. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1258691. [PMID: 37901237 PMCID: PMC10611477 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1258691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The innate immune sensing of nucleic acids using effective immunoadjuvants is critical for increasing protective immune responses against cancer. Stimulators of interferon genes (STING) and toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9) agonists are considered promising candidates in several preclinical tumor models with the potential to be used in clinical settings. However, the effects of such treatment on tumor stroma are currently unknown. In this study, we investigated the immunotherapeutic effects of ADU-S100 as a STING agonist and CpG ODN1826 as a TLR9 agonist in a preclinical model of colon carcinoma. Tumor-bearing mice were treated intratumorally on days 10 and 16 post-tumor inoculation with ADU-S100 and CpG ODN1826. Cytokine profiles in the tumor and spleen, tumor cell apoptosis, the infiltration of immune cells, and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in the tumor microenvironment (TME) were evaluated to identify the immunological mechanisms after treatment. The powerful antitumor activity of single and combination treatments, the upregulation of the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the tumor and spleen, and the recruitment and infiltration of the TME by immune cells revealed the synergism of immunoadjuvants in the eradication of the colon carcinoma model. Remarkably, the significant downregulation of CAFs in the TME indicated that suppression of tumorigenesis occurred after immunoadjuvant therapy. The results illustrate the potential of targeting the STING and TLR9 pathways as powerful immunoadjuvants in the treatment of preclinical colon carcinoma and the possibility of harnessing these pathways in future therapeutic approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sare Hajiabadi
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Soodeh Alidadi
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Zohreh Montakhab Farahi
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | | | - Hamidreza Farzin
- Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute, Agriculture Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Mashhad, Iran
| | - Alireza Haghparast
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Wang L, Wang B, Kou E, Du L, Zhu Y. New insight into the role of fibroblasts in the epithelial immune microenvironment in the single-cell era. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1259515. [PMID: 37809065 PMCID: PMC10556469 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1259515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The skin is exposed to environmental challenges and contains heterogeneous cell populations such as epithelial cells, stromal cells, and skin-resident immune cells. As the most abundant type of stromal cells, fibroblasts have been historically considered silent observers in the immune responses of the cutaneous epithelial immune microenvironment (EIME), with little research conducted on their heterogeneity and immune-related functions. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and spatial transcriptomics (ST) have overcome the limitations of bulk RNA sequencing and help recognize the functional and spatial heterogeneity of fibroblasts, as well as their crosstalk with other types of cells in the cutaneous EIME. Recently, emerging single-cell sequencing data have demonstrated that fibroblasts notably participate in the immune responses of the EIME and impact the initiation and progression of inflammatory skin diseases. Here, we summarize the latest advances in the role of fibroblasts in the cutaneous EIME of inflammatory skin diseases and discuss the distinct functions and molecular mechanisms of activated fibroblasts in fibrotic skin diseases and non-fibrotic inflammatory skin diseases. This review help unveil the multiple roles of fibroblasts in the cutaneous EIME and offer new promising therapeutic strategies for the management of inflammatory skin diseases by targeting fibroblasts or the fibroblast-centered EIME.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Lin Du
- Department of Dermatology, Naval Medical Center, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuanjie Zhu
- Department of Dermatology, Naval Medical Center, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Petővári G, Tóth G, Turiák L, L. Kiss A, Pálóczi K, Sebestyén A, Pesti A, Kiss A, Baghy K, Dezső K, Füle T, Tátrai P, Kovalszky I, Reszegi A. Dynamic Interplay in Tumor Ecosystems: Communication between Hepatoma Cells and Fibroblasts. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13996. [PMID: 37762298 PMCID: PMC10530979 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241813996] [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: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumors are intricate ecosystems where cancer cells and non-malignant stromal cells, including cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), engage in complex communication. In this study, we investigated the interaction between poorly (HLE) and well-differentiated (HuH7) hepatoma cells and LX2 fibroblasts. We explored various communication channels, including soluble factors, metabolites, extracellular vesicles (EVs), and miRNAs. Co-culture with HLE cells induced LX2 to produce higher levels of laminin β1, type IV collagen, and CD44, with pronounced syndecan-1 shedding. Conversely, in HuH7/LX2 co-culture, fibronectin, thrombospondin-1, type IV collagen, and cell surface syndecan-1 were dominant matrix components. Integrins α6β4 and α6β1 were upregulated in HLE, while α5β1 and αVβ1 were increased in HuH7. HLE-stimulated LX2 produced excess MMP-2 and 9, whereas HuH7-stimulated LX2 produced excess MMP-1. LX2 activated MAPK and Wnt signaling in hepatoma cells, and conversely, hepatoma-derived EVs upregulated MAPK and Wnt in LX2 cells. LX2-derived EVs induced over tenfold upregulation of SPOCK1/testican-1 in hepatoma EV cargo. We also identified liver cancer-specific miRNAs in hepatoma EVs, with potential implications for early diagnosis. In summary, our study reveals tumor type-dependent communication between hepatoma cells and fibroblasts, shedding light on potential implications for tumor progression. However, the clinical relevance of liver cancer-specific miRNAs requires further investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gábor Petővári
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Üllői út 26, H-1085 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Gábor Tóth
- MS Proteomics Research Group, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Eötvös Loránd Research Network, Magyar Tudósok Körútja 2, H-1117 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Lilla Turiák
- MS Proteomics Research Group, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Eötvös Loránd Research Network, Magyar Tudósok Körútja 2, H-1117 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Anna L. Kiss
- Department of Human Morphology and Developmental Biology, Semmelweis University, Tűzoltó u. 58, H-1094 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Krisztina Pálóczi
- Department of Genetics, Cell and Immunobiology, Semmelweis University, H-1085 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Anna Sebestyén
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Üllői út 26, H-1085 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Adrián Pesti
- Department of Pathology, Forensic and Insurance Medicine, Semmelweis University, Üllői út 93, H-1091 Budapest, Hungary
| | - András Kiss
- Department of Pathology, Forensic and Insurance Medicine, Semmelweis University, Üllői út 93, H-1091 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Kornélia Baghy
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Üllői út 26, H-1085 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Katalin Dezső
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Üllői út 26, H-1085 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Tibor Füle
- Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc., Váci út. 41-43, H-1134 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Péter Tátrai
- Charles River Laboratories Hungary, Irinyi József utca 4-20, H-1117 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Ilona Kovalszky
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Üllői út 26, H-1085 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Andrea Reszegi
- Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Üllői út 26, H-1085 Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Pathology, Forensic and Insurance Medicine, Semmelweis University, Üllői út 93, H-1091 Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Ding L, Liang M, Li Y, Zeng M, Liu M, Ma W, Chen F, Li C, Reis RL, Li F, Wang Y. Zinc-Organometallic Framework Vaccine Controlled-Release Zn 2+ Regulates Tumor Extracellular Matrix Degradation Potentiate Efficacy of Immunotherapy. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2302967. [PMID: 37439462 PMCID: PMC10520680 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202302967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
Tumor extracellular matrix (ECM) not only forms a physical barrier for T cells infiltration, but also regulates multiple immunosuppressive pathways, which is an important reason for immunotherapy failure. The cyclic guanosine monophosphate-adenosine monophosphate synthase-stimulator of interferon genes (cGAS-STING) pathway plays a key role in activating CD8+ T cells, maintaining CD8+ T cells stemness and enhancing the antitumor effect. Herein, a zinc-organometallic framework vaccine (ZPM@OVA-CpG) prepared by self-assembly, which achieves site-directed release of Zn2+ in dendritic cell (DC) lysosomes and tumor microenvironment under acidic conditions, is reported. The vaccine actively targets DC, significantly enhances cGAS-STING signal, promotes DC maturation and antigen cross-presentation, and induces strong activation of CD8+ T cells. Meanwhile, the vaccine reaches the tumor site, releasing Zn2+ , significantly up-regulates the activity of matrix metalloproteinase-2, degrades various collagen components of tumor ECM, effectively alleviates immune suppression, and significantly enhances the tumor infiltration and killing of CD8+ T cells. ZPM@OVA-CpG vaccine not only solves the problem of low antigen delivery efficiency and weak CD8+ T cells activation ability, but also achieves the degradation of tumor ECM via the vaccine for the first time, providing a promising therapeutic platform for the development of efficient novel tumor vaccines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lin Ding
- The First Affiliated Hospital (Shenzhen People's Hospital)Southern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhen518055China
- Translational Medicine Collaborative Innovation CenterThe First Affiliated Hospital (Shenzhen People's Hospital)Southern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhen518020China
- Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center of Stem Cell and Cell TherapyShenzhen Key Laboratory of Stem Cell Research and Clinical TransformationShenzhen Immune Cell Therapy Public Service PlatformShenzhen518020China
| | - Minli Liang
- The First Affiliated Hospital (Shenzhen People's Hospital)Southern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhen518055China
- Translational Medicine Collaborative Innovation CenterThe First Affiliated Hospital (Shenzhen People's Hospital)Southern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhen518020China
- Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center of Stem Cell and Cell TherapyShenzhen Key Laboratory of Stem Cell Research and Clinical TransformationShenzhen Immune Cell Therapy Public Service PlatformShenzhen518020China
| | - Yuanyuan Li
- Clinical Laboratory, Jiaozuo Women's and Child's HospitalJiaozuo454001China
| | - Mei Zeng
- School of PharmacyGuangdong Medical UniversityDongguan523109China
| | - Meiting Liu
- School of PharmacyGuangdong Medical UniversityDongguan523109China
| | - Wei Ma
- Translational Medicine Collaborative Innovation CenterThe First Affiliated Hospital (Shenzhen People's Hospital)Southern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhen518020China
- Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center of Stem Cell and Cell TherapyShenzhen Key Laboratory of Stem Cell Research and Clinical TransformationShenzhen Immune Cell Therapy Public Service PlatformShenzhen518020China
| | - Fuming Chen
- Translational Medicine Collaborative Innovation CenterThe First Affiliated Hospital (Shenzhen People's Hospital)Southern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhen518020China
- Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center of Stem Cell and Cell TherapyShenzhen Key Laboratory of Stem Cell Research and Clinical TransformationShenzhen Immune Cell Therapy Public Service PlatformShenzhen518020China
| | - Chenchen Li
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of EducationSchool of Pharmacy and The First Affiliated HospitalHainan Medical UniversityHaikou570228China
| | - Rui L. Reis
- 3B's Research GroupI3Bs‐Research Institute on Biomaterials Biodegradables and BiomimeticsUniversity of MinhoGuimarães4805–017Portugal
| | - Fu‐Rong Li
- The First Affiliated Hospital (Shenzhen People's Hospital)Southern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhen518055China
- Translational Medicine Collaborative Innovation CenterThe First Affiliated Hospital (Shenzhen People's Hospital)Southern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhen518020China
- Guangdong Engineering Technology Research Center of Stem Cell and Cell TherapyShenzhen Key Laboratory of Stem Cell Research and Clinical TransformationShenzhen Immune Cell Therapy Public Service PlatformShenzhen518020China
| | - Yanli Wang
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of EducationSchool of Pharmacy and The First Affiliated HospitalHainan Medical UniversityHaikou570228China
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Huang L, Xie Q, Deng J, Wei WF. The role of cancer-associated fibroblasts in bladder cancer progression. Heliyon 2023; 9:e19802. [PMID: 37809511 PMCID: PMC10559166 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e19802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2023] [Revised: 08/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are key stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME) that critically contribute to cancer initiation and progression. In bladder cancer (BCa), there is emerging evidence that BCa CAFs are actively involved in cancer cell proliferation, invasion, metastasis, and chemotherapy resistance. This review outlines the present knowledge of BCa CAFs, with a particular emphasis on their origin and function in BCa progression, and provides further insights into their clinical application.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Long Huang
- Department of Urology, Zhuhai People's Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Qun Xie
- Department of Urology, Zhuhai People's Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Jian Deng
- Department of Urology, Zhuhai People's Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
| | - Wen-Fei Wei
- Department of Gynecology, Zhuhai People's Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, Guangdong, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Giorello MB, Martinez LM, Borzone FR, Padin MDR, Mora MF, Sevic I, Alaniz L, Calcagno MDL, García-Rivello H, Wernicke A, Labovsky V, Chasseing NA. CD105 expression in cancer-associated fibroblasts: a biomarker for bone metastasis in early invasive ductal breast cancer patients. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1250869. [PMID: 37719885 PMCID: PMC10501720 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1250869] [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: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Bone metastasis is one of the causes that mainly decrease survival in patients with advanced breast cancer. Therefore, it is essential to find prognostic markers for the occurrence of this type of metastasis during the early stage of the disease. Currently, cancer-associated fibroblasts, which represent 80% of the fibroblasts present in the tumor microenvironment, are an interesting target for studying new biomarkers and developing alternative therapies. This study evaluated the prognostic significance of the CD105 expression in cancer-associated fibroblasts in early breast cancer patients. Methods: Immunohistochemistry was used to assess CD105 expression in invasive ductal breast carcinomas (n = 342), analyzing its association with clinical and pathological characteristics. Results: High CD105 expression in cancer-associated fibroblasts was associated with an increased risk of metastatic occurrence (p = 0.0003), particularly bone metastasis (p = 0.0005). Furthermore, high CD105 expression was associated with shorter metastasis-free survival, bone metastasis-free survival, and overall survival (p = 0.0002, 0.0006, and 0.0002, respectively). CD105 expression also constituted an independent prognostic factor for metastasis-free survival, bone metastasis-free survival, and overall survival (p = 0.0003, 0.0006, and 0.0001, respectively). Discussion: The high CD105 expression in cancer-associated fibroblasts is an independent prognostic marker for bone metastasis in early breast cancer patients. Therefore, the evaluation of CD105(+) CAFs could be crucial to stratify BCPs based on their individual risk profile for the development of BM, enhancing treatment strategies and outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- María Belén Giorello
- Laboratorio de Inmunohematología, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Leandro Marcelo Martinez
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, United States
| | - Francisco Raúl Borzone
- Laboratorio de Inmunohematología, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | | | - Ina Sevic
- Laboratorio de Microambiente Tumoral, Centro de Investigaciones Basicas y Aplicadas (CIBA), Junín, Argentina
| | - Laura Alaniz
- Laboratorio de Microambiente Tumoral, Centro de Investigaciones Basicas y Aplicadas (CIBA), Junín, Argentina
| | | | | | - Alejandra Wernicke
- Departamento de Anatomía Patológica, Hospital Italiano, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Vivian Labovsky
- Laboratorio de Inmunohematología, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Norma Alejandra Chasseing
- Laboratorio de Inmunohematología, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Slama Y, Ah-Pine F, Khettab M, Arcambal A, Begue M, Dutheil F, Gasque P. The Dual Role of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Cancer Pathophysiology: Pro-Tumorigenic Effects versus Therapeutic Potential. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13511. [PMID: 37686315 PMCID: PMC10488262 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713511] [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: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) are multipotent cells involved in numerous physiological events, including organogenesis, the maintenance of tissue homeostasis, regeneration, or tissue repair. MSCs are increasingly recognized as playing a major, dual, and complex role in cancer pathophysiology through their ability to limit or promote tumor progression. Indeed, these cells are known to interact with the tumor microenvironment, modulate the behavior of tumor cells, influence their functions, and promote distant metastasis formation through the secretion of mediators, the regulation of cell-cell interactions, and the modulation of the immune response. This dynamic network can lead to the establishment of immunoprivileged tissue niches or the formation of new tumors through the proliferation/differentiation of MSCs into cancer-associated fibroblasts as well as cancer stem cells. However, MSCs exhibit also therapeutic effects including anti-tumor, anti-proliferative, anti-inflammatory, or anti-oxidative effects. The therapeutic interest in MSCs is currently growing, mainly due to their ability to selectively migrate and penetrate tumor sites, which would make them relevant as vectors for advanced therapies. Therefore, this review aims to provide an overview of the double-edged sword implications of MSCs in tumor processes. The therapeutic potential of MSCs will be reviewed in melanoma and lung cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Youssef Slama
- Unité de Recherche Études Pharmaco-Immunologiques (EPI), Université de La Réunion, CHU de La Réunion, Allée des Topazes, 97400 Saint-Denis, La Réunion, France; (F.A.-P.); (M.K.); (P.G.)
- Service de Radiothérapie, Clinique Sainte-Clotilde, Groupe Clinifutur, 127 Route de Bois de Nèfles, 97400 Saint-Denis, La Réunion, France; (M.B.); (F.D.)
- Laboratoire Interdisciplinaire de Recherche en Santé (LIRS), RunResearch, Clinique Sainte-Clotilde, 127 Route de Bois de Nèfles, 97400 Saint-Denis, La Réunion, France;
| | - Franck Ah-Pine
- Unité de Recherche Études Pharmaco-Immunologiques (EPI), Université de La Réunion, CHU de La Réunion, Allée des Topazes, 97400 Saint-Denis, La Réunion, France; (F.A.-P.); (M.K.); (P.G.)
- Service d’Anatomie et Cytologie Pathologiques, CHU de La Réunion sites SUD—Saint-Pierre, Avenue François Mitterrand, 97448 Saint-Pierre Cedex, La Réunion, France
| | - Mohamed Khettab
- Unité de Recherche Études Pharmaco-Immunologiques (EPI), Université de La Réunion, CHU de La Réunion, Allée des Topazes, 97400 Saint-Denis, La Réunion, France; (F.A.-P.); (M.K.); (P.G.)
- Service d’Oncologie Médicale, CHU de La Réunion sites SUD—Saint-Pierre, Avenue François Mitterrand, 97448 Saint-Pierre Cedex, La Réunion, France
| | - Angelique Arcambal
- Laboratoire Interdisciplinaire de Recherche en Santé (LIRS), RunResearch, Clinique Sainte-Clotilde, 127 Route de Bois de Nèfles, 97400 Saint-Denis, La Réunion, France;
| | - Mickael Begue
- Service de Radiothérapie, Clinique Sainte-Clotilde, Groupe Clinifutur, 127 Route de Bois de Nèfles, 97400 Saint-Denis, La Réunion, France; (M.B.); (F.D.)
- Laboratoire Interdisciplinaire de Recherche en Santé (LIRS), RunResearch, Clinique Sainte-Clotilde, 127 Route de Bois de Nèfles, 97400 Saint-Denis, La Réunion, France;
| | - Fabien Dutheil
- Service de Radiothérapie, Clinique Sainte-Clotilde, Groupe Clinifutur, 127 Route de Bois de Nèfles, 97400 Saint-Denis, La Réunion, France; (M.B.); (F.D.)
- Laboratoire Interdisciplinaire de Recherche en Santé (LIRS), RunResearch, Clinique Sainte-Clotilde, 127 Route de Bois de Nèfles, 97400 Saint-Denis, La Réunion, France;
| | - Philippe Gasque
- Unité de Recherche Études Pharmaco-Immunologiques (EPI), Université de La Réunion, CHU de La Réunion, Allée des Topazes, 97400 Saint-Denis, La Réunion, France; (F.A.-P.); (M.K.); (P.G.)
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Nail HM, Chiu CC, Leung CH, Ahmed MMM, Wang HMD. Exosomal miRNA-mediated intercellular communications and immunomodulatory effects in tumor microenvironments. J Biomed Sci 2023; 30:69. [PMID: 37605155 PMCID: PMC10440907 DOI: 10.1186/s12929-023-00964-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Extracellular communication, in other words, crosstalk between cells, has a pivotal role in the survival of an organism. This communication occurs by different methods, one of which is extracellular vesicles. Exosomes, which are small lipid extracellular vesicles, have recently been discovered to have a role in signal transduction between cells inside the body. These vesicles contain important bioactive molecules including lipids, proteins, DNA, mRNA, and noncoding RNAs such as microRNAs (miRNAs). Exosomes are secreted by all cells including immune cells (macrophages, lymphocytes, granulocytes, dendritic cells, mast cells) and tumor cells. The tumor microenvironment (TME) represents a complex network that supports the growth of tumor cells. This microenvironment encompasses tumor cells themselves, the extracellular matrix, fibroblasts, endothelial cells, blood vessels, immune cells, and non-cellular components such as exosomes and cytokines. This review aims to provide insights into the latest discoveries concerning how the immune system communicates internally and with other cell types, with a specific focus on research involving exosomal miRNAs in macrophages, dendritic cells, B lymphocytes, and T lymphocytes. Additionally, we will explore the role of exosomal miRNA in the TME and the immunomodulatory effect.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Howida M Nail
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Engineering, National Chung Hsing University, No. 145, Xingda Rd., South Dist., Taichung City, 402, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Chih Chiu
- Department of Biotechnology, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, 807, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Hang Leung
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, 999078, Macao, China
| | - Mahmoud M M Ahmed
- Department of Soil and Environmental Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, 404, Taichung City, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Min David Wang
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Engineering, National Chung Hsing University, No. 145, Xingda Rd., South Dist., Taichung City, 402, Taiwan.
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, 807, Taiwan.
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, China Medical University, Taichung City, 404, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Hogstrom JM, Cruz KA, Selfors LM, Ward MN, Mehta TS, Kanarek N, Philips J, Dialani V, Wulf G, Collins LC, Patel JM, Muranen T. Simultaneous isolation of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer organoids and fibroblasts reveals stroma-mediated resistance mechanisms. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:105021. [PMID: 37423299 PMCID: PMC10415704 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.105021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Recurrent hormone receptor-positive (HR+) breast cancer kills more than 600,000 women annually. Although HR+ breast cancers typically respond well to therapies, approximately 30% of patients relapse. At this stage, the tumors are usually metastatic and incurable. Resistance to therapy, particularly endocrine therapy is typically thought to be tumor intrinsic (e.g., estrogen receptor mutations). However, tumor-extrinsic factors also contribute to resistance. For example, stromal cells, such as cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), residing in the tumor microenvironment, are known to stimulate resistance and disease recurrence. Recurrence in HR+ disease has been difficult to study due to the prolonged clinical course, complex nature of resistance, and lack of appropriate model systems. Existing HR+ models are limited to HR+ cell lines, a few HR+ organoid models, and xenograft models that all lack components of the human stroma. Therefore, there is an urgent need for more clinically relevant models to study the complex nature of recurrent HR+ breast cancer, and the factors contributing to treatment relapse. Here, we present an optimized protocol that allows a high take-rate, and simultaneous propagation of patient-derived organoids (PDOs) and matching CAFs, from primary and metastatic HR+ breast cancers. Our protocol allows for long-term culturing of HR+ PDOs that retain estrogen receptor expression and show responsiveness to hormone therapy. We further show the functional utility of this system by identifying CAF-secreted cytokines, such as growth-regulated oncogene α , as stroma-derived resistance drivers to endocrine therapy in HR+ PDOs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jenny M Hogstrom
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kayla A Cruz
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Laura M Selfors
- Department of Cell Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Madelyn N Ward
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Tejas S Mehta
- Department of Radiology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Naama Kanarek
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jordana Philips
- Department of Radiology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Vandana Dialani
- Department of Radiology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Gerburg Wulf
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Laura C Collins
- Department of Pathology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jaymin M Patel
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Taru Muranen
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Limam I, Abdelkarim M, El Ayeb M, Crepin M, Marrakchi N, Di Benedetto M. Disintegrin-like Protein Strategy to Inhibit Aggressive Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12219. [PMID: 37569595 PMCID: PMC10418936 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241512219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Venoms are a rich source of bioactive compounds, and among them is leberagin-C (Leb-C), a disintegrin-like protein derived from the venom of Macrovipera lebetina transmediterrannea snakes. Leb-C has shown promising inhibitory effects on platelet aggregation. Previous studies have demonstrated that this SECD protein specifically targets α5β1, αvβ3, and αvβ6 integrins through a mimic mechanism of RGD disintegrins. In our current study, we focused on exploring the potential effects of Leb-C on metastatic breast cancer. Our findings revealed that Leb-C disrupted the adhesion, migration, and invasion capabilities of MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells and its highly metastatic D3H2LN sub-population. Additionally, we observed significant suppression of adhesion, migration, and invasion of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Furthermore, Leb-C demonstrated a strong inhibitory effect on fibroblast-growth-factor-2-induced proliferation of HUVEC. We conducted in vivo experiments using nude mice and found that treatment with 2 µM of Leb-C resulted in a remarkable 73% reduction in D3H2LN xenograft tumor size. Additionally, quantification of intratumor microvessels revealed a 50% reduction in tumor angiogenesis in xenograft after 21 days of twice-weekly treatment with 2 µM of Leb-C. Collectively, these findings suggest the potential utility of this disintegrin-like protein for inhibiting aggressive and resistant metastatic breast cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Inès Limam
- Laboratory of Biomolecules, Venoms and Theranostic Applications, LR20IPT01, Institut Pasteur of Tunis, Tunis El Manar University, Tunis 1068, Tunisia
| | - Mohamed Abdelkarim
- INSERM Unité 553, Laboratoire d’Hémostase, Endothélium et Angiogenèse, Hôpital Saint-Louis, 75010 Paris, France; (M.A.)
- LR99ES10, Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, Tunis El Manar University, 1 Rue Djebal Lakhdar, Tunis 1006, Tunisia
| | - Mohamed El Ayeb
- Laboratory of Biomolecules, Venoms and Theranostic Applications, LR20IPT01, Institut Pasteur of Tunis, Tunis El Manar University, Tunis 1068, Tunisia
| | - Michel Crepin
- INSERM Unité 553, Laboratoire d’Hémostase, Endothélium et Angiogenèse, Hôpital Saint-Louis, 75010 Paris, France; (M.A.)
| | - Naziha Marrakchi
- Laboratory of Biomolecules, Venoms and Theranostic Applications, LR20IPT01, Institut Pasteur of Tunis, Tunis El Manar University, Tunis 1068, Tunisia
| | - Mélanie Di Benedetto
- IUT of Saint-Denis, Department HSE, Université Paris 13, UMRS941 SMBH, 1 Rue de Chablis, 93000 Bobigny, France
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Wiktorska M, Sacewicz-Hofman I, Niewiarowska J. The endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition changes the focal adhesion site proteins levels and the SLRP-lumican level in HMEC-1 cell line. Exp Cell Res 2023:113692. [PMID: 37392962 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2023.113692] [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: 01/25/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/03/2023]
Abstract
Scleroderma, the chronic autoimmune disease is a consequence of inflammation in the connective tissue. Prolonged duration affects formation of compact connective tissue strands (scarring) within the target organ. Endothelial cells undergoing endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) are the source of fibroblast phenotype-resembling cells. EndMT contributes to reorganization of the focal adhesion proteins (FA), including integrins, and intensive extracellular matrix (ECM) remodelling. However, in endothelial cells, the relationship between EndMT and the interaction of integrin receptors with lumican - a component of ECM, is still unclear. Our findings indicate that at the early stages of EndMT caused by Snail-1 transcription factor overexpression, the level of the β1 integrin subunit and its phosphorylation are elevated. Simultaneously, the changes in the level of proteins that build FAs and promote activation of integrin receptors as well as a decrease in lumican quantity were observed. These modulations contributed to increased migration of human microvascular endothelial cells, HMEC-1. Our findings were achieved by WB, ELISA and wound healing assay. Taken altogether, transfection of HMEC-1 cells with Snail-1 plasmids inducing the early stages of EndMT results in the increase of total FAK and integrin β1 phosphorylation as well as cell migration: phenomena which are modulated by interaction with lumican.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Wiktorska
- Department of Molecular Cell Mechanisms, Medical University of Lodz, 92-215, Lodz, Poland
| | | | - Jolanta Niewiarowska
- Department of Molecular Cell Mechanisms, Medical University of Lodz, 92-215, Lodz, Poland.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Piwocka O, Musielak M, Piotrowski I, Kulcenty K, Adamczyk B, Fundowicz M, Suchorska WM, Malicki J. Primary cancer-associated fibroblasts exhibit high heterogeneity among breast cancer subtypes. Rep Pract Oncol Radiother 2023; 28:159-171. [PMID: 37456709 PMCID: PMC10348329 DOI: 10.5603/rpor.a2023.0026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are a diverse subset of cells, that is recently gaining in popularity and have the potential to become a new target for breast cancer (BC) therapy; however, broader research is required to understand their mechanisms and interactions with breast cancer cells. The goal of the study was to isolate CAFs from breast cancer tumour and characterise isolated cell lines. We concentrated on numerous CAF biomarkers that would enable their differentiation. Materials and methods Flow cytometry, immunofluorescence, and reverse transcription quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) were used to phenotype the primary CAFs. Results/Conclusions According to our findings, there was no significant pattern in the classification of cancer-associated fibroblasts. The results of biomarkers expression were heterogeneous, thus no specific subtypes were identified. Furthermore, a comparison of cancer-associated fibroblasts derived from different BC subtypes (luminal A and B, triple-negative, HER2 positive) did not reveal any clear trend of expression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Oliwia Piwocka
- Radiobiology Laboratory, Department of Medical Physics, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Poznań, Poland
- Department of Electroradiology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
- Doctoral School, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Marika Musielak
- Radiobiology Laboratory, Department of Medical Physics, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Poznań, Poland
- Department of Electroradiology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
- Doctoral School, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Igor Piotrowski
- Radiobiology Laboratory, Department of Medical Physics, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Poznań, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Kulcenty
- Radiobiology Laboratory, Department of Medical Physics, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Poznań, Poland
| | - Beata Adamczyk
- Breast Surgical Oncology Department, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Poznań, Poland
| | | | - Wiktoria Maria Suchorska
- Radiobiology Laboratory, Department of Medical Physics, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Poznań, Poland
- Department of Electroradiology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Julian Malicki
- Department of Electroradiology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
- Medical Physics Department, Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Poznań, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Shen K, Ke S, Chen B, Zhang T, Wang H, Lv J, Gao W. Identification and validation of biomarkers for epithelial-mesenchymal transition-related cells to estimate the prognosis and immune microenvironment in primary gastric cancer by the integrated analysis of single-cell and bulk RNA sequencing data. MATHEMATICAL BIOSCIENCES AND ENGINEERING : MBE 2023; 20:13798-13823. [PMID: 37679111 DOI: 10.3934/mbe.2023614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is associated with gastric cancer (GC) progression and immune microenvironment. To better understand the heterogeneity underlying EMT, we integrated single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) data and bulk sequencing data from GC patients to evaluate the prognostic utility of biomarkers for EMT-related cells (ERCs), namely, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and epithelial cells (ECs). METHODS scRNA-seq data from primary GC tumor samples were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database to identify ERC marker genes. Bulk GC datasets from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and GEO were used as training and validation sets, respectively. Differentially expressed markers were identified from the TCGA database. Univariate Cox, least-absolute shrinkage, and selection operator regression analyses were performed to identify EMT-related cell-prognostic genes (ERCPGs). Kaplan-Meier, Cox regression, and receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses were adopted to evaluate the prognostic utility of the ERCPG signature. An ERCPG-based nomogram was constructed by integrating independent prognostic factors. Finally, we evaluated the correlations between the ERCPG signature and immune-cell infiltration and verified the expression of ERCPG prognostic signature genes by in vitro cellular assays. RESULTS The ERCPG signature was comprised of seven genes (COL4A1, F2R, MMP11, CAV1, VCAN, FKBP10, and APOD). Patients were divided into high- and low-risk groups based on the ERCPG risk scores. Patients in the high-risk group showed a poor prognosis. ROC and calibration curves suggested that the ERCPG signature and nomogram had a good prognostic utility. An immune cell-infiltration analysis suggested that the abnormal expression of ERCPGs induced the formation of an unfavorable tumor immune microenvironment. In vitro cellular assays showed that ERCPGs were more abundantly expressed in GC cell lines compared to normal gastric tissue cell lines. CONCLUSIONS We constructed and validated an ERCPG signature using scRNA-seq and bulk sequencing data from ERCs of GC patients. Our findings support the estimation of patient prognosis and tumor treatment in future clinical practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kaiyu Shen
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Shuaiyi Ke
- Department of Internal Medicine, XianJu People's Hospital, XianJu 317399, China
| | - Binyu Chen
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Tiantian Zhang
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310053, China
| | - Hongtai Wang
- Department of General Surgery, XianJu People' Hospital, XianJu 317399, China
| | - Jianhui Lv
- Department of General Surgery, XianJu People' Hospital, XianJu 317399, China
| | - Wencang Gao
- Department of Oncology, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou 310005, China
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Zheng X, Du Y, Liu M, Wang C. ITGA3 acts as a purity-independent biomarker of both immunotherapy and chemotherapy resistance in pancreatic cancer: bioinformatics and experimental analysis. Funct Integr Genomics 2023; 23:196. [PMID: 37270717 PMCID: PMC10239741 DOI: 10.1007/s10142-023-01122-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Contribution of integrin superfamily genes to treatment resistance remains uncertain. Genome patterns of thirty integrin superfamily genes were analyzed of using bulk and single-cell RNA sequencing, mutation, copy number, methylation, clinical information, immune cell infiltration, and drug sensitivity data. To select the integrins that are most strongly associated with treatment resistance in pancreatic cancer, a purity-independent RNA regulation network including integrins were constructed using machine learning. The integrin superfamily genes exhibit extensive dysregulated expression, genome alterations, epigenetic modifications, immune cell infiltration, and drug sensitivity, as evidenced by multi-omics data. However, their heterogeneity varies among different cancers. After constructing a three-gene (TMEM80, EIF4EBP1, and ITGA3) purity-independent Cox regression model using machine learning, ITGA3 was identified as a critical integrin subunit gene in pancreatic cancer. ITGA3 is involved in the molecular transformation from the classical to the basal subtype in pancreatic cancer. Elevated ITGA3 expression correlated with a malignant phenotype characterized by higher PD-L1 expression and reduced CD8+ T cell infiltration, resulting in unfavorable outcomes in patients receiving either chemotherapy or immunotherapy. Our findings suggest that ITGA3 is an important integrin in pancreatic cancer, contributing to chemotherapy resistance and immune checkpoint blockade therapy resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohao Zheng
- Department of Pancreatic and Gastric Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China
| | - Yongxing Du
- Department of Pancreatic and Gastric Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China
| | - Mingyang Liu
- State Key Lab of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China
| | - Chengfeng Wang
- Department of Pancreatic and Gastric Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China.
- State Key Lab of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China.
- Department of General Surgery, Shanxi Province Cancer Hospital/Shanxi Hospital Affiliated to Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences/Cancer Hospital Affiliated to Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030013, Shanxi, China.
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Kvokačková B, Fedr R, Kužílková D, Stuchlý J, Vávrová A, Navrátil J, Fabian P, Ondruššek R, Ovesná P, Remšík J, Bouchal J, Kalina T, Souček K. Single-cell protein profiling defines cell populations associated with triple-negative breast cancer aggressiveness. Mol Oncol 2023; 17:1024-1040. [PMID: 36550781 PMCID: PMC10257414 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.13365] [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: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive and complex subtype of breast cancer that lacks targeted therapy. TNBC manifests characteristic, extensive intratumoral heterogeneity that promotes disease progression and influences drug response. Single-cell techniques in combination with next-generation computation provide an unprecedented opportunity to identify molecular events with therapeutic potential. Here, we describe the generation of a comprehensive mass cytometry panel for multiparametric detection of 23 phenotypic markers and 13 signaling molecules. This single-cell proteomic approach allowed us to explore the landscape of TNBC heterogeneity, with particular emphasis on the tumor microenvironment. We prospectively profiled freshly resected tumors from 26 TNBC patients. These tumors contained phenotypically distinct subpopulations of cancer and stromal cells that were associated with the patient's clinical status at the time of surgery. We further classified the epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity of tumor cells, and molecularly defined phenotypically diverse populations of tumor-associated stroma. Furthermore, in a retrospective tissue-microarray TNBC cohort, we showed that the level of CD97 at the time of surgery has prognostic potential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Barbora Kvokačková
- Department of CytokineticsInstitute of Biophysics of the Czech Academy of SciencesBrnoCzech Republic
- International Clinical Research CenterSt. Anne's University HospitalBrnoCzech Republic
- Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of ScienceMasaryk UniversityBrnoCzech Republic
| | - Radek Fedr
- Department of CytokineticsInstitute of Biophysics of the Czech Academy of SciencesBrnoCzech Republic
- International Clinical Research CenterSt. Anne's University HospitalBrnoCzech Republic
| | - Daniela Kužílková
- Childhood Leukaemia Investigation PragueCzech Republic
- Department of Pediatric Haematology and Oncology, 2nd Faculty of MedicineCharles University Prague and University Hospital MotolCzech Republic
| | - Jan Stuchlý
- Childhood Leukaemia Investigation PragueCzech Republic
- Department of Pediatric Haematology and Oncology, 2nd Faculty of MedicineCharles University Prague and University Hospital MotolCzech Republic
| | - Adéla Vávrová
- Childhood Leukaemia Investigation PragueCzech Republic
- Faculty of ScienceCharles University PragueCzech Republic
| | - Jiří Navrátil
- Department of Comprehensive Cancer CareMasaryk Memorial Cancer InstituteBrnoCzech Republic
| | - Pavel Fabian
- Department of Oncological PathologyMasaryk Memorial Cancer InstituteBrnoCzech Republic
| | - Róbert Ondruššek
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Pathology, Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and DentistryPalacký University and University HospitalOlomoucCzech Republic
- Department of PathologyEUC Laboratoře CGB a.s.OstravaCzech Republic
| | - Petra Ovesná
- Institute of Biostatistics and Analyses, Faculty of MedicineMasaryk UniversityBrnoCzech Republic
| | - Ján Remšík
- Human Oncology and Pathogenesis ProgramMemorial Sloan Kettering Cancer CenterNew York CityNYUSA
| | - Jan Bouchal
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Pathology, Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and DentistryPalacký University and University HospitalOlomoucCzech Republic
| | - Tomáš Kalina
- Childhood Leukaemia Investigation PragueCzech Republic
- Department of Pediatric Haematology and Oncology, 2nd Faculty of MedicineCharles University Prague and University Hospital MotolCzech Republic
| | - Karel Souček
- Department of CytokineticsInstitute of Biophysics of the Czech Academy of SciencesBrnoCzech Republic
- International Clinical Research CenterSt. Anne's University HospitalBrnoCzech Republic
- Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of ScienceMasaryk UniversityBrnoCzech Republic
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Dong M, Tang R, Wang W, Xu J, Liu J, Liang C, Hua J, Meng Q, Yu X, Zhang B, Shi S. Integrated analysis revealed hypoxia signatures and LDHA related to tumor cell dedifferentiation and unfavorable prognosis in pancreatic adenocarcinoma: Hypoxia in PDAC. Transl Oncol 2023; 33:101692. [PMID: 37182509 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2023.101692] [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: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 04/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly heterogeneous cancer with limited understanding of its classification and tumor microenvironment. Here, by analyzing single-nucleus RNA sequencing of 43, 817 tumor cells from 15 PDAC tumors and non-tumor, we find that hypoxia signatures were heterogeneous across samples and were potential regulators for tumor progression and more aggressive phenotype. Hypoxia-high PDAC tends to present a basal/squamous-like phenotype and has significantly increased outgoing signaling, which enhances tumor cell stemness and promotes metastasis, angiogenesis, and fibroblast differentiation in PDAC. Hypoxia is related to an extracellular matrix enriched microenvironment, and increased possibility of TP53 mutation in PDAC. TP63 is a specific marker of squamous-like phenotype, and presents elevated transcriptome levels in most hypoxia PDAC tumors. In summary, our research highlights the potential linkage of hypoxia, tumor progression and genome alteration in PDAC, leading to further understand of the formation of inter-tumoral and intra-tumoral heterogenous in PDAC. Our study extends the understanding of the diversity and transition of tumor cells in PDAC, which provides insight into future PDAC management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mingwei Dong
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, 270 Dong'An Road, Shanghai 200032, P R China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P R China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai 200032, P R China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P R China
| | - Rong Tang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, 270 Dong'An Road, Shanghai 200032, P R China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P R China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai 200032, P R China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P R China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, 270 Dong'An Road, Shanghai 200032, P R China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P R China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai 200032, P R China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P R China
| | - Jin Xu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, 270 Dong'An Road, Shanghai 200032, P R China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P R China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai 200032, P R China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P R China
| | - Jiang Liu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, 270 Dong'An Road, Shanghai 200032, P R China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P R China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai 200032, P R China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P R China
| | - Chen Liang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, 270 Dong'An Road, Shanghai 200032, P R China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P R China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai 200032, P R China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P R China
| | - Jie Hua
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, 270 Dong'An Road, Shanghai 200032, P R China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P R China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai 200032, P R China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P R China
| | - Qingcai Meng
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, 270 Dong'An Road, Shanghai 200032, P R China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P R China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai 200032, P R China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P R China
| | - Xianjun Yu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, 270 Dong'An Road, Shanghai 200032, P R China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P R China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai 200032, P R China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P R China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, 270 Dong'An Road, Shanghai 200032, P R China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P R China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai 200032, P R China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P R China.
| | - Si Shi
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, 270 Dong'An Road, Shanghai 200032, P R China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P R China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai 200032, P R China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, P R China.
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Naik A, Leask A. Tumor-Associated Fibrosis Impairs the Response to Immunotherapy. Matrix Biol 2023; 119:125-140. [PMID: 37080324 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2023.04.002] [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: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
Previously, impaired responses to immunotherapy in cancer had been attributed mainly to inherent tumor characteristics (tumor cell intrinsic factors) such as low immunogenicity, (low) mutational burden, weak host immune system, etc. However, mapping the responses of immunotherapeutic regimes in clinical trials for different types of cancer has pointed towards an obvious commonality - that tumors with a rich fibrotic stroma respond poorly or not at all. This has prompted a harder look on tumor cell extrinsic factors such as the surrounding tumor microenvironment (TME), and specifically, the fibrotic stroma as a potential enabler of immunotherapy failure. Indeed, the role of cancer-associated fibrosis in impeding efficacy of immunotherapy is now well-established. In fact, recent studies reveal a complex interconnection between fibrosis and treatment efficacy. Accordingly, in this review we provide a general overview of what a tumor associated fibrotic reaction is and how it interacts with the members of immune system that are frequently seen to be modulated in a failed immunotherapeutic regime.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Angha Naik
- University of Saskatchewan, College of Dentistry, 105 Wiggins Road, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Andrew Leask
- University of Saskatchewan, College of Dentistry, 105 Wiggins Road, Saskatoon, SK, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Myo Min KK, Ffrench CB, Jessup CF, Shepherdson M, Barreto SG, Bonder CS. Overcoming the Fibrotic Fortress in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: Challenges and Opportunities. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15082354. [PMID: 37190281 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15082354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
An overabundance of desmoplasia in the tumour microenvironment (TME) is one of the defining features that influences pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) development, progression, metastasis, and treatment resistance. Desmoplasia is characterised by the recruitment and activation of fibroblasts, heightened extracellular matrix deposition (ECM) and reduced blood supply, as well as increased inflammation through an influx of inflammatory cells and cytokines, creating an intrinsically immunosuppressive TME with low immunogenic potential. Herein, we review the development of PDAC, the drivers that initiate and/or sustain the progression of the disease and the complex and interwoven nature of the cellular and acellular components that come together to make PDAC one of the most aggressive and difficult to treat cancers. We review the challenges in delivering drugs into the fortress of PDAC tumours in concentrations that are therapeutic due to the presence of a highly fibrotic and immunosuppressive TME. Taken together, we present further support for continued/renewed efforts focusing on aspects of the extremely dense and complex TME of PDAC to improve the efficacy of therapy for better patient outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kay K Myo Min
- Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Charlie B Ffrench
- Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Claire F Jessup
- College of Medicine & Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia
- Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Mia Shepherdson
- College of Medicine & Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia
- Hepatopancreatobiliary & Liver Transplant Unit, Division of Surgery & Perioperative Medicine, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia
| | - Savio George Barreto
- College of Medicine & Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia
- Hepatopancreatobiliary & Liver Transplant Unit, Division of Surgery & Perioperative Medicine, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, SA 5042, Australia
| | - Claudine S Bonder
- Centre for Cancer Biology, University of South Australia and SA Pathology, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
- Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Rademacher DJ. Potential for Therapeutic-Loaded Exosomes to Ameliorate the Pathogenic Effects of α-Synuclein in Parkinson's Disease. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11041187. [PMID: 37189807 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11041187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Pathogenic forms of α-synuclein (α-syn) are transferred to and from neurons, astrocytes, and microglia, which spread α-syn pathology in the olfactory bulb and the gut and then throughout the Parkinson's disease (PD) brain and exacerbate neurodegenerative processes. Here, we review attempts to minimize or ameliorate the pathogenic effects of α-syn or deliver therapeutic cargo into the brain. Exosomes (EXs) have several important advantages as carriers of therapeutic agents including an ability to readily cross the blood-brain barrier, the potential for targeted delivery of therapeutic agents, and immune resistance. Diverse cargo can be loaded via various methods, which are reviewed herein, into EXs and delivered into the brain. Genetic modification of EX-producing cells or EXs and chemical modification of EX have emerged as powerful approaches for the targeted delivery of therapeutic agents to treat PD. Thus, EXs hold great promise for the development of next-generation therapeutics for the treatment of PD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David J Rademacher
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology and Core Imaging Facility, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL 60153, USA
| |
Collapse
|