1
|
Kaufmann J, Haist M, Kur IM, Zimmer S, Hagemann J, Matthias C, Grabbe S, Schmidberger H, Weigert A, Mayer A. Tumor-stroma contact ratio - a novel predictive factor for tumor response to chemoradiotherapy in locally advanced oropharyngeal cancer. Transl Oncol 2024; 46:102019. [PMID: 38833784 PMCID: PMC11190748 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2024.102019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
The growth pattern of oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas (OPSCC) varies from compact tumor cell aggregates to diffusely infiltrating tumor cell-clusters. The influence of the growth pattern on local tumor control and survival has been studied mainly for surgically treated oral cavity carcinomas on a visual basis. In this study, we used multiplex immunofluorescence staining (mIF) to examine the antigens pan-cytokeratin, p16INK4a, Ki67, CD271, PD-L1, and CD8 in pretherapeutic biopsies from 86 OPSCC. We introduce Tumor-stroma contact ratio (TSC), a novel parameter, to quantify the relationship between tumor cells in contact with the stromal surface and the total number of epithelial tumor cells. mIF tumor cores were analyzed at the single-cell level, and tumor-stromal contact area was quantified using the R package "Spatstat". TSC was correlated with the visually assessed invasion pattern by two independent investigators. Furthermore, TSC was analyzed in relation to clinical parameters and patient survival data to evaluate its potential prognostic significance. Higher TSC correlated with poor response to (chemo-)radiotherapy (r = 0.3, p < 0.01), and shorter overall (OS) and progression-free (PFS) survival (median OS: 13 vs 136 months, p < 0.0001; median PFS: 5 vs 85 months, p < 0.0001). Visual categorization of growth pattern according to established criteria of tumor aggressiveness showed interobserver variability increasing with more nuanced categories (2 categories: k = 0.7, 95 %-CI: 0.55 - 0.85; 4 categories k = 0.48, 95 %-CI: 0.35 - 0.61). In conclusion, TSC is an objective and reproducible computer-based parameter to quantify tumor-stroma contact area. We demonstrate its relevance for the response of oropharyngeal carcinomas to primary (chemo-)radiotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Justus Kaufmann
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Radiotherapy, University Medical Center of the Johannes-Gutenberg-University, Mainz 55131, Germany.
| | - Maximilian Haist
- Department of Dermatology, University Medical Center of the Johannes-Gutenberg-University, 55131 Mainz, Germany; Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Ivan-Maximiliano Kur
- Institute of Biochemistry I, Faculty of Medicine, Goethe-University Frankfurt, 60596 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Stefanie Zimmer
- Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center of the Johannes-Gutenberg-University, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Jan Hagemann
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Medical Center of the Johannes-Gutenberg-University, Mainz 55131, Germany
| | - Christoph Matthias
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Medical Center of the Johannes-Gutenberg-University, Mainz 55131, Germany
| | - Stephan Grabbe
- Department of Dermatology, University Medical Center of the Johannes-Gutenberg-University, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Heinz Schmidberger
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Radiotherapy, University Medical Center of the Johannes-Gutenberg-University, Mainz 55131, Germany
| | - Andreas Weigert
- Institute of Biochemistry I, Faculty of Medicine, Goethe-University Frankfurt, 60596 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Arnulf Mayer
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Radiotherapy, University Medical Center of the Johannes-Gutenberg-University, Mainz 55131, Germany; Division of Radiation Oncology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Steffens S, Kayser C, Roesner A, Rawluk J, Schmid S, Gkika E, Kayser G. Low densities of immune cells indicate unfavourable overall survival in patients suffering from squamous cell carcinoma of the lung. Sci Rep 2024; 14:14250. [PMID: 38902361 PMCID: PMC11190142 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-64956-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Carcinogenesis and tumor proliferation are characterized by a complex interaction of cancer cells with the tumor microenvironment. In particular, a tumor-promoting effect can be assumed for the stroma and its fibroblasts. An influence of the immune system on non small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is now also suspected. In our study, we examined 309 sections of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), a subtype of NSCLC. We determined the cell densities and areas of the different tissues in SCC using the software QuPath. Spearman rank correlation showed a significant positive correlation between the different tumor cell densities and stromal cell densities, and between tumor cell densities and immune cell densities. Overall survival curves by the Kaplan-Meier method revealed a prominent negative curve in cases of low immune cell density. Based on our results, we can assume a positive influence of the tumor microenvironment, especially the stromal cells, on tumor proliferation in SCC. We have also revealed that low density of immune cells is prognostically unfavorable.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simone Steffens
- Institute of Pathology Naehrig Mattern Kayser, Bötzinger Strasse 60, Freiburg, Germany.
- Institute of Surgical Pathology, University Medical Center Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Breisacher Strasse 115a, Freiburg, Germany.
| | - Claudia Kayser
- Institute for Dermatopathology Laaf, Sasbacher Strasse 10, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Anuschka Roesner
- Dental Clinic Zahnzentrum Roesner & Kollegen, Englerstraße 4a, Offenburg, Germany
| | - Justyna Rawluk
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, University Medical Center Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Hugstetter Strasse 55, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Severin Schmid
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, University Medical Center Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Hugstetter Strasse 55, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Eleni Gkika
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Medical Center Bonn, Faculty of Medicine, University of Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, Bonn, Germany
| | - Gian Kayser
- Institute of Pathology Naehrig Mattern Kayser, Bötzinger Strasse 60, Freiburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Ryu KB, Seo JA, Lee K, Choi J, Yoo G, Ha JH, Ahn MR. Drug-Resistance Biomarkers in Patient-Derived Colorectal Cancer Organoid and Fibroblast Co-Culture System. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2024; 46:5794-5811. [PMID: 38921017 PMCID: PMC11202770 DOI: 10.3390/cimb46060346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2024] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer, the third most commonly occurring tumor worldwide, poses challenges owing to its high mortality rate and persistent drug resistance in metastatic cases. We investigated the tumor microenvironment, emphasizing the role of cancer-associated fibroblasts in the progression and chemoresistance of colorectal cancer. We used an indirect co-culture system comprising colorectal cancer organoids and cancer-associated fibroblasts to simulate the tumor microenvironment. Immunofluorescence staining validated the characteristics of both organoids and fibroblasts, showing high expression of epithelial cell markers (EPCAM), colon cancer markers (CK20), proliferation markers (KI67), and fibroblast markers (VIM, SMA). Transcriptome profiling was conducted after treatment with anticancer drugs, such as 5-fluorouracil and oxaliplatin, to identify chemoresistance-related genes. Changes in gene expression in the co-cultured colorectal cancer organoids following anticancer drug treatment, compared to monocultured organoids, particularly in pathways related to interferon-alpha/beta signaling and major histocompatibility complex class II protein complex assembly, were identified. These two gene groups potentially mediate drug resistance associated with JAK/STAT signaling. The interaction between colorectal cancer organoids and fibroblasts crucially modulates the expression of genes related to drug resistance. These findings suggest that the interaction between colorectal cancer organoids and fibroblasts significantly influences gene expression related to drug resistance, highlighting potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for overcoming chemoresistance. Enhanced understanding of the interactions between cancer cells and their microenvironment can lead to advancements in personalized medical research..
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Ji-hye Ha
- Clinical Research Division, National Institute of Food and Drug Safety Evaluation, Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, Cheongju 28159, Chungcheongbuk-do, Republic of Korea; (K.-B.R.)
| | - Mee Ryung Ahn
- Clinical Research Division, National Institute of Food and Drug Safety Evaluation, Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, Cheongju 28159, Chungcheongbuk-do, Republic of Korea; (K.-B.R.)
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Thakur A, Rana M, Mishra A, Kaur C, Pan CH, Nepali K. Recent advances and future directions on small molecule VEGFR inhibitors in oncological conditions. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 272:116472. [PMID: 38728867 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116472] [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: 03/07/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
"A journey of mixed emotions" is a quote that best describes the progress chart of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR) inhibitors as cancer therapeutics in the last decade. Exhilarated with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approvals of numerous VEGFR inhibitors coupled with the annoyance of encountering the complications associated with their use, drug discovery enthusiasts are on their toes with an unswerving determination to enhance the rate of translation of VEGFR inhibitors from preclinical to clinical stage. The recently crafted armory of VEGFR inhibitors is a testament to their growing dominance over other antiangiogenic therapies for cancer treatment. This review perspicuously underscores the earnest attempts of the researchers to extract the antiproliferative potential of VEGFR inhibitors through the design of mechanistically diverse structural assemblages. Moreover, this review encompasses sections on structural/molecular properties and physiological functions of VEGFR, FDA-approved VEGFR inhibitors, and hurdles restricting the activity range/clinical applicability of VEGFR targeting antitumor agents. In addition, tactics to overcome the limitations of VEGFR inhibitors are discussed. A clear-cut viewpoint transmitted through this compilation can provide practical directions to push the cart of VEGFR inhibitors to advanced-stage clinical investigations in diverse malignancies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amandeep Thakur
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110031, Taiwan
| | - Mandeep Rana
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110031, Taiwan
| | - Anshul Mishra
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110031, Taiwan
| | - Charanjit Kaur
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, India
| | - Chun-Hsu Pan
- Ph.D. Program in Drug Discovery and Development Industry, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taiwan
| | - Kunal Nepali
- School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110031, Taiwan; Ph.D. Program in Drug Discovery and Development Industry, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Carmi YK, Agbarya A, Khamaisi H, Farah R, Shechtman Y, Korobochka R, Gopas J, Mahajna J. Ovarian cancer ascites confers platinum chemoresistance to ovarian cancer cells. Transl Oncol 2024; 44:101939. [PMID: 38489872 PMCID: PMC10955424 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2024.101939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer (OC), the second most common form of gynecologic malignancy, has a poor prognosis and is often discovered in the late stages. Platinum-based chemotherapy is the first line of therapy. Nevertheless, treatment OC has proven challenging due to toxicity and the development of acquired resistance to therapy. Tumor microenvironment (TME) has been associated with platinum chemoresistance. Malignant ascites has been used as OC tumor microenvironment and its ability to induce platinum chemoresistance has been investigated. Our results suggest that exposure to OC ascites induces platinum chemoresistance in 11 of 13 cases (85 %) on OC cells. In contrast, 75 % of cirrhotic ascites (3 of 4) failed to confer platinum chemoresistance to OC cells. Cytokine array analysis revealed that IL -6 and to a lesser extent HGF were enriched in OC ascites, whereas IL -22 was enriched in cirrhotic ascites. Pharmaceutical inhibitors targeting the IL -6/ JAK pathway were mildly effective in overcoming platinum chemoresistance induced by malignant ascites. In contrast, crizotinib, an HGF/c- MET inhibitor, and 2-hydroxyestradiol (2HE2) were effective in restoring platinum chemosensitivity to OC. Our results demonstrate the importance of OC ascites in supporting platinum chemoresistance and the potential of combination therapy to restore chemosensitivity of OC cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yifat Koren Carmi
- Department of Nutrition and Natural Products, Migal - Galilee Research Institute, Kiryat Shmona, Israel; Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Genetics, and Department of Oncology, Soroka University Medical Center, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Abed Agbarya
- Oncology Department, Bnai Zion MC, Haifa, Israel
| | - Hazem Khamaisi
- Department of Nutrition and Natural Products, Migal - Galilee Research Institute, Kiryat Shmona, Israel
| | - Raymond Farah
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ziv Medical Center, Safed, Israel
| | | | | | - Jacob Gopas
- Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Genetics, and Department of Oncology, Soroka University Medical Center, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Jamal Mahajna
- Department of Nutrition and Natural Products, Migal - Galilee Research Institute, Kiryat Shmona, Israel; Department of Biotechnology, Tel-Hai College, Kiryat Shmona, Israel.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Wu Y, Chen R, Ni S, Hu K. Biomimetic "nano-spears" for CAFs-targeting: splintered three "shields" with enhanced cisplatin anti-TNBC efficiency. J Control Release 2024; 370:556-569. [PMID: 38697316 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.04.053] [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: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024]
Abstract
The treatment dilemma of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) revolves around drug resistance and metastasis. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) contribute to cisplatin (Cis) resistance and further metastasis in TNBC, making TNBC a difficult-to-treat disease. The dense stromal barrier which restricts drug delivery, invasive phenotype of tumor cells, and immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) induced by CAFs serve as three "shields" for TNBC against Cis therapy. Here, we designed a silybin-loaded biomimetic nanoparticle coated with anisamide-modified red blood cell membrane (ARm@SNP) as a "nanospear" for CAFs-targeting, which could shatter the "shields" and significantly exhibit inhibitory effect on 4T1 cells in combination with Cis both in vitro and in vivo. The ARm@SNP/Cis elicited 4T1 tumor growth arrest and destroyed three "shields" as follows: disintegrating the stromal barrier by inhibiting blood vessels growth and the expression of fibronectin; decreasing 4T1 cell invasion and metastasis by affecting the TGF-β/Twist/EMT pathway which impeded EMT activation; reversing the immunosuppressive microenvironment by increasing the activity and infiltration of immunocompetent cells. Based on CAFs-targeting, ARm@SNP reversed the resistance of Cis, remodeled the TME and inhibited invasion and metastasis while significantly improving the therapeutic effect of Cis on 4T1 tumor-bearing mice, providing a promising approach for treating intractable TNBC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yufan Wu
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Rujing Chen
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China; Department of Pharmacy, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Shuting Ni
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Kaili Hu
- School of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China; Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of TCM Chemical Biology, Institute of Interdisciplinary Integrative Medicine Research, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Zhang Z, Chen W, Sun M, Aalders T, Verhaegh GW, Kouwer PHJ. TempEasy 3D Hydrogel Coculture System Provides Mechanistic Insights into Prostate Cancer Bone Metastasis. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:25773-25787. [PMID: 38739686 PMCID: PMC11129143 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c03453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Patients diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer (PCa) often experience incurable bone metastases; however, a lack of relevant experimental models has hampered the study of disease mechanisms and the development of therapeutic strategies. In this study, we employed the recently established Temperature-based Easy-separable (TempEasy) 3D cell coculture system to investigate PCa bone metastasis. Through coculturing PCa and bone cells for 7 days, our results showed a reduction in PCa cell proliferation, an increase in neovascularization, and an enhanced metastasis potential when cocultured with bone cells. Additionally, we observed increased cell proliferation, higher stemness, and decreased bone matrix protein expression in bone cells when cocultured with PCa cells. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the stiffness of the extracellular matrix had a negligible impact on molecular responses in both primary (PCa cells) and distant malignant (bone cells) sites. The TempEasy 3D hydrogel coculture system is an easy-to-use and versatile coculture system that provides valuable insights into the mechanisms of cell-cell communication and interaction in cancer metastasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhaobao Zhang
- Institute
for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, Nijmegen 6525 AJ, The Netherlands
| | - Wen Chen
- Institute
for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, Nijmegen 6525 AJ, The Netherlands
| | - Mingchen Sun
- Institute
for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, Nijmegen 6525 AJ, The Netherlands
| | - Tilly Aalders
- Department
of Urology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud university medical center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 28, Nijmegen 6525 GA, The Netherlands
| | - Gerald W. Verhaegh
- Department
of Urology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud university medical center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 28, Nijmegen 6525 GA, The Netherlands
| | - Paul H. J. Kouwer
- Institute
for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, Nijmegen 6525 AJ, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Sneider A, Liu Y, Starich B, Du W, Nair PR, Marar C, Faqih N, Ciotti GE, Kim JH, Krishnan S, Ibrahim S, Igboko M, Locke A, Lewis DM, Hong H, Karl MN, Vij R, Russo GC, Gómez-de-Mariscal E, Habibi M, Muñoz-Barrutia A, Gu L, Eisinger-Mathason TK, Wirtz D. Small Extracellular Vesicles Promote Stiffness-mediated Metastasis. CANCER RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS 2024; 4:1240-1252. [PMID: 38630893 PMCID: PMC11080964 DOI: 10.1158/2767-9764.crc-23-0431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
Tissue stiffness is a critical prognostic factor in breast cancer and is associated with metastatic progression. Here we show an alternative and complementary hypothesis of tumor progression whereby physiologic matrix stiffness affects the quantity and protein cargo of small extracellular vesicles (EV) produced by cancer cells, which in turn aid cancer cell dissemination. Primary patient breast tissue released by cancer cells on matrices that model human breast tumors (25 kPa; stiff EVs) feature increased adhesion molecule presentation (ITGα2β1, ITGα6β4, ITGα6β1, CD44) compared with EVs from softer normal tissue (0.5 kPa; soft EVs), which facilitates their binding to extracellular matrix proteins including collagen IV, and a 3-fold increase in homing ability to distant organs in mice. In a zebrafish xenograft model, stiff EVs aid cancer cell dissemination. Moreover, normal, resident lung fibroblasts treated with stiff and soft EVs change their gene expression profiles to adopt a cancer-associated fibroblast phenotype. These findings show that EV quantity, cargo, and function depend heavily on the mechanical properties of the extracellular microenvironment. SIGNIFICANCE Here we show that the quantity, cargo, and function of breast cancer-derived EVs vary with mechanical properties of the extracellular microenvironment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Sneider
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins Physical Sciences–Oncology Center and Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Ying Liu
- Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Penn Sarcoma Program, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Bartholomew Starich
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins Physical Sciences–Oncology Center and Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Wenxuan Du
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins Physical Sciences–Oncology Center and Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Praful R. Nair
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins Physical Sciences–Oncology Center and Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Carolyn Marar
- Johns Hopkins Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Najwa Faqih
- Johns Hopkins Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Gabrielle E. Ciotti
- Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Penn Sarcoma Program, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Joo Ho Kim
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering and Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Sejal Krishnan
- Johns Hopkins Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Salma Ibrahim
- Johns Hopkins Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Muna Igboko
- Johns Hopkins Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Alexus Locke
- Johns Hopkins Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Daniel M. Lewis
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins Physical Sciences–Oncology Center and Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Hanna Hong
- Johns Hopkins Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Michelle N. Karl
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins Physical Sciences–Oncology Center and Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Raghav Vij
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Gabriella C. Russo
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins Physical Sciences–Oncology Center and Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Estibaliz Gómez-de-Mariscal
- Bioengineering and Aerospace Engineering Department, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, Leganés, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Mehran Habibi
- Johns Hopkins Breast Center, Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Arrate Muñoz-Barrutia
- Bioengineering and Aerospace Engineering Department, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, Leganés, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Luo Gu
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering and Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - T.S. Karin Eisinger-Mathason
- Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Penn Sarcoma Program, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Denis Wirtz
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins Physical Sciences–Oncology Center and Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering and Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Yu KX, Yuan WJ, Wang HZ, Li YX. Extracellular matrix stiffness and tumor-associated macrophage polarization: new fields affecting immune exclusion. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2024; 73:115. [PMID: 38693304 PMCID: PMC11063025 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-024-03675-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
In the malignant progression of tumors, there is deposition and cross-linking of collagen, as well as an increase in hyaluronic acid content, which can lead to an increase in extracellular matrix stiffness. Recent research evidence have shown that the extracellular matrix plays an important role in angiogenesis, cell proliferation, migration, immunosuppression, apoptosis, metabolism, and resistance to chemotherapeutic by the alterations toward both secretion and degradation. The clinical importance of tumor-associated macrophage is increasingly recognized, and macrophage polarization plays a central role in a series of tumor immune processes through internal signal cascade, thus regulating tumor progression. Immunotherapy has gradually become a reliable potential treatment strategy for conventional chemotherapy resistance and advanced cancer patients, but the presence of immune exclusion has become a major obstacle to treatment effectiveness, and the reasons for their resistance to these approaches remain uncertain. Currently, there is a lack of exact mechanism on the regulation of extracellular matrix stiffness and tumor-associated macrophage polarization on immune exclusion. An in-depth understanding of the relationship between extracellular matrix stiffness, tumor-associated macrophage polarization, and immune exclusion will help reveal new therapeutic targets and guide the development of clinical treatment methods for advanced cancer patients. This review summarized the different pathways and potential molecular mechanisms of extracellular matrix stiffness and tumor-associated macrophage polarization involved in immune exclusion and provided available strategies to address immune exclusion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ke-Xun Yu
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, China
| | - Wei-Jie Yuan
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Hui-Zhen Wang
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, China
| | - Yong-Xiang Li
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230022, China.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Kuo YR, Lee YC, Wang CT, Liu WC, Ou CH, Lin KC, Cheng TH, Jan HC, Hu CY. Prognostic value of preoperative radiographic perinephric fat features in renal cell carcinoma patients undergoing surgery. Asian J Surg 2024; 47:2188-2194. [PMID: 38383186 DOI: 10.1016/j.asjsur.2024.02.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We aimed to assess the prognostic importance of perinephric fat features in images of patients with non-metastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC) undergoing surgery. METHODS We enrolled RCC patients who underwent surgical treatment between 2011 and 2019. Two characteristics, including perinephric fat thickness and perinephric fat stranding, were evaluated using preoperative computed tomography or magnetic resonance images. The association between perinephric fat characteristics and disease progression was examined by Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and Cox regression model. RESULTS In a multivariate Cox proportional hazards model adjusting for tumor stage, intratumoral necrosis, and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, we found that patients in the thin perinephric fat group (<1 cm) had a poorer progression-free survival (PFS) compared to the thick perinephric fat group (≥1 cm) (HR 2.8; 95% CI 1.175-6.674, p = 0.02). Additionally, the fat stranding group had a poorer PFS than the non-stranding group (HR 3.852; 95% CI 1.082-13.704, p = 0.037). The non-stranding with thick perinephric fat group exhibits the highest cumulative PFS while the stranding with thin perinephric fat group has the lowest cumulative PFS. In receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, combing these two perinephric fat characteristics with tumor stage can achieve a better discriminatory power than tumor stage alone. CONCLUSIONS Our study indicates that the evaluation of image-based perinephric fat features is a simple, straightforward, reproducible tool for predicting RCC prognosis and may assist in preoperative risk stratification.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuh-Ren Kuo
- Department of Urology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 704, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Ya-Che Lee
- Department of Urology, Ditmanson Medical Foundation Chia-Yi Christian Hospital, Chiayi, 600, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Chung-Teng Wang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 704, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Wan-Chen Liu
- Department of Medical Imaging, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 704, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Chien-Hui Ou
- Department of Urology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 704, Taiwan, ROC; Department of Urology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 704, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Kun-Che Lin
- Department of Urology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 704, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Tsung-Han Cheng
- Department of Urology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 704, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Hau-Chern Jan
- Department of Urology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 704, Taiwan, ROC; Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 704, Taiwan, ROC.
| | - Che-Yuan Hu
- Department of Urology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 704, Taiwan, ROC; Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 704, Taiwan, ROC.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Parte S, Kaur AB, Nimmakayala RK, Ogunleye AO, Chirravuri R, Vengoji R, Leon F, Nallasamy P, Rauth S, Alsafwani ZW, Lele S, Cox JL, Bhat I, Singh S, Batra SK, Ponnusamy MP. Cancer-Associated Fibroblast Induces Acinar-to-Ductal Cell Transdifferentiation and Pancreatic Cancer Initiation Via LAMA5/ITGA4 Axis. Gastroenterology 2024; 166:842-858.e5. [PMID: 38154529 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2023.12.018] [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: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is characterized by desmoplastic stroma surrounding most tumors. Activated stromal fibroblasts, namely cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), play a major role in PDAC progression. We analyzed whether CAFs influence acinar cells and impact PDAC initiation, that is, acinar-to-ductal metaplasia (ADM). ADM connection with PDAC pathophysiology is indicated, but not yet established. We hypothesized that CAF secretome might play a significant role in ADM in PDAC initiation. METHODS Mouse and human acinar cell organoids, acinar cells cocultured with CAFs and exposed to CAF-conditioned media, acinar cell explants, and CAF cocultures were examined by means of quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, RNA sequencing, immunoblotting, and confocal microscopy. Data from liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry analysis of CAF-conditioned medium and RNA sequencing data of acinar cells post-conditioned medium exposure were integrated using bioinformatics tools to identify the molecular mechanism for CAF-induced ADM. Using confocal microscopy, immunoblotting, and quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction analysis, we validated the depletion of a key signaling axis in the cell line, acinar explant coculture, and mouse cancer-associated fibroblasts (mCAFs). RESULTS A close association of acino-ductal markers (Ulex europaeus agglutinin 1, amylase, cytokeratin-19) and mCAFs (α-smooth muscle actin) in LSL-KrasG12D/+; LSL-Trp53R172H/+; Pdx1Cre (KPC) and LSL-KrasG12D/+; Pdx1Cre (KC) autochthonous progression tumor tissue was observed. Caerulein treatment-induced mCAFs increased cytokeratin-19 and decreased amylase in wild-type and KC pancreas. Likewise, acinar-mCAF cocultures revealed the induction of ductal transdifferentiation in cell line, acinar-organoid, and explant coculture formats in WT and KC mice pancreas. Proteomic and transcriptomic data integration revealed a novel laminin α5/integrinα4/stat3 axis responsible for CAF-mediated acinar-to-ductal cell transdifferentiation. CONCLUSIONS Results collectively suggest the first evidence for CAF-influenced acino-ductal phenotypic switchover, thus highlighting the tumor microenvironment role in pancreatic carcinogenesis inception.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seema Parte
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center at Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Annant B Kaur
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center at Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Rama Krishna Nimmakayala
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center at Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Ayoola O Ogunleye
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center at Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Ramakanth Chirravuri
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center at Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Raghupathy Vengoji
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center at Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Frank Leon
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center at Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Palanisamy Nallasamy
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center at Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Sanchita Rauth
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center at Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Zahraa Wajih Alsafwani
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center at Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Subodh Lele
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center at Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Jesse L Cox
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center at Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Ishfaq Bhat
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center at Omaha, Omaha, Nebraksa
| | - Shailender Singh
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center at Omaha, Omaha, Nebraksa
| | - Surinder K Batra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center at Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska; Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center at Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska.
| | - Moorthy P Ponnusamy
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center at Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska; Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center at Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Chen L, Hu M, Chen L, Peng Y, Zhang C, Wang X, Li X, Yao Y, Song Q, Li J, Pei H. Targeting O-GlcNAcylation in cancer therapeutic resistance: The sugar Saga continues. Cancer Lett 2024; 588:216742. [PMID: 38401884 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
O-linked-N-acetylglucosaminylation (O-GlcNAcylation), a dynamic post-translational modification (PTM), holds profound implications in controlling various cellular processes such as cell signaling, metabolism, and epigenetic regulation that influence cancer progression and therapeutic resistance. From the therapeutic perspective, O-GlcNAc modulates drug efflux, targeting and metabolism. By integrating signals from glucose, lipid, amino acid, and nucleotide metabolic pathways, O-GlcNAc acts as a nutrient sensor and transmits signals to exerts its function on genome stability, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), cell stemness, cell apoptosis, autophagy, cell cycle. O-GlcNAc also attends to tumor microenvironment (TME) and the immune response. At present, several strategies aiming at targeting O-GlcNAcylation are under mostly preclinical evaluation, where the newly developed O-GlcNAcylation inhibitors markedly enhance therapeutic efficacy. Here we systematically outline the mechanisms through which O-GlcNAcylation influences therapy resistance and deliberate on the prospects and challenges associated with targeting O-GlcNAcylation in future cancer treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lulu Chen
- Cancer Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, China; Department of Oncology, Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, 20057, USA.
| | - Mengxue Hu
- Cancer Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, China
| | - Luojun Chen
- Cancer Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, China
| | - Yihan Peng
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, 20057, USA
| | - Cai Zhang
- Cancer Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Cancer Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, China
| | - Xiangpan Li
- Cancer Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, China
| | - Yi Yao
- Cancer Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, China
| | - Qibin Song
- Cancer Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, China
| | - Jing Li
- Beijing Key Laboratory of DNA Damage Response and College of Life Sciences, Capital Normal University, Beijing, 100048, China.
| | - Huadong Pei
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, 20057, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Jackson CE, Green NH, English WR, Claeyssens F. The use of microphysiological systems to model metastatic cancer. Biofabrication 2024; 16:032002. [PMID: 38579739 DOI: 10.1088/1758-5090/ad3b70] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in the 21st century, with metastasis of cancer attributing to 90% of cancer-related deaths. Therefore, to improve patient outcomes there is a need for better preclinical models to increase the success of translating oncological therapies into the clinic. Current traditional staticin vitromodels lack a perfusable network which is critical to overcome the diffusional mass transfer limit to provide a mechanism for the exchange of essential nutrients and waste removal, and increase their physiological relevance. Furthermore, these models typically lack cellular heterogeneity and key components of the immune system and tumour microenvironment. This review explores rapidly developing strategies utilising perfusable microphysiological systems (MPS) for investigating cancer cell metastasis. In this review we initially outline the mechanisms of cancer metastasis, highlighting key steps and identifying the current gaps in our understanding of the metastatic cascade, exploring MPS focused on investigating the individual steps of the metastatic cascade before detailing the latest MPS which can investigate multiple components of the cascade. This review then focuses on the factors which can affect the performance of an MPS designed for cancer applications with a final discussion summarising the challenges and future directions for the use of MPS for cancer models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin E Jackson
- Materials Science and Engineering, The Kroto Research Institute, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S3 7HQ, United Kingdom
- Insigneo Institute for In Silico Medicine, The Pam Liversidge Building, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S1 3JD, United Kingdom
| | - Nicola H Green
- Materials Science and Engineering, The Kroto Research Institute, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S3 7HQ, United Kingdom
- Insigneo Institute for In Silico Medicine, The Pam Liversidge Building, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S1 3JD, United Kingdom
| | - William R English
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich NR3 7TJ, United Kingdom
| | - Frederik Claeyssens
- Materials Science and Engineering, The Kroto Research Institute, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S3 7HQ, United Kingdom
- Insigneo Institute for In Silico Medicine, The Pam Liversidge Building, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S1 3JD, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Geng S, Guo P, Wang J, Zhang Y, Shi Y, Li X, Cao M, Song Y, Zhang H, Zhang Z, Zhang K, Song H, Shi J, Liu J. Ultrasensitive Optical Detection and Elimination of Residual Microtumors with a Postoperative Implantable Hydrogel Sensor for Preventing Cancer Recurrence. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2307923. [PMID: 38174840 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202307923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
In vivo optical imaging of trace biomarkers in residual microtumors holds significant promise for cancer prognosis but poses a formidable challenge. Here, a novel hydrogel sensor is designed for ultrasensitive and specific imaging of the elusive biomarker. This hydrogel sensor seamlessly integrates a molecular beacon nanoprobe with fibroblasts, offering both high tissue retention capability and an impressive signal-to-noise ratio for imaging. Signal amplification is accomplished through exonuclease I-mediated biomarker recycling. The resulting hydrogel sensor sensitively detects the biomarker carcinoembryonic antigen with a detection limit of 1.8 pg mL-1 in test tubes. Moreover, it successfully identifies residual cancer nodules with a median diameter of less than 2 mm in mice bearing partially removed primary triple-negative breast carcinomas (4T1). Notably, this hydrogel sensor is proven effective for the sensitive diagnosis of invasive tumors in post-surgical mice with infiltrating 4T1 cells, leveraging the role of fibroblasts in locally enriching tumor cells. Furthermore, the residual microtumor is rapidly photothermal ablation by polydopamine-based nanoprobe under the guidance of visualization, achieving ≈100% suppression of tumor recurrence and lung metastasis. This work offers a promising alternative strategy for visually detecting residual microtumors, potentially enhancing the prognosis of cancer patients following surgical interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shizhen Geng
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Pengke Guo
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Jing Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Yunya Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Yaru Shi
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Xinling Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Mengnian Cao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Yutong Song
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Hongling Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
- Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Zhenzhong Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
- Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Kaixiang Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
- Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Haiwei Song
- Department of Biochemistry, National University of Singapore, SingaporeCity, 138673, Singapore
| | - Jinjin Shi
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
- Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Junjie Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
- Key Laboratory of Targeting Therapy and Diagnosis for Critical Diseases, Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies, Ministry of Education, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Roccatello D, Lan HY, Sciascia S, Sethi S, Fornoni A, Glassock R. From inflammation to renal fibrosis: A one-way road in autoimmunity? Autoimmun Rev 2024; 23:103466. [PMID: 37848157 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2023.103466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
Renal fibrosis is now recognized as a main determinant of renal pathology to include chronic kidney disease. Deposition of pathological matrix in the walls of glomerular capillaries, the interstitial space, and around arterioles predicts and contributes to the functional demise of the nephron and its surrounding vasculature. The recent identification of the major cell populations of fibroblast precursors in the kidney interstitium such as pericytes and tissue-resident mesenchymal stem cells, or bone-marrow-derived macrophages, and in the glomerulus such as podocytes, parietal epithelial and mesangial cells, has enabled the study of the fibrogenic process thought the lens of involved immunological pathways. Besides, a growing body of evidence is supporting the role of the lymphatic system in modulating the immunological response potentially leading to inflammation and ultimately renal damage. These notions have moved our understanding of renal fibrosis to be recognized as a clinical entity and new main player in autoimmunity, impacting directly the management of patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dario Roccatello
- University Center of Excellence on Nephrologic, Rheumatologic and Rare Diseases (ERK-net, ERN-Reconnect and RITA-ERN Member) with Nephrology and Dialysis Unit and Center of Immuno-Rheumatology and Rare Diseases (CMID), Coordinating Center of the Interregional Network for Rare Diseases of Piedmont and Aosta Valley (North-West Italy), San Giovanni Bosco Hub Hospital, ASL Città di Torino and Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences of the University of Turin, Turin, Italy.
| | - Hui-Yao Lan
- Department of Medicine & Therapeutics, and Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory on Immunological and Genetic Kidney Diseases,Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Savino Sciascia
- University Center of Excellence on Nephrologic, Rheumatologic and Rare Diseases (ERK-net, ERN-Reconnect and RITA-ERN Member) with Nephrology and Dialysis Unit and Center of Immuno-Rheumatology and Rare Diseases (CMID), Coordinating Center of the Interregional Network for Rare Diseases of Piedmont and Aosta Valley (North-West Italy), San Giovanni Bosco Hub Hospital, ASL Città di Torino and Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences of the University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Sanjeev Sethi
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Alessia Fornoni
- Peggy and Harold Katz Family Drug Discovery Center, Katz Family Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, USA
| | - Richard Glassock
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Crepaldi T, Gallo S, Comoglio PM. The MET Oncogene: Thirty Years of Insights into Molecular Mechanisms Driving Malignancy. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:448. [PMID: 38675409 PMCID: PMC11054789 DOI: 10.3390/ph17040448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The discovery and subsequent research on the MET oncogene's role in cancer onset and progression have illuminated crucial insights into the molecular mechanisms driving malignancy. The identification of MET as the hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) receptor has paved the path for characterizing the MET tyrosine kinase activation mechanism and its downstream signaling cascade. Over the past thirty years, research has established the importance of HGF/MET signaling in normal cellular processes, such as cell dissociation, migration, proliferation, and cell survival. Notably, genetic alterations that lead to the continuous activation of MET, known as constitutive activation, have been identified as oncogenic drivers in various cancers. The genetic lesions affecting MET, such as exon skipping, gene amplification, and gene rearrangements, provide valuable targets for therapeutic intervention. Moreover, the implications of MET as a resistance mechanism to targeted therapies emphasize the need for combination treatments that include MET inhibitors. The intriguing "flare effect" phenomenon, wherein MET inhibition can lead to post-treatment increases in cancer cell proliferation, underscores the dynamic nature of cancer therapeutics. In human tumors, increased protein expression often occurs without gene amplification. Various mechanisms may cause an overexpression: transcriptional upregulation induced by other oncogenes; environmental factors (such as hypoxia or radiation); or substances produced by the reactive stroma, such as inflammatory cytokines, pro-angiogenic factors, and even HGF itself. In conclusion, the journey to understanding MET's involvement in cancer onset and progression over the past three decades has not only deepened our knowledge, but has also paved the way for innovative therapeutic strategies. Selective pharmacological inactivation of MET stands as a promising avenue for achieving cancer remission, particularly in cases where MET alterations are the primary drivers of malignancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tiziana Crepaldi
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, Regione Gonzole 10, 10143 Orbassano, Italy; (T.C.); (S.G.)
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, SP142, Km 3.95, 10060 Candiolo, Italy
| | - Simona Gallo
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, Regione Gonzole 10, 10143 Orbassano, Italy; (T.C.); (S.G.)
- Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO-IRCCS, SP142, Km 3.95, 10060 Candiolo, Italy
| | - Paolo Maria Comoglio
- IFOM ETS—The AIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology, Via Adamello 16, 20139 Milano, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Sneider A, Liu Y, Starich B, Du W, Marar C, Faqih N, Ciotti GE, Kim JH, Krishnan S, Ibrahim S, Igboko M, Locke A, Lewis DM, Hong H, Karl M, Vij R, Russo GC, Nair P, Gómez-de-Mariscal E, Habibi M, Muñoz-Barrutia A, Gu L, Eisinger-Mathason TSK, Wirtz D. Small extracellular vesicles promote stiffness-mediated metastasis. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.07.01.545937. [PMID: 37425743 PMCID: PMC10327142 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.01.545937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
Tissue stiffness is a critical prognostic factor in breast cancer and is associated with metastatic progression. Here we show an alternative and complementary hypothesis of tumor progression whereby physiological matrix stiffness affects the quantity and protein cargo of small EVs produced by cancer cells, which in turn drive their metastasis. Primary patient breast tissue produces significantly more EVs from stiff tumor tissue than soft tumor adjacent tissue. EVs released by cancer cells on matrices that model human breast tumors (25 kPa; stiff EVs) feature increased adhesion molecule presentation (ITGα 2 β 1 , ITGα 6 β 4 , ITGα 6 β 1 , CD44) compared to EVs from softer normal tissue (0.5 kPa; soft EVs), which facilitates their binding to extracellular matrix (ECM) protein collagen IV, and a 3-fold increase in homing ability to distant organs in mice. In a zebrafish xenograft model, stiff EVs aid cancer cell dissemination through enhanced chemotaxis. Moreover, normal, resident lung fibroblasts treated with stiff and soft EVs change their gene expression profiles to adopt a cancer associated fibroblast (CAF) phenotype. These findings show that EV quantity, cargo, and function depend heavily on the mechanical properties of the extracellular microenvironment.
Collapse
|
18
|
Wang B, Song B, Li Y, Zhao Q, Tan B. Mapping spatial heterogeneity in gastric cancer microenvironment. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 172:116317. [PMID: 38382329 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116317] [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: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) is difficult to characterize due to its heterogeneity, and the complicated heterogeneity leads to the difficulty of precisely targeted therapy. The spatially heterogeneous composition plays a crucial role in GC onset, progression, treatment efficacy, and drug resistance. In recent years, the technological advancements in spatial omics has shifted our understanding of the tumor microenvironment (TME) from cancer-centered model to a dynamic and variant whole. In this review, we concentrated on the spatial heterogeneity within the primary lesions and between the primary and metastatic lesions of GC through the TME heterogeneity including the tertiary lymphoid structures (TLSs), the uniquely spatial organization. Meanwhile, the immune phenotype based on spatial distribution was also outlined. Furthermore, we recapitulated the clinical treatment in mediating spatial heterogeneity in GC, hoping to provide a systematic view of how spatial information could be integrated into anti-cancer immunity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bingyu Wang
- The Third Department of Surgery, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050011, China
| | - Buyun Song
- The Third Department of Surgery, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050011, China
| | - Yong Li
- The Third Department of Surgery, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050011, China
| | - Qun Zhao
- The Third Department of Surgery, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050011, China; Hebei Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Comprehensive Treatment of Gastric Cancer, Shijiazhuang 050011, China
| | - Bibo Tan
- The Third Department of Surgery, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050011, China; Hebei Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Comprehensive Treatment of Gastric Cancer, Shijiazhuang 050011, China.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Zhong L, Wang F, Liu D, Kuang W, Ji N, Li J, Zeng X, Li T, Dan H, Chen Q. Single-cell transcriptomics dissects premalignant progression in proliferative verrucous leukoplakia. Oral Dis 2024; 30:172-186. [PMID: 35950708 DOI: 10.1111/odi.14347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Proliferative verrucous leukoplakia (PVL) is characterized by a spectrum of clinicopathological features and a high risk of malignant transformation. In this study, we aimed to delineate the dynamic changes in molecular signature during PVL progression and identify the potential cell subtypes that play a key role in the premalignant evolution of PVL. METHODS We performed single-cell RNA sequencing on three biopsy samples from a large PVL lesion. These samples exhibited a histopathological continuum of PVL progression. RESULTS By analyzing the transcriptome profiles of 27,611 cells from these samples, we identified ten major cell lineages and revealed that cellular remodeling occurred during the progression of PVL lesions, including epithelial, stromal, and immune cells. Epithelial cells are shifted to tumorigenic states and secretory patterns at the premalignant stage. Immune cells showed growing immunosuppressive phenotypes during PVL progression. Remarkably, two novel cell subtypes INSR+ endothelial cells and ASPN+ fibroblasts, were discovered and may play vital roles in microenvironment remodeling, such as angiogenesis and stromal fibrosis, which are closely involved in malignant transformation. CONCLUSION Our work is the first to depict the cellular landscape of PVL and speculate that disease progression may be driven by functional remodeling of multiple cell subtypes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liang Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit of Oral Carcinogenesis and Management, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Fei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit of Oral Carcinogenesis and Management, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Dan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit of Oral Carcinogenesis and Management, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wenjing Kuang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit of Oral Carcinogenesis and Management, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ning Ji
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit of Oral Carcinogenesis and Management, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jing Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit of Oral Carcinogenesis and Management, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xin Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit of Oral Carcinogenesis and Management, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Taiwen Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit of Oral Carcinogenesis and Management, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hongxia Dan
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit of Oral Carcinogenesis and Management, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qianming Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Research Unit of Oral Carcinogenesis and Management, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Yang N, Hellevik T, Berzaghi R, Martinez‐Zubiaurre I. Radiation-induced effects on TGF-β and PDGF receptor signaling in cancer-associated fibroblasts. Cancer Rep (Hoboken) 2024; 7:e2018. [PMID: 38488488 PMCID: PMC10941573 DOI: 10.1002/cnr2.2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) consist of heterogeneous connective tissue cells and are often constituting the most abundant cell type in the tumor stroma. Radiation effects on tumor stromal components like CAFs in the context of radiation treatment is not well-described. AIM This study explores potential changes induced by ionizing radiation (IR) on platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)/PDGFRs and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β)/TGFβRs signaling systems in CAFs. METHODS AND RESULTS Experiments were carried out by employing primary cultures of human CAFs isolated from freshly resected non-small cell lung carcinoma tumor tissues. CAF cultures from nine donors were treated with one high (1 × 18 Gy) or three fractionated (3 × 6 Gy) radiation doses. Alterations in expression levels of TGFβRII and PDGFRα/β induced by IR were analyzed by western blots and flow cytometry. In the presence or absence of cognate ligands, receptor activation was studied in nonirradiated and irradiated CAFs. Radiation exposure did not exert changes in expression of PDGF or TGF-β receptors in CAFs. Additionally, IR alone was unable to trigger activation of either receptor. The radiation regimens tested did not affect PDGFRβ signaling in the presence of PDGF-BB. In contrast, signaling via pSmad2/3 and pSmad1/5/8 appeared to be down-regulated in irradiated CAFs after stimulation with TGF-β, as compared with controls. CONCLUSION Our data demonstrate that IR by itself is insufficient to induce measurable changes in PDGF or TGF-β receptor expression levels or to induce receptor activation in CAFs. However, in the presence of their respective ligands, exposure to radiation at certain doses appear to interfere with TGF-β receptor signaling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nannan Yang
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Health SciencesUiT The Arctic University of NorwayTromsøNorway
| | - Turid Hellevik
- Department of Radiation OncologyUniversity Hospital of North NorwayTromsøNorway
| | - Rodrigo Berzaghi
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health SciencesUiT The Arctic University of NorwayTromsøNorway
| | - Inigo Martinez‐Zubiaurre
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health SciencesUiT The Arctic University of NorwayTromsøNorway
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Zhang Y, Tang L, Liu H, Cheng Y. The Multiple Functions of HB-EGF in Female Reproduction and Related Cancer: Molecular Mechanisms and Targeting Strategies. Reprod Sci 2024:10.1007/s43032-024-01454-6. [PMID: 38424408 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-024-01454-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Heparin-binding growth factor (HB-EGF) is a member of the epidermal growth factor (EGF) ligand family which has a crucial role in women's health. However, there is a lack of comprehensive review to summarize the significance of HB-EGF. Therefore, this work first described the expression patterns of HB-EGF in the endometrium and ovary of different species and gestational time. Then, the focus was on exploring how it promotes the successful implantation and regulates the process of decidualization and the function of ovarian granulosa cells as an intermediate molecule. Otherwise, we also focused on the clinical and prognostic significance of HB-EGF in female-related cancers (including ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, and endometrial cancer) and breast cancer. Lastly, the article also summarizes the current drugs targeting HB-EGF in the treatment of ovarian cancer and breast cancer. Overall, these studies found that the expression of HB-EGF in the endometrium is spatiotemporal and species-specific. And it mediates the dialogue between the blastocyst and endometrium, promoting synchronous development of the blastocyst and endometrium as an intermediate molecule. HB-EGF may serve as a potentially valuable prognostic clinical indicator in tumors. And the specific inhibitor of HB-EGF (CRM197) has a certain anti-tumor ability, which can exert synergistic anti-tumor effects with conventional chemotherapy drugs. However, it also suggests that more research is needed in the future to elucidate its specific mechanisms and to accommodate clinical studies with a larger sample size to clarify its clinical value.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuwei Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 99 Zhang Zhidong Road, Wuhan, Hubei, 430060, People's Republic of China
| | - Lujia Tang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 99 Zhang Zhidong Road, Wuhan, Hubei, 430060, People's Republic of China
| | - Hua Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 99 Zhang Zhidong Road, Wuhan, Hubei, 430060, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yanxiang Cheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 99 Zhang Zhidong Road, Wuhan, Hubei, 430060, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Zhang X, Li P, Gan Y, Xiang S, Gu L, Zhou J, Zhou X, Wu P, Zhang B, Deng D. Driving effect of P16 methylation on telomerase reverse transcriptase-mediated immortalization and transformation of normal human fibroblasts. Chin Med J (Engl) 2024:00029330-990000000-00975. [PMID: 38420748 DOI: 10.1097/cm9.0000000000003004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND P16 inactivation is frequently accompanied by telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) amplification in human cancer genomes. P16 inactivation by DNA methylation often occurs automatically during immortalization of normal cells by TERT. However, direct evidence remains to be obtained to support the causal effect of epigenetic changes, such as P16 methylation, on cancer development. This study aimed to provide experimental evidence that P16 methylation directly drives cancer development. METHODS A zinc finger protein-based P16-specific DNA methyltransferase (P16-Dnmt) vector containing a "Tet-On" switch was used to induce extensive methylation of P16 CpG islands in normal human fibroblast CCD-18Co cells. Battery assays were used to evaluate cell immortalization and transformation throughout their lifespan. Cell subcloning and DNA barcoding were used to track the diversity of cell evolution. RESULTS Leaking P16-Dnmt expression (without doxycycline-induction) could specifically inactivate P16 expression by DNA methylation. P16 methylation only promoted proliferation and prolonged lifespan but did not induce immortalization of CCD-18Co cells. Notably, cell immortalization, loss of contact inhibition, and anchorage-independent growth were always prevalent in P16-Dnmt&TERT cells, indicating cell transformation. In contrast, almost all TERT cells died in the replicative crisis. Only a few TERT cells recovered from the crisis, in which spontaneous P16 inactivation by DNA methylation occurred. Furthermore, the subclone formation capacity of P16-Dnmt&TERT cells was two-fold that of TERT cells. DNA barcoding analysis showed that the diversity of the P16-Dnmt&TERT cell population was much greater than that of the TERT cell population. CONCLUSION P16 methylation drives TERT-mediated immortalization and transformation of normal human cells that may contribute to cancer development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xuehong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (MOE/Beijing), Division of Etiology, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Paiyun Li
- Division of Etiology, Beijing Cancer Hospital, Beijing 100142, China
- Radiation Oncology Department, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Ying Gan
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (MOE/Beijing), Division of Etiology, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Shengyan Xiang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (MOE/Beijing), Division of Etiology, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Liankun Gu
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (MOE/Beijing), Division of Etiology, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Jing Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (MOE/Beijing), Division of Etiology, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Xiaorui Zhou
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Peihuang Wu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Baozhen Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (MOE/Beijing), Division of Etiology, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing 100142, China
- Division of Etiology, Beijing Cancer Hospital, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Dajun Deng
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (MOE/Beijing), Division of Etiology, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Jiang B, Xiao S, Zhang S, Xiao F. The miR-1290/OGN axis in ovarian cancer-associated fibroblasts modulates cancer cell proliferation and invasion. J Ovarian Res 2024; 17:52. [PMID: 38402185 PMCID: PMC10893657 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-024-01364-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite receiving first-line treatment, ovarian cancer patients continue to experience a high rate of recurrence; nearly all women with ovarian cancer develop chemoresistance and succumb to the disease. In this study, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and normal fibroblasts (NFs) were isolated from tumor-containing and normal omenta, respectively, and the downregulation of osteoglycin (OGN) in CAFs was observed. OGN overexpression in CAFs significantly inhibited ovarian cancer cell viability, DNA synthesis, and cell invasion. OGN overexpression also changed epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers and promoted mTOR and Akt phosphorylation in ovarian cancer cells. miR-1290 targeted OGN and inhibited OGN expression. miR-1290 overexpression in CAFs significantly promoted ovarian cancer cell viability, DNA synthesis, and cell invasion. Moreover, miR-1290 overexpression in CAFs also changed EMT markers and promoted mTOR and Akt phosphorylation within ovarian carcinoma cells. Finally, when ovarian cancer cells in a conditioned medium derived from CAFs co-transduced with miR-1290 mimics and OGN-OE were cultured, the effects of miR-1290 overexpression were partially reversed by OGN overexpression. In nude mouse xenograft tumor models, OGN overexpression in CAFs suppressed tumor growth, whereas miR-1290 overexpression in CAFs increased tumor growth. In conclusion, a miRNA/mRNA axis in ovarian cancer CAFs modulating the proliferative and invasive abilities of ovarian cancer cells, possibly via the Akt/mTOR pathway, was demonstrated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Biyao Jiang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, NO.138 Tongzipo Road, Yuelu District, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, China
| | - Songshu Xiao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, NO.138 Tongzipo Road, Yuelu District, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, China
| | - Shan Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, NO.138 Tongzipo Road, Yuelu District, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, China
| | - Fang Xiao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, NO.138 Tongzipo Road, Yuelu District, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, China.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Joseph AM, Al Aiyan A, Al-Ramadi B, Singh SK, Kishore U. Innate and adaptive immune-directed tumour microenvironment in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1323198. [PMID: 38384463 PMCID: PMC10879611 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1323198] [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: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
One of the most deadly and aggressive cancers in the world, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), typically manifests at an advanced stage. PDAC is becoming more common, and by the year 2030, it is expected to overtake lung cancer as the second greatest cause of cancer-related death. The poor prognosis can be attributed to a number of factors, including difficulties in early identification, a poor probability of curative radical resection, limited response to chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and its immunotherapy resistance. Furthermore, an extensive desmoplastic stroma that surrounds PDAC forms a mechanical barrier that prevents vascularization and promotes poor immune cell penetration. Phenotypic heterogeneity, drug resistance, and immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment are the main causes of PDAC aggressiveness. There is a complex and dynamic interaction between tumor cells in PDAC with stromal cells within the tumour immune microenvironment. The immune suppressive microenvironment that promotes PDAC aggressiveness is contributed by a range of cellular and humoral factors, which itself are modulated by the cancer. In this review, we describe the role of innate and adaptive immune cells, complex tumor microenvironment in PDAC, humoral factors, innate immune-mediated therapeutic advances, and recent clinical trials in PDAC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ann Mary Joseph
- Department of Veterinary Medicine (CAVM), United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ahmad Al Aiyan
- Department of Veterinary Medicine (CAVM), United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Basel Al-Ramadi
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
- Zayed Center for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
- ASPIRE Precision Medicine Research Institute Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Shiv K. Singh
- Department of Gastroenterology and Gastrointestinal Oncology, University Medical Center, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Uday Kishore
- Department of Veterinary Medicine (CAVM), United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
- Zayed Center for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Wang W, Li T, Xie Z, Zhao J, Zhang Y, Ruan Y, Han B. Integrating single-cell and bulk RNA sequencing data unveils antigen presentation and process-related CAFS and establishes a predictive signature in prostate cancer. J Transl Med 2024; 22:57. [PMID: 38221616 PMCID: PMC10789066 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04807-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are heterogeneous and can influence the progression of prostate cancer in multiple ways; however, their capacity to present and process antigens in PRAD has not been investigated. In this study, antigen presentation and process-related CAFs (APPCAFs) were identified using bioinformatics, and the clinical implications of APPCAF-related signatures in PRAD were investigated. METHODS SMART technology was used to sequence the transcriptome of primary CAFs isolated from patients undergoing different treatments. Differential expression gene (DEG) screening was conducted. A CD4 + T-cell early activation assay was used to assess the activation degree of CD4 + T cells. The datasets of PRAD were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database and NCBI Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), and the list of 431 antigen presentation and process-related genes was obtained from the InnateDB database. Subsequently, APP-related CAFs were identified by nonnegative matrix factorization (NMF) based on a single-cell seq (scRNA) matrix. GSVA functional enrichment analyses were performed to depict the biological functions. A risk signature based on APPCAF-related genes (APPCAFRS) was developed by least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression analysis, and the independence of the risk score as a prognostic factor was evaluated by univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses. Furthermore, a biochemical recurrence-free survival (BCRFS)-related nomogram was established, and immune-related characteristics were assessed using the ssGSEA function. The immune treatment response in PRAD was further analyzed by the Tumor Immune Dysfunction and Exclusion (TIDE) tool. The expression levels of hub genes in APPCAFRS were verified in cell models. RESULTS There were 134 upregulated and 147 downregulated genes, totaling 281 differentially expressed genes among the primary CAFs. The functions and pathways of 147 downregulated DEGs were significantly enriched in antigen processing and presentation processes, MHC class II protein complex and transport vesicle, MHC class II protein complex binding, and intestinal immune network for IgA production. Androgen withdrawal diminished the activation effect of CAFs on T cells. NMF clustering of CAFs was performed by APPRGs, and pseudotime analysis yielded the antigen presentation and process-related CAF subtype CTSK + MRC2 + CAF-C1. CTSK + MRC2 + CAF-C1 cells exhibited ligand‒receptor connections with epithelial cells and T cells. Additionally, we found a strong association between CTSK + MRC2 + CAF-C1 cells and inflammatory CAFs. Through differential gene expression analysis of the CTSK + MRC2 + CAF-C1 and NoneAPP-CAF-C2 subgroups, 55 significant DEGs were identified, namely, APPCAFRGs. Based on the expression profiles of APPCAFRGs, we divided the TCGA-PRAD cohort into two clusters using NMF consistent cluster analysis, with the genetic coefficient serving as the evaluation index. Four APPCAFRGs, THBS2, DPT, COL5A1, and MARCKS, were used to develop a prognostic signature capable of predicting BCR occurrence in PRAD patients. Subsequently, a nomogram with stability and accuracy in predicting BCR was constructed based on Gleason grade (p = n.s.), PSA (p < 0.001), T stage (p < 0.05), and risk score (p < 0.01). The analysis of immune infiltration showed a positive correlation between the abundance of resting memory CD4 + T cells, M1 macrophages, resting dendritic cells, and the risk score. In addition, the mRNA expression levels of THBS2, DPT, COL5A1, and MARCKS in the cell models were consistent with the results of the bioinformatics analysis. CONCLUSIONS APPCAFRS based on four potential APPCAFRGs was developed, and their interaction with the immune microenvironment may play a crucial role in the progression to castration resistance of PRAD. This novel approach provides valuable insights into the pathogenesis of PRAD and offers unexplored targets for future research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenhao Wang
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200080, China
| | - Tiewen Li
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200080, China
| | - Zhiwen Xie
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200080, China
| | - Jing Zhao
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200080, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200080, China
| | - Yuan Ruan
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200080, China.
| | - Bangmin Han
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200080, China.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Rasti Boroojeni F, Naeimipour S, Lifwergren P, Abrahamsson A, Dabrosin C, Selegård R, Aili D. Proteolytic remodeling of 3D bioprinted tumor microenvironments. Biofabrication 2024; 16:025002. [PMID: 38128125 DOI: 10.1088/1758-5090/ad17d1] [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: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
In native tissue, remodeling of the pericellular space is essential for cellular activities and is mediated by tightly regulated proteases. Protease activity is dysregulated in many diseases, including many forms of cancer. Increased proteolytic activity is directly linked to tumor invasion into stroma, metastasis, and angiogenesis as well as all other hallmarks of cancer. Here we show a strategy for 3D bioprinting of breast cancer models using well-defined protease degradable hydrogels that can facilitate exploration of the multifaceted roles of proteolytic extracellular matrix remodeling in tumor progression. We designed a set of bicyclo[6.1.0]nonyne functionalized hyaluronan (HA)-based bioinks cross-linked by azide-modified poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) or matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) degradable azide-functionalized peptides. Bioprinted structures combining PEG and peptide-based hydrogels were proteolytically degraded with spatial selectivity, leaving non-degradable features intact. Bioprinting of tumor-mimicking microenvironments using bioinks comprising human breast cancer cells (MCF-7) and fibroblast in hydrogels with different susceptibilities to proteolytic degradation shows that MCF-7 proliferation and spheroid size were significantly increased in protease degradable hydrogel compartments, but only in the presence of fibroblasts. In the absence of fibroblasts in the stromal compartment, cancer cell proliferation was reduced and did not differ between degradable and nondegradable hydrogels. The interactions between spatially separated fibroblasts and MCF-7 cells consequently resulted in protease-mediated remodeling of the bioprinted structures and a significant increase in cancer cell spheroid size, highlighting the close interplay between cancer cells and stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment and the influence of proteases in tumor progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Rasti Boroojeni
- Laboratory of Molecular Materials, Division of Biophysics and Bioengineering, Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, 581 83 Linköping, Sweden
| | - Sajjad Naeimipour
- Laboratory of Molecular Materials, Division of Biophysics and Bioengineering, Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, 581 83 Linköping, Sweden
| | - Philip Lifwergren
- Laboratory of Molecular Materials, Division of Biophysics and Bioengineering, Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, 581 83 Linköping, Sweden
| | - Annelie Abrahamsson
- Department of Oncology and Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Charlotta Dabrosin
- Department of Oncology and Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Robert Selegård
- Laboratory of Molecular Materials, Division of Biophysics and Bioengineering, Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, 581 83 Linköping, Sweden
| | - Daniel Aili
- Laboratory of Molecular Materials, Division of Biophysics and Bioengineering, Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, 581 83 Linköping, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Menéndez V, Solórzano JL, García-Cosío M, Alonso-Alonso R, Rodríguez M, Cereceda L, Fernández S, Díaz E, Montalbán C, Estévez M, Piris MA, García JF. Immune and stromal transcriptional patterns that influence the outcome of classic Hodgkin lymphoma. Sci Rep 2024; 14:710. [PMID: 38184757 PMCID: PMC10771441 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-51376-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Classic Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL) is characterized by a rich immune microenvironment as the main tumor component. It involves a broad range of cell populations, which are largely unexplored, even though they are known to be essential for growth and survival of Hodgkin and Reed-Sternberg cells. We profiled the gene expression of 25 FFPE cHL samples using NanoString technology and resolved their microenvironment compositions using cell-deconvolution tools, thereby generating patient-specific signatures. The results confirm individual immune fingerprints and recognize multiple clusters enriched in refractory patients, highlighting the relevance of: (1) the composition of immune cells and their functional status, including myeloid cell populations (M1-like, M2-like, plasmacytoid dendritic cells, myeloid-derived suppressor cells, etc.), CD4-positive T cells (exhausted, regulatory, Th17, etc.), cytotoxic CD8 T and natural killer cells; (2) the balance between inflammatory signatures (such as IL6, TNF, IFN-γ/TGF-β) and MHC-I/MHC-II molecules; and (3) several cells, pathways and genes related to the stroma and extracellular matrix remodeling. A validation model combining relevant immune and stromal signatures identifies patients with unfavorable outcomes, producing the same results in an independent cHL series. Our results reveal the heterogeneity of immune responses among patients, confirm previous findings, and identify new functional phenotypes of prognostic and predictive utility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Menéndez
- Translational Research, Fundación MD Anderson International España. Madrid, 28033, Madrid, Spain
| | - José L Solórzano
- Translational Research, Fundación MD Anderson International España. Madrid, 28033, Madrid, Spain
- Pathology Department, MD Anderson Cancer Center Madrid, C/Arturo Soria, 270, 28033, Madrid, Spain
| | - Mónica García-Cosío
- Pathology Department, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal, 28034, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ruth Alonso-Alonso
- Pathology Department, IIS Hospital Universitario Fundación Jiménez Díaz, 28040, Madrid, Spain
- Center for Biomedical Network Research on Cancer (CIBERONC), ISCIII, 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Rodríguez
- Pathology Department, IIS Hospital Universitario Fundación Jiménez Díaz, 28040, Madrid, Spain
- Center for Biomedical Network Research on Cancer (CIBERONC), ISCIII, 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | - Laura Cereceda
- Translational Research, Fundación MD Anderson International España. Madrid, 28033, Madrid, Spain
- Pathology Department, MD Anderson Cancer Center Madrid, C/Arturo Soria, 270, 28033, Madrid, Spain
| | - Sara Fernández
- Translational Research, Fundación MD Anderson International España. Madrid, 28033, Madrid, Spain
- Pathology Department, MD Anderson Cancer Center Madrid, C/Arturo Soria, 270, 28033, Madrid, Spain
| | - Eva Díaz
- Translational Research, Fundación MD Anderson International España. Madrid, 28033, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carlos Montalbán
- Hematology Department, MD Anderson Cancer Center Madrid, 28033, Madrid, Spain
| | - Mónica Estévez
- Hematology Department, MD Anderson Cancer Center Madrid, 28033, Madrid, Spain
| | - Miguel A Piris
- Pathology Department, IIS Hospital Universitario Fundación Jiménez Díaz, 28040, Madrid, Spain
- Center for Biomedical Network Research on Cancer (CIBERONC), ISCIII, 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan F García
- Translational Research, Fundación MD Anderson International España. Madrid, 28033, Madrid, Spain.
- Pathology Department, MD Anderson Cancer Center Madrid, C/Arturo Soria, 270, 28033, Madrid, Spain.
- Center for Biomedical Network Research on Cancer (CIBERONC), ISCIII, 28029, Madrid, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Sun L, Jiang Y, Tan H, Liang R. Collagen and derivatives-based materials as substrates for the establishment of glioblastoma organoids. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 254:128018. [PMID: 37967599 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.128018] [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: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023]
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is a common primary brain malignancy known for its ability to invade the brain, resistance to chemotherapy and radiotherapy, tendency to recur frequently, and unfavorable prognosis. Attempts have been undertaken to create 2D and 3D models, such as glioblastoma organoids (GBOs), to recapitulate the glioma microenvironment, explore tumor biology, and develop efficient therapies. However, these models have limitations and are unable to fully recapitulate the complex networks formed by the glioma microenvironment that promote tumor cell growth, invasion, treatment resistance, and immune escape. Therefore, it is necessary to develop advanced experimental models that could better simulate clinical physiology. Here, we review recent advances in natural biomaterials (mainly focus on collagen and its derivatives)-based GBO models, as in vitro experimental platforms to simulate GBM tumor biology and response to tested drugs. Special attention will be given to 3D models that use collagen, gelatin, further modified derivatives, and composite biomaterials (e.g., with other natural or synthetic polymers) as substrates. Application of these collagen/derivatives-constructed GBOs incorporate the physical as well as chemical characteristics of the GBM microenvironment. A perspective on future research is given in terms of current issues. Generally, natural materials based on collagen/derivatives (monomers or composites) are expected to enrich the toolbox of GBO modeling substrates and potentially help to overcome the limitations of existing models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lu Sun
- Department of Targeting Therapy & Immunology; Department of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yuelin Jiang
- West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
| | - Hong Tan
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Polymer Materials Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China.
| | - Ruichao Liang
- Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Wang T, Ding G, Wang X, Cui Y, Ma X, Ma J, Wu J. Expression of EPB41L2 in Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts: Prognostic Implications for Bladder Cancer and Response to Immunotherapy. Arch Med Res 2024; 55:102927. [PMID: 38154234 DOI: 10.1016/j.arcmed.2023.102927] [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: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immunotherapy response in patients with bladder cancer (BLCA) treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) is variable. The accurate evaluation of immunotherapy efficacy may be facilitated by the tumor microenvironment (TME). Erythrocyte membrane protein band 4.1 like 2 (EPB41L2), a cytoskeletal protein with a regulatory role in the TME was intensively investigated to determine its biological characterization, clinical relevance, and predictive value for immunotherapy in BLCA. METHODS Comprehensive bioinformatics and statistical analyses were conducted to examine gene expression profile, TME components, immune contexture, molecular features, and prediction of immunotherapy response. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) validated the results of the bioinformatics analysis. Association between immune checkpoint genes (ICGs) and EPB41L2-based risk stratification was validated in the IMvigor210 cohort, and their association with ICI response was assessed. RESULTS EPB41L2 mRNA levels were decreased in BLCA compared to normal tissue. IHC showed reduced EPB41L2 staining intensity in early BLCA tissue. Nevertheless, elevated EPB41L2 expression was observed in cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) with higher histological grade and pathological stage. High EPB41L2 expression served as a poor prognostic factor for BLCA. Single-cell RNA-seq and further analyses revealed that EPB41L2 was mainly expressed in CAFs and promoted TME remodeling. EPB41L2low/ICGshigh patients showed greater benefit from immunotherapy. Gene mutation analysis revealed a close relationship between EPB41L2 and the frequency of oncogenic mutations, including TP53 and FGFR3. CONCLUSION Comprehensive analysis and IHC confirmed the upregulation of EPB41L2 in BLCA CAFs and its association with TME remodeling. EPB41L2 and ICG expression were identified as combinatorial biomarkers to predict the response to immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tianqi Wang
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong, China
| | - Guixin Ding
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong, China
| | - Xiaoyu Wang
- Department of Neurology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuanshan Cui
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong, China
| | - Xiaohong Ma
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong, China
| | - Jian Ma
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong, China
| | - Jitao Wu
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai, Shandong, China.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Emon B, Joy MSH, Lalonde L, Ghrayeb A, Doha U, Ladehoff L, Brockstein R, Saengow C, Ewoldt RH, Saif MTA. Nuclear deformation regulates YAP dynamics in cancer associated fibroblasts. Acta Biomater 2024; 173:93-108. [PMID: 37977292 PMCID: PMC10848212 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.11.015] [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: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Cells cultured on stiff 2D substrates exert high intracellular force, resulting in mechanical deformation of their nuclei. This nuclear deformation (ND) plays a crucial role in the transport of Yes Associated Protein (YAP) from the cytoplasm to the nucleus. However, cells in vivo are in soft 3D environment with potentially much lower intracellular forces. Whether and how cells may deform their nuclei in 3D for YAP localization remains unclear. Here, by culturing human colon cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs) on 2D, 2.5D, and 3D substrates, we differentiated the effects of stiffness, force, and ND on YAP localization. We found that nuclear translocation of YAP depends on the degree of ND irrespective of dimensionality, stiffness and total force. ND induced by the perinuclear force, not the total force, and nuclear membrane curvature correlate strongly with YAP activation. Immunostained slices of human tumors further supported the association between ND and YAP nuclear localization, suggesting ND as a potential biomarker for YAP activation in tumors. Additionally, we conducted quantitative analysis of the force dynamics of CAFs on 2D substrates to construct a stochastic model of YAP kinetics. This model revealed that the probability of YAP nuclear translocation, as well as the residence time in the nucleus follow a power law. This study provides valuable insights into the regulatory mechanisms governing YAP dynamics and highlights the significance of threshold activation in YAP localization. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Yes Associated Protein (YAP), a transcription cofactor, has been identified as one of the drivers of cancer progression. High tumor stiffness is attributed to driving YAP to the nucleus, wherein it activates pro-metastatic genes. Here we show, using cancer associated fibroblasts, that YAP translocation to the nucleus depends on the degree of nuclear deformation, irrespective of stiffness. We also identified that perinuclear force induced membrane curvature correlates strongly with YAP nuclear transport. A novel stochastic model of YAP kinetics unveiled a power law relationship between the activation threshold and persistence time of YAP in the nucleus. Overall, this study provides novel insights into the regulatory mechanisms governing YAP dynamics and the probability of activation that is of immense clinical significance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Chaimongkol Saengow
- Mechanical Science & Engineering; Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
| | - Randy H Ewoldt
- Mechanical Science & Engineering; Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
| | - M Taher A Saif
- Mechanical Science & Engineering; Bioengineering; Cancer Center at Illinois.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Baruah P, Marshall J, Jones PN, Major T, Pucino V, O'Neil JD, Nefla M, McGettrick H, Monksfield P, Irving R, Buckley CD. Fibroblasts Derived From Vestibular Schwannoma Express Protumorogenic Markers. Otol Neurotol 2023; 44:e755-e765. [PMID: 37733967 DOI: 10.1097/mao.0000000000004011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Vestibular schwannomas (VSs), despite being histologically benign, cause significant morbidity because of their challenging intracranial location and the propensity for growth. The role of the stroma and particularly fibroblasts, in the progression of VS, is not completely understood. This study examines the profile of fibroblasts in VS. METHODS Seventeen patients undergoing surgical excision of VS were recruited into the study. Reverse transcription with quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was performed on VS tissue samples and fibroblast-associated molecules examined. Immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry in VS tissue were used to study the expression of fibroblast markers CD90 and podoplanin in situ. Fibroblast cultures were established from VS, and RT-qPCR analysis was performed on a panel of fibroblast markers on VS and control tissue fibroblasts. RESULTS Several fibroblast-associated molecules including members of galectin family and matrix metalloproteinases were found to be expressed in VS tissue on RT-qPCR analysis. In situ, expression of CD90 and podoplanin was observed in VS tissue both on immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence. RT-qPCR analysis of fibroblasts from VS and control vestibular neuroepithelium (NE) showed a higher expression of several molecules of the galectin and matrix metalloproteinases family on VS fibroblasts compared with NE fibroblasts. CONCLUSION This work examines fibroblasts from VS and shows qualitative differences from NE fibroblasts on RT-qPCR. Further understanding of the fibroblast function in the progression of VS will potentially unveil new targets to manage VS growth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Jennifer Marshall
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Philip N Jones
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Triin Major
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Valentina Pucino
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - John D O'Neil
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Meriam Nefla
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Helen McGettrick
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Peter Monksfield
- Department of ENT, University Hospitals of Birmingham NHS Trust, Birmingham
| | - Richard Irving
- Department of ENT, University Hospitals of Birmingham NHS Trust, Birmingham
| | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Katz MHG, Petroni GR, Bauer T, Reilley MJ, Wolpin BM, Stucky CC, Bekaii-Saab TS, Elias R, Merchant N, Dias Costa A, Lenehan P, Cardot-Ruffino V, Rodig S, Pfaff K, Dougan SK, Nowak JA, Varadhachary GR, Slingluff CL, Rahma O. Multicenter randomized controlled trial of neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy alone or in combination with pembrolizumab in patients with resectable or borderline resectable pancreatic adenocarcinoma. J Immunother Cancer 2023; 11:e007586. [PMID: 38040420 PMCID: PMC10693876 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2023-007586] [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] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a challenging target for immunotherapy because it has an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy can increase tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) density, which may predict overall survival (OS). We hypothesized that adding programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) blockade to chemoradiotherapy would be well tolerated and increase TILs among patients with localized PDAC. METHODS Patients were randomized 2:1 to Arm A (receiving pembrolizumab plus chemoradiotherapy (capecitabine and external beam radiation)) or Arm B (receiving chemoradiotherapy alone) before anticipated pancreatectomy. Primary endpoints were (1) incidence and severity of adverse events during neoadjuvant therapy and (2) density of TILs in resected tumor specimens. TIL density was assessed using multiplexed immunofluorescence histologic examination. RESULTS Thirty-seven patients were randomized to Arms A (n=24) and B (n=13). Grade ≥3 adverse events related to neoadjuvant treatment were experienced by 9 (38%) and 4 (31%) patients in Arms A and B, respectively, with one patient experiencing dose-limiting toxicity in Arm A. Seventeen (71%) and 7 (54%) patients in Arms A and B, respectively, underwent pancreatectomy. Median CD8+ T-cell densities in Arms A and B were 67.4 (IQR: 39.2-141.8) and 37.9 (IQR: 22.9-173.4) cells/mm2, respectively. Arms showed no noticeable differences in density of CD8+Ki67+, CD4+, or CD4+FOXP3+ regulatory T cells; M1-like and M2-like macrophages; or granulocytes. Median OS durations were 27.8 (95% CI: 17.1 to NR) and 24.3 (95% CI: 12.6 to NR) months for Arms A and B, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Adding pembrolizumab to neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy was safe. However, no convincing effect on CD8+ TILs was observed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew H G Katz
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Gina R Petroni
- Division of Translational Research and Applied Statistics, Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Todd Bauer
- Department of Surgery, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Matthew J Reilley
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Brian M Wolpin
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Tanios S Bekaii-Saab
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clin, Phoenix, Arizona, USA
| | - Rawad Elias
- Hartford HealthCare Cancer Institute, Plainville, Connecticut, USA
| | - Nipun Merchant
- Department of Surgery, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida, USA
| | - Andressa Dias Costa
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Patrick Lenehan
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Victoire Cardot-Ruffino
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Scott Rodig
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kathleen Pfaff
- Center for Immuno-Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Stephanie K Dougan
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jonathan Andrew Nowak
- Department of Cancer Immunology and Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Gauri R Varadhachary
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Craig L Slingluff
- Department of Surgery, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Osama Rahma
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Morcos CA, Khattab SN, Haiba NS, Bassily RW, Abu-Serie MM, Teleb M. Battling colorectal cancer via s-triazine-based MMP-10/13 inhibitors armed with electrophilic warheads for concomitant ferroptosis induction; the first-in-class dual-acting agents. Bioorg Chem 2023; 141:106839. [PMID: 37703744 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2023.106839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
There is an increasing interest in halting CRC by combining ferroptosis with other forms of tumor cell death. However, ferroptosis induction is seldom studied in tandem with inhibiting MMPs. A combination that is expected to enhance the therapeutic outcome based on mechanistic ferroptosis studies highlighting the interplay with MMPs, especially MMP-13 associated with CRC metastasis and poor prognosis. Herein, we report new hybrid triazines capable of simultaneous MMP-10/13 inhibition and ferroptosis induction bridging the gap between their anticancer potentials. The MMP-10/13 inhibitory component of the scaffold was based on the non-hydroxamate model inhibitors. s-Triazine was rationalized as the core inspired by altretamine, an FDA-approved ferroptosis inducer. The ferroptosis pharmacophores were then installed as Michael acceptors via triazole-based spacers. The electrophilic reactivity was tuned by incorporating cyano and/or substituted phenyl groups influencing their electronic and steric properties and enriching the SAR study. Initial screening revealed the outstanding cytotoxicity profiles of the nitrophenyl-tethered chalcone 5e and the cyanoacrylohydrazides bearing p-fluorophenyl 9b and p-bromophenyl 9d appendages. 9b and 9d surpassed NNGH against MMP-10 and -13, especially 9d (IC50 = 0.16 μM). Ferroptosis studies proved that 9d depleted GSH in HCT-116 cells by a relative fold decrement of 0.81 with modest direct GPX4 inhibition, thus inducing lipid peroxidation, the hallmark of ferroptosis, by 1.32 relative fold increment. Docking presumed that 9d could bind to the MMP-10 S1' pocket and active site His221, extend through the MMP-13 hydrophobic pocket, and interact covalently with the GPX4 catalytic selenocysteine. 9d complexed with ferrous oxide nanoparticles was 7.5 folds more cytotoxic than its free precursor against HCT-116 cells. The complex-induced intracellular iron overload, depleted GSH with a relative fold decrement of 0.12, consequently triggering lipid peroxidation and ferroptosis by a 3.94 relative fold increment. Collectively, 9d could be a lead for tuning MMPs selectivity and ferroptosis induction potential to maximize the benefit of such a combination.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christine A Morcos
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21321, Egypt
| | - Sherine N Khattab
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21321, Egypt.
| | - Nesreen S Haiba
- Department of Physics and Chemistry, Faculty of Education, Alexandria University, Egypt
| | - Rafik W Bassily
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21321, Egypt
| | - Marwa M Abu-Serie
- Medical Biotechnology Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Institute, City of Scientific Research and Technological Applications (SRTA-City), Egypt.
| | - Mohamed Teleb
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21521, Egypt; Cancer Nanotechnology Research Laboratory (CNRL), Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Long C, Song Y, Pan Y, Wu C. Identification of molecular subtypes and a risk model based on inflammation-related genes in patients with low grade glioma. Heliyon 2023; 9:e22429. [PMID: 38046156 PMCID: PMC10686866 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e22429] [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: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Lower grade gliomas (LGGs) exhibit invasiveness and heterogeneity as distinguishing features. The outcome of patients with LGG differs greatly. Recently, more and more studies have suggested that infiltrating inflammation cells and inflammation-related genes (IRGs) play an essential role in tumorigenesis, prognosis, and treatment responses. Nevertheless, the role of IRGs in LGG remains unclear. In The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) cohort, we conducted a thorough examination of the predictive significance of IRGs and identified 245 IRGs that correlated with the clinical prognosis of individuals diagnosed with LGG. Based on unsupervised cluster analysis, we identified two inflammation-associated molecular clusters, which presented different tumor immune microenvironments, tumorigenesis scores, and tumor stemness indices. Furthermore, a prognostic risk model including ten prognostic IRGs (ADRB2, CD274, CXCL12, IL12B, NFE2L2, PRF1, SFTPC, TBX21, TNFRSF11B, and TTR) was constructed. The survival analysis indicated that the IRGs risk model independently predicted the prognosis of patients with LGG, which was validated in an independent LGG cohort. Moreover, the risk model significantly correlated with the infiltrative level of immune cells, tumor mutation burden, expression of HLA and immune checkpoint genes, tumorigenesis scores, and tumor stemness indices in LGG. Additionally, we found that our risk model could predict the chemotherapy response of some drugs in patients with LGG. This study may enhance the advancement of personalized therapy and improve outcomes of LGG.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Long
- Department of Orthopedics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Ya Song
- Department of Orthopedics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Yimin Pan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Changwu Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Ganesh SR, Roth CM, Parekkadan B. Simulating Interclonal Interactions in Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma. Bioengineering (Basel) 2023; 10:1360. [PMID: 38135951 PMCID: PMC10740451 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering10121360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is one of the most common types of cancers, accounting for 37% of B-cell tumor cases globally. DLBCL is known to be a heterogeneous disease, resulting in variable clinical presentations and the development of drug resistance. One underexplored aspect of drug resistance is the evolving dynamics between parental and drug-resistant clones within the same microenvironment. In this work, the effects of interclonal interactions between two cell populations-one sensitive to treatment and the other resistant to treatment-on tumor growth behaviors were explored through a mathematical model. In vitro cultures of mixed DLBCL populations demonstrated cooperative interactions and revealed the need for modifying the model to account for complex interactions. Multiple best-fit models derived from in vitro data indicated a difference in steady-state behaviors based on therapy administrations in simulations. The model and methods may serve as a tool for understanding the behaviors of heterogeneous tumors and identifying the optimal therapeutic regimen to eliminate cancer cell populations using computer-guided simulations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Siddarth R. Ganesh
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA; (S.R.G.); (C.M.R.)
| | - Charles M. Roth
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA; (S.R.G.); (C.M.R.)
| | - Biju Parekkadan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA; (S.R.G.); (C.M.R.)
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers Biomedical Health Sciences, New Brunswick, NJ 08852, USA
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
P N N, Mehla S, Begum A, Chaturvedi HK, Ojha R, Hartinger C, Plebanski M, Bhargava SK. Smart Nanozymes for Cancer Therapy: The Next Frontier in Oncology. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2300768. [PMID: 37392379 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202300768] [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: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/03/2023]
Abstract
Nanomaterials that mimic the catalytic activity of natural enzymes in the complex biological environment of the human body are called nanozymes. Recently, nanozyme systems have been reported with diagnostic, imaging, and/or therapeutic capabilities. Smart nanozymes strategically exploit the tumor microenvironment (TME) by the in situ generation of reactive species or by the modulation of the TME itself to result in effective cancer therapy. This topical review focuses on such smart nanozymes for cancer diagnosis, and therapy modalities with enhanced therapeutic effects. The dominant factors that guide the rational design and synthesis of nanozymes for cancer therapy include an understanding of the dynamic TME, structure-activity relationships, surface chemistry for imparting selectivity, and site-specific therapy, and stimulus-responsive modulation of nanozyme activity. This article presents a comprehensive analysis of the subject including the diverse catalytic mechanisms of different types of nanozyme systems, an overview of the TME, cancer diagnosis, and synergistic cancer therapies. The strategic application of nanozymes in cancer treatment can well be a game changer in future oncology. Moreover, recent developments may pave the way for the deployment of nanozyme therapy into other complex healthcare challenges, such as genetic diseases, immune disorders, and ageing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Navya P N
- Centre for Advanced Materials and Industrial Chemistry, School of Science, STEM College, RMIT University, Melbourne, 3000, Australia
| | - Sunil Mehla
- Centre for Advanced Materials and Industrial Chemistry, School of Science, STEM College, RMIT University, Melbourne, 3000, Australia
| | - Amrin Begum
- Centre for Advanced Materials and Industrial Chemistry, School of Science, STEM College, RMIT University, Melbourne, 3000, Australia
| | - Harit K Chaturvedi
- Head Surgical Oncologist, Max Institute of Cancer Care, Delhi, 110024, India
| | - Ruchika Ojha
- Centre for Advanced Materials and Industrial Chemistry, School of Science, STEM College, RMIT University, Melbourne, 3000, Australia
| | - Christian Hartinger
- School of Chemical Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, Private Bag, 92019, New Zealand
| | - Magdalena Plebanski
- Cancer, Ageing and Vaccines Research Group, School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, STEM College, RMIT University, Melbourne, 3000, Australia
| | - Suresh K Bhargava
- Centre for Advanced Materials and Industrial Chemistry, School of Science, STEM College, RMIT University, Melbourne, 3000, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Zhao Z, Li T, Sun L, Yuan Y, Zhu Y. Potential mechanisms of cancer-associated fibroblasts in therapeutic resistance. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 166:115425. [PMID: 37660643 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite continuous improvements in research and new cancer therapeutics, the goal of eradicating cancer remains elusive because of drug resistance. For a long time, drug resistance research has been focused on tumor cells themselves; however, recent studies have found that the tumor microenvironment also plays an important role in inducing drug resistance. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are a main component of the tumor microenvironment. They cross-talk with cancer cells to support their survival in the presence of anticancer drugs. This review summarizes the current knowledge of the role of CAFs in tumor drug resistance. An in-depth understanding of the mechanisms underlying the cross-talk between CAFs and cancer cells and insight into the importance of CAFs in drug resistance can guide the development of new anticancer strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zehua Zhao
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Dalian University of Technology (Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University), Shenyang, China
| | - Tianming Li
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Dalian University of Technology (Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University), Shenyang, China
| | - Liping Sun
- Tumor Etiology and Screening Department of Cancer Institute and General Surgery, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Etiology and Prevention in Liaoning Education Department, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China; Key Laboratory of GI Cancer Etiology and Prevention in Liaoning Province, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
| | - Yuan Yuan
- Tumor Etiology and Screening Department of Cancer Institute and General Surgery, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Etiology and Prevention in Liaoning Education Department, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China; Key Laboratory of GI Cancer Etiology and Prevention in Liaoning Province, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
| | - Yanmei Zhu
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Dalian University of Technology (Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University), Shenyang, China.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Saha A, Kolonin MG, DiGiovanni J. Obesity and prostate cancer - microenvironmental roles of adipose tissue. Nat Rev Urol 2023; 20:579-596. [PMID: 37198266 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-023-00764-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Obesity is known to have important roles in driving prostate cancer aggressiveness and increased mortality. Multiple mechanisms have been postulated for these clinical observations, including effects of diet and lifestyle, systemic changes in energy balance and hormonal regulation and activation of signalling by growth factors and cytokines and other components of the immune system. Over the past decade, research on obesity has shifted towards investigating the role of peri-prostatic white adipose tissue as an important source of locally produced factors that stimulate prostate cancer progression. Cells that comprise white adipose tissue, the adipocytes and their progenitor adipose stromal cells (ASCs), which proliferate to accommodate white adipose tissue expansion in obesity, have been identified as important drivers of obesity-associated cancer progression. Accumulating evidence suggests that adipocytes are a source of lipids that are used by adjacent prostate cancer cells. However, results of preclinical studies indicate that ASCs promote tumour growth by remodelling extracellular matrix and supporting neovascularization, contributing to the recruitment of immunosuppressive cells, and inducing epithelial-mesenchymal transition through paracrine signalling. Because epithelial-mesenchymal transition is associated with cancer chemotherapy resistance and metastasis, ASCs are considered to be potential targets of therapies that could be developed to suppress cancer aggressiveness in patients with obesity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Achinto Saha
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology and Dell Paediatric Research Institute, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
- Center for Molecular Carcinogenesis and Toxicology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
- Livestrong Cancer Institutes, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Mikhail G Kolonin
- The Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine for the Prevention of Disease, The University of Texas Health Sciences Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA.
| | - John DiGiovanni
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology and Dell Paediatric Research Institute, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA.
- Center for Molecular Carcinogenesis and Toxicology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA.
- Livestrong Cancer Institutes, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Roy AM, Iyer R, Chakraborty S. The extracellular matrix in hepatocellular carcinoma: Mechanisms and therapeutic vulnerability. Cell Rep Med 2023; 4:101170. [PMID: 37652015 PMCID: PMC10518608 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2023.101170] [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: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is influenced by a "disorganized" extracellular matrix (ECM) that sensitizes cancer cells toward mechanical stress, signaling, and structural alterations. In hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), lack of knowledge about key ECM proteins driving the TME refractory to targeted therapies poses a barrier to the identification of new therapeutic targets. Herein, we discuss the contributions of various ECM components that impact hepatocytes and their surrounding support network during tumorigenesis. In addition, the underpinnings by which ECM proteins transduce mechanical signals to the liver TME are detailed. Finally, in view of the bidirectional feedback between the ECM, transformed hepatocytes, and immune cells, we highlight the potential role of the ECM disorganization process in shaping responses to immune checkpoint inhibitors and targeted therapies. Our comprehensive characterization of these ECM components may provide a roadmap for innovative therapeutic approaches to restrain HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arya Mariam Roy
- Department of Medicine, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY 14263, USA
| | - Renuka Iyer
- Department of Medicine, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY 14263, USA.
| | - Sayan Chakraborty
- Department of Medicine, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY 14263, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY 14263, USA; Program of Developmental Therapeutics, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, 14263.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Lin X, Sun L, Lu M, Zhao Y. Biomimetic Gland Models with Engineered Stratagems. RESEARCH (WASHINGTON, D.C.) 2023; 6:0232. [PMID: 37719047 PMCID: PMC10503994 DOI: 10.34133/research.0232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
As extensively distributed tissues throughout the human body, glands play a critical role in various physiological processes. Therefore, the construction of biomimetic gland models in vitro has aroused great interest in multiple disciplines. In the biological field, the researchers focus on optimizing the cell sources and culture techniques to reconstruct the specific structures and functions of glands, such as the emergence of organoid technology. From the perspective of biomedical engineering, the generation of biomimetic gland models depends on the combination of engineered scaffolds and microfluidics, to mimic the in vivo environment of glandular tissues. These engineered stratagems endowed gland models with more biomimetic features, as well as a wide range of application prospects. In this review, we first describe the biomimetic strategies for constructing different in vitro gland models, focusing on the role of microfluidics in promoting the structure and function development of biomimetic glands. After summarizing several common in vitro models of endocrine and exocrine glands, the applications of gland models in disease modelling, drug screening, regenerative medicine, and personalized medicine are enumerated. Finally, we conclude the current challenges and our perspective of these biomimetic gland models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Lin
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering,
Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
- Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health),
Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325001, China
| | - Lingyu Sun
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering,
Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Minhui Lu
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering,
Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
| | - Yuanjin Zhao
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering,
Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China
- Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health),
Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wenzhou, Zhejiang 325001, China
- Southeast University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518071, China
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Xu M, Chen J, Zhang P, Cai J, Song H, Li Z, Liu Z. An antibody-radionuclide conjugate targets fibroblast activation protein for cancer therapy. Eur J Nucl Med Mol Imaging 2023; 50:3214-3224. [PMID: 37318538 DOI: 10.1007/s00259-023-06300-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Fibroblast activation protein is one of the most attractive targets for tumor diagnosis and therapy. There have been many successful clinical translations with small molecules and peptides, yet only a few anti-FAP antibody diagnostic or therapeutic agents have been reported. Antibodies often feature good tumor selectivity and long tumor retention, which may be a better-match with therapeutic radionuclides (e.g.,177Lu, 225Ac) for cancer therapy. Here we report a 177Lu-labeled anti-FAP antibody, PKU525, as a therapeutic radiopharmaceutical for FAP-targeted radiotherapy. METHODS The anti-FAP antibody is produced as a derivative of sibrotuzumab. The pharmacokinetics and blocking study are performed with 89Zr-labeled antibody by PET imaging. The conjugation strategies have been screened and tested with SPECT imaging through 177Lu-labeling. The biodistribution and radiotherapy studies are performed on 177Lu-labeled anti-FAP antibody in NU/NU mice-bearing HT-1080-FAP tumors. RESULTS A multiple time-point PET imaging study shows that the tumor accumulation of [89Zr]Zr-DFO-PKU525 is intense, selective, and relatively rapid. The time activity curve indicates that the tumor uptake continually increases until reaches the highest uptake (SUVmax = 18.4 ± 2.3, n = 4) at 192 h, then gradually declines. Radioactivity rapidly cleared from the blood, liver, and other major organs, resulting in high tumor-to-background ratios. An in vivo blocking experiment suggests that [89Zr]Zr-DFO-PKU525 is FAP-specific and the uptake in FAP-negative tumors is almost negligible. Ex vivo biodistribution study shows that the tumor uptake of [177Lu]Lu-DOTA-NCS-PKU525 is 23.04 ± 5.11% ID/g, 33.2 ± 6.36% ID/g, 19.87 ± 6.84% ID/g and 19.02 ± 5.90% ID/g at 24 h, 96 h, 168 h, and 240 h after injection (n = 5), which is corroborated with the PET imaging. In therapeutic assays, multiple doses of [177Lu]Lu-DOTA-NCS-PKU525 have been tested in tumor-bearing mice, and the data suggests that 3.7 MBq may be sufficient to completely suppress the tumor growth in mice without showing observable side effects. CONCLUSION A FAP-targeted antibody-radionuclide conjugate was developed and evaluated in vitro and in vivo. Its tumor accumulation is rapid and high with a clean background. It remarkably suppresses the tumors in mice while the side effect is almost negligible, showing that it is promising for further clinical translational studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mengxin Xu
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Radiochemistry and Radiation Chemistry Key Laboratory of Fundamental Science, Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Junyi Chen
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Radiochemistry and Radiation Chemistry Key Laboratory of Fundamental Science, Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Pu Zhang
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Radiochemistry and Radiation Chemistry Key Laboratory of Fundamental Science, Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Jie Cai
- Boomray Pharmaceuticals (Beijing) Co., Ltd., Beijing, China
| | - Hanbo Song
- Changping Laboratory, Beijing, 102206, China
| | - Zhu Li
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research, Ministry of Education/Beijing), NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Radiopharmaceuticals (National Medical Products Administration), Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, 100142, China.
| | - Zhibo Liu
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Radiochemistry and Radiation Chemistry Key Laboratory of Fundamental Science, Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Chemistry and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China.
- Changping Laboratory, Beijing, 102206, China.
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research, Ministry of Education/Beijing), NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Radiopharmaceuticals (National Medical Products Administration), Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing, 100142, China.
- Peking University-Tsinghua University Center for Life Sciences, Beijing, 100871, China.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Nishikiori N, Takada K, Sato T, Miyamoto S, Watanabe M, Hirakawa Y, Sekiguchi S, Furuhashi M, Yorozu A, Takano K, Miyazaki A, Suzuki H, Ohguro H. Physical Properties and Cellular Metabolic Characteristics of 3D Spheroids Are Possible Definitive Indices for the Biological Nature of Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts. Cells 2023; 12:2160. [PMID: 37681892 PMCID: PMC10486986 DOI: 10.3390/cells12172160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The current study's objective was to elucidate some currently unknown biological indicators to evaluate the biological nature of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). For this purpose, four different CAFs, CAFS1, CAFS2, SCC17F and MO-1000, were established using surgical specimens from oral squamous cell carcinomas (OSCC) with different clinical malignant stages (CAFS1 and CAFS2, T2N0M0, stage II; SCC17F and MO-1000, T4aN2bM0, stage IVA). Fibroblasts unrelated to cancer (non-CAFs) were also prepared and used as controls. Initially, confirmation that these four fibroblasts were indeed CAFs was obtained by their mRNA expression using positive and negative markers for the CAF or fibroblasts. To elucidate possible unknown biological indicators, these fibroblasts were subjected to a cellular metabolic analysis by a Seahorse bioanalyzer, in conjugation with 3D spheroid cultures of the cells and co-cultures with a pancreas ductal carcinoma cell line, MIA PaCa-2. The mitochondrial and glycolytic functions of human orbital fibroblasts (HOF) were nearly identical to those of Graves'-disease-related HOF (GOF). In contrast, the characteristics of the metabolic functions of these four CAFs were different from those of human conjunctival fibroblasts (HconF), a representative non-CAF. It is particularly noteworthy that CAFS1 and CAFS2 showed markedly reduced ratios for the rate of oxygen consumption to the extracellular acidification rate, suggesting that glycolysis was enhanced compared to mitochondrial respiration. Similarly, the physical aspects, their appearance and stiffness, of their 3D spheroids and fibroblasts that were induced effects based on the cellular metabolic functions of MIA PaCa-2 were also different between CAFs and non-CAFs, and their levels for CAFS1 or SCC17F were similar to those for CAFS2 or MO-1000 cells, respectively. The findings reported herein indicate that cellular metabolic functions and the physical characteristics of these types of 3D spheroids may be valuable and useful indicators for estimating potential biological diversity among various CAFs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nami Nishikiori
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sapporo Medical University, S1W17, Chuo-ku, Spporo 060-8556, Japan; (N.N.); (M.W.)
| | - Kohichi Takada
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sapporo Medical University, S1W17, Chuo-ku, Spporo 060-8556, Japan;
| | - Tatsuya Sato
- Department of Cardiovascular, Renal and Metabolic Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, S1W17, Chuo-ku, Spporo 060-8556, Japan; (T.S.); (M.F.)
- Department of Cellular Physiology and Signal Transduction, Sapporo Medical University, S1W17, Chuo-ku, Spporo 060-8556, Japan
| | - Sho Miyamoto
- Department of Oral Surgery, Sapporo Medical University, S1W17, Chuo-ku, Spporo 060-8556, Japan; (S.M.); (S.S.); (A.M.)
| | - Megumi Watanabe
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sapporo Medical University, S1W17, Chuo-ku, Spporo 060-8556, Japan; (N.N.); (M.W.)
| | - Yui Hirakawa
- Department of Oral Surgery, Sapporo Medical University, S1W17, Chuo-ku, Spporo 060-8556, Japan; (S.M.); (S.S.); (A.M.)
| | - Shohei Sekiguchi
- Department of Oral Surgery, Sapporo Medical University, S1W17, Chuo-ku, Spporo 060-8556, Japan; (S.M.); (S.S.); (A.M.)
- Department of Molecular Biology, Sapporo Medical University, S1W17, Chuo-ku, Spporo 060-8556, Japan; (A.Y.); (H.S.)
| | - Masato Furuhashi
- Department of Cardiovascular, Renal and Metabolic Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, S1W17, Chuo-ku, Spporo 060-8556, Japan; (T.S.); (M.F.)
| | - Akira Yorozu
- Department of Molecular Biology, Sapporo Medical University, S1W17, Chuo-ku, Spporo 060-8556, Japan; (A.Y.); (H.S.)
- Department of Otolaryngology, Sapporo Medical University, S1W17, Chuo-ku, Spporo 060-8556, Japan;
| | - Kenichi Takano
- Department of Otolaryngology, Sapporo Medical University, S1W17, Chuo-ku, Spporo 060-8556, Japan;
| | - Akihiro Miyazaki
- Department of Oral Surgery, Sapporo Medical University, S1W17, Chuo-ku, Spporo 060-8556, Japan; (S.M.); (S.S.); (A.M.)
| | - Hiromu Suzuki
- Department of Molecular Biology, Sapporo Medical University, S1W17, Chuo-ku, Spporo 060-8556, Japan; (A.Y.); (H.S.)
| | - Hiroshi Ohguro
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sapporo Medical University, S1W17, Chuo-ku, Spporo 060-8556, Japan; (N.N.); (M.W.)
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Li C, Holman JB, Shi Z, Qiu B, Ding W. On-chip modeling of tumor evolution: Advances, challenges and opportunities. Mater Today Bio 2023; 21:100724. [PMID: 37483380 PMCID: PMC10359640 DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2023.100724] [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: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor evolution is the accumulation of various tumor cell behaviors from tumorigenesis to tumor metastasis and is regulated by the tumor microenvironment (TME). However, the mechanism of solid tumor progression has not been completely elucidated, and thus, the development of tumor therapy is still limited. Recently, Tumor chips constructed by culturing tumor cells and stromal cells on microfluidic chips have demonstrated great potential in modeling solid tumors and visualizing tumor cell behaviors to exploit tumor progression. Herein, we review the methods of developing engineered solid tumors on microfluidic chips in terms of tumor types, cell resources and patterns, the extracellular matrix and the components of the TME, and summarize the recent advances of microfluidic chips in demonstrating tumor cell behaviors, including proliferation, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, migration, intravasation, extravasation and immune escape of tumor cells. We also outline the combination of tumor organoids and microfluidic chips to elaborate tumor organoid-on-a-chip platforms, as well as the practical limitations that must be overcome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chengpan Li
- Department of Electronic Engineering and Information Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230027, China
- Center for Biomedical Imaging, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230027, China
| | - Joseph Benjamin Holman
- Department of Electronic Engineering and Information Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230027, China
| | - Zhengdi Shi
- Department of Electronic Engineering and Information Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230027, China
| | - Bensheng Qiu
- Department of Electronic Engineering and Information Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230027, China
- Center for Biomedical Imaging, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230027, China
| | - Weiping Ding
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230001, China
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Jamal Eddin TM, Nasr SM, Gupta I, Zayed H, Al Moustafa AE. Helicobacter pylori and epithelial mesenchymal transition in human gastric cancers: An update of the literature. Heliyon 2023; 9:e18945. [PMID: 37609398 PMCID: PMC10440535 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e18945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer, a multifactorial disease, is considered one of the most common malignancies worldwide. In addition to genetic and environmental risk factors, infectious agents, such as Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and Helicobacter pylori (H.pylori) contribute to the onset and development of gastric cancer. H. pylori is a type I carcinogen that colonizes the gastric epithelium of approximately 50% of the world's population, thus increasing the risk of gastric cancer development. On the other hand, epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a fundamental process crucial to embryogenic growth, wound healing, organ fibrosis and cancer progression. Several studies associate gastric pathogen infection of the epithelium with EMT initiation, provoking cancer metastasis in the gastric mucosa through various molecular signaling pathways. Additionally, EMT is implicated in the progression and development of H. pylori-associated gastric cancer. In this review, we recapitulate recent findings elucidating the association between H. pylori infection in EMT promotion leading to gastric cancer progression and metastasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tala M. Jamal Eddin
- College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, PO Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Shahd M.O. Nasr
- College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, PO Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ishita Gupta
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, PO Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Hatem Zayed
- College of Health Sciences, QU Health, Qatar University, PO Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ala-Eddin Al Moustafa
- College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, PO Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
- Biomedical Research Center, Qatar University, PO Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
- Oncology Department, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, H3G 2M1, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Zhou M, Wang J, Pan J, Wang H, Huang L, Hou B, Lai Y, Wang F, Guan Q, Wang F, Xu Z, Yu H. Nanovesicles loaded with a TGF-β receptor 1 inhibitor overcome immune resistance to potentiate cancer immunotherapy. Nat Commun 2023; 14:3593. [PMID: 37328484 PMCID: PMC10275881 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-39035-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The immune-excluded tumors (IETs) show limited response to current immunotherapy due to intrinsic and adaptive immune resistance. In this study, it is identified that inhibition of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) receptor 1 can relieve tumor fibrosis, thus facilitating the recruitment of tumor-infiltrating T lymphocytes. Subsequently, a nanovesicle is constructed for tumor-specific co-delivery of a TGF-β inhibitor (LY2157299, LY) and the photosensitizer pyropheophorbide a (PPa). The LY-loaded nanovesicles suppress tumor fibrosis to promote intratumoral infiltration of T lymphocytes. Furthermore, PPa chelated with gadolinium ion is capable of fluorescence, photoacoustic and magnetic resonance triple-modal imaging-guided photodynamic therapy, to induce immunogenic death of tumor cells and elicit antitumor immunity in preclinical cancer models in female mice. These nanovesicles are further armored with a lipophilic prodrug of the bromodomain-containing protein 4 inhibitor (i.e., JQ1) to abolish programmed death ligand 1 expression of tumor cells and overcome adaptive immune resistance. This study may pave the way for nanomedicine-based immunotherapy of the IETs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mengxue Zhou
- Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Jiaxin Wang
- Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Inner Mongolia University, Huhhot, 010021, China
| | - Jiaxing Pan
- Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Hui Wang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Inner Mongolia University, Huhhot, 010021, China
| | - Lujia Huang
- Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Bo Hou
- Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Yi Lai
- Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Fengyang Wang
- Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200072, China
| | - Qingxiang Guan
- School of Pharmacy, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Feng Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Huadong Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Zhiai Xu
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200241, China
| | - Haijun Yu
- Center of Pharmaceutics, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China.
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Fu X, Wang Q, Du H, Hao H. CXCL8 and the peritoneal metastasis of ovarian and gastric cancer. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1159061. [PMID: 37377954 PMCID: PMC10291199 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1159061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
CXCL8 is the most representative chemokine produced autocrine or paracrine by tumor cells, endothelial cells and lymphocytes. It can play a key role in normal tissues and tumors by activating PI3K-Akt, PLC, JAK-STAT, and other signaling pathways after combining with CXCR1/2. The incidence of peritoneal metastasis in ovarian and gastric cancer is extremely high. The structure of the peritoneum and various peritoneal-related cells supports the peritoneal metastasis of cancers, which readily produces a poor prognosis, low 5-year survival rate, and the death of patients. Studies show that CXCL8 is excessively secreted in a variety of cancers. Thus, this paper will further elaborate on the mechanism of CXCL8 and the peritoneal metastasis of ovarian and gastric cancer to provide a theoretical basis for the proposal of new methods for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer peritoneal metastasis.
Collapse
|
47
|
Nie JZ, Wang MT, Nie D. Regulations of Tumor Microenvironment by Prostaglandins. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3090. [PMID: 37370700 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15123090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Prostaglandins, the bioactive lipids generated from the metabolism of arachidonic acid through cyclooxygenases, have potent effects on many constituents of tumor microenvironments. In this review, we will describe the formation and activities of prostaglandins in the context of the tumor microenvironment. We will discuss the regulation of cancer-associated fibroblasts and immune constituents by prostaglandins and their roles in immune escapes during tumor progression. The review concludes with future perspectives on improving the efficacy of immunotherapy through repurposing non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs and other prostaglandin modulators.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey Z Nie
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Simmons Cancer Institute, Southern Illinois University, Springfield, IL 62702, USA
| | - Man-Tzu Wang
- Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburg School of Medicine, Pittsburg, PA 15232, USA
| | - Daotai Nie
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Cell Biology, School of Medicine, Simmons Cancer Institute, Southern Illinois University, Springfield, IL 62702, USA
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Bruni S, Mercogliano MF, Mauro FL, Cordo Russo RI, Schillaci R. Cancer immune exclusion: breaking the barricade for a successful immunotherapy. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1135456. [PMID: 37284199 PMCID: PMC10239871 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1135456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapy has changed the course of cancer treatment. The initial steps were made through tumor-specific antibodies that guided the setup of an antitumor immune response. A new and successful generation of antibodies are designed to target immune checkpoint molecules aimed to reinvigorate the antitumor immune response. The cellular counterpart is the adoptive cell therapy, where specific immune cells are expanded or engineered to target cancer cells. In all cases, the key for achieving positive clinical resolutions rests upon the access of immune cells to the tumor. In this review, we focus on how the tumor microenvironment architecture, including stromal cells, immunosuppressive cells and extracellular matrix, protects tumor cells from an immune attack leading to immunotherapy resistance, and on the available strategies to tackle immune evasion.
Collapse
|
49
|
Li J, Bao H, Huang Z, Liang Z, Wang M, Lin N, Ni C, Xu Y. Little things with significant impact: miRNAs in hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1191070. [PMID: 37274242 PMCID: PMC10235484 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1191070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has developed into one of the most lethal, aggressive, and malignant cancers worldwide. Although HCC treatment has improved in recent years, the incidence and lethality of HCC continue to increase yearly. Therefore, an in-depth study of the pathogenesis of HCC and the search for more reliable therapeutic targets are crucial to improving the survival quality of HCC patients. Currently, miRNAs have become one of the hotspots in life science research, which are widely present in living organisms and are non-coding RNAs involved in regulating gene expression. MiRNAs exert their biological roles by suppressing the expression of downstream genes and are engaged in various HCC-related processes, including proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, and metastasis. In addition, the expression status of miRNAs is related to the drug resistance mechanism of HCC, which has important implications for the systemic treatment of HCC. This paper reviews the regulatory role of miRNAs in the pathogenesis of HCC and the clinical applications of miRNAs in HCC in recent years.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiehan Li
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Haolin Bao
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Ziyue Huang
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Zixin Liang
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Mei Wang
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
| | - Ning Lin
- Key Laboratory of Functional and Clinical Translational Medicine, Fujian Province University, Xiamen Medical College, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Chunjie Ni
- Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Tumor Targeted Nano Diagnostic and Therapeutic Materials, Yancheng Teachers University, Yancheng, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yi Xu
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, Guizhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Functional and Clinical Translational Medicine, Fujian Province University, Xiamen Medical College, Xiamen, Fujian, China
- Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Tumor Targeted Nano Diagnostic and Therapeutic Materials, Yancheng Teachers University, Yancheng, Jiangsu, China
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Key Laboratory of Chemical Genomics, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomarkers and In Vitro Diagnosis Translation of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Cancer (Fujian Medical University), Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Intelligent Pharmacy and Individualized Therapy of Huzhou, Department of Pharmacy, Changxing People’s Hospital, Changxing, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Pathology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Zhao Z, Li T, Yuan Y, Zhu Y. What is new in cancer-associated fibroblast biomarkers? Cell Commun Signal 2023; 21:96. [PMID: 37143134 PMCID: PMC10158035 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01125-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment is one of the important drivers of tumor development. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are a major component of the tumor stroma and actively participate in tumor development, invasion, metastasis, drug resistance, and other biological behaviors. CAFs are a highly heterogeneous group of cells, a reflection of the diversity of their origin, biomarkers, and functions. The diversity of CAF origin determines the complexity of CAF biomarkers, and CAF subpopulations expressing different biomarkers may play contrasting roles in tumor progression. In this review, we provide an overview of these emerging CAF biomarkers and the biological functions that they suggest, which may give a better understanding of the relationship between CAFs and tumor cells and be of great significance for breakthroughs in precision targeted therapy for tumors. Video Abstract.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zehua Zhao
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Dalian University of Technology (Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University), No. 44 of Xiaoheyan Road, Dadong District, Shenyang, 110042, China
| | - Tianming Li
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Dalian University of Technology (Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University), No. 44 of Xiaoheyan Road, Dadong District, Shenyang, 110042, China
| | - Yuan Yuan
- Tumor Etiology and Screening Department of Cancer Institute and General Surgery, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Etiology and Prevention in Liaoning Education Department, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
- Key Laboratory of GI Cancer Etiology and Prevention in Liaoning Province, The First Hospital of China Medical University, No. 155 of Nanjing Road, Heping District, Shenyang, 110001, China.
| | - Yanmei Zhu
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Dalian University of Technology (Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University), No. 44 of Xiaoheyan Road, Dadong District, Shenyang, 110042, China.
| |
Collapse
|