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Wang Z, Li R, Yang G, Wang Y. Cancer stem cell biomarkers and related signalling pathways. J Drug Target 2024; 32:33-44. [PMID: 38095181 DOI: 10.1080/1061186x.2023.2295222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) represent a distinct subset of neoplastic cells characterised by their heightened capacity for tumorigenesis. These cells are implicated in the facilitation of cancer metastasis, recurrence, and resistance to conventional therapeutic interventions. Extensive scientific research has been devoted to the identification of biomarkers and the elucidation of molecular mechanisms in order to improve targeted therapeutic approaches. Accurate identification of cancer stem cells based on biomarkers can provide a theoretical basis for drug combinations of malignant tumours. Targeted biomarker-based therapies also offer a silver lining for patients with advanced malignancies. This review aims comprehensively to consolidate the latest findings on CSCs biomarkers, targeted agents as well as biomarkers associated signalling pathways in well-established cancer types, thereby contributing to improved prognostic outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhe Wang
- School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Infectious Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Rui Li
- School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Guilin Yang
- Department of Infectious Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yijin Wang
- School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
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2
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Ochirbat S, Kan TC, Hsu CC, Huang TH, Chuang KH, Chen M, Cheng CC, Chang CC, Rahayu S, Chang J. The angiogenic role of the alpha 9-nicotinic acetylcholine receptor in triple-negative breast cancers. Angiogenesis 2024:10.1007/s10456-024-09944-6. [PMID: 39177676 DOI: 10.1007/s10456-024-09944-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024]
Abstract
Nicotine acts as an angiogenic factor by stimulating endogenous cholinergic pathways. Several subtypes of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) have been demonstrated to be closely correlated to the formation and progression of different types of cancers. Recently, several studies have found that nicotinic acetylcholine receptors α9 (α9-nAChRs) are highly expressed in breast tumors, especially in tumors derived from patients diagnosed at advanced stages. In vitro studies have demonstrated that activation of α9-nAChRs is associated with increased proliferation and migration of breast cancer. To study the tumor-promoting role of α9-nAChRs in breast cancers, we generated a novel anti-α9-nAChR and methoxy-polyethylene glycol (mPEG) bispecific antibody (α9 BsAb) for dissecting the molecular mechanism on α9-nAChR-mediated tumor progression. Unexpectedly, we discovered the angiogenic role of α9-nAChR in nicotine-induced neovascularization of tumors. It revealed α9 BsAbs reduced nicotine-induced endothelial cell tube formation, blood vessel development in Matrigel plug assay and angiogenesis in microtube array membrane murine model (MTAMs). To unbraid the molecular mechanism of α9-nAChR in nicotine-mediated angiogenesis, the α9 BsAbs were applied and revealed the inhibitory roles in nicotine-induced production of hypoxia-inducible factor-2 alpha (HIF-2α), vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A), phosphorylated vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (p-VEGFR2), vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP9) from triple-negative breast cancer cells (MDA-MB-231), suggesting α9-nAChRs played an important role in nicotine-induced angiogenesis. To confirm our results, the shRNA targeting α9-nAChRs was designed and used to silence α9-nAChR expression and then evaluated the angiogenic role of α9-nAChRs. The results showed α9 shRNA also played an inhibitory effect in blocking the nicotine-induced angiogenic signaling. Taken together, α9-nAChR played a critical role in nicotine-induced angiogenesis and this bispecific antibody (α9 BsAb) may serve as a potential therapeutic candidate for treatments of the α9 positive cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonjid Ochirbat
- International Ph.D. Program in Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan
| | - Tzu-Chun Kan
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan
- Genomics Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, 115, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Chun Hsu
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan
- School of Respiratory Therapy, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan
| | - Tzu-Hsuan Huang
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, 23561, Taiwan
| | - Kuo-Hsiang Chuang
- Graduate Institute of Pharmacognosy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan
| | - Michael Chen
- Graduate Institute of Pharmacognosy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Chia Cheng
- Research Center of Radiation Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, 33302, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Chao Chang
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan
- TMU Research Center for Digestive Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan
| | - Sri Rahayu
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Science, Universitas Negeri Jakarta, Jakarta, 13220, Indonesia
| | - Jungshan Chang
- International Ph.D. Program in Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan.
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan.
- International Ph.D. Program for Cell Therapy and Regeneration Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan.
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3
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Xiong W, Zheng B, Liu D, Pu M, Zhou S, Deng Y. Quercetin inhibits endothelial & hepatocellular carcinoma cell crosstalk via reducing extracellular vesicle-mediated VEGFR2 mRNA transfer. Mol Carcinog 2024. [PMID: 39171838 DOI: 10.1002/mc.23807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2024] [Revised: 06/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024]
Abstract
This study aims to investigate the regulatory effects of quercetin extracellular vesicles (EVs)-mediated expression of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)-derived circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and the underlying mechanisms. CTCs were isolated from patients with pathologically diagnosed HCC, with VEGFR2 expression visualized by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). The human HCC cell line Huh-7 and SK-HEP-1 were used for in vitro studies to assess EVs uptake, VEGFR2 mRNA transfer, invasion, migration, cancer stem cell (CSC) properties, and VEGF secretion. Results showed that VEGFR2 mRNA was commonly expressed in HCC-CTCs, with a higher incidence in biphenotypic CTCs. Its expression was limited in HCC cell lines, but present in certain liver cells. In vitro experiments confirmed that VEGFR2 mRNA could be transferred to HCC cells via EVs from primary tumor endothelial cells (PTECs), which was impaired by quercetin treatment. Quercetin significantly reduced VEGFR2 mRNA and protein expression in HCC cells, weakened their invasive and metastatic capacities, and diminished VEGFR2-mediated CSC properties. In vivo, quercetin reduced VEGF secretion, impaired angiogenesis, slowed tumor growth, and decreased the number and proportion of VEGFR2-positive CTCs. In summary, VEGFR2 mRNA is present in HCC-CTCs, potentially sourced from PTECs-derived EVs. Quercetin effectively inhibits VEGFR2 expression, impacting HCC cell invasion, metastasis, and CSC characteristics. Besides, it reduces VEGFR2-positive CTCs in vivo. These effects support its therapeutic potential in HCC treatment by targeting the angiogenesis and tumor dissemination pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Xiong
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Sichuan Academy of Medical Science & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Bo Zheng
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Sichuan Academy of Medical Science & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Di Liu
- Cancer Center, Sichuan Academy of Medical Science & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Mo Pu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Sichuan Academy of Medical Science & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Shijie Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ying Deng
- Cancer Center, Sichuan Academy of Medical Science & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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Hushmandi K, Saadat SH, Mirilavasani S, Daneshi S, Aref AR, Nabavi N, Raesi R, Taheriazam A, Hashemi M. The multifaceted role of SOX2 in breast and lung cancer dynamics. Pathol Res Pract 2024; 260:155386. [PMID: 38861919 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2024.155386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
Breast and lung cancers are leading causes of death among patients, with their global mortality and morbidity rates increasing. Conventional treatments often prove inadequate due to resistance development. The alteration of molecular interactions may accelerate cancer progression and treatment resistance. SOX2, known for its abnormal expression in various human cancers, can either accelerate or impede cancer progression. This review focuses on examining the role of SOX2 in breast and lung cancer development. An imbalance in SOX2 expression can promote the growth and dissemination of these cancers. SOX2 can also block programmed cell death, affecting autophagy and other cell death mechanisms. It plays a significant role in cancer metastasis, mainly by regulating the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Additionally, an imbalanced SOX2 expression can cause resistance to chemotherapy and radiation therapy in these cancers. Genetic and epigenetic factors may affect SOX2 levels. Pharmacologically targeting SOX2 could improve the effectiveness of breast and lung cancer treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiavash Hushmandi
- Nephrology and Urology Research Center, Clinical Sciences Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, the Islamic Republic of Iran.
| | - Seyed Hassan Saadat
- Nephrology and Urology Research Center, Clinical Sciences Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, the Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Seyedalireza Mirilavasani
- Campus Venlo, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences (FHML), Maastricht University, The Netherlands
| | - Salman Daneshi
- Department of Public Health,School of Health,Jiroft University of Medical Sciences,Jiroft, the Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Amir Reza Aref
- Department of Translational Sciences, Xsphera Biosciences Inc. Boston, MA, USA; Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Noushin Nabavi
- Department of Urologic Sciences and Vancouver Prostate Centre, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6H3Z6 Canada
| | - Rasoul Raesi
- Department of Health Services Management, School of Health, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.; Department of Nursing, Torbat Jam Faculty of Medical Sciences, Torbat Jam, Iran
| | - Afshin Taheriazam
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, the Islamic Republic of Iran; Department of Orthopedics, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, the Islamic Republic of Iran.
| | - Mehrdad Hashemi
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, the Islamic Republic of Iran; Department of Genetics, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, the Islamic Republic of Iran.
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5
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Jiang A, Li J, He Z, Liu Y, Qiao K, Fang Y, Qu L, Luo P, Lin A, Wang L. Renal cancer: signaling pathways and advances in targeted therapies. MedComm (Beijing) 2024; 5:e676. [PMID: 39092291 PMCID: PMC11292401 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2024] [Revised: 07/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Renal cancer is a highlyheterogeneous malignancy characterized by rising global incidence and mortalityrates. The complex interplay and dysregulation of multiple signaling pathways,including von Hippel-Lindau (VHL)/hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF), phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), Hippo-yes-associated protein (YAP), Wnt/ß-catenin, cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)/c-Met, contribute to theinitiation and progression of renal cancer. Although surgical resection is thestandard treatment for localized renal cancer, recurrence and metastasiscontinue to pose significant challenges. Advanced renal cancer is associatedwith a poor prognosis, and current therapies, such as targeted agents andimmunotherapies, have limitations. This review presents a comprehensiveoverview of the molecular mechanisms underlying aberrant signaling pathways inrenal cancer, emphasizing their intricate crosstalk and synergisticinteractions. We discuss recent advancements in targeted therapies, includingtyrosine kinase inhibitors, and immunotherapies, such as checkpoint inhibitors.Moreover, we underscore the importance of multiomics approaches and networkanalysis in elucidating the complex regulatory networks governing renal cancerpathogenesis. By integrating cutting-edge research and clinical insights, this review contributesto the development of innovative diagnostic and therapeutic strategies, whichhave the potential to improve risk stratification, precision medicine, andultimately, patient outcomes in renal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aimin Jiang
- Department of UrologyChanghai HospitalNaval Medical UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Jinxin Li
- Department of UrologyChanghai HospitalNaval Medical UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Ziwei He
- Department of UrologyChanghai HospitalNaval Medical UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Ying Liu
- Department of UrologyChanghai HospitalNaval Medical UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Kun Qiao
- Department of UrologyChanghai HospitalNaval Medical UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Yu Fang
- Department of UrologyChanghai HospitalNaval Medical UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Le Qu
- Department of UrologyJinling HospitalAffiliated Hospital of Medical SchoolNanjing UniversityNanjingChina
| | - Peng Luo
- Department of OncologyZhujiang HospitalSouthern Medical UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongChina
| | - Anqi Lin
- Department of OncologyZhujiang HospitalSouthern Medical UniversityGuangzhouGuangdongChina
| | - Linhui Wang
- Department of UrologyChanghai HospitalNaval Medical UniversityShanghaiChina
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6
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Long L, Fei X, Chen L, Yao L, Lei X. Potential therapeutic targets of the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway in triple-negative breast cancer. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1381251. [PMID: 38699644 PMCID: PMC11063389 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1381251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) poses a significant clinical challenge due to its propensity for metastasis and poor prognosis. TNBC evades the body's immune system recognition and attack through various mechanisms, including the Janus Kinase 2 (JAK2)/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathway. This pathway, characterized by heightened activity in numerous solid tumors, exhibits pronounced activation in specific TNBC subtypes. Consequently, targeting the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway emerges as a promising and precise therapeutic strategy for TNBC. The signal transduction cascade of the JAK2/STAT3 pathway predominantly involves receptor tyrosine kinases, the tyrosine kinase JAK2, and the transcription factor STAT3. Ongoing preclinical studies and clinical research are actively investigating this pathway as a potential therapeutic target for TNBC treatment. This article comprehensively reviews preclinical and clinical investigations into TNBC treatment by targeting the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway using small molecule compounds. The review explores the role of the JAK2/STAT3 pathway in TNBC therapeutics, evaluating the benefits and limitations of active inhibitors and proteolysis-targeting chimeras in TNBC treatment. The aim is to facilitate the development of novel small-molecule compounds that target TNBC effectively. Ultimately, this work seeks to contribute to enhancing therapeutic efficacy for patients with TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Long
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Xiangyu Fei
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Liucui Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
| | - Liang Yao
- Department of Pharmacy, Central Hospital of Hengyang, Hengyang, China
| | - Xiaoyong Lei
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, China
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7
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Wiltshire E, de Moura MC, Piñeyro D, Joshi RS. Cellular and clinical impact of protein phosphatase enzyme epigenetic silencing in multiple cancer tissues. Hum Genomics 2024; 18:24. [PMID: 38475971 DOI: 10.1186/s40246-024-00592-x] [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: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Protein Phosphatase Enzymes (PPE) and protein kinases simultaneously control phosphorylation mechanisms that tightly regulate intracellular signalling pathways and stimulate cellular responses. In human malignancies, PPE and protein kinases are frequently mutated resulting in uncontrolled kinase activity and PPE suppression, leading to cell proliferation, migration and resistance to anti-cancer therapies. Cancer associated DNA hypermethylation at PPE promoters gives rise to transcriptional silencing (epimutations) and is a hallmark of cancer. Despite recent advances in sequencing technologies, data availability and computational capabilities, only a fraction of PPE have been reported as transcriptionally inactive as a consequence of epimutations. METHODS In this study, we examined promoter-associated DNA methylation profiles in Protein Phosphatase Enzymes and their Interacting Proteins (PPEIP) in a cohort of 705 cancer patients in five tissues (Large intestine, Oesophagus, Lung, Pancreas and Stomach) in three cell models (primary tumours, cancer cell lines and 3D embedded cancer cell cultures). As a subset of PPEIP are known tumour suppressor genes, we analysed the impact of PPEIP promoter hypermethylation marks on gene expression, cellular networks and in a clinical setting. RESULTS Here, we report epimutations in PPEIP are a frequent occurrence in the cancer genome and manifest independent of transcriptional activity. We observed that different tumours have varying susceptibility to epimutations and identify specific cellular signalling networks that are primarily affected by epimutations. Additionally, RNA-seq analysis showed the negative impact of epimutations on most (not all) Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase transcription. Finally, we detected novel clinical biomarkers that inform on patient mortality and anti-cancer treatment sensitivity. CONCLUSIONS We propose that DNA hypermethylation marks at PPEIP frequently contribute to the pathogenesis of malignancies and within the precision medicine space, hold promise as biomarkers to inform on clinical features such as patient survival and therapeutic response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward Wiltshire
- Leicester Cancer Research Centre, Department of Genetics and Genome Biology, Robert Kilpatrick Clinical Sciences Building, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester, UK
| | | | - David Piñeyro
- Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute (IJC), Badalona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ricky S Joshi
- Leicester Cancer Research Centre, Department of Genetics and Genome Biology, Robert Kilpatrick Clinical Sciences Building, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester, UK.
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Shaw P, Dwivedi SKD, Bhattacharya R, Mukherjee P, Rao G. VEGF signaling: Role in angiogenesis and beyond. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2024; 1879:189079. [PMID: 38280470 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2024.189079] [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: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 01/29/2024]
Abstract
Angiogenesis is a crucial process for tissue development, repair, and tumor survival. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a key driver secreted by cancer cells, promoting neovascularization. While VEGF's role in angiogenesis is well-documented, its influence on the other aspects in tumor microenvironemt is less discussed. This review elaborates on VEGF's impact on intercellular interactions within the tumor microenvironment, including how VEGF affects pericyte proliferation and migration and mediates interactions between tumor-associated macrophages and cancer cells, resulting in PDL-1-mediated immunosuppression and Nrf2-mediated epithelial-mesenchymal transition. The review discusses VEGF's involvement in intra-organelle crosstalk, tumor metabolism, stemness, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. It also provides insights into current anti-VEGF therapies and their limitations in cancer treatment. Overall, this review aims to provide a thorough overview of the current state of knowledge concerning VEGF signaling and its impact, not only on angiogenesis but also on various other oncogenic processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pallab Shaw
- Peggy and Charles Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA; Department of Pathology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
| | - Shailendra Kumar Dhar Dwivedi
- Peggy and Charles Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
| | - Resham Bhattacharya
- Peggy and Charles Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
| | - Priyabrata Mukherjee
- Peggy and Charles Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA; Department of Pathology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
| | - Geeta Rao
- Peggy and Charles Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA; Department of Pathology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA.
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Yang K, Yi T. Tumor cell stemness in gastrointestinal cancer: regulation and targeted therapy. Front Mol Biosci 2024; 10:1297611. [PMID: 38455361 PMCID: PMC10918437 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1297611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
The cancer stem cells are a rare group of self-renewable cancer cells capable of the initiation, progression, metastasis and recurrence of tumors, and also a key contributor to the therapeutic resistance. Thus, understanding the molecular mechanism of tumor stemness regulation, especially in the gastrointestinal (GI) cancers, is of great importance for targeting CSC and designing novel therapeutic strategies. This review aims to elucidate current advancements in the understanding of CSC regulation, including CSC biomarkers, signaling pathways, and non-coding RNAs. We will also provide a comprehensive view on how the tumor microenvironment (TME) display an overall tumor-promoting effect, including the recruitment and impact of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), the establishment of an immunosuppressive milieu, and the induction of angiogenesis and hypoxia. Lastly, this review consolidates mainstream novel therapeutic interventions targeting CSC stemness regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kangqi Yang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tuo Yi
- Department of General Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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10
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Dahms P, Lyons TR. Toward Characterizing Lymphatic Vasculature in the Mammary Gland During Normal Development and Tumor-Associated Remodeling. J Mammary Gland Biol Neoplasia 2024; 29:1. [PMID: 38218743 PMCID: PMC10787674 DOI: 10.1007/s10911-023-09554-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Lymphatic vasculature has been shown to promote metastatic spread of breast cancer. Lymphatic vasculature, which is made up of larger collecting vessels and smaller capillaries, has specialized cell junctions that facilitate cell intravasation. Normally, these junctions are designed to collect immune cells and other cellular components for immune surveillance by lymph nodes, but they are also utilized by cancer cells to facilitate metastasis. Although lymphatic development overall in the body has been well-characterized, there has been little focus on how the lymphatic network changes in the mammary gland during stages of remodeling such as pregnancy, lactation, and postpartum involution. In this review, we aim to define the currently known lymphangiogenic factors and lymphatic remodeling events during mammary gland morphogenesis. Furthermore, we juxtapose mammary gland pubertal development and postpartum involution to show similarities of pro-lymphangiogenic signaling as well as other molecular signals for epithelial cell survival that are critical in these morphogenic stages. The similar mechanisms include involvement of M2-polarized macrophages that contribute to matrix remodeling and vasculogenesis; signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) survival and proliferation signaling; and cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2)/Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) signaling to promote ductal and lymphatic expansion. Investigation and characterization of lymphangiogenesis in the normal mammary gland can provide insight to targetable mechanisms for lymphangiogenesis and lymphatic spread of tumor cells in breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petra Dahms
- Division of Medical Oncology Senior Scientist, Young Women's Breast Cancer Translational Program, University of Colorado Cancer Center, 12801 E 17th Ave, RC1 South, Mailstop 8117, 80045, Aurora, CO, USA
- Division of Medical Oncology, Anschutz Medical Center, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
- Anschutz Medical Campus Graduate Program in Cancer Biology, University of Colorado, Aurora, USA
| | - Traci R Lyons
- Division of Medical Oncology Senior Scientist, Young Women's Breast Cancer Translational Program, University of Colorado Cancer Center, 12801 E 17th Ave, RC1 South, Mailstop 8117, 80045, Aurora, CO, USA.
- Division of Medical Oncology, Anschutz Medical Center, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA.
- Anschutz Medical Campus Graduate Program in Cancer Biology, University of Colorado, Aurora, USA.
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11
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Tan YQ, Chiou YS, Guo H, Zhang S, Huang X, Dukanya D, Kumar AM, Basappa S, Liu S, Zhu T, Basappa B, Pandey V, Lobie PE. Vertical pathway inhibition of receptor tyrosine kinases and BAD with synergistic efficacy in triple negative breast cancer. NPJ Precis Oncol 2024; 8:8. [PMID: 38200104 PMCID: PMC10781691 DOI: 10.1038/s41698-023-00489-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Aberrant activation of the PI3K/AKT signaling axis along with the sustained phosphorylation of downstream BAD is associated with a poor outcome of TNBC. Herein, the phosphorylated to non-phosphorylated ratio of BAD, an effector of PI3K/AKT promoting cell survival, was observed to be correlated with worse clinicopathologic indicators of outcome, including higher grade, higher proliferative index and lymph node metastasis. The structural optimization of a previously reported inhibitor of BAD-Ser99 phosphorylation was therefore achieved to generate a small molecule inhibiting the phosphorylation of BAD at Ser99 with enhanced potency and improved oral bioavailability. The molecule 2-((4-(2,3-dichlorophenyl)piperazin-1-yl)(pyridin-3-yl)methyl) phenol (NCK) displayed no toxicity at supra-therapeutic doses and was therefore assessed for utility in TNBC. NCK promoted apoptosis and G0/G1 cell cycle arrest of TNBC cell lines in vitro, concordant with gene expression analyses, and reduced in vivo xenograft growth and metastatic burden, demonstrating efficacy as a single agent. Additionally, combinatorial oncology compound library screening demonstrated that NCK synergized with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), specifically OSI-930 or Crizotinib in reducing cell viability and promoting apoptosis of TNBC cells. The synergistic effects of NCK and TKIs were also observed in vivo with complete regression of a percentage of TNBC cell line derived xenografts and prevention of metastatic spread. In patient-derived TNBC xenograft models, NCK prolonged survival times of host animals, and in combination with TKIs generated superior survival outcomes to single agent treatment. Hence, this study provides proof of concept to further develop rational and mechanistic based therapeutic strategies to ameliorate the outcome of TNBC.
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Grants
- This research was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (82172618 to P.E.L. and 82102768 to Y.Q.T.), China; the Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Innovative Oncotherapeutics (ZDSYS20200820165400003 to P.E.L.) (Shenzhen Science and Technology Innovation Commission), China; Shenzhen Development and Reform Commission Subject Construction Project ([2017]1434 to P.E.L.), China; Universities Stable Funding Key Projects (WDZC20200821150704001 to P.E.L.), China; Guangdong Basic and Applied Basic Research Foundation (2020A1515111064 to Y.Q.T.), China; The Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Oncotherapeutics (21310031 to P.E.L.), China; Overseas Research Cooperation Project (HW2020008 to V.P.) (Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School), China; Research Fund, Kaohsiung Medical University (KMU-Q112002 to Y.C.), Taiwan and China Postdoctoral Science Foundation (2022M721894 to X.H.), China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Qin Tan
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical and Health Engineering, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, 518055, People's Republic of China
- Tsinghua Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, 518055, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi-Shiou Chiou
- Tsinghua Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, 518055, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
- Master Degree Program in Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, 807, Taiwan
- Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, 518055, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
- Department of Medical Research, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, 807, Taiwan
| | - Hui Guo
- Tsinghua Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, 518055, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuwei Zhang
- Tsinghua Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, 518055, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoming Huang
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical and Health Engineering, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, 518055, People's Republic of China
- Tsinghua Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, 518055, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
- Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, 518055, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Dukanya Dukanya
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Studies in Organic Chemistry, University of Mysore, Manasagangotri, 570006, Mysore, India
| | - Arun M Kumar
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Studies in Organic Chemistry, University of Mysore, Manasagangotri, 570006, Mysore, India
| | - Shreeja Basappa
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Studies in Organic Chemistry, University of Mysore, Manasagangotri, 570006, Mysore, India
| | - Suling Liu
- Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center & Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, Innovation Center for Cell Signaling Network, Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Tao Zhu
- Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, 518055, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, People's Republic of China
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, People's Republic of China
| | - Basappa Basappa
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Studies in Organic Chemistry, University of Mysore, Manasagangotri, 570006, Mysore, India.
| | - Vijay Pandey
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical and Health Engineering, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, 518055, People's Republic of China.
- Tsinghua Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, 518055, Guangdong, People's Republic of China.
| | - Peter E Lobie
- Institute of Biopharmaceutical and Health Engineering, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, 518055, People's Republic of China.
- Tsinghua Berkeley Shenzhen Institute, Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen, 518055, Guangdong, People's Republic of China.
- Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, 518055, Guangdong, People's Republic of China.
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12
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Isakova AA, Artykov AA, Plotnikova EA, Trunova GV, Khokhlova VА, Pankratov AA, Shuvalova ML, Mazur DV, Antipova NV, Shakhparonov MI, Dolgikh DA, Kirpichnikov MP, Gasparian ME, Yagolovich AV. Dual targeting of DR5 and VEGFR2 molecular pathways by multivalent fusion protein significantly suppresses tumor growth and angiogenesis. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 255:128096. [PMID: 37972835 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.128096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Destroying tumor vasculature is a relevant therapeutic strategy due to its involvement in tumor progression. However, adaptive resistance to approved antiangiogenic drugs targeting VEGF/VEGFR pathway requires the recruitment of additional targets. In this aspect, targeting TRAIL pathway is promising as it is an important component of the immune system involved in tumor immunosurveillance. For dual targeting of malignant cells and tumor vascular microenvironment, we designed a multivalent fusion protein SRH-DR5-B-iRGD with antiangiogenic VEGFR2-specific peptide SRH at the N-terminus and a tumor-targeting and -penetrating peptide iRGD at the C-terminus of receptor-selective TRAIL variant DR5-B. SRH-DR5-B-iRGD obtained high affinity for DR5, VEGFR2 and αvβ3 integrin in nanomolar range. Fusion of DR5-B with effector peptides accelerated DR5 receptor internalization rate upon ligand binding. Antitumor efficacy was evaluated in vitro in human tumor cell lines and primary patient-derived glioblastoma neurospheres, and in vivo in xenograft mouse model of human glioblastoma. Multivalent binding of SRH-DR5-B-iRGD fusion efficiently stimulated DR5-mediated tumor cell death via caspase-dependent mechanism, suppressed xenograft tumor growth by >80 %, doubled the lifespan of xenograft animals, and inhibited tumor vascularization. Therefore, targeting DR5 and VEGFR2 molecular pathways with SRH-DR5-B-iRGD protein may provide a novel therapeutic approach for treatment of solid tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alina A Isakova
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry RAS, 117997 Moscow, Russia; Faculty of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119192 Moscow, Russia
| | - Artem A Artykov
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry RAS, 117997 Moscow, Russia
| | - Ekaterina A Plotnikova
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry RAS, 117997 Moscow, Russia; P.А. Hertsen Moscow Oncology Research Institute - branch of the National Medical Research Radiological Centre of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, 125284 Moscow, Russia
| | - Galina V Trunova
- P.А. Hertsen Moscow Oncology Research Institute - branch of the National Medical Research Radiological Centre of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, 125284 Moscow, Russia
| | - Varvara А Khokhlova
- P.А. Hertsen Moscow Oncology Research Institute - branch of the National Medical Research Radiological Centre of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, 125284 Moscow, Russia
| | - Andrey A Pankratov
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry RAS, 117997 Moscow, Russia; P.А. Hertsen Moscow Oncology Research Institute - branch of the National Medical Research Radiological Centre of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, 125284 Moscow, Russia
| | - Margarita L Shuvalova
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry RAS, 117997 Moscow, Russia; Laboratory of Synthetic Neurotechnologies, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, 117997 Moscow, Russia
| | - Diana V Mazur
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry RAS, 117997 Moscow, Russia; Faculty of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119192 Moscow, Russia
| | - Nadezhda V Antipova
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry RAS, 117997 Moscow, Russia
| | | | - Dmitry A Dolgikh
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry RAS, 117997 Moscow, Russia; Faculty of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119192 Moscow, Russia
| | - Mikhail P Kirpichnikov
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry RAS, 117997 Moscow, Russia; Faculty of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119192 Moscow, Russia
| | - Marine E Gasparian
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry RAS, 117997 Moscow, Russia; Manebio LLC, 115280 Moscow, Russia.
| | - Anne V Yagolovich
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry RAS, 117997 Moscow, Russia; Faculty of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119192 Moscow, Russia; Manebio LLC, 115280 Moscow, Russia.
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13
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Melo ML, Fonseca R, Pauli F, Zavan B, Hanemann JAC, Miyazawa M, Caixeta ES, Nacif JLM, Aissa AF, Barreiro EJ, Ionta M. N-acylhydrazone derivative modulates cell cycle regulators promoting mitosis arrest and apoptosis in estrogen positive MCF-7 breast cancer cells. Toxicol In Vitro 2023; 93:105686. [PMID: 37652252 DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2023.105686] [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: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer death among women worldwide. About 75% of all diagnosed cases are hormone-positive, which are treated with hormone therapy. However, many patients are refractory or become resistant to the drugs used in therapeutic protocols. In this scenario, it is essential to identify new substances with pharmacological potential against breast cancer. VEGFR2 inhibitors are considered promising antitumor agents not only due to their antiangiogenic activity but also by inhibiting the proliferation of tumor cells. Thus, the present study aimed to evaluate the effects of N-acylhydrazone derivative LASSBio-2029 on the proliferative behavior of MCF-7 cells. We observed a promising antitumor potential of this substance due to its ability to modulate critical cell cycle regulators including mitotic kinases (CDK1, AURKA, AURKB, and PLK1) and CDK inhibitor (CDKN1A). Increased frequencies of abnormal mitosis and apoptotic cells were observed in response to treatment. A molecular docking analysis predicts that LASSBio-2029 could bind to the proto-oncoprotein ABL1, which participates in cell cycle control, interacting with other controller proteins and regulating centrosome-associated tubulins. Finally, we created a gene signature with the downregulated genes, whose reduced expression is associated with a higher relapse-free survival probability in breast cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Lúcia Melo
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Alfenas, MG 37130-001, Brazil
| | - Rafael Fonseca
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Alfenas, MG 37130-001, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Pauli
- Institute of Chemistry, Fluminense Federal University, Niterói, RJ 24020-140, Brazil
| | - Bruno Zavan
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Alfenas, MG 37130-001, Brazil
| | - João Adolfo Costa Hanemann
- Department of Clinic and Surgery, School of Dentistry. Federal University of Alfenas, 37130-001, MG, Brazil
| | - Marta Miyazawa
- Department of Clinic and Surgery, School of Dentistry. Federal University of Alfenas, 37130-001, MG, Brazil
| | | | | | - Alexandre Ferro Aissa
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Alfenas, MG 37130-001, Brazil.
| | - Eliezer J Barreiro
- Laboratory of Evaluation and Synthesis of Bioactive Substances (LASSBio), Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, CCS, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
| | - Marisa Ionta
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Alfenas, MG 37130-001, Brazil.
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14
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Ghanem A, Ali MA, Elkady MA, Abdel Mageed SS, El Hassab MA, El-Ashrey MK, Mohammed OA, Doghish AS. Rumex vesicarius L. boosts the effectiveness of sorafenib in triple-negative breast cancer by downregulating BCl2, mTOR, and JNK, and upregulating p21 expression. Pathol Res Pract 2023; 250:154807. [PMID: 37696244 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.154807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIM Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is characterized by poor prognosis, rapid progression, serious clinical behavior, an elevated risk of metastasis, and resistance to standard treatments. Traditional medicine practitioners value Rumex vesicarius L. (RMV) for a variety of reasons, including the plant's antioxidant capabilities. Our study's goals were to ascertain the efficacy of RMV alone and in combination with sorafenib (SOR) against the aggressive TNBC cell line (MDA-MB-231) and use in vitro and in silico analysis to deduce the fundamental mechanism of action. METHODS In the current study, molecular operating environment (MOE, 2019.0102) software was used for performing molecular docking. The MTT (3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5 diphenyl tetrazolium bromide) assay was used to determine the cytotoxicity of RMV, SOR or RMV/SOR combination against the TNBC cell line MDA-MB-231 cells. The effects of RMV, SOR, and RMV and SOR combining on mRNAs expressions of the target genes including mTOR, p21, JNK, and BCl2 were evaluated. In TNBC cells, the relative expressions of mRNAs of the genes were examined by using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). RESULTS In our experiments, we discovered that both RMV extracts alone and in combination with SOR considerably reduced cancer cell proliferation (IC50 = 0.83 and 0.19 μM, respectively). Additionally, the expression of the tumor suppressor gene p21 was elevated whereas the expression of the invasion and anti-apoptosis genes BCl2, mTOR, and JNK were significantly decreased after treatment with RMV and SOR. Based on in silico analysis, it was found that RMV extract contains bioactive chemicals with a high affinity for inhibiting JNK and VEGFR-2. CONCLUSION In conclusion, in vitro and in silico investigations show that the RMV extract improves the anticancer efficiency of SOR through molecular processes involving the downregulation of mTOR, BCl2, and JNK1 and overexpression of p21 tumor suppressor gene. Finally, we suggest conducting additional in vivo investigations on RMV and its bioactive components to verify their potential in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aml Ghanem
- School of Biotechnology, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt
| | - Mohamed A Ali
- School of Biotechnology, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt
| | - Mohamed A Elkady
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Nasr City, Cairo 11231, Egypt.
| | - Sherif S Abdel Mageed
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt
| | - Mahmoud A El Hassab
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Salman International University (KSIU), SouthSinai, Ras Sudr 46612, Egypt
| | - Mohamed K El-Ashrey
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Salman International University (KSIU), SouthSinai, Ras Sudr 46612, Egypt; Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Egypt
| | - Osama A Mohammed
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Bisha, Bisha 61922, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed S Doghish
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), Badr City, Cairo 11829, Egypt; Faculty of Pharmacy (Boys), Al-Azhar University, Nasr City, Cairo 11231, Egypt.
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15
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Javvaji PK, Francis JR, Dhali A, Kolte AP, Mech A, Roy SC, Mishra A. Interleukin-6 stimulates in vitro development of late-stage ovine embryos. J Reprod Immunol 2023; 159:104133. [PMID: 37647796 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2023.104133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
The effect of interleukin-6 (IL-6) supplementation during the different phases of in vitro embryo culturing (IVC) on embryo development and embryonic gene expression was studied in ovine. IL-6 was added to IVC medium during the late phases (72-192 h; 5, 10, and 25 ng/ml IL-6) or entire period (0-192 h; 10 ng/ml IL-6) of IVC to determine its effect on embryo development. Further, the effect of IL-6 (10 ng/ml) supplementation at the 72 h of IVC on gene expressions associated with JAK/STAT signalling and pluripotency in 8-16 cell embryos (1 h post-supplementation) and compact morulae (48 h post-supplementation), and apoptosis and primitive endoderm (PrE) development in compact morulae was investigated. The supplementation of 10 ng/ml IL-6 during the late phases of IVC significantly (P < 0.05) increased blastocyst formation (35.2 ± 1.52%) compared to the control (21.1 ± 1.11%), and 5 ng/ml (25.9 ± 2.98%) or 25 ng/ml (16.5 ± 0.73%) IL-6 groups. Conversely, IL-6 (10 ng/ml) treatment throughout the IVC period significantly (P < 0.05) decreased the rate of cleavage (55.4 ± 1.57%) and blastocyst formation (14.5 ± 1.28%) compared to the control group (65.8 ± 1.35% and 21.5 ± 0.97%, respectively). In 8-16 cell embryos and compact morulae, the IL-6 treatment significantly (P < 0.05) affected the expression of genes associated with JAK/STAT signalling and pluripotency. Further, the treatment significantly (P < 0.05) downregulated BAX and CASP3, and upregulated GATA6 expression in compact morulae. In conclusion, IL-6 supplementation affected the in vitro development of ovine embryos in a dose- and time-dependent manner. The beneficial effect of IL-6 on the development of late-stage embryos was mediated through the changes in gene expressions associated with JAK/STAT signalling, pluripotency, apoptosis and PrE development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pradeep Krishna Javvaji
- ICAR-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Adugodi, Hosur Road, Bengaluru 560 030, India
| | - Joseph Rabinson Francis
- ICAR-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Adugodi, Hosur Road, Bengaluru 560 030, India
| | - Arindam Dhali
- ICAR-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Adugodi, Hosur Road, Bengaluru 560 030, India.
| | - Atul P Kolte
- ICAR-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Adugodi, Hosur Road, Bengaluru 560 030, India
| | - Anjumoni Mech
- ICAR-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Adugodi, Hosur Road, Bengaluru 560 030, India
| | - Sudhir C Roy
- ICAR-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Adugodi, Hosur Road, Bengaluru 560 030, India
| | - Ashish Mishra
- ICAR-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Adugodi, Hosur Road, Bengaluru 560 030, India
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16
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Ge MX, Niu WX, Bao YY, Lu ZN, He HW. Sclareol attenuates liver fibrosis through SENP1-mediated VEGFR2 SUMOylation and inhibition of downstream STAT3 signaling. Phytother Res 2023; 37:3898-3912. [PMID: 37132081 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Liver fibrosis is a key global health care burden. Sclareol, isolated from Salvia sclarea, possesses various biological activities. Its effect on liver fibrosis remains unknown. This study was proposed to evaluate the antifibrotic activity of sclareol (SCL) and explore its underlying mechanisms. Stimulated hepatic stellate cells served as an in vitro liver fibrosis model. The expression of fibrotic markers was assessed by western blot and real-time PCR. Two classical animal models, bile duct-ligated rats and carbon tetrachloride-treated mice, were utilized for the in vivo experiments. The liver function and fibrosis degree were determined by serum biochemical and histopathological analyses. VEGFR2 SUMOylation was analyzed using coimmunoprecipitation assay. Our results indicated that SCL treatment restricted the profibrotic propensity of activated HSCs. In fibrotic rodents, SCL administration alleviated hepatic injury and reduced collagen accumulation. Mechanistic studies indicated that SCL downregulated the protein level of SENP1 and enhanced VEGFR2 SUMOylation in LX-2 cells, which affected its intracellular trafficking. Blockade of the interaction between VEGFR2 and STAT3 was observed, resulting in the suppression of downstream STAT3 phosphorylation. Our findings demonstrated that SCL has therapeutic efficacy against liver fibrosis through mediating VEGFR2 SUMOylation, suggesting that SCL may be a potential candidate compound for its treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mao-Xu Ge
- Department of Pharmacy, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Wei-Xiao Niu
- Medical Department, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Yun-Yang Bao
- Key Laboratory of Biotechnology of Antibiotics, the National Health and Family Planning Commission (NHFPC), Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Zhen-Ning Lu
- Department of Pharmacy, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Hong-Wei He
- Key Laboratory of Biotechnology of Antibiotics, the National Health and Family Planning Commission (NHFPC), Institute of Medicinal Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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17
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Abd GM, Laird MC, Ku JC, Li Y. Hypoxia-induced cancer cell reprogramming: a review on how cancer stem cells arise. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1227884. [PMID: 37614497 PMCID: PMC10442830 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1227884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells are a subset of cells within the tumor that possess the ability to self-renew as well as differentiate into different cancer cell lineages. The exact mechanisms by which cancer stem cells arise is still not completely understood. However, current research suggests that cancer stem cells may originate from normal stem cells that have undergone genetic mutations or epigenetic changes. A more recent discovery is the dedifferentiation of cancer cells to stem-like cells. These stem-like cells have been found to express and even upregulate induced pluripotent stem cell markers known as Yamanaka factors. Here we discuss developments in how cancer stem cells arise and consider how environmental factors, such as hypoxia, plays a key role in promoting the progression of cancer stem cells and metastasis. Understanding the mechanisms that give rise to these cells could have important implications for the development of new strategies in cancer treatments and therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Genevieve M. Abd
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Biomedical. Engineering, Western Michigan University Homer Stryker MD School of Medicine, Kalamazoo, MI, United States
| | - Madison C. Laird
- Medical Students, Western Michigan University Homer Stryker MD School of Medicine, Kalamazoo, MI, United States
| | - Jennifer C. Ku
- Medical Students, Western Michigan University Homer Stryker MD School of Medicine, Kalamazoo, MI, United States
| | - Yong Li
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Biomedical. Engineering, Western Michigan University Homer Stryker MD School of Medicine, Kalamazoo, MI, United States
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18
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Davies A, Zoubeidi A, Beltran H, Selth LA. The Transcriptional and Epigenetic Landscape of Cancer Cell Lineage Plasticity. Cancer Discov 2023; 13:1771-1788. [PMID: 37470668 PMCID: PMC10527883 DOI: 10.1158/2159-8290.cd-23-0225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
Lineage plasticity, a process whereby cells change their phenotype to take on a different molecular and/or histologic identity, is a key driver of cancer progression and therapy resistance. Although underlying genetic changes within the tumor can enhance lineage plasticity, it is predominantly a dynamic process controlled by transcriptional and epigenetic dysregulation. This review explores the transcriptional and epigenetic regulators of lineage plasticity and their interplay with other features of malignancy, such as dysregulated metabolism, the tumor microenvironment, and immune evasion. We also discuss strategies for the detection and treatment of highly plastic tumors. SIGNIFICANCE Lineage plasticity is a hallmark of cancer and a critical facilitator of other oncogenic features such as metastasis, therapy resistance, dysregulated metabolism, and immune evasion. It is essential that the molecular mechanisms of lineage plasticity are elucidated to enable the development of strategies to effectively target this phenomenon. In this review, we describe key transcriptional and epigenetic regulators of cancer cell plasticity, in the process highlighting therapeutic approaches that may be harnessed for patient benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alastair Davies
- Oncology Research Discovery, Pfizer Worldwide Research and Development, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Amina Zoubeidi
- Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Himisha Beltran
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Luke A. Selth
- Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute and Freemasons Centre for Male Health and Wellbeing, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia, 5042 Australia
- Adelaide Medical School, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, 5005 Australia
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19
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Kar S, Niharika, Roy A, Patra SK. Overexpression of SOX2 Gene by Histone Modifications: SOX2 Enhances Human Prostate and Breast Cancer Progression by Prevention of Apoptosis and Enhancing Cell Proliferation. Oncology 2023; 101:591-608. [PMID: 37549026 DOI: 10.1159/000531195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION SOX2 plays a crucial role in tumor development, cancer stem cell maintenance, and cancer progression. Mechanisms of SOX2 gene regulation in human breast and prostate cancers are not established yet. METHODS SOX2 expression in prostate and breast cancer tissues and cell lines was determined by qRT-PCR, Western blot, and immunochemistry, followed by the investigation of pro-tumorigenic properties like cell proliferation, migration, and apoptosis by gene knockdown and treatment with epigenetic modulators and ChIP. RESULTS Prostate and breast cancer tissues showed very high expression of SOX2. All cancer cell lines DU145 and PC3 (prostate) and MCF7 and MDA-MB-231 (breast) exhibited high expression of SOX2. Inhibition of SOX2 drastically decreased cell proliferation and migration. Epigenetic modulators enhanced SOX2 gene expression in both cancer types. DNA methylation pattern in SOX2 promoter could not be appreciably counted for SOX2 overexpression. Activation of SOX2 gene promoter was due to very high deposition of H3K4me3 and H3K9acS10p and drastic decrease of H3K9me3 and H3K27me3. CONCLUSION Histone modification is crucial for the overexpression of SOX2 during tumor development and cancer progression. These findings show the avenue of co-targeting SOX2 and its active epigenetic modifier enzymes to effectively treat aggressive prostate and breast cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swayamsiddha Kar
- Epigenetics and Cancer Research Laboratory, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, India
| | - Niharika
- Epigenetics and Cancer Research Laboratory, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, India
| | - Ankan Roy
- Epigenetics and Cancer Research Laboratory, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, India
| | - Samir Kumar Patra
- Epigenetics and Cancer Research Laboratory, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, India
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Onda M, Ota A, Ito K, Ono T, Karnan S, Kato M, Kondo S, Furuhashi A, Hayashi T, Hosokawa Y, Kazaoka Y. Inhibition of VEGFR2 and EGFR signaling cooperatively suppresses the proliferation of oral squamous cell carcinoma. Cancer Med 2023; 12:16416-16430. [PMID: 37341071 PMCID: PMC10469792 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.6282] [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: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is frequently overexpressed in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), and EGFR-targeting therapeutics have been widely employed to treat patients with a variety of carcinomas including OSCC. Here, we aimed to investigate alternative signaling for OSCC survival under the disruption of EGFR signaling. METHODS OSCC cell lines, namely HSC-3 and SAS, were utilized to investigate how EGFR disruption affects cell proliferation. Gene set enrichment analysis was performed to examine how EGFR disruption affects oncogenic signaling in OSCC cells. Disruption of KDR gene was performed using CRISPR/Cas9 techniques. A VEGFR inhibitor, vatalanib was used to research the impact of VEGFR inhibition on OSCC survival. RESULTS EGFR disruption significantly decreased the proliferation and oncogenic signaling including Myc and PI3K-Akt, in OSCC cells. Chemical library screening assays revealed that VEGFR inhibitors continued to inhibit the proliferation of EGFR-deficient OSCC cells. In addition, CRISPR-mediated disruption of KDR/VEGFR2 retarded OSCC cell proliferation. Furthermore, combined erlotinib-vatalanib treatment exhibited a more potent anti-proliferative effect on OSCC cells, compared to either monotherapy. The combined therapy effectively suppressed the phosphorylation levels of Akt but not p44/42. CONCLUSION VEGFR-mediated signaling would be an alternative signaling pathway for the survival of OSCC cells under the disruption of EGFR signaling. These results highlight the clinical application of VEGFR inhibitors in the development of multi-molecular-targeted therapeutics against OSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maho Onda
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial SurgeryAichi Medical University HospitalNagakuteJapan
| | - Akinobu Ota
- Department of BiochemistryAichi Medical University School of MedicineNagakuteJapan
- Department of Food and Nutritional EnvironmentCollege of Human Life and EnvironmentKinjo Gakuin UniversityNagoyaJapan
| | - Kunihiro Ito
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial SurgeryAichi Medical University HospitalNagakuteJapan
| | - Takayuki Ono
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial SurgeryAichi Medical University HospitalNagakuteJapan
| | - Sivasundaram Karnan
- Department of BiochemistryAichi Medical University School of MedicineNagakuteJapan
| | - Mikako Kato
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial SurgeryAichi Medical University HospitalNagakuteJapan
| | - Sayuri Kondo
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial SurgeryAichi Medical University HospitalNagakuteJapan
| | - Akifumi Furuhashi
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial SurgeryAichi Medical University HospitalNagakuteJapan
| | - Tomio Hayashi
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial SurgeryAichi Medical University HospitalNagakuteJapan
| | - Yoshitaka Hosokawa
- Department of BiochemistryAichi Medical University School of MedicineNagakuteJapan
| | - Yoshiaki Kazaoka
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial SurgeryAichi Medical University HospitalNagakuteJapan
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21
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Lv S, Liu Y, Xie C, Xue C, Du S, Yao J. Emerging role of interactions between tumor angiogenesis and cancer stem cells. J Control Release 2023; 360:468-481. [PMID: 37391031 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2023.06.036] [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: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
Tumor angiogenesis and cancer stem cells (CSCs) are two major hallmarks of solid tumors. They have long received attention for their critical roles in tumor progression, metastasis and recurrence. Meanwhile, plenty of evidence indicates the close association between CSCs and tumor vasculature. CSCs are proven to promote tumor angiogenesis, and the highly vascularized tumor microenvironment further maintains CSCs growth in return, thereby forming a hard-breaking vicious circle to promote tumor development. Hence, though monotherapy targeting tumor vasculature or CSCs has been extensively studied over the past decades, the poor prognosis has been limiting the clinical application. This review summarizes the crosstalk between tumor vasculature and CSCs with emphasis on small-molecule compounds and the associated biological signaling pathways. We also highlight the importance of linking tumor vessels to CSCs to disrupt the CSCs-angiogenesis vicious circle. More precise treatment regimens targeting tumor vasculature and CSCs are expected to benefit future tumor treatment development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Lv
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals, Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yufei Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals, Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Changheng Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals, Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Chenyang Xue
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals, Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Shi Du
- Division of Pharmaceutics & Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
| | - Jing Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Druggability of Biopharmaceuticals, Department of Pharmaceutics, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjiaxiang, Nanjing 210009, China.
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22
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Borlongan MC, Wang H. Profiling and targeting cancer stem cell signaling pathways for cancer therapeutics. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1125174. [PMID: 37305676 PMCID: PMC10247984 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1125174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumorigenic cancer stem cells (CSCs) represent a subpopulation of cells within the tumor that express genetic and phenotypic profiles and signaling pathways distinct from the other tumor cells. CSCs have eluded many conventional anti-oncogenic treatments, resulting in metastases and relapses of cancers. Effectively targeting CSCs' unique self-renewal and differentiation properties would be a breakthrough in cancer therapy. A better characterization of the CSCs' unique signaling mechanisms will improve our understanding of the pathology and treatment of cancer. In this paper, we will discuss CSC origin, followed by an in-depth review of CSC-associated signaling pathways. Particular emphasis is given on CSC signaling pathways' ligand-receptor engagement, upstream and downstream mechanisms, and associated genes, and molecules. Signaling pathways associated with regulation of CSC development stand as potential targets of CSC therapy, which include Wnt, TGFβ (transforming growth factor-β)/SMAD, Notch, JAK-STAT (Janus kinase-signal transducers and activators of transcription), Hedgehog (Hh), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Lastly, we will also discuss milestone discoveries in CSC-based therapies, including pre-clinical and clinical studies featuring novel CSC signaling pathway cancer therapeutics. This review aims at generating innovative views on CSCs toward a better understanding of cancer pathology and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mia C. Borlongan
- Master Program of Pharmaceutical Science College of Graduate Studies, Elk Grove, CA, United States
| | - Hongbin Wang
- Master Program of Pharmaceutical Science College of Graduate Studies, Elk Grove, CA, United States
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences College of Pharmacy, Elk Grove, CA, United States
- Department of Basic Science College of Medicine, California Northstate University, Elk Grove, CA, United States
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23
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Valle-Mendiola A, Gutiérrez-Hoya A, Soto-Cruz I. JAK/STAT Signaling and Cervical Cancer: From the Cell Surface to the Nucleus. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1141. [PMID: 37372319 DOI: 10.3390/genes14061141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Revised: 05/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) signaling pathway constitutes a rapid signaling module from the cell surface to the nucleus, and activates different cellular responses, such as proliferation, survival, migration, invasion, and inflammation. When the JAK/STAT pathway is altered, it contributes to cancer progression and metastasis. STAT proteins play a central role in developing cervical cancer, and inhibiting the JAK/STAT signaling may be necessary to induce tumor cell death. Several cancers show continuous activation of different STATs, including cervical cancer. The constitutive activation of STAT proteins is associated with a poor prognosis and overall survival. The human papillomavirus (HPV) oncoproteins E6 and E7 play an essential role in cervical cancer progression, and they activate the JAK/STAT pathway and other signals that induce proliferation, survival, and migration of cancer cells. Moreover, there is a crosstalk between the JAK/STAT signaling cascade with other signaling pathways, where a plethora of different proteins activate to induce gene transcription and cell responses that contribute to tumor growth. Therefore, inhibition of the JAK/STAT pathway shows promise as a new target in cancer treatment. In this review, we discuss the role of the JAK/STAT pathway components and the role of the HPV oncoproteins associated with cellular malignancy through the JAK/STAT proteins and other signaling pathways to induce tumor growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arturo Valle-Mendiola
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Cell Differentiation and Cancer Research Unit, FES Zaragoza, National University of Mexico, Batalla 5 de Mayo s/n, Colonia Ejército de Oriente, Mexico City 09230, Mexico
| | - Adriana Gutiérrez-Hoya
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Cell Differentiation and Cancer Research Unit, FES Zaragoza, National University of Mexico, Batalla 5 de Mayo s/n, Colonia Ejército de Oriente, Mexico City 09230, Mexico
- Cátedra CONACYT, FES Zaragoza, National University of Mexico, Mexico City 09230, Mexico
| | - Isabel Soto-Cruz
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Cell Differentiation and Cancer Research Unit, FES Zaragoza, National University of Mexico, Batalla 5 de Mayo s/n, Colonia Ejército de Oriente, Mexico City 09230, Mexico
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24
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Moradi-Gharibvand N, Hashemibeni B. The Effect of Stem Cells and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor on Cancer Angiogenesis. Adv Biomed Res 2023; 12:124. [PMID: 37434939 PMCID: PMC10331557 DOI: 10.4103/abr.abr_378_21] [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: 12/02/2021] [Revised: 04/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/24/2022] [Indexed: 07/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The formation of new vessels from pre-existing vessels is known as angiogenesis. The process is controlled by stimuli and inhibitors. Angiogenesis starts as a result of the unbalance of these factors, where balance has a tendency toward the stimulus. One of the most important factors promoting angiogenesis is the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). In addition to being involved in vascular regeneration in normal tissues, VEGF also takes part in tumor tissue angiogenesis. These factors affect endothelial cells (ECs) directly as well as differentiate tumor cells from endothelial cells and play an active role in tumor tissue angiogenesis. Angiogenesis partakes in the growth and proliferation of tumor tissue. Because anti-angiogenic treatment is favorable in existing cancer therapies, the potential benefits should be considered. One of these new therapies is cell therapy using mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Research on MSCs remains controversial because much of the earlier research on MSCs has shown their effectiveness, but more recent research has identified harmful effects of these cells. This article reviews the role of stem cells and their secretions in the angiogenesis of tumor tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nahid Moradi-Gharibvand
- Abadan University of Medical Sciences, Abadan, Iran
- Department of Anatomical Sciences and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Batool Hashemibeni
- Department of Anatomical Sciences and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
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25
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Tamayo SO, Cupitra NI, Narvaez-Sanchez R. Vascular adaptation to cancer beyond angiogenesis: The role of PTEN. Microvasc Res 2023; 147:104492. [PMID: 36709859 DOI: 10.1016/j.mvr.2023.104492] [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: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Cancer is a public health problem, and it needs blood vessels to grow. Knowing more about the processes of vascular adaptation to cancer improves our chances of attacking it, since the tumor for its extension needs such adaptation to satisfy its progressive demand for nutrients. The main objective of this review is to present the reader with some fundamental molecular pathways for vascular adaptation to cancer, highlighting within them the regulatory role of homologous tensin and phosphatase protein (PTEN). Hence the review describes vascular adaptation to cancer through somewhat known processes, such as angiogenesis, but emphasizes others that are much less explored, namely the changes in vascular reactivity and remodeling of the vascular wall -intima-media thickness and adjustments in the extracellular matrix- The role of PTEN in physiological and pathological vascular mechanisms in different types of cancer is deepened, as a crucial mediator in vascular adaptation to cancer, and points pending further exploration in cancer vascularization are suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Ortiz Tamayo
- Physiology and Biochemistry Research Group, PHYSIS, Faculty of Medicine, University of Antioquia, Medellin, Colombia
| | - Nelson Ivan Cupitra
- Physiology and Biochemistry Research Group, PHYSIS, Faculty of Medicine, University of Antioquia, Medellin, Colombia
| | - Raul Narvaez-Sanchez
- Physiology and Biochemistry Research Group, PHYSIS, Faculty of Medicine, University of Antioquia, Medellin, Colombia.
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26
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Wang W, Wang M, Du T, Hou Z, You S, Zhang S, Ji M, Xue N, Chen X. SHMT2 Promotes Gastric Cancer Development through Regulation of HIF1α/VEGF/STAT3 Signaling. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24087150. [PMID: 37108312 PMCID: PMC10138966 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The metabolic enzymes involved in one-carbon metabolism are closely associated with tumor progression and could be potential targets for cancer therapy. Recent studies showed that serine hydroxymethyltransferase 2 (SHMT2), a crucial enzyme in the one-carbon metabolic pathway, plays a key role in tumor proliferation and development. However, the precise role and function of SHMT2 in gastric cancer (GC) remain poorly understood. In this study, we presented evidence that SHMT2 was necessary for hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF1α) stability and contributed to GC cells' hypoxic adaptation. The analysis of datasets retrieved from The Cancer Genome Atlas and the experimentation with human cell lines revealed a marked increase in SHMT2 expression in GC. The SHMT2 knockdown in MGC803, SGC7901, and HGC27 cell lines inhibited cell proliferation, colony formation, invasion, and migration. Notably, SHMT2 depletion disrupted redox homeostasis and caused glycolytic function loss in GC cells under hypoxic circumstances. Mechanistically, we discovered SHMT2 modulated HIF1α stability, which acted as a master regulator of hypoxia-inducible genes under hypoxic conditions. This, in turn, regulated the downstream VEGF and STAT3 pathways. The in vivo xenograft experiments showed that SHMT2 knockdown markedly reduced GC growth. Our results elucidate the novel function of SHMT2 in stabilizing HIF1α under hypoxic conditions, thus providing a potential therapeutic strategy for GC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weida Wang
- Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Mingjin Wang
- Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Tingting Du
- Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Zhenyan Hou
- Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Shen You
- Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Sen Zhang
- Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Ming Ji
- Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Nina Xue
- Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Xiaoguang Chen
- Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100050, China
- State Key Laboratory of Bioactive Substance and Function of Natural Medicines, Beijing 100050, China
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27
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Entezari M, Taheriazam A, Paskeh MDA, Sabouni E, Zandieh MA, Aboutalebi M, Kakavand A, Rezaei S, Hejazi ES, Saebfar H, Salimimoghadam S, Mirzaei S, Hashemi M, Samarghandian S. The pharmacological and biological importance of EZH2 signaling in lung cancer. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 160:114313. [PMID: 36738498 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Up to 18% of cancer-related deaths worldwide are attributed to lung tumor and global burden of this type of cancer is ascending. Different factors are responsible for development of lung cancer such as smoking, environmental factors and genetic mutations. EZH2 is a vital protein with catalytic activity and belongs to PCR2 family. EZH2 has been implicated in regulating gene expression by binding to promoter of targets. The importance of EZH2 in lung cancer is discussed in current manuscript. Activation of EZH2 significantly elevates the proliferation rate of lung cancer. Furthermore, metastasis and associated molecular mechanisms including EMT undergo activation by EZH2 in enhancing the lung cancer progression. The response of lung cancer to therapy can be significantly diminished due to EZH2 upregulation. Since EZH2 increases tumor progression, anti-cancer agents suppressing its expression reduce malignancy. In spite of significant effort in understanding modulatory function of EZH2 on other pathways, it appears that EZH2 can be also regulated and controlled by other factors that are described in current review. Therefore, translating current findings to clinic can improve treatment and management of lung cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maliheh Entezari
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Department of Genetics, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Afshin Taheriazam
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Department of Orthopedics, Faculty of medicine, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahshid Deldar Abad Paskeh
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Department of Genetics, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Eisa Sabouni
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Arad Zandieh
- Department of Food Hygiene and Quality Control, Division of Epidemiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Aboutalebi
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amirabbas Kakavand
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shamin Rezaei
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Elahe Sadat Hejazi
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamidreza Saebfar
- European University Association, League of European Research Universities, university of milan, Italy
| | - Shokooh Salimimoghadam
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Sepideh Mirzaei
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mehrdad Hashemi
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Department of Genetics, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Saeed Samarghandian
- Healthy Ageing Research Centre, Neyshabur University of Medical Sciences, Neyshabur, Iran.
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28
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Gao FY, Li XT, Xu K, Wang RT, Guan XX. c-MYC mediates the crosstalk between breast cancer cells and tumor microenvironment. Cell Commun Signal 2023; 21:28. [PMID: 36721232 PMCID: PMC9887805 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01043-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The MYC oncogenic family is dysregulated in diverse tumors which is generally linked to the poor prognosis of tumors. The members in MYC family are transcription factors which are responsible for the regulation of various genes expression. Among them, c-MYC is closely related to the progression of tumors. Furthermore, c-MYC aberrations is tightly associated with the prevalence of breast cancer. Tumor microenvironment (TME) is composed of many different types of cellular and non-cellular factors, mainly including cancer-associated fibroblasts, tumor-associated macrophages, vascular endothelial cells, myeloid-derived suppressor cells and immune cells, all of which can affect the diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutic efficacy of breast cancer. Importantly, the biological processes occurred in TME, such as angiogenesis, immune evasion, invasion, migration, and the recruition of stromal and tumor-infiltrating cells are under the modulation of c-MYC. These findings indicated that c-MYC serves as a critical regulator of TME. Here, we aimed to summarize and review the relevant research, thus to clarify c-MYC is a key mediator between breast cancer cells and TME. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang-yan Gao
- grid.412676.00000 0004 1799 0784Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029 China
| | - Xin-tong Li
- grid.412676.00000 0004 1799 0784Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029 China
| | - Kun Xu
- grid.412676.00000 0004 1799 0784Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029 China
| | - Run-tian Wang
- grid.412676.00000 0004 1799 0784Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029 China
| | - Xiao-xiang Guan
- grid.412676.00000 0004 1799 0784Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029 China
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Sinha S, Das S, Saha B, Paul D, Basu B. Anti-microbial, anti-oxidant, and anti-breast cancer properties unraveled in yeast carotenoids produced via cost-effective fermentation technique utilizing waste hydrolysate. Front Microbiol 2023; 13:1088477. [PMID: 36741891 PMCID: PMC9889640 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.1088477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Natural carotenoids are well known for their anti-oxidant property and also shown to have antimicrobial and anticancer efficacy. Production of carotenoids from microbial resources mainly from yeast has attracted commercial interest. Breast cancer has the highest incidence among women, and therapy resistance and lack of effective therapeutic strategies are major treatment bottlenecks, particularly for triple-negative subtypes. Yeast carotenoids are recently being evaluated for affordable, non-toxic, natural product-based therapies. In the present study, we have shown an environment-friendly and inexpensive method for carotenoid production from yeasts, utilizing "mandi" wastes, and investigated the biomedical properties of carotenoids, particularly antineoplastic properties. Methods Vegetable "mandi" waste was used to prepare waste hydrolysate, a culture medium, in which oleaginous red yeast Rhodosporidium sp. was grown. Carotenoid pigments were extracted using the solvent extraction method and analyzed by UV spectroscopy, thin-layer chromatography (TLC), and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticancer activities of the extract were evaluated, followed by in silico docking and absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion/toxicity (ADME/T) studies. Results Carotenoid extract was found to be composed of three main pigments-β-carotene, torulene, and torularhodin. Extract exhibited significant antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-breast cancer activities in vitro while being biocompatible. Interestingly, carotenoids have shown better efficacy in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells than ER+PR+ cells. In silico evaluation predicted binding with breast cancer-specific molecular targets, specifically the three components showed good binding energy toward VEGF receptors and good drug likeliness properties, as well as less toxicity. Discussion This is the first report on anti-breast cancer activities, particularly targeting TNBC cells by red yeast carotenoids (β-carotene, torulene, and torularhodin) produced via a sustainable environment-friendly bioprocess utilizing waste hydrolysate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sweta Sinha
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University, Noida, India
| | - Souvik Das
- Department of Neuroendocrinology and Experimental Hematology, Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
| | - Biswajit Saha
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University, Noida, India
| | - Debarati Paul
- Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University, Noida, India,*Correspondence: Debarati Paul,
| | - Biswarup Basu
- Department of Neuroendocrinology and Experimental Hematology, Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute, Kolkata, West Bengal, India,Biswarup Basu, ,
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30
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Fan L, Wang X, Cheng C, Wang S, Li X, Cui J, Zhang B, Shi L. Inhibitory Effect and Mechanism of Ursolic Acid on Cisplatin-Induced Resistance and Stemness in Human Lung Cancer A549 Cells. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2023; 2023:1307323. [PMID: 37089712 PMCID: PMC10121351 DOI: 10.1155/2023/1307323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
The survival rate of lung cancer patients remains low largely due to chemotherapy resistance during treatment, and cancer stem cells (CSCs) may hold the key to targeting this resistance. Cisplatin is a chemotherapy drug commonly used in cancer treatment, yet the mechanisms of intrinsic cisplatin resistance have not yet been determined because lung CSCs are hard to identify. In this paper, we proposed a mechanism relating to the function of ursolic acid (UA), a new drug, in reversing the cisplatin resistance of lung cancer cells regulated by CSCs. Human lung cancer cell line A549 was selected as the model cell and treated to become a cisplatin-resistant lung cancer cell line (A549-CisR), which was less sensitive to cisplatin and showed an enhanced capability of tumor sphere formation. Furthermore, in the A549-CisR cell line expression, levels of pluripotent stem cell transcription factors Oct-4, Sox-2, and c-Myc were increased, and activation of the Jak2/Stat3 signaling pathway was promoted. When UA was applied to the cisplatin-resistant cells, levels of the pluripotent stem cell transcription factors were restrained by the inhibition of the Jak2/Stat3 signaling pathway, which reduced the enrichment of tumor stem cells, and in turn, reversed cisplatin resistance in lung cancer cells. Hence, as a potential antitumor drug, UA may be able to inhibit the enrichment of the lung CSC population by inhibiting the activation of the Jak2-Stat3 pathway and preventing the resistance of lung cancer cells to cisplatin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luxin Fan
- Department of Respiratory, Weifang People's Hospital, Weifang 261041, China
| | - Xiaodong Wang
- Microbiological Laboratory, Weifang Inspection and Testing Center, Weifang 261100, China
| | - Congcong Cheng
- Department of Oncology, Yidu Central Hospital of Weifang, Qingzhou 262500, China
| | - Shuxiao Wang
- Intravenous Drug Dispensing Center, Second Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan 250033, China
| | - Xuesong Li
- School of Clinical Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261053, China
| | - Jiayu Cui
- School of Clinical Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261053, China
| | - Baogang Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261053, China
| | - Lihong Shi
- School of Pharmacy, Weifang Medical University, Weifang 261053, China
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31
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Myeloid-derived suppressor cells in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2023; 375:33-92. [PMID: 36967154 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2022.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), which originated from hematopoietic stem cells, are heterogeneous population of cells that have different differentiation patterns and widely presented in tumor microenvironment. For tumor research, myeloid suppressor cells have received extensive attention since their discovery due to their specific immunosuppressive properties, and the mechanisms of immunosuppression and therapeutic approaches for MDSCs have been investigated in a variety of different types of malignancies. To improve the efficacy of treatment for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), a disease with a high occurrence, immunotherapy has gradually emerged in after traditional surgery and subsequent radiotherapy and chemotherapy, and has made some progress. In this review, we introduced the mechanisms on the development, differentiation, and elimination of MDSCs and provided a detailed overview of the mechanisms behind the immunosuppressive properties of MDSCs. We summarized the recent researches on MDSCs in HNSCC, especially for targeting-MDSCs therapy and combination with other types of therapy such as immune checkpoint blockade (ICB). Furthermore, we looked at drug delivery patterns and collected the current diverse drug delivery systems for the improvement that contributed to therapy against MDSCs in HNSCC. Most importantly, we made possible outlooks for the future research priorities, which provide a basis for further study on the clinical significance and therapeutic value of MDSCs in HNSCC.
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Liu Y, Han J, Kong T, Xiao N, Mei Q, Liu J. DriverMP enables improved identification of cancer driver genes. Gigascience 2022; 12:giad106. [PMID: 38091511 PMCID: PMC10716827 DOI: 10.1093/gigascience/giad106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cancer is widely regarded as a complex disease primarily driven by genetic mutations. A critical concern and significant obstacle lies in discerning driver genes amid an extensive array of passenger genes. FINDINGS We present a new method termed DriverMP for effectively prioritizing altered genes on a cancer-type level by considering mutated gene pairs. It is designed to first apply nonsilent somatic mutation data, protein‒protein interaction network data, and differential gene expression data to prioritize mutated gene pairs, and then individual mutated genes are prioritized based on prioritized mutated gene pairs. Application of this method in 10 cancer datasets from The Cancer Genome Atlas demonstrated its great improvements over all the compared state-of-the-art methods in identifying known driver genes. Then, a comprehensive analysis demonstrated the reliability of the novel driver genes that are strongly supported by clinical experiments, disease enrichment, or biological pathway analysis. CONCLUSIONS The new method, DriverMP, which is able to identify driver genes by effectively integrating the advantages of multiple kinds of cancer data, is available at https://github.com/LiuYangyangSDU/DriverMP. In addition, we have developed a novel driver gene database for 10 cancer types and an online service that can be freely accessed without registration for users. The DriverMP method, the database of novel drivers, and the user-friendly online server are expected to contribute to new diagnostic and therapeutic opportunities for cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangyang Liu
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, Shandong University (Weihai), Weihai 264209, China
| | - Jiyun Han
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, Shandong University (Weihai), Weihai 264209, China
| | - Tongxin Kong
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, Shandong University (Weihai), Weihai 264209, China
| | - Nannan Xiao
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, Shandong University (Weihai), Weihai 264209, China
| | - Qinglin Mei
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinformatics, BNRIST Bioinformatics Division, Department of Automation, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Juntao Liu
- School of Mathematics and Statistics, Shandong University (Weihai), Weihai 264209, China
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Nanoparticle-Mediated Delivery of STAT3 Inhibitors in the Treatment of Lung Cancer. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14122787. [PMID: 36559280 PMCID: PMC9781630 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14122787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer is a common malignancy worldwide, with high morbidity and mortality. Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is an important transcription factor that not only regulates different hallmarks of cancer, such as tumorigenesis, cell proliferation, and metastasis but also regulates the occurrence and maintenance of cancer stem cells (CSCs). Abnormal STAT3 activity has been found in a variety of cancers, including lung cancer, and its phosphorylation level is associated with a poor prognosis of lung cancer. Therefore, the STAT3 pathway may represent a promising therapeutic target for the treatment of lung cancer. To date, various types of STAT3 inhibitors, including natural compounds, small molecules, and gene-based therapies, have been developed through direct and indirect strategies, although most of them are still in the preclinical or early clinical stages. One of the main obstacles to the development of STAT3 inhibitors is the lack of an effective targeted delivery system to improve their bioavailability and tumor targetability, failing to fully demonstrate their anti-tumor effects. In this review, we will summarize the recent advances in STAT3 targeting strategies, as well as the applications of nanoparticle-mediated targeted delivery of STAT3 inhibitors in the treatment of lung cancer.
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Tian Y, Liu H, Wang M, Wang R, Yi G, Zhang M, Chen R. Role of STAT3 and NRF2 in Tumors: Potential Targets for Antitumor Therapy. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27248768. [PMID: 36557902 PMCID: PMC9781355 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27248768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and nuclear factor erythroid-derived 2-like 2 (NRF2, also known as NFE2L2), are two of the most complicated transcription regulators, which participate in a variety of physiological processes. Numerous studies have shown that they are overactivated in multiple types of tumors. Interestingly, STAT3 and NRF2 can also interact with each other to regulate tumor progression. Hence, these two important transcription factors are considered key targets for developing a new class of antitumor drugs. This review summarizes the pivotal roles of the two transcription regulators and their interactions in the tumor microenvironment to identify potential antitumor drug targets and, ultimately, improve patients' health and survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanjun Tian
- Medical Laboratory of Jining Medical University, Jining Medical University, Jining 272067, China
| | - Haiqing Liu
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences (Institute of Basic Medical Sciences), Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan 250024, China
| | - Mengwei Wang
- School of Stomatology, Jining Medical University, Jining 272067, China
| | - Ruihao Wang
- School of Mental Health, Jining Medical University, Jining 272067, China
| | - Guandong Yi
- School of Nursing, Jining Medical University, Jining 272067, China
| | - Meng Zhang
- Medical Laboratory of Jining Medical University, Jining Medical University, Jining 272067, China
| | - Ruijiao Chen
- Medical Laboratory of Jining Medical University, Jining Medical University, Jining 272067, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-537-361-6216
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35
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Mirzaei S, Paskeh MDA, Entezari M, Mirmazloomi SR, Hassanpoor A, Aboutalebi M, Rezaei S, Hejazi ES, Kakavand A, Heidari H, Salimimoghadam S, Taheriazam A, Hashemi M, Samarghandian S. SOX2 function in cancers: Association with growth, invasion, stemness and therapy response. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 156:113860. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
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36
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Sikandar SS, Gulati GS, Antony J, Fetter I, Kuo AH, Ho WHD, Haro-Acosta V, Das S, Steen CB, Pereira TA, Qian D, Beachy PA, Dirbas FM, Red-Horse K, Rabbitts TH, Thiery JP, Newman AM, Clarke MF. Identification of a minority population of LMO2 + breast cancer cells that integrate into the vasculature and initiate metastasis. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabm3548. [PMID: 36351009 PMCID: PMC10939096 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abm3548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Metastasis is responsible for most breast cancer-related deaths; however, identifying the cellular determinants of metastasis has remained challenging. Here, we identified a minority population of immature THY1+/VEGFA+ tumor epithelial cells in human breast tumor biopsies that display angiogenic features and are marked by the expression of the oncogene, LMO2. Higher abundance of LMO2+ basal cells correlated with tumor endothelial content and predicted poor distant recurrence-free survival in patients. Using MMTV-PyMT/Lmo2CreERT2 mice, we demonstrated that Lmo2 lineage-traced cells integrate into the vasculature and have a higher propensity to metastasize. LMO2 knockdown in human breast tumors reduced lung metastasis by impairing intravasation, leading to a reduced frequency of circulating tumor cells. Mechanistically, we find that LMO2 binds to STAT3 and is required for STAT3 activation by tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-6. Collectively, our study identifies a population of metastasis-initiating cells with angiogenic features and establishes the LMO2-STAT3 signaling axis as a therapeutic target in breast cancer metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaheen S. Sikandar
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA
| | - Gunsagar S. Gulati
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, 265 Campus Drive, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Jane Antony
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, 265 Campus Drive, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Isobel Fetter
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA
| | - Angera H. Kuo
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, 265 Campus Drive, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - William Hai Dang Ho
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, 265 Campus Drive, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Veronica Haro-Acosta
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA
| | - Soumyashree Das
- Department of Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Chloé B. Steen
- Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Thiago Almeida Pereira
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, 265 Campus Drive, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Dalong Qian
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, 265 Campus Drive, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Philip A. Beachy
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, 265 Campus Drive, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Frederick M. Dirbas
- Department of Surgery, Stanford Cancer Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, 875 Blake Wilbur Drive, Rm CC2235, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Kristy Red-Horse
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, 265 Campus Drive, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- Department of Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Terence H. Rabbitts
- Division of Cancer Therapeutics, Institute of Cancer Research, London SM2 5NG, UK
| | - Jean Paul Thiery
- Guangzhou Laboratory, International Biological Island, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510005, China
| | - Aaron M. Newman
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, 265 Campus Drive, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- Department of Biomedical Data Science, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Michael F. Clarke
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, 265 Campus Drive, School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
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37
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Sonawala K, Ramalingam S, Sellamuthu I. Influence of Long Non-Coding RNA in the Regulation of Cancer Stem Cell Signaling Pathways. Cells 2022; 11:3492. [PMID: 36359888 PMCID: PMC9656902 DOI: 10.3390/cells11213492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 08/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the past two decades, cancer stem cells (CSCs) have emerged as an immensely studied and experimental topic, however a wide range of questions concerning the topic still remain unanswered; in particular, the mechanisms underlying the regulation of tumor stem cells and their characteristics. Understanding the cancer stem-cell signaling pathways may pave the way towards a better comprehension of these mechanisms. Signaling pathways such as WNT, STAT, Hedgehog, NOTCH, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, TGF-β, and NF-κB are responsible not only for modulating various features of CSCs but also their microenvironments. Recently, the prominent roles of various non-coding RNAs such as small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in developing and enhancing the tumor phenotypes have been unfolded. This review attempts to shed light on understanding the influence of long non- coding RNAs in the modulation of various CSC-signaling pathways and its impact on the CSCs and tumor properties; highlighting the protagonistic and antagonistic roles of lncRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Iyappan Sellamuthu
- Department of Genetic Engineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, Chennai 603202, India
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38
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Min HY, Lee HY. Molecular targeted therapy for anticancer treatment. Exp Mol Med 2022; 54:1670-1694. [PMID: 36224343 PMCID: PMC9636149 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-022-00864-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the initial clinical approval in the late 1990s and remarkable anticancer effects for certain types of cancer, molecular targeted therapy utilizing small molecule agents or therapeutic monoclonal antibodies acting as signal transduction inhibitors has served as a fundamental backbone in precision medicine for cancer treatment. These approaches are now used clinically as first-line therapy for various types of human cancers. Compared to conventional chemotherapy, targeted therapeutic agents have efficient anticancer effects with fewer side effects. However, the emergence of drug resistance is a major drawback of molecular targeted therapy, and several strategies have been attempted to improve therapeutic efficacy by overcoming such resistance. Herein, we summarize current knowledge regarding several targeted therapeutic agents, including classification, a brief biology of target kinases, mechanisms of action, examples of clinically used targeted therapy, and perspectives for future development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hye-Young Min
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ho-Young Lee
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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39
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Morales-Valencia J, Lau L, Martí-Nin T, Ozerdem U, David G. Therapy-induced senescence promotes breast cancer cells plasticity by inducing Lipocalin-2 expression. Oncogene 2022; 41:4361-4370. [PMID: 35953598 PMCID: PMC9482949 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-022-02433-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
The acquisition of novel detrimental cellular properties following exposure to cytotoxic drugs leads to aggressive and metastatic tumors that often translates into an incurable disease. While the bulk of the primary tumor is eliminated upon exposure to chemotherapeutic treatment, residual cancer cells and non-transformed cells within the host can engage a stable cell cycle exit program named senescence. Senescent cells secrete a distinct set of pro-inflammatory factors, collectively termed the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). Upon exposure to the SASP, cancer cells undergo cellular plasticity resulting in increased proliferation, migration and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. The molecular mechanisms by which the SASP regulates these pro-tumorigenic features are poorly understood. Here, we report that breast cancer cells exposed to the SASP strongly upregulate Lipocalin-2 (LCN2). Furthermore, we demonstrate that LCN2 is critical for SASP-induced increased migration in breast cancer cells, and its inactivation potentiates the response to chemotherapeutic treatment in mouse models of breast cancer. Finally, we show that neoadjuvant chemotherapy treatment leads to LCN2 upregulation in residual human breast tumors, and correlates with worse overall survival. These findings provide the foundation for targeting LCN2 as an adjuvant therapeutic approach to prevent the emergence of aggressive tumors following chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Morales-Valencia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, NYU Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, 10016, USA
- NYU Langone Perlmutter Cancer Center, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Lena Lau
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, NYU Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Teresa Martí-Nin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, NYU Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Ugur Ozerdem
- Department of Pathology, New York University School of Medicine, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Gregory David
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, NYU Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, 10016, USA.
- NYU Langone Perlmutter Cancer Center, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, 10016, USA.
- Department of Urology, New York University School of Medicine, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, 10016, USA.
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40
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Neuropilin-2 promotes lineage plasticity and progression to neuroendocrine prostate cancer. Oncogene 2022; 41:4307-4317. [PMID: 35986103 PMCID: PMC9464715 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-022-02437-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Neuroendocrine prostate cancer (NEPC), a lethal subset of prostate cancer, is characterized by loss of AR signaling and resulting resistance to AR-targeted therapy during neuroendocrine transdifferentiation, for which the molecular mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we report that neuropilin 2 (NRP2) is upregulated in both de novo and therapy-induced NEPC, which induces neuroendocrine markers, neuroendocrine cell morphology, and NEPC cell aggressive behavior. NRP2 silencing restricted NEPC tumor xenograft growth. Mechanistically, NRP2 engages in reciprocal crosstalk with AR, where NRP2 is transcriptionally inhibited by AR, and in turn suppresses AR signaling by downregulating the AR transcriptional program and confers resistance to enzalutamide. Moreover, NRP2 physically interacts with VEGFR2 through the intracellular SEA domain to activate STAT3 phosphorylation and subsequently SOX2, thus driving NEPC differentiation and growth. Collectively, these results characterize NRP2 as a driver of NEPC and suggest NRP2 as a potential therapeutic target in NEPC.
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41
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Hajimoradi M, Rezalotfi A, Esmaeilnejad-Ahranjani P, Mohammad Hassan Z, Ebrahimi M. STAT3 inactivation suppresses stemness properties in gastric cancer stem cells and promotes Th17 in Treg/Th17 balance. Int Immunopharmacol 2022; 111:109048. [PMID: 35905563 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.109048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) has been recognized with dual effects in provision of cancer; either tumor inductive or immune suppressive. Recent findings considering the role of STAT3 in stem cells and cancer stem cell regulation, but its role in gastric cancer stem cells (GCSCs) and modulating the Th17/Treg balance is unknown. In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the role of activated STAT3 in GCSCs and Th17/ Treg cell paradigm. In completion of our previous results, the findings here indicate that gastro-spheroids, as a model of GCSCs, represent higher level of STAT3 activity, up-regulation of TGF-b and VEGF with downregulation of IL-6. On the other hand, treatment of normal naïve T cells with conditioned medium derived from gastro-spheroids promotes T cell differentiation toward cells with a higher level of FOXP3, TGF-b, and IL-10 expression which is indicative of Treg cells. Suppression of STAT3 activation in cancer cells by using Stattic small molecule treatment, decreases stemness features (i.e. spheroid formation and integrity, stemness gene expression and in vivo tumorigenicity capacity) and downregulates TGF-b in the cancer cells. Furthermore, co-culture of conditioned medium of STAT3 inhibited cancer cells with normal PBMCs leads to reduction in the percentage of Treg accompanied with increase of Th17 cells with a decrease in the secretion of TGF-b and increase in IFN-γ in T cells under differentiation. Therefore, targeting the STAT3 pathway in cancer cells seems to control the tumor formation and also impact on immune cells shifting to antitumor Th17 population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monireh Hajimoradi
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran; Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Sciences Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran; Department of Immunology, Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Karaj, Iran
| | - Alaleh Rezalotfi
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Sciences Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran; Institute of Immunology, Hannover Medical School, 30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Parvaneh Esmaeilnejad-Ahranjani
- Department of Anaerobic Bacterial Vaccine Research and Production, Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Karaj, Iran
| | - Zuhair Mohammad Hassan
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Marzieh Ebrahimi
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Sciences Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.
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Kapoor-Narula U, Lenka N. Cancer stem cells and tumor heterogeneity: Deciphering the role in tumor progression and metastasis. Cytokine 2022; 157:155968. [PMID: 35872504 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2022.155968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Tumor heterogeneity, in principle, reflects the variation among different cancer cell populations. It can be termed inter- or intra-tumoral heterogeneity, respectively, based on its occurrence in various tissues from diverse patients or within a single tumor. The intra-tumoral heterogeneity is one of the leading causes of cancer progression and treatment failure, with the cancer stem cells (CSCs) contributing immensely to the same. These niche cells, similar to normal stem cells, possess the characteristics of self-renewal and differentiation into multiple cell types. Moreover, CSCs contribute to tumor growth and surveillance by promoting recurrence, metastasis, and therapeutic resistance. Diverse factors, including intracellular signalling pathways and tumor microenvironment (TME), play a vital role in regulating these CSCs. Although a panel of markers is considered to identify the CSC pool in various cancers, further research is needed to discriminate cancer-specific CSC markers in those. CSCs have also been found to be promising therapeutic targets for cancer therapy. Several small molecules, natural compounds, antibodies, chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cells, and CAR-natural killer (CAR-NK) cells have emerged as therapeutic tools for specific targeting of CSCs. Interestingly, many of these are in clinical trials too. Despite being a much-explored avenue of research for years, and we have come to understand its nitty-gritty, there is still a tremendous gap in our knowledge concerning its precise genesis and regulation. Hence, a concrete understanding is needed to assess the CSC-TME link and how to target different cancer-specific CSCs by designing newer tools. In this review, we have summarized CSC, its causative, different pathways and factors regulating its growth, association with tumor heterogeneity, and last but not least, discussed many of the promising CSC-targeted therapies for combating cancer metastasis.
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Mukherjee S, Sakpal A, Mehrotra M, Phadte P, Rekhi B, Ray P. Homo and Heterotypic Cellular Cross-Talk in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer Impart Pro-Tumorigenic Properties through Differential Activation of the Notch3 Pathway. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:3365. [PMID: 35884426 PMCID: PMC9319742 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14143365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
An active fluidic microenvironment governs peritoneal metastasis in epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC), but its critical functional/molecular cues are not fully understood. Utilizing co-culture models of NIH3T3 cells (differentially overexpressing Jagged1) and SKOV3 cells expressing a Notch3 luciferase reporter-sensor (SNFT), we showed that incremental expression of Jagged1 led to proportional Notch3 activation in SNFT. With no basal luciferase activity, this system efficiently recorded dose-dependent Notch3 activation by rh-Jag1 peptide and the non-appearance of such induction in co-culture with NIH3T3Δjag1 cells indicates its sensitivity and specificity. Similar Notch3 modulation was shown for the first time in co-cultures with HGSOC patients' ascites-derived cancer-associated fibroblasts and Jagged1-expressing EOC cell lines. NIH3T3J1-A and OVCAR3 co-cultured SNFT cells showed maximum proliferation, invasion, and cisplatin resistance among all the heterotypic/homotypic cellular partners. VEGFA and CDKN1A are the two most upregulated genes identified across co-cultures by the gene profiler array. Co-culture induced VEGFA secretion from SNFT cells which also reduced cancer stem cell differentiation in platinum-resistant A2780 cells. rh-Jag1-peptide promoted enhanced nuclear-cytoplasmic p21 expression. Additionally, metastatic HGSOC tumors had higher VEGFA than corresponding primary tumors. This study thus demonstrates the tumoral and non-tumoral cell-mediated differential Notch3 activation imparting its tumorigenic effects through two critical molecular regulators, VEGFA and p21, during EOC progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Souvik Mukherjee
- Imaging Cell Signaling and Therapeutics Lab, Advanced Centre for Training Research and Education in Cancer, Navi Mumbai 410210, India; (S.M.); (A.S.); (M.M.); (P.P.)
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, BARC Training School Complex, Anushaktinagar, Mumbai 400094, India;
| | - Asmita Sakpal
- Imaging Cell Signaling and Therapeutics Lab, Advanced Centre for Training Research and Education in Cancer, Navi Mumbai 410210, India; (S.M.); (A.S.); (M.M.); (P.P.)
| | - Megha Mehrotra
- Imaging Cell Signaling and Therapeutics Lab, Advanced Centre for Training Research and Education in Cancer, Navi Mumbai 410210, India; (S.M.); (A.S.); (M.M.); (P.P.)
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, BARC Training School Complex, Anushaktinagar, Mumbai 400094, India;
| | - Pratham Phadte
- Imaging Cell Signaling and Therapeutics Lab, Advanced Centre for Training Research and Education in Cancer, Navi Mumbai 410210, India; (S.M.); (A.S.); (M.M.); (P.P.)
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, BARC Training School Complex, Anushaktinagar, Mumbai 400094, India;
| | - Bharat Rekhi
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, BARC Training School Complex, Anushaktinagar, Mumbai 400094, India;
- Tata Memorial Hospital, Dr. E Borges Road, Parel, Mumbai 400012, India
| | - Pritha Ray
- Imaging Cell Signaling and Therapeutics Lab, Advanced Centre for Training Research and Education in Cancer, Navi Mumbai 410210, India; (S.M.); (A.S.); (M.M.); (P.P.)
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, BARC Training School Complex, Anushaktinagar, Mumbai 400094, India;
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Comprehensive Computational Analysis of Honokiol Targets for Cell Cycle Inhibition and Immunotherapy in Metastatic Breast Cancer Stem Cells. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 2022:4172531. [PMID: 35845599 PMCID: PMC9286982 DOI: 10.1155/2022/4172531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) play a critical role in chemoresistance, metastasis, and poor prognosis of breast cancer. BCSCs are mostly dormant, and therefore, activating them and modulating the cell cycle are important for successful therapy against BCSCs. The tumor microenvironment (TME) promotes BCSC survival and cancer progression, and targeting the TME can aid in successful immunotherapy. Honokiol (HNK), a bioactive polyphenol isolated from the bark and seed pods of Magnolia spp., is known to exert anticancer effects, such as inducing cell cycle arrest, inhibiting metastasis, and overcoming immunotherapy resistance in breast cancer cells. However, the molecular mechanisms of action of HNK in BCSCs, as well as its effects on the cell cycle, remain unclear. This study aimed to explore the potential targets and molecular mechanisms of HNK on metastatic BCSC (mBCSC)-cell cycle arrest and the impact of the TME. Using bioinformatics analyses, we predicted HNK protein targets from several databases and retrieved the genes differentially expressed in mBCSCs from the GEO database. The intersection between the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and the HNK-targets was determined using a Venn diagram, and the results were analyzed using a protein-protein interaction network, hub gene selection, gene ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analyses, genetic alteration analysis, survival rate, and immune cell infiltration levels. Finally, the interaction between HNK and two HNK-targets regulating the cell cycle was analyzed using molecular docking analysis. The identified potential therapeutic targets of HNK (PTTH) included CCND1, SIRT2, AURKB, VEGFA, HDAC1, CASP9, HSP90AA1, and HSP90AB1, which can potentially inhibit the cell cycle of mBCSCs. Moreover, our results showed that PTTH could modulate the PI3K/Akt/mTOR and HIF1/NFkB/pathways. Overall, these findings highlight the potential of HNK as an immunotherapeutic agent for mBCSCs by modulating the tumor immune environment.
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Wang L, Jin Z, Master RP, Maharjan CK, Carelock ME, Reccoppa TBA, Kim MC, Kolb R, Zhang W. Breast Cancer Stem Cells: Signaling Pathways, Cellular Interactions, and Therapeutic Implications. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:3287. [PMID: 35805056 PMCID: PMC9265870 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14133287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 07/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) constitute a small population of cells within breast cancer and are characterized by their ability to self-renew, differentiate, and recapitulate the heterogeneity of the tumor. Clinically, BCSCs have been correlated with cancer progression, metastasis, relapse, and drug resistance. The tumorigenic roles of BCSCs have been extensively reviewed and will not be the major focus of the current review. Here, we aim to highlight how the crucial intrinsic signaling pathways regulate the fate of BCSCs, including the Wnt, Notch, Hedgehog, and NF-κB signaling pathways, as well as how different cell populations crosstalk with BCSCs within the TME, including adipocytes, endothelial cells, fibroblasts, and immune cells. Based on the molecular and cellular activities of BCSCs, we will also summarize the targeting strategies for BCSCs and related clinical trials. This review will highlight that BCSC development in breast cancer is impacted by both BCSC endogenous signaling and external factors in the TME, which provides an insight into how to establish a comprehensively therapeutic strategy to target BCSCs for breast cancer treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Wang
- Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA; (L.W.); (Z.J.); (R.P.M.); (C.K.M.); (M.E.C.); (T.B.A.R.); (M.-C.K.); (R.K.)
- Immunology Concentration, Biomedical Graduate Program, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Zeng Jin
- Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA; (L.W.); (Z.J.); (R.P.M.); (C.K.M.); (M.E.C.); (T.B.A.R.); (M.-C.K.); (R.K.)
- Cancer Biology Concentration, Biomedical Graduate Program, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Rohan P. Master
- Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA; (L.W.); (Z.J.); (R.P.M.); (C.K.M.); (M.E.C.); (T.B.A.R.); (M.-C.K.); (R.K.)
| | - Chandra K. Maharjan
- Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA; (L.W.); (Z.J.); (R.P.M.); (C.K.M.); (M.E.C.); (T.B.A.R.); (M.-C.K.); (R.K.)
| | - Madison E. Carelock
- Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA; (L.W.); (Z.J.); (R.P.M.); (C.K.M.); (M.E.C.); (T.B.A.R.); (M.-C.K.); (R.K.)
- Cancer Biology Concentration, Biomedical Graduate Program, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Tiffany B. A. Reccoppa
- Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA; (L.W.); (Z.J.); (R.P.M.); (C.K.M.); (M.E.C.); (T.B.A.R.); (M.-C.K.); (R.K.)
- Department of Biology, College of Liberal Arts & Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Myung-Chul Kim
- Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA; (L.W.); (Z.J.); (R.P.M.); (C.K.M.); (M.E.C.); (T.B.A.R.); (M.-C.K.); (R.K.)
| | - Ryan Kolb
- Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA; (L.W.); (Z.J.); (R.P.M.); (C.K.M.); (M.E.C.); (T.B.A.R.); (M.-C.K.); (R.K.)
- UF Health Cancer Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Weizhou Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA; (L.W.); (Z.J.); (R.P.M.); (C.K.M.); (M.E.C.); (T.B.A.R.); (M.-C.K.); (R.K.)
- UF Health Cancer Center, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
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Zhang N, Gao X, Zhang W, Xiong J, Cao X, Fu ZF, Cui M. JEV Infection Induces M-MDSC Differentiation Into CD3 + Macrophages in the Brain. Front Immunol 2022; 13:838990. [PMID: 35529855 PMCID: PMC9068957 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.838990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) is one of the most important members of the flavivirus family. It is a typical zoonotic pathogen that has caused substantial social and economic losses worldwide. The relation between JEV-induced immunosuppression and inflammatory responses has not been thoroughly investigated. In this study, cells infiltrating the brain tissue of JEV-infected mice were mainly identified as monocytic myeloid-derived suppressor cells (M-MDSCs), which subsequently differentiated into CD3+ macrophages. Co-culture with T cells showed that both splenic M-MDSCs and brain infiltrated M-MDSCs isolated from JEV-infected mice inhibited T cell proliferation through ARG1 and iNOS. The splenectomy model revealed that JEV-induced M-MDSCs were mainly derived from bone marrow and migrated to the spleen and central nervous system (CNS). The results of the transcriptome analysis and IRF7-deficient mice indicated that the ZBP1-IRF7 signaling pathway stimulated by JEV RNA played a central role in the induction of M-MDSCs. M-MDSCs migrated into the CNS through the chemokine CCL2/N-CCL2 derived from astrocytes and brain infiltrated M-MDSCs differentiated into CD3+ macrophages through a mechanism mediated by M-CSF, IL-6 and IFN-γ in the brain microenvironment. These findings provide evidence for the mechanism that JEV regulates the differentiation of M-MDSCs and thereby exacerbates pathogenicity, which represents a potential therapeutic target for Japanese encephalitis (JE).
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China,Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine in Hubei Province, The Cooperative Innovation Center for Sustainable Pig Production, Wuhan, China,Key Laboratory of Development of Veterinary Diagnostic Products, Ministry of Agriculture of the People’s Republic of China, Wuhan, China,International Research Center for Animal Disease, Ministry of Science and Technology of the People’s Republic of China, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaochen Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China,Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine in Hubei Province, The Cooperative Innovation Center for Sustainable Pig Production, Wuhan, China,Key Laboratory of Development of Veterinary Diagnostic Products, Ministry of Agriculture of the People’s Republic of China, Wuhan, China,International Research Center for Animal Disease, Ministry of Science and Technology of the People’s Republic of China, Wuhan, China
| | - Weijia Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China,Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine in Hubei Province, The Cooperative Innovation Center for Sustainable Pig Production, Wuhan, China,Key Laboratory of Development of Veterinary Diagnostic Products, Ministry of Agriculture of the People’s Republic of China, Wuhan, China,International Research Center for Animal Disease, Ministry of Science and Technology of the People’s Republic of China, Wuhan, China
| | - Junyao Xiong
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China,Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine in Hubei Province, The Cooperative Innovation Center for Sustainable Pig Production, Wuhan, China,Key Laboratory of Development of Veterinary Diagnostic Products, Ministry of Agriculture of the People’s Republic of China, Wuhan, China,International Research Center for Animal Disease, Ministry of Science and Technology of the People’s Republic of China, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaojian Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China,Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine in Hubei Province, The Cooperative Innovation Center for Sustainable Pig Production, Wuhan, China,Key Laboratory of Development of Veterinary Diagnostic Products, Ministry of Agriculture of the People’s Republic of China, Wuhan, China,International Research Center for Animal Disease, Ministry of Science and Technology of the People’s Republic of China, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhen F. Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China,Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine in Hubei Province, The Cooperative Innovation Center for Sustainable Pig Production, Wuhan, China,Key Laboratory of Development of Veterinary Diagnostic Products, Ministry of Agriculture of the People’s Republic of China, Wuhan, China,International Research Center for Animal Disease, Ministry of Science and Technology of the People’s Republic of China, Wuhan, China
| | - Min Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China,Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine in Hubei Province, The Cooperative Innovation Center for Sustainable Pig Production, Wuhan, China,Key Laboratory of Development of Veterinary Diagnostic Products, Ministry of Agriculture of the People’s Republic of China, Wuhan, China,International Research Center for Animal Disease, Ministry of Science and Technology of the People’s Republic of China, Wuhan, China,*Correspondence: Min Cui,
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Abd Al Moaty MN, El Ashry ESH, Awad LF, Ibrahim NA, Abu-Serie MM, Barakat A, Altowyan MS, Teleb M. Enhancing the Anticancer Potential of Targeting Tumor-Associated Metalloenzymes via VEGFR Inhibition by New Triazolo[4,3-a]pyrimidinone Acyclo C-Nucleosides Multitarget Agents. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27082422. [PMID: 35458618 PMCID: PMC9026109 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27082422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The role of metalloenzymes in tumor progression had broadened their application in cancer therapy. Of these, MMPs and CAs are validated druggable targets that share some pivotal signaling pathways. The majority of MMPs or CAs inhibitors are designed as single-target agents. Despite their transient efficacy, these agents are often susceptible to resistance. This set the stage to introduce dual inhibitors of correlated MMPs and CAs. The next step is expected to target the common vital signaling nodes as well. In this regard, VEGFR-2 is central to various tumorigenesis events involving both families, especially MMP-2 and CA II. Herein, we report simultaneous inhibition of MMP-2, CA II, and VEGFR-2 via rationally designed hybrid 1,2,4-triazolo[4,3-a]pyrimidinone acyclo C-nucleosides. The promising derivatives were nanomolar inhibitors of VEGFR-2 (8; IC50 = 5.89 nM, 9; IC50 = 10.52 nM) and MMP-2 (8; IC50 = 17.44 nM, 9; IC50 = 30.93 nM) and submicromolar inhibitors of CA II (8; IC50 = 0.21 µM, 9; IC50 = 0.36 µM). Docking studies predicted their binding modes into the enzyme active sites and the structural determinants of activity regarding substitution and regioselectivity. MTT assay demonstrated that both compounds were 12 folds safer than doxorubicin with superior anticancer activities against three human cancers recording single-digit nanomolar IC50, thus echoing their enzymatic activities. Up to our knowledge, this study introduces the first in class triazolopyrimidinone acyclo C-nucleosides VEGFR-2/MMP-2/CA II inhibitors that deserve further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Nabil Abd Al Moaty
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21321, Egypt; (M.N.A.A.M.); (E.S.H.E.A.); (N.A.I.)
| | - El Sayed Helmy El Ashry
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21321, Egypt; (M.N.A.A.M.); (E.S.H.E.A.); (N.A.I.)
| | - Laila Fathy Awad
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21321, Egypt; (M.N.A.A.M.); (E.S.H.E.A.); (N.A.I.)
- Correspondence: (L.F.A.); (A.B.)
| | - Nihal Ahmed Ibrahim
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21321, Egypt; (M.N.A.A.M.); (E.S.H.E.A.); (N.A.I.)
| | - Marwa Muhammad Abu-Serie
- Medical Biotechnology Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Institute, City of Scientific Research and Technological Applications (SRTA-City), Alexandria 21934, Egypt;
| | - Assem Barakat
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
- Correspondence: (L.F.A.); (A.B.)
| | - Mezna Saleh Altowyan
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Mohamed Teleb
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21521, Egypt;
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Formulation and Characterization of Doxycycline-Loaded Polymeric Nanoparticles for Testing Antitumor/Antiangiogenic Action in Experimental Colon Cancer in Mice. NANOMATERIALS 2022; 12:nano12050857. [PMID: 35269343 PMCID: PMC8912660 DOI: 10.3390/nano12050857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Nanotherapeutics can enhance the characteristics of drugs, such as rapid systemic clearance and systemic toxicities. Polymeric nanoparticles (PRNPs) depend on dispersion of a drug in an amorphous state in a polymer matrix. PRNPs are capable of delivering drugs and improving their safety. The primary goal of this study is to formulate doxycycline-loaded PRNPs by applying the nanoprecipitation method. Eudragit S100 (ES100) (for DOX-PRNP1) and hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose phthalate HP55 (for DOX-PRNP2) were tested as the drug carrying polymers and the DOX-PRNP2 showed better characteristics and drug release % and was hence selected to be tested in the biological study. Six different experimental groups were formed from sixty male albino mice. 1,2,-Dimethylhydrazine was used for 16 weeks to induce experimental colon cancer. We compared the oral administration of DOX-PRNP2 in doses of 5 and 10 mg/kg with the free drug. Results indicated that DOX-PRNP2 had greater antitumor activity, as evidenced by an improved histopathological picture for colon specimens as well as a decrease in the tumor scores. In addition, when compared to free DOX, the DOX-PRNP2 reduced the angiogenic indicators VEGD and CD31 to a greater extent. Collectively, the findings demonstrated that formulating DOX in PRNPs was useful in enhancing antitumor activity and can be used in other models of cancers to verify their efficacy and compatibility with our study.
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The Endocrine Disruptor Compound Bisphenol-A (BPA) Regulates the Intra-Tumoral Immune Microenvironment and Increases Lung Metastasis in an Experimental Model of Breast Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23052523. [PMID: 35269666 PMCID: PMC8909997 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The widely spread microplastic component and endocrine disruptor BPA is a hazardous material recognized for a long time. Here, for the first time, we demonstrated that BPA, administered into mice in a very specific developmental step of the animal (3 days post-natal), induces an increase in metastasis to the lung in the adult life, compared to the control or vehicle mice. In addition, of novelty, it is the analysis of the cytokine tumor microenvironment, which is the reason for the increased metastasis by BPA (BPA induce the increase in pro-metastatic cytokines). Abstract Breast cancer (BC) metastasis represents the main physiopathology leading to poor prognosis and death. Bisphenol A (BPA) is a pollutant, classified as an endocrine-disrupting chemical compound with estrogenic properties, their exposure in the early stages of neonatal life leads to an increase in the size and weight of breast tumors and induces cellular changes in the tumoral immune microenvironment where cytokines play a key role. Thus, we used female BALB/c mice exposed neonatally to a single dose of BPA. Once mice reached sexual maturity, a mammary tumor was induced, injecting 4T1 cells in situ. After 25 days of injection, we evaluated endocrine alterations, cytokine expression, tissue alterations denoted by macro or micro-metastasis in the lung, and cell infiltration induced by metastasis. We found that BPA neonatal treatment did not show significant endocrine alterations. Noteworthy, BPA led to an augmented rate of metastasis to the lung associated with higher intratumoral expression of IL-1β, IL-6, IFN-γ, TNF-α, and VEGF. Our data suggest that cytokines are key players in the induction of BC metastasis and that BPA (an environmental pollutant) should be considered as a risk factor in the clinical history of patients as a possible inductor of BC metastasis.
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Xia Z, Xiao J, Dai Z, Chen Q. Membrane progesterone receptor α (mPRα) enhances hypoxia-induced vascular endothelial growth factor secretion and angiogenesis in lung adenocarcinoma through STAT3 signaling. J Transl Med 2022; 20:72. [PMID: 35123491 PMCID: PMC8817580 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-022-03270-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer remains a huge challenge to public health because of its high incidence and mortality, and lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is the main subtype of lung cancer. Hypoxia-induced vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) release and angiogenesis have been regarded as critical events in LUAD carcinogenesis. In the present study, membrane progesterone receptor α (mPRα) is deregulated within LUAD tissue samples; increased mPRα contributes to a higher microvessel density (MVD) in LUAD tissues. mPRα knockdown in A549 and PC-9 cells significantly inhibited STAT3 phosphorylation, as well as HIF1α and VEGF protein levels, decreasing cancer cell migration and invasion. The in vivo xenograft model further confirmed that mPRα enhanced the aggressiveness of LUAD cells. Furthermore, mPRα knockdown significantly inhibited hypoxia-induced upregulation in HIF1α and VEGF levels, as well as LUAD cell migration and invasion. Under the hypoxic condition, conditioned medium (CM) derived from mPRα knockdown A549 cells, namely si-mPRα-CM, significantly inhibited HUVEC migration and tube formation and decreased VEGF level in the culture medium. In contrast, CM derived from mPRα-overexpressing A549 cells, namely mPRα-CM, further enhanced HUVEC migration and tube formation and increased VEGF level under hypoxia, which was partially reversed by STAT3 inhibitor Stattic. In conclusion, in LUAD cells, highly expressed mPRα enhances the activation of cAMP/JAK/STAT3 signaling and increases HIF1α-induced VEGF secretion into the tumor microenvironment, promoting HUVEC migration and tube formation under hypoxia.
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