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Gharib E, Robichaud GA. From Crypts to Cancer: A Holistic Perspective on Colorectal Carcinogenesis and Therapeutic Strategies. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:9463. [PMID: 39273409 PMCID: PMC11395697 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25179463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2024] [Revised: 08/19/2024] [Accepted: 08/24/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) represents a significant global health burden, with high incidence and mortality rates worldwide. Recent progress in research highlights the distinct clinical and molecular characteristics of colon versus rectal cancers, underscoring tumor location's importance in treatment approaches. This article provides a comprehensive review of our current understanding of CRC epidemiology, risk factors, molecular pathogenesis, and management strategies. We also present the intricate cellular architecture of colonic crypts and their roles in intestinal homeostasis. Colorectal carcinogenesis multistep processes are also described, covering the conventional adenoma-carcinoma sequence, alternative serrated pathways, and the influential Vogelstein model, which proposes sequential APC, KRAS, and TP53 alterations as drivers. The consensus molecular CRC subtypes (CMS1-CMS4) are examined, shedding light on disease heterogeneity and personalized therapy implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ehsan Gharib
- Département de Chimie et Biochimie, Université de Moncton, Moncton, NB E1A 3E9, Canada
- Atlantic Cancer Research Institute, Moncton, NB E1C 8X3, Canada
| | - Gilles A Robichaud
- Département de Chimie et Biochimie, Université de Moncton, Moncton, NB E1A 3E9, Canada
- Atlantic Cancer Research Institute, Moncton, NB E1C 8X3, Canada
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2
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Ahmed AU, Almasabi S, Firestein R, Williams BRG. Integrin-linked kinase expression in myeloid cells promotes colon tumorigenesis. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1270194. [PMID: 38077324 PMCID: PMC10710162 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1270194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common forms of cancer worldwide and treatment options for advanced CRC, which has a low 5-year survival rate, remain limited. Integrin-linked kinase (ILK), a multifunctional, scaffolding, pseudo-kinase regulating many integrin-mediated cellular processes, is highly expressed in many cancers. However, the role of ILK in cancer progression is yet to be fully understood. We have previously uncovered a pro-inflammatory role for myeloid-specific ILK in dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced colitis. To establish a correlation between chronic intestinal inflammation and colorectal cancer (CRC), we investigated the role of myeloid-ILK in mouse models of CRC. When myeloid-ILK deficient mice along with the WT control mice were subjected to colitis-associated and APCmin/+-driven CRC, tumour burden was reduced by myeloid-ILK deficiency in both models. The tumour-promoting phenotype of macrophages, M2 polarization, in vitro was impaired by the ILK deficiency and the number of M2-specific marker CD206-expressing tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs) in vivo were significantly diminished in myeloid-ILK deficient mice. Myeloid-ILK deficient mice showed enhanced tumour infiltration of CD8+ T cells and reduced tumour infiltration of FOXP3+ T cells in colitis-associated and APCmin/+-driven CRC, respectively, with an overall elevated CD8+/FOXP3+ ratio suggesting an anti-tumour immune phenotypes. In patient CRC tissue microarrays we observed elevated ILK+ myeloid (ILK+ CD11b+) cells in tumour sections compared to adjacent normal tissues, suggesting a conserved role for myeloid-ILK in CRC development in both human and animal models. This study identifies myeloid-specific ILK expression as novel driver of CRC, which could be targeted as a potential therapeutic option for advanced disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afsar U Ahmed
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Saleh Almasabi
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Ron Firestein
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Bryan R G Williams
- Centre for Cancer Research, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
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3
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Higginbottom SL, Tomaskovic-Crook E, Crook JM. Considerations for modelling diffuse high-grade gliomas and developing clinically relevant therapies. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2023; 42:507-541. [PMID: 37004686 PMCID: PMC10348989 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-023-10100-7] [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: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 04/04/2023]
Abstract
Diffuse high-grade gliomas contain some of the most dangerous human cancers that lack curative treatment options. The recent molecular stratification of gliomas by the World Health Organisation in 2021 is expected to improve outcomes for patients in neuro-oncology through the development of treatments targeted to specific tumour types. Despite this promise, research is hindered by the lack of preclinical modelling platforms capable of recapitulating the heterogeneity and cellular phenotypes of tumours residing in their native human brain microenvironment. The microenvironment provides cues to subsets of glioma cells that influence proliferation, survival, and gene expression, thus altering susceptibility to therapeutic intervention. As such, conventional in vitro cellular models poorly reflect the varied responses to chemotherapy and radiotherapy seen in these diverse cellular states that differ in transcriptional profile and differentiation status. In an effort to improve the relevance of traditional modelling platforms, recent attention has focused on human pluripotent stem cell-based and tissue engineering techniques, such as three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting and microfluidic devices. The proper application of these exciting new technologies with consideration of tumour heterogeneity and microenvironmental interactions holds potential to develop more applicable models and clinically relevant therapies. In doing so, we will have a better chance of translating preclinical research findings to patient populations, thereby addressing the current derisory oncology clinical trial success rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah L Higginbottom
- Intelligent Polymer Research Institute, AIIM Facility, Innovation Campus, University of Wollongong, Fairy Meadow, NSW, 2519, Australia
- Arto Hardy Family Biomedical Innovation Hub, Chris O'Brien Lifehouse, Camperdown, NSW, 2050, Australia
| | - Eva Tomaskovic-Crook
- Intelligent Polymer Research Institute, AIIM Facility, Innovation Campus, University of Wollongong, Fairy Meadow, NSW, 2519, Australia.
- Arto Hardy Family Biomedical Innovation Hub, Chris O'Brien Lifehouse, Camperdown, NSW, 2050, Australia.
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, 2006, Australia.
| | - Jeremy M Crook
- Intelligent Polymer Research Institute, AIIM Facility, Innovation Campus, University of Wollongong, Fairy Meadow, NSW, 2519, Australia.
- Arto Hardy Family Biomedical Innovation Hub, Chris O'Brien Lifehouse, Camperdown, NSW, 2050, Australia.
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, 2006, Australia.
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4
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Amirkhah R, Gilroy K, Malla SB, Lannagan TRM, Byrne RM, Fisher NC, Corry SM, Mohamed NE, Naderi-Meshkin H, Mills ML, Campbell AD, Ridgway RA, Ahmaderaghi B, Murray R, Llergo AB, Sanz-Pamplona R, Villanueva A, Batlle E, Salazar R, Lawler M, Sansom OJ, Dunne PD. MmCMS: mouse models' consensus molecular subtypes of colorectal cancer. Br J Cancer 2023; 128:1333-1343. [PMID: 36717674 PMCID: PMC10050155 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-023-02157-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Colorectal cancer (CRC) primary tumours are molecularly classified into four consensus molecular subtypes (CMS1-4). Genetically engineered mouse models aim to faithfully mimic the complexity of human cancers and, when appropriately aligned, represent ideal pre-clinical systems to test new drug treatments. Despite its importance, dual-species classification has been limited by the lack of a reliable approach. Here we utilise, develop and test a set of options for human-to-mouse CMS classifications of CRC tissue. METHODS Using transcriptional data from established collections of CRC tumours, including human (TCGA cohort; n = 577) and mouse (n = 57 across n = 8 genotypes) tumours with combinations of random forest and nearest template prediction algorithms, alongside gene ontology collections, we comprehensively assess the performance of a suite of new dual-species classifiers. RESULTS We developed three approaches: MmCMS-A; a gene-level classifier, MmCMS-B; an ontology-level approach and MmCMS-C; a combined pathway system encompassing multiple biological and histological signalling cascades. Although all options could identify tumours associated with stromal-rich CMS4-like biology, MmCMS-A was unable to accurately classify the biology underpinning epithelial-like subtypes (CMS2/3) in mouse tumours. CONCLUSIONS When applying human-based transcriptional classifiers to mouse tumour data, a pathway-level classifier, rather than an individual gene-level system, is optimal. Our R package enables researchers to select suitable mouse models of human CRC subtype for their experimental testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raheleh Amirkhah
- The Patrick G Johnston Centre for Cancer Research, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | | | - Sudhir B Malla
- The Patrick G Johnston Centre for Cancer Research, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | | | - Ryan M Byrne
- The Patrick G Johnston Centre for Cancer Research, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Natalie C Fisher
- The Patrick G Johnston Centre for Cancer Research, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Shania M Corry
- The Patrick G Johnston Centre for Cancer Research, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | | | - Hojjat Naderi-Meshkin
- Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | | | | | | | - Baharak Ahmaderaghi
- School of Electronics, Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Richard Murray
- The Patrick G Johnston Centre for Cancer Research, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Antoni Berenguer Llergo
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rebeca Sanz-Pamplona
- Unit of Biomarkers and Susceptibility, Oncology Data Analytics Program (ODAP), Catalan Institute of Oncology (ICO), Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL) and CIBERESP, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alberto Villanueva
- Chemoresistance and Predictive Factors Group, Program Against Cancer Therapeutic Resistance (ProCURE), Catalan Institute of Oncology (ICO), Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet del Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Eduard Batlle
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), Barcelona, Spain
- Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ramon Salazar
- Department of Medical Oncology, Catalan Institute of Oncology (ICO), Oncobell Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), CIBERONC and Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mark Lawler
- The Patrick G Johnston Centre for Cancer Research, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Owen J Sansom
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Glasgow, UK
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Philip D Dunne
- The Patrick G Johnston Centre for Cancer Research, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK.
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Glasgow, UK.
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5
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Wang L, Wu J, Chen J, Dou W, Zhao Q, Han J, Liu J, Su W, Li A, Liu P, An Z, Xu C, Sun Y. Advances in reconstructing intestinal functionalities in vitro: From two/three dimensional-cell culture platforms to human intestine-on-a-chip. Talanta 2021; 226:122097. [PMID: 33676654 DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2021.122097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Revised: 01/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Standard two/three dimensional (2D/3D)-cell culture platforms have facilitated the understanding of the communications between various cell types and their microenvironments. However, they are still limited in recapitulating the complex functionalities in vivo, such as tissue formation, tissue-tissue interface, and mechanical/biochemical microenvironments of tissues and organs. Intestine-on-a-chip platforms offer a new way to mimic intestinal behaviors and functionalities by constructing in vitro intestinal models in microfluidic devices. This review summarizes the advances and limitations of the state-of-the-art 2D/3D-cell culture platforms, animal models, intestine chips, and the combined multi-organ chips related with intestines. Their applications to studying intestinal functions, drug testing, and disease modeling are introduced. Different intestinal cell sources are compared in terms of gene expression abilities and the recapitulated intestinal morphologies. Among these cells, cells isolated form human intestinal tissues and derived from pluripotent stem cells appear to be more suitable for in vitro reconstruction of intestinal organs. Key challenges of current intestine-on-a-chip platforms and future directions are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Wang
- Advanced Micro and Nano-instruments Center, School of Mechanical & Automotive Engineering, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan, 250353, China
| | - Jian Wu
- Advanced Micro and Nano-instruments Center, School of Mechanical & Automotive Engineering, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan, 250353, China
| | - Jun Chen
- Advanced Micro and Nano-instruments Center, School of Mechanical & Automotive Engineering, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan, 250353, China.
| | - Wenkun Dou
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, 5 King's College Rd, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 3G8, Canada
| | - Qili Zhao
- Institute of Robotics and Automatic Information System (IRAIS) and the Tianjin Key Laboratory of Intelligent Robotic (tjKLIR), Nankai University, Tianjin, 300350, China
| | - Junlei Han
- Advanced Micro and Nano-instruments Center, School of Mechanical & Automotive Engineering, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan, 250353, China
| | - Jinliang Liu
- Advanced Micro and Nano-instruments Center, School of Mechanical & Automotive Engineering, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan, 250353, China
| | - Weiguang Su
- Advanced Micro and Nano-instruments Center, School of Mechanical & Automotive Engineering, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan, 250353, China
| | - Anqing Li
- Advanced Micro and Nano-instruments Center, School of Mechanical & Automotive Engineering, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan, 250353, China
| | - Pengbo Liu
- Advanced Micro and Nano-instruments Center, School of Mechanical & Automotive Engineering, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan, 250353, China
| | - Zhao An
- Changhai Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Chonghai Xu
- Advanced Micro and Nano-instruments Center, School of Mechanical & Automotive Engineering, Qilu University of Technology (Shandong Academy of Sciences), Jinan, 250353, China
| | - Yu Sun
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, 5 King's College Rd, Toronto, Ontario, M5S 3G8, Canada
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6
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Betzler AM, Nanduri LK, Hissa B, Blickensdörfer L, Muders MH, Roy J, Jesinghaus M, Steiger K, Weichert W, Kloor M, Klink B, Schroeder M, Mazzone M, Weitz J, Reissfelder C, Rahbari NN, Schölch S. Differential Effects of Trp53 Alterations in Murine Colorectal Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13040808. [PMID: 33671932 PMCID: PMC7919037 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13040808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2021] [Revised: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Colorectal cancer (CRC) development is a multi-step process resulting in the accumulation of genetic alterations. Despite its high incidence, there are currently no mouse models that accurately recapitulate this process and mimic sporadic CRC. We aimed to develop and characterize a genetically engineered mouse model (GEMM) of Apc/Kras/Trp53 mutant CRC, the most frequent genetic subtype of CRC. METHODS Tumors were induced in mice with conditional mutations or knockouts in Apc, Kras, and Trp53 by a segmental adeno-cre viral infection, monitored via colonoscopy and characterized on multiple levels via immunohistochemistry and next-generation sequencing. RESULTS The model accurately recapitulates human colorectal carcinogenesis clinically, histologically and genetically. The Trp53 R172H hotspot mutation leads to significantly increased metastatic capacity. The effects of Trp53 alterations, as well as the response to treatment of this model, are similar to human CRC. Exome sequencing revealed spontaneous protein-modifying alterations in multiple CRC-related genes and oncogenic pathways, resulting in a genetic landscape resembling human CRC. CONCLUSIONS This model realistically mimics human CRC in many aspects, allows new insights into the role of TP53 in CRC, enables highly predictive preclinical studies and demonstrates the value of GEMMs in current translational cancer research and drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander M. Betzler
- Department of Surgery, Universitätsmedizin Mannheim, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (A.M.B.); (B.H.); (C.R.)
| | - Lahiri K. Nanduri
- Department of Gastrointestinal, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Medizinische Fakultät Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany; (L.K.N.); (J.W.)
| | - Barbara Hissa
- Department of Surgery, Universitätsmedizin Mannheim, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (A.M.B.); (B.H.); (C.R.)
| | - Linda Blickensdörfer
- Department of General, Gastrointestinal and Transplant Surgery, Ruprecht-Karls-Universität Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany;
| | - Michael H. Muders
- Institute of Pathology, University of Bonn Medical Center, 53127 Bonn, Germany;
| | - Janine Roy
- Department of Bioinformatics, Biotechnology Center, Technische Universität Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany; (J.R.); (M.S.)
| | - Moritz Jesinghaus
- Institute of Pathology, Technische Universität München, 81675 München, Germany; (M.J.); (K.S.); (W.W.)
| | - Katja Steiger
- Institute of Pathology, Technische Universität München, 81675 München, Germany; (M.J.); (K.S.); (W.W.)
| | - Wilko Weichert
- Institute of Pathology, Technische Universität München, 81675 München, Germany; (M.J.); (K.S.); (W.W.)
| | - Matthias Kloor
- Department of Applied Tumor Biology, Institute of Pathology, Ruprecht-Karls-Universität Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany;
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Applied Tumor Biology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Barbara Klink
- Institute of Clinical Genetics, Medizinische Fakultät Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany;
| | - Michael Schroeder
- Department of Bioinformatics, Biotechnology Center, Technische Universität Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany; (J.R.); (M.S.)
| | - Massimiliano Mazzone
- Laboratory of Tumor Inflammation and Angiogenesis, Center for Cancer Biology (CCB), VIB, 3000 Leuven, Belgium;
- Laboratory of Tumor Inflammation and Angiogenesis, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jürgen Weitz
- Department of Gastrointestinal, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Medizinische Fakultät Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany; (L.K.N.); (J.W.)
| | - Christoph Reissfelder
- Department of Surgery, Universitätsmedizin Mannheim, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (A.M.B.); (B.H.); (C.R.)
| | - Nuh N. Rahbari
- Department of Surgery, Universitätsmedizin Mannheim, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (A.M.B.); (B.H.); (C.R.)
- Correspondence: (N.N.R.); (S.S.)
| | - Sebastian Schölch
- Department of Surgery, Universitätsmedizin Mannheim, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany; (A.M.B.); (B.H.); (C.R.)
- Junior Clinical Cooperation Unit Translational Surgical Oncology (A430), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Correspondence: (N.N.R.); (S.S.)
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7
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Sarvestani SK, DeHaan RK, Miller PG, Bose S, Shen X, Shuler ML, Huang EH. A Tissue Engineering Approach to Metastatic Colon Cancer. iScience 2020; 23:101719. [PMID: 33205026 PMCID: PMC7653071 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2020.101719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Colon cancer remains the third most common cause of cancer in the US, and the third most common cause of cancer death. Worldwide, colon cancer is the second most common cause of cancer and cancer deaths. At least 25% of patients still present with metastatic disease, and at least 25-30% will develop metastatic colon cancer in the course of their disease. While chemotherapy and surgery remain the mainstay of treatment, understanding the fundamental cellular niche and mechanical properties that result in metastases would facilitate both prevention and cure. Advances in biomaterials, novel 3D primary human cells, modelling using microfluidics and the ability to alter the physical environment, now offers a unique opportunity to develop and test impactful treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samaneh Kamali Sarvestani
- Department of Cancer Biology, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine at Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Reece K. DeHaan
- Department of Cancer Biology, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine at Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
- Department of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine at Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Paula G. Miller
- Departments of Biomedical Engineering, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA
| | - Shree Bose
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - Xiling Shen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - Michael L. Shuler
- Departments of Biomedical Engineering, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA
| | - Emina H. Huang
- Department of Cancer Biology, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine at Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
- Department of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine at Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
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8
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Taibi A, Albouys J, Jacques J, Perrin ML, Yardin C, Durand Fontanier S, Bardet SM. Comparison of implantation sites for the development of peritoneal metastasis in a colorectal cancer mouse model using non-invasive bioluminescence imaging. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0220360. [PMID: 31365553 PMCID: PMC6668798 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0220360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2019] [Accepted: 07/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of cancer mouse models is still needed for the identification and preclinical validation of novel therapeutic targets in colorectal cancer, which is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Europe. The purpose of this study was to determine the most accurate tumour cell injection method to obtain suitable peritoneal metastasis (PM) for subsequent therapeutic treatments. Here, we grafted murine colon carcinoma CT-26 cells expressing luciferase into immunocompetent BALB-c mice by intravenous injection (IV group), subcutaneous injection (SC group), intraperitoneal injection after peritoneal scratching (A group) or intraperitoneal injection alone (IP group). Tumour growth was monitored by bioluminescence during the first 15 days post-grafting. The peritoneal carcinomatosis index was evaluated macroscopically, histology, immunohistochemistry and multiphoton microscopy were performed in peritoneal tumour tissue. Upon implantation, no tumour growth was observed in the IV group, similar to the non-injected group. Both the IP and SC groups showed intermediate growth rates, but the SC group produced only a single subcutaneous nodule. The A group exhibited the highest tumour growth at 15 days post-surgery. Anatomic and histologic analyses corroborated the existence of various tumour nodules, and multiphoton microscopy was used to evaluate tumour fibrosis-infiltrating cells in a non-pathologic peritoneum. In conclusion, limited PM was obtained by IP injection, whereas IP injection after peritoneal scratching led to an extensive PM murine model for evaluating new therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdelkader Taibi
- Visceral Surgery Department, Dupuytren University Hospital, Limoges, France
- University Limoges, CNRS, XLIM, UMR 7252, Limoges, France
- * E-mail:
| | - Jeremie Albouys
- University Limoges, CNRS, XLIM, UMR 7252, Limoges, France
- Gastroenterology Department, Dupuytren University Hospital, Limoges, France
| | - Jeremie Jacques
- University Limoges, CNRS, XLIM, UMR 7252, Limoges, France
- Gastroenterology Department, Dupuytren University Hospital, Limoges, France
| | | | - Catherine Yardin
- University Limoges, CNRS, XLIM, UMR 7252, Limoges, France
- Cytology and Histology Department, Dupuytren University Hospital, Limoges, France
| | - Sylvaine Durand Fontanier
- Visceral Surgery Department, Dupuytren University Hospital, Limoges, France
- University Limoges, CNRS, XLIM, UMR 7252, Limoges, France
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9
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Willers C, Svitina H, Rossouw MJ, Swanepoel RA, Hamman JH, Gouws C. Models used to screen for the treatment of multidrug resistant cancer facilitated by transporter-based efflux. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2019; 145:1949-1976. [PMID: 31292714 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-019-02973-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2019] [Accepted: 07/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Efflux transporters of the adenosine triphosphate-binding cassette (ABC)-superfamily play an important role in the development of multidrug resistance (multidrug resistant; MDR) in cancer. The overexpression of these transporters can directly contribute to the failure of chemotherapeutic drugs. Several in vitro and in vivo models exist to screen for the efficacy of chemotherapeutic drugs against MDR cancer, specifically facilitated by efflux transporters. RESULTS This article reviews a range of efflux transporter-based MDR models used to test the efficacy of compounds to overcome MDR in cancer. These models are classified as either in vitro or in vivo and are further categorised as the most basic, conventional models or more complex and advanced systems. Each model's origin, advantages and limitations, as well as specific efflux transporter-based MDR applications are discussed. Accordingly, future modifications to existing models or new research approaches are suggested to develop prototypes that closely resemble the true nature of multidrug resistant cancer in the human body. CONCLUSIONS It is evident from this review that a combination of both in vitro and in vivo preclinical models can provide a better understanding of cancer itself, than using a single model only. However, there is still a clear lack of progression of these models from basic research to high-throughput clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clarissa Willers
- Pharmacen™, Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa
| | - Hanna Svitina
- Pharmacen™, Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa
| | - Michael J Rossouw
- Pharmacen™, Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa
| | - Roan A Swanepoel
- Pharmacen™, Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa
| | - Josias H Hamman
- Pharmacen™, Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa
| | - Chrisna Gouws
- Pharmacen™, Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, North-West University, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa.
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10
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Sebolt-Leopold JS. Development of Preclinical Models to Understand and Treat Colorectal Cancer. Clin Colon Rectal Surg 2018; 31:199-204. [PMID: 29720906 DOI: 10.1055/s-0037-1602240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The establishment and validation of preclinical models that faithfully recapitulate the pathogenesis and treatment response of human colorectal cancer (CRC) is critical to expedient therapeutic advances in the clinical management of this disease. Integral to the application of precision medicine for patients diagnosed with metastatic CRC is the need to understand the molecular determinants of response for a given therapy. Preclinical models of CRC have proven invaluable in answering many of our basic questions relating to the molecular aberrations that drive colorectal tumor progression. This review will address the comparative merits and limitations of the broad spectrum of in vitro and in vivo models available for study of colorectal tumors and their response to experimental therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith S Sebolt-Leopold
- Department of Radiology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan.,Department of Pharmacology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan
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11
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Ou-Yang GQ, Pan GD, Wu YR, Xu HL. Orthotopic mouse models of colorectal cancer liver metastases. Shijie Huaren Xiaohua Zazhi 2018; 26:512-517. [DOI: 10.11569/wcjd.v26.i8.512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a malignancy with high incidence and mortality, and its high mortality rate is mainly attributed to metastases, with liver metastasis being the main cause of death. Appropriate animal models can provide a basis for studying the metastatic mechanism of colorectal cancer and assessing pre-clinical therapeutic effects. Orthotopic transplantation models that simulate colorectal cancer with liver metastases can better reflect the characteristic of liver metastasis in colorectal cancer. In this article, we review orthotopic transplantation models of liver metastases of colorectal cancer.
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12
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Soleimani S, Shamsi M, Ghazani MA, Modarres HP, Valente KP, Saghafian M, Ashani MM, Akbari M, Sanati-Nezhad A. Translational models of tumor angiogenesis: A nexus of in silico and in vitro models. Biotechnol Adv 2018; 36:880-893. [PMID: 29378235 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2018.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2017] [Revised: 01/10/2018] [Accepted: 01/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Emerging evidence shows that endothelial cells are not only the building blocks of vascular networks that enable oxygen and nutrient delivery throughout a tissue but also serve as a rich resource of angiocrine factors. Endothelial cells play key roles in determining cancer progression and response to anti-cancer drugs. Furthermore, the endothelium-specific deposition of extracellular matrix is a key modulator of the availability of angiocrine factors to both stromal and cancer cells. Considering tumor vascular network as a decisive factor in cancer pathogenesis and treatment response, these networks need to be an inseparable component of cancer models. Both computational and in vitro experimental models have been extensively developed to model tumor-endothelium interactions. While informative, they have been developed in different communities and do not yet represent a comprehensive platform. In this review, we overview the necessity of incorporating vascular networks for both in vitro and in silico cancer models and discuss recent progresses and challenges of in vitro experimental microfluidic cancer vasculature-on-chip systems and their in silico counterparts. We further highlight how these two approaches can merge together with the aim of presenting a predictive combinatorial platform for studying cancer pathogenesis and testing the efficacy of single or multi-drug therapeutics for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shirin Soleimani
- BioMEMS and Bioinspired Microfluidic Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada; Center for BioEngineering Research and Education, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Milad Shamsi
- BioMEMS and Bioinspired Microfluidic Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada; Center for BioEngineering Research and Education, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada; Department of Mechanical Engineering, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan 8415683111, Iran
| | - Mehran Akbarpour Ghazani
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan 8415683111, Iran
| | - Hassan Pezeshgi Modarres
- BioMEMS and Bioinspired Microfluidic Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Karolina Papera Valente
- Laboratory for Innovations in MicroEngineering (LiME), Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8P 5C2, Canada
| | - Mohsen Saghafian
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan 8415683111, Iran
| | - Mehdi Mohammadi Ashani
- BioMEMS and Bioinspired Microfluidic Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Mohsen Akbari
- Laboratory for Innovations in MicroEngineering (LiME), Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8P 5C2, Canada; Division of Medical Sciences, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC V8P 5C2, Canada
| | - Amir Sanati-Nezhad
- BioMEMS and Bioinspired Microfluidic Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada; Center for BioEngineering Research and Education, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada.
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13
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Roper J, Tammela T, Akkad A, Almeqdadi M, Santos SB, Jacks T, Yilmaz ÖH. Colonoscopy-based colorectal cancer modeling in mice with CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing and organoid transplantation. Nat Protoc 2018; 13:217-234. [PMID: 29300388 PMCID: PMC6145089 DOI: 10.1038/nprot.2017.136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Most genetically engineered mouse models (GEMMs) of colorectal cancer are limited by tumor formation in the small intestine, a high tumor burden that limits metastasis, and the need to generate and cross mutant mice. Cell line or organoid transplantation models generally produce tumors in ectopic locations-such as the subcutaneous space, kidney capsule, or cecal wall-that do not reflect the native stromal environment of the colon mucosa. Here, we describe detailed protocols to rapidly and efficiently induce site-directed tumors in the distal colon of mice that are based on colonoscopy-guided mucosal injection. These techniques can be adapted to deliver viral vectors carrying Cre recombinase, CRISPR-Cas9 components, CRISPR-engineered mouse tumor organoids, or human cancer organoids to mice to model the adenoma-carcinoma-metastasis sequence of tumor progression. The colonoscopy injection procedure takes ∼15 min, including preparation. In our experience, anyone with reasonable hand-eye coordination can become proficient with mouse colonoscopy and mucosal injection with a few hours of practice. These approaches are ideal for a wide range of applications, including assessment of gene function in tumorigenesis, examination of tumor-stroma interactions, studies of cancer metastasis, and translational research with patient-derived cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jatin Roper
- The David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Molecular Oncology Research Institute, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Tuomas Tammela
- Cancer Biology and Genetics Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Adam Akkad
- The David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Mohammad Almeqdadi
- The David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sebastian B Santos
- The David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Tyler Jacks
- The David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ömer H Yilmaz
- The David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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14
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Schieffer KM, Poritz LS, Yochum GS, Koltun WA. Development of a total colectomy and ileorectal anastomosis rat model to evaluate colonic metaplasia. J Surg Res 2017; 218:217-225. [PMID: 28985852 DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2017.05.120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2017] [Revised: 05/16/2017] [Accepted: 05/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ulcerative colitis is an idiopathic inflammatory condition of the colon that may require surgical intervention including proctocolectomy and either ileal pouch-anal anastomosis or in the pediatric population, low ileorectal anastomosis (IRA). Often, subsequent physiologic alteration (or colonic metaplasia) occurs in the anastomosed small bowel that includes changes in mucin content, villous blunting, and increased expression of WNT5A, a marker of colonic crypt regeneration. We developed a rat low IRA model to assess and study the development of colonic metaplasia. MATERIALS AND METHODS We subjected male Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 17) to total colectomy and low IRA surgery and evaluated healing periodically by endoscopic evaluation. The ileum upstream of the anastomosis was assessed by hematoxylin and eosin staining, and the mucin content was measured by high iron diamine-Alcian blue staining. Wnt5a transcripts were quantified by reverse transcription and quantitative polymerase chain reaction at the 8-wk study end point. RESULTS Although no gross endoscopic evidence of inflammation was seen throughout the course of the study, colonic metaplasia in the small bowel was detected in 7 out of 10 (70%) rats at the study end point. In rats with colonic metaplasia, enhanced expression of Wnt5a was evident at the study end point compared to levels in the terminal ileum at the time of surgery. CONCLUSIONS Within 4-8 wk, the majority of rats subjected to IRA developed colonic metaplasia defined by villous blunting, changes in mucin content, and increased expression of Wnt5a. This model provides a method to study small bowel colonic metaplasia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen M Schieffer
- Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Department of Surgery, The Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | - Lisa S Poritz
- Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Department of Surgery, The Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | - Gregory S Yochum
- Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Department of Surgery, The Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania; Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, The Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | - Walter A Koltun
- Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Department of Surgery, The Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania.
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15
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Kochall S, Thepkaysone ML, García SA, Betzler AM, Weitz J, Reissfelder C, Schölch S. Isolation of Circulating Tumor Cells in an Orthotopic Mouse Model of Colorectal Cancer. J Vis Exp 2017. [PMID: 28745637 DOI: 10.3791/55357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the advantages of easy applicability and cost-effectiveness, subcutaneous mouse models have severe limitations and do not accurately simulate tumor biology and tumor cell dissemination. Orthotopic mouse models have been introduced to overcome these limitations; however, such models are technically demanding, especially in hollow organs such as the large bowel. In order to produce uniform tumors which reliably grow and metastasize, standardized techniques of tumor cell preparation and injection are critical. We have developed an orthotopic mouse model of colorectal cancer (CRC) which develops highly uniform tumors and can be used for tumor biology studies as well as therapeutic trials. Tumor cells from either primary tumors, 2-dimensional (2D) cell lines or 3-dimensional (3D) organoids are injected into the cecum and, depending on the metastatic potential of the injected tumor cells, form highly metastatic tumors. In addition, CTCs can be found regularly. We here describe the technique of tumor cell preparation from both 2D cell lines and 3D organoids as well as primary tumor tissue, the surgical and injection techniques as well as the isolation of CTCs from the tumor-bearing mice, and present tips for troubleshooting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Kochall
- Department of Gastrointestinal, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Medizinische Fakultät Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden
| | - May-Linn Thepkaysone
- Department of Gastrointestinal, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Medizinische Fakultät Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden
| | - Sebastián A García
- Department of Gastrointestinal, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Medizinische Fakultät Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden
| | - Alexander M Betzler
- Department of Gastrointestinal, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Medizinische Fakultät Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden
| | - Jürgen Weitz
- Department of Gastrointestinal, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Medizinische Fakultät Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK); German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ)
| | - Christoph Reissfelder
- Department of Gastrointestinal, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Medizinische Fakultät Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden
| | - Sebastian Schölch
- Department of Gastrointestinal, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Medizinische Fakultät Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK); German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ);
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16
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Betzler AM, Kochall S, Blickensdörfer L, Garcia SA, Thepkaysone ML, Nanduri LK, Muders MH, Weitz J, Reissfelder C, Schölch S. A Genetically Engineered Mouse Model of Sporadic Colorectal Cancer. J Vis Exp 2017. [PMID: 28715385 DOI: 10.3791/55952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the advantages of easy applicability and cost-effectiveness, colorectal cancer mouse models based on tumor cell injection have severe limitations and do not accurately simulate tumor biology and tumor cell dissemination. Genetically engineered mouse models have been introduced to overcome these limitations; however, such models are technically demanding, especially in large organs such as the colon in which only a single tumor is desired. As a result, an immunocompetent, genetically engineered mouse model of colorectal cancer was developed which develops highly uniform tumors and can be used for tumor biology studies as well as therapeutic trials. Tumor development is initiated by surgical, segmental infection of the distal colon with adeno-cre virus in compound conditionally mutant mice. The tumors can be easily detected and monitored via colonoscopy. We here describe the surgical technique of segmental adeno-cre infection of the colon, the surveillance of the tumor via high-resolution colonoscopy and present the resulting colorectal tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander M Betzler
- Department of Gastrointestinal, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Medizinische Fakultät Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden
| | - Susan Kochall
- Department of Gastrointestinal, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Medizinische Fakultät Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden
| | - Linda Blickensdörfer
- Department of General, Gastrointestinal and Transplant Surgery, University of Heidelberg
| | - Sebastian A Garcia
- Department of Gastrointestinal, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Medizinische Fakultät Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden
| | - May-Linn Thepkaysone
- Department of Gastrointestinal, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Medizinische Fakultät Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden
| | - Lahiri K Nanduri
- Department of Gastrointestinal, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Medizinische Fakultät Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden
| | - Michael H Muders
- Department of Pathology, Medizinische Fakultät Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden
| | - Jürgen Weitz
- Department of Gastrointestinal, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Medizinische Fakultät Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK); German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ)
| | - Christoph Reissfelder
- Department of Gastrointestinal, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Medizinische Fakultät Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden
| | - Sebastian Schölch
- Department of Gastrointestinal, Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, Medizinische Fakultät Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK); German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ);
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17
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Roper J, Tammela T, Cetinbas NM, Akkad A, Roghanian A, Rickelt S, Almeqdadi M, Wu K, Oberli MA, Sánchez-Rivera FJ, Park YK, Liang X, Eng G, Taylor MS, Azimi R, Kedrin D, Neupane R, Beyaz S, Sicinska ET, Suarez Y, Yoo J, Chen L, Zukerberg L, Katajisto P, Deshpande V, Bass AJ, Tsichlis PN, Lees J, Langer R, Hynes RO, Chen J, Bhutkar A, Jacks T, Yilmaz ÖH. In vivo genome editing and organoid transplantation models of colorectal cancer and metastasis. Nat Biotechnol 2017; 35:569-576. [PMID: 28459449 PMCID: PMC5462879 DOI: 10.1038/nbt.3836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 238] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2016] [Accepted: 03/01/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
In vivo interrogation of the function of genes implicated in tumorigenesis is limited by the need to generate and cross germline mutant mice. Here we describe approaches to model colorectal cancer (CRC) and metastasis, which rely on in situ gene editing and orthotopic organoid transplantation in mice without cancer-predisposing mutations. Autochthonous tumor formation is induced by CRISPR-Cas9-based editing of the Apc and Trp53 tumor suppressor genes in colon epithelial cells and by orthotopic transplantation of Apc-edited colon organoids. ApcΔ/Δ;KrasG12D/+;Trp53Δ/Δ (AKP) mouse colon organoids and human CRC organoids engraft in the distal colon and metastasize to the liver. Finally, we apply the orthotopic transplantation model to characterize the clonal dynamics of Lgr5+ stem cells and demonstrate sequential activation of an oncogene in established colon adenomas. These experimental systems enable rapid in vivo characterization of cancer-associated genes and reproduce the entire spectrum of tumor progression and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jatin Roper
- The David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Molecular Oncology Research Institute, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Tuomas Tammela
- The David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Naniye Malli Cetinbas
- The David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Adam Akkad
- The David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ali Roghanian
- The David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
- Cancer Sciences Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Steffen Rickelt
- The David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Mohammad Almeqdadi
- The David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Katherine Wu
- The David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Matthias A Oberli
- The David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Yoona K Park
- The David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Xu Liang
- The David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - George Eng
- The David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Martin S Taylor
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Roxana Azimi
- The David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Dmitriy Kedrin
- The David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Rachit Neupane
- The David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Semir Beyaz
- The David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ewa T Sicinska
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Yvelisse Suarez
- Department of Pathology, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - James Yoo
- Molecular Oncology Research Institute, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Surgery, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lillian Chen
- Department of Surgery, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lawrence Zukerberg
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Pekka Katajisto
- Institute of Biotechnology, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Vikram Deshpande
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Adam J Bass
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Philip N Tsichlis
- Molecular Oncology Research Institute, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jacqueline Lees
- The David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Robert Langer
- The David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Richard O Hynes
- The David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jianzhu Chen
- The David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Arjun Bhutkar
- The David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Tyler Jacks
- The David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ömer H Yilmaz
- The David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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18
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Katsiampoura A, Raghav K, Jiang ZQ, Menter DG, Varkaris A, Morelli MP, Manuel S, Wu J, Sorokin AV, Rizi BS, Bristow C, Tian F, Airhart S, Cheng M, Broom BM, Morris J, Overman MJ, Powis G, Kopetz S. Modeling of Patient-Derived Xenografts in Colorectal Cancer. Mol Cancer Ther 2017; 16:1435-1442. [PMID: 28468778 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-16-0721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2016] [Revised: 03/13/2017] [Accepted: 04/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Developing realistic preclinical models using clinical samples that mirror complex tumor biology and behavior are vital to advancing cancer research. While cell line cultures have been helpful in generating preclinical data, the genetic divergence between these and corresponding primary tumors has limited clinical translation. Conversely, patient-derived xenografts (PDX) in colorectal cancer are highly representative of the genetic and phenotypic heterogeneity in the original tumor. Coupled with high-throughput analyses and bioinformatics, these PDXs represent robust preclinical tools for biomarkers, therapeutic target, and drug discovery. Successful PDX engraftment is hypothesized to be related to a series of anecdotal variables namely, tissue source, cancer stage, tumor grade, acquisition strategy, time to implantation, exposure to prior systemic therapy, and genomic heterogeneity of tumors. Although these factors at large can influence practices and patterns related to xenotransplantation, their relative significance in determining the success of establishing PDXs is uncertain. Accordingly, we systematically examined the predictive ability of these factors in establishing PDXs using 90 colorectal cancer patient specimens that were subcutaneously implanted into immunodeficient mice. Fifty (56%) PDXs were successfully established. Multivariate analyses showed tissue acquisition strategy [surgery 72.0% (95% confidence interval (CI): 58.2-82.6) vs. biopsy 35% (95% CI: 22.1%-50.6%)] to be the key determinant for successful PDX engraftment. These findings contrast with current empiricism in generating PDXs and can serve to simplify or liberalize PDX modeling protocols. Better understanding the relative impact of these factors on efficiency of PDX formation will allow for pervasive integration of these models in care of colorectal cancer patients. Mol Cancer Ther; 16(7); 1435-42. ©2017 AACR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Katsiampoura
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Kanwal Raghav
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Zhi-Qin Jiang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - David G Menter
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Andreas Varkaris
- Department of Genitourinary Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Maria P Morelli
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Shanequa Manuel
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Ji Wu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Alexey V Sorokin
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Bahar Salimian Rizi
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Christopher Bristow
- Department of Applied Cancer Science Institute, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Feng Tian
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Susan Airhart
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | | | - Bradley M Broom
- Department of Bioinformatics & Computational Biology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Jeffrey Morris
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Michael J Overman
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Garth Powis
- Sanford Burnham Prebys Discovery Institute, La Jolla, California
| | - Scott Kopetz
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas.
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19
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West MA, Roman A, Sayan E, Primrose JN, Wedge SR, Underwood TJ, Mirnezami AH. A minimum core outcome dataset for the reporting of preclinical chemotherapeutic drug studies: Lessons learned from multiple discordant methodologies in the setting of colorectal cancer. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2017; 112:80-102. [PMID: 28325268 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2017.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2016] [Revised: 01/11/2017] [Accepted: 02/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
In vivo studies in animal models are critical tools necessary to study the fundamental complexity of carcinogenesis. A constant strive to improve animal models in cancer exists, especially those investigating the use of chemotherapeutic effectiveness. In the present systematic review, colorectal cancer (CRC) is used as an example to highlight and critically evaluate the range of reporting strategies used when investigating chemotherapeutic agents in the preclinical setting. A systematic review examining the methodology and reporting of preclinical chemotherapeutic drug studies using CRC murine models was conducted. A total of 45 studies were included in this systematic review. The literature was found to be highly heterogeneous with various cell lines, animal strains, animal ages and chemotherapeutic compounds/regimens tested, proving difficult to compare outcomes between similar studies or indeed gain any significant insight into which chemotherapeutic regimen caused adverse events. From this analysis we propose a minimum core outcome dataset that could be regarded as a standardised way of reporting results from in vivo experimentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A West
- University Surgery, University of Southampton, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK; Academic Unit of Cancer Sciences, Somers Cancer Research Building, University of Southampton, UK.
| | - A Roman
- University Surgery, University of Southampton, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK; Academic Unit of Cancer Sciences, Somers Cancer Research Building, University of Southampton, UK
| | - E Sayan
- Academic Unit of Cancer Sciences, Somers Cancer Research Building, University of Southampton, UK
| | - J N Primrose
- University Surgery, University of Southampton, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK; Academic Unit of Cancer Sciences, Somers Cancer Research Building, University of Southampton, UK
| | - S R Wedge
- Northern Institute for Cancer Research, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - T J Underwood
- University Surgery, University of Southampton, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK; Academic Unit of Cancer Sciences, Somers Cancer Research Building, University of Southampton, UK
| | - A H Mirnezami
- University Surgery, University of Southampton, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK; Academic Unit of Cancer Sciences, Somers Cancer Research Building, University of Southampton, UK
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20
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Hodgson A, Wier EM, Fu K, Sun X, Wan F. Ultrasound imaging of splenomegaly as a proxy to monitor colon tumor development in Apc(min716/+) mice. Cancer Med 2016; 5:2469-76. [PMID: 27485505 PMCID: PMC5055147 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2016] [Revised: 07/02/2016] [Accepted: 07/04/2016] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Animal models of colon cancer are widely used to understand the molecular mechanisms and pathogenesis of the disease. These animal models require a substantial investment of time and traditionally necessitate the killing of the animal to measure the tumor progression. Several in vivo imaging techniques are being used in both human clinics and preclinical studies, albeit at high cost and requiring particular expertise. Here, we report that the progression of splenomegaly coincides with and positively correlates to colon tumor development in Apcmin716/+ mice expressing a mutant gene encoding an adenomatous polyposis coli protein truncated at amino acid 716. Ultrasound image‐based spleen size measurement precisely mirrors splenomegaly development in vivo in the tumor‐laden Apcmin716/+ mice. Moreover, the spleen dimensions extracted from the ultrasound sonograms are positively correlated with normalized spleen weight and the number and area of colon tumors. Hence, we propose measuring the spleen size in vivo by ultrasound imaging as a novel approach to estimate splenomegaly development and to indirectly monitor colon tumor development in Apcmin716/+ mice. The widespread use of ultrasound machines in the laboratory setting, coupled with the fact that it is a noninvasive method, make it a straightforward and useful tool for monitoring the experimental progress of colon cancer in mice and determining end points without killing animals strictly for diagnostics purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Hodgson
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, 21025
| | - Eric M Wier
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, 21025
| | - Kai Fu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, 21025
| | - Xin Sun
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, 21025
| | - Fengyi Wan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, 21025. .,Department of Oncology and Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, 21287.
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21
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Pfalzer AC, Kamanu FK, Parnell LD, Tai AK, Liu Z, Mason JB, Crott JW. Interactions between the colonic transcriptome, metabolome, and microbiome in mouse models of obesity-induced intestinal cancer. Physiol Genomics 2016; 48:545-53. [DOI: 10.1152/physiolgenomics.00034.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2016] [Accepted: 06/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Obesity is a significant risk factor for colorectal cancer (CRC); however, the relative contribution of high-fat (HF) consumption and excess adiposity remains unclear. It is becoming apparent that obesity perturbs both the intestinal microbiome and metabolome, and each has the potential to induce protumorigenic changes in the epithelial transcriptome. The physiological consequences and the degree to which these different biologic systems interact remain poorly defined. To understand the mechanisms by which obesity drives colonic tumorigenesis, we profiled the colonic epithelial transcriptome of HF-fed and genetically obese (DbDb) mice with a genetic predisposition to intestinal tumorigenesis (Apc1638N); 266 and 584 genes were differentially expressed in the colonic mucosa of HF and DbDb mice, respectively. These genes mapped to pathways involved in immune function, and cellular proliferation and cancer. Furthermore, Akt was central within the networks of interacting genes identified in both gene sets. Regression analyses of coexpressed genes with the abundance of bacterial taxa identified three taxa, previously correlated with tumor burden, to be significantly correlated with a gene module enriched for Akt-related genes. Similarly, regression of coexpressed genes with metabolites found that adenosine, which was negatively associated with inflammatory markers and tumor burden, was also correlated with a gene module enriched with Akt regulators. Our findings provide evidence that HF consumption and excess adiposity result in changes in the colonic transcriptome that, although distinct, both appear to converge on Akt signaling. Such changes could be mediated by alterations in the colonic microbiome and metabolome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna C. Pfalzer
- Cancer Cluster, USDA Jean Mayer Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University, Boston, Massachusetts
- Vitamins and Carcinogenesis Laboratory, USDA Jean Mayer Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University, Boston, Massachusetts
- Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Frederick K. Kamanu
- Nutrition and Genomics Laboratory, USDA Jean Mayer Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Laurence D. Parnell
- Cancer Cluster, USDA Jean Mayer Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University, Boston, Massachusetts
- Agricultural Research Service, USDA, Jean Mayer Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Albert K. Tai
- Genomics Core, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts; and
| | - Zhenhua Liu
- Cancer Cluster, USDA Jean Mayer Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University, Boston, Massachusetts
- School of Public Health and Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts
| | - Joel B. Mason
- Cancer Cluster, USDA Jean Mayer Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University, Boston, Massachusetts
- Vitamins and Carcinogenesis Laboratory, USDA Jean Mayer Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University, Boston, Massachusetts
- Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jimmy W. Crott
- Cancer Cluster, USDA Jean Mayer Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University, Boston, Massachusetts
- Vitamins and Carcinogenesis Laboratory, USDA Jean Mayer Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University, Boston, Massachusetts
- Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Tufts University, Boston, Massachusetts
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22
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Du WJ, Yang XL, Song ZJ, Wang JY, Zhang WJ, He X, Zhang RQ, Zhang CF, Li F, Yu CH, Wang CZ, Yuan CS. Antitumor Activity of Total Flavonoids from Daphne genkwa in Colorectal Cancer. Phytother Res 2015; 30:323-30. [PMID: 26646778 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.5540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2015] [Revised: 11/12/2015] [Accepted: 11/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Daphne genkwa Sieb.et Zucc. is a well-known medicinal plant. This study was designed to investigate the anticancer effects of total flavonoids in D. genkwa (TFDG) in vitro and in vivo. HT-29 and SW-480 human colorectal cancer cells were cultured to investigate the anticancer activity of TFDG. In addition, the Apc(Min/+) mouse model was applied in the in vivo experiment. Results of the cell experiment revealed that TFDG possessed significant inhibitory effects on HT-29 and SW-480 human colorectal cancer cells (both p < 0.01). Furthermore, our in vivo data showed that after treatment with TFDG, there was a significant increase in life span (both p < 0.01) and tumor numbers were reduced in the colon (both p < 0.01), which was supported by the data of tumor distribution, body weight changes and organ index. Our results also indicated that expressions of interleukin (IL)-1α, IL-1β, IL-6, granulocyte colony-stimulating factor and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor in gut tissue were downregulated by treatments of TFDG, and immunity cytokine secretions in the serum were regulated after oral administration of TFDG. Taken together, these findings suggested that TFDG has a potential clinical utility in colorectal cancer therapeutics, and TFDG's action is likely linked to its ability to regulate immune function and inhibit the production of inflammatory cytokines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Juan Du
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Xiao-Lin Yang
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210000, China
| | - Zi-Jing Song
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Jiao-Ying Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Wen-Jun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Xin He
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, 210000, China
| | - Run-Qi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Chun-Feng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.,Tang Center of Herbal Medicine Research and Department of Anesthesia & Critical Care, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Fei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Chun-Hao Yu
- Tang Center of Herbal Medicine Research and Department of Anesthesia & Critical Care, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Chong-Zhi Wang
- Tang Center of Herbal Medicine Research and Department of Anesthesia & Critical Care, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Chun-Su Yuan
- Tang Center of Herbal Medicine Research and Department of Anesthesia & Critical Care, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
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23
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From mice to men: Murine models of colorectal cancer for use in translational research. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2015; 98:94-105. [PMID: 26558688 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2015.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2015] [Revised: 08/28/2015] [Accepted: 10/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common carcinoma worldwide and despite advances in treatment, survival for patients with metastatic disease remains poor. With nearly 50% of patients developing metastases, in vivo investigation is essential to improve outcomes for these patients and numerous murine models of CRC have been developed to allow the study of chemoprevention and chemotherapy, in addition to improving our understanding of the pathogenesis of CRC. Selecting the most appropriate murine model for a specific application will maximize the conversion of potential therapies from the laboratory to clinical practice and requires an understanding of the various models available. This review will provide an overview of the murine models currently used in CRC research, discussing the limitations and merits of each and their most relevant application. It is aimed at the developing researcher, acting as a guide to prompt further reading in planning a specific study.
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24
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Sia D, Moeini A, Labgaa I, Villanueva A. The future of patient-derived tumor xenografts in cancer treatment. Pharmacogenomics 2015; 16:1671-83. [PMID: 26402657 DOI: 10.2217/pgs.15.102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the last decades, major technological advancements have led to a better understanding of the molecular drivers of human malignancies. Nonetheless, this progress only marginally impacted the cancer therapeutic approach, probably due to the limited ability of experimental models to predict efficacy in clinical trials. In an effort to offset this limitation, there has been an increasing interest in the development of patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models where human tumors are xenotransplanted into immunocompromised mice. Considering their high resemblance to human tumors and their stability, PDX models are becoming the preferred translational tools in preclinical studies. Nonetheless, several limitations hamper a wider use of PDX models and tarnish the concept that they might represent the missing piece in the personalized medicine puzzle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Sia
- Barcelona-Clínic Liver Cancer Group, HCC Translational Research Laboratory, Liver Unit, Hepato-biliary Surgery, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Hospital Clínic, CIBERehd, Universitat de Barcelona, C/Rossello 153, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.,Gastrointestinal Surgery & Liver Transplantation Unit, Department of Surgery, National Cancer Institute, via Venezian, 1, Milan, Italy.,Liver Cancer Program, Division of Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1425 Madison Avenue NY 10029, USA
| | - Agrin Moeini
- Barcelona-Clínic Liver Cancer Group, HCC Translational Research Laboratory, Liver Unit, Hepato-biliary Surgery, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Hospital Clínic, CIBERehd, Universitat de Barcelona, C/Rossello 153, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.,Liver Cancer Program, Division of Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1425 Madison Avenue NY 10029, USA
| | - Ismail Labgaa
- Liver Cancer Program, Division of Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1425 Madison Avenue NY 10029, USA
| | - Augusto Villanueva
- Liver Cancer Program, Division of Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine, Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1425 Madison Avenue NY 10029, USA.,Division of Hematology & Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1425 Madison Avenue, NY, USA
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25
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Golovko D, Kedrin D, Yilmaz ÖH, Roper J. Colorectal cancer models for novel drug discovery. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2015; 10:1217-29. [PMID: 26295972 DOI: 10.1517/17460441.2015.1079618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite increased screening rates and advances in targeted therapy, colorectal cancer (CRC) remains the third leading cause of cancer-related mortality. CRC models that recapitulate key features of human disease are essential to the development of novel and effective therapeutics. Classic methods of modeling CRC such as human cell lines and xenograft mice, while useful for many applications, carry significant limitations. Recently developed in vitro and in vivo models overcome some of these deficiencies and thus can be utilized to better model CRC for mechanistic and translational research. AREAS COVERED The authors review established models of in vitro cell culture and describe advances in organoid culture for studying normal and malignant intestine. They also discuss key features of classic xenograft models and describe other approaches for in vivo CRC research, including patient-derived xenograft, carcinogen-induced, orthotopic transplantation and transgenic mouse models. We also describe mouse models of metastatic CRC. EXPERT OPINION No single model is optimal for drug discovery in CRC. Genetically engineered models overcome many limitations of xenograft models. Three-dimensional organoids can be efficiently derived from both normal and malignant tissue for large-scale in vitro and in vivo (transplantation) studies and are thus a significant advance in CRC drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Golovko
- a 1 Tufts Medical Center, Division of Gastroenterology and Molecular Oncology Research Institute , Boston, MA 02111, USA
| | - Dmitriy Kedrin
- b 2 MIT, The David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT, Department of Biology , Cambridge, MA 02139, USA.,c 3 Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Division of Gastroenterology , Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Ömer H Yilmaz
- b 2 MIT, The David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT, Department of Biology , Cambridge, MA 02139, USA.,d 4 Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Department of Pathology , Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Jatin Roper
- a 1 Tufts Medical Center, Division of Gastroenterology and Molecular Oncology Research Institute , Boston, MA 02111, USA .,b 2 MIT, The David H. Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT, Department of Biology , Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
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26
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McIntyre RE, Buczacki SJ, Arends MJ, Adams DJ. Mouse models of colorectal cancer as preclinical models. Bioessays 2015; 37:909-20. [PMID: 26115037 PMCID: PMC4755199 DOI: 10.1002/bies.201500032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2015] [Revised: 06/04/2015] [Accepted: 06/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
In this review, we discuss the application of mouse models to the identification and pre-clinical validation of novel therapeutic targets in colorectal cancer, and to the search for early disease biomarkers. Large-scale genomic, transcriptomic and epigenomic profiling of colorectal carcinomas has led to the identification of many candidate genes whose direct contribution to tumourigenesis is yet to be defined; we discuss the utility of cross-species comparative 'omics-based approaches to this problem. We highlight recent progress in modelling late-stage disease using mice, and discuss ways in which mouse models could better recapitulate the complexity of human cancers to tackle the problem of therapeutic resistance and recurrence after surgical resection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca E. McIntyre
- Experimental Cancer GeneticsWellcome Trust Sanger InstituteHinxtonCambridgeUK
| | | | - Mark J. Arends
- Edinburgh Cancer Research UK CentreUniversity of EdinburghEdinburghUK
| | - David J. Adams
- Experimental Cancer GeneticsWellcome Trust Sanger InstituteHinxtonCambridgeUK
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27
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Terp MG, Ditzel HJ. Application of proteomics in the study of rodent models of cancer. Proteomics Clin Appl 2014; 8:640-52. [DOI: 10.1002/prca.201300084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2013] [Revised: 10/25/2013] [Accepted: 11/27/2013] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Mikkel G. Terp
- Department of Cancer and Inflammation Research; Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Southern Denmark; Odense Denmark
| | - Henrik J. Ditzel
- Department of Cancer and Inflammation Research; Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Southern Denmark; Odense Denmark
- Department of Oncology; Odense University Hospital; Odense Denmark
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28
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Zhou Y, Rideout WM, Bressel A, Yalavarthi S, Zi T, Potz D, Farlow S, Brodeur J, Monti A, Reddipalli S, Xiao Q, Bottega S, Feng B, Chiu MI, Bosenberg M, Heyer J. Spontaneous genomic alterations in a chimeric model of colorectal cancer enable metastasis and guide effective combinatorial therapy. PLoS One 2014; 9:e105886. [PMID: 25162504 PMCID: PMC4146580 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0105886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2014] [Accepted: 07/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Colon cancer is the second most common cause of cancer mortality in the Western world with metastasis commonly present at the time of diagnosis. Screening for propagation and metastatic behavior in a novel chimeric-mouse colon cancer model, driven by mutant p53 and β-Catenin, led to the identification of a unique, invasive adenocarcinoma. Comparison of the genome of this tumor, CB42, with genomes from non-propagating tumors by array CGH and sequencing revealed an amplicon on chromosome five containing CDK6 and CDK14, and a KRAS mutation, respectively. Single agent small molecule inhibition of either CDK6 or MEK, a kinase downstream of KRAS, led to tumor growth inhibition in vivo whereas combination therapy not only led to regression of the subcutaneous tumors, but also near complete inhibition of lung metastasis; thus, genomic analysis of this tumor led to effective, individualized treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinghui Zhou
- Department of Research, AVEO Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - William M. Rideout
- Department of Research, AVEO Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Angela Bressel
- Department of Research, AVEO Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Sireesha Yalavarthi
- Department of Research, AVEO Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Tong Zi
- Department of Research, AVEO Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Darren Potz
- Department of Research, AVEO Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Samuel Farlow
- Department of Research, AVEO Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Joelle Brodeur
- Department of Research, AVEO Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Anthony Monti
- Department of Research, AVEO Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Shailaja Reddipalli
- Department of Research, AVEO Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Qiurong Xiao
- Department of Research, AVEO Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Steve Bottega
- Department of Research, AVEO Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Bin Feng
- Department of Research, AVEO Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - M. Isabel Chiu
- Department of Research, AVEO Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Marcus Bosenberg
- Department of Dermatology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Joerg Heyer
- Department of Research, AVEO Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
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29
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Roper J, Martin ES, Hung KE. Overview of genetically engineered mouse models of colorectal carcinoma to enable translational biology and drug development. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 65:14.29.1-10. [PMID: 24934606 DOI: 10.1002/0471141755.ph1429s65] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Preclinical models for colorectal cancer (CRC) are critical for translational biology and drug development studies to characterize and treat this condition. Mouse models of human cancer are particularly popular because of their relatively low cost, short life span, and ease of use. Genetically engineered mouse models (GEMMs) of CRC are engineered from germline or somatic modification of critical tumor suppressor genes and/or oncogenes that drive mutations in human disease. Detailed in this overview are the salient features of several useful colorectal cancer GEMMs and their value as tools for translational biology and preclinical drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jatin Roper
- Division of Gastroenterology and Molecular Oncology Research Institute, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts
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30
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Belmont PJ, Budinska E, Jiang P, Sinnamon MJ, Coffee E, Roper J, Xie T, Rejto PA, Derkits S, Sansom OJ, Delorenzi M, Tejpar S, Hung KE, Martin ES. Cross-species analysis of genetically engineered mouse models of MAPK-driven colorectal cancer identifies hallmarks of the human disease. Dis Model Mech 2014; 7:613-23. [PMID: 24742783 PMCID: PMC4036469 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.013904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2013] [Accepted: 04/15/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Effective treatment options for advanced colorectal cancer (CRC) are limited, survival rates are poor and this disease continues to be a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Despite being a highly heterogeneous disease, a large subset of individuals with sporadic CRC typically harbor relatively few established 'driver' lesions. Here, we describe a collection of genetically engineered mouse models (GEMMs) of sporadic CRC that combine lesions frequently altered in human patients, including well-characterized tumor suppressors and activators of MAPK signaling. Primary tumors from these models were profiled, and individual GEMM tumors segregated into groups based on their genotypes. Unique allelic and genotypic expression signatures were generated from these GEMMs and applied to clinically annotated human CRC patient samples. We provide evidence that a Kras signature derived from these GEMMs is capable of distinguishing human tumors harboring KRAS mutation, and tracks with poor prognosis in two independent human patient cohorts. Furthermore, the analysis of a panel of human CRC cell lines suggests that high expression of the GEMM Kras signature correlates with sensitivity to targeted pathway inhibitors. Together, these findings implicate GEMMs as powerful preclinical tools with the capacity to recapitulate relevant human disease biology, and support the use of genetic signatures generated in these models to facilitate future drug discovery and validation efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter J Belmont
- Oncology Research Unit, Pfizer Global Research and Development, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Eva Budinska
- Institute of Biostatistics and Analyses, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic. Bioinformatics Core Facility, SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Ping Jiang
- Oncology Research Unit, Pfizer Global Research and Development, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Mark J Sinnamon
- Division of Gastroenterology, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA 02111, USA
| | - Erin Coffee
- Division of Gastroenterology, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA 02111, USA
| | - Jatin Roper
- Division of Gastroenterology, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA 02111, USA
| | - Tao Xie
- Oncology Research Unit, Pfizer Global Research and Development, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Paul A Rejto
- Oncology Research Unit, Pfizer Global Research and Development, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Sahra Derkits
- The Beatson Institute for Cancer Research, Garscube Estate, Glasgow, G61 1BD, UK
| | - Owen J Sansom
- The Beatson Institute for Cancer Research, Garscube Estate, Glasgow, G61 1BD, UK
| | - Mauro Delorenzi
- Bioinformatics Core Facility, SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Sabine Tejpar
- University Hospital Gasthuisberg, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Kenneth E Hung
- Pfizer Biotherapeutics Clinical Research, Cambridge, 02140 MA, USA
| | - Eric S Martin
- Oncology Research Unit, Pfizer Global Research and Development, San Diego, CA 92121, USA.
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31
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Byun AJ, Hung KE, Fleet JC, Bronson RT, Mason JB, Garcia PE, Crott JW. Colon-specific tumorigenesis in mice driven by Cre-mediated inactivation of Apc and activation of mutant Kras. Cancer Lett 2014; 347:191-5. [PMID: 24632531 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2014.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2013] [Revised: 03/04/2014] [Accepted: 03/04/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Several genetically engineered mouse (GEM) models of colorectal cancer have been developed and are a mainstay in our efforts to identify means of preventing and treating this disease. Many of these models involve a germline disruption of the adenomatous polyposis coli (Apc) tumor suppressor gene and share the limitation that the great preponderance of tumors appear in the small rather than large intestine. In recent years efforts have been made to increase the similarity of these models to human sporadic colorectal cancer by disrupting Apc in a tissue-specific fashion using the Cre-Lox system so that the genetic aberrations are confined to the colonic epithelium. These models have shown great promise but reproducible and high penetrance colon-specific tumorigenesis has not yet been achieved without invasive techniques to introduce the Cre enzyme. We therefore sought to create a new model with high penetrance colon-specific tumorigenesis but without the need for exogenous Cre administration. We utilized existing mice possessing a conditional knock out for the Apc gene and a latent activated Kras allele and crossed them with mice expressing Cre recombinase solely in the large intestine. Using this approach we generated mice that developed 1-9 colonic adenomas per mouse (average 4.3) but without any tumors in the small intestine or cecum. No invasive tumors were observed. Despite the apparent lack of invasion, the geographical correctness, complete penetrance and intermediate tumor burden make this model a promising addition to our toolkit for the study of colorectal cancer treatment and prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander J Byun
- Vitamins and Carcinogenesis Laboratory, Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kenneth E Hung
- Clinical Research and Development, Biotherapeutics, Pfizer, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - James C Fleet
- Department of Nutrition Science, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | | | - Joel B Mason
- Vitamins and Carcinogenesis Laboratory, Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Paloma E Garcia
- Vitamins and Carcinogenesis Laboratory, Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jimmy W Crott
- Vitamins and Carcinogenesis Laboratory, Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University, Boston, MA, USA.
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Jiang B, Mason J, Jewett A, Qian J, Ding Y, Cho WCS, Zhang X, Man YG. Cell budding from normal appearing epithelia: a predictor of colorectal cancer metastasis? Int J Biol Sci 2013; 9:119-33. [PMID: 23355797 PMCID: PMC3555151 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.5441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2012] [Accepted: 12/21/2012] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Colorectal carcinogenesis is believed to be a multi-stage process that originates with a localized adenoma, which linearly progresses to an intra-mucosal carcinoma, to an invasive lesion, and finally to metastatic cancer. This progression model is supported by tissue culture and animal model studies, but it is difficult to reconcile with several well-established observations, principally among these are that up to 25% of early stage (Stage I/II), node-negative colorectal cancer (CRC) develop distant metastasis, and that circulating CRC cells are undetectable in peripheral blood samples of up to 50% of patients with confirmed metastasis, but more than 30% of patients with no detectable metastasis exhibit such cells. The mechanism responsible for this diverse behavior is unknown, and there are no effective means to identify patients with pending, or who are at high risk for, developing metastatic CRC. Novel findings: Our previous studies of human breast and prostate cancer have shown that cancer invasion arises from the convergence of a tissue injury, the innate immune response to that injury, and the presence of tumor stem cells within tumor capsules at the site of the injury. Focal degeneration of a capsule due to age or disease attracts lymphocyte infiltration that degrades the degenerating capsules resulting in the formation of a focal disruption in the capsule, which selectively favors proliferating or “budding” of the underlying tumor stem cells. Our recent studies suggest that lymphocyte infiltration also triggers metastasis by disrupting the intercellular junctions and surface adhesion molecules within the proliferating cell buds causing their dissociation. Then, lymphocytes and tumor cells are conjoined through membrane fusion to form tumor-lymphocyte chimeras (TLCs) that allows the tumor stem cell to avail itself of the lymphocyte's natural ability to migrate and breach cell barriers in order to intravasate and to travel to distant organs. Our most recent studies of human CRC have detected nearly identical focal capsule disruptions, lymphocyte infiltration, budding cells, and the formation of TLCs. Our studies have further shown that age- and type-matched node-positive and -negative CRC have a significantly different morphological and immunohistochemical profile and that the majority of lymphatic ducts with disseminated cells are located within the mucosa adjacent to morphologically normal appearing epithelial structures that express a stem cell-related marker. New hypothesis: Based on these findings and the growth patterns of budding cells revealed by double immunohistochemistry, we further hypothesize that metastatic spread is an early event of carcinogenesis and that budding cells overlying focal capsule disruptions represent invasion- and metastasis-initiating cells that follow one of four pathways to progress: (1) to undergo extensive in situ proliferation leading to the formation of tumor nests that subsequently invade the submucosa, (2) to migrate with associated lymphocytes functioning as “seeds” to grow in new sites, (3) to migrate and intravasate into pre-existing vascular structures by forming TLCs, or (4) to intravasate into vascular structures that are generated by the budding cells themselves. We also propose that only node-positive cases harbor stem cells with the potential for multi-lineage differentiation and unique surface markers that permit intravasation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Jiang
- National Medical Centre of Colorectal Disease, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China.
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