1
|
Vázquez-Bellón N, Martínez-Bosch N, García de Frutos P, Navarro P. Hallmarks of pancreatic cancer: spotlight on TAM receptors. EBioMedicine 2024; 107:105278. [PMID: 39137571 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2024.105278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2024] [Revised: 07/14/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) represents the most prevalent type of pancreatic cancer and ranks among the most aggressive tumours, with a 5-year survival rate of less than 11%. Projections indicate that by 2030, it will become the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. PDAC presents distinctive hallmarks contributing to its dismal prognosis: (i) late diagnosis, (ii) heterogenous and complex mutational landscape, (iii) high metastatic potential, (iv) dense fibrotic stroma, (v) immunosuppressive microenvironment, and (vi) high resistance to therapy. Mounting evidence has shown a role for TAM (Tyro3, AXL, MerTK) family of tyrosine kinase receptors in PDAC initiation and progression. This review aims to describe the impact of TAM receptors on the defining hallmarks of PDAC and discuss potential future directions using these proteins as novel biomarkers for early diagnosis and targets for precision therapy in PDAC, an urgent unmet clinical need.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Núria Vázquez-Bellón
- Department of Cell Death and Proliferation, Institute of Biomedical Research of Barcelona (IIBB)-CSIC and Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain; PhD Program in Biomedicine, Facultat de Medicina (Campus Clínic), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Neus Martínez-Bosch
- Cancer Research Program, Hospital del Mar Research Institute (HMRI), Unidad Asociada IIBB-CSIC, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pablo García de Frutos
- Department of Cell Death and Proliferation, IIBB-CSIC, Unidad Asociada IMIM/IIBB-CSIC, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV), and IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Pilar Navarro
- Department of Cell Death and Proliferation, Institute of Biomedical Research of Barcelona (IIBB)-CSIC and Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain; Cancer Research Program, Hospital del Mar Research Institute (HMRI), Unidad Asociada IIBB-CSIC, Barcelona, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Muraro E, Montico B, Lum B, Colizzi F, Giurato G, Salvati A, Guerrieri R, Rizzo A, Comaro E, Canzonieri V, Anichini A, Del Vecchio M, Mortarini R, Milione M, Weisz A, Pizzichetta MA, Simpson F, Dolcetti R, Fratta E, Sigalotti L. Antibody dependent cellular cytotoxicity-inducing anti-EGFR antibodies as effective therapeutic option for cutaneous melanoma resistant to BRAF inhibitors. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1336566. [PMID: 38510242 PMCID: PMC10950948 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1336566] [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: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction About 50% of cutaneous melanoma (CM) patients present activating BRAF mutations that can be effectively targeted by BRAF inhibitors (BRAFi). However, 20% of CM patients exhibit intrinsic drug resistance to BRAFi, while most of the others develop adaptive resistance over time. The mechanisms involved in BRAFi resistance are disparate and globally seem to rewire the cellular signaling profile by up-regulating different receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs), such as the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). RTKs inhibitors have not clearly demonstrated anti-tumor activity in BRAFi resistant models. To overcome this issue, we wondered whether the shared up-regulated RTK phenotype associated with BRAFi resistance could be exploited by using immune weapons as the antibody-dependent cell cytotoxicity (ADCC)-mediated effect of anti-RTKs antibodies, and kill tumor cells independently from the mechanistic roots. Methods and results By using an in vitro model of BRAFi resistance, we detected increased membrane expression of EGFR, both at mRNA and protein level in 4 out of 9 BRAFi-resistant (VR) CM cultures as compared to their parental sensitive cells. Increased EGFR phosphorylation and AKT activation were observed in the VR CM cultures. EGFR signaling appeared dispensable for maintaining resistance, since small molecule-, antibody- and CRISPR-targeting of EGFR did not restore sensitivity of VR cells to BRAFi. Importantly, immune-targeting of EGFR by the anti-EGFR antibody cetuximab efficiently and specifically killed EGFR-expressing VR CM cells, both in vitro and in humanized mouse models in vivo, triggering ADCC by healthy donors' and patients' peripheral blood cells. Conclusion Our data demonstrate the efficacy of immune targeting of RTKs expressed by CM relapsing on BRAFi, providing the proof-of-concept supporting the assessment of anti-RTK antibodies in combination therapies in this setting. This strategy might be expected to concomitantly trigger the crosstalk of adaptive immune response leading to a complementing T cell immune rejection of tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elena Muraro
- Immunopathology and Cancer Biomarkers, Department of Translational Research, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, Aviano, Italy
| | - Barbara Montico
- Immunopathology and Cancer Biomarkers, Department of Translational Research, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, Aviano, Italy
| | - Benedict Lum
- Frazer Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Francesca Colizzi
- Immunopathology and Cancer Biomarkers, Department of Translational Research, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, Aviano, Italy
| | - Giorgio Giurato
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Genomics, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
- Genome Research Center for Health - CRGS, Baronissi, Italy
| | - Annamaria Salvati
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Genomics, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
- Genome Research Center for Health - CRGS, Baronissi, Italy
- Molecular Pathology and Medical Genomics Program, AOU 'S. Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi d'Aragona' University of Salerno and Rete Oncologica Campana, Salerno, Italy
| | - Roberto Guerrieri
- Immunopathology and Cancer Biomarkers, Department of Translational Research, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, Aviano, Italy
| | - Aurora Rizzo
- Immunopathology and Cancer Biomarkers, Department of Translational Research, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, Aviano, Italy
| | - Elisa Comaro
- Immunopathology and Cancer Biomarkers, Department of Translational Research, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, Aviano, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Canzonieri
- Division of Pathology, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, Aviano, Italy
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Andrea Anichini
- Human Tumors Immunobiology Unit, Department of Research, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Michele Del Vecchio
- Melanoma Unit, Department of Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberta Mortarini
- Human Tumors Immunobiology Unit, Department of Research, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Milione
- Pathology Unit 1, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro Weisz
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine and Genomics, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
- Genome Research Center for Health - CRGS, Baronissi, Italy
- Molecular Pathology and Medical Genomics Program, AOU 'S. Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi d'Aragona' University of Salerno and Rete Oncologica Campana, Salerno, Italy
| | - Maria Antonietta Pizzichetta
- Division of Medical Oncology, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, Aviano, Italy
- Department of Dermatology, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Fiona Simpson
- Frazer Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Riccardo Dolcetti
- Translational and Clinical Immunotherapy, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Elisabetta Fratta
- Immunopathology and Cancer Biomarkers, Department of Translational Research, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, Aviano, Italy
| | - Luca Sigalotti
- Oncogenetics and Functional Oncogenomics Unit, Centro di Riferimento Oncologico di Aviano (CRO) IRCCS, Aviano, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Zhuo L, Guo M, Zhang S, Wu J, Wang M, Shen Y, Peng X, Wang Z, Jiang W, Huang W. Structure-activity relationship study of 1,6-naphthyridinone derivatives as selective type II AXL inhibitors with potent antitumor efficacy. Eur J Med Chem 2024; 265:116090. [PMID: 38169272 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.116090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
The role of AXL in various oncogenic processes has made it an attractive target for cancer therapy. Currently, kinase selectivity profiles, especially circumventing MET inhibition, remain a scientific issue of great interest in the discovery of selective type II AXL inhibitors. Starting from a dual MET/AXL-targeted lead structure from our previous work, we optimized a 1,6-naphthyridinone series using molecular modeling-assisted compound design to improve AXL potency and selectivity over MET, resulting in the potent and selective type II AXL-targeted compound 25c. This showed excellent AXL inhibitory activity (IC50 = 1.1 nM) and 343-fold selectivity over the highly homologous kinase MET in biochemical assays. Moreover, compound 25c significantly inhibited AXL-driven cell proliferation, dose-dependently suppressed 4T1 cell migration and invasion, and induced apoptosis. Compound 25c also showed noticeable antitumor efficacy in a BaF3/TEL-AXL xenograft model at well-tolerated doses. Overall, this study presented a potent and selective type II AXL-targeted lead compound for further drug discovery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linsheng Zhuo
- Postdoctoral Station for Basic Medicine, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China; School of Pharmaceutical Science, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China.
| | - Mengqin Guo
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China
| | - Siyi Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China
| | - Junbo Wu
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Hengyang Central Hospital, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China
| | - Mingshu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Pesticide & Chemical Biology of Ministry of Education, International Joint Research Center for Intelligent Biosensor Technology and Health, College of Chemistry, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, 430079, China
| | - Yang Shen
- Postdoctoral Station for Basic Medicine, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China
| | - Xue Peng
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China
| | - Zhen Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China
| | - Weifan Jiang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China.
| | - Wei Huang
- Key Laboratory of Pesticide & Chemical Biology of Ministry of Education, International Joint Research Center for Intelligent Biosensor Technology and Health, College of Chemistry, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, 430079, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Gelebart P, Eriksen Gjerstad M, Benjaminsen S, Han J, Karlsen I, Safont MM, Leitch C, Fandalyuk Z, Popa M, Helgeland L, Papp B, Baran-Marszak F, McCormack E. Inhibition of a new AXL isoform, AXL3, induces apoptosis of mantle cell lymphoma cells. Blood 2023; 142:1478-1493. [PMID: 37339584 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2022015581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is an aggressive B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma having a poor overall survival that is in need for the development of new therapeutics. In this study, we report the identification and expression of a new isoform splice variant of the tyrosine kinase receptor AXL in MCL cells. This new AXL isoform, called AXL3, lacks the ligand-binding domain of the commonly described AXL splice variants and is constitutively activated in MCL cells. Interestingly, functional characterization of AXL3, using CRISPR inhibition, revealed that only the knock down of this isoform leads to apoptosis of MCL cells. Importantly, pharmacological inhibition of AXL activity resulted in a significant decrease in the activation of well-known proproliferative and survival pathways activated in MCL cells (ie, β-catenin, Ak strain transforming, and NF-κB). Therapeutically, preclinical studies using a xenograft mouse model of MCL indicated that bemcentinib is more effective than ibrutinib in reducing the tumor burden and to increase the overall survival. Our study highlights the importance of a previously unidentified AXL splice variant in cancer and the potential of bemcentinib as a targeted therapy for MCL.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pascal Gelebart
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Hematology, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | | | | | - Jianhua Han
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Ida Karlsen
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | | | - Calum Leitch
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | | | - Mihaela Popa
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Lars Helgeland
- Department of Pathology, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Bela Papp
- INSERM, UMR U976, Institut Saint-Louis, Paris, France
- Institut de Recherche Saint-Louis, Hôpital Saint-Louis, Paris, France
| | | | - Emmet McCormack
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Hematology, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Clinical Science, Center for Pharmacy, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Clinical Science, Center for Cancer Biomarkers, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Mangeat T, Gracia M, Pichard A, Poty S, Martineau P, Robert B, Deshayes E. Fc-engineered monoclonal antibodies to reduce off-target liver uptake. EJNMMI Res 2023; 13:81. [PMID: 37697076 PMCID: PMC10495296 DOI: 10.1186/s13550-023-01030-0] [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: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Radiolabeled-antibodies usually display non-specific liver accumulation that may impair image analysis and antibody biodistribution. Here, we investigated whether Fc silencing influenced antibody biodistribution. We compared recombinant 89Zr-labeled antibodies (human IgG1 against different targets) with wild-type Fc and with mutated Fc (LALAPG triple mutation to prevent binding to Fc gamma receptors; FcγR). After antibody injection in mice harboring xenografts of different tumor cell lines or of immortalized human myoblasts, we analyzed antibody biodistribution by PET-CT and conventional biodistribution analysis. RESULTS Accumulation in liver was strongly reduced and tumor-specific targeting was increased for the antibodies with mutated Fc compared with wild-type Fc. CONCLUSION Antibodies with reduced binding to FcγR display lower liver accumulation and better tumor-to-liver ratios. These findings need to be taken into account to improve antibody-based theragnostic approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tristan Mangeat
- Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier (IRCM), Inserm U1194, Université de Montpellier, ICM, 34298, Montpellier, France
| | - Matthieu Gracia
- Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier (IRCM), Inserm U1194, Université de Montpellier, ICM, 34298, Montpellier, France
| | - Alexandre Pichard
- Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier (IRCM), Inserm U1194, Université de Montpellier, ICM, 34298, Montpellier, France
| | - Sophie Poty
- Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier (IRCM), Inserm U1194, Université de Montpellier, ICM, 34298, Montpellier, France
| | - Pierre Martineau
- Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier (IRCM), Inserm U1194, Université de Montpellier, ICM, 34298, Montpellier, France
| | - Bruno Robert
- Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier (IRCM), Inserm U1194, Université de Montpellier, ICM, 34298, Montpellier, France.
- Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier (IRCM), 124 Avenue des Apothicaires, 34090, Montpellier, France.
| | - Emmanuel Deshayes
- Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier (IRCM), Inserm U1194, Université de Montpellier, ICM, 34298, Montpellier, France.
- Institut Régional du Cancer de Montpellier (ICM), Service de Médecine Nucléaire, 34298, Montpellier, France.
- Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier (IRCM), 124 Avenue des Apothicaires, 34090, Montpellier, France.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Fan J, Yu Y, Yan L, Yuan Y, Sun B, Yang D, Liu N, Guo J, Zhang J, Zhao X. GAS6-based CAR-T cells exhibit potent antitumor activity against pancreatic cancer. J Hematol Oncol 2023; 16:77. [PMID: 37475048 PMCID: PMC10357739 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-023-01467-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The receptor tyrosine kinases TAM family (TYRO3, AXL, and MERTK) are highly expressed in multiple forms of cancer cells and tumor-associated macrophages and promote the development of cancers including pancreatic tumor. Targeting TAM receptors could be a promising therapeutic option. METHODS We designed a novel CAR based on the extracellular domain of growth arrest-specific protein 6 (GAS6), a natural ligand for all TAM members. The ability of CAR-T to kill pancreatic cancer cells is tested in vitro and in vivo, and the safety is evaluated in mice and nonhuman primate. RESULTS GAS6-CAR-T cells efficiently kill TAM-positive pancreatic cancer cell lines, gemcitabine-resistant cancer cells, and cancer stem-like cells in vitro. GAS6-CAR-T cells also significantly suppressed the growth of PANC1 xenografts and patient-derived xenografts in mice. Furthermore, these CAR-T cells did not induce obvious side effects in nonhuman primate or mice although the CAR was demonstrated to recognize mouse TAM. CONCLUSIONS Our findings indicate that GAS6-CAR-T-cell therapy may be effective for pancreatic cancers with low toxicity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiawei Fan
- Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment and Laboratory of Animal Tumor Models, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Ye Yu
- Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment and Laboratory of Animal Tumor Models, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Lanzhen Yan
- Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment and Laboratory of Animal Tumor Models, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Yuncang Yuan
- Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment and Laboratory of Animal Tumor Models, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Bin Sun
- Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment and Laboratory of Animal Tumor Models, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Dong Yang
- Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment and Laboratory of Animal Tumor Models, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Nan Liu
- Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment and Laboratory of Animal Tumor Models, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Jing Guo
- Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment and Laboratory of Animal Tumor Models, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Core Facilities of West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
| | - Xudong Zhao
- Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment and Laboratory of Animal Tumor Models, Cancer Center and State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The AXL signaling pathway is associated with tumor growth as well as poor prognosis in cancer. Here, we highlight recent strategies for targeting AXL in the treatment of solid and hematological malignancies. RECENT FINDINGS AXL is a key player in survival, metastasis, and therapeutic resistance in many cancers. A range of AXL-targeted therapies, including tyrosine kinase inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies, antibody-drug conjugates, and soluble receptors, have entered clinical development. Notably, AXL inhibitors in combination with immune checkpoint inhibitors demonstrate early promise; however, further understanding of predictive biomarkers and treatment sequencing is necessary. Based on its role in tumor growth and drug resistance, AXL represents a promising therapeutic target in oncology. Results from ongoing clinical trials will provide valuable insights into the role of AXL inhibitors, both as single agents and in combination with other therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sheena Bhalla
- Department of Internal Medicine (Division of Hematology-Oncology), UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
- Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
| | - David E Gerber
- Department of Internal Medicine (Division of Hematology-Oncology), UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Peter O'Donnell Jr. School of Public Health, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Bae D, Chaudhary P, Been JH, Gautam J, Lee J, Shah S, Kim E, Lee H, Nam TG, Jeong BS, Kim JA. Antitumor effect of 3-(quinolin-2-ylmethylene)-4,6-dimethyl-5-hydroxy-7-azaoxindole down-regulating the Gas6-Axl axis. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 251:115274. [PMID: 36921529 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115274] [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: 01/08/2023] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023]
Abstract
In this study, a new series of 3-arylidene-4,6-dimethyl-5-hydroxy-7-azaoxindole compounds with a wide range of functional groups were designed, synthesized, and evaluated for their antitumor activity. Among the 35 compounds, compound 6-15, with a quinoline moiety, showed cytotoxic IC50 values superior to those of sunitinib against the seven cancer cell lines (MCF-7, MDA-MB-231, HT-29, DU145, U937, A549, and PANC-1). However, its inhibitory activity against receptor tyrosine kinases (VEGFR2, PDGFRβ, c-KIT, FGFR1, FLT3, CSF1R, EGFR, Axl, and Axl mutant) was 100 -3000-fold weaker than that of sunitinib. Interestingly, compound 6-15 exerted a 3.6-fold stronger cytotoxicity than sunitinib in the gemcitabine-resistant PANC-1 cell line and significantly inhibited Axl, which was in contrast with the effect of sunitinib. Nonetheless, both compounds suppressed the expression of growth arrest-specific 6 (Gas6), the ligand of Axl. The inhibitory effect of compound 6-15 on the Gas6-Axl axis was similar to that of Gas6 knockdown by siRNA in PANC-1 cells in terms of apoptosis induction, increase in Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, Axl down-regulation, and PI3K/Akt inhibition. The inhibitory effect of compound 6-15 on tumor growth in mouse tumor models with A549 and PANC-1 xenografts was much greater than that of cisplatin or gemcitabine. Taken together, the current findings demonstrate that compound 6-15 is a promising anticancer drug candidate that acts by inhibiting the Gas6-Axl axis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dawon Bae
- College of Pharmacy and Institute for Drug Research, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, 38541, Republic of Korea
| | - Prakash Chaudhary
- College of Pharmacy and Institute for Drug Research, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, 38541, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Hui Been
- College of Pharmacy and Institute for Drug Research, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, 38541, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaya Gautam
- College of Pharmacy and Institute for Drug Research, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, 38541, Republic of Korea
| | - Jisu Lee
- College of Pharmacy and Institute for Drug Research, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, 38541, Republic of Korea
| | - Sajita Shah
- College of Pharmacy and Institute for Drug Research, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, 38541, Republic of Korea
| | - Euijung Kim
- College of Pharmacy and Institute for Drug Research, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, 38541, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyunji Lee
- College of Pharmacy and Institute for Drug Research, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, 38541, Republic of Korea; College of Pharmacy, Kyungsung University, Busan, 48434, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae-Gyu Nam
- Department of Pharmacy and Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hanyang University, ERICA campus, Ansan, 15588, Republic of Korea
| | - Byeong-Seon Jeong
- College of Pharmacy and Institute for Drug Research, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, 38541, Republic of Korea.
| | - Jung-Ae Kim
- College of Pharmacy and Institute for Drug Research, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan, 38541, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Hartl L, Maarschalkerweerd PAF, Butler JM, Manz XD, Thijssen VLJL, Bijlsma MF, Duitman J, Spek CA. C/EBPδ Suppresses Motility-Associated Gene Signatures and Reduces PDAC Cell Migration. Cells 2022; 11:3334. [PMID: 36359732 PMCID: PMC9655908 DOI: 10.3390/cells11213334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is among the most aggressive human cancers and occurs globally at an increasing incidence. Metastases are the primary cause of cancer-related death and, in the majority of cases, PDAC is accompanied by metastatic disease at the time of diagnosis, making it a particularly lethal cancer. Regrettably, to date, no curative treatment has been developed for patients with metastatic disease, resulting in a 5-year survival rate of only 11%. We previously found that the protein expression of the transcription factor CCAAT/Enhancer-Binding Protein Delta (C/EBPδ) negatively correlates with lymph node involvement in PDAC patients. To better comprehend the etiology of metastatic PDAC, we explored the role of C/EBPδ at different steps of the metastatic cascade, using established in vitro models. We found that C/EBPδ has a major impact on cell motility, an important prerequisite for tumor cells to leave the primary tumor and to reach distant sites. Our data suggest that C/EBPδ induces downstream pathways that modulate actin cytoskeleton dynamics to reduce cell migration and to induce a more epithelial-like cellular phenotype. Understanding the mechanisms dictating epithelial and mesenchymal features holds great promise for improving the treatment of PDAC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leonie Hartl
- Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and Radiobiology, Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Cancer Biology and Immunology, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Pien A. F. Maarschalkerweerd
- Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and Radiobiology, Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Joe M. Butler
- Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and Radiobiology, Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Xue D. Manz
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Amsterdam UMC Location VU University Medical Center, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Victor L. J. L. Thijssen
- Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and Radiobiology, Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Amsterdam UMC Location VU University Medical Center, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maarten F. Bijlsma
- Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and Radiobiology, Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Cancer Biology and Immunology, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - JanWillem Duitman
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Experimental Immunology, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Infection & Immunity, Inflammatory Diseases, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - C. Arnold Spek
- Laboratory for Experimental Oncology and Radiobiology, Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Cancer Biology and Immunology, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Remodelling of tumour microenvironment by microwave ablation potentiates immunotherapy of AXL-specific CAR T cells against non-small cell lung cancer. Nat Commun 2022; 13:6203. [PMID: 36261437 PMCID: PMC9581911 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-33968-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The complex immunosuppressive tumour microenvironment (TME) and lack of tumour-specific targets hinder the application of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells in the treatment of solid tumours. Combining local treatment with CAR T cell immunotherapy may regulate the TME and enhance the killing potency of CAR T cells in solid tumours. Here, we show that AXL, which is highly expressed in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) but not in normal tissues, might be a target for CAR T cell therapy. AXL-CAR T cells alone cause moderate tumour regression in subcutaneous and pulmonary metastatic lung cancer cell-derived xenograft models. Combination of microwave ablation (MWA) and AXL-CAR T cells have superior antitumour efficacy. MWA enhances the activation, infiltration, persistence and tumour suppressive properties of AXL-CAR T cells in AXL-positive NSCLC patient-derived xenograft tumours via TME remodelling. The combination therapy increases the mitochondrial oxidative metabolism of tumour-infiltrating CAR T cells. Combination treatment induces significant tumour suppression without observed toxicities in humanized immunocompetent mice. The synergistic therapeutic effect of MWA and AXL-CAR T cells may be valuable for NSCLC treatment.
Collapse
|
11
|
Two-Front War on Cancer-Targeting TAM Receptors in Solid Tumour Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14102488. [PMID: 35626092 PMCID: PMC9140196 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14102488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary In recent years, many studies have shown the importance of TAM kinases in both normal and neoplastic cells. In this review, we present and discuss the role of the TAM family (AXL, MERTK, TYRO3) of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) as a dual target in cancer, due to their intrinsic roles in tumour cell survival, migration, chemoresistance, and their immunosuppressive roles in the tumour microenvironment. This review presents the potential of TAMs as emerging therapeutic targets in cancer treatment, focusing on the distinct structures of TAM receptor tyrosine kinases. We analyse and compare different strategies of TAM inhibition, for a full perspective of current and future battlefields in the war with cancer. Abstract Receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) are transmembrane receptors that bind growth factors and cytokines and contain a regulated kinase activity within their cytoplasmic domain. RTKs play an important role in signal transduction in both normal and malignant cells, and their encoding genes belong to the most frequently affected genes in cancer cells. The TAM family proteins (TYRO3, AXL, and MERTK) are involved in diverse biological processes: immune regulation, clearance of apoptotic cells, platelet aggregation, cell proliferation, survival, and migration. Recent studies show that TAMs share overlapping functions in tumorigenesis and suppression of antitumour immunity. MERTK and AXL operate in innate immune cells to suppress inflammatory responses and promote an immunosuppressive tumour microenvironment, while AXL expression correlates with epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, metastasis, and motility in tumours. Therefore, TAM RTKs represent a dual target in cancer due to their intrinsic roles in tumour cell survival, migration, chemoresistance, and their immunosuppressive roles in the tumour microenvironment (TME). In this review, we discuss the potential of TAMs as emerging therapeutic targets in cancer treatment. We critically assess and compare current approaches to target TAM RTKs in solid tumours and the development of new inhibitors for both extra- and intracellular domains of TAM receptor kinases.
Collapse
|
12
|
Genest M, Comunale F, Planchon D, Govindin P, Noly D, Vacher S, Bièche I, Robert B, Malhotra H, Schoenit A, Tashireva LA, Casas J, Gauthier-Rouvière C, Bodin S. Upregulated flotillins and sphingosine kinase 2 derail AXL vesicular traffic to promote epithelial-mesenchymal transition. J Cell Sci 2022; 135:274986. [PMID: 35394045 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.259178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Altered endocytosis and vesicular trafficking are major players during tumorigenesis. Flotillin overexpression, a feature observed in many invasive tumors and identified as a marker of poor prognosis, induces a deregulated endocytic and trafficking pathway called upregulated flotillin-induced trafficking (UFIT). Here, we found that in non-tumoral mammary epithelial cells, induction of the UFIT pathway promotes epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and accelerates the endocytosis of several transmembrane receptors, including AXL, in flotillin-positive late endosomes. AXL overexpression, frequently observed in cancer cells, is linked to EMT and metastasis formation. In flotillin-overexpressing non-tumoral mammary epithelial cells and in invasive breast carcinoma cells, we found that the UFIT pathway-mediated AXL endocytosis allows its stabilization and depends on sphingosine kinase 2, a lipid kinase recruited in flotillin-rich plasma membrane domains and endosomes. Thus, the deregulation of vesicular trafficking following flotillin upregulation, and through sphingosine kinase 2, emerges as a new mechanism of AXL overexpression and EMT-inducing signaling pathway activation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mallory Genest
- CRBM, University of Montpellier, CNRS, 1919 route de Mende, 34293 Montpellier, France
| | - Franck Comunale
- CRBM, University of Montpellier, CNRS, 1919 route de Mende, 34293 Montpellier, France
| | - Damien Planchon
- CRBM, University of Montpellier, CNRS, 1919 route de Mende, 34293 Montpellier, France
| | - Pauline Govindin
- CRBM, University of Montpellier, CNRS, 1919 route de Mende, 34293 Montpellier, France
| | - Dune Noly
- CRBM, University of Montpellier, CNRS, 1919 route de Mende, 34293 Montpellier, France
| | - Sophie Vacher
- Department of Genetics, Institut Curie, Paris 75005, France
| | - Ivan Bièche
- Department of Genetics, Institut Curie, Paris 75005, France
| | - Bruno Robert
- IRCM, Campus Val d'Aurelle, 208 avenue des Apothicaires, 34298 Montpellier, France
| | - Himanshu Malhotra
- CRBM, University of Montpellier, CNRS, 1919 route de Mende, 34293 Montpellier, France
| | - Andreas Schoenit
- CRBM, University of Montpellier, CNRS, 1919 route de Mende, 34293 Montpellier, France
| | - Liubov A Tashireva
- Cancer Research Institute, Tomsk National Research Medical Center, Russian Academy of Sciences, Tomsk 634050, Russia
| | - Josefina Casas
- Research Unit on BioActive Molecules (RUBAM), Department of Biological Chemistry, Institute for Advanced Chemistry of Catalonia (IQAC), Spanish Council for Scientific Research (CSIC), 08034 Barcelona, Spain.,Liver and Digestive Diseases Networking Biomedical Research Centre (CIBER-EHD), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Stéphane Bodin
- CRBM, University of Montpellier, CNRS, 1919 route de Mende, 34293 Montpellier, France
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Small-Molecule RAS Inhibitors as Anticancer Agents: Discovery, Development, and Mechanistic Studies. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073706. [PMID: 35409064 PMCID: PMC8999084 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations of RAS oncogenes are responsible for about 30% of all human cancer types, including pancreatic, lung, and colorectal cancers. While KRAS1 is a pseudogene, mutation of KRAS2 (commonly known as KRAS oncogene) is directly or indirectly associated with human cancers. Among the RAS family, KRAS is the most abundant oncogene related to uncontrolled cellular proliferation to generate solid tumors in many types of cancer such as pancreatic carcinoma (over 80%), colon carcinoma (40-50%), lung carcinoma (30-50%), and other types of cancer. Once described as 'undruggable', RAS proteins have become 'druggable', at least to a certain extent, due to the continuous efforts made during the past four decades. In this account, we discuss the chemistry and biology (wherever available) of the small-molecule inhibitors (synthetic, semi-synthetic, and natural) of KRAS proteins that were published in the past decades. Commercial drugs, as well as investigational molecules from preliminary stages to clinical trials, are categorized and discussed in this study. In summary, this study presents an in-depth discussion of RAS proteins, classifies the RAS superfamily, and describes the molecular mechanism of small-molecule RAS inhibitors.
Collapse
|
14
|
Sang YB, Kim JH, Kim CG, Hong MH, Kim HR, Cho BC, Lim SM. The Development of AXL Inhibitors in Lung Cancer: Recent Progress and Challenges. Front Oncol 2022; 12:811247. [PMID: 35311091 PMCID: PMC8927964 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.811247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
AXL, along with MER and TYRO3, is a receptor tyrosine kinase from the TAM family. Although AXL itself is not thought to be a potent oncogenic driver, overexpression of AXL is known to trigger tumor cell growth, survival, invasion, metastasis, angiogenesis, epithelial to mesenchymal transition, and immune suppression. Overexpression of AXL is associated with therapy resistance and poor prognosis. Therefore, it is being studied as a marker of prognosis in cancer treatment or as a target in various cancer types. Recently, many preclinical and clinical studies on agents with various mechanisms targeting AXL have been actively conducted. They include small molecule inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies, and antibody-drug conjugates. This article reviewed the fundamental role of AXL in solid tumors, and the development in research of AXL inhibitors in recent years. Emphasis was placed on the function of AXL in acquired therapy resistance in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Since clinical needs increase in NSCLC patients with acquired resistance after initial therapy, recent research efforts have focused on a combination treatment with AXL inhibitors and tyrosine kinase inhibitors or immunotherapy to overcome resistance. Lastly, we deal with challenges and limitations encountered in the development of AXL inhibitors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yun Beom Sang
- Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, Seongnam, South Korea
| | - Joo-Hang Kim
- Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, Seongnam, South Korea
| | - Chang-Gon Kim
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei Cancer Center, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Min Hee Hong
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei Cancer Center, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hye Ryun Kim
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei Cancer Center, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Byoung Chul Cho
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei Cancer Center, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sun Min Lim
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei Cancer Center, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Martínez-Bosch N, Cristóbal H, Iglesias M, Gironella M, Barranco L, Visa L, Calafato D, Jiménez-Parrado S, Earl J, Carrato A, Manero-Rupérez N, Moreno M, Morales A, Guerra C, Navarro P, García de Frutos P. Soluble AXL is a novel blood marker for early detection of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma and differential diagnosis from chronic pancreatitis. EBioMedicine 2022; 75:103797. [PMID: 34973624 PMCID: PMC8724936 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2021.103797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Early diagnosis is crucial for patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). The AXL receptor tyrosine kinase is proteolytically processed releasing a soluble form (sAXL) into the blood stream. Here we explore the use of sAXL as a biomarker for PDAC. Methods AXL was analysed by immunohistochemistry in human pancreatic tissue samples. RNA expression analysis was performed using TCGA/GTEx databases. The plasma concentrations of sAXL, its ligand GAS6, and CA19-9 were studied in two independent cohorts, the HMar cohort (n = 59) and the HClinic cohort (n = 142), including healthy controls, chronic pancreatitis (CP) or PDAC patients, and in a familial PDAC cohort (n = 68). AXL expression and sAXL release were studied in PDAC cell lines and murine models. Findings AXL is increased in PDAC and precursor lesions as compared to CP or controls. sAXL determined in plasma from two independent cohorts was significantly increased in the PDAC group as compared to healthy controls or CP patients. Patients with high levels of AXL have a lower overall survival. ROC analysis of the plasma levels of sAXL, GAS6, or CA19-9 in our cohorts revealed that sAXL outperformed CA19-9 for discriminating between CP and PDAC. Using both sAXL and CA19-9 increased the diagnostic value. These results were validated in murine models, showing increased sAXL specifically in animals developing PDAC but not those with precursor lesions or acinar tumours. Interpretation sAXL appears as a biomarker for early detection of PDAC and PDAC–CP discrimination that could accelerate treatment and improve its dismal prognosis. Funding This work was supported by grants PI20/00625 (PN), RTI2018-095672-B-I00 (AM and PGF), PI20/01696 (MG) and PI18/01034 (AC) from MICINN-FEDER and grant 2017/SGR/225 (PN) from Generalitat de Catalunya.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Neus Martínez-Bosch
- Cancer Research Program, Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), Unidad Asociada IIBB-CSIC, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Helena Cristóbal
- Department of Cell Death and Proliferation, Institute of Biomedical Research of Barcelona (IIBB)-CSIC and Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mar Iglesias
- Department of Pathology, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Hospital del Mar, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Oncología (CIBERONC), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Meritxell Gironella
- Gastrointestinal & Pancreatic Oncology Group, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD); Hospital Clínic of Barcelona and IDIBAPS; Barcelona, Spain
| | - Luis Barranco
- Cancer Research Program, Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), Unidad Asociada IIBB-CSIC, Barcelona, Spain; Department of Gastroenterology, Hospital del Mar, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laura Visa
- Department of Medical Oncology, Hospital del Mar, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Domenico Calafato
- Department of Cell Death and Proliferation, Institute of Biomedical Research of Barcelona (IIBB)-CSIC and Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Silvia Jiménez-Parrado
- Molecular Oncology Program, Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO), Madrid, Spain
| | - Julie Earl
- Molecular Epidemiology and Predictive Tumour Markers Group, Medical Oncology Research Laboratory, Ramón y Cajal Health Research Institute (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain. CIBERONC
| | - Alfredo Carrato
- Molecular Epidemiology and Predictive Tumour Markers Group, Medical Oncology Research Laboratory, Ramón y Cajal Health Research Institute (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain. CIBERONC
| | - Noemí Manero-Rupérez
- Cancer Research Program, Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), Unidad Asociada IIBB-CSIC, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mireia Moreno
- Cancer Research Program, Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), Unidad Asociada IIBB-CSIC, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Albert Morales
- Department of Cell Death and Proliferation, IIBB-CSIC, Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) Group, Liver Unit, Hospital Clínic, CIBEREHD and IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carmen Guerra
- Molecular Oncology Program, Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO), Madrid, Spain
| | - Pilar Navarro
- Cancer Research Program, Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute (IMIM), Unidad Asociada IIBB-CSIC, Barcelona, Spain; Department of Cell Death and Proliferation, Institute of Biomedical Research of Barcelona (IIBB)-CSIC and Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Pablo García de Frutos
- Department of Cell Death and Proliferation, IIBB-CSIC, Unidad Asociada IMIM/IIBB-CSIC; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV), and IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Ukidve A, Cu K, Kumbhojkar N, Lahann J, Mitragotri S. Overcoming biological barriers to improve solid tumor immunotherapy. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2021; 11:2276-2301. [PMID: 33611770 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-021-00923-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Cancer immunotherapy has been at the forefront of therapeutic interventions for many different tumor types over the last decade. While the discovery of immunotherapeutics continues to occur at an accelerated rate, their translation is often hindered by a lack of strategies to deliver them specifically into solid tumors. Accordingly, significant scientific efforts have been dedicated to understanding the underlying mechanisms that govern their delivery into tumors and the subsequent immune modulation. In this review, we aim to summarize the efforts focused on overcoming tumor-associated biological barriers and enhancing the potency of immunotherapy. We summarize the current understanding of biological barriers that limit the entry of intravascularly administered immunotherapies into the tumors, in vitro techniques developed to investigate the underlying transport processes, and delivery strategies developed to overcome the barriers. Overall, we aim to provide the reader with a framework that guides the rational development of technologies for improved solid tumor immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anvay Ukidve
- John A Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
- Wyss Institute of Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Katharina Cu
- John A Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
- Wyss Institute of Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Ninad Kumbhojkar
- John A Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA
- Wyss Institute of Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Joerg Lahann
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Department of Material Science & Engineering, Department of Macromolecular Science & Engineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, and Biointerfaces Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Samir Mitragotri
- John A Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 02138, USA.
- Wyss Institute of Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Abstract
Extensive interest in cancer immunotherapy is reported according to the clinical importance of CTLA-4 and (PD-1/PD-L1) [programmed death (PD) and programmed death-ligand (PD-L1)] in immune checkpoint therapies. AXL is a receptor tyrosine kinase expressed in different types of cancer and in relation to resistance against various anticancer therapeutics due to poor clinical prognosis. AXL and its ligand, i.e., growth arrest-specific 6 (GAS6) proteins, are expressed on many cancer cells, and the GAS6/AXL pathway is reported to promote cancer cell proliferation, survival, migration, invasion, angiogenesis, and immune evasion. AXL is an attractive and novel therapeutic target for impairing tumor progression from immune cell contracts in the tumor microenvironment. The GAS6/AXL pathway is also of interest immunologically because it targets fewer antitumor immune responses. In effect, several targeted therapies are selective and nonselective for AXL, which are in preclinical and clinical development in multiple cancer types. Therefore, this review focuses on the role of the GAS6/AXL signaling pathway in triggering the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment as immune evasion. This includes regulating its composition and activating T-cell exclusion with the immune-suppressive activity of regulatory T cells, which is related to one of the hallmarks of cancer survival. Finally, this article discusses the GAS6/AXL signaling pathway in the context of several immune responses such as NK cell activation, apoptosis, and tumor-specific immunity, especially PD-1/PDL-1 signaling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hye-Youn Son
- Department of Breast and Endocrine Surgery, Center for Medical Innovation, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hwan-Kyu Jeong
- School of Biosystems and Biomedical Sciences, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Yan D, Earp HS, DeRyckere D, Graham DK. Targeting MERTK and AXL in EGFR Mutant Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:5639. [PMID: 34830794 PMCID: PMC8616094 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13225639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
MERTK and AXL are members of the TAM family of receptor tyrosine kinases and are abnormally expressed in 69% and 93% of non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLCs), respectively. Expression of MERTK and/or AXL provides a survival advantage for NSCLC cells and correlates with lymph node metastasis, drug resistance, and disease progression in patients with NSCLC. The TAM receptors on host tumor infiltrating cells also play important roles in the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Thus, MERTK and AXL are attractive biologic targets for NSCLC treatment. Here, we will review physiologic and oncologic roles for MERTK and AXL with an emphasis on the potential to target these kinases in NSCLCs with activating EGFR mutations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dan Yan
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (D.Y.); (D.D.)
| | - H. Shelton Earp
- UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA;
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Deborah DeRyckere
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (D.Y.); (D.D.)
| | - Douglas K. Graham
- Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA; (D.Y.); (D.D.)
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Rijs Z, Jeremiasse B, Shifai N, Gelderblom H, Sier CFM, Vahrmeijer AL, van Leeuwen FWB, van der Steeg AFW, van de Sande MAJ. Introducing Fluorescence-Guided Surgery for Pediatric Ewing, Osteo-, and Rhabdomyosarcomas: A Literature Review. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9101388. [PMID: 34680505 PMCID: PMC8533294 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9101388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Sarcomas are a rare heterogeneous group of malignant neoplasms of mesenchymal origin which represent approximately 13% of all cancers in pediatric patients. The most prevalent pediatric bone sarcomas are osteosarcoma (OS) and Ewing sarcoma (ES). Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is the most frequently occurring pediatric soft tissue sarcoma. The median age of OS and ES is approximately 17 years, so this disease is also commonly seen in adults while non-pleiomorphic RMS is rare in the adult population. The mainstay of all treatment regimens is multimodal treatment containing chemotherapy, surgical resection, and sometimes (neo)adjuvant radiotherapy. A clear resection margin improves both local control and overall survival and should be the goal during surgery with a curative intent. Real-time intraoperative fluorescence-guided imaging could facilitate complete resections by visualizing tumor tissue during surgery. This review evaluates whether non-targeted and targeted fluorescence-guided surgery (FGS) could be beneficial for pediatric OS, ES, and RMS patients. Necessities for clinical implementation, current literature, and the positive as well as negative aspects of non-targeted FGS using the NIR dye Indocyanine Green (ICG) were evaluated. In addition, we provide an overview of targets that could potentially be used for FGS in OS, ES, and RMS. Then, due to the time- and cost-efficient translational perspective, we elaborate on the use of antibody-based tracers as well as their disadvantages and alternatives. Finally, we conclude with recommendations for the experiments needed before FGS can be implemented for pediatric OS, ES, and RMS patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zeger Rijs
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (N.S.); (M.A.J.v.d.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +31-641-637-074
| | - Bernadette Jeremiasse
- Department of Surgery, Princess Maxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands; (B.J.); (A.F.W.v.d.S.)
| | - Naweed Shifai
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (N.S.); (M.A.J.v.d.S.)
| | - Hans Gelderblom
- Department of Medical Oncology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands;
| | - Cornelis F. M. Sier
- Department of Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (C.F.M.S.); (A.L.V.)
- Percuros BV, 2333 CL Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Alexander L. Vahrmeijer
- Department of Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (C.F.M.S.); (A.L.V.)
| | - Fijs W. B. van Leeuwen
- Interventional Molecular Imaging Laboratory, Department of Radiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands;
| | - Alida F. W. van der Steeg
- Department of Surgery, Princess Maxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Heidelberglaan 25, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands; (B.J.); (A.F.W.v.d.S.)
| | - Michiel A. J. van de Sande
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherlands; (N.S.); (M.A.J.v.d.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Chang H, An R, Li X, Lang X, Feng J, Lv M. Anti-Axl monoclonal antibodies attenuate the migration of MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. Oncol Lett 2021; 22:749. [PMID: 34539853 PMCID: PMC8436363 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2021.13010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The receptor tyrosine kinase, anexelekto (Axl) is involved in tumor cell growth, migration and invasion, and has been associated with chemotherapy resistance, which makes it an attractive target for cancer therapy. In total, six Axl-targeted monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and two antibody-drug conjugates have been reported in the last 10 years, which have been shown to have bioactivity in inhibiting tumor cell proliferation and migration. The Axl external cell domain (Axl−ECD), consisting of 426 amino acids, has always been used as an antigen in the screening process for all six of these Axl-targeted mAbs. However, the Axl functional domain, which interacts with its natural ligand, growth arrest-specific protein 6 (Gas6), is only a small part of the Axl−ECD. Antibodies targeting the Axl functional domain may efficiently block Gas6-Axl binding and attenuate its downstream signals and activities. To the best of our knowledge, no mAbs targeting the Axl functional domain have been reported. In the present study, a major Axl functional domain interacting with Gas6 was determined using bioinformatics and structural biology methods. In MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell assays, anti-Axl mAbs targeting this relatively specific Axl functional domain almost completely neutralized the stimulation of Gas6 in both Axl phosphorylation and cell migration assays, and showed similar activity to the positive control drug R428 (a small molecular tyrosine kinase inhibitor of Axl currently in phase II clinical trials) in the cell migration assay. Given the important role of Axl in tumor development and chemotherapy resistance, Axl-targeted mAbs could be used to inhibit tumor cells directly, as well as reduce the development of chemotherapy resistance by blocking Axl activity. The application of Axl-targeted mAbs combined with chemotherapy provides a promising treatment strategy for patients with tumors, particularly those with triple-negative breast cancer, for whom no targeted therapy is currently available.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hong Chang
- Institute of Medical Technology, Suzhou Vocational Health College, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215009, P.R. China.,College of Basic Medicine, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050200, P.R. China
| | - Ran An
- College of Basic Medicine, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050200, P.R. China.,Hebei Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Research on Cardio-cerebrovascular Disease, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050051, P.R. China
| | - Xinying Li
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoling Lang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Therapeutic Gene Engineering Antibody, Beijing 100850, P.R. China
| | - Jiannan Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, P.R. China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Therapeutic Gene Engineering Antibody, Beijing 100850, P.R. China
| | - Ming Lv
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Therapeutic Gene Engineering Antibody, Beijing 100850, P.R. China.,Laboratory of Immunology, Institute of Military Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Beijing 100850, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Therapeutic Targeting of the Gas6/Axl Signaling Pathway in Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22189953. [PMID: 34576116 PMCID: PMC8469858 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22189953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Many signaling pathways are dysregulated in cancer cells and the host tumor microenvironment. Aberrant receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) pathways promote cancer development, progression, and metastasis. Hence, numerous therapeutic interventions targeting RTKs have been actively pursued. Axl is an RTK that belongs to the Tyro3, Axl, MerTK (TAM) subfamily. Axl binds to a high affinity ligand growth arrest specific 6 (Gas6) that belongs to the vitamin K-dependent family of proteins. The Gas6/Axl signaling pathway has been implicated to promote progression, metastasis, immune evasion, and therapeutic resistance in many cancer types. Therapeutic agents targeting Gas6 and Axl have been developed, and promising results have been observed in both preclinical and clinical settings when such agents are used alone or in combination therapy. This review examines the current state of therapeutics targeting the Gas6/Axl pathway in cancer and discusses Gas6- and Axl-targeting agents that have been evaluated preclinically and clinically.
Collapse
|
22
|
Tajbakhsh A, Gheibi Hayat SM, Movahedpour A, Savardashtaki A, Loveless R, Barreto GE, Teng Y, Sahebkar A. The complex roles of efferocytosis in cancer development, metastasis, and treatment. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 140:111776. [PMID: 34062411 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.111776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2021] [Revised: 05/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
When tumor cells are killed by targeted therapy, radiotherapy, or chemotherapy, they trigger their primary tumor by releasing pro-inflammatory cytokines. Microenvironmental interactions can also promote tumor heterogeneity and development. In this line, several immune cells within the tumor microenvironment, including macrophages, dendritic cells, regulatory T-cells, and CD8+ and CD4+ T cells, are involved in the clearance of apoptotic tumor cells through a process called efferocytosis. Although the efficiency of apoptotic tumor cell efferocytosis is positive under physiological conditions, there are controversies regarding its usefulness in treatment-induced apoptotic tumor cells (ATCs). Efferocytosis can show the limitation of cytotoxic treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Since cytotoxic treatments lead to extensive cell mortality, efferocytosis, and macrophage polarization toward an M2 phenotype, the immune response may get involved in tumor recurrence and metastasis. Tumor cells can use the anti-inflammatory effect of apoptotic tumor cell efferocytosis to induce an immunosuppressive condition that is tumor-tolerant. Since M2 polarization and efferocytosis are tumor-promoting processes, the receptors on macrophages act as potential targets for cancer therapy. Moreover, researchers have shown that efferocytosis-related molecules/pathways are potential targets for cancer therapy. These include phosphatidylserine and calreticulin, Tyro3, Axl, and Mer tyrosine kinase (MerTK), receptors of tyrosine kinase, indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase 1, annexin V, CD47, TGF-β, IL-10, and macrophage phenotype switch are combined with conventional therapy, which can be more effective in cancer treatment. Thus, we set out to investigate the advantages and disadvantages of efferocytosis in treatment-induced apoptotic tumor cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amir Tajbakhsh
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Seyed Mohammad Gheibi Hayat
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Ahmad Movahedpour
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Amir Savardashtaki
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Reid Loveless
- Department of Oral Biology and Diagnostic Sciences, Dental College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - George E Barreto
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland; Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Yong Teng
- Department of Oral Biology and Diagnostic Sciences, Dental College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; Georgia Cancer Center, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; Department of Medical Laboratory, Imaging and Radiologic Sciences, College of Allied Health, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Henry KA, Nguyen TD, Baral TN, Hussack G, Raphael S, Arbabi-Ghahroudi M, Robert A, Durocher Y, Wu C, Jaramillo ML, MacKenzie CR. Biparatopic single-domain antibodies against Axl achieve ultra-high affinity through intramolecular engagement. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2021; 562:154-161. [PMID: 34058562 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2021.05.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Overexpression of Axl, a TAM-family receptor tyrosine kinase, plays key roles in the formation, growth, and spread of tumors as well as resistance to targeted therapies and chemotherapies. We identified novel llama VHHs against human Axl using multiple complementary phage display selection strategies and characterized a subset of high-affinity VHHs. The VHHs targeted multiple sites in Ig-like domains 1 and 2 of the Axl extracellular domain, including an immunodominant epitope overlapping the site of Gas6 interaction and two additional non-Gas6 competitive epitopes recognized by murine monoclonal antibodies. Only a subset of VHHs cross-reacted with cynomolgus monkey Axl and none recognized mouse Axl. As fusions to human IgG1 Fc, VHH-Fcs bound Axl+ tumor cell lines and mertansine-loaded VHH-Fcs were cytotoxic in vitro against Axl+ cells in proportion to their binding affinities. Engineered biparatopic VHH-VHH heterodimers bound Axl avidly, and a subset of molecules showed dramatically enhanced association rates indicative of intramolecular binding. These VHHs may have applications as modular elements of biologic drugs such as antibody-drug conjugates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kevin A Henry
- Human Health Therapeutics Research Centre, National Research Council Canada, 100 Sussex Drive, Ottawa, Ontario, K1A 0R6, Canada; Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, Ontario, K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Thanh-Dung Nguyen
- Human Health Therapeutics Research Centre, National Research Council Canada, 100 Sussex Drive, Ottawa, Ontario, K1A 0R6, Canada
| | - Toya Nath Baral
- Human Health Therapeutics Research Centre, National Research Council Canada, 100 Sussex Drive, Ottawa, Ontario, K1A 0R6, Canada
| | - Greg Hussack
- Human Health Therapeutics Research Centre, National Research Council Canada, 100 Sussex Drive, Ottawa, Ontario, K1A 0R6, Canada
| | - Shalini Raphael
- Human Health Therapeutics Research Centre, National Research Council Canada, 100 Sussex Drive, Ottawa, Ontario, K1A 0R6, Canada
| | - Mehdi Arbabi-Ghahroudi
- Human Health Therapeutics Research Centre, National Research Council Canada, 100 Sussex Drive, Ottawa, Ontario, K1A 0R6, Canada; Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth Road, Ottawa, Ontario, K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Alma Robert
- Human Health Therapeutics Research Centre, National Research Council Canada, 6100 Royalmount Ave, Montréal, Québec, H4P 2R2, Canada
| | - Yves Durocher
- Human Health Therapeutics Research Centre, National Research Council Canada, 6100 Royalmount Ave, Montréal, Québec, H4P 2R2, Canada
| | - Cunle Wu
- Human Health Therapeutics Research Centre, National Research Council Canada, 6100 Royalmount Ave, Montréal, Québec, H4P 2R2, Canada
| | - Maria L Jaramillo
- Human Health Therapeutics Research Centre, National Research Council Canada, 6100 Royalmount Ave, Montréal, Québec, H4P 2R2, Canada
| | - C Roger MacKenzie
- Human Health Therapeutics Research Centre, National Research Council Canada, 100 Sussex Drive, Ottawa, Ontario, K1A 0R6, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Tanaka M, Dykes SS, Siemann DW. Inhibition of the Axl pathway impairs breast and prostate cancer metastasis to the bones and bone remodeling. Clin Exp Metastasis 2021; 38:321-335. [PMID: 33791875 PMCID: PMC8179919 DOI: 10.1007/s10585-021-10093-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Approximately 90% of cancer-related deaths result from cancer metastasis. In prostate and breast cancers, bone is the most common site of cancer cell dissemination. Key steps in the metastatic cascade are promoted through upregulation of critical cell signaling pathways in neoplastic cells. The present study assessed the role of the receptor tyrosine kinase Axl in prostate and breast cancer cell metastasis to bones using (i) Axl knockdown neoplastic cells and osteoclast progenitor cells in vitro, (ii) intracardiac injection of Axl knockdown tumor cells in vivo, and (iii) selective Axl inhibitor BGB324. Axl inhibition in neoplastic cells significantly decreased their metastatic potential, and suppression of Axl signaling in osteoclast precursor cells also reduced the formation of mature osteoclasts. In vivo, Axl knockdown in prostate and breast cancer cells significantly suppressed the formation and progression of bone metastases. Hence, therapeutic targeting of Axl may impair tumor metastasis to the bones through neoplastic and host cell signaling axes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mai Tanaka
- Department of Radiation Oncology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA.
| | - Samantha S Dykes
- Department of Radiation Oncology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA.,GenCure, a Subsidiary of BioBridge Global, San Antonio, TX, 78201, USA
| | - Dietmar W Siemann
- Department of Radiation Oncology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Bufalin down-regulates Axl expression to inhibit cell proliferation and induce apoptosis in non-small-cell lung cancer cells. Biosci Rep 2021; 40:222485. [PMID: 32219334 PMCID: PMC7146032 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20193959] [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: 11/22/2019] [Revised: 03/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Axl, a member of the TAM (Tyro3, AXL, Mer) receptor tyrosine kinase family, plays critical roles in cell growth, proliferation, apoptosis, and migration. In the present study, we demonstrated that the anti-cancer activity of bufalin, a major bioactive component of the Chinese traditional medicine Chan Su, is mediated by the down-regulation of Axl in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells. We observed the inhibitory effect of bufalin on the proliferation of A549 and H460 NSCLC cells and the clonogenicity of these cells was reduced by bufalin treatment in a dose-dependent manner. Next, we found that the protein level of Axl was decreased in proportion to the concentration of bufalin in both A549 and H460 cells. Moreover, the promoter activity of the Axl gene was decreased by bufalin in a dose- and time-dependent manner, indicating that bufalin down-regulates Axl gene expression at the transcriptional level. We further examined if the anti-proliferative property of bufalin is influenced by Axl at the protein level. Axl overexpression attenuated the effect of bufalin in inhibiting cell proliferation and colony formation and inducing apoptosis in H460 cells, while knockdown of Axl gene expression induced the opposite effect. Taken together, our data indicate that the anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic effects of bufalin were associated with the protein level of Axl, suggesting that Axl is a potent therapeutic target of bufalin in suppressing proliferation and inducing apoptosis in NSCLC cells.
Collapse
|
26
|
Kim NY, Yang IJ, Kim S, Lee C. Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) seedpod extract inhibits cell proliferation and induces apoptosis in non-small cell lung cancer cells via downregulation of Axl. J Food Biochem 2020; 45:e13601. [PMID: 33381866 DOI: 10.1111/jfbc.13601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most frequent cause of cancer-related death. In this study, we found the anticancer activity of lotus seedpod extract (LSPE) in NSCLC cells, since LSPE treatment inhibited cell proliferation of A549 and H460 cells in a dose-dependent manner and the clonogenic activities of LSPE-treated cells were also reduced. In LSPE-treated cells, the cleavage of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) and phosphorylation of H2X, were also observed, indicating the pro-apoptotic effect of LSPE. Next, we found that LPSE treatment diminished the levels of protein and mRNA of Axl, a receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) that transduces critical signals for cell proliferation and inhibition of apoptosis. The promoter activity of Axl was found to be dose-dependently decreased in response to LSPE treatment, implying that LSPE inhibited Axl gene expression at transcriptional level. In addition, Axl overexpression was found to decrease the effects of LSPE on inhibition of cell proliferation and colony formation as well as induction of PARP cleavage and phosphorylation of H2AX, while the same activities of LPSE were increased by knockdown of Axl gene expression, indicating that the antiproliferative and pro-apoptotic effect of LSPE is inversely proportional to the protein level of Axl. Taken together, we found that the LSPE suppressed cell proliferation and induced apoptosis of NSCLC cells, which is attenuated or augmented by overexpression or RNA interference of Axl expression, respectively. Our data suggest that Axl is a novel therapeutic target of LSPE to inhibit cell proliferation and promote apoptosis in NSCLC cells. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: In this study, lotus seedpod extract (LSPE) was found to have the cytotoxic and apoptosis-inducing potentials in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells. LSPE downregulated the Axl expression at transcriptional level and the effects of LSPE on cell proliferation as well as apoptosis were affected by Axl protein level. Therefore, the inference of Axl-mediated intracellular signals by LSPE must be a novel approach to control NSCLC. Since our data imply that LSPE contains bioactive compounds targeting Axl, further studies to elucidate these compounds might discover a potent therapeutic agent.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nam-Yi Kim
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Dongguk University, Gyeongju, South Korea
| | - In-Jun Yang
- Department of Physiology, College of Korean Medicine, Dongguk University, Gyeongju, South Korea
| | - Soyoung Kim
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Dongguk University, Gyeongju, South Korea
| | - ChuHee Lee
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Yeungnam University, Daegu, South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
von Itzstein MS, Burke MC, Brekken RA, Aguilera TA, Zeh HJ, Beg MS. Targeting TAM to Tame Pancreatic Cancer. Target Oncol 2020; 15:579-588. [PMID: 32996059 DOI: 10.1007/s11523-020-00751-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is expected to become the second leading cause of cancer-related death within the next few years. Current therapeutic strategies have limited effectiveness and therefore there is an urgency to develop novel effective therapies. The receptor tyrosine kinase subfamily TAM (Tyro3, Axl, MerTK) is directly implicated in the pathogenesis of the metastatic, chemoresistant, and immunosuppressive phenotype in pancreatic cancer. TAM inhibitors are promising investigational therapies for pancreatic cancer due to their potential to target multiple aspects of pancreatic cancer biology. Specifically, recent mechanistic investigations and therapeutic combinations in the preclinical setting suggest that TAM inhibition with chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy should be evaluated clinically.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mitchell S von Itzstein
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, TX, 75390-8852, USA
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Michael C Burke
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, TX, 75390-8852, USA
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Rolf A Brekken
- Division of Surgical Oncology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Todd A Aguilera
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Herbert J Zeh
- Division of Surgical Oncology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Muhammad Shaalan Beg
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, TX, 75390-8852, USA.
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Di Stasi R, De Rosa L, D'Andrea LD. Therapeutic aspects of the Axl/Gas6 molecular system. Drug Discov Today 2020; 25:2130-2148. [PMID: 33002607 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2020.09.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Axl receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) and its ligand, growth arrest-specific protein 6 (Gas6), are involved in several biological functions and participate in the development and progression of a range of malignancies and autoimmune disorders. In this review, we present this molecular system from a drug discovery perspective, highlighting its therapeutic implications and challenges that need to be addressed. We provide an update on Axl/Gas6 axis biology, exploring its role in fields ranging from angiogenesis, cancer development and metastasis, immune response and inflammation to viral infection. Finally, we summarize the molecules that have been developed to date to target the Axl/Gas6 molecular system for therapeutic and diagnostic applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rossella Di Stasi
- Istituto di Biostrutture e Bioimmagini, CNR, Via Mezzocannone 16, 80134 Napoli, Italy
| | - Lucia De Rosa
- Istituto di Biostrutture e Bioimmagini, CNR, Via Mezzocannone 16, 80134 Napoli, Italy
| | - Luca D D'Andrea
- Istituto di Biostrutture e Bioimmagini, CNR, Via Nizza 52, 10126 Torino, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Ibrahim AM, Moss MA, Gray Z, Rojo MD, Burke CM, Schwertfeger KL, Dos Santos CO, Machado HL. Diverse Macrophage Populations Contribute to the Inflammatory Microenvironment in Premalignant Lesions During Localized Invasion. Front Oncol 2020; 10:569985. [PMID: 33072601 PMCID: PMC7541939 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.569985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Myeloid cell heterogeneity remains poorly studied in breast cancer, and particularly in premalignancy. Here, we used single cell RNA sequencing to characterize macrophage diversity in mouse pre-invasive lesions as compared to lesions undergoing localized invasion. Several subpopulations of macrophages with transcriptionally distinct profiles were identified, two of which resembled macrophages in the steady state. While all subpopulations expressed tumor-promoting genes, many of the populations expressed pro-inflammatory genes, differing from reports in tumor-associated macrophages. Gene profiles of the myeloid cells were similar between early and late stages of premalignancy, although expansion of some subpopulations occurred. These results unravel macrophage heterogeneity in early progression and may provide insight into early intervention strategies that target macrophages.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ayman M Ibrahim
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tulane School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, United States.,Tulane Cancer Center, Louisiana Cancer Research Consortium, New Orleans, LA, United States.,Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Matthew A Moss
- Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, United States
| | - Zane Gray
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tulane School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, United States.,Tulane Cancer Center, Louisiana Cancer Research Consortium, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Michelle D Rojo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tulane School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, United States.,Tulane Cancer Center, Louisiana Cancer Research Consortium, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Caitlin M Burke
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tulane School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, United States.,Tulane Cancer Center, Louisiana Cancer Research Consortium, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Kathryn L Schwertfeger
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Masonic Cancer Center, and Center for Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
| | - Camila O Dos Santos
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, New York, NY, United States
| | - Heather L Machado
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tulane School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, United States.,Tulane Cancer Center, Louisiana Cancer Research Consortium, New Orleans, LA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Dagamajalu S, Rex DAB, Palollathil A, Shetty R, Bhat G, Cheung LWT, Prasad TSK. A pathway map of AXL receptor-mediated signaling network. J Cell Commun Signal 2020; 15:143-148. [PMID: 32829427 DOI: 10.1007/s12079-020-00580-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Shobha Dagamajalu
- Center for Systems Biology and Molecular Medicine, Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, 575018, India.
| | - D A B Rex
- Center for Systems Biology and Molecular Medicine, Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, 575018, India
| | - Akhina Palollathil
- Center for Systems Biology and Molecular Medicine, Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, 575018, India
| | - Rohan Shetty
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Yenepoya Medical College, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, 575018, India
| | - Guruprasad Bhat
- Department of Medical Oncology, Yenepoya Medical College, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, 575018, India
| | - Lydia W T Cheung
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - T S Keshava Prasad
- Center for Systems Biology and Molecular Medicine, Yenepoya Research Centre, Yenepoya (Deemed to be University), Mangalore, 575018, India.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Rocha-Brito KJP, Fonseca EMB, Oliveira BGDF, Fátima ÂD, Ferreira-Halder CV. Calix[6]arene diminishes receptor tyrosine kinase lifespan in pancreatic cancer cells and inhibits their migration and invasion efficiency. Bioorg Chem 2020; 100:103881. [PMID: 32388429 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2020.103881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2020] [Revised: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is a challenging malignancy, mainly due to aggressive regional involvement, early systemic dissemination, high recurrence rate, and subsequent low patient survival. Scientific advances have contributed in particular by identification of molecular targets as well as the definition of the mechanism of action of the drug candidate in the cellular microenvironment. Previously, we have reported the identification of the molecular mechanisms by which calix[6]arene (CLX6) reduces the viability and proliferation of pancreatic cancer cells. Now, we show the biochemical mechanisms by which CLX6 decreases the aggressiveness of Panc-1 cells, focusing specifically on receptor tyrosine kinases (RTK). The results show that clathrin-mediated endocytosis is involved in CLX6-induced AXL receptor tyrosine kinase degradation in Panc-1 cells. This response may be related to the interaction of CLX6 with the tyrosine kinase receptor binding site (such as AXL). As a result, RTK is internalized and degraded by endocytosis, a condition that negatively impacts events dependent on its signaling. Additionally, CLX6 inhibits migration and invasion of Panc-1 cells by downregulating FAK (downstream mediator of AXL) activity and reducing expression levels of MMP2 and MMP9, directly related to the metastatic profile of these cells. It is noteworthy that according to the mechanism proposed here, CLX6 appears as a candidate to be used in therapeutic protocols of patients that display high expression of AXL and consequently, poor diagnosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karin Juliane Pelizzaro Rocha-Brito
- Department of Biochemistry and Tissue Biology, Biology Institute, University of Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil; Department of Medicine, Health Sciences Center, University Center of Maringá, Maringá, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Emanuella Maria Barreto Fonseca
- Department of Biochemistry and Tissue Biology, Biology Institute, University of Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil; Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology of São Paulo, São Roque, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Ângelo de Fátima
- Department of Chemistry, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Enhancing the Efficacy of CAR T Cells in the Tumor Microenvironment of Pancreatic Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12061389. [PMID: 32481570 PMCID: PMC7353070 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12061389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Revised: 05/23/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer has the worst prognosis and lowest survival rate among all types of cancers and thus, there exists a strong need for novel therapeutic strategies. Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-modified T cells present a new potential option after successful FDA-approval in hematologic malignancies, however, current CAR T cell clinical trials in pancreatic cancer failed to improve survival and were unable to demonstrate any significant response. The physical and environmental barriers created by the distinct tumor microenvironment (TME) as a result of the desmoplastic reaction in pancreatic cancer present major hurdles for CAR T cells as a viable therapeutic option in this tumor entity. Cancer cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts express extracellular matrix molecules, enzymes, and growth factors, which can attenuate CAR T cell infiltration and efficacy. Recent efforts demonstrate a niche shift where targeting the TME along CAR T cell therapy is believed or hoped to provide a substantial clinical added value to improve overall survival. This review summarizes therapeutic approaches targeting the TME and their effect on CAR T cells as well as their outcome in preclinical and clinical trials in pancreatic cancer.
Collapse
|
33
|
Zhou Y, Yao Y, Deng Y, Shao A. Regulation of efferocytosis as a novel cancer therapy. Cell Commun Signal 2020; 18:71. [PMID: 32370748 PMCID: PMC7199874 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-020-00542-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2019] [Accepted: 02/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Efferocytosis is a physiologic phagocytic clearance of apoptotic cells, which modulates inflammatory responses and the immune environment and subsequently facilitates immune escape of cancer cells, thus promoting tumor development and progression. Efferocytosis is an equilibrium formed by perfect coordination among “find-me”, “eat-me” and “don’t-eat-me” signals. These signaling pathways not only affect the proliferation, invasion, metastasis, and angiogenesis of tumor cells but also regulate adaptive responses and drug resistance to antitumor therapies. Therefore, efferocytosis-related molecules and pathways are potential targets for antitumor therapy. Besides, supplementing conventional chemotherapy, radiotherapy and other immunotherapies with efferocytosis-targeted therapy could enhance the therapeutic efficacy, reduce off-target toxicity, and promote patient outcome. Video abstract
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yunxiang Zhou
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yihan Yao
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yongchuan Deng
- Department of Surgical Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Anwen Shao
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Ibrahim AM, Gray Z, Gomes AM, Myers L, Behbod F, Machado HL. Gas6 expression is reduced in advanced breast cancers. NPJ Precis Oncol 2020; 4:9. [PMID: 32352034 PMCID: PMC7181799 DOI: 10.1038/s41698-020-0116-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2019] [Accepted: 03/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Growth arrest-specific gene 6 (Gas6) is a cytokine that binds to receptor tyrosine kinases Tyro3, Axl, and Mer. Numerous studies have suggested that macrophage-derived Gas6 interacts with Axl to promote cancer progression, and Axl has been associated with poor clinical outcome. However, the expression and relevance of Gas6 in human breast cancer patients has not been studied. Analysis of tissue microarrays showed that Gas6 was highly expressed in ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) but markedly decreased in invasive breast cancer. Gas6 and Axl were weakly correlated, suggesting that their functions may not exclusively rely on each other. Analyses of publicly available databases showed significantly improved overall and relapse-free survival in patients with high Gas6 mRNA, particularly in luminal A breast cancers. These findings indicate that tumor-derived Gas6 is not overexpressed in invasive breast cancer, and may not be a negative prognostic factor in human breast cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ayman M. Ibrahim
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tulane Cancer Center, Tulane School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA USA
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Zane Gray
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tulane Cancer Center, Tulane School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA USA
| | - Angelica M. Gomes
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tulane Cancer Center, Tulane School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA USA
| | - Leann Myers
- Department of Biostatistics and Data Science, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, LA USA
| | - Fariba Behbod
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS USA
| | - Heather L. Machado
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tulane Cancer Center, Tulane School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA USA
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Sodir NM, Kortlever RM, Barthet VJA, Campos T, Pellegrinet L, Kupczak S, Anastasiou P, Swigart LB, Soucek L, Arends MJ, Littlewood TD, Evan GI. MYC Instructs and Maintains Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma Phenotype. Cancer Discov 2020; 10:588-607. [PMID: 31941709 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-19-0435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2019] [Revised: 11/30/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The signature features of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) are its fibroinflammatory stroma, poor immune activity, and dismal prognosis. We show that acute activation of Myc in indolent pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasm (PanIN) epithelial cells in vivo is, alone, sufficient to trigger immediate release of instructive signals that together coordinate changes in multiple stromal and immune-cell types and drive transition to pancreatic adenocarcinomas that share all the characteristic stromal features of their spontaneous human counterpart. We also demonstrate that this Myc-driven PDAC switch is completely and immediately reversible: Myc deactivation/inhibition triggers meticulous disassembly of advanced PDAC tumor and stroma and concomitant death of tumor cells. Hence, both the formation and deconstruction of the complex PDAC phenotype are continuously dependent on a single, reversible Myc switch. SIGNIFICANCE: We show that Myc activation in indolent Kras G12D-induced PanIN epithelium acts as an immediate pleiotropic switch, triggering tissue-specific signals that instruct all the diverse signature stromal features of spontaneous human PDAC. Subsequent Myc deactivation or inhibition immediately triggers a program that coordinately disassembles PDAC back to PanIN.See related commentary by English and Sears, p. 495.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicole M Sodir
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Roderik M Kortlever
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | | | - Tania Campos
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Luca Pellegrinet
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Steven Kupczak
- Cambridge Research Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | | | - Lamorna Brown Swigart
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Laura Soucek
- Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mark J Arends
- Division of Pathology, Cancer Research UK Edinburgh Centre, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Trevor D Littlewood
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Gerard I Evan
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Song X, Akasaka H, Wang H, Abbasgholizadeh R, Shin JH, Zang F, Chen J, Logsdon CD, Maitra A, Bean AJ, Wang H. Hematopoietic progenitor kinase 1 down-regulates the oncogenic receptor tyrosine kinase AXL in pancreatic cancer. J Biol Chem 2020; 295:2348-2358. [PMID: 31959629 PMCID: PMC7039544 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra119.012186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Revised: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The oncogenic receptor tyrosine kinase AXL is overexpressed in cancer and plays an important role in carcinomas of multiple organs. However, the mechanisms of AXL overexpression in cancer remain unclear. In this study, using HEK293T, Panc-1, and Panc-28 cells and samples of human pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PanIN), along with several biochemical approaches and immunofluorescence microscopy analyses, we sought to investigate the mechanisms that regulate AXL over-expression in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). We found that AXL interacts with hematopoietic progenitor kinase 1 (HPK1) and demonstrate that HPK1 down-regulates AXL and decreases its half-life. The HPK1-mediated AXL degradation was inhibited by the endocytic pathway inhibitors leupeptin, bafilomycin A1, and monensin. HPK1 accelerated the movement of AXL from the plasma membrane to endosomes in pancreatic cancer cells treated with the AXL ligand growth arrest-specific 6 (GAS6). Moreover, HPK1 increased the binding of AXL to the Cbl proto-oncogene (c-Cbl); promoted AXL ubiquitination; decreased AXL-mediated signaling, including phospho-AKT and phospho-ERK signaling; and decreased the invasion capability of PDAC cells. Importantly, we show that AXL expression inversely correlates with HPK1 expression in human PanINs and that patients whose tumors have low HPK1 and high AXL expression levels have shorter survival than those with low AXL or high HPK1 expression (p < 0.001). Our results suggest that HPK1 is a tumor suppressor that targets AXL for degradation via the endocytic pathway. HPK1 loss of function may contribute to AXL overexpression and thereby enhance AXL-dependent downstream signaling and tumor invasion in PDAC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xianzhou Song
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Hironari Akasaka
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Hua Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Reza Abbasgholizadeh
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Ji-Hyun Shin
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Fenglin Zang
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Jiayi Chen
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Craig D Logsdon
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Anirban Maitra
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030; Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Andrew J Bean
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, University of Texas McGovern Medical School, Houston, Texas 77030
| | - Huamin Wang
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030; Department of Translational Molecular Pathology, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
AXL as a Target in Breast Cancer Therapy. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2020; 2020:5291952. [PMID: 32148495 PMCID: PMC7042526 DOI: 10.1155/2020/5291952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2019] [Accepted: 01/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
AXL is a receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) that has been implicated in diverse tumor-promoting processes such as proliferation, migration, invasion, survival, and apoptosis. AXL therefore plays a role in cancer progression, and AXL has been implicated in a wide variety of malignancies from solid tumors to hematopoietic cancers where it is often associated with poor prognosis. In cancer, AXL has been shown to promote epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), metastasis formation, drug resistance, and a role for AXL in modulation of the tumor microenvironment and immune response has been identified. In light of these activities multiple AXL inhibitors have been developed, and several of these have entered clinical trials in the U.S. In breast cancer, high levels of AXL expression have been observed. The role of AXL in cancer with a focus on therapeutic implications for breast cancer is discussed.
Collapse
|
38
|
AXL receptor tyrosine kinase as a promising anti-cancer approach: functions, molecular mechanisms and clinical applications. Mol Cancer 2019; 18:153. [PMID: 31684958 PMCID: PMC6827209 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-019-1090-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 282] [Impact Index Per Article: 56.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2019] [Accepted: 10/18/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Molecular targeted therapy for cancer has been a research hotspot for decades. AXL is a member of the TAM family with the high-affinity ligand growth arrest-specific protein 6 (GAS6). The Gas6/AXL signalling pathway is associated with tumour cell growth, metastasis, invasion, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), angiogenesis, drug resistance, immune regulation and stem cell maintenance. Different therapeutic agents targeting AXL have been developed, typically including small molecule inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), nucleotide aptamers, soluble receptors, and several natural compounds. In this review, we first provide a comprehensive discussion of the structure, function, regulation, and signalling pathways of AXL. Then, we highlight recent strategies for targeting AXL in the treatment of cancer.AXL-targeted drugs, either as single agents or in combination with conventional chemotherapy or other small molecule inhibitors, are likely to improve the survival of many patients. However, future investigations into AXL molecular signalling networks and robust predictive biomarkers are warranted to select patients who could receive clinical benefit and to avoid potential toxicities.
Collapse
|
39
|
Arner EN, Du W, Brekken RA. Behind the Wheel of Epithelial Plasticity in KRAS-Driven Cancers. Front Oncol 2019; 9:1049. [PMID: 31681587 PMCID: PMC6798880 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2019.01049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 09/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Cellular plasticity, a feature associated with epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), contributes to tumor cell survival, migration, invasion, and therapy resistance. Phenotypic plasticity of the epithelium is a critical feature in multiple phases of human cancer in an oncogene- and tissue-specific context. Many factors can drive epithelial plasticity, including activating mutations in KRAS, which are found in an estimated 30% of all cancers. In this review, we will introduce cellular plasticity and its effect on cancer progression and therapy resistance and then summarize the drivers of EMT with an emphasis on KRAS effector signaling. Lastly, we will discuss the contribution of cellular plasticity to metastasis and its potential clinical implications. Understanding oncogenic KRAS cellular reprogramming has the potential to reveal novel strategies to control metastasis in KRAS-driven cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emily N Arner
- Cancer Biology Graduate Program, Department of Surgery and the Hamon Center for Therapeutic Oncology Research, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Wenting Du
- Cancer Biology Graduate Program, Department of Surgery and the Hamon Center for Therapeutic Oncology Research, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Rolf A Brekken
- Cancer Biology Graduate Program, Department of Surgery and the Hamon Center for Therapeutic Oncology Research, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States.,Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Tissue-Specific Monoallelic Expression of Bovine AXL is Associated with DNA Methylation of Promoter DMR. Biochem Genet 2019; 57:801-812. [PMID: 31073794 DOI: 10.1007/s10528-019-09925-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2018] [Accepted: 05/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The AXL protein is a receptor tyrosine kinase and is often implicated in proliferation, migration and therapy resistance in various cancers. The AXL gene in humans is maternally expressed and paternally imprinted with differentially methylated regions (DMR) surrounding the promoter region. However, the imprinting status and epigenetic regulation of AXL gene in cattle remain unclear. Therefore, we explored the molecular structure along with the patterns of allelic expression and DNA methylation of the bovine AXL gene. First, the complete cDNA sequence of bovine AXL was gathered by Sanger method, from transcripts obtained from RT-PCR, 5' and 3' -RACE. In silico BLAST alignments showed that the longest mRNA sequence of bovine AXL consists of 19 exons and encodes a protein of 887 amino acids. We further analyzed the allelic expression of bovine AXL by employing single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)-based sequencing method. A SNP site (GenBank Accession no: rs210020651) found in exon 7 allowed us to distinguish the two parental alleles. Monoallelic expression of AXL was observed in four adult bovine tissues (heart, liver, spleen and fat), while biallelic expression was found in the other adult tissues such as the lung, kidney, muscle, brain and placenta. To determine whether the DNA methylation played a role in the tissue-specific imprinting of bovine AXL, we performed bisulfite sequencing of two regions: region 1 was a CpG island (CGI) in AXL promoter, mapping to 643 bp upstream of the transcription start site of AXL 5'-v1 transcripts, while region two was homologous to the region of human AXL DMR, with 10 CpG sites overlapping the first translation start site (TSS1) of bovine AXL. In region 2, DNA from both monoallelic and biallelic expressed tissues were mostly found to be completely unmethylated. However, tissue-specific differential methylation patterns were found in monoallelic expressed tissues such as the heart and liver while hypomethylation was noted in the promoter CpG island in biallelic expressed tissues such as the lung. These observations demonstrated that the tissue-specific monoallelic expression of bovine AXL is dependent on the DNA methylation of its promoter region.
Collapse
|
41
|
Duan Y, Hu B, Qiao C, Luo L, Li X, Wang J, Liu H, Zhou T, Shen B, Lv M, Feng J. Engineered AXL -ECD-Fc variants that abolish the AXL/Gas6 interaction suppress tumor cell migration. Oncol Lett 2019; 17:5784-5792. [PMID: 31186805 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2019.10255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2018] [Accepted: 03/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
AXL receptor tyrosine kinase ligand (AXL), a tyrosine kinase receptor that is commonly overexpressed in numerous types of cancer, significantly promotes drug resistance and metastasis in tumor cells. Inhibition of the AXL/growth arrest-specific 6 (Gas6) signaling pathway is emerging as a potential anticancer therapeutic strategy. In the present study, on the basis of the three-dimensional complex structure of AXL/Gas6, the critical residues (E56, E59 and T77) in AXL binding to Gas6 were determined using computer graphics analysis and the distance geometry method. Subsequently, four-variant AXL-ECD-Fc-M1 (G32S, D87G, V92A and G127R) and AXL-ECD-Fc-M2 (G32A, D87A, V92A and G127A) were predicted as high-affinity mutants; AXL-ECD-Fc-M3 (E56R and T77R) and AXL-ECD-Fc-M4 (E59R and T77R) were predicted as low-affinity mutants. The results of the present study revealed that the half-maximal effect concentrations of AXL-ECD-Fc-M1 and AXL-ECD-Fc-M2 were ~0.141 and 0.375 µg/ml, respectively, whereas that of the wild-type protein (AXL-ECD-Fc-WT) was 0.514 µg/ml. Furthermore, adding the high-affinity mutants into culture medium to capture free Gas6 significantly inhibited AXL/Gas6 binding and thus blocked the downstream signaling pathway. In addition, the high-affinity mutants effectively suppressed the migration and metastasis of SKOV3 and A549 cells. Conversely, compared with AXL-ECD-Fc-WT, the low-affinity AXL mutants AXL-ECD-Fc-M3 and AXL-ECD-Fc-M4 lost all inhibitory activities. These findings highlight AXL as a potential therapeutic target and demonstrated that the key residues E56, E59 and T77 may be crucial sites for abolishing the activity of the AXL/Gas6 pathway in cancer therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanting Duan
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, P.R. China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Therapeutic Gene Engineering Antibody, Beijing 100850, P.R. China
| | - Bo Hu
- Department of Ultrasound, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430022, P.R. China
| | - Chunxia Qiao
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, P.R. China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Therapeutic Gene Engineering Antibody, Beijing 100850, P.R. China
| | - Longlong Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, P.R. China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Therapeutic Gene Engineering Antibody, Beijing 100850, P.R. China
| | - Xinying Li
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Therapeutic Gene Engineering Antibody, Beijing 100850, P.R. China.,Laboratory of Immunology, Institute of Military Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Beijing 100850, P.R. China
| | - Jing Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, P.R. China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Therapeutic Gene Engineering Antibody, Beijing 100850, P.R. China
| | - Hao Liu
- Joint National Laboratory for Antibody Drug Engineering, Henan University, Zhengzhou, Henan 475004, P.R. China
| | - Tingting Zhou
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Therapeutic Gene Engineering Antibody, Beijing 100850, P.R. China.,Laboratory of Immunology, Institute of Military Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Beijing 100850, P.R. China
| | - Beifen Shen
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Therapeutic Gene Engineering Antibody, Beijing 100850, P.R. China.,Laboratory of Immunology, Institute of Military Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Beijing 100850, P.R. China
| | - Ming Lv
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Therapeutic Gene Engineering Antibody, Beijing 100850, P.R. China.,Laboratory of Immunology, Institute of Military Cognitive and Brain Sciences, Beijing 100850, P.R. China
| | - Jiannan Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Toxicology and Medical Countermeasures, Beijing Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Beijing 100850, P.R. China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Therapeutic Gene Engineering Antibody, Beijing 100850, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Bourillon L, Bourgier C, Gaborit N, Garambois V, Llès E, Zampieri A, Ogier C, Jarlier M, Radosevic-Robin N, Orsetti B, Delpech H, Theillet C, Colombo PE, Azria D, Pèlegrin A, Larbouret C, Chardès T. An auristatin-based antibody-drug conjugate targeting HER3 enhances the radiation response in pancreatic cancer. Int J Cancer 2019; 145:1838-1851. [PMID: 30882895 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.32273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Revised: 02/20/2019] [Accepted: 03/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an aggressive cancer characterized by poor response to chemotherapy and radiotherapy due to the lack of efficient therapeutic tools and early diagnostic markers. We previously generated the nonligand competing anti-HER3 antibody 9F7-F11 that binds to pancreatic tumor cells and induces tumor regression in vivo in experimental models. Here, we asked whether coupling 9F7-F11 with a radiosensitizer, such as monomethylauristatin E (MMAE), by using the antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) technology could improve radiation therapy efficacy in PDAC. We found that the MMAE-based HER3 antibody-drug conjugate (HER3-ADC) was efficiently internalized in tumor cells, increased the fraction of cells arrested in G2/M, which is the most radiosensitive phase of the cell cycle, and promoted programmed cell death of irradiated HER3-positive pancreatic cancer cells (BxPC3 and HPAC cell lines). HER3-ADC decreased the clonogenic survival of irradiated cells by increasing DNA double-strand break formation (based on γH2AX level), and by modulating DNA damage repair. Tumor radiosensitization with HER3-ADC favored the inhibition of the AKT-induced survival pathway, together with more efficient caspase 3/PARP-mediated apoptosis. Incubation with HER3-ADC before irradiation synergistically reduced the phosphorylation of STAT3, which is involved in chemoradiation resistance. In vivo, the combination of HER3-ADC with radiation therapy increased the overall survival of mice harboring BxPC3, HPAC cell xenografts or patient-derived xenografts, and reduced proliferation (KI67-positive cells). Combining auristatin radiosensitizer delivery via an HER3-ADC with radiotherapy is a new promising therapeutic strategy in PDAC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Bourillon
- Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier (IRCM), INSERM U1194, Université de Montpellier, Institut Régional du Cancer de Montpellier (ICM), 34298, Montpellier, France
| | - Céline Bourgier
- Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier (IRCM), INSERM U1194, Université de Montpellier, Institut Régional du Cancer de Montpellier (ICM), 34298, Montpellier, France.,Institut Régional du Cancer de Montpellier (ICM), 34298, Montpellier, France
| | - Nadège Gaborit
- Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier (IRCM), INSERM U1194, Université de Montpellier, Institut Régional du Cancer de Montpellier (ICM), 34298, Montpellier, France
| | - Véronique Garambois
- Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier (IRCM), INSERM U1194, Université de Montpellier, Institut Régional du Cancer de Montpellier (ICM), 34298, Montpellier, France
| | - Eva Llès
- Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier (IRCM), INSERM U1194, Université de Montpellier, Institut Régional du Cancer de Montpellier (ICM), 34298, Montpellier, France
| | - Alexandre Zampieri
- Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier (IRCM), INSERM U1194, Université de Montpellier, Institut Régional du Cancer de Montpellier (ICM), 34298, Montpellier, France
| | - Charline Ogier
- Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier (IRCM), INSERM U1194, Université de Montpellier, Institut Régional du Cancer de Montpellier (ICM), 34298, Montpellier, France
| | - Marta Jarlier
- Institut Régional du Cancer de Montpellier (ICM), 34298, Montpellier, France
| | - Nina Radosevic-Robin
- Department of Biopathology, Jean Perrin Comprehensive Cancer Center and INSERM/UCA UMR 1240, 63011, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Béatrice Orsetti
- Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier (IRCM), INSERM U1194, Université de Montpellier, Institut Régional du Cancer de Montpellier (ICM), 34298, Montpellier, France
| | - Hélène Delpech
- Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier (IRCM), INSERM U1194, Université de Montpellier, Institut Régional du Cancer de Montpellier (ICM), 34298, Montpellier, France
| | - Charles Theillet
- Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier (IRCM), INSERM U1194, Université de Montpellier, Institut Régional du Cancer de Montpellier (ICM), 34298, Montpellier, France
| | - Pierre-Emmanuel Colombo
- Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier (IRCM), INSERM U1194, Université de Montpellier, Institut Régional du Cancer de Montpellier (ICM), 34298, Montpellier, France.,Institut Régional du Cancer de Montpellier (ICM), 34298, Montpellier, France
| | - David Azria
- Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier (IRCM), INSERM U1194, Université de Montpellier, Institut Régional du Cancer de Montpellier (ICM), 34298, Montpellier, France.,Institut Régional du Cancer de Montpellier (ICM), 34298, Montpellier, France
| | - André Pèlegrin
- Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier (IRCM), INSERM U1194, Université de Montpellier, Institut Régional du Cancer de Montpellier (ICM), 34298, Montpellier, France
| | - Christel Larbouret
- Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier (IRCM), INSERM U1194, Université de Montpellier, Institut Régional du Cancer de Montpellier (ICM), 34298, Montpellier, France
| | - Thierry Chardès
- Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier (IRCM), INSERM U1194, Université de Montpellier, Institut Régional du Cancer de Montpellier (ICM), 34298, Montpellier, France.,Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
TYRO3 as a molecular target for growth inhibition and apoptosis induction in bladder cancer. Br J Cancer 2019; 120:555-564. [PMID: 30765874 PMCID: PMC6461973 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-019-0397-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2018] [Revised: 12/18/2018] [Accepted: 01/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) is an aggressive neoplasm with poor prognosis, lacking effective therapeutic targets. Oncogenic dependency on members of the TAM tyrosine kinase receptor family (TYRO3, AXL, MERTK) has been reported in several cancer types, but their role in bladder cancer has never been explored. Methods TAM receptor expression was evaluated in two series of human bladder tumours by gene expression (TCGA and CIT series), immunohistochemistry and western blotting analyses (CIT series). The role of the different TAM receptors was assessed by loss-of-function experiments and pharmaceutical inhibition in vitro and in vivo. Results We reported a significantly higher expression of TYRO3, but not AXL or MERTK, in both non-MIBCs and MIBCs, compared to normal urothelium. Loss-of-function experiments identified a TYRO3-dependency of bladder carcinoma-derived cells both in vitro and in a mouse xenograft model, whereas AXL and MERTK depletion had only a minor impact on cell viability. Accordingly, TYRO3-dependent bladder tumour cells were sensitive to pharmacological treatment with two pan-TAM inhibitors. Finally, growth inhibition upon TYRO3 depletion relies on cell cycle inhibition and apoptosis associated with induction of tumour-suppressive signals. Conclusions Our results provide a preclinical proof of concept for TYRO3 as a potential therapeutic target in bladder cancer.
Collapse
|
44
|
Abstract
IMPACT STATEMENT Cancer is among the leading causes of death worldwide. In 2016, 8.9 million people are estimated to have died from various forms of cancer. The current treatments, including surgery with chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy, are not effective enough to provide full protection from cancer, which highlights the need for developing novel therapy strategies. In this review, we summarize the molecular biology of a unique member of a subfamily of receptor tyrosine kinase, TYRO3 and discuss the new insights in TYRO3-targeted treatment for cancer therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pei-Ling Hsu
- 1 Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 70101, Taiwan
| | - Jonathan Jou
- 2 College of Medicine, University of Illinois, IL 60612, USA
| | - Shaw-Jenq Tsai
- 1 Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 70101, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
AXL phosphorylates and up-regulates TNS2 and its implications in IRS-1-associated metabolism in cancer cells. J Biomed Sci 2018; 25:80. [PMID: 30419905 PMCID: PMC6233515 DOI: 10.1186/s12929-018-0465-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2018] [Accepted: 08/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background TNS2 is a focal adhesions protein and a binding partner for many proteins, including the receptor tyrosine kinase Axl. Although TNS2 can bind with Axl, the details of their interactions have not been elucidated. TNS2 is involved in IRS-1 signaling pathway. In this study, we confirmed the relationship between TNS2 expression and the expression of Axl, IRS-1, PDK1 and Glut4 in pancreatic cancer patients. Methods The expression levels of TNS2, Axl, IRS-1, PDK1 and Glut4 in human cancer cells were measured by Western blot and/or IP-Western blot assays. Paired samples of pancreatic cancer and non-cancer tissues were obtained from 33 patients and were used to construct tissue microarrays. The expression levels of these markers in the tissue microarrays were measured by enzyme-linked Immunohistochemistry assay, and the relationships were analyzed by Pearson’s chi-square test and two-tailed t-test analysis. Results We demonstrated for the first time that TNS2 is a phosphorylation substrate of Axl. Moreover, we found a positive relationship between TNS2 expression and the expression of Axl, IRS-1, PDK1 and Glut4 in pancreatic cancer patients. Based on these results, we suggest that Axl modulates glucose metabolism potentially through TNS2 and IRS-1. We hypothesize that there exists a novel mechanism whereby Axl binds to and phosphorylates TNS2, releasing TNS2 from interaction with IRS-1 and resulting in increased stability of IRS-1. The two key enzymes of aerobic glycolysis (Glut4 and PDK1) were found to be up-regulated by Axl/TNS2/IRS-1 cross-talk and may play a critical role in glucose metabolism of cancer cells. Conclusions Our results revealed for the first time that Axl binds to and phosphorylates TNS2 and that Axl/TNS2/IRS-1 cross-talk may potentially play a critical role in glucose metabolism of cancer cells. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12929-018-0465-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
|
46
|
Du W, Brekken RA. Does Axl have potential as a therapeutic target in pancreatic cancer? Expert Opin Ther Targets 2018; 22:955-966. [PMID: 30244621 PMCID: PMC6292430 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2018.1527315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pancreatic cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related death. Metastasis, therapy resistance, and immunosuppression are dominant characteristics of pancreatic tumors. Strategies that enhance the efficacy of standard of care and/or immune therapy are likely the most efficient route to improve overall survival in this disease. Areas covered: Axl, a member of the TAM (Tyro3, Axl, MerTK) family of receptor tyrosine kinases, is involved in cell plasticity, chemoresistance, immune suppression, and metastasis in various cancers, including pancreatic cancer. This review provides an overview of Axl and its function in normal conditions, summarizes the regulation and function of Axl in cancer, and highlights the contribution of Axl to pancreatic cancer as well as its potential as a therapeutic target. Expert opinion: Axl is an attractive therapeutic target in pancreatic cancer because it contributes to many of the roadblocks that hamper therapeutic efficacy. Clinical evidence supporting Axl inhibition in pancreatic cancer is currently limited; however, multiple clinical trials have been initiated or are in the planning phase to test the effect of inhibiting Axl in conjunction with standard therapy in pancreatic cancer patients. We anticipate that these studies will provide robust validation of Axl as a therapeutic target in pancreatic cancer.
Collapse
|
47
|
Ogier C, Colombo PE, Bousquet C, Canterel-Thouennon L, Sicard P, Garambois V, Thomas G, Gaborit N, Jarlier M, Pirot N, Pugnière M, Vie N, Gongora C, Martineau P, Robert B, Pèlegrin A, Chardès T, Larbouret C. Targeting the NRG1/HER3 pathway in tumor cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts with an anti-neuregulin 1 antibody inhibits tumor growth in pre-clinical models of pancreatic cancer. Cancer Lett 2018; 432:227-236. [PMID: 29935372 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2018.06.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2018] [Revised: 06/15/2018] [Accepted: 06/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Neuregulin 1 (NRG1), a ligand for HER3 and HER4 receptors, is secreted by both pancreatic tumor cells (PC) and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), the latter representing the most abundant compound of pancreatic stroma. This desmoplastic stroma contributes to Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma (PDAC) aggressiveness and therapeutic failure by promoting tumor progression, invasion and resistance to chemotherapies. In the present work, we aimed at disrupting the complex crosstalk between PC and CAF in order to prevent tumor cell proliferation. To do so, we demonstrated the promising tumor growth inhibitory effect of the 7E3, an original antibody directed to NRG1. This antibody promotes antibody dependent cellular cytotoxicity in NRG1-positive PC and CAFs and inhibits NRG1-associated signaling pathway induction, by blocking NRG1-mediated HER3 activation. Moreover, 7E3 inhibits migration and growth of pancreatic cancer cells co-cultured with CAFs, both in vitro and in vivo using orthotopic pancreatic tumor xenografts. Our preclinical results demonstrate that the anti-NRG1 antibody 7E3 could represent a promising approach to target pancreatic stroma and cancer cells, thereby providing novel therapeutic options for PDAC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charline Ogier
- IRCM, Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier, INSERM U1194, Université de Montpellier, Institut régional du Cancer de Montpellier, Montpellier, F-34298, France
| | - Pierre-Emmanuel Colombo
- IRCM, Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier, INSERM U1194, Université de Montpellier, Institut régional du Cancer de Montpellier, Montpellier, F-34298, France; Institut régional du Cancer de Montpellier (ICM), Val d'Aurelle, Montpellier, F-34298, France
| | - Corinne Bousquet
- Cancer Research Center of Toulouse (CRCT), INSERM UMR 1037-University Toulouse III Paul Sabatier, Toulouse, France
| | - Lucile Canterel-Thouennon
- IRCM, Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier, INSERM U1194, Université de Montpellier, Institut régional du Cancer de Montpellier, Montpellier, F-34298, France
| | - Pierre Sicard
- PhyMedExp, IPAM, University of Montpellier, INSERM U1046, CNRS UMR 9214, 34295, Montpellier cedex 5, France
| | - Véronique Garambois
- IRCM, Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier, INSERM U1194, Université de Montpellier, Institut régional du Cancer de Montpellier, Montpellier, F-34298, France
| | - Gaëlle Thomas
- IRCM, Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier, INSERM U1194, Université de Montpellier, Institut régional du Cancer de Montpellier, Montpellier, F-34298, France
| | - Nadège Gaborit
- IRCM, Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier, INSERM U1194, Université de Montpellier, Institut régional du Cancer de Montpellier, Montpellier, F-34298, France
| | - Marta Jarlier
- Institut régional du Cancer de Montpellier (ICM), Val d'Aurelle, Montpellier, F-34298, France
| | - Nelly Pirot
- IRCM, Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier, INSERM U1194, Université de Montpellier, Institut régional du Cancer de Montpellier, Montpellier, F-34298, France
| | - Martine Pugnière
- IRCM, Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier, INSERM U1194, Université de Montpellier, Institut régional du Cancer de Montpellier, Montpellier, F-34298, France
| | - Nadia Vie
- IRCM, Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier, INSERM U1194, Université de Montpellier, Institut régional du Cancer de Montpellier, Montpellier, F-34298, France
| | - Céline Gongora
- IRCM, Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier, INSERM U1194, Université de Montpellier, Institut régional du Cancer de Montpellier, Montpellier, F-34298, France
| | - Pierre Martineau
- IRCM, Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier, INSERM U1194, Université de Montpellier, Institut régional du Cancer de Montpellier, Montpellier, F-34298, France
| | - Bruno Robert
- IRCM, Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier, INSERM U1194, Université de Montpellier, Institut régional du Cancer de Montpellier, Montpellier, F-34298, France
| | - André Pèlegrin
- IRCM, Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier, INSERM U1194, Université de Montpellier, Institut régional du Cancer de Montpellier, Montpellier, F-34298, France
| | - Thierry Chardès
- IRCM, Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier, INSERM U1194, Université de Montpellier, Institut régional du Cancer de Montpellier, Montpellier, F-34298, France
| | - Christel Larbouret
- IRCM, Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier, INSERM U1194, Université de Montpellier, Institut régional du Cancer de Montpellier, Montpellier, F-34298, France.
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Wu G, Ma Z, Cheng Y, Hu W, Deng C, Jiang S, Li T, Chen F, Yang Y. Targeting Gas6/TAM in cancer cells and tumor microenvironment. Mol Cancer 2018; 17:20. [PMID: 29386018 PMCID: PMC5793417 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-018-0769-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2017] [Accepted: 01/17/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Growth arrest-specific 6, also known as Gas6, is a human gene encoding the Gas6 protein, which was originally found to be upregulated in growth-arrested fibroblasts. Gas6 is a member of the vitamin K-dependent family of proteins expressed in many human tissues and regulates several biological processes in cells, including proliferation, survival and migration, by binding to its receptors Tyro3, Axl and Mer (TAM). In recent years, the roles of Gas6/TAM signalling in cancer cells and the tumour microenvironment have been studied, and some progress has made in targeted therapy, providing new potential directions for future investigations of cancer treatment. In this review, we introduce the Gas6 and TAM receptors and describe their involvement in different cancers and discuss the roles of Gas6 in cancer cells, the tumour microenvironment and metastasis. Finally, we introduce recent studies on Gas6/TAM targeting in cancer therapy, which will assist in the experimental design of future analyses and increase the potential use of Gas6 as a therapeutic target for cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guiling Wu
- 0000 0004 1761 5538grid.412262.1Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education. Faculty of Life Sciences, Northwest University, 229 Taibai North Road, Xi’an, 710069 China ,0000 0004 1761 4404grid.233520.5Department of Aerospace Medicine, The Fourth Military Medical University, 169 Changle West Road, Xi’an, 710032 China
| | - Zhiqiang Ma
- 0000 0004 1791 6584grid.460007.5Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tangdu Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, 1 Xinsi Road, Xi’an, 710038 China
| | - Yicheng Cheng
- 0000 0004 1765 1045grid.410745.3Department of Stomatology, Bayi Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210002 China
| | - Wei Hu
- 0000 0004 1761 4404grid.233520.5Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Fourth Military Medical University, 169 Changle West Road, Xi’an, 710032 China
| | - Chao Deng
- grid.452438.cDepartment of Cardiovascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, 277 Yanta West Road, Xi’an, Shaanxi 710061 China
| | - Shuai Jiang
- 0000 0004 1761 4404grid.233520.5Department of Aerospace Medicine, The Fourth Military Medical University, 169 Changle West Road, Xi’an, 710032 China
| | - Tian Li
- 0000 0004 1765 1045grid.410745.3Department of Stomatology, Bayi Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210002 China
| | - Fulin Chen
- 0000 0004 1761 5538grid.412262.1Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education. Faculty of Life Sciences, Northwest University, 229 Taibai North Road, Xi’an, 710069 China
| | - Yang Yang
- 0000 0004 1761 5538grid.412262.1Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education. Faculty of Life Sciences, Northwest University, 229 Taibai North Road, Xi’an, 710069 China ,0000 0004 1761 4404grid.233520.5Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Fourth Military Medical University, 169 Changle West Road, Xi’an, 710032 China
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Sarode GS, Sarode SC, Maniyar N, Sharma NK, Patil S. Carcinogenesis-relevant biological events in the pathophysiology of the efferocytosis phenomenon. Oncol Rev 2017; 11:343. [PMID: 29285321 PMCID: PMC5733395 DOI: 10.4081/oncol.2017.343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2017] [Accepted: 12/01/2017] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The effective removal of cells undergoing programmed cell death, which is referred to as efferocytosis, prevents the leakage of intracellular contents into the surrounding tissue, which could lead to tissue damage and inflammation. Efferocytosis involves a coordinated orchestration of multiple steps that lead to a swift, coherent and immunologically silent removal of dying cells. The release of wound healing cytokines, which resolve inflammation and enhance tissue repair, is an important feature of efferocytosis. However, in addition to the healing cytokines released during efferocytosis, the immunosuppressive action of cytokines promotes the tumor microenvironment, enhances the motility of cancer cells and promotes the evasion of antitumor immunity. The aim of the present review was to comprehensively discuss the efferocytosis phenomenon, the important players associated with this process and their role in cancer-related biological events.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gargi Sachin Sarode
- Department of Oral Pathology and Microbiology, Dr. D. Y. Patil Dental College and Hospital, Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Sant-Tukaram Nagar, Pimpri, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Sachin C Sarode
- Department of Oral Pathology and Microbiology, Dr. D. Y. Patil Dental College and Hospital, Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Sant-Tukaram Nagar, Pimpri, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Nikunj Maniyar
- Department of Oral Pathology and Microbiology, Dr. D. Y. Patil Dental College and Hospital, Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Sant-Tukaram Nagar, Pimpri, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Nilesh Kumar Sharma
- Cancer and Translational Research Lab, Dr. D.Y. Patil Biotechnology & Bioinformatics Institute, Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Shankargouda Patil
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Diagnostic Sciences, Division of Oral Pathology, College of Dentistry, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Ludwig KF, Du W, Sorrelle NB, Wnuk-Lipinska K, Topalovski M, Toombs JE, Cruz VH, Yabuuchi S, Rajeshkumar NV, Maitra A, Lorens JB, Brekken RA. Small-Molecule Inhibition of Axl Targets Tumor Immune Suppression and Enhances Chemotherapy in Pancreatic Cancer. Cancer Res 2017; 78:246-255. [PMID: 29180468 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-17-1973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2017] [Revised: 10/02/2017] [Accepted: 11/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Activation of the receptor tyrosine kinase Axl is associated with poor outcomes in pancreatic cancer (PDAC), where it coordinately mediates immune evasion and drug resistance. Here, we demonstrate that the selective Axl kinase inhibitor BGB324 targets the tumor-immune interface to blunt the aggressive traits of PDAC cells in vitro and enhance gemcitibine efficacy in vivo Axl signaling stimulates the TBK1-NFκB pathway and innate immune suppression in the tumor microenvironment. In tumor cells, BGB324 treatment drove epithelial differentiation, expression of nucleoside transporters affecting gemcitabine response, and an immune stimulatory microenvironment. Our results establish a preclinical mechanistic rationale for the clinical development of Axl inhibitors to improve the treatment of PDAC patients.Significance: These results establish a preclinical mechanistic rationale for the clinical development of AXL inhibitors to improve the treatment of PDAC patients. Cancer Res; 78(1); 246-55. ©2017 AACR.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen F Ludwig
- Division of Pediatric Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas.,Hamon Center for Therapeutic Oncology Research, Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Wenting Du
- Hamon Center for Therapeutic Oncology Research, Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Noah B Sorrelle
- Hamon Center for Therapeutic Oncology Research, Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | | | - Mary Topalovski
- Hamon Center for Therapeutic Oncology Research, Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Jason E Toombs
- Hamon Center for Therapeutic Oncology Research, Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Victoria H Cruz
- Hamon Center for Therapeutic Oncology Research, Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Shinichi Yabuuchi
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - N V Rajeshkumar
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Anirban Maitra
- Departments of Pathology and Translational Molecular Pathology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - James B Lorens
- Department of Biomedicine, Centre for Cancer Biomarkers, Norwegian Centre of Excellence, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Rolf A Brekken
- Hamon Center for Therapeutic Oncology Research, Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas. .,Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| |
Collapse
|