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Zheng X, Sun R, Wei T. Immune microenvironment in papillary thyroid carcinoma: roles of immune cells and checkpoints in disease progression and therapeutic implications. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1438235. [PMID: 39290709 PMCID: PMC11405226 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1438235] [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: 05/25/2024] [Accepted: 08/14/2024] [Indexed: 09/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) is the most common type of primary thyroid cancer. Despite the low malignancy and relatively good prognosis, some PTC cases are highly aggressive and even develop refractory cancer in the thyroid. Growing evidence suggested that microenvironment in tumor affected PTC biological behavior due to different immune states. Different interconnected components in the immune system influence and participate in tumor invasion, and are closely related to PTC metastasis. Immune cells and molecules are widely distributed in PTC tissues. Their quantity and proportion vary with the host's immune status, which suggests that immunotherapy may be a very promising therapeutic modality for PTC. In this paper, we review the role of immune cells and immune checkpoints in PTC immune microenvironment based on the characteristics of the PTC tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xun Zheng
- Department of Thyroid and Parathyroid Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ruonan Sun
- Department of Thyroid and Parathyroid Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- West China School of Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Tao Wei
- Department of Thyroid and Parathyroid Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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2
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Li X, Jian J, Zhang A, Xiang JM, Huang J, Chen Y. The role of immune cells and immune related genes in the tumor microenvironment of papillary thyroid cancer and their significance for immunotherapy. Sci Rep 2024; 14:18125. [PMID: 39103463 PMCID: PMC11300445 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-69187-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is the most common pathological type of thyroid cancer (THCA) and shows a better prognosis than other types. However, further research is needed to determine the risk of PTC. We herein used the CIBERSORT algorithm to analyze the gene-expression profile obtained from TCGA, estimated the infiltration ratio of 22 immune cell types in tumor tissues and normal tissues, analyzed the differential expression of immune-related genes, and identified immune cells and immune-related genes related to clinical progress and prognosis. We uncovered 12 immune cell types and nine immune-related genes that were closely correlated with TNM staging, and two immune cell types (activated NK cells and γδT cells) and one immune-related gene (CD40LG) that were associated with prognosis. After evaluation, four immune cell types could be used to determine low-risk PTC, with six immune cell types and six immune-related genes closely associated with high-risk PTC. The type and quantity of infiltrating immune cells in the microenvironment of PTC, as well as immune-related genes, appear to be closely related to tumor progression and can therefore be used as important indicators for the evaluation of patient prognosis. We posit that the study of immune cells and immune-related genes in the tumor microenvironment will facilitate the determination of low-risk PTC more accurately, and that this will greatly promote the development of high-risk PTC immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xumei Li
- Department of Pathology, Chongqing Changshou District Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Jie Jian
- Department of Pathology, Chongqing Changshou District Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Anzhi Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Jiaxing University Affiliated Women and Children Hospital (Jiaxing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital), Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, China
| | - Jiang Ming Xiang
- Department of Surgery, Chongqing Changshou District Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Jingjing Huang
- Department of Surgery, Chongqing Changshou District Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Yanlin Chen
- Department of Pathology, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University (Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children), Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.
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Bova V, Basilotta R, Casili G, Lanza M, Filippone A, Campolo M, Capra AP, Vitale G, Chisari G, Colarossi C, Giuffrida D, Paterniti I, Esposito E. The Protective Role of Troxerutin (Trox) in Counteracting Anaplastic Thyroid Carcinoma (ATC) Progression. Biomedicines 2024; 12:1755. [PMID: 39200219 PMCID: PMC11351865 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12081755] [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: 07/10/2024] [Revised: 07/28/2024] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 09/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma (ATC) is a rare thyroid neoplasm characterized by aggressiveness and a high mortality rate. Troxerutin (Trox) is a bioflavonoid widely found in various fruits and vegetables with numerous protective effects, including anticancer activities. To evaluate the anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effect of Trox, in vitro and in vivo studies were conducted in a model of ATC. Human ATC 8305C cell lines were treated with increasing concentrations of Trox (10 μg/mL, 30 μg/mL, 100 μg/mL, 300 μg/mL), and our results revealed that Trox treatment was able to reduce the viability of ATC cells and migratory capacity, reducing the expression of anti-apoptotic factors, such as B-cell lymphoma (bcl-2), and increasing the expression of pro-apoptotic factors, such as Caspase-3 and BID, activating oxidative stress mediators, such as manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), glutathione (GSH) and reactive oxygen species modulator 1 (ROMO-1). Furthermore, Trox modulates NF-κB pathway markers, such as NIK and TRAF-6. Further confirmation was obtained through in vivo studies, in which Trox treatment, at doses of 12.5, 25 and 50 mg/kg, reduced morphological alteration, decreasing mast cell accumulation. Therefore, the use of Trox could be considered a promising strategy to counteract the progression of ATC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Bova
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale F. Stagno D’Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy; (V.B.); (R.B.); (G.C.); (M.L.); (A.F.); (M.C.); (A.P.C.); (G.V.); (I.P.)
| | - Rossella Basilotta
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale F. Stagno D’Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy; (V.B.); (R.B.); (G.C.); (M.L.); (A.F.); (M.C.); (A.P.C.); (G.V.); (I.P.)
| | - Giovanna Casili
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale F. Stagno D’Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy; (V.B.); (R.B.); (G.C.); (M.L.); (A.F.); (M.C.); (A.P.C.); (G.V.); (I.P.)
| | - Marika Lanza
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale F. Stagno D’Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy; (V.B.); (R.B.); (G.C.); (M.L.); (A.F.); (M.C.); (A.P.C.); (G.V.); (I.P.)
| | - Alessia Filippone
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale F. Stagno D’Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy; (V.B.); (R.B.); (G.C.); (M.L.); (A.F.); (M.C.); (A.P.C.); (G.V.); (I.P.)
| | - Michela Campolo
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale F. Stagno D’Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy; (V.B.); (R.B.); (G.C.); (M.L.); (A.F.); (M.C.); (A.P.C.); (G.V.); (I.P.)
| | - Anna Paola Capra
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale F. Stagno D’Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy; (V.B.); (R.B.); (G.C.); (M.L.); (A.F.); (M.C.); (A.P.C.); (G.V.); (I.P.)
| | - Giulia Vitale
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale F. Stagno D’Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy; (V.B.); (R.B.); (G.C.); (M.L.); (A.F.); (M.C.); (A.P.C.); (G.V.); (I.P.)
| | - Giulia Chisari
- Istituto Oncologico del Mediterraneo, Via Penninazzo 7, 95029 Viagrande, Italy; (G.C.); (C.C.); (D.G.)
| | - Cristina Colarossi
- Istituto Oncologico del Mediterraneo, Via Penninazzo 7, 95029 Viagrande, Italy; (G.C.); (C.C.); (D.G.)
| | - Dario Giuffrida
- Istituto Oncologico del Mediterraneo, Via Penninazzo 7, 95029 Viagrande, Italy; (G.C.); (C.C.); (D.G.)
| | - Irene Paterniti
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale F. Stagno D’Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy; (V.B.); (R.B.); (G.C.); (M.L.); (A.F.); (M.C.); (A.P.C.); (G.V.); (I.P.)
| | - Emanuela Esposito
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale F. Stagno D’Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy; (V.B.); (R.B.); (G.C.); (M.L.); (A.F.); (M.C.); (A.P.C.); (G.V.); (I.P.)
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Cai XJ, Peng CR, Zhang JY, Li XF, Wang X, Han Y, Zhang HY, Peng X, Li TJ. Mast Cell Infiltration and Subtype Promote Malignant Transformation of Oral Precancer and Progression of Oral Cancer. CANCER RESEARCH COMMUNICATIONS 2024; 4:2203-2214. [PMID: 39087378 PMCID: PMC11339667 DOI: 10.1158/2767-9764.crc-24-0169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/26/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
The role of mast cell (MC), a common myeloid-derived immune cell, in the development of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate MC infiltration in oral precancer and oral cancer. The evaluation of immune cell infiltration and its association with prognosis in OSCC used RNA sequencing and multiple public datasets. Multiplex immunofluorescence was used to explore the infiltration of MC in the microenvironment of OSCC and oral precancer and the interaction with CD8+ cells. The role of MC in OSCC progression was verified by in vivo experiments. The resting MC infiltration was mainly present in oral precancer, whereas activated MC infiltration was significantly higher in OSCC. Activated MC was associated with malignant transformation of oral precancer and poor prognosis of OSCC. In vivo studies showed that MC promoted the growth of OSCC. The infiltration of activated MC was negatively correlated with the infiltration of CD8+ T cells. The subtype of MC containing tryptase without chymase (MCT) was significantly higher in OSCC compared with oral precancer and was associated with poor survival. Furthermore, spatial distance analysis revealed a greater distance between MCT and CD8+ cells, which was also linked to poor prognosis in OSCC. Cox regression analysis showed that MCT could be a potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarker. This study provides new insights into the role of MC in the immune microenvironment of OSCC. It might enhance the immunotherapeutic efficacy of OSCC by developing targeted therapies against MC. SIGNIFICANCE In this study, we investigated the role of mast cells (MC) in oral precancer and oral cancer and demonstrated that MCs are involved in oral cancer progression and may serve as a potential diagnostic and prognostic marker. It might improve the immunotherapeutic efficacy through developing targeted therapies against MCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Jia Cai
- Central Laboratory, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Beijing, China.
- National Center for Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, National Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Digital Medical Devices, Beijing Key Laboratory of Digital Stomatology, Research Center of Engineering and Technology for Computerized Dentistry Ministry of Health, NMPA Key Laboratory for Dental Materials, National Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Digital Medical Devices, Beijing, China.
| | - Chao-Ran Peng
- Department of Oral Pathology, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Beijing, China.
- National Center for Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, National Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Digital Medical Devices, Beijing Key Laboratory of Digital Stomatology, Research Center of Engineering and Technology for Computerized Dentistry Ministry of Health, NMPA Key Laboratory for Dental Materials, National Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Digital Medical Devices, Beijing, China.
- Research Unit of Precision Pathologic Diagnosis in Tumors of the Oral and Maxillofacial Regions, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU034), Beijing, China.
| | - Jian-Yun Zhang
- Department of Oral Pathology, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Beijing, China.
- National Center for Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, National Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Digital Medical Devices, Beijing Key Laboratory of Digital Stomatology, Research Center of Engineering and Technology for Computerized Dentistry Ministry of Health, NMPA Key Laboratory for Dental Materials, National Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Digital Medical Devices, Beijing, China.
- Research Unit of Precision Pathologic Diagnosis in Tumors of the Oral and Maxillofacial Regions, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU034), Beijing, China.
| | - Xue-Fen Li
- Central Laboratory, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Beijing, China.
- National Center for Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, National Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Digital Medical Devices, Beijing Key Laboratory of Digital Stomatology, Research Center of Engineering and Technology for Computerized Dentistry Ministry of Health, NMPA Key Laboratory for Dental Materials, National Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Digital Medical Devices, Beijing, China.
| | - Xu Wang
- Department of Oral Medicine, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Beijing, China.
- National Center for Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, National Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Digital Medical Devices, Beijing Key Laboratory of Digital Stomatology, Research Center of Engineering and Technology for Computerized Dentistry Ministry of Health, NMPA Key Laboratory for Dental Materials, National Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Digital Medical Devices, Beijing, China.
| | - Ying Han
- Department of Oral Medicine, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Beijing, China.
- National Center for Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, National Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Digital Medical Devices, Beijing Key Laboratory of Digital Stomatology, Research Center of Engineering and Technology for Computerized Dentistry Ministry of Health, NMPA Key Laboratory for Dental Materials, National Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Digital Medical Devices, Beijing, China.
| | - He-Yu Zhang
- Central Laboratory, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Beijing, China.
- National Center for Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, National Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Digital Medical Devices, Beijing Key Laboratory of Digital Stomatology, Research Center of Engineering and Technology for Computerized Dentistry Ministry of Health, NMPA Key Laboratory for Dental Materials, National Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Digital Medical Devices, Beijing, China.
| | - Xin Peng
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Beijing, China.
- National Center for Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, National Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Digital Medical Devices, Beijing Key Laboratory of Digital Stomatology, Research Center of Engineering and Technology for Computerized Dentistry Ministry of Health, NMPA Key Laboratory for Dental Materials, National Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Digital Medical Devices, Beijing, China.
| | - Tie-Jun Li
- Department of Oral Pathology, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Beijing, China.
- National Center for Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, National Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Digital Medical Devices, Beijing Key Laboratory of Digital Stomatology, Research Center of Engineering and Technology for Computerized Dentistry Ministry of Health, NMPA Key Laboratory for Dental Materials, National Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Digital Medical Devices, Beijing, China.
- Research Unit of Precision Pathologic Diagnosis in Tumors of the Oral and Maxillofacial Regions, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019RU034), Beijing, China.
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Qiu Z, Pang G, Xu X, Lin J, Wang P. Characteristics of mast cell infiltration in lung adenocarcinoma and its impact on prognosis. Discov Oncol 2024; 15:208. [PMID: 38834833 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-024-01062-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The role of mast cells in malignancies remains unclear, and there is no clear correlation between mast cells and tumor microvessels, tumor growth, or lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) prognosis. This study aims to explore the association between mast cell density (MCD) and intratumoral microvessel density (MVD), clinicopathological parameters, and prognosis in LUAD, by evaluating mast cell infiltration characteristics and their prognostic significance. METHODS This retrospective investigation involved 238 patients with LUAD undergoing complete resection. Tumor and normal lung tissue sections outside the tumor were immunohistochemically stained for MCD in the intratumoral and outside regions, respectively. CD34 polyclonal antibody was used to measure intratumoral MVD. RESULTS Intratumoral regions of LUAD had a higher MCD (P < 0.001) than normal lung tissue. In the intratumoral region, MCD and CD34-MVD were positively correlated (r = 0.411, P < 0.001). Intratumoral MCD correlated with sex, smoking history, tumor differentiation, pathological subtype, and tumor size. Female sex (P = 0.012), no smoking history (P = 0.002), acinar predominant type (P = 0.012), and tumor size ≤ 3 cm (P = 0.009) were associated with a higher MCD, whereas poorly differentiated (P = 0.039) and solid/micropapillary predominant types (P = 0.001) were associated with a lower MCD. Higher intratumoral MCD exhibited a marginally improved overall survival, and individuals with higher MCD infiltration ratios (intratumoral MCD/outside the MCD) had higher disease-free and overall survival rates (log-rank P < 0.001). A high MCD infiltration ratio was associated with decreased risk of tumor progression and death following complete resection. CONCLUSION The tumor microenvironment controls mast cell infiltration in LUAD, and patients with increased intratumoral mast cell infiltration have better prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zijian Qiu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Quzhou Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Quzhou People's Hospital, Quzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Guanchao Pang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, No. 1511, Jianghong Road, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Xia Xu
- Department of Pathology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jun Lin
- Department of Pathology, The Quzhou Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Quzhou People's Hospital, Quzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Pingli Wang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, No. 1511, Jianghong Road, Hangzhou, 310003, China.
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Febrero B, Ruiz-Manzanera JJ, Ros-Madrid I, Hernández AM, Orenes-Piñero E, Rodríguez JM. Tumor microenvironment in thyroid cancer: Immune cells, patterns, and novel treatments. Head Neck 2024; 46:1486-1499. [PMID: 38380767 DOI: 10.1002/hed.27695] [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: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The tumor immune microenvironment of thyroid cancer is the heterogeneous histological space in which tumor cells coexist with host cells. Published data from this review were identified by search and selection database of Pubmed, Elsevier, and Science Direct. Searching was made in two steps using different keywords. In thyroid pathology, the inflammatory response is very important, and might have a key role finding new diagnostic and therapeutic methods, particularly in thyroid cancer. Different immune cells may be more or less present in different types of thyroid cancer and may even have different functions, hence the importance of knowing their presence in different thyroid tumor pathologies. Cancer-related inflammation could be a useful target for new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies by analyzing peritumoral and intratumoral immune cells in different types of thyroid tumors. Moreover, novel strategies for thyroid cancer treatments, such as monoclonal antibodies targeting checkpoint inhibitors, are emerging as promising alternatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz Febrero
- Department of Endocrine Surgery, General Surgery Service, Virgen de la Arrixaca University Hospital, Murcia, Spain
- Biomedical Research Institute of Murcia (IMIB-Arrixaca), Murcia, Spain
| | - Juan José Ruiz-Manzanera
- Department of Endocrine Surgery, General Surgery Service, Virgen de la Arrixaca University Hospital, Murcia, Spain
- Biomedical Research Institute of Murcia (IMIB-Arrixaca), Murcia, Spain
| | - Inmaculada Ros-Madrid
- Department of Endocrinology and Nutrition, Virgen de la Arrixaca University Hospital, Murcia, Spain
| | - Antonio Miguel Hernández
- Department of Endocrinology and Nutrition, Virgen de la Arrixaca University Hospital, Murcia, Spain
| | - Esteban Orenes-Piñero
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology-A, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - José Manuel Rodríguez
- Department of Endocrine Surgery, General Surgery Service, Virgen de la Arrixaca University Hospital, Murcia, Spain
- Biomedical Research Institute of Murcia (IMIB-Arrixaca), Murcia, Spain
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Korbecki J, Bosiacki M, Szatkowska I, Kupnicka P, Chlubek D, Baranowska-Bosiacka I. The Clinical Significance and Involvement in Molecular Cancer Processes of Chemokine CXCL1 in Selected Tumors. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4365. [PMID: 38673949 PMCID: PMC11050300 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25084365] [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: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Chemokines play a key role in cancer processes, with CXCL1 being a well-studied example. Due to the lack of a complete summary of CXCL1's role in cancer in the literature, in this study, we examine the significance of CXCL1 in various cancers such as bladder, glioblastoma, hemangioendothelioma, leukemias, Kaposi's sarcoma, lung, osteosarcoma, renal, and skin cancers (malignant melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma), along with thyroid cancer. We focus on understanding how CXCL1 is involved in the cancer processes of these specific types of tumors. We look at how CXCL1 affects cancer cells, including their proliferation, migration, EMT, and metastasis. We also explore how CXCL1 influences other cells connected to tumors, like promoting angiogenesis, recruiting neutrophils, and affecting immune cell functions. Additionally, we discuss the clinical aspects by exploring how CXCL1 levels relate to cancer staging, lymph node metastasis, patient outcomes, chemoresistance, and radioresistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Korbecki
- Department of Biochemistry and Medical Chemistry, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Powstańców Wlkp. 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland; (J.K.); (M.B.); (D.C.)
- Department of Anatomy and Histology, Collegium Medicum, University of Zielona Góra, Zyty 28, 65-046 Zielona Góra, Poland
| | - Mateusz Bosiacki
- Department of Biochemistry and Medical Chemistry, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Powstańców Wlkp. 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland; (J.K.); (M.B.); (D.C.)
| | - Iwona Szatkowska
- Department of Ruminants Science, Faculty of Biotechnology and Animal Husbandry, West Pomeranian University of Technology, Klemensa Janickiego 29 St., 71-270 Szczecin, Poland;
| | - Patrycja Kupnicka
- Department of Biochemistry and Medical Chemistry, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Powstańców Wlkp. 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland; (J.K.); (M.B.); (D.C.)
| | - Dariusz Chlubek
- Department of Biochemistry and Medical Chemistry, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Powstańców Wlkp. 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland; (J.K.); (M.B.); (D.C.)
| | - Irena Baranowska-Bosiacka
- Department of Biochemistry and Medical Chemistry, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Powstańców Wlkp. 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland; (J.K.); (M.B.); (D.C.)
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Komatsuda H, Kono M, Wakisaka R, Sato R, Inoue T, Kumai T, Takahara M. Harnessing Immunity to Treat Advanced Thyroid Cancer. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 12:45. [PMID: 38250858 PMCID: PMC10820966 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines12010045] [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: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The incidence of thyroid cancer (TC) has increased over the past 30 years. Although differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) has a good prognosis in most patients undergoing total thyroidectomy followed by radioiodine therapy (RAI), 5-10% of patients develop metastasis. Anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC) has a low survival rate and few effective treatments have been available to date. Recently, tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have been successfully applied to RAI-resistant or non-responsive TC to suppress the disease. However, TC eventually develops resistance to TKIs. Immunotherapy is a promising treatment for TC, the majority of which is considered an immune-hot malignancy. Immune suppression by TC cells and immune-suppressing cells, including tumor-associated macrophages, myeloid-derived suppressor cells, and regulatory T cells, is complex and dynamic. Negative immune checkpoints, cytokines, vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGF), and indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO1) suppress antitumor T cells. Basic and translational advances in immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), molecule-targeted therapy, tumor-specific immunotherapy, and their combinations have enabled us to overcome immune suppression and activate antitumor immune cells. This review summarizes current findings regarding the immune microenvironment, immunosuppression, immunological targets, and immunotherapy for TC and highlights the potential efficacy of immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Komatsuda
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa 078-8510, Japan; (H.K.); (M.K.); (R.W.); (R.S.); (T.I.); (M.T.)
| | - Michihisa Kono
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa 078-8510, Japan; (H.K.); (M.K.); (R.W.); (R.S.); (T.I.); (M.T.)
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Risa Wakisaka
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa 078-8510, Japan; (H.K.); (M.K.); (R.W.); (R.S.); (T.I.); (M.T.)
| | - Ryosuke Sato
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa 078-8510, Japan; (H.K.); (M.K.); (R.W.); (R.S.); (T.I.); (M.T.)
| | - Takahiro Inoue
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa 078-8510, Japan; (H.K.); (M.K.); (R.W.); (R.S.); (T.I.); (M.T.)
| | - Takumi Kumai
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa 078-8510, Japan; (H.K.); (M.K.); (R.W.); (R.S.); (T.I.); (M.T.)
- Department of Innovative Head & Neck Cancer Research and Treatment, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa 078-8510, Japan
| | - Miki Takahara
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa 078-8510, Japan; (H.K.); (M.K.); (R.W.); (R.S.); (T.I.); (M.T.)
- Department of Innovative Head & Neck Cancer Research and Treatment, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa 078-8510, Japan
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9
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Yi M, Li T, Niu M, Mei Q, Zhao B, Chu Q, Dai Z, Wu K. Exploiting innate immunity for cancer immunotherapy. Mol Cancer 2023; 22:187. [PMID: 38008741 PMCID: PMC10680233 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-023-01885-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunotherapies have revolutionized the treatment paradigms of various types of cancers. However, most of these immunomodulatory strategies focus on harnessing adaptive immunity, mainly by inhibiting immunosuppressive signaling with immune checkpoint blockade, or enhancing immunostimulatory signaling with bispecific T cell engager and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell. Although these agents have already achieved great success, only a tiny percentage of patients could benefit from immunotherapies. Actually, immunotherapy efficacy is determined by multiple components in the tumor microenvironment beyond adaptive immunity. Cells from the innate arm of the immune system, such as macrophages, dendritic cells, myeloid-derived suppressor cells, neutrophils, natural killer cells, and unconventional T cells, also participate in cancer immune evasion and surveillance. Considering that the innate arm is the cornerstone of the antitumor immune response, utilizing innate immunity provides potential therapeutic options for cancer control. Up to now, strategies exploiting innate immunity, such as agonists of stimulator of interferon genes, CAR-macrophage or -natural killer cell therapies, metabolic regulators, and novel immune checkpoint blockade, have exhibited potent antitumor activities in preclinical and clinical studies. Here, we summarize the latest insights into the potential roles of innate cells in antitumor immunity and discuss the advances in innate arm-targeted therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Yi
- Cancer Center, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Science, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030032, People's Republic of China
- Department of Breast Surgery, College of Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310000, People's Republic of China
| | - Tianye Li
- Department of Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310000, People's Republic of China
| | - Mengke Niu
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Qi Mei
- Cancer Center, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Science, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030032, People's Republic of China
| | - Bin Zhao
- Department of Breast Surgery, College of Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310000, People's Republic of China
| | - Qian Chu
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China.
| | - Zhijun Dai
- Department of Breast Surgery, College of Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310000, People's Republic of China.
| | - Kongming Wu
- Cancer Center, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Science, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030032, People's Republic of China.
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China.
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10
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Zhang L, Yu S, Hong S, Xiao X, Liao Z, Li Y, Xiao H. Comprehensive analysis of BTNL9 as a prognostic biomarker correlated with immune infiltrations in thyroid cancer. BMC Med Genomics 2023; 16:234. [PMID: 37798795 PMCID: PMC10552425 DOI: 10.1186/s12920-023-01676-8] [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: 04/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Thyroid cancer (THCA) is the most common type of endocrine cancers, and the disease recurrences were usually associated with the risks of metastasis and fatality. Butyrophilin-like protein 9 (BTNL9) is a member of the immunoglobulin families. This study investigated the prognostic role of BTNL9 in THCA. METHODS Gene enhancers of BTNL9 were identified by interrogating H3K27ac ChIP-seq and RNA-seq data of papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) and benign thyroid nodule (BTN) tissues. Meanwhile, BTNL9 expression level was verified by qRT-PCR in 30 pairs of primary THCA and adjacent normal tissues. Clinicopathological and RNA sequencing data were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) to analyze the relations between BTNL9 expression and immune cell infiltration, chemokines/cytokines, immune checkpoint genes, clinical parameters and prognosis values. Besides, survival analysis combining BTNL9 expression and immune cell infiltration scores was conducted. Functional enrichment analysis was performed to investigate the potential biological mechanisms. Cox regression analyses were used to explore independent clinical indicators, and a nomogram model incorporating BTNL9 expression with clinical parameters was established. RESULTS BTNL9 showed significantly stronger H3K27ac modifications in BTN than PTC tissues at the promoter region (chr5: 181,035,673-181,047,436) and gene body (chr5: 181,051,544-181,054,849). The expression levels of BTNL9 were significantly down-regulated in THCA samples compared to normal tissues, and were strongly associated with different tumor stages, immune cell infiltrations, chemokines/cytokines and immune checkpoint genes in THCA. Functional enrichment analyses indicated that BTNL9 was involved in immune-related and cancer-related pathways. The Kaplan-Meier analysis showed lower BTNL9 expression was associated with poorer progression-free interval (PFI). BTNL9 expression and pathologic stages were independent prognostic indicators of PFI in THCA. CONCLUSIONS The results implied an important role of BTNL9 in the tumor progression, with the possibility of serving as a novel prognostic biomarker and a potential therapeutic target for THCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luyao Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Shuang Yu
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Shubin Hong
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Xi Xiao
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Zhihong Liao
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Yanbing Li
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Haipeng Xiao
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China.
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11
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Pandya Shesh B, Walter V, Palsa K, Slagle-Webb B, Neely E, Schell T, Connor JR. Sexually dimorphic effect of H-ferritin genetic manipulation on survival and tumor microenvironment in a mouse model of glioblastoma. J Neurooncol 2023; 164:569-586. [PMID: 37812288 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-023-04415-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Iron plays a crucial role in various biological mechanisms and has been found to promote tumor growth. Recent research has shown that the H-ferritin (FTH1) protein, traditionally recognized as an essential iron storage protein, can transport iron to GBM cancer stem cells, reducing their invasion activity. Moreover, the binding of extracellular FTH1 to human GBM tissues, and brain iron delivery in general, has been found to have a sex bias. These observations raise questions, addressed in this study, about whether H-ferritin levels extrinsic to the tumor can affect tumor cell pathways and if this impact is sex-specific. METHODS To interrogate the role of systemic H-ferritin in GBM we introduce a mouse model in which H-ferritin levels are genetically manipulated. Mice that were genetically manipulated to be heterozygous for H-ferritin (Fth1+/-) gene expression were orthotopically implanted with a mouse GBM cell line (GL261). Littermate Fth1 +/+ mice were used as controls. The animals were evaluated for survival and the tumors were subjected to RNA sequencing protocols. We analyzed the resulting data utilizing the murine Microenvironment Cell Population (mMCP) method for in silico immune deconvolution. mMCP analysis estimates the abundance of tissue infiltrating immune and stromal populations based on cell-specific gene expression signatures. RESULTS There was a clear sex bias in survival. Female Fth1+/- mice had significantly poorer survival than control females (Fth1+/+). The Fth1 genetic status did not affect survival in males. The mMCP analysis revealed a significant reduction in T cells and CD8 + T cell infiltration in the tumors of females with Fth1+/- background as compared to the Fth1+/+. Mast and fibroblast cell infiltration was increased in females and males with Fth1+/- background, respectively, compared to Fth1+/+ mice. CONCLUSION Genetic manipulation of Fth1 which leads to reduced systemic levels of FTH1 protein had a sexually dimorphic impact on survival. Fth1 heterozygosity significantly worsened survival in females but did not affect survival in male GBMs. Furthermore, the genetic manipulation of Fth1 significantly affected tumor infiltration of T-cells, CD8 + T cells, fibroblasts, and mast cells in a sexually dimorphic manner. These results demonstrate a role for FTH1 and presumably iron status in establishing the tumor cellular landscape that ultimately impacts survival and further reveals a sex bias that may inform the population studies showing a sex effect on the prevalence of brain tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vonn Walter
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Kondaiah Palsa
- Department of Neurosurgery, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Becky Slagle-Webb
- Department of Neurosurgery, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Elizabeth Neely
- Department of Neurosurgery, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Todd Schell
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - James R Connor
- Department of Neurosurgery, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA.
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12
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Oh SG, Choi JY, Lee JE, Jeon S, Lee BR, Son KH, Lee SB, An BS, Hwang DY, Kim SJ, Ha KT, Lee J, Jeon YH. Visualizing mast cell migration to tumor sites using sodium iodide symporter of nuclear medicine reporter gene. Neoplasia 2023; 43:100925. [PMID: 37562258 PMCID: PMC10423699 DOI: 10.1016/j.neo.2023.100925] [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: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Owing to the close relationship between mast cells and cancer progression, an imaging technique that can be applied in a clinical setting to explore the biological behavior of mast cells in the tumor microenvironment is needed. In this study, we visualized mast cell migration to lung tumor lesions in live mice using sodium iodide symporter (NIS) as a nuclear medicine reporter gene. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN The murine mast cell line MC-9 was infected with retrovirus including NIS, luciferase (as a surrogate marker for NIS), and Thy1.1 to generate MC-9/NFT cells. Radioiodine uptake was measured in MC-9/NFT cells, and an inhibition assay of radioiodine uptake using KCLO4 was also performed. Cell proliferation and FcεRI expression was examined in MC-9 and MC-9/NFT cells. The effect of mast cell-conditioned media (CM) on the proliferation of Lewis lung cancer (LLC) cells was examined. The migration level of MC-9/NFT cells was confirmed in the presence of serum-free media (SFM) and CM of cancer cells. After intravenous injection of MC-9/NFT cells into mice with an LLC tumor, I-124 PET/CT and biodistribution analysis was performed. RESULTS MC-9/NFT cells exhibited higher radioiodine avidity compared to parental MC-9 cells; this increased radioiodine avidity in MC-9/NFT cells was reduced to basal level by KCLO4. Levels of FcεRI expression and cell proliferation were not different in parental MC-9 cell and MC-9/ NFT cells. The CM of MC-9/NFT cells increased cancer cell proliferation relative to that of the SFM. The migration level of MC-9/NFT cells was higher in the CM than the SFM of LLC cells. PET/CT imaging with I-124 clearly showed infiltration of reporter mast cells in lung tumor at 24 h after transfer, which was consistent with the findings of the biodistribution examination. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that the sodium iodide symporter can serve as a reliable nuclear medicine reporter gene for non-invasively imaging the biological activity of mast cells in mice with lung tumors. Visualizing mast cells in the tumor microenvironment via a nuclear medicine reporter gene would provide valuable insights into their biological functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seul-Gi Oh
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Kyungpook National University Hospital, Daegu, Republic of Korea; Institute of Breast Cancer Precision Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jun Young Choi
- Preclincial Research Center (PRC), Daegu-Gyeongbuk Medical Innovation Foundation (K-MEDI hub), Daegu, Republic of Korea; Department of Biomaterials Science (BK21 FOUR Program), Life and Industry Convergence Research Institute, College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Pusan National University, Miryang 50463, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Eon Lee
- Preclincial Research Center (PRC), Daegu-Gyeongbuk Medical Innovation Foundation (K-MEDI hub), Daegu, Republic of Korea; Department of Biomaterials Science (BK21 FOUR Program), Life and Industry Convergence Research Institute, College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Pusan National University, Miryang 50463, Republic of Korea
| | - SoYeon Jeon
- Preclincial Research Center (PRC), Daegu-Gyeongbuk Medical Innovation Foundation (K-MEDI hub), Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Bo-Ra Lee
- Preclincial Research Center (PRC), Daegu-Gyeongbuk Medical Innovation Foundation (K-MEDI hub), Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwang Hee Son
- Preclincial Research Center (PRC), Daegu-Gyeongbuk Medical Innovation Foundation (K-MEDI hub), Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Bong Lee
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Kyungpook National University Hospital, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Beum-Soo An
- Department of Biomaterials Science (BK21 FOUR Program), Life and Industry Convergence Research Institute, College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Pusan National University, Miryang 50463, Republic of Korea
| | - Dae Youn Hwang
- Department of Biomaterials Science (BK21 FOUR Program), Life and Industry Convergence Research Institute, College of Natural Resources and Life Science, Pusan National University, Miryang 50463, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong-Jang Kim
- Pusan National University College of Medicine, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki-Tae Ha
- Department of Korean Medicine, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, Yangsan 50612, Gyeongsangnam-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaetae Lee
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Kyungpook National University Hospital, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong Hyun Jeon
- Preclincial Research Center (PRC), Daegu-Gyeongbuk Medical Innovation Foundation (K-MEDI hub), Daegu, Republic of Korea.
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13
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Modestino L, Cristinziano L, Poto R, Ventrici A, Trocchia M, Ferrari SM, Fallahi P, Paparo SR, Marone G, Antonelli A, Varricchi G, Galdiero MR. Neutrophil extracellular traps and neutrophil-related mediators in human thyroid cancer. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1167404. [PMID: 37705974 PMCID: PMC10495767 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1167404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs) are the main effector cells in inflammatory responses and play multiple roles in thyroid cancer (TC). PMNs contain and release a plethora of mediators, including granular enzymes [e.g., myeloperoxidase (MPO), pentraxin-3 (PTX3) and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9)], and neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). The aim of this study was to evaluate NETs and neutrophil-derived mediators as possible biomarkers in TC patients. Methods 20 patients with differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC), 26 patients with dedifferentiated thyroid cancer (De-DTC), 26 patients with multinodular goiter (MNG) and 22 healthy controls (HCs) were recruited. Serum concentrations of free DNA (dsDNA), nucleosomes, citrullinated histone H3 (CitH3) and MPO-DNA complexes were evaluated as NET biomarkers. Neutrophil-related mediators such as MPO, PTX3, MMP-9, CXCL8, and granulocyte-monocyte colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) were measured by ELISA. Results Serum levels of all four NET biomarkers were increased in DeDTC patients compared to HCs. CitH3 serum levels were selectively increased in both DeDTC and DTC patients compared to HCs and MNG patients. MPO-DNA complexes and nucleosomes were selectively increased only in DeDTC patients compared to HCs and MNG patients. Moreover, MPO-DNA complexes were selectively increased in DeDTC patients compared to DTC patients also. MPO circulating levels were selectively increased in the DeDTC patient subgroup compared to HCs. Circulating levels of PTX3, MMP-9 and GM-CSF were increased in DTC and DeDTC patients compared to HCs. Nucleosomes positively correlated with dsDNA, CitH3, MPO and CXCL8. MPO-DNA complexes positively correlated with dsDNA, CitH3, CXCL8, MPO and nucleosome levels. Moreover, three out of the four NET biomarkers (i.e., dsDNA, nucleosomes and MPO-DNA complexes) were increased in elderly patients compared to young patients and in patients with metastatic disease at diagnosis compared to non metastatic patients. Nucleosomes were higher in males compared to females. Conclusion MPO-DNA complexes, nucleosomes and, to some extent, CitH3 levels seem to correlate with malignancy and severity of progressive TC. Moreover, serum concentrations of PMN-related mediators (MPO, PTX3, GM-CSF) were increased in TCs compared to MNG and HCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Modestino
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences (DiSMeT), University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- Center for Basic and Clinical Immunology Research (CISI), University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- World Allergy Organization Center of Excellence, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Leonardo Cristinziano
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences (DiSMeT), University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- Center for Basic and Clinical Immunology Research (CISI), University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- World Allergy Organization Center of Excellence, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Remo Poto
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences (DiSMeT), University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- Center for Basic and Clinical Immunology Research (CISI), University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- World Allergy Organization Center of Excellence, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Annagioia Ventrici
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences (DiSMeT), University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- Center for Basic and Clinical Immunology Research (CISI), University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- World Allergy Organization Center of Excellence, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Marialuisa Trocchia
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences (DiSMeT), University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- Center for Basic and Clinical Immunology Research (CISI), University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- World Allergy Organization Center of Excellence, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Poupak Fallahi
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Sabrina Rosaria Paparo
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Area, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Gianni Marone
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences (DiSMeT), University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- Center for Basic and Clinical Immunology Research (CISI), University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- World Allergy Organization Center of Excellence, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology (IEOS), National Research Council (CNR), Naples, Italy
| | - Alessandro Antonelli
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Area, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Gilda Varricchi
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences (DiSMeT), University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- Center for Basic and Clinical Immunology Research (CISI), University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- World Allergy Organization Center of Excellence, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology (IEOS), National Research Council (CNR), Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Rosaria Galdiero
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences (DiSMeT), University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- Center for Basic and Clinical Immunology Research (CISI), University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- World Allergy Organization Center of Excellence, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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14
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Liu X, Li X, Wei H, Liu Y, Li N. Mast cells in colorectal cancer tumour progression, angiogenesis, and lymphangiogenesis. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1209056. [PMID: 37497234 PMCID: PMC10366593 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1209056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The characteristics of the tumour cells, as well as how tumour cells interact with their surroundings, affect the prognosis of cancer patients. The resident cells in the tumour microenvironment are mast cells (MCs), which are known for their functions in allergic responses, but their functions in the cancer milieu have been hotly contested. Several studies have revealed a link between MCs and the development of tumours. Mast cell proliferation in colorectal cancer (CRC) is correlated with angiogenesis, the number of lymph nodes to which the malignancy has spread, and patient prognosis. By releasing angiogenic factors (VEGF-A, CXCL 8, MMP-9, etc.) and lymphangiogenic factors (VEGF-C, VEGF-D, etc.) stored in granules, mast cells play a significant role in the development of CRC. On the other hand, MCs can actively encourage tumour development via pathways including the c-kit/SCF-dependent signaling cascade and histamine production. The impact of MC-derived mediators on tumour growth, the prognostic importance of MCs in patients with various stages of colorectal cancer, and crosstalk between MCs and CRC cells in the tumour microenvironment are discussed in this article. We acknowledge the need for a deeper comprehension of the function of MCs in CRC and the possibility that targeting MCs might be a useful therapeutic approach in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxin Liu
- Department of Nephrology, Liyuan Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Xinyu Li
- Department of Nephrology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Haotian Wei
- Department of Nephrology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yanyan Liu
- Department of Nephrology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Ningxu Li
- Department of Nephrology, Liyuan Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
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15
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Sulsenti R, Jachetti E. Frenemies in the Microenvironment: Harnessing Mast Cells for Cancer Immunotherapy. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:1692. [PMID: 37376140 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15061692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor development, progression, and resistance to therapies are influenced by the interactions between tumor cells and the surrounding microenvironment, comprising fibroblasts, immune cells, and extracellular matrix proteins. In this context, mast cells (MCs) have recently emerged as important players. Yet, their role is still controversial, as MCs can exert pro- or anti-tumor functions in different tumor types depending on their location within or around the tumor mass and their interaction with other components of the tumor microenvironment. In this review, we describe the main aspects of MC biology and the different contribution of MCs in promoting or inhibiting cancer growth. We then discuss possible therapeutic strategies aimed at targeting MCs for cancer immunotherapy, which include: (1) targeting c-Kit signaling; (2) stabilizing MC degranulation; (3) triggering activating/inhibiting receptors; (4) modulating MC recruitment; (5) harnessing MC mediators; (6) adoptive transferring of MCs. Such strategies should aim to either restrain or sustain MC activity according to specific contexts. Further investigation would allow us to better dissect the multifaceted roles of MCs in cancer and tailor novel approaches for an "MC-guided" personalized medicine to be used in combination with conventional anti-cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Sulsenti
- Molecular Immunology Unit, Department of Experimental Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Jachetti
- Molecular Immunology Unit, Department of Experimental Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, 20133 Milan, Italy
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16
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Song M, Liu Q, Sun W, Zhang H. Crosstalk between Thyroid Carcinoma and Tumor-Correlated Immune Cells in the Tumor Microenvironment. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:2863. [PMID: 37345200 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15102863] [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: 03/11/2023] [Revised: 05/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Thyroid cancer (TC) is the most common malignancy in the endocrine system. Although most TC can achieve a desirable prognosis, some refractory thyroid carcinomas, including radioiodine-refractory differentiated thyroid cancer, as well as anaplastic thyroid carcinoma, face a myriad of difficulties in clinical treatment. These types of tumors contribute to the majority of TC deaths due to limited initial therapy, recurrence, and metastasis of the tumor and tumor resistance to current clinically targeted drugs, which ultimately lead to treatment failure. At present, a growing number of studies have demonstrated crosstalk between TC and tumor-associated immune cells, which affects tumor deterioration and metastasis through distinct signal transduction or receptor activation. Current immunotherapy focuses primarily on cutting off the interaction between tumor cells and immune cells. Since the advent of immunotherapy, scholars have discovered targets for TC immunotherapy, which also provides new strategies for TC treatment. This review methodically and intensively summarizes the current understanding and mechanism of the crosstalk between distinct types of TC and immune cells, as well as potential immunotherapy strategies and clinical research results in the area of the tumor immune microenvironment. We aim to explore the current research advances to formulate better individualized treatment strategies for TC patients and to provide clues and references for the study of potential immune checkpoints and the development of immunotherapy technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingyuan Song
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, The First Hospital of China Medical University, 155 Nanjing North Street, Shenyang 110001, China
| | - Qi Liu
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, The First Hospital of China Medical University, 155 Nanjing North Street, Shenyang 110001, China
| | - Wei Sun
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, The First Hospital of China Medical University, 155 Nanjing North Street, Shenyang 110001, China
| | - Hao Zhang
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, The First Hospital of China Medical University, 155 Nanjing North Street, Shenyang 110001, China
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17
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Ribatti D. Mast Cells and Resistance to Immunotherapy in Cancer. Arch Immunol Ther Exp (Warsz) 2023; 71:11. [PMID: 37038035 PMCID: PMC10085948 DOI: 10.1007/s00005-023-00676-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/12/2023]
Abstract
Mast cells are involved in tumor growth and their mediators exert both pro- and anti-tumorigenic roles in different human cancers. The identification of defined immunosuppressive pathways that are present in the tumor microenvironment has pointed therapeutic strategies that may promote inflammation and/or innate immune activation in this context. Mast cells can contribute to the immune suppressive tumor microenvironment and may also enhance anti-tumor responses. This review article is focused on the analysis of the mechanisms of the role of mast cells in resistance to immunotherapy in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Domenico Ribatti
- Department of Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience, University of Bari Medical School, Piazza Giulio Cesare, 11, 70125, Bari, Italy.
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18
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Liang S, Xu Q, Liu B, Hu R, Lai J, Wang W, Yu X, Gou J, Wang L, Chen Y, Ji Q, Zhou J. DACH1 inhibits the proliferation and migration of papillary thyroid carcinoma. Cell Biol Int 2023; 47:612-621. [PMID: 36511182 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.11961] [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: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
DACH1 is an important component of the retinal determinate gene network (RDGN), which regulates the expression of target genes by directly binding or interacting with other factors. DACH1 shows inhibitory effects in most tumors, but its role in papillary thyroid carcinoma is unclear and warrants further investigation. We assessed the expression of DACH1 in different tissues and correlation with immune infiltration by The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Tumor Immune Estimation Resource (TIMMER2.0 databases). The effects of DACH1 on the proliferation and migration of TPC-1 and Bcpap cells were assessed by cell viability assay, colony formation assay, wound healing assay, transwell migration assay, and flow cytometry. Finally, the effects of DACH1 on CXCL8, CXCL10, and CXCL12 expression in Nthy-ori-3-1, TPC-1 and Bcpap cells were assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit and real-time polymerase chain reaction, respectively. The results showed that DACH1 was differentially expressed in different tumors and tissues. Basal expression of DACH1 was lower in thyroid and papillary thyroid carcinoma than in other normal tissues and corresponding tumors, and positively correlated with CD8+ T cell infiltration. In Nthy-ori-3-1, TPC-1 and Bcpap cells, overexpression of DACH1 inhibited cell migration and proliferation, and the opposite results was obtained by knocking down DACH1 using small interfering RNA. We also demonstrated that DACH1 regulated chemokines CXCL8, CXCL10, and CXCL12, thereby modulating tumor immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengru Liang
- Department of Endocrinology, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China.,Department of Endocrinology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Qian Xu
- Department of Endocrinology, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Boyun Liu
- School of Basic Medicine, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Ruofan Hu
- Department of Endocrinology, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jingbo Lai
- Department of Endocrinology, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xinwen Yu
- Department of Endocrinology, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jiakun Gou
- Department of Endocrinology, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Li Wang
- Department of Endocrinology, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yanyan Chen
- Department of Endocrinology, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Qiuhe Ji
- Department of Endocrinology, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jie Zhou
- Department of Endocrinology, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, China
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Hu H, Chen Q, Zheng S, Du S, Ding S, Lun Y. Transcriptome Analysis Revealed Potential Neuro-Immune Interaction in Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma Tissues. Diseases 2023; 11:diseases11010009. [PMID: 36648874 PMCID: PMC9844349 DOI: 10.3390/diseases11010009] [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: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A recent study reported that papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) was associated with increased adrenergic nerve density. Meanwhile, emerging evidence suggested that tumor-innervating nerves might play a role in shaping the tumor microenvironment. We aimed to explore the potential interaction between neuronal markers and tumor microenvironmental signatures through a transcriptomic approach. METHODS mRNA sequencing was conducted using five pairs of PTC and adjacent normal tissues. The Gene Set Variation Analysis (GSVA) was performed to calculate enrichment scores of gene sets related to tumor-infiltrating immune cells and the tumor microenvironment. The potential interaction was tested using the expression levels of a series of neuronal markers and gene set enrichment scores. RESULTS PTC tissues were associated with increased enrichment scores of CD8 T cells, cancer-associated fibroblasts, mast cells, and checkpoint molecules. The neuronal marker for cholinergic neurons was positively correlated with CD8 T cell activation, while markers for serotonergic and dopaminergic neurons showed an inverse correlation. CONCLUSION Distinct neuronal markers exerted different correlations with tumor microenvironmental signatures. Tumor-innervating nerves might play a role in the formation of the PTC microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haibei Hu
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Shenzhen Hospital (Guangming), University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518107, China
- Key Laboratory of Medical Microecology, School of Pharmacy and Medical Technology, Putian University, Putian 351100, China
| | - Qiang Chen
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Shenzhen Hospital (Guangming), University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518107, China
| | - Siqi Zheng
- Department of Child Healthcare, Shenzhen Guangming Maternity & Child Healthcare Hospital, Shenzhen 518107, China
| | - Shan Du
- Department of Pathology, Shenzhen Hospital (Guangming), University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518107, China
| | - Siqin Ding
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Shenzhen Hospital (Guangming), University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen 518107, China
| | - Yongzhi Lun
- Key Laboratory of Medical Microecology, School of Pharmacy and Medical Technology, Putian University, Putian 351100, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel./Fax: +86-594-2613192
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20
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Mast cells inhibit colorectal cancer development by inducing ER stress through secreting Cystatin C. Oncogene 2023; 42:209-223. [PMID: 36402931 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-022-02543-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Mast cells (MCs) are abundantly distributed in the human intestinal mucosa and submucosa. However, their roles and mechanisms in the development of colorectal cancer (CRC) are still unclear. In the present research, we found that the infiltration density of MCs in CRC tissues was positively correlated with improved patients' prognoses. Moreover, MCs suppressed the growth and induced the apoptosis of CRC cells in vitro and in vivo but had no effect on normal colonic epithelial cells. The present study revealed that MCs specifically induced endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) and activated the unfolded protein response (UPR) in CRC cells but not in normal cells, which led to the suppression of CRC development in vivo. Furthermore, we found that the secreted Cystatin C protein was the key factor for the MC-induced ERS in CRC cells. This work is of significance for uncovering the antitumor function of MCs in CRC progression and identifying the potential of CRC to respond to MC-targeted immunotherapy.
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PD-1 + mast cell enhanced by PD-1 blocking therapy associated with resistance to immunotherapy. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2023; 72:633-645. [PMID: 36018370 PMCID: PMC9947072 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-022-03282-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) antibody has been approved for a variety of tumors, but its effective rate is unsatisfactory. New evidence suggests that mast cells are an important component of the tumor microenvironment and are associated with resistance to immunotherapy, but the underlying mechanism is not clear. METHODS Bioinformatics analysis of patients with melanoma in TCGA-SKCM and GSE91061 was used to determine the prognostic value of mast cells and their association with anti-PD-1 immunotherapy. HMC-1 cells (mast cell line) and bone marrow-derived mast cells (BMMCs) were used to verify the effect of PD-1 antibody and cromolyn sodium in vitro. The mouse subcutaneous melanoma model was used to verify the effect of the PD-1 antibody on mast cells in vivo. RESULTS Bioinformatics analysis showed that mast cells were a poor prognostic factor associated with resistance to anti-PD-1 immunotherapy. PD-1 was expressed on the mast cell membrane. The PD-1 antibody promoted the release of histamine and cytokines from mast cells via the PI3K/AKT pathway and calcium signaling pathway. The activation of mast cells induced by PD-1 antibody could be partially inhibited by cromolyn sodium. In vivo, cromolyn sodium increased the efficacy of PD-1 antibody and decreased the infiltration of mast cells and the density of microvessels. CONCLUSION PD-1+ mast cell activated by PD-1 antibody plays a negative role in the tumor microenvironment via the enhanced function of releasing histamine and cytokines. Inhibition of mast cell may provide a new solution to solve the low response rate of anti-PD-1 immunotherapy.
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Hou Y, Wang Q, Su L, Zhu Y, Xiao Y, Feng F. Increased tumor-associated mast cells facilitate thyroid cancer progression by inhibiting CD8+ T cell function through galectin-9. Braz J Med Biol Res 2023; 56:e12370. [PMID: 37042867 PMCID: PMC10085758 DOI: 10.1590/1414-431x2023e12370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2023] Open
Abstract
As an important component of solid tumors, mast cells show specific phenotypes in various tumor microenvironments. However, the precise mechanism of mast cell accumulation and the phenotypic features of thyroid cancer (TC) remain largely unknown. Here, we found that mast cells were obviously recruited to tumor tissue by TC-derived stem cell factor (SCF). With tumor progression, mast cell levels increased gradually. In addition, intratumoral mast cells expressed higher levels of the immunosuppressive molecule galectin-9, which effectively suppresses CD8+ T-cell antitumor immunity in vitro. Blocking galectin-9 on tumor-infiltrating mast cells reversed the immunosuppression of CD8+ T cells. In conclusion, our data elucidated novel protumorigenic and immunosuppressive roles of mast cells in TC. In addition, our results indicated that blocking mast cells may impede tumor progression and ameliorate the prognosis of TC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanli Hou
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, Chongqing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing, China
| | - Qiang Wang
- Department of Orthodontics, Deyang Stomatological Hospital, Deyang, Sichuan, China
| | - Li Su
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, Chongqing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing, China
| | - Ying Zhu
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, Chongqing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing, China
| | - Yun Xiao
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, Chongqing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing, China
| | - Fei Feng
- Department of Oncology and Hematology, Chongqing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing, China
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Shi S, Ye L, Yu X, Jin K, Wu W. Focus on mast cells in the tumor microenvironment: Current knowledge and future directions. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2023; 1878:188845. [PMID: 36476563 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2022.188845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Mast cells (MCs) are crucial cells participating in both innate and adaptive immune processes that play important roles in protecting human health and in the pathophysiology of various diseases, such as allergies, cardiovascular diseases, and autoimmune diseases. In the context of tumors, MCs are a non-negligible population of immune cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME). In most tumor types, MCs accumulate in both the tumor tissue and the surrounding tissue. MCs interact with multiple components of the TME, affecting TME remodeling and the tumor cell fate. However, controversy persists regarding whether MCs contribute to tumor progression or trigger an anti-tumor immune response. This review focuses on the context of the TME to explore the specific properties and functions of MCs and discusses the crosstalk that occurs between MCs and other components of the TME, which affect tumor angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis, invasion and metastasis, and tumor immunity through different mechanisms. We also anticipate the potential role of MCs in cancer immunotherapy, which might expand upon the success achieved with existing cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saimeng Shi
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Longyun Ye
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Xianjun Yu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
| | - Kaizhou Jin
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
| | - Weiding Wu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai 200032, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
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Chen ZH, Yue HR, Li JH, Jiang RY, Wang XN, Zhou XJ, Yu Y, Cao XC. HS3ST3A1 and CAPN8 Serve as Immune-Related Biomarkers for Predicting the Prognosis in Thyroid Cancer. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2022; 2022:6724295. [PMID: 36590308 PMCID: PMC9800087 DOI: 10.1155/2022/6724295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Background Thyroid cancer (TC) tends to be a common malignancy worldwide and results in various outcomes due to its different subtypes. The tumor microenvironment (TME) was demonstrated to play crucial roles in various malignancies, including thyroid cancer. This study combined the ESTIMATE and CIBERSORT algorithms, identified four TME-related genes, and evaluated their correlation with clinical characteristics. These findings revealed the malignant performance of TME in TC, and the TME-related DEGs might serve as prognostic biomarkers, which can be utilized for the prediction of immunotherapy effects in patients with TC. Methods The clinical and gene expression profiles of TC patients were collected from the TCGA dataset. The ESTIMATE algorithm was utilized to estimate stromal and immune scores and predict the level of stromal and immune cell infiltration. The differential expressed genes related to TME were filtered by the "limma" package in R, and the PPI network was constructed by a string website. KEGG pathway and GO analyses were performed to investigate the biological progression and molecular functions of TME-related DEGs. Then, univariate Cox regression analysis was employed to screen four genes correlated with clinical characteristics. GSEA was conducted to assess their roles in the TME of TC. To further investigate the association between TME-related genes and tumor-infiltrating immune cells (TIICs), the CIBERSORT algorithm was performed. Finally, the malignancy behaviors of the two genes were verified by RT-qPCR, IHC, MTT, colony formation, and transwell assays. Results Four TME-related DEGs, LRRN4CL, HS3ST3A1, PCOLCE2, and CAPN8, were identified and were significantly predictive of poor overall survival. KEGG and GO pathway analysis established that the TME-related DEGs were involved in immune responses and pathways in cancer. Furthermore, the malignancy behaviors of HS3ST3A1 and CAPN8 were verified by cellular functional experiments. These results revealed that the TME-related genes HS3ST3A1 and CAPN8 were able to serve as predictors of prognosis in patients with TC. Conclusion HS3ST3A1 and CAPN8 may serve as valuable prognostic biomarkers and TME indicators, which can be utilized for the prediction of immunotherapy effects and provide novel treatment strategies for patients with TC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhao-Hui Chen
- The First Department of Breast Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin Medical University, Ministry of Education, Tianjin 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin 300060, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Hao-Ran Yue
- The First Department of Breast Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin Medical University, Ministry of Education, Tianjin 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin 300060, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Jun-Hui Li
- The First Department of Breast Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin Medical University, Ministry of Education, Tianjin 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin 300060, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Ruo-Yu Jiang
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Xiao-Ning Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin 300052, China
| | - Xue-Jie Zhou
- The First Department of Breast Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin Medical University, Ministry of Education, Tianjin 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin 300060, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Yue Yu
- The First Department of Breast Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin Medical University, Ministry of Education, Tianjin 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin 300060, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Xu-Chen Cao
- The First Department of Breast Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin Medical University, Ministry of Education, Tianjin 300060, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin 300060, China
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China
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Wang K, Li H, Zhao J, Yao J, Lu Y, Dong J, Bai J, Liao L. Potential diagnostic of lymph node metastasis and prognostic values of TM4SFs in papillary thyroid carcinoma patients. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:1001954. [PMID: 36568979 PMCID: PMC9773885 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.1001954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Although the prognosis of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is relatively good, it causes around 41,000 deaths per year, which is likely related to recurrence and metastasis. Lymph node metastasis (LNM) is an important indicator of PTC recurrence and transmembrane 4 superfamily (TM4SF) proteins regulate metastasis by modulating cell adhesion, migration, tissue differentiation, and tumor invasion. However, the diagnostic and prognostic values of TM4SF in PTC remain unclear. Methods: This study aimed to identify TM4SF genes with predictive value for LNM and prognostic value in PTC using bioinformatic analysis. We screened the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of the TM4SF family in PTC using data from TCGA, constructed a PPI network using STRING, and evaluated the predictive role of TM4SF1 in LNM via a binary logistic regression analysis and ROC curve. We assessed the association between TM4SF1 expression and DNA methylation, and determined the functional and mechanistic role of TM4SF1 in promoting LNM via GSEA, KEGG, and GO. We estimated the relationship between each TM4SF gene and overall survival (OS, estimated by Kaplan-Meier analysis) in patients with PTC and established a predictive model of prognostic indicators using a LASSO penalized Cox analysis to identify hub genes. Finally, we explored the correlation between TM4SFs and TMB/MSI. Results: We identified 21 DEGs from the 41 TM4SFs between N0 (without LNM) and N1 (with LNM) patients, with TM4SF1, TM4SF4, UPK1B, and CD151 being highly expressed in the N1 group; several DEGs were observed in the TNM, T, and N cancer stages. The "integrins and other cell-surface receptors" pathway was the most significantly enriched functional category related to LNM and TM4SFs. TM4SF1 was identified as an indicator of LNM (AUC= 0.702). High levels of TM4SF1 might be related to Wnt/β-catenin pathway and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process in PTC. The higher expression of TM4SF1 was also related to DNA promoter hypomethylation. CD9, TM4SF4, TSPAN2, and TSPAN16 were associated with OS in PTC patients and TSPAN2 has great potential to become a prognostic marker of PTC progression. For the prognostic model, the riskscore = (-0.0058)*CD82+(-0.4994)*+(0.1584)*TSPAN11+(1.7597)*TSPAN19+(0.2694)*TSPAN2 (lambda.min = 0.0149). The AUCs for 3-year, 5-year, and 10-year OS were 0.81, 0.851, and 0.804. TSPAN18, TSPAN31, and TSPAN32 were associated with both TMB and MSI in PTC patients. Conclusion: Our findings identified TM4SF1 as a potential diagnostic marker of LNM and TSPAN2 as a prognostic factor for patients with PTC. Our study provides a novel strategy to assess prognosis and predict effective treatments in PTC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Wang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabology, Liaocheng People’s Hospital, Liaocheng, Shandong, China,Department of Endocrinology and Metabology, Shandong Qianfoshan Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Haomin Li
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabology, Liaocheng People’s Hospital, Liaocheng, Shandong, China
| | - Junyu Zhao
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jinming Yao
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yiran Lu
- Department of Endocrinology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jianjun Dong
- Department of Endocrinology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jie Bai
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabology, Liaocheng People’s Hospital, Liaocheng, Shandong, China,*Correspondence: Jie Bai, ; Lin Liao,
| | - Lin Liao
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabology, Shandong Qianfoshan Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China,Department of Endocrinology and Metabology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan, Shandong, China,*Correspondence: Jie Bai, ; Lin Liao,
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Ma C, Luo H. A more novel and robust gene signature predicts outcome in patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Clin Res Hepatol Gastroenterol 2022; 46:102033. [PMID: 36265781 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinre.2022.102033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is a life-threatening thoracic tumor with a poor prognosis. The tumor microenvironment (TME) mainly comprises tumor cells and tumor-infiltrating immune cells mixed with stromal components. The latest research has displayed that tumor immune cell infiltration (ICI) is closely connected with the ESCC patients' clinical prognosis. This study was designed to construct a gene signature based on the ICI of ESCC to predict prognosis. METHODS Based on the selection criteria we set, the eligible ESCC cases from the GSE53625 and TCGA-ESCA datasets were chosen for the training cohort and the validation cohort, respectively. Unsupervised clustering detailed grouped ESCC cases of the training cohort based on the ICI profile. We determined the differential expression genes (DEGs) between the ICI clusters, and, subsequently, we adopted the univariate Cox analysis to recognize DEGs with prognostic potential. These screened DEGs underwent a Lasso regression, which then generated a gene signature. The harvested signature's predictive ability was further examined by the Kaplan-Meier analysis, Cox analysis, ROC, IAUC, and IBS. More importantly, we listed similar studies in the most recent year and compared theirs with ours. We performed the functional annotation, immune relevant signature correlation analysis, and immune infiltrating analysis to thoroughly understand the functional mechanism of the signature and the immune cells' roles in the gene signature's predicting capacity. RESULTS A sixteen-gene signature (ARSD, BCAT1, BIK, CLDN11, DLEU7-AS1, GGH, IGFBP2, LINC01037, LINC01446, LINC01497, M1AP, PCSK2, PCSK5, PPP2R2A, TIGD7, and TMSB4X) was generated from the Lasso model. We then confirmed the signature as having solid and stable prognostic capacity by several statistical methods. We revealed the superiority of our signature after comparing it to our predecessors, and the GSEA uncovered the specifically mechanism of action related to the gene signature. Two immune relevant signatures, including GZMA and LAG3 were identified associating with our signature. The immune-infiltrating analysis identified crucial roles of resting mast cells, which potentially support the sixteen-gene signature's prognosis ability. CONCLUSIONS We discovered a robust sixteen-gene signature that can accurately predict ESCC prognosis. The immune relevant signatures, GZMA and LAG3, and resting mast cells infiltrating were closely linked to the sixteen-gene signature's ability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Ma
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.
| | - Huan Luo
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and the Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany.
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Poto R, Criscuolo G, Marone G, Brightling CE, Varricchi G. Human Lung Mast Cells: Therapeutic Implications in Asthma. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:14466. [PMID: 36430941 PMCID: PMC9693207 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232214466] [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: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Mast cells are strategically located in different compartments of the lung in asthmatic patients. These cells are widely recognized as central effectors and immunomodulators in different asthma phenotypes. Mast cell mediators activate a wide spectrum of cells of the innate and adaptive immune system during airway inflammation. Moreover, these cells modulate the activities of several structural cells (i.e., fibroblasts, airway smooth muscle cells, bronchial epithelial and goblet cells, and endothelial cells) in the human lung. These findings indicate that lung mast cells and their mediators significantly contribute to the immune induction of airway remodeling in severe asthma. Therapies targeting mast cell mediators and/or their receptors, including monoclonal antibodies targeting IgE, IL-4/IL-13, IL-5/IL-5Rα, IL-4Rα, TSLP, and IL-33, have been found safe and effective in the treatment of different phenotypes of asthma. Moreover, agonists of inhibitory receptors expressed by human mast cells (Siglec-8, Siglec-6) are under investigation for asthma treatment. Increasing evidence suggests that different approaches to depleting mast cells show promising results in severe asthma treatment. Novel treatments targeting mast cells can presumably change the course of the disease and induce drug-free remission in bronchial asthma. Here, we provide an overview of current and promising treatments for asthma that directly or indirectly target lung mast cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Remo Poto
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
- Center for Basic and Clinical Immunology Research (CISI), University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Gjada Criscuolo
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
- Center for Basic and Clinical Immunology Research (CISI), University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Gianni Marone
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
- Center for Basic and Clinical Immunology Research (CISI), University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
- World Allergy Organization (WAO), Center of Excellence (CoE), 80131 Naples, Italy
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology “G. Salvatore”, National Research Council (CNR), 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Chris E. Brightling
- Department of Respiratory Sciences, Leicester NIHR BRC, Institute for Lung Health, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK
| | - Gilda Varricchi
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
- Center for Basic and Clinical Immunology Research (CISI), University of Naples Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
- World Allergy Organization (WAO), Center of Excellence (CoE), 80131 Naples, Italy
- Institute of Experimental Endocrinology and Oncology “G. Salvatore”, National Research Council (CNR), 80131 Naples, Italy
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Mast Cells and Interleukins. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232214004. [PMID: 36430483 PMCID: PMC9697830 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232214004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Mast cells play a critical role in inflammatory diseases and tumor growth. The versatility of mast cells is reflected in their ability to secrete a wide range of biologically active cytokines, including interleukins, chemokines, lipid mediators, proteases, and biogenic amines. The aim of this review article is to analyze the complex involvement of mast cells in the secretion of interleukins and the role of interleukins in the regulation of biological activities of mast cells.
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Shin E, Koo JS. Cell Component and Function of Tumor Microenvironment in Thyroid Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232012578. [PMID: 36293435 PMCID: PMC9604510 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232012578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Thyroid cancer is the most common cancer in the endocrine system. Most thyroid cancers have good prognosis, but some of them are resistant to treatment or show aggressive behavior. Like other tumors, thyroid cancers harbor tumor microenvironment (TME) composed of cancer associated fibroblasts (CAF) and immune cells. Autoimmune lymphocytic thyroiditis can occur in the thyroid, and it may be associated with cancer development. TME is involved in tumor progression through various mechanisms: (1) CAF is involved in tumor progression through cell proliferation and extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling; and (2) immune cells are involved in tumor progression through cell proliferation, angiogenesis, epithelial mesenchymal transformation (EMT), and immune suppression. These events are activated by various cytokines, chemokines, and metabolites secreted from cells that comprise TME. This review is focused on how CAF and immune cells, two important cell components of thyroid cancer TME, are involved in tumor progression, and will explore their potential as therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ja Seung Koo
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-2-2228-1772; Fax: +82-2-362-0860
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Pani F, Caria P, Yasuda Y, Makoto M, Mariotti S, Leenhardt L, Roshanmehr S, Caturegli P, Buffet C. The Immune Landscape of Papillary Thyroid Cancer in the Context of Autoimmune Thyroiditis. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14174287. [PMID: 36077831 PMCID: PMC9454449 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14174287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 08/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The association between papillary thyroid cancer and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis went through a long-standing human debate recently elucidated by the establishment of a novel mouse model. Papillary thyroid carcinoma is an excellent model for studying the tumor immune microenvironment because it is naturally accompanied by immune cells, making it a good candidate for the treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors. Abstract Papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) often co-occurs with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, an association that has long been reported in clinical studies, remaining controversial. Experimental evidence has recently shown that pre-existing thyroiditis has a beneficial effect on PTC growth and progression by a distinctive expansion of effector memory CD8 T cells. Although the link between inflammation and PTC might involve different components of the immune system, a deep characterization of them which includes T cells, B cells and tertiary lymphoid structures, Mye-loid cells, Neutrophils, NK cells and dendritic cells will be desirable. The present review article considers the role of the adaptive and innate immune response surrounding PTC in the context of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. This review will focus on the current knowledge by in vivo and in vitro studies specifically performed on animals’ models; thyroid cancer cells and human samples including (i) the dual role of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes; (ii) the emerging role of B cells and tertiary lymphoid structures; (iii) the role of myeloid cells, dendritic cells, and natural killer cells; (iv) the current knowledge of the molecular biomarkers implicated in the complex link between thyroiditis and PTC and the potential implication of cancer immunotherapy in PTC patients in the context of thyroiditis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabiana Pani
- Service des Pathologies Thyroïdiennes et Tumeurs Endocrines, AP-HP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Sorbonne Université, GRC n°16, GRC Tumeurs Thyroïdiennes, 75013 Paris, France
- Correspondence: or
| | - Paola Caria
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Biochemistry, Biology and Genetics Unit, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato, SP 8, Km 0.700, Monserrato, 09042 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Yoshinori Yasuda
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
| | - Miyara Makoto
- Inserm, Centre d’Immunologie et des Maladies Infectieuses-Paris (CIMI-PARIS), AP-HP Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Sorbonne Université, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Stefano Mariotti
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, Endocrinology Unit, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, 09042 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Laurence Leenhardt
- Service des Pathologies Thyroïdiennes et Tumeurs Endocrines, AP-HP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Sorbonne Université, GRC n°16, GRC Tumeurs Thyroïdiennes, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Solmaz Roshanmehr
- Division of Immunology, Department of Pathology, The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Patrizio Caturegli
- Division of Immunology, Department of Pathology, The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Camille Buffet
- Service des Pathologies Thyroïdiennes et Tumeurs Endocrines, AP-HP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Sorbonne Université, GRC n°16, GRC Tumeurs Thyroïdiennes, 75013 Paris, France
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Terhorst-Molawi D, Lohse K, Ginter K, Puhl V, Metz M, Hu M, Maurer M, Altrichter S. Mast cells and tryptase are linked to itch and disease severity in mycosis fungoides: Results of a pilot study. Front Immunol 2022; 13:930979. [PMID: 36032167 PMCID: PMC9400509 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.930979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
IntroductionIn mycosis fungoides (MF), the most common cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, itch is a frequent clinical symptom. Whether mast cells (MCs), eosinophils (Eos) or their mediators play a role in MF-associated itch or disease severity is controversially discussed. Here, we explored the role of MC and Eo numbers in the skin as well as blood levels of their mediators in disease severity and itch.MethodsIn 10 patients with MF and 10 matched control subjects we assessed disease severity, itch, and quality of life impairment using dedicated tools such as the mSWAT, ItchyQoL and DLQI. We analyzed skin biopsies and measured serum levels of tryptase, a mast cell mediator, as well as of the eosinophil products eosinophil cationic protein (ECP) and major basic protein (MBP).ResultsThe presence of chronic itch, in four of 10 patients, was associated with significantly higher disease severity (mSwat), larger body surface area affected, and stronger QoL impairment (Itchy-Qol, DLQI). Serum levels of tryptase, but not ECP and MBP, were linked with patient-reported disease severity, body surface area affected, and the presence of itch. Three of the four patients with chronic itch, but none of the six patients without, had tryptase levels above >6µg/l. Numbers of MCs in the papillary dermis were higher in MF skin lesions then in non-lesional skin of MF patients and skin of healthy controls.DiscussionThe MC-mediator tryptase, in MF, is linked to disease activity and impact, most prominently to itch. Our findings call for larger studies that explore the role of MCs, tryptase and other MC mediators as drivers of itch and their role in MF pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorothea Terhorst-Molawi
- Institute of Allergology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Fraunhofer Institute for Translational Medicine and Pharmacology (ITMP), Allergology and Immunology, Berlin, Germany
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Katharina Lohse
- Institute of Allergology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Fraunhofer Institute for Translational Medicine and Pharmacology (ITMP), Allergology and Immunology, Berlin, Germany
| | - Katharina Ginter
- Institute of Allergology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Fraunhofer Institute for Translational Medicine and Pharmacology (ITMP), Allergology and Immunology, Berlin, Germany
| | - Viktoria Puhl
- Institute of Allergology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Fraunhofer Institute for Translational Medicine and Pharmacology (ITMP), Allergology and Immunology, Berlin, Germany
| | - Martin Metz
- Institute of Allergology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Fraunhofer Institute for Translational Medicine and Pharmacology (ITMP), Allergology and Immunology, Berlin, Germany
| | - Man Hu
- Institute of Allergology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Fraunhofer Institute for Translational Medicine and Pharmacology (ITMP), Allergology and Immunology, Berlin, Germany
| | - Marcus Maurer
- Institute of Allergology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Fraunhofer Institute for Translational Medicine and Pharmacology (ITMP), Allergology and Immunology, Berlin, Germany
- *Correspondence: Marcus Maurer,
| | - Sabine Altrichter
- Institute of Allergology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Fraunhofer Institute for Translational Medicine and Pharmacology (ITMP), Allergology and Immunology, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Dermatology and Venerology, Kepler University Hospital, Linz, Austria
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Cao ZX, Weng X, Huang JS, Long X. Receptor–ligand pair typing and prognostic risk model for papillary thyroid carcinoma based on single-cell sequencing. Front Immunol 2022; 13:902550. [PMID: 35935973 PMCID: PMC9354623 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.902550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
The papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) microenvironment consists of various cancer and surrounding cells, and the communication between them is mainly performed through ligand–receptor (LR) interactions. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) has been performed to investigate the role of intercellular communication networks in tumor progression. In addition, scRNA-seq can accurately identify the characteristics of immune cell subsets, which is of great significance for predicting the efficacy of immunotherapy. In this study, the cell–cell communication network was analyzed through LR pairs, and a new PTC molecular phenotype was developed based on LR pairs. Furthermore, a risk model was established to predict patient response to PD-1 blockade immunotherapy. The scRNA-seq dataset was obtained from GSE184362, and the bulk tumor RNA-seq dataset was obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas. CellPhoneDB was used for cellular communication analysis. LR pair correlations were calculated and used to identify molecular subtypes, and the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (Lasso) Cox regression was used to develop a risk model based on LR pairs. The IMvigor210 and GSE78220 cohorts were used as external validations for the LR.score to predict responses to PD-L1 blockade therapy. A total of 149 LR pairs with significant expression and prognostic correlation were included, and three PTC molecular subtypes were obtained from those with significant prognostic differences. Then, five LR pairs were selected to construct the risk scoring model, a reliable and independent prognostic factor in the training set, test set, and whole dataset. Furthermore, two external validation sets confirmed the predictive efficacy of the LR.score for response to PD-1 blockade therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhe Xu Cao
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xin Weng
- Hunan Sixth Engineering Company Construction Hospital, Changsha, China
| | - Jiang Sheng Huang
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xia Long
- Hospital Office, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- *Correspondence: Xia Long,
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Man X, Yang X, Wei Z, Tan Y, Li W, Jin H, Wang B. High expression level of CXCL1/GROα is linked to advanced stage and worse survival in uterine cervical cancer and facilitates tumor cell malignant processes. BMC Cancer 2022; 22:712. [PMID: 35764974 PMCID: PMC9241244 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-022-09749-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background CXCL1 belongs to a member of the ELR + CXC chemokine subgroups that also known as GRO-alpha. It has been recognized that several types of human cancers constitutively express CXCL1, which may serve as a crucial mediator involved in cancer development and metastasis via an autocrine and/or paracrine fashion. However, the expression pattern and clinical significance of CXCL1 in human uterine cervix cancer (UCC), as well as its roles and mechanisms in UCC tumor biology remains entirely unclear. Methods The expression and clinical significance of CXCL1 in UCC tissues was explored using immunohistochemistry and bioinformatics analyses. The expression and effects of CXCL1 in HeLa UCC cells were assessed using ELISA, CCK-8 and transwell assays. Western blotting experiments were performed to evaluate the potential mechanism of CXCL1 on malignant behaviors of HeLa UCC cells. Results The current study demonstrated that CXCL1 was expressed in HeLa UCC cells, PHM1-41 human immortalized cervical stromal cells, as well as cervical tissues, with UCC tissues having an evidently high level of CXCL1. This high level of CXCL1 in cancer tissues was notably related to poor clinical stages and worse survival probability, rather than tumor infiltration and patient age. In addition, CXCL1 expression was extremely correlated with CCL20, CXCL8 and CXCL3 cancer-associated chemokines expression. In vitro, the growth and migration abilities of HeLa cells were significantly enhanced in the presence of exogenous CXCL1. Gain-function assay revealed that CXCL1 overexpression significantly promoted growth and migration response in HeLa cells in both autocrine and paracrine manners. Finally, we found that CXCL1 overexpression in HeLa cells influenced the expression of ERK signal-related genes, and HeLa cell malignant behaviors derived from CXCL1 overexpression were further interrupted in the presence of the ERK1/2 blocker. Conclusion Our findings demonstrate the potential roles of CXCL1 as a promoter and a novel understanding of the functional relationship between CXCL1 and the ERK signaling pathway in UCC. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12885-022-09749-0.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaxia Man
- Department of Oncologic Gynecology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaolin Yang
- Department of Geriatrics, The First hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhentong Wei
- Department of Oncologic Gynecology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuying Tan
- Department of Echocardiography, The First hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, People's Republic of China
| | - Wanying Li
- Department of Oncologic Gynecology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongjuan Jin
- Department of Plastic Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130021, People's Republic of China.
| | - Baogang Wang
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, 130021, People's Republic of China.
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Yao JM, Zhao JY, Lv FF, Yang XB, Wang HJ. A Potential Nine-lncRNAs Signature Identification and Nomogram Diagnostic Model Establishment for Papillary Thyroid Cancer. Pathol Oncol Res 2022; 28:1610012. [PMID: 35280112 PMCID: PMC8906208 DOI: 10.3389/pore.2022.1610012] [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: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of our current study was to establish a long non-coding RNA(lncRNA) signature and assess its prognostic and diagnostic power in papillary thyroid cancer (PTC). LncRNA expression profiles were obtained from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). The key module and hub lncRNAs related to PTC were determined by weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) and LASSO Cox regression analyses, respectively. Functional enrichment analyses, including Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) and gene set enrichment analysis were implemented to analyze the possible biological processes and signaling pathways of hub lncRNAs. Associations between key lncRNA expressions and tumor-infiltrating immune cells were identified using the TIMER website, and proportions of immune cells in high/low risk score groups were compared. Kaplan-Meier Plotter was used to evaluate the prognostic significance of hub genes in PTC. A diagnostic model was conducted with logistic regression analysis, and its diagnostic performance was assessed by calibration/receiver operating characteristic curves and principal component analysis. A nine-lncRNAs signature (SLC12A5-AS1, LINC02028, KIZ-AS1, LINC02019, LINC01877, LINC01444, LINC01176, LINC01290, and LINC00581) was established in PTC, which has significant diagnostic and prognostic power. Functional enrichment analyses elucidated the regulatory mechanism of the nine-lncRNAs signature in the development of PTC. This signature and expressions of nine hub lncRNAs were correlated with the distributions of tumor infiltrating immune cells. A diagnostic nomogram was also established for PTC. By comparing with the published models with less than or equal to nine lncRNAs, our signature showed a preferable performace for prognosis prediction. In conclusion, our present research established an innovative nine-lncRNAs signature and a six-lncRNAs nomogram that might act as a potential indicator for PTC prognosis and diagnosis, which could be conducive to the PTC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Ming Yao
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan, China.,Shandong Key Laboratory of Rheumatic Disease and Translational Medicine, Jinan, China.,Shandong Institute of Nephrology, Jinan, China
| | - Jun-Yu Zhao
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan, China.,Shandong Key Laboratory of Rheumatic Disease and Translational Medicine, Jinan, China.,Shandong Institute of Nephrology, Jinan, China
| | - Fang-Fang Lv
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabology, The 960th hospital of the PLA Joint Logistics Support Force, Jinan, China
| | - Xue-Bo Yang
- Beijing Splinger Institute of Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Huan-Jun Wang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan, China.,Shandong Key Laboratory of Rheumatic Disease and Translational Medicine, Jinan, China.,Shandong Institute of Nephrology, Jinan, China
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Sobiepanek A, Kuryk Ł, Garofalo M, Kumar S, Baran J, Musolf P, Siebenhaar F, Fluhr JW, Kobiela T, Plasenzotti R, Kuchler K, Staniszewska M. The Multifaceted Roles of Mast Cells in Immune Homeostasis, Infections and Cancers. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:2249. [PMID: 35216365 PMCID: PMC8875910 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23042249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2022] [Revised: 02/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Mast cells (MCs) play important roles in normal immune responses and pathological states. The location of MCs on the boundaries between tissues and the external environment, including gut mucosal surfaces, lungs, skin, and around blood vessels, suggests a multitude of immunological functions. Thus, MCs are pivotal for host defense against different antigens, including allergens and microbial pathogens. MCs can produce and respond to physiological mediators and chemokines to modulate inflammation. As long-lived, tissue-resident cells, MCs indeed mediate acute inflammatory responses such as those evident in allergic reactions. Furthermore, MCs participate in innate and adaptive immune responses to bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. The control of MC activation or stabilization is a powerful tool in regulating tissue homeostasis and pathogen clearance. Moreover, MCs contribute to maintaining the homeostatic equilibrium between host and resident microbiota, and they engage in crosstalk between the resident and recruited hematopoietic cells. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the functions of MCs in health and disease. Further, we discuss how mouse models of MC deficiency have become useful tools for establishing MCs as a potential cellular target for treating inflammatory disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Sobiepanek
- Faculty of Chemistry, Warsaw University of Technology, Noakowskiego 3, 00-664 Warsaw, Poland; (A.S.); (J.B.); (P.M.); (T.K.)
| | - Łukasz Kuryk
- National Institute of Public Health NIH—National Institute of Research, 00-791 Warsaw, Poland;
- Clinical Science, Targovax Oy, Lars Sonckin kaari 14, 02600 Espoo, Finland;
| | - Mariangela Garofalo
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Via F. Marzolo 5, 35131 Padova, Italy;
| | - Sandeep Kumar
- Clinical Science, Targovax Oy, Lars Sonckin kaari 14, 02600 Espoo, Finland;
| | - Joanna Baran
- Faculty of Chemistry, Warsaw University of Technology, Noakowskiego 3, 00-664 Warsaw, Poland; (A.S.); (J.B.); (P.M.); (T.K.)
| | - Paulina Musolf
- Faculty of Chemistry, Warsaw University of Technology, Noakowskiego 3, 00-664 Warsaw, Poland; (A.S.); (J.B.); (P.M.); (T.K.)
| | - Frank Siebenhaar
- Institute of Allergology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (F.S.); (J.W.F.)
- Fraunhofer Institute for Translational Medicine and Pharmacology ITMP, Allergology and Immunology, 12203 Berlin, Germany
| | - Joachim Wilhelm Fluhr
- Institute of Allergology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, 10117 Berlin, Germany; (F.S.); (J.W.F.)
- Fraunhofer Institute for Translational Medicine and Pharmacology ITMP, Allergology and Immunology, 12203 Berlin, Germany
| | - Tomasz Kobiela
- Faculty of Chemistry, Warsaw University of Technology, Noakowskiego 3, 00-664 Warsaw, Poland; (A.S.); (J.B.); (P.M.); (T.K.)
| | - Roberto Plasenzotti
- Department of Biomedical Research, Medical University of Vienna, Währingergürtel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria;
| | - Karl Kuchler
- Max Perutz Labs Vienna, Center for Medical Biochemistry, Medical University of Vienna, Campus Vienna Biocenter, Dr. Bohr-Gasse 9/2, 1030 Vienna, Austria;
| | - Monika Staniszewska
- Centre for Advanced Materials and Technologies, Warsaw University of Technology, Poleczki 19, 02-822 Warsaw, Poland
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Tan H, Wang L, Liu Z. Role of Suprabasin in the Dedifferentiation of Follicular Epithelial Cell-Derived Thyroid Cancer and Identification of Related Immune Markers. Front Genet 2022; 13:810681. [PMID: 35222534 PMCID: PMC8865917 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.810681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Aberrant regulation of suprabasin (SBSN) is associated with the development of cancer and immune disorders. SBSN influences tumor cell migration, proliferation, angiogenesis, and immune resistance. In this study, we investigated the potential correlation between SBSN expression and immune infiltration in thyroid cancer. Methods: The expression of SBSN in 80 papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) specimens was determined using quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction, western blotting, and immunohistochemical staining. The expression of SBSN in 9 cases of poorly differentiated thyroid carcinoma (PDTC) and 18 cases of anaplastic thyroid carcinoma (ATC) was evaluated by immunohistochemical staining. Comprehensive bioinformatics analysis of SBSN expression was performed using The Cancer Genome Atlas and Gene Expression Omnibus datasets, and the relationship of SBSN expression with M2 macrophages and T regulatory cells (Tregs) in ATC and PTC was verified by immunohistochemical staining. Results: Compared with those in adjacent normal tissues, the expression levels of SBSN mRNA and protein were significantly higher in PTC tissues. SBSN expression level was correlated with that of cervical lymph node metastasis in PTC patients. Immunohistochemical staining results showed statistically significant differences among high-positive expression rates of SBSN in PTC, PDTC, and ATC. Functional enrichment analysis showed that SBSN expression was associated with pathways related to cancer, cell signaling, and immune response. Furthermore, analysis of the tumor microenvironment (using CIBERSORT-ABS and xCell algorithms) showed that SBSN expression affected immune cell infiltration and the cancer immunity cycle, and immunohistochemistry confirmed a significant increase in M2 macrophage and Treg infiltration in tumor tissues with high-positive SBSN expression. Conclusion: These findings reveal that SBSN may be involved in thyroid carcinogenesis, tumor dedifferentiation progression, and immunosuppression as an important regulator of tumor immune cell infiltration.
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Mast Cell–Tumor Interactions: Molecular Mechanisms of Recruitment, Intratumoral Communication and Potential Therapeutic Targets for Tumor Growth. Cells 2022; 11:cells11030349. [PMID: 35159157 PMCID: PMC8834237 DOI: 10.3390/cells11030349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2021] [Revised: 01/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Mast cells (MCs) are tissue-resident immune cells that are important players in diseases associated with chronic inflammation such as cancer. Since MCs can infiltrate solid tumors and promote or limit tumor growth, a possible polarization of MCs to pro-tumoral or anti-tumoral phenotypes has been proposed and remains as a challenging research field. Here, we review the recent evidence regarding the complex relationship between MCs and tumor cells. In particular, we consider: (1) the multifaceted role of MCs on tumor growth suggested by histological analysis of tumor biopsies and studies performed in MC-deficient animal models; (2) the signaling pathways triggered by tumor-derived chemotactic mediators and bioactive lipids that promote MC migration and modulate their function inside tumors; (3) the possible phenotypic changes on MCs triggered by prevalent conditions in the tumor microenvironment (TME) such as hypoxia; (4) the signaling pathways that specifically lead to the production of angiogenic factors, mainly VEGF; and (5) the possible role of MCs on tumor fibrosis and metastasis. Finally, we discuss the novel literature on the molecular mechanisms potentially related to phenotypic changes that MCs undergo into the TME and some therapeutic strategies targeting MC activation to limit tumor growth.
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Multiplatform computational analysis of mast cells in adrenocortical carcinoma tumor microenvironment. Surgery 2022; 171:111-118. [PMID: 34261605 PMCID: PMC9941782 DOI: 10.1016/j.surg.2021.04.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immunotherapeutic response failure of adrenocortical carcinomas highlights a need for novel strategies targeting immune cell populations in the tumor microenvironment to overcome tumor resistance and enhance therapeutic response. A recent study explored a new link between tumor mast cell infiltration and improved outcomes in patients with adrenocortical carcinomas. We further dissect the role of mast cells in the tumor microenvironment of adrenocortical carcinomas by examining the tumor mast cell expression signatures and mast cell activity within the tumor microenvironment to provide additional insight into potential novel immunotherapeutic targets. METHODS Using the CIBERSORTx computational immunogenomic deconvolution algorithm to analyze adrenocortical carcinoma tumor gene messenger RNA expression data (The Cancer Genome Atlas, N = 79), we estimated the abundance of tumor immune infiltrating mast cells and assessed prognostic potential of mast cell signaling genes as pro or antitumor signatures, as well as examined the impact on overall and disease-free survival. RESULTS We stratified mast cell signaling genes with survival prognostic values (overall survival, disease-free survival, P < .05) into antitumor (ALOX5, CCL2, CCL5, CXCL10, HDC, IL16, TNF, TPSAB1, VEGFD) and protumor (CXCL1, CXCL3, CXCL8, IL4, IL13, PTGS3, TNSF4, VEGFD) groups. Antitumor mast cell signature, as the predominant phenotype, was associated with improved overall and disease-free survival. CONCLUSION The deconvolution analysis of The Cancer Genome Atlas data identified mast cell infiltration in the adrenocortical carcinoma microenvironment as predominantly associated with antitumor activity. Future studies stemming from our findings may help define the role of mast cells in the tumor microenvironment and the impact on patient survival in patients with adrenocortical carcinomas. Modulation of tumor mast cell infiltration may serve as a potential target for novel synergistic immunotherapies for the treatment and improved survival of patients with adrenocortical carcinomas.
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Ren X, Du H, Cheng W, Wang Y, Xu Y, Yan S, Gao Y. Construction of a ferroptosis-related eight gene signature for predicting the prognosis and immune infiltration of thyroid cancer. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:997873. [PMID: 36407322 PMCID: PMC9672669 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.997873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Thyroid cancer is the most common malignant tumor of the endocrine system. Most patients with thyroid cancer have a good prognosis, although a small proportion experience recurrence and metastasis and have a poor prognosis. Ferroptosis is a novel form of regulated cell death (RCD); previous studies have confirmed that ferroptosis was associated with thyroid cancer. The purpose of this study was to investigate the key ferroptosis-related genes in thyroid cancer and their relationship with prognosis and immune cell infiltration. METHODS In this study, 497 thyroid cancer RNA expression datasets were downloaded from the cancer genome atlas (TCGA) cohort and a prognostic risk model for eight ferroptosis-related genes (FRGs) was constructed by Lasso-Cox regression. The prognostic value of the risk model and the correlation of prognostic features with immune scores and tumor immune cell infiltration were systematically analyzed. RESULTS The prognostic risk model for eight FRGs (DPP4, TYRO3, TIMP1, CDKN2A, SNCA, NR4A1, IL-6 and FABP4) were constructed and validated in training and testing cohorts. Kaplan-Meier curve and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis confirmed that that the ferroptosis-related eight gene signature had good predictive value for the prognosis of thyroid cancer (THCA) patients. Multivariate regression analysis further showed that the risk score of the prognostic model could be used as an independent prognostic factor for THCA patients. Functional enrichment analysis showed that DEGs in high risk and low risk groups were involved in immune-related biological processes and that there were significant differences in immune cell infiltration between the two risk groups. CONCLUSION We identified eight key genes related to ferroptosis in THCA patients. Further studies are now needed to investigate the mechanisms involved; these genes may represent clinical diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoying Ren
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Huijun Du
- Department of Cardiology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Weilun Cheng
- Department of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Yujing Wang
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Yuanxin Xu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Shuang Yan
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- *Correspondence: Shuang Yan, ; Yunan Gao,
| | - Yunan Gao
- Department of Cardiology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
- *Correspondence: Shuang Yan, ; Yunan Gao,
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Yin X, Liu J, Wang X, Yang T, Li G, Shang Y, Teng X, Yu H, Wang S, Huang W. Identification of Key Transcription Factors and Immune Infiltration Patterns Associated With Breast Cancer Prognosis Using WGCNA and Cox Regression Analysis. Front Oncol 2021; 11:742792. [PMID: 34993131 PMCID: PMC8724129 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.742792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death among women worldwide. Therefore, the need for effective breast cancer treatment is urgent. Transcription factors (TFs) directly participate in gene transcription, and their dysregulation plays a key role in breast cancer. Our study identified 459 differentially expressed TFs between tumor and normal samples from The Cancer Genome Atlas database. Based on gene expression analysis and weighted gene co-expression network analysis, the co-expression yellow module was found to be integral for breast cancer progression. A total of 121 genes in the yellow module were used for function enrichment. To further confirm prognosis-related TFs, COX regression and LASSO analyses were performed; consequently, a prognostic risk model was constructed, and its validity was verified. Ten prognosis-related TFs were identified according to their expression profile, survival probability, and target genes. COPS5, HDAC2, and NONO were recognized as hub TFs in breast cancer. These TFs were highly expressed in human breast cancer cell lines and clinical breast cancer samples; this result was consistent with the information from multiple databases. Immune infiltration analysis revealed that the proportions of resting dendritic and mast cells were greater in the low-risk group than those in the high-risk group. Thus, in this study, we identified three hub biomarkers related to breast cancer prognosis. The results provide a framework for the co-expression of TF modules and immune infiltration in breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Yin
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis Research, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jiaxiang Liu
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Breast Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Tianshu Yang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis Research, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Gen Li
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis Research, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yaxin Shang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis Research, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xu Teng
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis Research, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Hefen Yu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis Research, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Shuang Wang
- Department of Cardio Surgery Center, Shandong Second Provincial General Hospital, Jinan, China
- *Correspondence: Shuang Wang, ; Wei Huang,
| | - Wei Huang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis Research, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Shuang Wang, ; Wei Huang,
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Zhu X, Wang X, Gong Y, Deng J. E-cadherin on epithelial-mesenchymal transition in thyroid cancer. Cancer Cell Int 2021; 21:695. [PMID: 34930256 PMCID: PMC8690896 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-021-02344-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Thyroid carcinoma is a common malignant tumor of endocrine system and head and neck. Recurrence, metastasis and high malignant expression after routine treatment are serious clinical problems, so it is of great significance to explore its mechanism and find action targets. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is associated with tumor malignancy and invasion. One key change in tumour EMT is low expression of E-cadherin. Therefore, this article reviews the expression of E-cadherin in thyroid cancers (TC), discuss the potential mechanisms involved, and outline opportunities to exploit E-cadherin on regulating the occurrence of EMT as a critical factor in cancer therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyu Zhu
- Shanghai Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 274 Zhijiang Middle Road, Jing'an District, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Xiaoping Wang
- Shanghai Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 274 Zhijiang Middle Road, Jing'an District, Shanghai, 200040, China.
| | - Yifei Gong
- Shanghai Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 274 Zhijiang Middle Road, Jing'an District, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Junlin Deng
- Shanghai Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 274 Zhijiang Middle Road, Jing'an District, Shanghai, 200040, China
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Shi J, Wu P, Sheng L, Sun W, Zhang H. Ferroptosis-related gene signature predicts the prognosis of papillary thyroid carcinoma. Cancer Cell Int 2021; 21:669. [PMID: 34906147 PMCID: PMC8670268 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-021-02389-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is the most common type of thyroid cancer (TC), accounting for more than 80% of all cases. Ferroptosis is a novel iron-dependent and Reactive oxygen species (ROS) reliant type of cell death which is distinct from the apoptosis, necroptosis and pyroptosis. Considerable studies have demonstrated that ferroptosis is involved in the biological process of various cancers. However, the role of ferroptosis in PTC remains unclear. This study aims at exploring the expression of ferroptosis-related genes (FRG) and their prognostic values in PTC. METHODS A ferroptosis-related gene signature was constructed using lasso regression analysis through the PTC datasets of the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses were performed to investigate the bioinformatics functions of significantly different genes (SDG) of ferroptosis. Additionally, the correlations of ferroptosis and immune cells were assessed through the single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) and CIBERSORT database. Finally, SDG were test in clinical PTC specimens and normal thyroid tissues. RESULTS LASSO regression model was utilized to establish a novel FRG signature with 10 genes (ANGPTL7, CDKN2A, DPP4, DRD4, ISCU, PGD, SRXN1, TF, TFRC, TXNRD1) to predicts the prognosis of PTC, and the patients were separated into high-risk and low-risk groups by the risk score. The high-risk group had poorer survival than the low-risk group (p < 0.001). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis confirmed the signature's predictive capacity. Multivariate regression analysis identified the prognostic signature-based risk score was an independent prognostic indicator for PTC. The functional roles of the DEGs in the TGCA PTC cohort were explored using GO enrichment and KEGG pathway analyses. Immune related analysis demonstrated that the most types of immune cells and immunological function in the high-risk group were significant different with those in the low-risk group. Quantitative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR) verified the SDG have differences in expression between tumor tissue and normal thyroid tissue. In addition, cell experiments were conducted to observe the changes in cell morphology and expression of signature's genes with the influence of ferroptosis induced by sorafenib. CONCLUSIONS We identified differently expressed FRG that may involve in PTC. A ferroptosis-related gene signature has significant values in predicting the patients' prognoses and targeting ferroptosis may be an alternative for PTC's therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinyuan Shi
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Pu Wu
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Lei Sheng
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, General Surgery, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Wei Sun
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Hao Zhang
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
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Jarboe T, Tuli NY, Chakraborty S, Maniyar RR, DeSouza N, Xiu-Min Li, Moscatello A, Geliebter J, Tiwari RK. Inflammatory Components of the Thyroid Cancer Microenvironment: An Avenue for Identification of Novel Biomarkers. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1350:1-31. [PMID: 34888842 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-83282-7_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The incidence of thyroid cancer in the United States is on the rise with an appreciably high disease recurrence rate of 20-30%. Anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC), although rare in occurrence, is an aggressive form of cancer with limited treatment options and bleak cure rates. This chapter uses discussions of in vitro models that are representative of papillary, anaplastic, and follicular thyroid cancer to evaluate the crosstalk between specific cells of the tumor microenvironment (TME), which serves as a highly heterogeneous realm of signaling cascades and metabolism that are associated with tumorigenesis. The cellular constituents of the TME carry out varying characteristic immunomodulatory functions that are discussed throughout this chapter. The aforementioned cell types include cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), endothelial cells (ECs), and cancer stem cells (CSCs), as well as specific immune cells, including natural killer (NK) cells, dendritic cells (DCs), mast cells, T regulatory (Treg) cells, CD8+ T cells, and tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). TAM-mediated inflammation is associated with a poor prognosis of thyroid cancer, and the molecular basis of the cellular crosstalk between macrophages and thyroid cancer cells with respect to inducing a metastatic phenotype is not yet known. The dynamic nature of the physiological transition to pathological metastatic phenotypes when establishing the TME encompasses a wide range of characteristics that are further explored within this chapter, including the roles of somatic mutations and epigenetic alterations that drive the genetic heterogeneity of cancer cells, allowing for selective advantages that aid in their proliferation. Induction of these proliferating cells is typically accomplished through inflammatory induction, whereby chronic inflammation sets up a constant physiological state of inflammatory cell recruitment. The secretions of these inflammatory cells can alter the genetic makeup of proliferating cells, which can in turn, promote tumor growth.This chapter also presents an in-depth analysis of molecular interactions within the TME, including secretory cytokines and exosomes. Since the exosomal cargo of a cell is a reflection and fingerprint of the originating parental cells, the profiling of exosomal miRNA derived from thyroid cancer cells and macrophages in the TME may serve as an important step in biomarker discovery. Identification of a distinct set of tumor suppressive miRNAs downregulated in ATC-secreted exosomes indicates their role in the regulation of tumor suppressive genes that may increase the metastatic propensity of ATC. Additionally, the high expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines in studies looking at thyroid cancer and activated macrophage conditioned media suggests the existence of an inflammatory TME in thyroid cancer. New findings are suggestive of the presence of a metastatic niche in ATC tissues that is influenced by thyroid tumor microenvironment secretome-induced epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), mediated by a reciprocal interaction between the pro-inflammatory M1 macrophages and the thyroid cancer cells. Thus, targeting the metastatic thyroid carcinoma microenvironment could offer potential therapeutic benefits and should be explored further in preclinical and translational models of human metastatic thyroid cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tara Jarboe
- Departments of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA
| | - Neha Y Tuli
- Departments of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA
| | - Sanjukta Chakraborty
- Departments of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA.,Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Rachana R Maniyar
- Departments of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA.,Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Nicole DeSouza
- Departments of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA
| | - Xiu-Min Li
- Departments of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA
| | | | - Jan Geliebter
- Departments of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA
| | - Raj K Tiwari
- Departments of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA.
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Guo K, Qian K, Shi Y, Sun T, Chen L, Mei D, Dong K, Gu S, Liu J, Lv Z, Wang Z. Clinical and Molecular Characterizations of Papillary Thyroid Cancer in Children and Young Adults: A Multicenter Retrospective Study. Thyroid 2021; 31:1693-1706. [PMID: 34514877 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2021.0003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Background: Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is a rare malignancy in children and young adults (CAYA). It often presents with aggressive disease patterns and advanced stages, which are clinically distinct from those in adult patients. In this study, we sought to characterize and better understand the clinical variants of PTC in CAYA and explore the underlying mechanisms. Methods: CAYA patients (age ≤18 years) diagnosed with PTC between June 2006 and June 2018 were retrospectively recruited from five hospitals. Demographic information, pathological data, and follow-up status were recorded. Tumor samples obtained from 20 children (mean age 15.15 years) and 10 adults (mean age 38.80 years) underwent comprehensive whole transcriptome sequencing. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs), mutational landscape, and immune infiltration were analyzed. Results: A total of 217 CAYA-PTC patients (162 females and 55 males) with an average age of 14.38 ± 3.53 years (range 2-18) were included. Lymph node metastasis (LNM) was observed in 85.71%, of which 57.60% were in the lateral cervical compartment. Disease recurred in 28 of 217 (12.90%) patients with a median follow-up of 4.76 years. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that age, bilateral disease, extrathyroidal extension, and coexisting Hashimoto's thyroiditis (co-HT) were independent risk factors for LNM, while co-HT was the only risk factor for recurrence. Using whole transcriptome sequencing of PTC tissues, we identified 301 DEGs. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses showed that differences in immune mediators played important roles, based on the distributions of mutation frequencies, types, and expression levels between CAYA and adult patients. Based on the integrated data sets, we identified significantly mutated immune genes, cluster of differentiation 24 (CD24), coagulation factor 12 (F12), coagulation factor 5 (F5), integrin subunit alpha 3 (ITGA3), and retinoic acid early transcript 1L (RAET1L), which were then verified by immunohistochemistry. Furthermore, resting mast cells, resting natural killer cells, plasma cells, and regulatory T cells were different in the CAYA-PTC group and correlated with the expression of immune checkpoints. Conclusions: There are considerable variabilities that may contribute to the different clinical presentations between CAYA and adult PTC patients, among which the decrease in protective immune cells may be a factor. Collectively, our results add to the possible biological mechanisms involved in CAYA-PTC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Guo
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine Affiliated Renji Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Kai Qian
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine Affiliated Renji Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuan Shi
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine Affiliated Renji Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Tuanqi Sun
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Licai Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Children's Hospital of Shanghai, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Dongyu Mei
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Kuiran Dong
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Song Gu
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Shanghai Children's Medical Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiangbin Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Children's Hospital of Shanghai, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhibao Lv
- Department of General Surgery, Children's Hospital of Shanghai, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhuoying Wang
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine Affiliated Renji Hospital, Shanghai, China
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Noto CN, Hoft SG, DiPaolo RJ. Mast Cells as Important Regulators in Autoimmunity and Cancer Development. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:752350. [PMID: 34712668 PMCID: PMC8546116 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.752350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Mast cells are an essential part of the immune system and are best known as important modulators of allergic and anaphylactic immune responses. Upon activation, mast cells release a multitude of inflammatory mediators with various effector functions that can be both protective and damage-inducing. Mast cells can have an anti-inflammatory or pro-inflammatory immunological effect and play important roles in regulating autoimmune diseases including rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes, and multiple sclerosis. Importantly, chronic inflammation and autoimmunity are linked to the development of specific cancers including pancreatic cancer, prostate cancer, colorectal cancer, and gastric cancer. Inflammatory mediators released from activated mast cells regulate immune responses and promote vascular permeability and the recruitment of immune cells to the site of inflammation. Mast cells are present in increased numbers in tissues affected by autoimmune diseases as well as in tumor microenvironments where they co-localize with T regulatory cells and T effector cells. Mast cells can regulate immune responses by expressing immune checkpoint molecules on their surface, releasing anti-inflammatory cytokines, and promoting vascularization of solid tumor sites. As a result of these immune modulating activities, mast cells have disease-modifying roles in specific autoimmune diseases and cancers. Therefore, determining how to regulate the activities of mast cells in different inflammatory and tumor microenvironments may be critical to discovering potential therapeutic targets to treat autoimmune diseases and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine N Noto
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Stella G Hoft
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, United States
| | - Richard J DiPaolo
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, United States
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Tumor-Associated Mast Cells in Urothelial Bladder Cancer: Optimizing Immuno-Oncology. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9111500. [PMID: 34829729 PMCID: PMC8614912 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9111500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Revised: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Urothelial bladder cancer (UBC) is one of the most prevalent and aggressive malignancies. Recent evidence indicates that the tumor microenvironment (TME), including a variety of immune cells, is a critical modulator of tumor initiation, progression, evolution, and treatment resistance. Mast cells (MCs) in UBC are possibly involved in tumor angiogenesis, tissue remodeling, and immunomodulation. Moreover, tumor-infiltration by MCs has been reported in early-stage UBC patients. This infiltration is linked with a favorable or unfavorable prognosis depending on the tumor type and location. Despite the discrepancy of MC function in tumor progression, MCs can modify the TME to regulate the immunity and infiltration of tumors by producing an array of mediators. Nonetheless, the precise role of MCs in UBC tumor progression and evolution remains unknown. Thus, this review discusses some critical roles of MCs in UBC. Patients with UBC are treated at both early and late stages by immunotherapeutic methods, including intravenous bacillus Calmette–Guérin instillation and immune checkpoint blockade. An understanding of the patient response and resistance mechanisms in UBC is required to unlock the complete potential of immunotherapy. Since MCs are pivotal to understand the underlying processes and predictors of therapeutic responses in UBC, our review also focuses on possible immunotherapeutic treatments that involve MCs.
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Liu H, Yang Y. Identification of Mast Cell-Based Molecular Subtypes and a Predictive Signature in Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:719982. [PMID: 34646862 PMCID: PMC8503328 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.719982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Kidney renal clear cell carcinoma (KIRC) is a common malignant tumor of the urinary system. Surgery is the preferred treatment option; however, the rate of distant metastasis is high. Mast cells in the tumor microenvironment promote or inhibit tumorigenesis depending on the cancer type; however, their role in KIRC is not well-established. Here, we used a bioinformatics approach to evaluate the roles of mast cells in KIRC. Methods: To quantify mast cell abundance based on gene sets, a single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) was utilized to analyze three datasets. Weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA) was used to identify the genes most closely related to mast cells. To identify new molecular subtypes, the nonnegative matrix factorization algorithm was used. GSEA and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) Cox regression were used to identify genes with high prognostic value. A multivariate Cox regression analysis was performed to establish a prognostic model based on mast cell-related genes. Promoter methylation levels of mast cell-related genes and relationships between gene expression and survival were evaluated using the UALCAN and GEPIA databases. Results: A prolonged survival in KIRC was associated with a high mast cell abundance. KIRC was divided into two molecular subtypes (cluster 1 and cluster 2) based on mast cell-related genes. Genes in Cluster 1 were enriched for various functions related to cancer development, such as the TGFβ signaling pathway, renal cell carcinoma, and mTOR signaling pathway. Based on drug sensitivity predictions, sensitivity to doxorubicin was higher for cluster 2 than for cluster 1. By a multivariate Cox analysis, we established a clinical prognostic model based on eight mast cell-related genes. Conclusion: We identified eight mast cell-related genes and constructed a clinical prognostic model. These results improve our understanding of the roles of mast cells in KIRC and may contribute to personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanxiang Liu
- Pediatric Urology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yi Yang
- Pediatric Urology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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Immune Microenvironment Features and Dynamics in Hodgkin Lymphoma. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13143634. [PMID: 34298847 PMCID: PMC8304929 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13143634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary As happens in all neoplasms, the many reciprocal interactions taking place between neoplastic cells and the other reactive cells impact the course of the disease. Hodgkin Lymphoma is an haematologic malignancy where most of the pathological tissue is indeed composed by reactive cells and few neoplastic cells. Consequently, it represents an interesting subject for the description of the neoplastic and non-neoplastic cells interaction. In this review we report and discuss the more recent findings of microenvironmental studies about this disease. Abstract Classical Hodgkin’s lymphoma (cHL) accounts for 10% of all lymphoma diagnosis. The peculiar feature of the disease is the presence of large multinucleated Reed–Sternberg and mononuclear Hodgkin cells interspersed with a reactive microenvironment (ME). Due to the production of a large number of cytokines, Hodgkin cells (HCs) and Hodgkin Reed–Sternberg cells (HRSCs) attract and favour the expansion of different immune cell populations, modifying their functional status in order to receive prosurvival stimuli and to turn off the antitumour immune response. To this purpose HRSCs shape a biological niche by organizing the spatial distribution of cells in the ME. This review will highlight the contribution of the ME in the pathogenesis and prognosis of cHL and its role as a possible therapeutic target.
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Li CW, Shi X, Ma B, Wang YL, Lu ZW, Liao T, Wang Y, Ji QH, Wei WJ. A 4 Gene-based Immune Signature Predicts Dedifferentiation and Immune Exhaustion in Thyroid Cancer. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2021; 106:e3208-e3220. [PMID: 33656532 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgab132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT The role of immune-related genes (IRGs) in thyroid cancer dedifferentiation and accompanying immune exhaustion remains largely unexplored. OBJECTIVE To construct a significant IRG-based signature indicative of dedifferentiation and immune exhaustion in thyroid cancer. DESIGN AND SETTINGS One exploratory cohort and 2 validation cohorts were used to identify stably dysregulated IRGs in dedifferentiated thyroid cancer (DDTC) and to obtain independent risk factors for dedifferentiation. The IRGs formed a gene signature, whose predictive value was tested by the receiver operating characteristic curve. Correlations between the signature and differentiation-related genes, immune checkpoints, and prognosis were analyzed. Gene set enrichment analyses were performed to identify related signaling pathways. RESULTS Four IRGs (PRKCQ, PLAUR, PSMD2, and BMP7) were found to be repeatedly dysregulated in DDTC, and they formed an IRG-based signature with a satisfactory predictive value for thyroid cancer dedifferentiation. Correlation analyses revealed that immune checkpoints were closely related to the 4 IRGs and the IRG-based signature, which was significantly associated with the histological subtype (P = 0.026), lymph node metastasis (P = 0.001), and BRAFV600E mutation (P < 0.001). The downregulated expression of PRKCQ shortened the disease-free survival for patients with thyroid cancer. Furthermore, we identified several signaling pathways inherently associated with the IRG-based signature. CONCLUSIONS This study suggests that IRGs participate in the dedifferentiation and immune exhaustion process of thyroid cancer and are potential biomarkers for DDTC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cui-Wei Li
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Xiao Shi
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Ben Ma
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Yu-Long Wang
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Zhong-Wu Lu
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Tian Liao
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Qing-Hai Ji
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Wen-Jun Wei
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
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Inflammation and tumor progression: signaling pathways and targeted intervention. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2021; 6:263. [PMID: 34248142 PMCID: PMC8273155 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-021-00658-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 826] [Impact Index Per Article: 275.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer development and its response to therapy are regulated by inflammation, which either promotes or suppresses tumor progression, potentially displaying opposing effects on therapeutic outcomes. Chronic inflammation facilitates tumor progression and treatment resistance, whereas induction of acute inflammatory reactions often stimulates the maturation of dendritic cells (DCs) and antigen presentation, leading to anti-tumor immune responses. In addition, multiple signaling pathways, such as nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kB), Janus kinase/signal transducers and activators of transcription (JAK-STAT), toll-like receptor (TLR) pathways, cGAS/STING, and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK); inflammatory factors, including cytokines (e.g., interleukin (IL), interferon (IFN), and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α), chemokines (e.g., C-C motif chemokine ligands (CCLs) and C-X-C motif chemokine ligands (CXCLs)), growth factors (e.g., vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), transforming growth factor (TGF)-β), and inflammasome; as well as inflammatory metabolites including prostaglandins, leukotrienes, thromboxane, and specialized proresolving mediators (SPM), have been identified as pivotal regulators of the initiation and resolution of inflammation. Nowadays, local irradiation, recombinant cytokines, neutralizing antibodies, small-molecule inhibitors, DC vaccines, oncolytic viruses, TLR agonists, and SPM have been developed to specifically modulate inflammation in cancer therapy, with some of these factors already undergoing clinical trials. Herein, we discuss the initiation and resolution of inflammation, the crosstalk between tumor development and inflammatory processes. We also highlight potential targets for harnessing inflammation in the treatment of cancer.
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