1
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Pinjusic K, Bulliard M, Rothé B, Ansaryan S, Liu YC, Ginefra P, Schmuziger C, Altug H, Constam DB. Stepwise release of Activin-A from its inhibitory prodomain is modulated by cysteines and requires furin coexpression to promote melanoma growth. Commun Biol 2024; 7:1383. [PMID: 39448726 PMCID: PMC11502825 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-024-07053-0] [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: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 10/11/2024] [Indexed: 10/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The Activin-A precursor dimer can be cleaved by furin, but how this proteolytic maturation is regulated in vivo and how it facilitates access to signaling receptors is unclear. Here, analysis in a syngeneic melanoma grafting model shows that without furin coexpression, Activin-A failed to accelerate tumor growth, correlating with failure of one or both subunits to undergo cleavage in signal-sending cells, even though compensatory processing by host cells nonetheless sustained elevated circulating Activin-A levels. In reporter assays, furin-independent cleavage of one subunit enabled juxtacrine Activin-A signaling, whereas completion of proteolytic maturation by coexpressed furin or by recipient cells stimulated contact-independent activity, crosstalk with BMP receptors, and signal inhibition by follistatin. Mechanistically, Activin-A processing was modulated by allosteric disulfide bonds flanking the furin site. Disruption of these disulfide linkages with the prodomain enabled Activin-A binding to cognate type II receptors independently of proteolytic maturation. Stepwise proteolytic maturation is a novel mechanism to control Activin-A protein interactions and signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarina Pinjusic
- Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) SV ISREC, Station 19, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Manon Bulliard
- Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) SV ISREC, Station 19, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Benjamin Rothé
- Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) SV ISREC, Station 19, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Saeid Ansaryan
- Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) STI IBI-STI BIOS BM, Station 17, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Yeng-Cheng Liu
- Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) STI IBI-STI BIOS BM, Station 17, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Pierpaolo Ginefra
- Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) SV ISREC, Station 19, Lausanne, Switzerland
- University of Lausanne, Department of Oncology, Ludwig Cancer Institute, Epalinges, Switzerland
| | - Céline Schmuziger
- Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) SV ISREC, Station 19, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Hatice Altug
- Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) STI IBI-STI BIOS BM, Station 17, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Daniel B Constam
- Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) SV ISREC, Station 19, Lausanne, Switzerland.
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2
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Tang J, Zheng Q, Wang Q, Zhao Y, Ananthanarayanan P, Reina C, Šabanović B, Jiang K, Yang MH, Meny CC, Wang H, Agerbaek MØ, Clausen TM, Gustavsson T, Wen C, Borghi F, Mellano A, Fenocchio E, Gregorc V, Sapino A, Theander TG, Fu D, Aicher A, Salanti A, Shen B, Heeschen C. CTC-derived pancreatic cancer models serve as research tools and are suitable for precision medicine approaches. Cell Rep Med 2024; 5:101692. [PMID: 39163864 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2024.101692] [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: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 05/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/22/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) poses significant clinical challenges, often presenting as unresectable with limited biopsy options. Here, we show that circulating tumor cells (CTCs) offer a promising alternative, serving as a "liquid biopsy" that enables the generation of in vitro 3D models and highly aggressive in vivo models for functional and molecular studies in advanced PDAC. Within the retrieved CTC pool (median 65 CTCs/5 mL), we identify a subset (median content 8.9%) of CXCR4+ CTCs displaying heightened stemness and metabolic traits, reminiscent of circulating cancer stem cells. Through comprehensive analysis, we elucidate the importance of CTC-derived models for identifying potential targets and guiding treatment strategies. Screening of stemness-targeting compounds identified stearoyl-coenzyme A desaturase (SCD1) as a promising target for advanced PDAC. These results underscore the pivotal role of CTC-derived models in uncovering therapeutic avenues and ultimately advancing personalized care in PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiajia Tang
- Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China; State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Quan Zheng
- Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China; State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Qi Wang
- Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China; State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Yaru Zhao
- Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China; State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Preeta Ananthanarayanan
- Pancreatic Cancer Heterogeneity, Candiolo Cancer Institute FPO-IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo, Turin, Italy
| | - Chiara Reina
- Pancreatic Cancer Heterogeneity, Candiolo Cancer Institute FPO-IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo, Turin, Italy
| | - Berina Šabanović
- Pancreatic Cancer Heterogeneity, Candiolo Cancer Institute FPO-IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo, Turin, Italy
| | - Ke Jiang
- Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China; State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Ming-Hsin Yang
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei 114, Taiwan
| | - Clara Csilla Meny
- 2(nd) Institute for Pathology and Experimental Oncology Research, Semmelweis University, 1085 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Huimin Wang
- Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China; State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Mette Ø Agerbaek
- Centre for Translational Medicine and Parasitology (CMP) at Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark; VarCT Diagnostics, Ole Maaloes vej 3, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Thomas Mandel Clausen
- Centre for Translational Medicine and Parasitology (CMP) at Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - Tobias Gustavsson
- Centre for Translational Medicine and Parasitology (CMP) at Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark; VAR2Pharmaceuticals, Ole Maaloes vej 3, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Chenlei Wen
- Research Institute of Pancreatic Disease, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Pancreatic Disease Centre, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Institute of Digestive Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Felice Borghi
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Cancer Institute FPO-IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo, Turin, Italy
| | - Alfredo Mellano
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Cancer Institute FPO-IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo, Turin, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Fenocchio
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Institute FPO-IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo, Turin, Italy
| | - Vanesa Gregorc
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Institute FPO-IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo, Turin, Italy
| | - Anna Sapino
- Department of Pathology, Cancer Institute FPO-IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo, Turin, Italy
| | - Thor G Theander
- Centre for Translational Medicine and Parasitology (CMP) at Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - Da Fu
- Research Institute of Pancreatic Disease, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Pancreatic Disease Centre, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Institute of Digestive Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Alexandra Aicher
- Precision Immunotherapy, Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung 404328, Taiwan; Immunology Research and Development Center, China Medical University, Taichung 404328, Taiwan
| | - Ali Salanti
- Centre for Translational Medicine and Parasitology (CMP) at Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - Baiyong Shen
- Research Institute of Pancreatic Disease, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Pancreatic Disease Centre, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Institute of Digestive Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Christopher Heeschen
- Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China; State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China; Pancreatic Cancer Heterogeneity, Candiolo Cancer Institute FPO-IRCCS, 10060 Candiolo, Turin, Italy.
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3
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Moond V, Maniyar B, Harne PS, Bailey-Lundberg JM, Thosani NC. Harnessing endoscopic ultrasound-guided radiofrequency ablation to reshape the pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma microenvironment and elicit systemic immunomodulation. EXPLORATION OF TARGETED ANTI-TUMOR THERAPY 2024; 5:1056-1073. [PMID: 39351436 PMCID: PMC11438557 DOI: 10.37349/etat.2024.00263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 10/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is characterized by poor prognostics and substantial therapeutic challenges, with dismal survival rates. Tumor resistance in PDAC is primarily attributed to its fibrotic, hypoxic, and immune-suppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). Endoscopic ultrasound-guided radiofrequency ablation (EUS-RFA), an Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved minimally invasive technique for treating pancreatic cancer, disrupts tumors with heat and induces coagulative necrosis, releasing tumor antigens that may trigger a systemic immune response-the abscopal effect. We aim to elucidate the roles of EUS-RFA-mediated thermal and mechanical stress in enhancing anti-tumor immunity in PDAC. A comprehensive literature review focused on radiofrequency immunomodulation and immunotherapy in pancreatic tumors to understand the pathophysiological mechanisms of RFA and its effect on the TME, which could prevent recurrence and resistance. We reviewed clinical, preclinical, and in vitro studies on RFA mechanisms in pancreatic adenocarcinoma, discussing the unique immunomodulatory effects of EUS-RFA. Recent findings suggest that combining RFA with immune adjuvants enhances responses in pancreatic adenocarcinoma. EUS-RFA offers a dual benefit against PDAC by directly reducing tumor viability and indirectly enhancing anti-tumor immunity. Observations of neutrophil-mediated immunomodulation and programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) modulation support integrating EUS-RFA with targeted immunotherapies for managing pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Integrating EUS-RFA in PDAC treatment promises direct cytoreduction and synergistic effects with molecular targeted therapies. Prospective clinical trials are crucial to assess the efficacy of this combined approach in improving outcomes and survival rates in advanced PDAC cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vishali Moond
- Department of Internal Medicine, Saint Peter’s University Hospital/Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
| | - Bhumi Maniyar
- Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Prateek Suresh Harne
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston McGovern Medical School, Houston TX 77030, USA
| | - Jennifer M. Bailey-Lundberg
- Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Nirav C. Thosani
- Department of Internal Medicine, Saint Peter’s University Hospital/Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
- Division of Elective Surgery and Interventional Gastroenterology, Department of Surgery, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston TX 77030, USA
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4
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Löhr JM. Pancreas 2000. My journey with the central organ. Pancreatology 2024; 24:671-676. [PMID: 38641487 DOI: 10.1016/j.pan.2024.03.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
The European Pancreatic Club Lifetime Achievement Award is a distinction awarded for research on the pancreas and service to European Pancreatology. It comes with the obligation to submit a review article to our society's journal, Pancreatology. It was awarded to me 2023 and I take this opportunity to highlight my journey with the central organ AKA the pancreas, that is inseparatable from "Pancreas 2000" - an educational program for future pancreatologists, inaugurated by Karolinska Institutet.
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Affiliation(s)
- J-Matthias Löhr
- Karolinska Institutet, Alfred Nobels Allé 8, S-141 86, Stockholm, Sweden.
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5
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Li S, Luo X, Sun M, Wang Y, Zhang Z, Jiang J, Hu D, Zhang J, Wu Z, Wang Y, Huang W, Xia L. Context-dependent T-BOX transcription factor family: from biology to targeted therapy. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:350. [PMID: 38965548 PMCID: PMC11225425 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01719-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024] Open
Abstract
T-BOX factors belong to an evolutionarily conserved family of transcription factors. T-BOX factors not only play key roles in growth and development but are also involved in immunity, cancer initiation, and progression. Moreover, the same T-BOX molecule exhibits different or even opposite effects in various developmental processes and tumor microenvironments. Understanding the multiple roles of context-dependent T-BOX factors in malignancies is vital for uncovering the potential of T-BOX-targeted cancer therapy. We summarize the physiological roles of T-BOX factors in different developmental processes and their pathological roles observed when their expression is dysregulated. We also discuss their regulatory roles in tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) and the newly arising questions that remain unresolved. This review will help in systematically and comprehensively understanding the vital role of the T-BOX transcription factor family in tumor physiology, pathology, and immunity. The intention is to provide valuable information to support the development of T-BOX-targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siwen Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, 430030, China
| | - Xiangyuan Luo
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, 430030, China
| | - Mengyu Sun
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, 430030, China
| | - Yijun Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, 430030, China
| | - Zerui Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, 430030, China
| | - Junqing Jiang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, 430030, China
| | - Dian Hu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, 430030, China
| | - Jiaqian Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, 430030, China
| | - Zhangfan Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, 430030, China
| | - Yufei Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, 430030, China
| | - Wenjie Huang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, 430030, China.
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Clinical Medicine Research Center for Hepatic Surgery of Hubei Province, Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Ministry of Education and Ministry of Public Health, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, China.
| | - Limin Xia
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, 430030, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers, National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China.
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6
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Ibello E, Saracino F, Delle Cave D, Buonaiuto S, Amoroso F, Andolfi G, Corona M, Guardiola O, Colonna V, Sainz B, Altucci L, De Cesare D, Cobellis G, Lonardo E, Patriarca EJ, D'Aniello C, Minchiotti G. Three-dimensional environment sensitizes pancreatic cancer cells to the anti-proliferative effect of budesonide by reprogramming energy metabolism. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2024; 43:165. [PMID: 38877560 PMCID: PMC11177459 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-024-03072-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the most lethal cancer with an aggressive metastatic phenotype and very poor clinical prognosis. Interestingly, a lower occurrence of PDAC has been described in individuals with severe and long-standing asthma. Here we explored the potential link between PDAC and the glucocorticoid (GC) budesonide, a first-line therapy to treat asthma. METHODS We tested the effect of budesonide and the classical GCs on the morphology, proliferation, migration and invasiveness of patient-derived PDAC cells and pancreatic cancer cell lines, using 2D and 3D cultures in vitro. Furthermore, a xenograft model was used to investigate the effect of budesonide on PDAC tumor growth in vivo. Finally, we combined genome-wide transcriptome analysis with genetic and pharmacological approaches to explore the mechanisms underlying budesonide activities in the different environmental conditions. RESULTS We found that in 2D culture settings, high micromolar concentrations of budesonide reduced the mesenchymal invasive/migrating features of PDAC cells, without affecting proliferation or survival. This activity was specific and independent of the Glucocorticoid Receptor (GR). Conversely, in a more physiological 3D environment, low nanomolar concentrations of budesonide strongly reduced PDAC cell proliferation in a GR-dependent manner. Accordingly, we found that budesonide reduced PDAC tumor growth in vivo. Mechanistically, we demonstrated that the 3D environment drives the cells towards a general metabolic reprogramming involving protein, lipid, and energy metabolism (e.g., increased glycolysis dependency). This metabolic change sensitizes PDAC cells to the anti-proliferative effect of budesonide, which instead induces opposite changes (e.g., increased mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation). Finally, we provide evidence that budesonide inhibits PDAC growth, at least in part, through the tumor suppressor CDKN1C/p57Kip2. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, our study reveals that the microenvironment influences the susceptibility of PDAC cells to GCs and provides unprecedented evidence for the anti-proliferative activity of budesonide on PDAC cells in 3D conditions, in vitro and in vivo. Our findings may explain, at least in part, the reason for the lower occurrence of pancreatic cancer in asthmatic patients and suggest a potential suitability of budesonide for clinical trials as a therapeutic approach to fight pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo Ibello
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics, 'A. Buzzati-Traverso', CNR, Naples, Italy
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Federica Saracino
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics, 'A. Buzzati-Traverso', CNR, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Silvia Buonaiuto
- Department of Genetics, Genomics and Informatics, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Filomena Amoroso
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics, 'A. Buzzati-Traverso', CNR, Naples, Italy
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Gennaro Andolfi
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics, 'A. Buzzati-Traverso', CNR, Naples, Italy
| | - Marco Corona
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics, 'A. Buzzati-Traverso', CNR, Naples, Italy
| | - Ombretta Guardiola
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics, 'A. Buzzati-Traverso', CNR, Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenza Colonna
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics, 'A. Buzzati-Traverso', CNR, Naples, Italy
- Department of Genetics, Genomics and Informatics, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Bruno Sainz
- Department of Cancer, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomedicas Sols-Morreale (IIBM), CSIC- UAM, Madrid, 28029, Spain
- Cancer, Area 3-Instituto Ramon Y Cajal de Investigacion Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Madrid, 28034, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red, Área Cáncer, CIBERONC, ISCIII, Madrid, 28029, Spain
| | - Lucia Altucci
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
- BIOGEM, Ariano Irpino, Ariano Irpino, AV, 83031, Italy
- IEOS-CNR, Naples, 80100, Italy
- Medical Epigenetics Program, AOU Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Dario De Cesare
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics, 'A. Buzzati-Traverso', CNR, Naples, Italy
| | - Gilda Cobellis
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Enza Lonardo
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics, 'A. Buzzati-Traverso', CNR, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Cristina D'Aniello
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics, 'A. Buzzati-Traverso', CNR, Naples, Italy.
| | - Gabriella Minchiotti
- Institute of Genetics and Biophysics, 'A. Buzzati-Traverso', CNR, Naples, Italy.
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7
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Zhang M, Guo T, Pei F, Feng J, Jing J, Xu J, Yamada T, Ho TV, Du J, Sehgal P, Chai Y. ARID1B maintains mesenchymal stem cell quiescence via inhibition of BCL11B-mediated non-canonical Activin signaling. Nat Commun 2024; 15:4614. [PMID: 38816354 PMCID: PMC11139927 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-48285-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
ARID1B haploinsufficiency in humans causes Coffin-Siris syndrome, associated with developmental delay, facial dysmorphism, and intellectual disability. The role of ARID1B has been widely studied in neuronal development, but whether it also regulates stem cells remains unknown. Here, we employ scRNA-seq and scATAC-seq to dissect the regulatory functions and mechanisms of ARID1B within mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) using the mouse incisor model. We reveal that loss of Arid1b in the GLI1+ MSC lineage disturbs MSCs' quiescence and leads to their proliferation due to the ectopic activation of non-canonical Activin signaling via p-ERK. Furthermore, loss of Arid1b upregulates Bcl11b, which encodes a BAF complex subunit that modulates non-canonical Activin signaling by directly regulating the expression of activin A subunit, Inhba. Reduction of Bcl11b or non-canonical Activin signaling restores the MSC population in Arid1b mutant mice. Notably, we have identified that ARID1B suppresses Bcl11b expression via specific binding to its third intron, unveiling the direct inter-regulatory interactions among BAF subunits in MSCs. Our results demonstrate the vital role of ARID1B as an epigenetic modifier in maintaining MSC homeostasis and reveal its intricate mechanistic regulatory network in vivo, providing novel insights into the linkage between chromatin remodeling and stem cell fate determination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingyi Zhang
- Center for Craniofacial Molecular Biology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
| | - Tingwei Guo
- Center for Craniofacial Molecular Biology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
| | - Fei Pei
- Center for Craniofacial Molecular Biology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
| | - Jifan Feng
- Center for Craniofacial Molecular Biology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
| | - Junjun Jing
- Center for Craniofacial Molecular Biology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
| | - Jian Xu
- Center for Craniofacial Molecular Biology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
| | - Takahiko Yamada
- Center for Craniofacial Molecular Biology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
| | - Thach-Vu Ho
- Center for Craniofacial Molecular Biology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
| | - Jiahui Du
- Center for Craniofacial Molecular Biology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
| | - Prerna Sehgal
- Center for Craniofacial Molecular Biology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA
| | - Yang Chai
- Center for Craniofacial Molecular Biology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA.
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8
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Chang CH, Liu F, Militi S, Hester S, Nibhani R, Deng S, Dunford J, Rendek A, Soonawalla Z, Fischer R, Oppermann U, Pauklin S. The pRb/RBL2-E2F1/4-GCN5 axis regulates cancer stem cell formation and G0 phase entry/exit by paracrine mechanisms. Nat Commun 2024; 15:3580. [PMID: 38678032 PMCID: PMC11055877 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-47680-z] [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: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
The lethality, chemoresistance and metastatic characteristics of cancers are associated with phenotypically plastic cancer stem cells (CSCs). How the non-cell autonomous signalling pathways and cell-autonomous transcriptional machinery orchestrate the stem cell-like characteristics of CSCs is still poorly understood. Here we use a quantitative proteomic approach for identifying secreted proteins of CSCs in pancreatic cancer. We uncover that the cell-autonomous E2F1/4-pRb/RBL2 axis balances non-cell-autonomous signalling in healthy ductal cells but becomes deregulated upon KRAS mutation. E2F1 and E2F4 induce whereas pRb/RBL2 reduce WNT ligand expression (e.g. WNT7A, WNT7B, WNT10A, WNT4) thereby regulating self-renewal, chemoresistance and invasiveness of CSCs in both PDAC and breast cancer, and fibroblast proliferation. Screening for epigenetic enzymes identifies GCN5 as a regulator of CSCs that deposits H3K9ac onto WNT promoters and enhancers. Collectively, paracrine signalling pathways are controlled by the E2F-GCN5-RB axis in diverse cancers and this could be a therapeutic target for eliminating CSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao-Hui Chang
- Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, Botnar Research Centre, University of Oxford, Old Road, Oxford, OX3 7LD, UK
| | - Feng Liu
- Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, Botnar Research Centre, University of Oxford, Old Road, Oxford, OX3 7LD, UK
| | - Stefania Militi
- Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, Botnar Research Centre, University of Oxford, Old Road, Oxford, OX3 7LD, UK
| | - Svenja Hester
- Target Discovery Institute, Nuffield Department of Medicine, Old Road, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7FZ, UK
| | - Reshma Nibhani
- Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, Botnar Research Centre, University of Oxford, Old Road, Oxford, OX3 7LD, UK
| | - Siwei Deng
- Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, Botnar Research Centre, University of Oxford, Old Road, Oxford, OX3 7LD, UK
| | - James Dunford
- Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, Botnar Research Centre, University of Oxford, Old Road, Oxford, OX3 7LD, UK
| | - Aniko Rendek
- Department of Histopathology, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Zahir Soonawalla
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Oxford University Hospitals NHS, Oxford, UK
| | - Roman Fischer
- Target Discovery Institute, Nuffield Department of Medicine, Old Road, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7FZ, UK
| | - Udo Oppermann
- Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, Botnar Research Centre, University of Oxford, Old Road, Oxford, OX3 7LD, UK
| | - Siim Pauklin
- Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, Botnar Research Centre, University of Oxford, Old Road, Oxford, OX3 7LD, UK.
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9
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Elkoshi Z. TGF-β, IL-1β, IL-6 levels and TGF-β/Smad pathway reactivity regulate the link between allergic diseases, cancer risk, and metabolic dysregulations. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1371753. [PMID: 38629073 PMCID: PMC11019030 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1371753] [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: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
The risk of cancer is higher in patients with asthma compared to those with allergic rhinitis for many types of cancer, except for certain cancers where a contrasting pattern is observed. This study offers a potential explanation for these observations, proposing that the premalignant levels of circulating transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), IL-1β, and IL-6 as well as the reactivity of the TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway at the specific cancer site, are crucial factors contributing to the observed disparities. Circulating TGF-β, IL- β and IL-6 levels also help clarify why asthma is positively associated with obesity, Type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and insulin resistance, whereas allergic rhinitis is negatively linked to these conditions. Furthermore, TGF-β/Smad pathway reactivity explains the dual impact of obesity, increasing the risk of certain types of cancer while offering protection against other types of cancer. It is suggested that the association of asthma with cancer and metabolic dysregulations is primarily linked to the subtype of neutrophilic asthma. A binary classification of TGF-β activity as either high (in the presence of IL-1β and IL-6) or low (in the presence or absence of IL-1β and IL-6) is proposed to differentiate between allergy patients prone to cancer and metabolic dysregulations and those less prone. Glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation, the two major metabolic pathways utilized by cells for energy exploitation, potentially underlie this dichotomous classification by reprogramming metabolic pathways in immune cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeev Elkoshi
- Research and Development Department, Taro Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd, Haifa, Israel
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10
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Lane IC, Kembuan G, Carreiro J, Kann MC, Lin W, Bouffard AA, Kreuzer J, Morris R, Schneider EM, Kim JY, Zou C, Salas-Benito D, Gasser JA, Leick MB, Słabicki M, Haas W, Maus MV, Jan M. Genetic retargeting of E3 ligases to enhance CAR T cell therapy. Cell Chem Biol 2024; 31:338-348.e5. [PMID: 37989314 PMCID: PMC10922718 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2023.10.024] [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: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapies are medical breakthroughs in cancer treatment. However, treatment failure is often caused by CAR T cell dysfunction. Additional approaches are needed to overcome inhibitory signals that limit anti-tumor potency. Here, we developed bifunctional fusion "degrader" proteins that bridge one or more target proteins and an E3 ligase complex to enforce target ubiquitination and degradation. Conditional degradation strategies were developed using inducible degrader transgene expression or small molecule-dependent E3 recruitment. We further engineered degraders to block SMAD-dependent TGFβ signaling using a domain from the SARA protein to target both SMAD2 and SMAD3. SMAD degrader CAR T cells were less susceptible to suppression by TGFβ and demonstrated enhanced anti-tumor potency in vivo. These results demonstrate a clinically suitable synthetic biology platform to reprogram E3 ligase target specificity for conditional, multi-specific endogenous protein degradation, with promising applications including enhancing the potency of CAR T cell therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel C Lane
- Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Gabriele Kembuan
- Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jeannie Carreiro
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Michael C Kann
- Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Cellular Immunotherapy Program, Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - William Lin
- Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Amanda A Bouffard
- Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Cellular Immunotherapy Program, Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Johannes Kreuzer
- Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Robert Morris
- Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Joanna Y Kim
- Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Charles Zou
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Diego Salas-Benito
- Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Cellular Immunotherapy Program, Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jessica A Gasser
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Mark B Leick
- Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Cellular Immunotherapy Program, Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Mikołaj Słabicki
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Wilhelm Haas
- Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Marcela V Maus
- Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA; Cellular Immunotherapy Program, Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Max Jan
- Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA.
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11
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Christensen CF, Laurichesse Q, Loudhaief R, Colombani J, Andersen DS. Drosophila activins adapt gut size to food intake and promote regenerative growth. Nat Commun 2024; 15:273. [PMID: 38177201 PMCID: PMC10767106 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-44553-9] [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: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Rapidly renewable tissues adapt different strategies to cope with environmental insults. While tissue repair is associated with increased intestinal stem cell (ISC) proliferation and accelerated tissue turnover rates, reduced calorie intake triggers a homeostasis-breaking process causing adaptive resizing of the gut. Here we show that activins are key drivers of both adaptive and regenerative growth. Activin-β (Actβ) is produced by stem and progenitor cells in response to intestinal infections and stimulates ISC proliferation and turnover rates to promote tissue repair. Dawdle (Daw), a divergent Drosophila activin, signals through its receptor, Baboon, in progenitor cells to promote their maturation into enterocytes (ECs). Daw is dynamically regulated during starvation-refeeding cycles, where it couples nutrient intake with progenitor maturation and adaptive resizing of the gut. Our results highlight an activin-dependent mechanism coupling nutrient intake with progenitor-to-EC maturation to promote adaptive resizing of the gut and further establish activins as key regulators of adult tissue plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian F Christensen
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 15, Build. 3, 3rd floor, 2100 Copenhagen O, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Quentin Laurichesse
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 15, Build. 3, 3rd floor, 2100 Copenhagen O, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rihab Loudhaief
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 15, Build. 3, 3rd floor, 2100 Copenhagen O, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Julien Colombani
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 15, Build. 3, 3rd floor, 2100 Copenhagen O, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Ditte S Andersen
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 15, Build. 3, 3rd floor, 2100 Copenhagen O, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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12
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Feng Y, Cai L, Pook M, Liu F, Chang CH, Mouti MA, Nibhani R, Militi S, Dunford J, Philpott M, Fan Y, Fan GC, Liu Q, Qi J, Wang C, Hong W, Morgan H, Wang M, Sadayappan S, Jegga AG, Oppermann U, Wang Y, Huang W, Jiang L, Pauklin S. BRD9-SMAD2/3 Orchestrates Stemness and Tumorigenesis in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma. Gastroenterology 2024; 166:139-154. [PMID: 37739089 PMCID: PMC11304550 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2023.09.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS The dismal prognosis of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is linked to the presence of pancreatic cancer stem-like cells (CSCs) that respond poorly to current chemotherapy regimens. The epigenetic mechanisms regulating CSCs are currently insufficiently understood, which hampers the development of novel strategies for eliminating CSCs. METHODS By small molecule compound screening targeting 142 epigenetic enzymes, we identified that bromodomain-containing protein BRD9, a component of the BAF histone remodeling complex, is a key chromatin regulator to orchestrate the stemness of pancreatic CSCs via cooperating with the TGFβ/Activin-SMAD2/3 signaling pathway. RESULTS Inhibition and genetic ablation of BRD9 block the self-renewal, cell cycle entry into G0 phase and invasiveness of CSCs, and improve the sensitivity of CSCs to gemcitabine treatment. In addition, pharmacological inhibition of BRD9 significantly reduced the tumorigenesis in patient-derived xenografts mouse models and eliminated CSCs in tumors from pancreatic cancer patients. Mechanistically, inhibition of BRD9 disrupts enhancer-promoter looping and transcription of stemness genes in CSCs. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, the data suggest BRD9 as a novel therapeutic target for PDAC treatment via modulation of CSC stemness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuliang Feng
- Botnar Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Liuyang Cai
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Guangdong, China
| | - Martin Pook
- Botnar Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Feng Liu
- Botnar Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Chao-Hui Chang
- Botnar Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Mai Abdel Mouti
- Botnar Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Reshma Nibhani
- Botnar Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Stefania Militi
- Botnar Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - James Dunford
- Botnar Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Martin Philpott
- Botnar Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Yanbo Fan
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio; Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Health and Disease, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Guo-Chang Fan
- Departments of Pharmacology and Systems Physiology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Qi Liu
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jun Qi
- Department of Cancer Biology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Cheng Wang
- Smurfit Institute of Genetics, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Wanzi Hong
- Department of Cardiology, Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, China
| | - Hannah Morgan
- Heart, Lung and Vascular Institute, Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Health and Disease, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Mingyang Wang
- College of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Sakthivel Sadayappan
- Heart, Lung and Vascular Institute, Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Health and Disease, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Anil G Jegga
- Division of Biomedical Informatics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio; Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio; Department of Computer Science, University of Cincinnati College of Engineering, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Udo Oppermann
- Botnar Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom; Oxford Translational Myeloma Centre, Botnar Research Centre, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Yigang Wang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio.
| | - Wei Huang
- Heart, Lung and Vascular Institute, Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Health and Disease, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio.
| | - Lei Jiang
- Department of Cardiology, Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, China.
| | - Siim Pauklin
- Botnar Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.
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13
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Sharma R, Malviya R. Cancer Stem Cells in Carcinogenesis and Potential Role in Pancreatic Cancer. Curr Stem Cell Res Ther 2024; 19:1185-1194. [PMID: 37711007 DOI: 10.2174/1574888x19666230914103420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
A poor prognosis is associated with pancreatic cancer because of resistance during treatment and early distant metastases. The discovery of cancer stem cells has opened up novel avenues for research into the biology and treatment of cancer. Many investigations have pointed out the role of these types of stem cells in the oncogenesis and progression of hematologic and solid malignancies, specifically. Due to the existence of cancer stem cells in the proliferation and preservation of pancreatic tumors, such malignancies could be difficult to eradicate using conventional treatment techniques like chemotherapy and radiotherapy. It is hypothesized that pancreatic malignancies originate from a limited population of aberrant cancer stem cells to promote carcinogenesis, tumour metastasis, and therapeutic resistance. This review examines the role of pancreatic cancer stem cells in this disease and their significance in carcinogenesis, as well as the signals which modulate them, and also examines the ongoing clinical studies that are now being conducted with pancreatic stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rishav Sharma
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medical and Allied Sciences, Galgotias University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Rishabha Malviya
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medical and Allied Sciences, Galgotias University, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India
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14
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Guo Z, Han S. Targeting cancer stem cell plasticity in triple-negative breast cancer. EXPLORATION OF TARGETED ANTI-TUMOR THERAPY 2023; 4:1165-1181. [PMID: 38213533 PMCID: PMC10776602 DOI: 10.37349/etat.2023.00190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a highly aggressive breast cancer subtype with limited treatment options. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are thought to play a crucial role in TNBC progression and resistance to therapy. CSCs are a small subpopulation of cells within tumors that possess self-renewal and differentiation capabilities and are responsible for tumor initiation, maintenance, and metastasis. CSCs exhibit plasticity, allowing them to switch between states and adapt to changing microenvironments. Targeting CSC plasticity has emerged as a promising strategy for TNBC treatment. This review summarizes recent advances in understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying CSC plasticity in TNBC and discusses potential therapeutic approaches targeting CSC plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengwang Guo
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Integration of Chinese and Western Medicine, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Shuyan Han
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Integration of Chinese and Western Medicine, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing 100142, China
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15
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Zheng Q, Tang J, Aicher A, Bou Kheir T, Sabanovic B, Ananthanarayanan P, Reina C, Chen M, Gu JM, He B, Alcala S, Behrens D, Lawlo RT, Scarpa A, Hidalgo M, Sainz B, Sancho P, Heeschen C. Inhibiting NR5A2 targets stemness in pancreatic cancer by disrupting SOX2/MYC signaling and restoring chemosensitivity. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2023; 42:323. [PMID: 38012687 PMCID: PMC10683265 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-023-02883-y] [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: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a profoundly aggressive and fatal cancer. One of the key factors defining its aggressiveness and resilience against chemotherapy is the existence of cancer stem cells (CSCs). The important task of discovering upstream regulators of stemness that are amenable for targeting in PDAC is essential for the advancement of more potent therapeutic approaches. In this study, we sought to elucidate the function of the nuclear receptor subfamily 5, group A, member 2 (NR5A2) in the context of pancreatic CSCs. METHODS We modeled human PDAC using primary PDAC cells and CSC-enriched sphere cultures. NR5A2 was genetically silenced or inhibited with Cpd3. Assays included RNA-seq, sphere/colony formation, cell viability/toxicity, real-time PCR, western blot, immunofluorescence, ChIP, CUT&Tag, XF Analysis, lactate production, and in vivo tumorigenicity assays. PDAC models from 18 patients were treated with Cpd3-loaded nanocarriers. RESULTS Our findings demonstrate that NR5A2 plays a dual role in PDAC. In differentiated cancer cells, NR5A2 promotes cell proliferation by inhibiting CDKN1A. On the other hand, in the CSC population, NR5A2 enhances stemness by upregulating SOX2 through direct binding to its promotor/enhancer region. Additionally, NR5A2 suppresses MYC, leading to the activation of the mitochondrial biogenesis factor PPARGC1A and a shift in metabolism towards oxidative phosphorylation, which is a crucial feature of stemness in PDAC. Importantly, our study shows that the specific NR5A2 inhibitor, Cpd3, sensitizes a significant fraction of PDAC models derived from 18 patients to standard chemotherapy. This treatment approach results in durable remissions and long-term survival. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the expression levels of NR5A2/SOX2 can predict the response to treatment. CONCLUSIONS The findings of our study highlight the cell context-dependent effects of NR5A2 in PDAC. We have identified a novel pharmacological strategy to modulate SOX2 and MYC levels, which disrupts stemness and prevents relapse in this deadly disease. These insights provide valuable information for the development of targeted therapies for PDAC, offering new hope for improved patient outcomes. A Schematic illustration of the role of NR5A2 in cancer stem cells versus differentiated cancer cells, along with the action of the NR5A2 inhibitor Cpd3. B Overall survival of tumor-bearing mice following allocated treatment. A total of 18 PDX models were treated using a 2 x 1 x 1 approach (two animals per model per treatment); n=36 per group (illustration created with biorender.com ).
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Affiliation(s)
- Quan Zheng
- Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiajia Tang
- Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Alexandra Aicher
- Precision Immunotherapy, Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Immunology Research and Development Center, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Tony Bou Kheir
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Berina Sabanovic
- Pancreatic Cancer Heterogeneity Lab, Candiolo Cancer Institute - FPO - IRCCS, Candiolo, Turin, Italy
| | - Preeta Ananthanarayanan
- Pancreatic Cancer Heterogeneity Lab, Candiolo Cancer Institute - FPO - IRCCS, Candiolo, Turin, Italy
| | - Chiara Reina
- Pancreatic Cancer Heterogeneity Lab, Candiolo Cancer Institute - FPO - IRCCS, Candiolo, Turin, Italy
| | - Minchun Chen
- Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian-Min Gu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bin He
- National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Sonia Alcala
- Molecular Pathology Programme, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO), Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas "Alberto Sols" CSIC-UAM, Chronic Diseases and Cancer Area 3 Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red, Área Cáncer, CIBERONC, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
| | - Diana Behrens
- Experimental Pharmacology and Oncology Berlin-Buch GmbH, Berlin, Germany
| | - Rita T Lawlo
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
- ARC-Net, Applied Research On Cancer Centre, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Aldo Scarpa
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Pathology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
- ARC-Net, Applied Research On Cancer Centre, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Manuel Hidalgo
- Clinical Research Programme, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO), Madrid, Spain
| | - Bruno Sainz
- Molecular Pathology Programme, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO), Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas "Alberto Sols" CSIC-UAM, Chronic Diseases and Cancer Area 3 Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red, Área Cáncer, CIBERONC, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain
| | - Patricia Sancho
- IIS Aragon, Hospital Universitario Miguel Servet, 50009, Saragossa, Spain.
| | - Christopher Heeschen
- Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
- Pancreatic Cancer Heterogeneity Lab, Candiolo Cancer Institute - FPO - IRCCS, Candiolo, Turin, Italy.
- Molecular Pathology Programme, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO), Madrid, Spain.
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16
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Huang BW, Wang PY, Hu LH. Transcriptional regulation of pancreatic stellate cell activation in chronic pancreatitis. Shijie Huaren Xiaohua Zazhi 2023; 31:877-881. [DOI: 10.11569/wcjd.v31.i21.877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic fibrosis is an important feature in the occurrence and development of chronic pancreatitis (CP), and activated pancreatic stellate cells (PSC) play an important role in the progression of pancreatic fibrosis. In recent years, more and more signaling pathways related to pancreatic fibrosis have been found. These signaling pathways regulate the activation of pancreatic stellate cells through transcription factors, thereby affecting pancreatic fibrosis and the progression of CP. This article reviews the progress in the research of the signaling pathways and related transcription factors involved in PSC activation in pancreatic fibrosis, hoping to provide ideas for further understanding the mechanism and therapeutic targets of pancreatic fibrosis in CP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bang-Wei Huang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Peng-Yuan Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, The 981st Hospital, Chengde 067000, Hebei Province, China
| | - Liang-Hao Hu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
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17
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Xu X, Ding Y, Jin J, Xu C, Hu W, Wu S, Ding G, Cheng R, Cao L, Jia S. Post-translational modification of CDK1-STAT3 signaling by fisetin suppresses pancreatic cancer stem cell properties. Cell Biosci 2023; 13:176. [PMID: 37743465 PMCID: PMC10518106 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-023-01118-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pancreatic cancer stem cells (CSCs) promote pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) tumorigenesis and chemoresistance. Cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (CDK1) plays an important role in tumor initiation in other tumors, but the function of CDK1 in PDAC remains unclear. Fisetin is a bioactive flavonoid with anti-tumor properties in multiple tumors, while its function in CSCs remains elusive. RESULTS In this study, we demonstrated that CDK1 was correlated with prognosis and was highly expressed in pancreatic cancer tissue and gemcitabine-resistant cells. Silencing CDK1 impaired tumor stemness and reduced a subset of CSCs. We found that fisetin blocked the kinase pocket domain of CDK1 and inhibited pancreatic CSC characteristics. Using acetylation proteomics analysis and phosphorylation array assay, we confirmed that fisetin reduced CDK1 expression and increased CDK1 acetylation at lysine 33 (K33), which resulted in the suppression of CDK1 phosphorylation. Silencing CDK1 or STAT3 suppressed tumor stemness properties, while overexpressing CDK1 or STAT3 showed the opposite effect. Mutation or acetylation of CDK1 at K33 weakened STAT3 phosphorylation at Y705, impairing the expression of stem-related genes and pancreatic cancer stemness. In addition, lack of histone deacetylase 3 (HDAC3), which deacetylates CDK1, contributed to weakening STAT3 phosphorylation by regulating the post-translational modification of CDK1, thereby decreasing the stemness of PDAC. Moreover, our results revealed that fisetin enhanced the effect of gemcitabine through eliminating a subpopulation of pancreatic CSCs by inhibiting the CDK1-STAT3 axis in vitro and in vivo. CONCLUSION Our findings highlight the role of post-translational modifications of CDK1-STAT3 signaling in maintaining cancer stemness of PDAC, and indicated that targeting the CDK1-STAT3 axis with inhibitors such as fisetin is a potential therapeutic strategy to diminish drug resistance and eliminate PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodong Xu
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310000, China
- General Surgery, Cancer Center, Department of Colorectal Surgery, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital (Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College), Hangzhou, 310014, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yimin Ding
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310000, China
| | - Junbin Jin
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310000, China
| | - Chengjie Xu
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310000, China
| | - Wenyi Hu
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310000, China
| | - Songtao Wu
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310000, China
| | - Guoping Ding
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310000, China
| | - Rui Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Avenue, Wuxi, 214122, China
| | - Liping Cao
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310000, China.
- Innovation Center for Minimally Invasive Technique and Device, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310000, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Shengnan Jia
- Department of General Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310000, China.
- Innovation Center for Minimally Invasive Technique and Device, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310000, Zhejiang, China.
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18
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Sivaccumar JP, Iaccarino E, Oliver A, Cantile M, Olimpieri P, Leonardi A, Ruvo M, Sandomenico A. Production in Bacteria and Characterization of Engineered Humanized Fab Fragment against the Nodal Protein. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1130. [PMID: 37631045 PMCID: PMC10459755 DOI: 10.3390/ph16081130] [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: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug development in recent years is increasingly focused on developing personalized treatments based on blocking molecules selective for therapeutic targets specifically present in individual patients. In this perspective, the specificity of therapeutic targets and blocking agents plays a crucial role. Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and their surrogates are increasingly used in this context thanks to their ability to bind therapeutic targets and to inhibit their activity or to transport bioactive molecules into the compartments in which the targets are expressed. Small antibody-like molecules, such as Fabs, are often used in certain clinical settings where small size and better tissue penetration are required. In the wake of this research trend, we developed a murine mAb (3D1) neutralizing the activity of Nodal, an oncofetal protein that is attracting an ever-increasing interest as a selective therapeutic target for several cancer types. Here, we report the preparation of a recombinant Fab of 3D1 that has been humanized through a computational approach starting from the sequence of the murine antibody. The Fab has been expressed in bacterial cells (1 mg/L bacterial culture), biochemically characterized in terms of stability and binding properties by circular dichroism and bio-layer interferometry techniques and tested in vitro on Nodal-positive cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jwala P. Sivaccumar
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging, CNR, Via P. Castellino, 111, 80131 Naples, Italy (E.I.)
| | - Emanuela Iaccarino
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging, CNR, Via P. Castellino, 111, 80131 Naples, Italy (E.I.)
| | - Angela Oliver
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging, CNR, Via P. Castellino, 111, 80131 Naples, Italy (E.I.)
- Università degli Studi della Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Via Vivaldi 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | | | | | - Antonio Leonardi
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples “Federico II”, via Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Menotti Ruvo
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging, CNR, Via P. Castellino, 111, 80131 Naples, Italy (E.I.)
| | - Annamaria Sandomenico
- Institute of Biostructures and Bioimaging, CNR, Via P. Castellino, 111, 80131 Naples, Italy (E.I.)
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19
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Lu S, Kim HS, Cao Y, Bedi K, Zhao L, Narayanan IV, Magnuson B, Gu Y, Yang J, Yi Z, Babaniamansour S, Shameon S, Xu C, Paulsen MT, Qiu P, Jeyarajan S, Ljungman M, Thomas D, Dou Y, Crawford H, di Magliano MP, Ge K, Yang B, Shi J. KMT2D links TGF-β signaling to noncanonical activin pathway and regulates pancreatic cancer cell plasticity. Int J Cancer 2023; 153:552-570. [PMID: 37140208 PMCID: PMC10330100 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.34528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Although KMT2D, also known as MLL2, is known to play an essential role in development, differentiation, and tumor suppression, its role in pancreatic cancer development is not well understood. Here, we discovered a novel signaling axis mediated by KMT2D, which links TGF-β to the activin A pathway. We found that TGF-β upregulates a microRNA, miR-147b, which in turn leads to post-transcriptional silencing of KMT2D. Loss of KMT2D induces the expression and secretion of activin A, which activates a noncanonical p38 MAPK-mediated pathway to modulate cancer cell plasticity, promote a mesenchymal phenotype, and enhance tumor invasion and metastasis in mice. We observed a decreased KMT2D expression in human primary and metastatic pancreatic cancer. Furthermore, inhibition or knockdown of activin A reversed the protumoral role of KMT2D loss. These findings support a tumor-suppressive role of KMT2D in pancreatic cancer and identify miR-147b and activin A as novel therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Lu
- Department of Pathology, Rogel Cancer Center and Center for RNA Biomedicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, PR China
| | - Hong Sun Kim
- Department of Pathology, Rogel Cancer Center and Center for RNA Biomedicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Yubo Cao
- Department of Pathology, Rogel Cancer Center and Center for RNA Biomedicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Karan Bedi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rogel Cancer Center and Center for RNA Biomedicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Lili Zhao
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Ishwarya Venkata Narayanan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rogel Cancer Center and Center for RNA Biomedicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Brian Magnuson
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Yumei Gu
- Department of Pathology, Rogel Cancer Center and Center for RNA Biomedicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Jing Yang
- Department of Pathology, Rogel Cancer Center and Center for RNA Biomedicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Zhujun Yi
- Department of Pathology, Rogel Cancer Center and Center for RNA Biomedicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Sepideh Babaniamansour
- Department of Pathology, Rogel Cancer Center and Center for RNA Biomedicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Sargis Shameon
- Department of Pathology, Rogel Cancer Center and Center for RNA Biomedicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Chang Xu
- Department of Pathology, Rogel Cancer Center and Center for RNA Biomedicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Michelle T. Paulsen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rogel Cancer Center and Center for RNA Biomedicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Ping Qiu
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Sivakumar Jeyarajan
- Department of Pathology, Rogel Cancer Center and Center for RNA Biomedicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Mats Ljungman
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rogel Cancer Center and Center for RNA Biomedicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Dafydd Thomas
- Department of Pathology, Rogel Cancer Center and Center for RNA Biomedicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Yali Dou
- Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
| | | | | | - Kai Ge
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institute of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Bo Yang
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Jiaqi Shi
- Department of Pathology, Rogel Cancer Center and Center for RNA Biomedicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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20
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Safaei S, Sajed R, Shariftabrizi A, Dorafshan S, Saeednejad Zanjani L, Dehghan Manshadi M, Madjd Z, Ghods R. Tumor matrix stiffness provides fertile soil for cancer stem cells. Cancer Cell Int 2023; 23:143. [PMID: 37468874 PMCID: PMC10357884 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-023-02992-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Matrix stiffness is a mechanical characteristic of the extracellular matrix (ECM) that increases from the tumor core to the tumor periphery in a gradient pattern in a variety of solid tumors and can promote proliferation, invasion, metastasis, drug resistance, and recurrence. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a rare subpopulation of tumor cells with self-renewal, asymmetric cell division, and differentiation capabilities. CSCs are thought to be responsible for metastasis, tumor recurrence, chemotherapy resistance, and consequently poor clinical outcomes. Evidence suggests that matrix stiffness can activate receptors and mechanosensor/mechanoregulator proteins such as integrin, FAK, and YAP, modulating the characteristics of tumor cells as well as CSCs through different molecular signaling pathways. A deeper understanding of the effect of matrix stiffness on CSCs characteristics could lead to development of innovative cancer therapies. In this review, we discuss how the stiffness of the ECM is sensed by the cells and how the cells respond to this environmental change as well as the effect of matrix stiffness on CSCs characteristics and also the key malignant processes such as proliferation and EMT. Then, we specifically focus on how increased matrix stiffness affects CSCs in breast, lung, liver, pancreatic, and colorectal cancers. We also discuss how the molecules responsible for increased matrix stiffness and the signaling pathways activated by the enhanced stiffness can be manipulated as a therapeutic strategy for cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadegh Safaei
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Hemmat Street (Highway), Next to Milad Tower, Tehran, 14496-14530, Iran
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Hemmat Street (Highway), Next to Milad Tower, Tehran, 14496-14530, Iran
| | - Roya Sajed
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Hemmat Street (Highway), Next to Milad Tower, Tehran, 14496-14530, Iran
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Hemmat Street (Highway), Next to Milad Tower, Tehran, 14496-14530, Iran
| | - Ahmad Shariftabrizi
- Division of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Radiology, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, USA
- Division of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Radiology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Shima Dorafshan
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Hemmat Street (Highway), Next to Milad Tower, Tehran, 14496-14530, Iran
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Hemmat Street (Highway), Next to Milad Tower, Tehran, 14496-14530, Iran
| | - Leili Saeednejad Zanjani
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Hemmat Street (Highway), Next to Milad Tower, Tehran, 14496-14530, Iran
- Department of Pathology and Genomic Medicine, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Masoumeh Dehghan Manshadi
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Hemmat Street (Highway), Next to Milad Tower, Tehran, 14496-14530, Iran
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Hemmat Street (Highway), Next to Milad Tower, Tehran, 14496-14530, Iran
| | - Zahra Madjd
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Hemmat Street (Highway), Next to Milad Tower, Tehran, 14496-14530, Iran.
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Hemmat Street (Highway), Next to Milad Tower, Tehran, 14496-14530, Iran.
| | - Roya Ghods
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Hemmat Street (Highway), Next to Milad Tower, Tehran, 14496-14530, Iran.
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Hemmat Street (Highway), Next to Milad Tower, Tehran, 14496-14530, Iran.
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21
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Borlongan MC, Wang H. Profiling and targeting cancer stem cell signaling pathways for cancer therapeutics. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1125174. [PMID: 37305676 PMCID: PMC10247984 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1125174] [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: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumorigenic cancer stem cells (CSCs) represent a subpopulation of cells within the tumor that express genetic and phenotypic profiles and signaling pathways distinct from the other tumor cells. CSCs have eluded many conventional anti-oncogenic treatments, resulting in metastases and relapses of cancers. Effectively targeting CSCs' unique self-renewal and differentiation properties would be a breakthrough in cancer therapy. A better characterization of the CSCs' unique signaling mechanisms will improve our understanding of the pathology and treatment of cancer. In this paper, we will discuss CSC origin, followed by an in-depth review of CSC-associated signaling pathways. Particular emphasis is given on CSC signaling pathways' ligand-receptor engagement, upstream and downstream mechanisms, and associated genes, and molecules. Signaling pathways associated with regulation of CSC development stand as potential targets of CSC therapy, which include Wnt, TGFβ (transforming growth factor-β)/SMAD, Notch, JAK-STAT (Janus kinase-signal transducers and activators of transcription), Hedgehog (Hh), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Lastly, we will also discuss milestone discoveries in CSC-based therapies, including pre-clinical and clinical studies featuring novel CSC signaling pathway cancer therapeutics. This review aims at generating innovative views on CSCs toward a better understanding of cancer pathology and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mia C. Borlongan
- Master Program of Pharmaceutical Science College of Graduate Studies, Elk Grove, CA, United States
| | - Hongbin Wang
- Master Program of Pharmaceutical Science College of Graduate Studies, Elk Grove, CA, United States
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences College of Pharmacy, Elk Grove, CA, United States
- Department of Basic Science College of Medicine, California Northstate University, Elk Grove, CA, United States
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22
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Zhao Y, Qin C, Zhao B, Wang Y, Li Z, Li T, Yang X, Wang W. Pancreatic cancer stemness: dynamic status in malignant progression. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2023; 42:122. [PMID: 37173787 PMCID: PMC10182699 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-023-02693-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) is one of the most aggressive malignancies worldwide. Increasing evidence suggests that the capacity for self-renewal, proliferation, and differentiation of pancreatic cancer stem cells (PCSCs) contribute to major challenges with current PC therapies, causing metastasis and therapeutic resistance, leading to recurrence and death in patients. The concept that PCSCs are characterized by their high plasticity and self-renewal capacities is central to this review. We focused specifically on the regulation of PCSCs, such as stemness-related signaling pathways, stimuli in tumor cells and the tumor microenvironment (TME), as well as the development of innovative stemness-targeted therapies. Understanding the biological behavior of PCSCs with plasticity and the molecular mechanisms regulating PC stemness will help to identify new treatment strategies to treat this horrible disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutong Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure On Translational Medicine in, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
| | - Cheng Qin
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure On Translational Medicine in, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
| | - Bangbo Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure On Translational Medicine in, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuanyang Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure On Translational Medicine in, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
| | - Zeru Li
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure On Translational Medicine in, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
| | - Tianyu Li
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure On Translational Medicine in, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoying Yang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure On Translational Medicine in, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China
| | - Weibin Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China.
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China.
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure On Translational Medicine in, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, People's Republic of China.
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23
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Luo Q, Liu P, Yu P, Qin T. Cancer Stem Cells are Actually Stem Cells with Disordered Differentiation: the Monophyletic Origin of Cancer. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2023; 19:827-838. [PMID: 36648606 PMCID: PMC10185654 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-023-10508-2] [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: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) play an important role in cancer development. Based on advancements in CSC research, we propose a monophyletic model of cancer. This model is based on the idea that CSCs are stem cells with disordered differentiation whose original purpose was to repair damaged tissues. Inflammatory responses and damage repair signals are crucial for the creation and maintenance of CSCs. Normal quiescent stem cells are activated by environmental stimulation, such as an inflammatory response, and undergo cell division and differentiation. In the initial stage of cancer development, stem cell differentiation leads to heteromorphism due to the accumulation of gene mutations, resulting in the development of metaplasia or precancerosis. In the second stage, accumulated mutations induce poor differentiation and lead to cancer development. The monophyletic model illustrates the evolution, biological behavior, and hallmarks of CSCs, proposes a concise understanding of the origin of cancer, and may encourage a novel therapeutic approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiankun Luo
- Department of Hepatobilliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Zhengzhou University People's Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Henan University People's Hospital, Jinshui District, No. 7, Weiwu Rd., Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China
| | - Pan Liu
- Department of Hepatobilliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Zhengzhou University People's Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Henan University People's Hospital, Jinshui District, No. 7, Weiwu Rd., Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China
| | - Pengfei Yu
- Department of Hepatobilliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Zhengzhou University People's Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Henan University People's Hospital, Jinshui District, No. 7, Weiwu Rd., Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China
| | - Tao Qin
- Department of Hepatobilliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Zhengzhou University People's Hospital, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Henan University People's Hospital, Jinshui District, No. 7, Weiwu Rd., Zhengzhou, 450003, Henan, China.
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24
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Bubin R, Uljanovs R, Strumfa I. Cancer Stem Cells in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24087030. [PMID: 37108193 PMCID: PMC10138709 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The first discovery of cancer stem cells (CSCs) in leukaemia triggered active research on stemness in neoplastic tissues. CSCs represent a subpopulation of malignant cells, defined by unique properties: a dedifferentiated state, self-renewal, pluripotency, an inherent resistance to chemo- and radiotherapy, the presence of certain epigenetic alterations, as well as a higher tumorigenicity in comparison with the general population of cancer cells. A combination of these features highlights CSCs as a high-priority target during cancer treatment. The presence of CSCs has been confirmed in multiple malignancies, including pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, an entity that is well known for its dismal prognosis. As the aggressive course of pancreatic carcinoma is partly attributable to treatment resistance, CSCs could contribute to adverse outcomes. The aim of this review is to summarize the current information regarding the markers and molecular features of CSCs in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma and the therapeutic options to remove them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roman Bubin
- Faculty of Medicine, Riga Stradins University, 16 Dzirciema Street, LV-1007 Riga, Latvia
| | - Romans Uljanovs
- Department of Pathology, Riga Stradins University, 16 Dzirciema Street, LV-1007 Riga, Latvia
| | - Ilze Strumfa
- Department of Pathology, Riga Stradins University, 16 Dzirciema Street, LV-1007 Riga, Latvia
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25
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Wu T, Wan J, Qu X, Xia K, Wang F, Zhang Z, Yang M, Wu X, Gao R, Yuan X, Fang L, Chen C, Yin L. Nodal promotes colorectal cancer survival and metastasis through regulating SCD1-mediated ferroptosis resistance. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:229. [PMID: 37002201 PMCID: PMC10066180 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-05756-6] [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: 09/17/2022] [Revised: 03/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
Re-expression of an embryonic morphogen, Nodal, has been seen in several types of malignant tumours. By far, studies about Nodal's role in colorectal cancer (CRC) remain limited. Ferroptosis is essential for CRC progression, which is caused by cellular redox imbalance and characterized by lipid peroxidation. Herein, we observed that Nodal enhanced CRC cell's proliferative rate, motility, invasiveness, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in vivo and in vitro. Notably, Nodal overexpression induced monounsaturated fatty acids synthesis and increased the lipid unsaturation level. Nodal knockdown resulted in increased CRC cell lipid peroxidation. Stearoyl-coenzyme A desaturase 1 (SCD1) inhibition at least partially abolished the resistance of Nodal-overexpressing cells to RSL3-induced ferroptosis. Mechanistically, SCD1 was transcriptionally up-regulated by Smad2/3 pathway activation in response to Nodal overexpression. Significant Nodal and SCD1 up-regulation were observed in CRC tissues and were associated with CRC metastasis and poor clinical outcomes. Furthermore, bovine serum albumin nanoparticles/si-Nodal nanocomplexes targeting Nodal had anti-tumour effects on CRC progression and metastasis. This research elucidated the role of Nodal in CRC development and revealed a potential gene-based therapeutic strategy targeting Nodal for improving CRC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianqi Wu
- Center for Difficult and Complicated Abdominal Surgery, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Jian Wan
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, 226000, China
| | - Xiao Qu
- Center for Difficult and Complicated Abdominal Surgery, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Kai Xia
- Center for Difficult and Complicated Abdominal Surgery, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Fangtao Wang
- Center for Difficult and Complicated Abdominal Surgery, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Zichao Zhang
- Center for Difficult and Complicated Abdominal Surgery, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Muqing Yang
- Center for Difficult and Complicated Abdominal Surgery, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Xiaocai Wu
- Center for Difficult and Complicated Abdominal Surgery, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Renyuan Gao
- Center for Difficult and Complicated Abdominal Surgery, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Xiaoqi Yuan
- Center for Difficult and Complicated Abdominal Surgery, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Lin Fang
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China.
| | - Chunqiu Chen
- Center for Difficult and Complicated Abdominal Surgery, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China.
| | - Lu Yin
- Center for Difficult and Complicated Abdominal Surgery, Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China.
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26
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Agrawal R, Natarajan KN. Oncogenic signaling pathways in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Adv Cancer Res 2023; 159:251-283. [PMID: 37268398 DOI: 10.1016/bs.acr.2023.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the most common (∼90% cases) pancreatic neoplasm and one of the most lethal cancer among all malignances. PDAC harbor aberrant oncogenic signaling that may result from the multiple genetic and epigenetic alterations such as the mutation in driver genes (KRAS, CDKN2A, p53), genomic amplification of regulatory genes (MYC, IGF2BP2, ROIK3), deregulation of chromatin-modifying proteins (HDAC, WDR5) among others. A key event is the formation of Pancreatic Intraepithelial Neoplasia (PanIN) that often results from the activating mutation in KRAS. Mutated KRAS can direct a variety of signaling pathways and modulate downstream targets including MYC, which play an important role in cancer progression. In this review, we discuss recent literature shedding light on the origins of PDAC from the perspective of major oncogenic signaling pathways. We highlight how MYC directly and indirectly, with cooperation with KRAS, affect epigenetic reprogramming and metastasis. Additionally, we summarize the recent findings from single cell genomic approaches that highlight heterogeneity in PDAC and tumor microenvironment, and provide molecular avenues for PDAC treatment in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahul Agrawal
- DTU Bioengineering, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
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27
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Petrikaite V, D'Avanzo N, Celia C, Fresta M. Nanocarriers overcoming biological barriers induced by multidrug resistance of chemotherapeutics in 2D and 3D cancer models. Drug Resist Updat 2023; 68:100956. [PMID: 36958083 DOI: 10.1016/j.drup.2023.100956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
Multidrug resistance (MDR) is currently a big challenge in cancer therapy and limits its success in several patients. Tumors use the MDR mechanisms to colonize the host and reduce the efficacy of chemotherapeutics that are injected as single agents or combinations. MDR mechanisms are responsible for inactivation of drugs and formbiological barriers in cancer like the drug efflux pumps, aberrant extracellular matrix, hypoxic areas, altered cell death mechanisms, etc. Nanocarriers have some potential to overcome these barriers and improve the efficacy of chemotherapeutics. In fact, they are versatile and can deliver natural and synthetic biomolecules, as well as RNAi/DNAi, thus providing a controlled release of drugs and a synergistic effect in tumor tissues. Biocompatible and safe multifunctional biopolymers, with or without specific targeting molecules, modify the surface and interface properties of nanocarriers. These modifications affect the interaction of nanocarriers with cellular models as well as the selection of suitable models for in vitro experiments. MDR cancer cells, and particularly their 2D and 3D models, in combination with anatomical and physiological structures of tumor tissues, can boost the design and preparation of nanomedicines for anticancer therapy. 2D and 3D cancer cell cultures are suitable models to study the interaction, internalization, and efficacy of nanocarriers, the mechanisms of MDR in cancer cells and tissues, and they are used to tailor a personalized medicine and improve the efficacy of anticancer treatment in patients. The description of molecular mechanisms and physio-pathological pathways of these models further allow the design of nanomedicine that can efficiently overcome biological barriers involved in MDR and test the activity of nanocarriers in 2D and 3D models of MDR cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vilma Petrikaite
- Laboratory of Drug Targets Histopathology, Institute of Cardiology, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Sukilėlių pr. 13, LT-50162 Kaunas, Lithuania; Institute of Biotechnology, Life Sciences Center, Vilnius University, Saulėtekio al. 7, LT-10257 Vilnius, Lithuania.
| | - Nicola D'Avanzo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Chieti - Pescara "G. d'Annunzio", Via dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy; Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University "Magna Græcia" of Catanzaro Campus Universitario-Germaneto, Viale Europa, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Christian Celia
- Laboratory of Drug Targets Histopathology, Institute of Cardiology, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Sukilėlių pr. 13, LT-50162 Kaunas, Lithuania; Department of Pharmacy, University of Chieti - Pescara "G. d'Annunzio", Via dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Massimo Fresta
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro "Magna Graecia", Viale "S. Venuta" s.n.c., 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
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28
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Feng Y, Cai L, Pook M, Liu F, Chang CH, Mouti MA, Nibhani R, Wu S, Deng S, Militi S, Dunford J, Philpott M, Fan Y, Fan GC, Liu Q, Qi J, Sadayappan S, Jegga AG, Oppermann U, Wang Y, Huang W, Jiang L, Pauklin S. BRD9-SMAD2/3 orchestrates stemness and tumorigenesis in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.03.02.530770. [PMID: 36909530 PMCID: PMC10002796 DOI: 10.1101/2023.03.02.530770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The dismal prognosis of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is linked to the presence of pancreatic cancer stem-like cells (CSCs) that respond poorly to current chemotherapy regimens. By small molecule compound screening targeting 142 epigenetic enzymes, we identified that bromodomain-containing protein BRD9, a component of the BAF histone remodelling complex, is a key chromatin regulator to orchestrate the stemness of pancreatic CSCs via cooperating with the TGFβ/Activin-SMAD2/3 signalling pathway. Inhibition and genetic ablation of BDR9 block the self-renewal, cell cycle entry into G0 phase and invasiveness of CSCs, and improve the sensitivity of CSCs to gemcitabine treatment. In addition, pharmacological inhibition of BRD9 significantly reduced the tumorigenesis in patient-derived xenografts mouse models and eliminated CSCs in tumours from pancreatic cancer patients. Mechanistically, inhibition of BRD9 disrupts enhancer-promoter looping and transcription of stemness genes in CSCs. Collectively, the data suggest BRD9 as a novel therapeutic target for PDAC treatment via modulation of CSC stemness.
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Histone Modifications Represent a Key Epigenetic Feature of Epithelial-to-Mesenchyme Transition in Pancreatic Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24054820. [PMID: 36902253 PMCID: PMC10003015 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24054820] [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: 12/27/2022] [Revised: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is one of the most lethal malignant diseases due to its high invasiveness, early metastatic properties, rapid disease progression, and typically late diagnosis. Notably, the capacity for pancreatic cancer cells to undergo epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is key to their tumorigenic and metastatic potential, and is a feature that can explain the therapeutic resistance of such cancers to treatment. Epigenetic modifications are a central molecular feature of EMT, for which histone modifications are most prevalent. The modification of histones is a dynamic process typically carried out by pairs of reverse catalytic enzymes, and the functions of these enzymes are increasingly relevant to our improved understanding of cancer. In this review, we discuss the mechanisms through which histone-modifying enzymes regulate EMT in pancreatic cancer.
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30
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An J, Hu X, Liu F. Current understanding of cancer stem cells: Immune evasion and targeted immunotherapy in gastrointestinal malignancies. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1114621. [PMID: 36910604 PMCID: PMC9996315 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1114621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
As a relatively rare population of cancer cells existing in the tumor microenvironment, cancer stem cells (CSCs) possess properties of immune privilege to evade the attack of immune system, regulated by the microenvironment of CSCs, the so-called CSCs niche. The bidirectional interaction of CSCs with tumor microenvironment (TME) components favors an immunosuppressive shelter for CSCs' survival and maintenance. Gastrointestinal cancer stem cells (GCSCs) are broadly regarded to be intimately involved in tumor initiation, progression, metastasis and recurrence, with elevated tumor resistance to conventional therapies, which pose a major hindrance to the clinical efficacy for treated patients with gastrointestinal malignancies. Thus, a multitude of efforts have been made to combat and eradicate GCSCs within the tumor mass. Among diverse methods of targeting CSCs in gastrointestinal malignancies, immunotherapy represents a promising strategy. And the better understanding of GCSCs immunomodulation and immunoresistance mechanisms is beneficial to guide and design novel GCSCs-specific immunotherapies with enhanced immune response and clinical efficacy. In this review, we have gathered available and updated information to present an overview of the immunoevasion features harbored by cancer stem cells, and we focus on the description of immune escape strategies utilized by CSCs and microenvironmental regulations underlying CSCs immuno-suppression in the context of gastrointestinal malignancies. Importantly, this review offers deep insights into recent advances of CSC-targeting immunotherapeutic approaches in gastrointestinal cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junyi An
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaohua Hu
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Feng Liu
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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31
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Understanding the role of Cripto-1 in cancer progression and therapeutic strategies. Clin Transl Oncol 2022; 25:1135-1144. [PMID: 36456761 DOI: 10.1007/s12094-022-03023-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
During the initial stages of gastrulation during embryonic differentiation and wound healing, Cripto-1 is a critical protein for human growth. The epithelial adhesion molecules' downregulation, the mesenchymal overexpression, and mobile proteins are important mechanisms by which Cripto-1 initiates epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT). As a result, the function of Cripto-1 for inducing EMT to increase cell migration is advantageous during embryogenesis; however, it is deleterious during the formation, growth, and malignant tumor metastasis. The majority of malignancies are reported to have elevated levels of Cripto-1. Cripto-1 can modify cancerous cells through its function in EMT, which enables these cells to migrate via the extracellular matrix, bloodstream, and lymphatic vessels, on their way for metastasizing to other organs. The goal of this review is to explain what role Cripto-1 plays in common cancers and to summarize how therapeutic strategies are used to interfere with this molecule to target cancers.
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32
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Cave DD, Buonaiuto S, Sainz B, Fantuz M, Mangini M, Carrer A, Di Domenico A, Iavazzo TT, Andolfi G, Cortina C, Sevillano M, Heeschen C, Colonna V, Corona M, Cucciardi A, Di Guida M, Batlle E, De Luca A, Lonardo E. LAMC2 marks a tumor-initiating cell population with an aggressive signature in pancreatic cancer. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL CANCER RESEARCH : CR 2022; 41:315. [PMID: 36289544 PMCID: PMC9609288 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-022-02516-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tumor-initiating cells (TIC), also known as cancer stem cells, are considered a specific subpopulation of cells necessary for cancer initiation and metastasis; however, the mechanisms by which they acquire metastatic traits are not well understood. METHODS LAMC2 transcriptional levels were evaluated using publicly available transcriptome data sets, and LAMC2 immunohistochemistry was performed using a tissue microarray composed of PDAC and normal pancreas tissues. Silencing and tracing of LAMC2 was performed using lentiviral shRNA constructs and CRISPR/Cas9-mediated homologous recombination, respectively. The contribution of LAMC2 to PDAC tumorigenicity was explored in vitro by tumor cell invasion, migration, sphere-forming and organoids assays, and in vivo by tumor growth and metastatic assays. mRNA sequencing was performed to identify key cellular pathways upregulated in LAMC2 expressing cells. Metastatic spreading induced by LAMC2- expressing cells was blocked by pharmacological inhibition of transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) signaling. RESULTS We report a LAMC2-expressing cell population, which is endowed with enhanced self-renewal capacity, and is sufficient for tumor initiation and differentiation, and drives metastasis. mRNA profiling of these cells indicates a prominent squamous signature, and differentially activated pathways critical for tumor growth and metastasis, including deregulation of the TGF-β signaling pathway. Treatment with Vactosertib, a new small molecule inhibitor of the TGF-β type I receptor (activin receptor-like kinase-5, ALK5), completely abrogated lung metastasis, primarily originating from LAMC2-expressing cells. CONCLUSIONS We have identified a highly metastatic subpopulation of TICs marked by LAMC2. Strategies aimed at targeting the LAMC2 population may be effective in reducing tumor aggressiveness in PDAC patients. Our results prompt further study of this TIC population in pancreatic cancer and exploration as a potential therapeutic target and/or biomarker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donatella Delle Cave
- grid.5326.20000 0001 1940 4177Institute of Genetics and Biophysics “A. Buzzati-Traverso”, National Research Council (CNR-IGB), 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Silvia Buonaiuto
- grid.5326.20000 0001 1940 4177Institute of Genetics and Biophysics “A. Buzzati-Traverso”, National Research Council (CNR-IGB), 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Bruno Sainz
- grid.466793.90000 0004 1803 1972Department of Cancer Biology, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomedicas “Alberto Sols” (IIBM), CSIC-UAM, 28029 Madrid, Spain ,grid.420232.50000 0004 7643 3507Chronic Diseases and Cancer, Area 3-Instituto Ramon Y Cajal de Investigacion Sanitaria (IRYCIS), 28034 Madrid, Spain ,grid.510933.d0000 0004 8339 0058Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red, Área Cáncer, CIBERONC, ISCIII, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Marco Fantuz
- grid.5608.b0000 0004 1757 3470Department of Biology, University of Padova, 35129 Padova, Italy ,grid.428736.cVeneto Institute of Molecular Medicine (VIMM), 35129 Padova, Italy
| | - Maria Mangini
- grid.5326.20000 0001 1940 4177Institute for Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology, “G. Salvatore” (IEOS), Second Unit, Consiglio Nazionale Delle Ricerche (CNR), 801310 Naples, Italy
| | - Alessandro Carrer
- grid.5608.b0000 0004 1757 3470Department of Biology, University of Padova, 35129 Padova, Italy ,grid.428736.cVeneto Institute of Molecular Medicine (VIMM), 35129 Padova, Italy
| | - Annalisa Di Domenico
- grid.5326.20000 0001 1940 4177Institute of Genetics and Biophysics “A. Buzzati-Traverso”, National Research Council (CNR-IGB), 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Tea Teresa Iavazzo
- grid.5326.20000 0001 1940 4177Institute of Genetics and Biophysics “A. Buzzati-Traverso”, National Research Council (CNR-IGB), 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Gennaro Andolfi
- grid.5326.20000 0001 1940 4177Institute of Genetics and Biophysics “A. Buzzati-Traverso”, National Research Council (CNR-IGB), 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Carme Cortina
- grid.7722.00000 0001 1811 6966Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Baldiri Reixac 10, 08028 Barcelona, Spain ,grid.510933.d0000 0004 8339 0058Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marta Sevillano
- grid.7722.00000 0001 1811 6966Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Baldiri Reixac 10, 08028 Barcelona, Spain ,grid.510933.d0000 0004 8339 0058Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Christopher Heeschen
- grid.16821.3c0000 0004 0368 8293State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Center for Single-Cell Omics, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Vincenza Colonna
- grid.5326.20000 0001 1940 4177Institute of Genetics and Biophysics “A. Buzzati-Traverso”, National Research Council (CNR-IGB), 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Marco Corona
- grid.5326.20000 0001 1940 4177Institute of Genetics and Biophysics “A. Buzzati-Traverso”, National Research Council (CNR-IGB), 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Antonio Cucciardi
- grid.5326.20000 0001 1940 4177Institute of Genetics and Biophysics “A. Buzzati-Traverso”, National Research Council (CNR-IGB), 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Martina Di Guida
- grid.5326.20000 0001 1940 4177Institute of Genetics and Biophysics “A. Buzzati-Traverso”, National Research Council (CNR-IGB), 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Eduard Batlle
- grid.7722.00000 0001 1811 6966Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Baldiri Reixac 10, 08028 Barcelona, Spain ,grid.510933.d0000 0004 8339 0058Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Annachiara De Luca
- grid.5326.20000 0001 1940 4177Institute for Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology, “G. Salvatore” (IEOS), Second Unit, Consiglio Nazionale Delle Ricerche (CNR), 801310 Naples, Italy
| | - Enza Lonardo
- grid.5326.20000 0001 1940 4177Institute of Genetics and Biophysics “A. Buzzati-Traverso”, National Research Council (CNR-IGB), 80131 Naples, Italy
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Ganjoo S, Puebla-Osorio N, Nanez S, Hsu E, Voss T, Barsoumian H, Duong LK, Welsh JW, Cortez MA. Bone morphogenetic proteins, activins, and growth and differentiation factors in tumor immunology and immunotherapy resistance. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1033642. [PMID: 36353620 PMCID: PMC9638036 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1033642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2024] Open
Abstract
The TGF-β superfamily is a group of secreted polypeptides with key roles in exerting and regulating a variety of physiologic effects, especially those related to cell signaling, growth, development, and differentiation. Although its central member, TGF-β, has been extensively reviewed, other members of the family-namely bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), activins, and growth and differentiation factors (GDFs)-have not been as thoroughly investigated. Moreover, although the specific roles of TGF-β signaling in cancer immunology and immunotherapy resistance have been extensively reported, little is known of the roles of BMPs, activins, and GDFs in these domains. This review focuses on how these superfamily members influence key immune cells in cancer progression and resistance to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Maria Angelica Cortez
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
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Liu L, An X, Schaefer M, Yan B, de la Torre C, Hillmer S, Gladkich J, Herr I. Nanosilver inhibits the progression of pancreatic cancer by inducing a paraptosis-like mixed type of cell death. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 153:113511. [PMID: 36076598 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Silver has been in clinical use since ancient times and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have attracted attention in cancer therapy. We investigated the mechanisms by which AgNPs inhibit pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). AgNPs were synthesized and 3 human PDAC and 2 nonmalignant primary cell lines were treated with AgNPs. MTT, MAPK, colony, spheroid and scratch assays, Western blotting, TEM, annexin V, 7-AAD, and H2DCFDA staining, FACS analysis, mRNA array and bioinformatics analyses, tumor xenograft transplantation, and immunohistochemistry of the treated cells were performed. We found that minimal AgNPs amounts selectively eradicated PDAC cells within a few hours. AgNPs inhibited cell migration and spheroid and colony formation, damaged mitochondria, and induced paraptosis-like cell death with the presence of cytoplasmic vacuoles, dilation of the ER and mitochondria, ROS formation, MAPK activity, and p62 and LC3b expression, whereas effects on the nucleus, DNA fragmentation, or caspases were not detectable. AgNPs strongly decreased tumor xenograft growth without side effects and reduced the expression of markers for proliferation and DNA repair, but upregulated paraptosis markers. The results highlight nanosilver as complementary agent to improve the therapeutic efficacy in pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Liu
- Section Surgical Research, Molecular OncoSurgery, Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, Ruprecht Karls University of Heidelberg, Medical Faculty Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - XueFeng An
- Section Surgical Research, Molecular OncoSurgery, Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, Ruprecht Karls University of Heidelberg, Medical Faculty Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Michael Schaefer
- Section Surgical Research, Molecular OncoSurgery, Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, Ruprecht Karls University of Heidelberg, Medical Faculty Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Bin Yan
- Section Surgical Research, Molecular OncoSurgery, Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, Ruprecht Karls University of Heidelberg, Medical Faculty Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Carolina de la Torre
- Microarray Analytics - NPGS Core Facility, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Ruprecht Karls University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Stefan Hillmer
- Electron Microscopy Core Facility, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Jury Gladkich
- Section Surgical Research, Molecular OncoSurgery, Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, Ruprecht Karls University of Heidelberg, Medical Faculty Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Ingrid Herr
- Section Surgical Research, Molecular OncoSurgery, Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, Ruprecht Karls University of Heidelberg, Medical Faculty Heidelberg, Germany.
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Francescangeli F, De Angelis ML, Rossi R, Sette G, Eramo A, Boe A, Guardiola O, Tang T, Yu SC, Minchiotti G, Zeuner A. CRIPTO Is a Marker of Chemotherapy-Induced Stem Cell Expansion in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer. Front Oncol 2022; 12:830873. [PMID: 35719935 PMCID: PMC9200964 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.830873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy is the mainstay for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, NSCLC cells are either intrinsically chemoresistant or rapidly develop therapy resistance. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are widely recognized as the cell population responsible for resistance to systemic therapies, but the molecular responses of CSCs to chemotherapeutic agents are largely unknown. We identified the embryonic protein CRIPTO in stem cell-enriched spheroid cultures of adenocarcinoma (AC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) derived from NSCLC surgical specimens. The CRIPTO-positive population had increased clonogenic capacity and expression of stem cell-related factors. Stemness-related properties were also obtained with forced CRIPTO expression, whereas CRIPTO downregulation resulted in cell cycle blockade and CSCs death. Cell populations positive and negative for CRIPTO expression were interconvertible, and interfering with their reciprocal equilibrium resulted in altered homeostasis of cell expansion both in spheroid cultures and in tumor xenografts. Chemotherapy treatment of NSCLC cells resulted in reduction of cell number followed by increased CRIPTO expression and selective survival of CRIPTO-positive cells. In NSCLC tumor xenografts, chemotherapeutic agents induced partial cell death and tumor stabilization followed by CRIPTO overexpression and tumor progression. Altogether, these findings indicate CRIPTO as a marker of lung CSCs possibly implicated in cancer cell plasticity and post-chemotherapy tumor progression.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maria Laura De Angelis
- Department of Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Rachele Rossi
- Department of Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Sette
- Department of Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Adriana Eramo
- Department of Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Boe
- Core Facilities, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Ombretta Guardiola
- Stem Cell Fate Laboratory, Institute of Genetics and Biophysics "A. Buzzati Traverso", Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Naples, Italy
| | - Tao Tang
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer Center, Southwest Hospital, ChongQing, China.,International Joint Research Center for Precision Biotherapy, Ministry of Science and Technology, ChongQing, China
| | - Shi-Cang Yu
- Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Pathology and Southwest Cancer Center, Southwest Hospital, ChongQing, China.,International Joint Research Center for Precision Biotherapy, Ministry of Science and Technology, ChongQing, China
| | - Gabriella Minchiotti
- Stem Cell Fate Laboratory, Institute of Genetics and Biophysics "A. Buzzati Traverso", Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Naples, Italy
| | - Ann Zeuner
- Department of Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
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36
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Chen YI, Chang CC, Hsu MF, Jeng YM, Tien YW, Chang MC, Chang YT, Hu CM, Lee WH. Homophilic ATP1A1 binding induces activin A secretion to promote EMT of tumor cells and myofibroblast activation. Nat Commun 2022; 13:2945. [PMID: 35618735 PMCID: PMC9135720 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-30638-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor cells with diverse phenotypes and biological behaviors are influenced by stromal cells through secretory factors or direct cell-cell contact. Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is characterized by extensive desmoplasia with fibroblasts as the major cell type. In the present study, we observe enrichment of myofibroblasts in a juxta-tumoral position with tumor cells undergoing epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) that facilitates invasion and correlates with a worse clinical prognosis in PDAC patients. Direct cell-cell contacts forming heterocellular aggregates between fibroblasts and tumor cells are detected in primary pancreatic tumors and circulating tumor microemboli (CTM). Mechanistically, ATP1A1 overexpressed in tumor cells binds to and reorganizes ATP1A1 of fibroblasts that induces calcium oscillations, NF-κB activation, and activin A secretion. Silencing ATP1A1 expression or neutralizing activin A secretion suppress tumor invasion and colonization. Taken together, these results elucidate the direct interplay between tumor cells and bound fibroblasts in PDAC progression, thereby providing potential therapeutic opportunities for inhibiting metastasis by interfering with these cell-cell interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Ing Chen
- Genomics Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chin-Chun Chang
- Genomics Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
- Master Program for Cancer Biology and Drug Discovery, China Medical University and Academia Sinica, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Min-Fen Hsu
- Genomics Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yung-Ming Jeng
- Department of Pathology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Graduate Institute of Pathology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Wen Tien
- Department of Surgery, National Taiwan University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Chu Chang
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Ting Chang
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Mei Hu
- Genomics Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan.
| | - Wen-Hwa Lee
- Genomics Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan.
- Drug Development Center, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan.
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, USA.
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37
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Koltai T, Reshkin SJ, Carvalho TMA, Di Molfetta D, Greco MR, Alfarouk KO, Cardone RA. Resistance to Gemcitabine in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: A Physiopathologic and Pharmacologic Review. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:2486. [PMID: 35626089 PMCID: PMC9139729 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14102486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a very aggressive tumor with a poor prognosis and inadequate response to treatment. Many factors contribute to this therapeutic failure: lack of symptoms until the tumor reaches an advanced stage, leading to late diagnosis; early lymphatic and hematic spread; advanced age of patients; important development of a pro-tumoral and hyperfibrotic stroma; high genetic and metabolic heterogeneity; poor vascular supply; a highly acidic matrix; extreme hypoxia; and early development of resistance to the available therapeutic options. In most cases, the disease is silent for a long time, andwhen it does become symptomatic, it is too late for ablative surgery; this is one of the major reasons explaining the short survival associated with the disease. Even when surgery is possible, relapsesare frequent, andthe causes of this devastating picture are the low efficacy ofand early resistance to all known chemotherapeutic treatments. Thus, it is imperative to analyze the roots of this resistance in order to improve the benefits of therapy. PDAC chemoresistance is the final product of different, but to some extent, interconnected factors. Surgery, being the most adequate treatment for pancreatic cancer and the only one that in a few selected cases can achieve longer survival, is only possible in less than 20% of patients. Thus, the treatment burden relies on chemotherapy in mostcases. While the FOLFIRINOX scheme has a slightly longer overall survival, it also produces many more adverse eventsso that gemcitabine is still considered the first choice for treatment, especially in combination with other compounds/agents. This review discusses the multiple causes of gemcitabine resistance in PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Stephan Joel Reshkin
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari, 70126 Bari, Italy; (T.M.A.C.); (D.D.M.); (M.R.G.); (R.A.C.)
| | - Tiago M. A. Carvalho
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari, 70126 Bari, Italy; (T.M.A.C.); (D.D.M.); (M.R.G.); (R.A.C.)
| | - Daria Di Molfetta
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari, 70126 Bari, Italy; (T.M.A.C.); (D.D.M.); (M.R.G.); (R.A.C.)
| | - Maria Raffaella Greco
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari, 70126 Bari, Italy; (T.M.A.C.); (D.D.M.); (M.R.G.); (R.A.C.)
| | - Khalid Omer Alfarouk
- Zamzam Research Center, Zamzam University College, Khartoum 11123, Sudan;
- Alfarouk Biomedical Research LLC, Temple Terrace, FL 33617, USA
| | - Rosa Angela Cardone
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari, 70126 Bari, Italy; (T.M.A.C.); (D.D.M.); (M.R.G.); (R.A.C.)
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38
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Szymoński K, Milian-Ciesielska K, Lipiec E, Adamek D. Current Pathology Model of Pancreatic Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:2321. [PMID: 35565450 PMCID: PMC9105915 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14092321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) is one of the most aggressive and lethal malignant neoplasms, ranking in seventh place in the world in terms of the incidence of death, with overall 5-year survival rates still below 10%. The knowledge about PC pathomechanisms is rapidly expanding. Daily reports reveal new aspects of tumor biology, including its molecular and morphological heterogeneity, explain complicated "cross-talk" that happens between the cancer cells and tumor stroma, or the nature of the PC-associated neural remodeling (PANR). Staying up-to-date is hard and crucial at the same time. In this review, we are focusing on a comprehensive summary of PC aspects that are important in pathologic reporting, impact patients' outcomes, and bring meaningful information for clinicians. Finally, we show promising new trends in diagnostic technologies that might bring a difference in PC early diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krzysztof Szymoński
- Department of Pathomorphology, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 31-531 Cracow, Poland;
- Department of Pathomorphology, University Hospital, 30-688 Cracow, Poland;
| | | | - Ewelina Lipiec
- M. Smoluchowski Institute of Physics, Jagiellonian University, 30-348 Cracow, Poland;
| | - Dariusz Adamek
- Department of Pathomorphology, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 31-531 Cracow, Poland;
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Jing Y, Liang W, Zhang L, Tang J, Huang Z. The Role of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in the Induction of Cancer-Stem Cell Phenotype. Front Oncol 2022; 12:817971. [PMID: 35251985 PMCID: PMC8891610 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.817971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) modify and form their microenvironment by recruiting and activating specific cell types such as mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Tumor-infiltrating MSCs help to establish a suitable tumor microenvironment for the restoration of CSCs and tumor progression. In addition, crosstalk between cancer cells and MSCs in the microenvironment induces a CSC phenotype in cancer cells. Many mechanisms are involved in crosstalk between CSCs/cancer cells and MSCs including cell-cell interaction, secretion of exosomes, and paracrine secretion of several molecules including inflammatory mediators, cytokines, and growth factors. Since this crosstalk may contribute to drug resistance, metastasis, and tumor growth, it is suggested that blockade of the crosstalk between MSCs and CSCs/cancer cells can provide a new avenue to improving the cancer therapeutic tools. In this review, we will discuss the role of MSCs in the induction of cancer stem cell phenotype and the restoration of CSCs. We also discuss targeting the crosstalk between MSCs and CSCs/cancer cells as a therapeutic strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanming Jing
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Shaoxing People’s Hospital (Shaoxing Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine), Shaoxing, China
| | - Wenqing Liang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Zhoushan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Zhoushan, China
| | - Lin Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, Shaoxing People’s Hospital, Shaoxing Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Shaoxing, China
| | - Junjun Tang
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Zongliang Huang, ; Junjun Tang ,
| | - Zongliang Huang
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Zongliang Huang, ; Junjun Tang ,
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Ponomarev A, Gilazieva Z, Solovyeva V, Allegrucci C, Rizvanov A. Intrinsic and Extrinsic Factors Impacting Cancer Stemness and Tumor Progression. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:970. [PMID: 35205716 PMCID: PMC8869813 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14040970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Revised: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor heterogeneity represents an important limitation to the development of effective cancer therapies. The presence of cancer stem cells (CSCs) and their differentiation hierarchies contribute to cancer complexity and confer tumors the ability to grow, resist treatment, survive unfavorable conditions, and invade neighboring and distant tissues. A large body of research is currently focusing on understanding the properties of CSCs, including their cellular and molecular origin, as well as their biological behavior in different tumor types. In turn, this knowledge informs strategies for targeting these tumor initiating cells and related cancer stemness. Cancer stemness is modulated by the tumor microenvironment, which influences CSC function and survival. Several advanced in vitro models are currently being developed to study cancer stemness in order to advance new knowledge of the key molecular pathways involved in CSC self-renewal and dormancy, as well as to mimic the complexity of patients' tumors in pre-clinical drug testing. In this review, we discuss CSCs and the modulation of cancer stemness by the tumor microenvironment, stemness factors and signaling pathways. In addition, we introduce current models that allow the study of CSCs for the development of new targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexey Ponomarev
- Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, 420008 Kazan, Russia; (A.P.); (Z.G.); (V.S.)
| | - Zarema Gilazieva
- Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, 420008 Kazan, Russia; (A.P.); (Z.G.); (V.S.)
| | - Valeriya Solovyeva
- Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, 420008 Kazan, Russia; (A.P.); (Z.G.); (V.S.)
| | - Cinzia Allegrucci
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science (SVMS) and Biodiscovery Institute, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK;
| | - Albert Rizvanov
- Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, 420008 Kazan, Russia; (A.P.); (Z.G.); (V.S.)
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Fan B, Zhang Q, Wang N, Wang G. LncRNAs, the Molecules Involved in Communications With Colorectal Cancer Stem Cells. Front Oncol 2022; 12:811374. [PMID: 35155247 PMCID: PMC8829571 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.811374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer stem cells (CRCSCs) can actively self-renew, as well as having multidirectional differentiation and tumor regeneration abilities. Because the high functional activities of CRCSCs are associated with low cure rates in patients with colorectal cancer, efforts have sought to determine the function and regulatory mechanisms of CRCSCs. To date, however, the potential regulatory mechanisms of CRCSCs remain incompletely understood. Many non-coding genes are involved in tumor invasion and spread through their regulation of CRCSCs, with long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) being important non-coding RNAs. LncRNAs may be involved in the colorectal cancer development and drug resistance through their regulation of CRCSCs. This review systematically evaluates the latest research on the ability of lncRNAs to regulate CRCSC signaling pathways and the involvement of these lncRNAs in colorectal cancer promotion and suppression. The regulatory network of lncRNAs in the CRCSC signaling pathway has been determined. Further analysis of the potential clinical applications of lncRNAs as novel clinical diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for colorectal cancer may provide new ideas and protocols for the prevention and treatment of colorectal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boyang Fan
- Department of Colorectal Cancer Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (Zhejiang Cancer Hospital), Hangzhou, China
| | - Ning Wang
- Department of Pharmacology (State-Province Key Laboratories of Biomedicine-Pharmaceutics of China, Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research, Ministry of Education), College of Pharmacy, Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Guiyu Wang
- Department of Colorectal Cancer Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
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Shen S, Wang Q, Wang X, Ding J, Chen F, Xiao Y, Qin T, Qian W, Li J, Ma Q, Ma J. Nodal Enhances Perineural Invasion in Pancreatic Cancer by Promoting Tumor-Nerve Convergence. JOURNAL OF HEALTHCARE ENGINEERING 2022; 2022:9658890. [PMID: 35126957 PMCID: PMC8813265 DOI: 10.1155/2022/9658890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Perineural invasion (PNI) is a typical feature of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), which occurs in most cases. The embryonic protein Nodal plays a critical role in embryonic neural development and is overexpressed in human pancreatic cancer. In this study, we explored the contribution of Nodal to pancreatic cancer PNI and progression. We evaluated the function of Nodal in PNI by coculturing rat dorsal root ganglia and pancreatic cancer cells in vitro and performing cellular and molecular biology assays. The results illustrate that Nodal upregulates NGF (nerve growth factor), BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), and GDNF (glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor) expression in pancreatic cancer cells and promotes cancer cell migration/invasion. Furthermore, in the in vitro 3D PNI model, Nodal enhances nerve outgrowth to pancreatic cancer cell colonies. Our study indicates that Nodal participates in tumor invasion by mediating neural and tumor cell signaling interactions, and inhibiting the expression of Nodal represents a potential strategy for targeting PNI in pancreatic cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sugang Shen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030001, China
| | - Qiqi Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Xueni Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Jiachun Ding
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Fan Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Ying Xiao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Tao Qin
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Weikun Qian
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Jiahui Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Qingyong Ma
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Jiguang Ma
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710061, China
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Sumbly V, Landry I. Understanding pancreatic cancer stem cells and their role in carcinogenesis: a narrative review. Stem Cell Investig 2022; 9:1. [PMID: 35242873 PMCID: PMC8832159 DOI: 10.21037/sci-2021-067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 08/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this review article is to describe the pathogenesis of pancreatic cancer and to better understand the role of abnormal stem cells in the development of pancreatic cancer. BACKGROUND Pancreatic cancer is a highly fatal disease that is caused by the uncontrolled proliferation of pancreatic exocrine or neuroendocrine glands. It is believed that pancreatic cancers arise from a small population of abnormal cancer stem cells (CSCs) that promote tumorigenesis, tumor metastasis and therapeutic resistance. The molecular markers CD133, CXCR4, DCLK1, c-MET, ABCG2 and Lgr5 are routinely used to detected and observe the behaviours of pancreatic cancer stem cells (PCSCs). METHODS A comprehensive search was performed on PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, Clinicaltrials.gov and Web of Science using related keywords. Articles focusing on PCSCs and pancreatic cancer pathogenesis, biochemistry and clinical trials were selected. CONCLUSIONS Although very little is known about the exact cause of pancreatic cancer, PCSCs seem to play an important role in carcinogenesis. Mutated biochemical cascades include Sonic Hedgehog, K-RAS-JNK, DLL4/Notch and Nodal/Activin. Several clinical trials are trying to determine if the transplantation of hematopoietic stem cell or peripheral stem cells could be useful for the treatment of such an aggressive tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vikram Sumbly
- Department of Internal Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai/NYC Health & Hospitals|Queens, Jamaica, NY, USA
| | - Ian Landry
- Department of Internal Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai/NYC Health & Hospitals|Queens, Jamaica, NY, USA
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Leon F, Seshacharyulu P, Nimmakayala RK, Chugh S, Karmakar S, Nallasamy P, Vengoji R, Rachagani S, Cox JL, Mallya K, Batra SK, Ponnusamy MP. Reduction in O-glycome induces differentially glycosylated CD44 to promote stemness and metastasis in pancreatic cancer. Oncogene 2022; 41:57-71. [PMID: 34675409 PMCID: PMC8727507 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-021-02047-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Aberrant protein glycosylation has been shown to have a significant contribution in aggressive cancer, including pancreatic cancer (PC). Emerging evidence has implicated the involvement of cancer stem cells (CSCs) in PC aggressiveness; however, the contribution of glycosylation on self-renewal properties and maintenance of CSC is understudied. Here, using several in vitro and in vivo models lacking C1GALT1 expression, we identified the role of aberrant O-glycosylation in stemness properties and aggressive PC metastasis. A loss in C1GALT1 was found to result in the truncation of O-glycosylation on several glycoproteins with an enrichment of Tn carbohydrate antigen. Mapping of Tn-bearing glycoproteins in C1GALT1 KO cells identified significant Tn enrichment on CSC glycoprotein CD44. Notably, a loss of C1GALT1 in PC cells was found to enhance CSC features (side population-SP, ALDH1+, and tumorspheres) and self-renewal markers NANOG, SOX9, and KLF4. Furthermore, a loss of CD44 in existing C1GALT1 KO cells decreased NANOG expression and CSC features. We determined that O-glycosylation of CD44 activates ERK/NF-kB signaling, which results in increased NANOG expression in PC cells that facilitated the alteration of CSC features, suggesting that NANOG is essential for PC stemness. Finally, we identified that loss of C1GALT1 expression was found to augment tumorigenic and metastatic potential, while an additional loss of CD44 in these cells reversed the effects. Overall, our results identified that truncation of O-glycans on CD44 increases NANOG activation that mediates increased CSC activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Leon
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | | | - Rama K Nimmakayala
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Seema Chugh
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Saswati Karmakar
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Palanisamy Nallasamy
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Raghupathy Vengoji
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Satyanarayana Rachagani
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Jesse L Cox
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Kavita Mallya
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Surinder K Batra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA.
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, and Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA.
| | - Moorthy P Ponnusamy
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA.
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, and Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA.
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Cortesi M, Zanoni M, Pirini F, Tumedei MM, Ravaioli S, Rapposelli IG, Frassineti GL, Bravaccini S. Pancreatic Cancer and Cellular Senescence: Tumor Microenvironment under the Spotlight. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 23:ijms23010254. [PMID: 35008679 PMCID: PMC8745092 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23010254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has one of the most dismal prognoses of all cancers due to its late manifestation and resistance to current therapies. Accumulating evidence has suggested that the malignant behavior of this cancer is mainly influenced by the associated strongly immunosuppressive, desmoplastic microenvironment and by the relatively low mutational burden. PDAC develops and progresses through a multi-step process. Early in tumorigenesis, cancer cells must evade the effects of cellular senescence, which slows proliferation and promotes the immune-mediated elimination of pre-malignant cells. The role of senescence as a tumor suppressor has been well-established; however, recent evidence has revealed novel pro-tumorigenic paracrine functions of senescent cells towards their microenvironment. Understanding the interactions between tumors and their microenvironment is a growing research field, with evidence having been provided that non-tumoral cells composing the tumor microenvironment (TME) influence tumor proliferation, metabolism, cell death, and therapeutic resistance. Simultaneously, cancer cells shape a tumor-supportive and immunosuppressive environment, influencing both non-tumoral neighboring and distant cells. The overall intention of this review is to provide an overview of the interplay that occurs between senescent and non-senescent cell types and to describe how such interplay may have an impact on PDAC progression. Specifically, the effects and the molecular changes occurring in non-cancerous cells during senescence, and how these may contribute to a tumor-permissive microenvironment, will be discussed. Finally, senescence targeting strategies will be briefly introduced, highlighting their potential in the treatment of PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michela Cortesi
- Biosciences Laboratory, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) “Dino Amadori”, 47014 Meldola, Italy; (M.Z.); (F.P.); (M.M.T.); (S.R.); (S.B.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Michele Zanoni
- Biosciences Laboratory, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) “Dino Amadori”, 47014 Meldola, Italy; (M.Z.); (F.P.); (M.M.T.); (S.R.); (S.B.)
| | - Francesca Pirini
- Biosciences Laboratory, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) “Dino Amadori”, 47014 Meldola, Italy; (M.Z.); (F.P.); (M.M.T.); (S.R.); (S.B.)
| | - Maria Maddalena Tumedei
- Biosciences Laboratory, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) “Dino Amadori”, 47014 Meldola, Italy; (M.Z.); (F.P.); (M.M.T.); (S.R.); (S.B.)
| | - Sara Ravaioli
- Biosciences Laboratory, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) “Dino Amadori”, 47014 Meldola, Italy; (M.Z.); (F.P.); (M.M.T.); (S.R.); (S.B.)
| | - Ilario Giovanni Rapposelli
- Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) “Dino Amadori”, 47014 Meldola, Italy; (I.G.R.); (G.L.F.)
| | - Giovanni Luca Frassineti
- Department of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) “Dino Amadori”, 47014 Meldola, Italy; (I.G.R.); (G.L.F.)
| | - Sara Bravaccini
- Biosciences Laboratory, IRCCS Istituto Romagnolo per lo Studio dei Tumori (IRST) “Dino Amadori”, 47014 Meldola, Italy; (M.Z.); (F.P.); (M.M.T.); (S.R.); (S.B.)
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46
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Growth differentiation factor 1-induced tumour plasticity provides a therapeutic window for immunotherapy in hepatocellular carcinoma. Nat Commun 2021; 12:7142. [PMID: 34880251 PMCID: PMC8654996 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-27525-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumour lineage plasticity is an emerging hallmark of aggressive tumours. Tumour cells usually hijack developmental signalling pathways to gain cellular plasticity and evade therapeutic targeting. In the present study, the secreted protein growth and differentiation factor 1 (GDF1) is found to be closely associated with poor tumour differentiation. Overexpression of GDF1 suppresses cell proliferation but strongly enhances tumour dissemination and metastasis. Ectopic expression of GDF1 can induce the dedifferentiation of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells into their ancestral lineages and reactivate a broad panel of cancer testis antigens (CTAs), which further stimulate the immunogenicity of HCC cells to immune-based therapies. Mechanistic studies reveal that GDF1 functions through the Activin receptor-like kinase 7 (ALK7)-Mothers against decapentaplegic homolog 2/3 (SMAD2/3) signalling cascade and suppresses the epigenetic regulator Lysine specific demethylase 1 (LSD1) to boost CTA expression. GDF1-induced tumour lineage plasticity might be an Achilles heel for HCC immunotherapy. Inhibition of LSD1 based on GDF1 biomarker prescreening might widen the therapeutic window for immune checkpoint inhibitors in the clinic. Poorly differentiated hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is an aggressive disease with poor prognosis. Here the authors show that GDF1, a member of the TGF-β superfamily, is highly expressed in high-grade poorly differentiated HCC and is associated with tumor plasticity, and that GDF1-induced reexpression of cancer testis antigens could render tumors sensitive to immune checkpoint inhibition.
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Kumari R, Irudayam MJ, Al Abdallah Q, Jones TL, Mims TS, Puchowicz MA, Pierre JF, Brown CW. SMAD2 and SMAD3 differentially regulate adiposity and the growth of subcutaneous white adipose tissue. FASEB J 2021; 35:e22018. [PMID: 34731499 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202101244r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Adipose tissue is the primary site of energy storage, playing important roles in health. While adipose research largely focuses on obesity, fat also has other critical functions, producing adipocytokines and contributing to normal nutrient metabolism, which in turn play important roles in satiety and total energy homeostasis. SMAD2/3 proteins are downstream mediators of activin signaling, which regulate critical preadipocyte and mature adipocyte functions. Smad2 global knockout mice exhibit embryonic lethality, whereas global loss of Smad3 protects mice against diet-induced obesity. The direct contributions of Smad2 and Smad3 in adipose tissues, however, are unknown. Here, we sought to determine the primary effects of adipocyte-selective reduction of Smad2 or Smad3 on diet-induced adiposity using Smad2 or Smad3 "floxed" mice intercrossed with Adiponectin-Cre mice. Additionally, we examined visceral and subcutaneous preadipocyte differentiation efficiency in vitro. Almost all wild type subcutaneous preadipocytes differentiated into mature adipocytes. In contrast, visceral preadipocytes differentiated poorly. Exogenous activin A suppressed differentiation of preadipocytes from both depots. Smad2 conditional knockout (Smad2cKO) mice did not exhibit significant effects on weight gain, irrespective of diet, whereas Smad3 conditional knockout (Smad3cKO) male mice displayed a trend of reduced body weight on high-fat diet. On both diets, Smad3cKO mice displayed an adipose depot-selective phenotype, with a significant reduction in subcutaneous fat mass but not visceral fat mass. Our data suggest that Smad3 is an important contributor to the maintenance of subcutaneous white adipose tissue in a sex-selective fashion. These findings have implications for understanding SMAD-mediated, depot selective regulation of adipocyte growth and differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roshan Kumari
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA.,Department of Genetics, Genomics and Informatics, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Maria Johnson Irudayam
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Qusai Al Abdallah
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Tamekia L Jones
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA.,Department of Preventive Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA.,Children's Foundation Research Institute, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Tahliyah S Mims
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Michelle A Puchowicz
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Joseph F Pierre
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
| | - Chester W Brown
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA.,Department of Genetics, Genomics and Informatics, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee, USA.,Le Bonheur Children's Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, USA
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48
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Chisari A, Golán I, Campisano S, Gélabert C, Moustakas A, Sancho P, Caja L. Glucose and Amino Acid Metabolic Dependencies Linked to Stemness and Metastasis in Different Aggressive Cancer Types. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:723798. [PMID: 34588983 PMCID: PMC8473699 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.723798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Malignant cells are commonly characterised by being capable of invading tissue, growing self-sufficiently and uncontrollably, being insensitive to apoptosis induction and controlling their environment, for example inducing angiogenesis. Amongst them, a subpopulation of cancer cells, called cancer stem cells (CSCs) shows sustained replicative potential, tumor-initiating properties and chemoresistance. These characteristics make CSCs responsible for therapy resistance, tumor relapse and growth in distant organs, causing metastatic dissemination. For these reasons, eliminating CSCs is necessary in order to achieve long-term survival of cancer patients. New insights in cancer metabolism have revealed that cellular metabolism in tumors is highly heterogeneous and that CSCs show specific metabolic traits supporting their unique functionality. Indeed, CSCs adapt differently to the deprivation of specific nutrients that represent potentially targetable vulnerabilities. This review focuses on three of the most aggressive tumor types: pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and glioblastoma (GBM). The aim is to prove whether CSCs from different tumour types share common metabolic requirements and responses to nutrient starvation, by outlining the diverse roles of glucose and amino acids within tumour cells and in the tumour microenvironment, as well as the consequences of their deprivation. Beyond their role in biosynthesis, they serve as energy sources and help maintain redox balance. In addition, glucose and amino acid derivatives contribute to immune responses linked to tumourigenesis and metastasis. Furthermore, potential metabolic liabilities are identified and discussed as targets for therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Chisari
- Department of Chemistry, School of Sciences, National University of Mar del Plata, Mar del Plata, Argentina
| | - Irene Golán
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Science for Life Laboratory, Biomedical Center, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Sabrina Campisano
- Department of Chemistry, School of Sciences, National University of Mar del Plata, Mar del Plata, Argentina
| | - Caroline Gélabert
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Science for Life Laboratory, Biomedical Center, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Aristidis Moustakas
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Science for Life Laboratory, Biomedical Center, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Patricia Sancho
- Translational Research Unit, Hospital Universitario Miguel Servet, IIS Aragon, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Laia Caja
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Science for Life Laboratory, Biomedical Center, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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49
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Pook H, Pauklin S. Mechanisms of Cancer Cell Death: Therapeutic Implications for Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:4834. [PMID: 34638318 PMCID: PMC8508208 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13194834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a type of cancer that is strongly associated with poor prognosis and short median survival times. In stark contrast to the progress seen in other cancer types in recent decades, discoveries of new treatments in PDAC have been few and far between and there has been little improvement in overall survival (OS). The difficulty in treating this disease is multifactorial, contributed to by late presentation, difficult access to primary tumour sites, an 'immunologically cold' phenotype, and a strong tendency of recurrence likely driven by cancer stem cell (CSC) populations. Furthermore, apparently contrasting roles of tumour components (such as fibrotic stroma) and intracellular pathways (such as autophagy and TGFβ) have made it difficult to distinguish beneficial from detrimental drug targets. Despite this, progress has been made in the field, including the determination of mFOLFIRINOX as the standard-of-care adjuvant therapy and the discovery of KRASG12C mutant inhibitors. Moreover, new research, as outlined in this review, has highlighted promising new approaches including the targeting of the tumour microenvironment, enhancement of immunotherapies, epigenetic modulation, and destruction of CSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Siim Pauklin
- Botnar Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, Old Road, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7LD, UK;
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50
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Freeman DW, Rodrigues Sousa E, Karkampouna S, Zoni E, Gray PC, Salomon DS, Kruithof-de Julio M, Spike BT. Whence CRIPTO: The Reemergence of an Oncofetal Factor in 'Wounds' That Fail to Heal. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:10164. [PMID: 34576327 PMCID: PMC8472190 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221810164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Revised: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
There exists a set of factors termed oncofetal proteins that play key roles in ontogeny before they decline or disappear as the organism's tissues achieve homeostasis, only to then re-emerge in cancer. Although the unique therapeutic potential presented by such factors has been recognized for more than a century, their clinical utility has yet to be fully realized1. This review highlights the small signaling protein CRIPTO encoded by the tumor derived growth factor 1 (TDGF1/Tdgf1) gene, an oft cited oncofetal protein whose presence in the cancer literature as a tumor promoter, diagnostic marker and viable therapeutic target continues to grow. We touch lightly on features well established and well-reviewed since its discovery more than 30 years ago, including CRIPTO's early developmental roles and modulation of SMAD2/3 activation by a selected set of transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) family ligands. We predominantly focus instead on more recent and less well understood additions to the CRIPTO signaling repertoire, on its potential upstream regulators and on new conceptual ground for understanding its mode of action in the multicellular and often stressful contexts of neoplastic transformation and progression. We ask whence it re-emerges in cancer and where it 'hides' between the time of its fetal activity and its oncogenic reemergence. In this regard, we examine CRIPTO's restriction to rare cells in the adult, its potential for paracrine crosstalk, and its emerging role in inflammation and tissue regeneration-roles it may reprise in tumorigenesis, acting on subsets of tumor cells to foster cancer initiation and progression. We also consider critical gaps in knowledge and resources that stand between the recent, exciting momentum in the CRIPTO field and highly actionable CRIPTO manipulation for cancer therapy and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- David W. Freeman
- Department of Oncological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84113, USA;
| | - Elisa Rodrigues Sousa
- Urology Research Laboratory, Department for BioMedical Research DBMR, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland; (E.R.S.); (S.K.); (E.Z.)
| | - Sofia Karkampouna
- Urology Research Laboratory, Department for BioMedical Research DBMR, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland; (E.R.S.); (S.K.); (E.Z.)
| | - Eugenio Zoni
- Urology Research Laboratory, Department for BioMedical Research DBMR, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland; (E.R.S.); (S.K.); (E.Z.)
| | - Peter C. Gray
- Peptide Biology Laboratory, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA;
| | - David S. Salomon
- Mouse Cancer Genetics Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD 20893, USA;
| | - Marianna Kruithof-de Julio
- Urology Research Laboratory, Department for BioMedical Research DBMR, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland; (E.R.S.); (S.K.); (E.Z.)
- Translational Organoid Models, Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
- Bern Center for Precision Medicine, Inselspital, University Hospital of Bern, 3010 Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Urology, Inselspital, University Hospital of Bern, 3010 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Benjamin T. Spike
- Department of Oncological Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84113, USA;
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