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Škarková A, Bizzarri M, Janoštiak R, Mašek J, Rosel D, Brábek J. Educate, not kill: treating cancer without triggering its defenses. Trends Mol Med 2024; 30:673-685. [PMID: 38658206 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2024.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Traditionally, anticancer therapies focus on restraining uncontrolled proliferation. However, these cytotoxic therapies expose cancer cells to direct killing, instigating the process of natural selection favoring survival of resistant cells that become the foundation for tumor progression and therapy failure. Recognizing this phenomenon has prompted the development of alternative therapeutic strategies. Here we propose strategies targeting cancer hallmarks beyond proliferation, aiming at re-educating cancer cells towards a less malignant phenotype. These strategies include controlling cell dormancy, transdifferentiation therapy, normalizing the cancer microenvironment, and using migrastatic therapy. Adaptive resistance to these educative strategies does not confer a direct proliferative advantage to resistant cells, as non-resistant cells are not subject to eradication, thereby delaying or preventing the development of therapy-resistant tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aneta Škarková
- Department of Cell Biology, BIOCEV, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Vestec, Czech Republic
| | - Mariano Bizzarri
- System Biology Group Laboratory, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Radoslav Janoštiak
- First Faculty of Medicine, BIOCEV, Charles University, Vestec, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Mašek
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Daniel Rosel
- Department of Cell Biology, BIOCEV, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Vestec, Czech Republic.
| | - Jan Brábek
- Department of Cell Biology, BIOCEV, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Vestec, Czech Republic.
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2
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Bhartiya D, Raouf S, Pansare K, Tripathi A, Tripathi A. Initiation of Cancer: The Journey From Mutations in Somatic Cells to Epigenetic Changes in Tissue-resident VSELs. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2024; 20:857-880. [PMID: 38457060 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-024-10694-7] [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] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Multiple theories exist to explain cancer initiation, although a consensus on this is crucial for developing effective therapies. 'Somatic mutation theory' suggests that mutations in somatic cells during DNA repair initiates cancer but this concept has several attached paradoxes. Research efforts to identify quiescent cancer stem cells (CSCs) that survive therapy and result in metastasis and recurrence have remained futile. In solid cancers, CSCs are suggested to appear during epithelial-mesenchymal transition by the dedifferentiation and reprogramming of epithelial cells. Pluripotent and quiescent very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs) exist in multiple tissues but remain elusive owing to their small size and scarce nature. VSELs are developmentally connected to primordial germ cells, undergo rare, asymmetrical cell divisions and are responsible for the regular turnover of cells to maintain tissue homeostasis throughout life. VSELs are directly vulnerable to extrinsic endocrine insults because they express gonadal and gonadotropin hormone receptors. VSELs undergo epigenetic changes due to endocrine insults and transform into CSCs. CSCs exhibit genomic instability and develop mutations due to errors during DNA replication while undergoing excessive proliferation and clonal expansion to form spheroids. Thus tissue-resident VSELs offer a connection between extrinsic insults and variations in cancer incidence reported in various body tissues. To conclude, cancer is indeed a stem cell disease with mutations occurring as a consequence. In addition to immunotherapy, targeting mutations, and Lgr5 + organoids for developing new therapeutics, targeting CSCs (epigenetically altered VSELs) by improving their niche and epigenetic status could serve as a promising strategy to treat cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepa Bhartiya
- Epigeneres Biotech Pvt Ltd, Todi Mill Compound, Senapati Bapat Marg, Lower Parel, 400013, Mumbai, India.
| | | | - Kshama Pansare
- Epigeneres Biotech Pvt Ltd, Todi Mill Compound, Senapati Bapat Marg, Lower Parel, 400013, Mumbai, India
| | - Anish Tripathi
- Epigeneres Biotech Pvt Ltd, Todi Mill Compound, Senapati Bapat Marg, Lower Parel, 400013, Mumbai, India
| | - Ashish Tripathi
- Epigeneres Biotech Pvt Ltd, Todi Mill Compound, Senapati Bapat Marg, Lower Parel, 400013, Mumbai, India
- 23Ikigai Pte Ltd, 30 Cecil Street, #21-08 Prudentsial Tower, Singapore, 049712, Singapore
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3
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Abecia Martínez EI, Sanromán AC, Leon L, Monge LS, Zarza BE. Misleading images of ductal carcinoma in situ: 4 lymph nodes with metastasis. REVISTA ESPANOLA DE PATOLOGIA : PUBLICACION OFICIAL DE LA SOCIEDAD ESPANOLA DE ANATOMIA PATOLOGICA Y DE LA SOCIEDAD ESPANOLA DE CITOLOGIA 2023; 56:252-260. [PMID: 37879822 DOI: 10.1016/j.patol.2023.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
Since sentinel lymph node examination became routine, findings of benign ectopic breast tissue in lymph nodes have increased. We report images of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) in four lymph nodes in a 76-year-old woman with bilateral breast carcinoma. The right lumpectomy showed intermixed invasive lobular and ductal carcinoma, plus DCIS. 19 nodes were isolated in the axillary lymphadenectomy, 4 of which displayed solid and cribriform DCIS. Myosin and p63 immunohistochemical techniques were positive, suggesting an erroneous diagnosis of "metastatic DCIS". A further three cases of DCIS in lymph nodes have been previously reported, all with a distinct layer of myoepithelial cells with actin, myosin or p63. Biologically, these images of DCIS in lymph nodes are not credible and three major hypotheses have been proposed to explain these findings: Iatrogenic Mechanical Transport, Revertant DCIS, and primary DCIS of lymph nodes. We consider the first one the most plausible explanation. Our case is unique as several, rare findings are simultaneously observed. More new cases, together with additional immunohistochemical techniques and molecular testing on previous cases, are needed to find a definitive explanation of this histologic finding.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Liliana Leon
- Hospital Universitario Miguel Servet (Pathology), Zaragoza, Spain
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4
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Tsuchiya M, Brazhnik P, Bizzarri M, Giuliani A. Synchronization between Attractors: Genomic Mechanism of Cell-Fate Change. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11603. [PMID: 37511359 PMCID: PMC10380305 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411603] [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: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Herein, we provide a brief overview of complex systems theory approaches to investigate the genomic mechanism of cell-fate changes. Cell trajectories across the epigenetic landscape, whether in development, environmental responses, or disease progression, are controlled by extensively coordinated genome-wide gene expression changes. The elucidation of the mechanisms underlying these coherent expression changes is of fundamental importance in cell biology and for paving the road to new therapeutic approaches. In previous studies, we pointed at dynamic criticality as a plausible characteristic of genome-wide transition dynamics guiding cell fate. Whole-genome expression develops an engine-like organization (genome engine) in order to establish an autonomous dynamical system, capable of both homeostasis and transition behaviors. A critical set of genes behaves as a critical point (CP) that serves as the organizing center of cell-fate change. When the system is pushed away from homeostasis, the state change that occurs at the CP makes local perturbation spread over the genome, demonstrating self-organized critical (SOC) control of genome expression. Oscillating-Mode genes (which normally keep genome expression on pace with microenvironment fluctuations), when in the presence of an effective perturbative stimulus, drive the dynamics of synchronization, and thus guide the cell-fate transition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masa Tsuchiya
- SEIKO Life Science Laboratory, SEIKO Research Institute for Education, Osaka 540-6591, Japan
| | - Paul Brazhnik
- Academy of Integrated Science, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
| | - Mariano Bizzarri
- Systems Biology Group, Department of Experimental Medicine, University La Sapienza, 00163 Roma, Italy
| | - Alessandro Giuliani
- Environment and Health Department, Istituto Superiore di Sanitá, 00161 Rome, Italy
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5
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Donadon M, Palmisano A, Bizzarri M, Ceriani R, Veneroni L, Donati G, Tassinari D, Viola MG, Tamburini E, Torzilli G. Impact of Oocyte Extract Supplement on Quality of Life after Hepatectomy for Liver Tumours: A Prospective, Multicentre, Double-Blind Randomized Clinical Trial. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:2809. [PMID: 37345146 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15102809] [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: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 05/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies on oocyte extract supplementation showed benefits in patients with liver tumours. In this trial, we hypothesized that the oocyte extract supplement impacted the QoL after hepatectomy for hepatocellular carcinoma and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. METHODS This was a multicentre, double-blind, randomized clinical trial designed to assess the QoL of patients receiving a supplement of oocyte extract or placebo postoperatively. QoL was assessed using the Short Form-36 questionnaire in participants randomly assigned to treatment (Synchrolevels) or placebo. All study personnel and participants were masked to treatment assignment. The endpoint was the change in the QoL score. RESULTS Between June 2018 and September 2022, 66 of 128 expected patients were considered as per interim analysis, of which 33 were assigned to the treatment and 33 to the placebo group. Baseline and clinicopathological characteristics were similar between the two groups. In the treatment group, the health, mental and psychological status improved for many of the items considered, reaching statistical significance, while in the placebo group, those items either did not change or were impaired in comparison with the corresponding baseline. CONCLUSIONS Supplementation with oocyte extract modifies QoL after liver surgery by enhancing functional recovery. Further in-depth studies are required to confirm this evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Donadon
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Surgery, University Maggiore Hospital della Carità, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Department of Hepatobiliary and General Surgery, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, 20089 Rozzano, Italy
| | - Angela Palmisano
- Department of Hepatobiliary and General Surgery, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, 20089 Rozzano, Italy
| | - Mariano Bizzarri
- Systems Biology Group, Department of Experimental Medicine, University La Sapienza, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Ceriani
- Department of Internal Medicine and Hepatology, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, 20089 Rozzano, Italy
| | - Luigi Veneroni
- Department of General and Emergency Surgery, Infermi Hospital, Rimini AUSL Romagna, 47921 Rimini, Italy
| | - Gabriele Donati
- Department of Internal Medicine, Infermi Hospital, Rimini AUSL Romagna, 47921 Rimini, Italy
| | - Davide Tassinari
- Department of Oncology, Infermi Hospital, Rimini AUSL Romagna, 47921 Rimini, Italy
| | | | - Emiliano Tamburini
- Department of Oncology and Palliative Care, Cardinale Panico Hospital, 73039 Tricase, Italy
| | - Guido Torzilli
- Department of Hepatobiliary and General Surgery, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, 20089 Rozzano, Italy
- Department of Biomedical Science, Humanitas University, 20090 Pieve Emanuele, Italy
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6
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Pensotti A, Bertolaso M, Bizzarri M. Is Cancer Reversible? Rethinking Carcinogenesis Models-A New Epistemological Tool. Biomolecules 2023; 13:biom13050733. [PMID: 37238604 DOI: 10.3390/biom13050733] [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: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
A growing number of studies shows that it is possible to induce a phenotypic transformation of cancer cells from malignant to benign. This process is currently known as "tumor reversion". However, the concept of reversibility hardly fits the current cancer models, according to which gene mutations are considered the primary cause of cancer. Indeed, if gene mutations are causative carcinogenic factors, and if gene mutations are irreversible, how long should cancer be considered as an irreversible process? In fact, there is some evidence that intrinsic plasticity of cancerous cells may be therapeutically exploited to promote a phenotypic reprogramming, both in vitro and in vivo. Not only are studies on tumor reversion highlighting a new, exciting research approach, but they are also pushing science to look for new epistemological tools capable of better modeling cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Pensotti
- Research Unit of Philosophy of Science and Human Development, University Campus Bio-Medico of Rome, 00128 Rome, Italy
- Systems Biology Group Lab, Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Marta Bertolaso
- Research Unit of Philosophy of Science and Human Development, University Campus Bio-Medico of Rome, 00128 Rome, Italy
| | - Mariano Bizzarri
- Systems Biology Group Lab, Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University, 00185 Rome, Italy
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Monti N, Dinicola S, Querqui A, Fabrizi G, Fedeli V, Gesualdi L, Catizone A, Unfer V, Bizzarri M. Myo-Inositol Reverses TGF-β1-Induced EMT in MCF-10A Non-Tumorigenic Breast Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15082317. [PMID: 37190245 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15082317] [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: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT), triggered by external and internal cues in several physiological and pathological conditions, elicits the transformation of epithelial cells into a mesenchymal-like phenotype. During EMT, epithelial cells lose cell-to-cell contact and acquire unusual motility/invasive capabilities. The associated architectural and functional changes destabilize the epithelial layer consistency, allowing cells to migrate and invade the surrounding tissues. EMT is a critical step in the progression of inflammation and cancer, often sustained by a main driving factor as the transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1). Antagonizing EMT has recently gained momentum as an attractive issue in cancer treatment and metastasis prevention. Herein, we demonstrate the capability of myo-inositol (myo-Ins) to revert the EMT process induced by TGF-β1 on MCF-10A breast cells. Upon TGF-β1 addition, cells underwent a dramatic phenotypic transformation, as witnessed by structural (disappearance of the E-cadherin-β-catenin complexes and the emergence of a mesenchymal shape) and molecular modifications (increase in N-cadherin, Snai1, and vimentin), including the release of increased collagen and fibronectin. However, following myo-Ins, those changes were almost completely reverted. Inositol promotes the reconstitution of E-cadherin-β-catenin complexes, decreasing the expression of genes involved in EMT, while promoting the re-expression of epithelial genes (keratin-18 and E-cadherin). Noticeably, myo-Ins efficiently inhibits the invasiveness and migrating capability of TGF-β1 treated cells, also reducing the release of metalloproteinase (MMP-9) altogether with collagen synthesis, allowing for the re-establishment of appropriate cell-to-cell junctions, ultimately leading the cell layer back towards a more compact state. Inositol effects were nullified by previous treatment with an siRNA construct to inhibit CDH1 transcripts and, hence, E-cadherin synthesis. This finding suggests that the reconstitution of E-cadherin complexes is an irreplaceable step in the inositol-induced reversion of EMT. Overall, such a result advocates for the useful role of myo-Ins in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noemi Monti
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, 00161 Rome, Italy
- Systems Biology Group Laboratory, Sapienza University, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Simona Dinicola
- Systems Biology Group Laboratory, Sapienza University, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Querqui
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, 00161 Rome, Italy
- Systems Biology Group Laboratory, Sapienza University, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Gianmarco Fabrizi
- Systems Biology Group Laboratory, Sapienza University, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Valeria Fedeli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, 00161 Rome, Italy
- Systems Biology Group Laboratory, Sapienza University, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Luisa Gesualdi
- Section of Histology and Embryology, Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedics, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Angela Catizone
- Section of Histology and Embryology, Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopedics, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Vittorio Unfer
- Systems Biology Group Laboratory, Sapienza University, 00161 Rome, Italy
- The Experts Group on Inositol in Basic and Clinical Research (EGOI), 00161 Rome, Italy
- Gynecology Department, UniCamillus-Saint Camillus International University of Health and Medical Sciences, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Mariano Bizzarri
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, 00161 Rome, Italy
- Systems Biology Group Laboratory, Sapienza University, 00161 Rome, Italy
- The Experts Group on Inositol in Basic and Clinical Research (EGOI), 00161 Rome, Italy
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8
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Shin D, Cho KH. Critical transition and reversion of tumorigenesis. Exp Mol Med 2023; 55:692-705. [PMID: 37009794 PMCID: PMC10167317 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-023-00969-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is caused by the accumulation of genetic alterations and therefore has been historically considered to be irreversible. Intriguingly, several studies have reported that cancer cells can be reversed to be normal cells under certain circumstances. Despite these experimental observations, conceptual and theoretical frameworks that explain these phenomena and enable their exploration in a systematic way are lacking. In this review, we provide an overview of cancer reversion studies and describe recent advancements in systems biological approaches based on attractor landscape analysis. We suggest that the critical transition in tumorigenesis is an important clue for achieving cancer reversion. During tumorigenesis, a critical transition may occur at a tipping point, where cells undergo abrupt changes and reach a new equilibrium state that is determined by complex intracellular regulatory events. We introduce a conceptual framework based on attractor landscapes through which we can investigate the critical transition in tumorigenesis and induce its reversion by combining intracellular molecular perturbation and extracellular signaling controls. Finally, we present a cancer reversion therapy approach that may be a paradigm-changing alternative to current cancer cell-killing therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongkwan Shin
- Department of Bio and Brain Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
- Reasearch Institute, National Cancer Center, Goyang, 10408, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwang-Hyun Cho
- Department of Bio and Brain Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea.
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9
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Demicheli R, Hrushesky WJM. Reimagining Cancer: Moving from the Cellular to the Tissue Level. Cancer Res 2023; 83:173-180. [PMID: 36264185 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-22-1601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
The current universally accepted explanation of cancer origin and behavior, the somatic mutation theory, is cell-centered and rooted in perturbation of gene function independent of the external environmental context. However, tumors consist of various epithelial and stromal cell populations temporally and spatially organized into an integrated neoplastic community, and they can have properties similar to normal tissues. Accordingly, we review specific normal cellular and tissue traits and behaviors with adaptive temporal and spatial self-organization that result in ordered patterns and structures. A few recent theories have described these tissue-level cancer behaviors, invoking a conceptual shift from the cellular level and highlighting the need for methodologic approaches based on the analysis of complex systems. We propose extending the analytical approach of regulatory networks to the tissue level and introduce the concept of "cancer attractors." These concepts require reevaluation of cancer imaging and investigational approaches and challenge the traditional reductionist approach of cancer molecular biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romano Demicheli
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (DIBIC) "L. Sacco" & DSRC, LITA Vialba Campus, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - William J M Hrushesky
- School of Medicine and College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina.,WJB Dorn VA Medical Center, Columbia, South Carolina
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10
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Bizzarri M, Fedeli V, Piombarolo A, Angeloni A. Space Biomedicine: A Unique Opportunity to Rethink the Relationships between Physics and Biology. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10102633. [PMID: 36289894 PMCID: PMC9599147 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10102633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Space biomedicine has provided significant technological breakthroughs by developing new medical devices, diagnostic tools, and health-supporting systems. Many of these products are currently in use onboard the International Space Station and have been successfully translated into clinical practice on Earth. However, biomedical research performed in space has disclosed exciting, new perspectives regarding the relationships between physics and medicine, thus fostering the rethinking of the theoretical basis of biology. In particular, these studies have stressed the critical role that biophysical forces play in shaping the function and pattern formation of living structures. The experimental models investigated under microgravity conditions allow us to appreciate the complexity of living organisms through a very different perspective. Indeed, biological entities should be conceived as a unique magnification of physical laws driven by local energy and order states overlaid by selection history and constraints, in which the source of the inheritance, variation, and process of selection has expanded from the classical Darwinian definition. The very specific nature of the field in which living organisms behave and evolve in a space environment can be exploited to decipher the underlying, basic processes and mechanisms that are not apparent on Earth. In turn, these findings can provide novel opportunities for testing pharmacological countermeasures that can be instrumental for managing a wide array of health problems and diseases on Earth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariano Bizzarri
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University La Sapienza, 00161 Rome, Italy
- Systems Biology Group Lab, Dip. “P.Valdoni”, University La Sapienza, 00161 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Valeria Fedeli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University La Sapienza, 00161 Rome, Italy
- Systems Biology Group Lab, Dip. “P.Valdoni”, University La Sapienza, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Aurora Piombarolo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University La Sapienza, 00161 Rome, Italy
- Systems Biology Group Lab, Dip. “P.Valdoni”, University La Sapienza, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Angeloni
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University La Sapienza, 00161 Rome, Italy
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11
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Guglielmo M, Marta B. Stem Cells and the Microenvironment: Reciprocity with Asymmetry in Regenerative Medicine. Acta Biotheor 2022; 70:24. [PMID: 35962861 DOI: 10.1007/s10441-022-09448-0] [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: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Much of the current research in regenerative medicine concentrates on stem-cell therapy that exploits the regenerative capacities of stem cells when injected into different types of human tissues. Although new therapeutic paths have been opened up by induced pluripotent cells and human mesenchymal cells, the rate of success is still low and mainly due to the difficulties of managing cell proliferation and differentiation, giving rise to non-controlled stem cell differentiation that ultimately leads to cancer. Despite being still far from becoming a reality, these studies highlight the role of physical and biological constraints (e.g., cues and morphogenetic fields) placed by tissue microenvironment on stem cell fate. This asks for a clarification of the coupling of stem cells and microenvironmental factors in regenerative medicine. We argue that extracellular matrix and stem cells have a causal reciprocal and asymmetric relationship in that the 3D organization and composition of the extracellular matrix establish a spatial, temporal, and mechanical control over the fate of stem cells, which enable them to interact and control (as well as be controlled by) the cellular components and soluble factors of microenvironment. Such an account clarifies the notions of stemness and stem cell regeneration consistently with that of microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Militello Guglielmo
- IAS-Research Centre, University of the Basque Country, San Sebastián, Spain.
| | - Bertolaso Marta
- University Campus Bio-Medico of Rome, Institute of Scientific and Technological Practice, Rome, Italy
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12
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Monti N, Verna R, Piombarolo A, Querqui A, Bizzarri M, Fedeli V. Paradoxical Behavior of Oncogenes Undermines the Somatic Mutation Theory. Biomolecules 2022; 12:662. [PMID: 35625590 PMCID: PMC9138429 DOI: 10.3390/biom12050662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The currently accepted theory on the influence of DNA mutations on carcinogenesis (the Somatic Mutation Theory, SMT) is facing an increasing number of controversial results that undermine the explanatory power of mutated genes considered as "causative" factors. Intriguing results have demonstrated that several critical genes may act differently, as oncogenes or tumor suppressors, while phenotypic reversion of cancerous cells/tissues can be achieved by modifying the microenvironment, the mutations they are carrying notwithstanding. Furthermore, a high burden of mutations has been identified in many non-cancerous tissues without any apparent pathological consequence. All things considered, a relevant body of unexplained inconsistencies calls for an in depth rewiring of our theoretical models. Ignoring these paradoxes is no longer sustainable. By avoiding these conundrums, the scientific community will deprive itself of the opportunity to achieve real progress in this important biomedical field. To remedy this situation, we need to embrace new theoretical perspectives, taking the cell-microenvironment interplay as the privileged pathogenetic level of observation, and by assuming new explanatory models based on truly different premises. New theoretical frameworks dawned in the last two decades principally focus on the complex interaction between cells and their microenvironment, which is thought to be the critical level from which carcinogenesis arises. Indeed, both molecular and biophysical components of the stroma can dramatically drive cell fate commitment and cell outcome in opposite directions, even in the presence of the same stimulus. Therefore, such a novel approach can help in solving apparently inextricable paradoxes that are increasingly observed in cancer biology.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Valeria Fedeli
- Systems Biology Group Lab, Department of Experimental Medicine, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, 00161 Rome, Italy; (N.M.); (R.V.); (A.P.); (A.Q.); (M.B.)
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13
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Kasperski A. Life Entrapped in a Network of Atavistic Attractors: How to Find a Rescue. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23074017. [PMID: 35409376 PMCID: PMC8999494 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23074017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In view of unified cell bioenergetics, cell bioenergetic problems related to cell overenergization can cause excessive disturbances in current cell fate and, as a result, lead to a change of cell-fate. At the onset of the problem, cell overenergization of multicellular organisms (especially overenergization of mitochondria) is solved inter alia by activation and then stimulation of the reversible Crabtree effect by cells. Unfortunately, this apparently good solution can also lead to a much bigger problem when, despite the activation of the Crabtree effect, cell overenergization persists for a long time. In such a case, cancer transformation, along with the Warburg effect, may occur to further reduce or stop the charging of mitochondria by high-energy molecules. Understanding the phenomena of cancer transformation and cancer development has become a real challenge for humanity. To date, many models have been developed to understand cancer-related mechanisms. Nowadays, combining all these models into one coherent universal model of cancer transformation and development can be considered a new challenge. In this light, the aim of this article is to present such a potentially universal model supported by a proposed new model of cellular functionality evolution. The methods of fighting cancer resulting from unified cell bioenergetics and the two presented models are also considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrzej Kasperski
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Biotechnology, Laboratory of Bioinformatics and Control of Bioprocesses, University of Zielona Góra, ul. Szafrana 1, 65-516 Zielona Góra, Poland
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Stem Cell Theory of Cancer: Origin of Tumor Heterogeneity and Plasticity. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13164006. [PMID: 34439162 PMCID: PMC8394880 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13164006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In many respects, heterogeneity is one of the most striking revelations and common manifestations of a stem cell origin of cancer. We observe heterogeneity in myriad mixed tumors including testicular, lung, and breast cancers. We recognize heterogeneity in diverse tumor subtypes in prostate and kidney cancers. From this perspective, we illustrate that one of the main stem-ness characteristics, i.e., the ability to differentiate into diverse and multiple lineages, is central to tumor heterogeneity. We postulate that cancer subtypes can be meaningless and useless without a proper theory about cancer's stem cell versus genetic origin and nature. We propose a unified theory of cancer in which the same genetic abnormalities, epigenetic defects, and microenvironmental aberrations cause different effects and lead to different outcomes in a progenitor stem cell versus a mature progeny cell. We need to recognize that an all-encompassing genetic theory of cancer may be incomplete and obsolete. A stem cell theory of cancer provides greater universality, interconnectivity, and utility. Although genetic defects are pivotal, cellular context is paramount. When it concerns tumor heterogeneity, perhaps we need to revisit the conventional wisdom of precision medicine and revise our current practice of targeted therapy in cancer care.
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Critical transition across the Waddington landscape as an interpretative model: Comment on "Dynamic and thermodynamic models of adaptation" by A.N. Gorban et al. Phys Life Rev 2021; 38:115-119. [PMID: 34116954 DOI: 10.1016/j.plrev.2021.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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