1
|
Lou E, Vérollet C, Winkler F, Zurzolo C, Valdebenito-Silva S, Eugenin E. Tunneling nanotubes and tumor microtubes-Emerging data on their roles in intercellular communication and pathophysiology: Summary of an International FASEB Catalyst Conference October 2023. FASEB J 2024; 38:e23514. [PMID: 38466151 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202302551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
In the past decade, there has been a steady rise in interest in studying novel cellular extensions and their potential roles in facilitating human diseases, including neurologic diseases, viral infectious diseases, cancer, and others. One of the exciting new aspects of this field is improved characterization and understanding of the functions and potential mechanisms of tunneling nanotubes (TNTs), which are actin-based filamentous protrusions that are structurally distinct from filopodia. TNTs form and connect cells at long distance and serve as direct conduits for intercellular communication in a wide range of cell types in vitro and in vivo. More researchers are entering this field and investigating the role of TNTs in mediating cancer cell invasion and drug resistance, cellular transfer of proteins, RNA or organelles, and intercellular spread of infectious agents, such as viruses, bacteria, and prions. Even further, the elucidation of highly functional membrane tubes called "tumor microtubes" (TMs) in incurable gliomas has further paved a new path for understanding how and why the tumor type is highly invasive at the cellular level and also resistant to standard therapies. Due to the wide-ranging and rapidly growing applicability of TNTs and TMs in pathophysiology across the spectrum of biology, it has become vital to bring researchers in the field together to discuss advances and the future of research in this important niche of protrusion biology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emil Lou
- Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Transplantation, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Christel Vérollet
- Institut de Pharmacologie et Biologie Structurale (IPBS), Université de Toulouse, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Université Toulouse III - Paul Sabatier (UPS), Toulouse, France
- International Research Laboratory (IRP) CNRS "IM-TB/HIV", Toulouse, France
- International Research Laboratory (IRP) CNRS "IM-TB/HIV", Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Frank Winkler
- Neurology Clinic and National Center for Tumor Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Neurooncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Chiara Zurzolo
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, CNRS UMR 3691, Membrane Traffic and Pathogenesis, Paris, France
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Eliseo Eugenin
- Department of Neurobiology, The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB), Galveston, Texas, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Sarkari A, Korenfeld S, Deniz K, Ladner K, Wong P, Padmanabhan S, Vogel RI, Sherer LA, Courtemanche N, Steer C, Wainer-Katsir K, Lou E. Treatment with tumor-treating fields (TTFields) suppresses intercellular tunneling nanotube formation in vitro and upregulates immuno-oncologic biomarkers in vivo in malignant mesothelioma. eLife 2023; 12:e85383. [PMID: 37955637 PMCID: PMC10642963 DOI: 10.7554/elife.85383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Disruption of intercellular communication within tumors is emerging as a novel potential strategy for cancer-directed therapy. Tumor-Treating Fields (TTFields) therapy is a treatment modality that has itself emerged over the past decade in active clinical use for patients with glioblastoma and malignant mesothelioma, based on the principle of using low-intensity alternating electric fields to disrupt microtubules in cancer cells undergoing mitosis. There is a need to identify other cellular and molecular effects of this treatment approach that could explain reported increased overall survival when TTFields are added to standard systemic agents. Tunneling nanotube (TNTs) are cell-contact-dependent filamentous-actin-based cellular protrusions that can connect two or more cells at long-range. They are upregulated in cancer, facilitating cell growth, differentiation, and in the case of invasive cancer phenotypes, a more chemoresistant phenotype. To determine whether TNTs present a potential therapeutic target for TTFields, we applied TTFields to malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) cells forming TNTs in vitro. TTFields at 1.0 V/cm significantly suppressed TNT formation in biphasic subtype MPM, but not sarcomatoid MPM, independent of effects on cell number. TTFields did not significantly affect function of TNTs assessed by measuring intercellular transport of mitochondrial cargo via intact TNTs. We further leveraged a spatial transcriptomic approach to characterize TTFields-induced changes to molecular profiles in vivo using an animal model of MPM. We discovered TTFields induced upregulation of immuno-oncologic biomarkers with simultaneous downregulation of pathways associated with cell hyperproliferation, invasion, and other critical regulators of oncogenic growth. Several molecular classes and pathways coincide with markers that we and others have found to be differentially expressed in cancer cell TNTs, including MPM specifically. We visualized short TNTs in the dense stromatous tumor material selected as regions of interest for spatial genomic assessment. Superimposing these regions of interest from spatial genomics over the plane of TNT clusters imaged in intact tissue is a new method that we designate Spatial Profiling of Tunneling nanoTubes (SPOTT). In sum, these results position TNTs as potential therapeutic targets for TTFields-directed cancer treatment strategies. We also identified the ability of TTFields to remodel the tumor microenvironment landscape at the molecular level, thereby presenting a potential novel strategy for converting tumors at the cellular level from 'cold' to 'hot' for potential response to immunotherapeutic drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Akshat Sarkari
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Oncology and Transplantation, University of MinnesotaMinneapolisUnited States
| | - Sophie Korenfeld
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Oncology and Transplantation, University of MinnesotaMinneapolisUnited States
| | - Karina Deniz
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Oncology and Transplantation, University of MinnesotaMinneapolisUnited States
| | - Katherine Ladner
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Oncology and Transplantation, University of MinnesotaMinneapolisUnited States
| | - Phillip Wong
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Oncology and Transplantation, University of MinnesotaMinneapolisUnited States
| | - Sanyukta Padmanabhan
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Oncology and Transplantation, University of MinnesotaMinneapolisUnited States
| | - Rachel I Vogel
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of MinnesotaMinneapolisUnited States
| | - Laura A Sherer
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, University of MinnesotaMinneapolisUnited States
| | - Naomi Courtemanche
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, University of MinnesotaMinneapolisUnited States
| | - Clifford Steer
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, University of MinnesotaMinneapolisUnited States
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, University of MinnesotaMinneapolisUnited States
| | | | - Emil Lou
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Oncology and Transplantation, University of MinnesotaMinneapolisUnited States
- Graduate Faculty, Integrative Biology and Physiology Department, University of MinnesotaMinneapolisUnited States
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Melwani PK, Pandey BN. Tunneling nanotubes: The intercellular conduits contributing to cancer pathogenesis and its therapy. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2023; 1878:189028. [PMID: 37993000 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2023.189028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) are intercellular conduits which meet the communication needs of non-adjacent cells situated in the same tissue but at distances up to a few hundred microns. TNTs are unique type of membrane protrusion which contain F-actin and freely hover over substratum in the extracellular space to connect the distant cells. TNTs, known to form through actin remodeling mechanisms, are intercellular bridges that connect cytoplasm of two cells, and facilitate the transfer of organelles, molecules, and pathogens among the cells. In tumor microenvironment, TNTs act as communication channel among cancer, normal, and immune cells to facilitate the transfer of calcium waves, mitochondria, lysosomes, and proteins, which in turn contribute to the survival, metastasis, and chemo-resistance in cancer cells. Recently, TNTs were shown to mediate the transfer of nanoparticles, drugs, and viruses between cells, suggesting that TNTs could be exploited as a potential route for delivery of anti-cancer agents and oncolytic viruses to the target cells. The present review discusses the emerging concepts and role of TNTs in the context of chemo- and radio-resistance with implications in the cancer therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pooja Kamal Melwani
- Radiation Biology & Health Sciences Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai 400085, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, Anushakti Nagar, Mumbai 400094, India
| | - Badri Narain Pandey
- Radiation Biology & Health Sciences Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai 400085, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, Anushakti Nagar, Mumbai 400094, India.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Valdebenito S, Ono A, Rong L, Eugenin EA. The role of tunneling nanotubes during early stages of HIV infection and reactivation: implications in HIV cure. NEUROIMMUNE PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTICS 2023; 2:169-186. [PMID: 37476291 PMCID: PMC10355284 DOI: 10.1515/nipt-2022-0015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs), also called cytonemes or tumor microtubes, correspond to cellular processes that enable long-range communication. TNTs are plasma membrane extensions that form tubular processes that connect the cytoplasm of two or more cells. TNTs are mostly expressed during the early stages of development and poorly expressed in adulthood. However, in disease conditions such as stroke, cancer, and viral infections such as HIV, TNTs proliferate, but their role is poorly understood. TNTs function has been associated with signaling coordination, organelle sharing, and the transfer of infectious agents such as HIV. Here, we describe the critical role and function of TNTs during HIV infection and reactivation, as well as the use of TNTs for cure strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvana Valdebenito
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB), Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Akira Ono
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Libin Rong
- Department of Mathematics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Eliseo A. Eugenin
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB), Galveston, TX, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Jahnke R, Matthiesen S, Zaeck LM, Finke S, Knittler MR. Chlamydia trachomatis Cell-to-Cell Spread through Tunneling Nanotubes. Microbiol Spectr 2022; 10:e0281722. [PMID: 36219107 PMCID: PMC9769577 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.02817-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) are transient cellular connections that consist of dynamic membrane protrusions. They play an important role in cell-to-cell communication and mediate the intercellular exchanges of molecules and organelles. TNTs can form between different cell types and may contribute to the spread of pathogens by serving as cytoplasmic corridors. We demonstrate that Chlamydia (C.) trachomatis-infected human embryonic kidney (HEK) 293 cells and other cells form TNT-like structures through which reticulate bodies (RBs) pass into uninfected cells. Observed TNTs have a life span of 1 to 5 h and contain microtubules, which are essential for chlamydial transfer. They can bridge distances of up to 50 μm between connecting neighboring cells. Consistent with the biological role for TNTs, we show that C. trachomatis spread also occurs under conditions in which the extracellular route of chlamydial entry into host cells is blocked. Based on our findings, we propose that TNTs play a critical role in the direct, cell-to-cell transmission of chlamydia. IMPORTANCE Intracellular bacterial pathogens often undergo a life cycle in which they parasitize infected host cells in membranous vacuoles. Two pathways have been described by which chlamydia can exit infected host cells: lytic cell destruction or exit via extrusion formation. Whether direct, cell-to-cell contact may also play a role in the spread of infection is unknown. Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) interconnect the cytoplasm of adjacent cells to mediate efficient communication and the exchange of material between them. We used Chlamydia trachomatis and immortalized cells to analyze whether TNTs mediate bacterial transmission from an infected donor to uninfected acceptor cells. We show that chlamydia-infected cells build TNTs through which the intracellular reticulate bodies (RBs) of the chlamydia can pass into uninfected neighboring cells. Our study contributes to the understanding of the function of TNTs in the cell-to-cell transmission of intracellular pathogens and provides new insights into the strategies by which chlamydia spreads among multicellular tissues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rico Jahnke
- Institute of Immunology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute of Animal Health, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Svea Matthiesen
- Institute of Immunology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute of Animal Health, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Luca M. Zaeck
- Institute of Molecular Virology and Cell Biology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute of Animal Health, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Stefan Finke
- Institute of Molecular Virology and Cell Biology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute of Animal Health, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Michael R. Knittler
- Institute of Immunology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute of Animal Health, Greifswald, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Fu J, Mao Y, Han J, Zhang P, Tan Y, Hu J, Seeberger PH, Yin J. A nitric oxide and hydrogen sulfide dual-donating nanosystem for highly synergistic gas-radiotherapy against hepatocellular carcinoma. BIOMATERIALS ADVANCES 2022; 144:213209. [PMID: 36473350 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioadv.2022.213209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
A drug delivery system (DDS) based on gold-capped mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSN) is fabricated for loading NOSH-aspirin, a nitric oxide (NO) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) dual-donating cytotoxic molecule. The liver targeting and tumor microenvironment responsive properties of the nanosystem enable, for the first time, the concurrent delivery of NO and H2S from a DDS into hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells. Combined gas-radiotherapy (GT-RT) from drug-loaded DDS (NOSH@MSN-Au-Gal) and X-ray irradiation shows highly synergistic anti-cancer activity against both normoxic and hypoxic HCC cells. Further studies revealed that the combined GT-RT not only retains the well-known anticancer mechanism of NO, H2S, and X-ray individually, but also alleviates HCC hypoxia via NO- and H2S- involved unique pathways. In mice, the GT-RT greatly slows the growth of both subcutaneous and orthotopic HCC tumors and shows high biocompatibility. The current work is expected to promote the clinical application of combined GT-RT as an effective cancer treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Junjie Fu
- Key Laboratory of Carbohydrate Chemistry and Biotechnology, Ministry of Education, School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, PR China
| | - Yong Mao
- Department of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214062, PR China
| | - Jing Han
- School of Chemistry & Materials Science, Jiangsu Normal University, Xuzhou 221116, PR China
| | - Pengfei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Carbohydrate Chemistry and Biotechnology, Ministry of Education, School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, PR China; Department of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214062, PR China
| | - Yunying Tan
- Key Laboratory of Carbohydrate Chemistry and Biotechnology, Ministry of Education, School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, PR China
| | - Jing Hu
- Wuxi School of Medicine, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, PR China
| | - Peter H Seeberger
- Biomolecular Systems Department, Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, Am Mühlenberg 1, Potsdam 14476, Germany
| | - Jian Yin
- Key Laboratory of Carbohydrate Chemistry and Biotechnology, Ministry of Education, School of Biotechnology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
TNTdetect.AI: A Deep Learning Model for Automated Detection and Counting of Tunneling Nanotubes in Microscopy Images. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14194958. [PMID: 36230881 PMCID: PMC9562025 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14194958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Microscopy is central to many areas of biomedical science research, including cancer research, and is critical for understanding basic pathophysiology, mechanisms of action, and treatment response. However, analysis of the numerous images generated from microscopy readouts is usually performed manually, a process that is tedious and time-consuming. Moreover, manual analysis of microscopy images may limit both accuracy and reproducibility. Here, we used an artificial intelligence approach to analyze tunnelling nanotubes (TNTs), a feature of cancer cells that may contribute to their aggressiveness, but which are hard to identify and count. Our approach labeled and detected TNTs and cancer cells from microscopy images and generated TNT-to-cell ratios comparable to those of human experts. Continued refinement of this process will provide a new approach to the analysis of TNTs. Additionally, this approach has the potential to enhance drug screens intended to assess therapeutic efficacy of experimental agents and to reproducibly assess TNTs as a potential biomarker of response to cancer therapy. Abstract Background: Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) are cellular structures connecting cell membranes and mediating intercellular communication. TNTs are manually identified and counted by a trained investigator; however, this process is time-intensive. We therefore sought to develop an automated approach for quantitative analysis of TNTs. Methods: We used a convolutional neural network (U-Net) deep learning model to segment phase contrast microscopy images of both cancer and non-cancer cells. Our method was composed of preprocessing and model development. We developed a new preprocessing method to label TNTs on a pixel-wise basis. Two sequential models were employed to detect TNTs. First, we identified the regions of images with TNTs by implementing a classification algorithm. Second, we fed parts of the image classified as TNT-containing into a modified U-Net model to estimate TNTs on a pixel-wise basis. Results: The algorithm detected 49.9% of human expert-identified TNTs, counted TNTs, and calculated the number of TNTs per cell, or TNT-to-cell ratio (TCR); it detected TNTs that were not originally detected by the experts. The model had 0.41 precision, 0.26 recall, and 0.32 f-1 score on a test dataset. The predicted and true TCRs were not significantly different across the training and test datasets (p = 0.78). Conclusions: Our automated approach labeled and detected TNTs and cells imaged in culture, resulting in comparable TCRs to those determined by human experts. Future studies will aim to improve on the accuracy, precision, and recall of the algorithm.
Collapse
|
8
|
Specialized Intercellular Communications via Tunnelling Nanotubes in Acute and Chronic Leukemia. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14030659. [PMID: 35158927 PMCID: PMC8833474 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14030659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) are cytoplasmic channels which regulate the contacts between cells and allow the transfer of several elements, including ions, mitochondria, microvesicles, exosomes, lysosomes, proteins, and microRNAs. Through this transport, TNTs are implicated in different physiological and pathological phenomena, such as immune response, cell proliferation and differentiation, embryogenesis, programmed cell death, and angiogenesis. TNTs can promote cancer progression, transferring substances capable of altering apoptotic dynamics, modifying the metabolism and energy balance, inducing changes in immunosurveillance, or affecting the response to chemotherapy. In this review, we evaluated their influence on hematologic malignancies’ progression and resistance to therapies, focusing on acute and chronic myeloid and acute lymphoid leukemia. Abstract Effectual cell-to-cell communication is essential to the development and differentiation of organisms, the preservation of tissue tasks, and the synchronization of their different physiological actions, but also to the proliferation and metastasis of tumor cells. Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) are membrane-enclosed tubular connections between cells that carry a multiplicity of cellular loads, such as exosomes, non-coding RNAs, mitochondria, and proteins, and they have been identified as the main participants in healthy and tumoral cell communication. TNTs have been described in numerous tumors in in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo models favoring the onset and progression of tumors. Tumor cells utilize TNT-like membranous channels to transfer information between themselves or with the tumoral milieu. As a result, tumor cells attain novel capabilities, such as the increased capacity of metastasis, metabolic plasticity, angiogenic aptitude, and chemoresistance, promoting tumor severity. Here, we review the morphological and operational characteristics of TNTs and their influence on hematologic malignancies’ progression and resistance to therapies, focusing on acute and chronic myeloid and acute lymphoid leukemia. Finally, we examine the prospects and challenges for TNTs as a therapeutic approach for hematologic diseases by examining the development of efficient and safe drugs targeting TNTs.
Collapse
|
9
|
Secretome and Tunneling Nanotubes: A Multilevel Network for Long Range Intercellular Communication between Endothelial Cells and Distant Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22157971. [PMID: 34360735 PMCID: PMC8347715 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22157971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Revised: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
As a cellular interface between the blood and tissues, the endothelial cell (EC) monolayer is involved in the control of key functions including vascular tone, permeability and homeostasis, leucocyte trafficking and hemostasis. EC regulatory functions require long-distance communications between ECs, circulating hematopoietic cells and other vascular cells for efficient adjusting thrombosis, angiogenesis, inflammation, infection and immunity. This intercellular crosstalk operates through the extracellular space and is orchestrated in part by the secretory pathway and the exocytosis of Weibel Palade Bodies (WPBs), secretory granules and extracellular vesicles (EVs). WPBs and secretory granules allow both immediate release and regulated exocytosis of messengers such as cytokines, chemokines, extracellular membrane proteins, coagulation or growth factors. The ectodomain shedding of transmembrane protein further provide the release of both receptor and ligands with key regulatory activities on target cells. Thin tubular membranous channels termed tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) may also connect EC with distant cells. EVs, in particular exosomes, and TNTs may contain and transfer different biomolecules (e.g., signaling mediators, proteins, lipids, and microRNAs) or pathogens and have emerged as a major triggers of horizontal intercellular transfer of information.
Collapse
|
10
|
Cordero Cervantes D, Zurzolo C. Peering into tunneling nanotubes-The path forward. EMBO J 2021; 40:e105789. [PMID: 33646572 PMCID: PMC8047439 DOI: 10.15252/embj.2020105789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The identification of Tunneling Nanotubes (TNTs) and TNT-like structures signified a critical turning point in the field of cell-cell communication. With hypothesized roles in development and disease progression, TNTs' ability to transport biological cargo between distant cells has elevated these structures to a unique and privileged position among other mechanisms of intercellular communication. However, the field faces numerous challenges-some of the most pressing issues being the demonstration of TNTs in vivo and understanding how they form and function. Another stumbling block is represented by the vast disparity in structures classified as TNTs. In order to address this ambiguity, we propose a clear nomenclature and provide a comprehensive overview of the existing knowledge concerning TNTs. We also discuss their structure, formation-related pathways, biological function, as well as their proposed role in disease. Furthermore, we pinpoint gaps and dichotomies found across the field and highlight unexplored research avenues. Lastly, we review the methods employed to date and suggest the application of new technologies to better understand these elusive biological structures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Chiara Zurzolo
- Institut PasteurMembrane Traffic and PathogenesisParisFrance
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Wang S, Li Y, Zhao Y, Lin F, Qu J, Liu L. Investigating tunneling nanotubes in ovarian cancer based on two-photon excitation FLIM-FRET. BIOMEDICAL OPTICS EXPRESS 2021; 12:1962-1973. [PMID: 33996210 PMCID: PMC8086450 DOI: 10.1364/boe.418778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Precise and efficient cell-to-cell communication is critical to the growth and differentiation of organisms, the formation of various organism, the maintenance of tissue function and the coordination of their various physiological activities, especially to the growth and invasion of cancer cells. Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) were discovered as a new method of cell-to-cell communication in many cell lines. In this paper, we investigated TNTs-like structures in ovarian cancer cells and proved their elements by fluorescent staining, which showed that TNTs are comprised of natural lipid bilayers with microtubules as the skeleton that can transmit ions and organelles between adjacent cells. We then used fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) based on two-photon excitation fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) (TP-FLIM-FRET) to detect material transport in TNTs. The experimental results showed that the number of TNTs have an impact on the drug treatment of cancer cells, which provided a new perspective for TNTs involvement in cancer treatment. Our results also showed that TP-FLIM-FRET would potentially become a new optical method for TNTs study.
Collapse
|
12
|
Zhu C, Shi Y, You J. Immune Cell Connection by Tunneling Nanotubes: The Impact of Intercellular Cross-Talk on the Immune Response and Its Therapeutic Applications. Mol Pharm 2021; 18:772-786. [PMID: 33529022 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.0c01248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Direct intercellular communication is an important prerequisite for the development of multicellular organisms, the regeneration of tissue, and the maintenance of various physiological activities. Tunnel nanotubes (TNTs), which have diameters of approximately 50-1500 nm and lengths of up to several cell diameters, can connect cells over long distances and have emerged as one of the most important recently discovered types of efficient communication between cells. Moreover, TNTs can also directly transfer organelles, vehicles, proteins, genetic material, ions, and small molecules from one cell to adjacent and even distant cells. However, the mechanism of intercellular communication between various immune cells within the complex immune system has not been fully elucidated. Studies in the past decades have confirmed the existence of TNTs in many types of cells, especially in various kinds of immune cells. TNTs display different structural and functional characteristics between and within different immunocytes, playing a major role in the transmission of signals across various kinds of immune cells. In this review, we introduce the discovery and structure of TNTs, as well as their different functional properties within different immune cells. We also discuss the roles of TNTs in potentiating the immune response and their potential therapeutic applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chunqi Zhu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, People's Republic of China
| | - Yingying Shi
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, People's Republic of China
| | - Jian You
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, 866 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Cancer Immunotherapy Strategies: Basic Principles. Bioanalysis 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-78338-9_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
|
14
|
Lou E. A Ticket to Ride: The Implications of Direct Intercellular Communication via Tunneling Nanotubes in Peritoneal and Other Invasive Malignancies. Front Oncol 2020; 10:559548. [PMID: 33324545 PMCID: PMC7727447 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.559548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
It is well established that the role of the tumor microenvironment (TME) in cancer progression and therapeutic resistance is crucial, but many of the underlying mechanisms are still being elucidated. Even with better understanding of molecular oncology and identification of genomic drivers of these processes, there has been a relative lag in identifying and appreciating the cellular drivers of both invasion and resistance. Intercellular communication is a vital process that unifies and synchronizes the diverse components of the tumoral infrastructure. Elucidation of the role of extracellular vesicles (EVs) over the past decade has cast a brighter light on this field. And yet even with this advance, in addition to diffusible soluble factor-mediated paracrine and endocrine cell communication as well as EVs, additional niches of intratumoral communication are filled by other modes of intercellular transfer. Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs), tumor microtubes (TMs), and other similar intercellular channels are long filamentous actin-based cellular conduits (in most epithelial cancer cell types, ~15-500 µm in length; 50–1000+ nm in width). They extend and form direct connections between distant cells, serving as conduits for direct intercellular transfer of cell cargo, such as mitochondria, exosomes, and microRNAs; however, many of their functional roles in mediating tumor growth remain unknown. These conduits literally create a physical bridge to create a syncytial network of dispersed cells amidst the intercellular stroma-rich matrix. Emerging evidence suggests that they provide a cellular mechanism for induction and emergence of drug resistance and contribute to increased invasive and metastatic potential. They have been imaged in vitro and also in vivo and ex vivo in tumors from human patients as well as animal models, thus not only proving their existence in the TME, but opening further speculation about their exact role in the dynamic niche of tumor ecosystems. TNT cellular networks are upregulated between cancer and stromal cells under hypoxic and other conditions of physiologic and metabolic stress. Furthermore, they can connect malignant cells to benign cells, including vascular endothelial cells. The field of investigation of TNT-mediated tumor-stromal, and tumor-tumor, cell-cell communication is gaining momentum. The mixture of conditions in the microenvironment exemplified by hypoxia-induced ovarian cancer TNTs playing a crucial role in tumor growth, as just one example, is a potential avenue of investigation that will uncover their role in relation to other known factors, including EVs. If the role of cancer heterocellular signaling via TNTs in the TME is proven to be crucial, then disrupting formation and maintenance of TNTs represents a novel therapeutic approach for ovarian and other similarly invasive peritoneal cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emil Lou
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Oncology and Transplantation, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Valdebenito S, Audia A, Bhat KP, Okafo G, Eugenin EA. Tunneling Nanotubes Mediate Adaptation of Glioblastoma Cells to Temozolomide and Ionizing Radiation Treatment. iScience 2020; 23:101450. [PMID: 32882515 PMCID: PMC7476317 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2020.101450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Revised: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most prevalent and aggressive tumor in the central nervous system. Surgical resection followed by concurrent radiotherapy (ionizing radiation [IR]) and temozolomide (TMZ) is the standard of care for GBM. However, a large subset of patients offer resistance or become adapted to TMZ due mainly to the DNA repair enzyme O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT). Thus, alternative mechanisms of MGMT deregulation have been proposed but are heretofore unproven. We show that heterogeneous GBM cells express tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) upon oxidative stress and TMZ/IR treatment. We identified that MGMT protein diffused from resistant to sensitive cells upon exposure to TMZ/IR, resulting in protection against cytotoxic therapy in a TNT-dependent manner. In vivo analysis of resected GBM tumors support our hypothesis that the MGMT protein, but not its mRNA, was associated with TNT biomarkers. We propose that targeting TNT formation could be an innovative strategy to overcome treatment resistance in GBM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvana Valdebenito
- Department of Neuroscience, Cell Biology, and Anatomy, University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB), Research Building 17, Fifth Floor, 105 11th Street, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Alessandra Audia
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, Division of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, M.D. Anderson, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Krishna P.L. Bhat
- Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, Division of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, M.D. Anderson, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | - Eliseo A. Eugenin
- Department of Neuroscience, Cell Biology, and Anatomy, University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB), Research Building 17, Fifth Floor, 105 11th Street, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Kenarkoohi A, Bamdad T, Soleimani M, Soleimanjahi H, Fallah A, Falahi S. HSV-TK Expressing Mesenchymal Stem Cells Exert Inhibitory Effect on Cervical Cancer Model. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR AND CELLULAR MEDICINE 2020; 9:146-154. [PMID: 32934952 PMCID: PMC7489112 DOI: 10.22088/ijmcm.bums.9.2.146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
A growing area of research is focused on cancer therapy, and new therapeutic approaches are welcomed. Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-based gene therapy is a promising strategy in oncology. Intrinsic tropism and migration to tumor microenvironment with off lights are attractive features of this type of cell carrier. In this way, suicide genes have also found a good platform for better performance and have shown a stronger anti-tumor mechanism by riding on mesenchymal cells. In this study, we investigated the anti-tumor activity of intratumoral injected MSCs transduced with a lentivector expressing the HSV/TK in a mouse cervical cancer model. Following the injection of MSCs transduced with lentivector carrying TK, MSCs alone or PBS into the mice tumor, ganciclovir was administered intraperitoneally during 14 days, and tumor size, survival time, natural killer (NK) cells and cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) activities were assessed. We demonstrated that combination of suicide therapy and cell therapy leading m,to successful tumor inhibition. Significant reduction in tumor size was detected in test group in comparison with controls. Also, potent antitumor NK and CTL activity was seen in treatment group in comparison with controls. Our data demonstrated that the mesenchymal cells expressing TK had inhibitory effect on cervical cancer model.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Azra Kenarkoohi
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran
| | - Taravat Bamdad
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Masoud Soleimani
- Department of Hematology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hoorieh Soleimanjahi
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Shahab Falahi
- Zoonotic Diseases Research Center, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Tunneling Nanotubes and Tumor Microtubes in Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12040857. [PMID: 32244839 PMCID: PMC7226329 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12040857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Intercellular communication among cancer cells and their microenvironment is crucial to disease progression. The mechanisms by which communication occurs between distant cells in a tumor matrix remain poorly understood. In the last two decades, experimental evidence from different groups proved the existence of thin membranous tubes that interconnect cells, named tunneling nanotubes, tumor microtubes, cytonemes or membrane bridges. These highly dynamic membrane protrusions are conduits for direct cell-to-cell communication, particularly for intercellular signaling and transport of cellular cargo over long distances. Tunneling nanotubes and tumor microtubes may play an important role in the pathogenesis of cancer. They may contribute to the resistance of tumor cells against treatments such as surgery, radio- and chemotherapy. In this review, we present the current knowledge about the structure and function of tunneling nanotubes and tumor microtubes in cancer and discuss the therapeutic potential of membrane tubes in cancer treatment.
Collapse
|
18
|
Abstract
Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) are actin-based intercellular conduits that connect distant cells and allow intercellular transfer of molecular information, including genetic information, proteins, lipids, and even organelles. Besides providing a means of intercellular communication, TNTs may also be hijacked by pathogens, particularly viruses, to facilitate their spread. Viruses of many different families, including retroviruses, herpesviruses, orthomyxoviruses, and several others have been reported to trigger the formation of TNTs or TNT-like structures in infected cells and use these structures to efficiently spread to uninfected cells. In the current review, we give an overview of the information that is currently available on viruses and TNT-like structures, and we discuss some of the standing questions in this field.
Collapse
|
19
|
Lee SW, Lee KJ, Jeong SY, Joo CH, Lee H, Jeong GS. Evaluation of Bystander Infection of Oncolytic Virus using a Medium Flow Integrated 3D In Vitro Microphysiological System. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 4:e1900143. [DOI: 10.1002/adbi.201900143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2019] [Revised: 10/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sang Woo Lee
- Biomedical Engineering Research CenterAsan Institute for Life ScienceAsan Medical Center Seoul 05505 Korea
| | - Kyoung Jin Lee
- Department of MicrobiologyUniversity of Ulsan College of Medicine Seoul 05505 Korea
- Bio‐Medical Institute of TechnologyAsan Medical Center Seoul 05505 Korea
| | - Soo Yeon Jeong
- Biomedical Engineering Research CenterAsan Institute for Life ScienceAsan Medical Center Seoul 05505 Korea
| | - Chul Hyun Joo
- Department of MicrobiologyUniversity of Ulsan College of Medicine Seoul 05505 Korea
- Bio‐Medical Institute of TechnologyAsan Medical Center Seoul 05505 Korea
| | - Heuiran Lee
- Department of MicrobiologyUniversity of Ulsan College of Medicine Seoul 05505 Korea
- Bio‐Medical Institute of TechnologyAsan Medical Center Seoul 05505 Korea
| | - Gi Seok Jeong
- Biomedical Engineering Research CenterAsan Institute for Life ScienceAsan Medical Center Seoul 05505 Korea
- Department of Convergence MedicineUniversity of Ulsan College of Medicine Seoul 05505 Korea
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Matejka N, Reindl J. Perspectives of cellular communication through tunneling nanotubes in cancer cells and the connection to radiation effects. Radiat Oncol 2019; 14:218. [PMID: 31796110 PMCID: PMC6889217 DOI: 10.1186/s13014-019-1416-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Direct cell-to-cell communication is crucial for the survival of cells in stressful situations such as during or after radiation exposure. This communication can lead to non-targeted effects, where non-treated or non-infected cells show effects induced by signal transduction from non-healthy cells or vice versa. In the last 15 years, tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) were identified as membrane connections between cells which facilitate the transfer of several cargoes and signals. TNTs were identified in various cell types and serve as promoter of treatment resistance e.g. in chemotherapy treatment of cancer. Here, we discuss our current understanding of how to differentiate tunneling nanotubes from other direct cellular connections and their role in the stress reaction of cellular networks. We also provide a perspective on how the capability of cells to form such networks is related to the ability to surpass stress and how this can be used to study radioresistance of cancer cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Matejka
- Institut für angewandte Physik und Messtechnik, Universität der Bundeswehr München, Werner-Heisenberg-Weg 39, 85577 Neubiberg, Germany
| | - Judith Reindl
- Institut für angewandte Physik und Messtechnik, Universität der Bundeswehr München, Werner-Heisenberg-Weg 39, 85577 Neubiberg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Review of Emerging Japanese Encephalitis Virus: New Aspects and Concepts about Entry into the Brain and Inter-Cellular Spreading. Pathogens 2019; 8:pathogens8030111. [PMID: 31357540 PMCID: PMC6789543 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens8030111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2019] [Revised: 07/17/2019] [Accepted: 07/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) is an emerging flavivirus of the Asia-Pacific region. More than two billion people live in endemic or epidemic areas and are at risk of infection. Recently, the first autochthonous human case was recorded in Africa, and infected birds have been found in Europe. JEV may spread even further to other continents. The first section of this review covers established and new information about the epidemiology of JEV. The subsequent sections focus on the impact of JEV on humans, including the natural course and immunity. Furthermore, new concepts are discussed about JEV’s entry into the brain. Finally, interactions of JEV and host cells are covered, as well as how JEV may spread in the body through latently infected immune cells and cell-to-cell transmission of virions or via other infectious material, including JEV genomic RNA.
Collapse
|
22
|
Intercellular Transfer of Oncogenic KRAS via Tunneling Nanotubes Introduces Intracellular Mutational Heterogeneity in Colon Cancer Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11070892. [PMID: 31247990 PMCID: PMC6678395 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11070892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2019] [Revised: 06/12/2019] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutated forms of the RAS oncogene drive 30% of all cancers, but they cannot be targeted therapeutically using currently available drugs. The molecular and cellular mechanisms that create a heterogenous tumor environment harboring both mutant and wild-type RAS have not been elucidated. In this study, we examined horizontal transfer of mutant KRAS between colorectal cancer (CRC) cells via a direct form of cell-to-cell communication called tunneling nanotubes (TNTs). TNT formation was significantly higher in CRC cell lines expressing mutant KRAS than CRC cell lines expressing wild-type RAS; this effect was most pronounced in metastatic CRC cell lines with both mutant KRAS and deficiency in mismatch repair proteins. Using inverted and confocal fluorescence time-lapse and fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP)-based microscopy, we observed GFP-tagged mutant KRASG12D protein trafficking between CRC cells through TNTs within a span of seconds to several minutes. Notably, acquisition of mutant KRAS increased Extracellular Signal-regulated Kinase (ERK) phosphorylation and upregulated tunneling nanotube formation in recipient wildtype CRC cells. In conclusion, these findings suggest that intercellular horizontal transfer of RAS can occur by TNTs. We propose that intercellular transfer of mutant RAS can potentially induce intratumoral heterogeneity and result in a more invasive phenotype in recipient cells.
Collapse
|
23
|
Lou E. Can you hear them now? Tumor microtubes form cellular communication networks that protect gliomas from surgical lesions and chemotherapy treatments. Neuro Oncol 2019; 19:1289-1291. [PMID: 28922861 DOI: 10.1093/neuonc/nox103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Emil Lou
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Oncology, and Transplantation and Graduate Faculty, Integrative Biology and Physiology Program, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Long actin-based cellular protrusions as novel evidence of the cytopathic effect induced in immune cells infected by the ectromelia virus. Cent Eur J Immunol 2019; 43:363-370. [PMID: 30799983 PMCID: PMC6384431 DOI: 10.5114/ceji.2018.81352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2017] [Accepted: 07/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the study was to evaluate the influence of ectromelia virus (ECTV) infection on actin cytoskeleton rearrangement in immune cells, such as macrophages and dendritic cells (DCs). Using scanning electron and fluorescence microscopy analysis we observed the presence of long actin-based cellular extensions, formed by both types of immune cells at later stages of infection with ECTV. Such extensions contained straight tubulin filaments and numerous punctuate mitochondria. Moreover, these long cellular projections extended to a certain length and formed convex structures termed “cytoplasmic packets”. These structures contained numerous viral particles and presumably were sites of progeny virions’ release via budding. Further, discrete mitochondria and separated tubulin filaments that formed a scaffold for accumulated mitochondria were visible within cytoplasmic packets. ECTV-induced long actin-based protrusions resemble “cytoplasmic corridors” and probably participate in virus dissemination. Our data demonstrate the incredible capacity for adaptation of ECTV to its natural host immune cells, in which it can survive, replicate and induce effective mechanisms for viral spread and dissemination.
Collapse
|
25
|
Lou E, Zhai E, Sarkari A, Desir S, Wong P, Iizuka Y, Yang J, Subramanian S, McCarthy J, Bazzaro M, Steer CJ. Cellular and Molecular Networking Within the Ecosystem of Cancer Cell Communication via Tunneling Nanotubes. Front Cell Dev Biol 2018; 6:95. [PMID: 30333973 PMCID: PMC6176212 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2018.00095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2018] [Accepted: 08/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Intercellular communication is vital to the ecosystem of cancer cell organization and invasion. Identification of key cellular cargo and their varied modes of transport are important considerations in understanding the basic mechanisms of cancer cell growth. Gap junctions, exosomes, and apoptotic bodies play key roles as physical modalities in mediating intercellular transport. Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs)-narrow actin-based cytoplasmic extensions-are unique structures that facilitate direct, long distance cell-to-cell transport of cargo, including microRNAs, mitochondria, and a variety of other sub cellular components. The transport of cargo via TNTs occurs between malignant and stromal cells and can lead to changes in gene regulation that propagate the cancer phenotype. More notably, the transfer of these varied molecules almost invariably plays a critical role in the communication between cancer cells themselves in an effort to resist death by chemotherapy and promote the growth and metastases of the primary oncogenic cell. The more traditional definition of "Systems Biology" is the computational and mathematical modeling of complex biological systems. The concept, however, is now used more widely in biology for a variety of contexts, including interdisciplinary fields of study that focus on complex interactions within biological systems and how these interactions give rise to the function and behavior of such systems. In fact, it is imperative to understand and reconstruct components in their native context rather than examining them separately. The long-term objective of evaluating cancer ecosystems in their proper context is to better diagnose, classify, and more accurately predict the outcome of cancer treatment. Communication is essential for the advancement and evolution of the tumor ecosystem. This interplay results in cancer progression. As key mediators of intercellular communication within the tumor ecosystem, TNTs are the central topic of this article.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emil Lou
- Division of Hematology, Oncology and Transplantation, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Edward Zhai
- Division of Hematology, Oncology and Transplantation, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Akshat Sarkari
- Division of Hematology, Oncology and Transplantation, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Snider Desir
- Division of Hematology, Oncology and Transplantation, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Phillip Wong
- Division of Hematology, Oncology and Transplantation, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Yoshie Iizuka
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology and Women's Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Jianbo Yang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Subbaya Subramanian
- Department of Surgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - James McCarthy
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Martina Bazzaro
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology and Women's Health, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Clifford J. Steer
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Halász H, Ghadaksaz AR, Madarász T, Huber K, Harami G, Tóth EA, Osteikoetxea-Molnár A, Kovács M, Balogi Z, Nyitrai M, Matkó J, Szabó-Meleg E. Live cell superresolution-structured illumination microscopy imaging analysis of the intercellular transport of microvesicles and costimulatory proteins via nanotubes between immune cells. Methods Appl Fluoresc 2018; 6:045005. [PMID: 30039805 DOI: 10.1088/2050-6120/aad57d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Membrane nanotubes are transient long-distance connections between cells that can facilitate intercellular communication. These tethers can form spontaneously between many cell types, including cells of the immune and nervous systems. Traffic of viral proteins, vesicles, calcium ions, mRNA, miRNA, mitochondria, lysosomes and membrane proteins/raft domains have all been reported so far via the open ended tunneling nanotubes (TNTs). Recently we reported on existence of plasma membrane derived GM1/GM3 ganglioside enriched microvesicles and costimulatory proteins in nanotubes connecting B lymphocytes, the way they are formed and transported across TNTs, however, still remained unclear. Here, using live cell confocal and Structured Illumination (SR-SIM) superresolution imaging, we show that B cells respond to bacterial (Cholera) toxin challenge by their subsequent internalization followed by rapid formation of intracellular microvesicles (MVs). These MVs are then transported between adjacent B cells via nanotubes. Selective transport-inhibition analysis of two abundant motor proteins in these cell types demonstrated that actin-based non-muscle myosin 2A dominantly mediates intercellular MV-transport via TNTs, in contrast to the microtubule-based dynein, as shown by the unchanged transport after inhibition of the latter. As suggested by SR-SIM images of GFP-CD86 transfected macrophages, these costimulatory molecules may be transferred by unusually shaped MVs through thick TNTs connecting macrophages. In contrast, in B cell cultures the same GFP-CD86 is dominantly transported along the membrane wall of TNTs. Such intercellular molecule-exchange can consequently improve the efficiency of antigen-dependent T cell activation, especially in macrophages with weak costimulator expression and T cell activation capacity. Such improved T cell activating potential of these two cell types may result in a more efficient cellular immune response and formation of immunological memory. The results also highlight the power of superresolution microscopy to uncover so far hidden structural details of biological processes, such as microvesicle formation and transport.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Henriett Halász
- Department of Biophysics, Medical School, University of Pécs, Szigeti street 12, H-7624, Pécs, Hungary
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Sprague L, Braidwood L, Conner J, Cassady KA, Benencia F, Cripe TP. Please stand by: how oncolytic viruses impact bystander cells. Future Virol 2018; 13:671-680. [PMID: 30416535 DOI: 10.2217/fvl-2018-0068] [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] [Received: 04/18/2018] [Accepted: 05/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Oncolytic viruses (OVs) do more than simply infect and kill host cells. The accepted mechanism of action for OVs consists of a primary lytic phase and a subsequent antitumor and antiviral immune response. However, not all cells are subject to the direct effects of OV therapy, and it is becoming clear that OVs can also impact uninfected cells in the periphery. This review discusses the effects of OVs on uninfected neighboring cells, so-called bystander effects, and implications for OV therapies alone or in combination with other standard of care chemotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leslee Sprague
- The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, Columbus, 43201 OH, USA.,The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, Columbus, 43201 OH, USA
| | - Lynne Braidwood
- Virttu Biologics, BioCity, Scotland, UK.,Virttu Biologics, BioCity, Scotland, UK
| | - Joe Conner
- Virttu Biologics, BioCity, Scotland, UK.,Virttu Biologics, BioCity, Scotland, UK
| | - Kevin A Cassady
- Nationwide Children's Hospital, Division of Infectious Diseases, Columbus, 43205 OH, USA.,Nationwide Children's Hospital, Division of Hematology/Oncology/BMT & Center for Childhood Cancer & Blood Diseases, Columbus, 43205 OH, USA.,Nationwide Children's Hospital, Division of Infectious Diseases, Columbus, 43205 OH, USA.,Nationwide Children's Hospital, Division of Hematology/Oncology/BMT & Center for Childhood Cancer & Blood Diseases, Columbus, 43205 OH, USA
| | - Fabian Benencia
- Ohio University Russ College of Engineering & Technology, Biomedical Engineering, Athens, 45701 OH, USA.,Ohio University Russ College of Engineering & Technology, Biomedical Engineering, Athens, 45701 OH, USA
| | - Timothy P Cripe
- The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, Columbus, 43201 OH, USA.,Nationwide Children's Hospital, Division of Hematology/Oncology/BMT & Center for Childhood Cancer & Blood Diseases, Columbus, 43205 OH, USA.,The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, Columbus, 43201 OH, USA.,Nationwide Children's Hospital, Division of Hematology/Oncology/BMT & Center for Childhood Cancer & Blood Diseases, Columbus, 43205 OH, USA
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Yamashita YM, Inaba M, Buszczak M. Specialized Intercellular Communications via Cytonemes and Nanotubes. Annu Rev Cell Dev Biol 2018; 34:59-84. [PMID: 30074816 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-cellbio-100617-062932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, thin membrane protrusions such as cytonemes and tunneling nanotubes have emerged as a novel mechanism of intercellular communication. Protrusion-based cellular interactions allow for specific communication between participating cells and have a distinct spectrum of advantages compared to secretion- and diffusion-based intercellular communication. Identification of protrusion-based signaling in diverse systems suggests that this mechanism is a ubiquitous and prevailing means of communication employed by many cell types. Moreover, accumulating evidence indicates that protrusion-based intercellular communication is often involved in pathogenesis, including cancers and infections. Here we review our current understanding of protrusion-based intercellular communication.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yukiko M Yamashita
- Life Sciences Institute, Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA;
| | - Mayu Inaba
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut 06030, USA;
| | - Michael Buszczak
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Chemotherapy-Induced Tunneling Nanotubes Mediate Intercellular Drug Efflux in Pancreatic Cancer. Sci Rep 2018; 8:9484. [PMID: 29930346 PMCID: PMC6013499 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-27649-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2017] [Accepted: 06/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Intercellular communication plays a critical role in the ever-evolving landscape of invasive cancers. Recent studies have elucidated the potential role of tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) in this function. TNTs are long, filamentous, actin-based cell protrusions that mediate direct cell-to-cell communication between malignant cells. In this study, we investigated the formation of TNTs in response to variable concentrations of the chemotherapeutic drug doxorubicin, which is used extensively in the treatment of cancer patients. Doxorubicin stimulated an increased formation of TNTs in pancreatic cancer cells, and this occurred in a dose-dependent fashion. Furthermore, TNTs facilitated the intercellular redistribution of this drug between connected cells in both pancreatic and ovarian cancer systems in vitro. To provide supportive evidence for the relevance of TNTs in pancreatic cancer in vivo, we performed multiphoton fluorescence microscopy and imaged TNTs in tumor specimens resected from three human patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma, and one with neuroendocrine carcinoma. In sum, TNT formation was upregulated in aggressive forms of pancreatic carcinoma, was further stimulated after chemotherapy exposure, and acted as a novel method for drug efflux. These findings implicate TNTs as a potential novel mechanism of drug resistance in chemorefractory forms of cancer.
Collapse
|
30
|
Valdebenito S, Lou E, Baldoni J, Okafo G, Eugenin E. The Novel Roles of Connexin Channels and Tunneling Nanotubes in Cancer Pathogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:E1270. [PMID: 29695070 PMCID: PMC5983846 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19051270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2018] [Revised: 04/13/2018] [Accepted: 04/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Neoplastic growth and cellular differentiation are critical hallmarks of tumor development. It is well established that cell-to-cell communication between tumor cells and "normal" surrounding cells regulates tumor differentiation and proliferation, aggressiveness, and resistance to treatment. Nevertheless, the mechanisms that result in tumor growth and spread as well as the adaptation of healthy surrounding cells to the tumor environment are poorly understood. A major component of these communication systems is composed of connexin (Cx)-containing channels including gap junctions (GJs), tunneling nanotubes (TNTs), and hemichannels (HCs). There are hundreds of reports about the role of Cx-containing channels in the pathogenesis of cancer, and most of them demonstrate a downregulation of these proteins. Nonetheless, new data demonstrate that a localized communication via Cx-containing GJs, HCs, and TNTs plays a key role in tumor growth, differentiation, and resistance to therapies. Moreover, the type and downstream effects of signals communicated between the different populations of tumor cells are still unknown. However, new approaches such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) could provide new insights into these signals communicated between connected cells. We propose that the identification and characterization of these new communication systems and their associated signaling could provide new targets to prevent or reduce the devastating consequences of cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvana Valdebenito
- Public Health Research Institute (PHRI), Newark, NJ 07103, USA.
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers the State University of NJ, Newark, NJ 07103, USA.
| | - Emil Lou
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Oncology and Transplantation, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
| | - John Baldoni
- GlaxoSmithKline, In-Silico Drug Discovery Unit, 1250 South Collegeville Road, Collegeville, PA 19426, USA.
| | - George Okafo
- GlaxoSmithKline, In-Silico Drug Discovery Unit, Stevenage SG1 2NY, UK.
| | - Eliseo Eugenin
- Public Health Research Institute (PHRI), Newark, NJ 07103, USA.
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers the State University of NJ, Newark, NJ 07103, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Thayanithy V, O'Hare P, Wong P, Zhao X, Steer CJ, Subramanian S, Lou E. A transwell assay that excludes exosomes for assessment of tunneling nanotube-mediated intercellular communication. Cell Commun Signal 2017; 15:46. [PMID: 29132390 PMCID: PMC5683209 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-017-0201-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2017] [Accepted: 10/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) are naturally-occurring filamentous actin-based membranous extensions that form across a wide spectrum of mammalian cell types to facilitate long-range intercellular communication. Valid assays are needed to accurately assess the downstream effects of TNT-mediated transfer of cellular signals in vitro. We recently reported a modified transwell assay system designed to test the effects of intercellular transfer of a therapeutic oncolytic virus, and viral-activated drugs, between cells via TNTs. The objective of the current study was to demonstrate validation of this in vitro approach as a new method for effectively excluding diffusible forms of long- and close-range intercellular transfer of intracytoplasmic cargo, including exosomes/microvesicles and gap junctions in order to isolate TNT-selective cell communication. Methods We designed several steps to effectively reduce or eliminate diffusion and long-range transfer via these extracellular vesicles, and used Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis to quantify exosomes following implementation of these steps. Results The experimental approach outlined here effectively reduced exosome trafficking by >95%; further use of heparin to block exosome uptake by putative recipient cells further impeded transfer of these extracellular vesicles. Conclusions This validated assay incorporates several steps that can be taken to quantifiably control for extracellular vesicles in order to perform studies focused on TNT-selective communication. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12964-017-0201-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Venugopal Thayanithy
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Oncology and Transplantation, University of Minnesota, Mayo Mail Code 480, 420 Delaware Street SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA.,Present Address: Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory, University of Minnesota Medical Center, Fairview, 420 Delaware St SE, MMC 198, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Patrick O'Hare
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Oncology and Transplantation, University of Minnesota, Mayo Mail Code 480, 420 Delaware Street SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Phillip Wong
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Oncology and Transplantation, University of Minnesota, Mayo Mail Code 480, 420 Delaware Street SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Xianda Zhao
- Department of Surgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Clifford J Steer
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA.,Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | | | - Emil Lou
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Oncology and Transplantation, University of Minnesota, Mayo Mail Code 480, 420 Delaware Street SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA. .,Graduate Faculty, Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Yokoda R, Nagalo BM, Vernon B, Oklu R, Albadawi H, DeLeon TT, Zhou Y, Egan JB, Duda DG, Borad MJ. Oncolytic virus delivery: from nano-pharmacodynamics to enhanced oncolytic effect. Oncolytic Virother 2017; 6:39-49. [PMID: 29184854 PMCID: PMC5687448 DOI: 10.2147/ov.s145262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
With the advancement of a growing number of oncolytic viruses (OVs) to clinical development, drug delivery is becoming an important barrier to overcome for optimal therapeutic benefits. Host immunity, tumor microenvironment and abnormal vascularity contribute to inefficient vector delivery. A number of novel approaches for enhanced OV delivery are under evaluation, including use of nanoparticles, immunomodulatory agents and complex viral–particle ligands along with manipulations of the tumor microenvironment. This field of OV delivery has quickly evolved to bioengineering of complex nanoparticles that could be deposited within the tumor using minimal invasive image-guided delivery. Some of the strategies include ultrasound (US)-mediated cavitation-enhanced extravasation, magnetic viral complexes delivery, image-guided infusions with focused US and targeting photodynamic virotherapy. In addition, strategies that modulate tumor microenvironment to decrease extracellular matrix deposition and increase viral propagation are being used to improve tumor penetration by OVs. Some involve modification of the viral genome to enhance their tumoral penetration potential. Here, we highlight the barriers to oncolytic viral delivery, and discuss the challenges to improving it and the perspectives of establishing new modes of active delivery to achieve enhanced oncolytic effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Yokoda
- Division of Hematology Oncology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale
| | - Bolni M Nagalo
- Division of Hematology Oncology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale
| | - Brent Vernon
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Arizona State University, Tempe
| | - Rahmi Oklu
- Division of Vascular and Interventional Radiology, Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ
| | - Hassan Albadawi
- Division of Vascular and Interventional Radiology, Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ
| | - Thomas T DeLeon
- Division of Hematology Oncology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale
| | - Yumei Zhou
- Division of Hematology Oncology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale
| | - Jan B Egan
- Division of Hematology Oncology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale
| | - Dan G Duda
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Mitesh J Borad
- Division of Hematology Oncology, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Nawaz M, Fatima F. Extracellular Vesicles, Tunneling Nanotubes, and Cellular Interplay: Synergies and Missing Links. Front Mol Biosci 2017; 4:50. [PMID: 28770210 PMCID: PMC5513920 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2017.00050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2017] [Accepted: 07/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The process of intercellular communication seems to have been a highly conserved evolutionary process. Higher eukaryotes use several means of intercellular communication to address both the changing physiological demands of the body and to fight against diseases. In recent years, there has been an increasing interest in understanding how cell-derived nanovesicles, known as extracellular vesicles (EVs), can function as normal paracrine mediators of intercellular communication, but can also elicit disease progression and may be used for innovative therapies. Over the last decade, a large body of evidence has accumulated to show that cells use cytoplasmic extensions comprising open-ended channels called tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) to connect cells at a long distance and facilitate the exchange of cytoplasmic material. TNTs are a different means of communication to classical gap junctions or cell fusions; since they are characterized by long distance bridging that transfers cytoplasmic organelles and intracellular vesicles between cells and represent the process of heteroplasmy. The role of EVs in cell communication is relatively well-understood, but how TNTs fit into this process is just emerging. The aim of this review is to describe the relationship between TNTs and EVs, and to discuss the synergies between these two crucial processes in the context of normal cellular cross-talk, physiological roles, modulation of immune responses, development of diseases, and their combinatory effects in tissue repair. At the present time this review appears to be the first summary of the implications of the overlapping roles of TNTs and EVs. We believe that a better appreciation of these parallel processes will improve our understanding on how these nanoscale conduits can be utilized as novel tools for targeted therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Nawaz
- Department of Pathology and Forensic Medicine, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of São PauloSão Paulo, Brazil.,Department of Rheumatology and Inflammation Research, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of GothenburgGothenburg, Sweden
| | - Farah Fatima
- Department of Pathology and Forensic Medicine, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of São PauloSão Paulo, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|