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Farhangnia P, Khorramdelazad H, Nickho H, Delbandi AA. Current and future immunotherapeutic approaches in pancreatic cancer treatment. J Hematol Oncol 2024; 17:40. [PMID: 38835055 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-024-01561-6] [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: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is a major cause of cancer-related death, but despondently, the outlook and prognosis for this resistant type of tumor have remained grim for a long time. Currently, it is extremely challenging to prevent or detect it early enough for effective treatment because patients rarely exhibit symptoms and there are no reliable indicators for detection. Most patients have advanced or spreading cancer that is difficult to treat, and treatments like chemotherapy and radiotherapy can only slightly prolong their life by a few months. Immunotherapy has revolutionized the treatment of pancreatic cancer, yet its effectiveness is limited by the tumor's immunosuppressive and hard-to-reach microenvironment. First, this article explains the immunosuppressive microenvironment of pancreatic cancer and highlights a wide range of immunotherapy options, including therapies involving oncolytic viruses, modified T cells (T-cell receptor [TCR]-engineered and chimeric antigen receptor [CAR] T-cell therapy), CAR natural killer cell therapy, cytokine-induced killer cells, immune checkpoint inhibitors, immunomodulators, cancer vaccines, and strategies targeting myeloid cells in the context of contemporary knowledge and future trends. Lastly, it discusses the main challenges ahead of pancreatic cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pooya Farhangnia
- Reproductive Sciences and Technology Research Center, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Immunology Board for Transplantation and Cell-Based Therapeutics (ImmunoTACT), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Khorramdelazad
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - Hamid Nickho
- Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali-Akbar Delbandi
- Reproductive Sciences and Technology Research Center, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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2
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Liu M, Zhong XS, Krishnachaitanya SS, Ou R, Dashwood RH, Powell DW, Li Q. Erlotinib suppresses tumorigenesis in a mouse model of colitis-associated cancer. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 175:116580. [PMID: 38723513 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116580] [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: 02/08/2024] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Colitis-associated cancer (CAC) in inflammatory bowel diseases exhibits more aggressive behavior than sporadic colorectal cancer; however, the molecular mechanisms remain unclear. No definitive preventative agent against CAC is currently established in the clinical setting. We investigated the molecular mechanisms of CAC in the azoxymethane/dextran sulfate sodium (AOM/DSS) mouse model and assessed the antitumor efficacy of erlotinib, a small molecule inhibitor of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). Erlotinib premixed with AIN-93 G diet at 70 or 140 parts per million (ppm) inhibited tumor multiplicity significantly by 96%, with ∼60% of the treated mice exhibiting zero polyps at 12 weeks. Bulk RNA-sequencing revealed more than a thousand significant gene alterations in the colons of AOM/DSS-treated mice, with KEGG enrichment analysis highlighting 46 signaling pathways in CAC development. Erlotinib altered several signaling pathways and rescued 40 key genes dysregulated in CAC, including those involved in the Hippo and Wnt signaling. These findings suggest that the clinically-used antitumor agent erlotinib might be repurposed for suppression of CAC, and that further studies are warranted on the crosstalk between dysregulated Wnt and EGFR signaling in the corresponding patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max Liu
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Xiaoying S Zhong
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Srikruthi S Krishnachaitanya
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Rongliwen Ou
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, USA; Department of Gastroenterology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Roderick H Dashwood
- Center for Epigenetics & Disease Prevention, Texas A&M School of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Don W Powell
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Qingjie Li
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, USA.
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3
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Park JH, Mortaja M, Son HG, Zhao X, Sloat LM, Azin M, Wang J, Collier MR, Tummala KS, Mandinova A, Bardeesy N, Semenov YR, Mino-Kenudson M, Demehri S. Statin prevents cancer development in chronic inflammation by blocking interleukin 33 expression. Nat Commun 2024; 15:4099. [PMID: 38816352 PMCID: PMC11139893 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-48441-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Chronic inflammation is a major cause of cancer worldwide. Interleukin 33 (IL-33) is a critical initiator of cancer-prone chronic inflammation; however, its induction mechanism by environmental causes of chronic inflammation is unknown. Herein, we demonstrate that Toll-like receptor (TLR)3/4-TBK1-IRF3 pathway activation links environmental insults to IL-33 induction in the skin and pancreas inflammation. An FDA-approved drug library screen identifies pitavastatin to effectively suppress IL-33 expression by blocking TBK1 membrane recruitment/activation through the mevalonate pathway inhibition. Accordingly, pitavastatin prevents chronic pancreatitis and its cancer sequela in an IL-33-dependent manner. The IRF3-IL-33 axis is highly active in chronic pancreatitis and its associated pancreatic cancer in humans. Interestingly, pitavastatin use correlates with a significantly reduced risk of chronic pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer in patients. Our findings demonstrate that blocking the TBK1-IRF3-IL-33 signaling axis suppresses cancer-prone chronic inflammation. Statins present a safe and effective prophylactic strategy to prevent chronic inflammation and its cancer sequela.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jong Ho Park
- Center for Cancer Immunology, Krantz Family Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Cutaneous Biology Research Center, Department of Dermatology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Keimyung University, Daegu, South Korea
| | - Mahsa Mortaja
- Center for Cancer Immunology, Krantz Family Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Cutaneous Biology Research Center, Department of Dermatology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Heehwa G Son
- Center for Cancer Immunology, Krantz Family Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Cutaneous Biology Research Center, Department of Dermatology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Xutu Zhao
- Center for Cancer Immunology, Krantz Family Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Cutaneous Biology Research Center, Department of Dermatology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lauren M Sloat
- Center for Cancer Immunology, Krantz Family Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Cutaneous Biology Research Center, Department of Dermatology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Marjan Azin
- Center for Cancer Immunology, Krantz Family Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Cutaneous Biology Research Center, Department of Dermatology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Jun Wang
- Cutaneous Biology Research Center, Department of Dermatology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Michael R Collier
- Department of Dermatology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Krishna S Tummala
- Krantz Family Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Cancer Program, Broad Institute of Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Quantitative Biosciences, Merck Research Laboratories, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Anna Mandinova
- Cutaneous Biology Research Center, Department of Dermatology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Nabeel Bardeesy
- Krantz Family Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Center for Regenerative Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Cancer Program, Broad Institute of Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Yevgeniy R Semenov
- Department of Dermatology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Laboratory of Systems Pharmacology, Harvard Program in Therapeutic Science, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | - Mari Mino-Kenudson
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Shadmehr Demehri
- Center for Cancer Immunology, Krantz Family Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
- Cutaneous Biology Research Center, Department of Dermatology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
- Department of Dermatology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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4
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Hsu SK, Chou CK, Lin IL, Chang WT, Kuo IY, Chiu CC. Deubiquitinating enzymes: potential regulators of the tumor microenvironment and implications for immune evasion. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:259. [PMID: 38715050 PMCID: PMC11075295 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01633-7] [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: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Ubiquitination and deubiquitination are important forms of posttranslational modification that govern protein homeostasis. Deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs), a protein superfamily consisting of more than 100 members, deconjugate ubiquitin chains from client proteins to regulate cellular homeostasis. However, the dysregulation of DUBs is reportedly associated with several diseases, including cancer. The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a highly complex entity comprising diverse noncancerous cells (e.g., immune cells and stromal cells) and the extracellular matrix (ECM). Since TME heterogeneity is closely related to tumorigenesis and immune evasion, targeting TME components has recently been considered an attractive therapeutic strategy for restoring antitumor immunity. Emerging studies have revealed the involvement of DUBs in immune modulation within the TME, including the regulation of immune checkpoints and immunocyte infiltration and function, which renders DUBs promising for potent cancer immunotherapy. Nevertheless, the roles of DUBs in the crosstalk between tumors and their surrounding components have not been comprehensively reviewed. In this review, we discuss the involvement of DUBs in the dynamic interplay between tumors, immune cells, and stromal cells and illustrate how dysregulated DUBs facilitate immune evasion and promote tumor progression. We also summarize potential small molecules that target DUBs to alleviate immunosuppression and suppress tumorigenesis. Finally, we discuss the prospects and challenges regarding the targeting of DUBs in cancer immunotherapeutics and several urgent problems that warrant further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng-Kai Hsu
- Department of Biotechnology, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, 807, Taiwan
| | - Chon-Kit Chou
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Science, University of Macau, Macau SAR, 999078, P.R. China
| | - I-Ling Lin
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, 807, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Tsan Chang
- Division of General and Digestive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, 807, Taiwan
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, 807, Taiwan
- Center for Cancer Research, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, 807, Taiwan
| | - I-Ying Kuo
- Department of Biotechnology, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, 807, Taiwan.
| | - Chien-Chih Chiu
- Department of Biotechnology, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, 807, Taiwan.
- Center for Cancer Research, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, 807, Taiwan.
- Department of Biological Sciences, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung, 804, Taiwan.
- Department of Medical Research, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, 807, Taiwan.
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5
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Fuller AM, Pruitt HC, Liu Y, Irizarry-Negron VM, Pan H, Song H, DeVine A, Katti RS, Devalaraja S, Ciotti GE, Gonzalez MV, Williams EF, Murazzi I, Ntekoumes D, Skuli N, Hakonarson H, Zabransky DJ, Trevino JG, Weeraratna A, Weber K, Haldar M, Fraietta JA, Gerecht S, Eisinger-Mathason TSK. Oncogene-induced matrix reorganization controls CD8+ T cell function in the soft-tissue sarcoma microenvironment. J Clin Invest 2024; 134:e167826. [PMID: 38652549 PMCID: PMC11142734 DOI: 10.1172/jci167826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
CD8+ T cell dysfunction impedes antitumor immunity in solid cancers, but the underlying mechanisms are diverse and poorly understood. Extracellular matrix (ECM) composition has been linked to impaired T cell migration and enhanced tumor progression; however, impacts of individual ECM molecules on T cell function in the tumor microenvironment (TME) are only beginning to be elucidated. Upstream regulators of aberrant ECM deposition and organization in solid tumors are equally ill-defined. Therefore, we investigated how ECM composition modulates CD8+ T cell function in undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (UPS), an immunologically active desmoplastic tumor. Using an autochthonous murine model of UPS and data from multiple human patient cohorts, we discovered a multifaceted mechanism wherein the transcriptional coactivator YAP1 promotes collagen VI (COLVI) deposition in the UPS TME. In turn, COLVI induces CD8+ T cell dysfunction and immune evasion by remodeling fibrillar collagen and inhibiting T cell autophagic flux. Unexpectedly, collagen I (COLI) opposed COLVI in this setting, promoting CD8+ T cell function and acting as a tumor suppressor. Thus, CD8+ T cell responses in sarcoma depend on oncogene-mediated ECM composition and remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley M Fuller
- Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Penn Sarcoma Program, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Hawley C Pruitt
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Ying Liu
- Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Penn Sarcoma Program, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Valerie M Irizarry-Negron
- Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Penn Sarcoma Program, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Hehai Pan
- Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Penn Sarcoma Program, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Hoogeun Song
- Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Penn Sarcoma Program, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Ann DeVine
- Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Penn Sarcoma Program, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Rohan S Katti
- Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Penn Sarcoma Program, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Samir Devalaraja
- Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Penn Sarcoma Program, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Gabrielle E Ciotti
- Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Penn Sarcoma Program, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | - Erik F Williams
- Department of Microbiology, Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Ileana Murazzi
- Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Penn Sarcoma Program, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Dimitris Ntekoumes
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Nicolas Skuli
- Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Penn Sarcoma Program, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Hakon Hakonarson
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Daniel J Zabransky
- Department of Oncology, The Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Jose G Trevino
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Ashani Weeraratna
- Department of Oncology, The Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Kristy Weber
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Penn Sarcoma Program, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Malay Haldar
- Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Penn Sarcoma Program, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Joseph A Fraietta
- Department of Microbiology, Center for Cellular Immunotherapies, Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Sharon Gerecht
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Institute for NanoBioTechnology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - T S Karin Eisinger-Mathason
- Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Penn Sarcoma Program, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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Peng L, Zhou L, Li H, Zhang X, Li S, Wang K, Yang M, Ma X, Zhang D, Xiang S, Duan Y, Wang T, Sun C, Wang C, Lu D, Qian M, Wang Z. Hippo-signaling-controlled MHC class I antigen processing and presentation pathway potentiates antitumor immunity. Cell Rep 2024; 43:114003. [PMID: 38527062 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114003] [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: 09/23/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC class I)-mediated tumor antigen processing and presentation (APP) pathway is essential for the recruitment and activation of cytotoxic CD8+ T lymphocytes (CD8+ CTLs). However, this pathway is frequently dysregulated in many cancers, thus leading to a failure of immunotherapy. Here, we report that activation of the tumor-intrinsic Hippo pathway positively correlates with the expression of MHC class I APP genes and the abundance of CD8+ CTLs in mouse tumors and patients. Blocking the Hippo pathway effector Yes-associated protein/transcriptional enhanced associate domain (YAP/TEAD) potently improves antitumor immunity. Mechanistically, the YAP/TEAD complex cooperates with the nucleosome remodeling and deacetylase complex to repress NLRC5 transcription. The upregulation of NLRC5 by YAP/TEAD depletion or pharmacological inhibition increases the expression of MHC class I APP genes and enhances CD8+ CTL-mediated killing of cancer cells. Collectively, our results suggest a crucial tumor-promoting function of YAP depending on NLRC5 to impair the MHC class I APP pathway and provide a rationale for inhibiting YAP activity in immunotherapy for cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linyuan Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Liang Zhou
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Regional Immunity and Diseases, Cancer Research Center, Department of Pharmacology, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Huan Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Regional Immunity and Diseases, Cancer Research Center, Department of Pharmacology, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Su Li
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Kai Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Mei Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Xiaoyu Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Danlan Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Regional Immunity and Diseases, Cancer Research Center, Department of Pharmacology, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Siliang Xiang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Yajun Duan
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Tianzhi Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Chunmeng Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Pharmaceutical Preparations and Excipients, School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Chen Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Desheng Lu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Regional Immunity and Diseases, Cancer Research Center, Department of Pharmacology, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen 518055, China.
| | - Minxian Qian
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China.
| | - Zhongyuan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China.
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7
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Zhou J, Li L, Wu B, Feng Z, Lu Y, Wang Z. MST1/2: Important regulators of Hippo pathway in immune system associated diseases. Cancer Lett 2024; 587:216736. [PMID: 38369002 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
The Hippo signaling pathway is first found in Drosophila and is highly conserved in evolution. Previous studies on this pathway in mammals have revealed its key role in cell proliferation and differentiation, organ size control, and carcinogenesis. Apart from these, recent findings indicate that mammalian Ste20-like kinases 1 and 2 (MST1/2) have significant effects on immune regulation. In this review, we summarize the updated understanding of how MST1/2 affect the regulation of the immune system and the specific mechanism. The effect of MST1/2 on immune cells and its role in the tumor immune microenvironment can alter the body's response to tumor cells. The relationship between MST1/2 and the immune system suggests new directions in the manipulation of immune responses for clinical immunotherapy, especially for tumor treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Zhou
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Xuhui Central Hospital and Department of Anatomy and Histoembrvology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Lanfang Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Xuhui Central Hospital and Department of Anatomy and Histoembrvology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Baojin Wu
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, No.12 Wulumuqi Zhong Road, Jing'an District, Shanghai, 200040, China
| | - Zhen Feng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Xuhui Central Hospital and Department of Anatomy and Histoembrvology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Ying Lu
- Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine of the Ministry of Education, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Zuoyun Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai Xuhui Central Hospital and Department of Anatomy and Histoembrvology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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8
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Gao Y, Gong Y, Lu J, Hao H, Shi X. Targeting YAP1 to improve the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors in liver cancer: mechanism and strategy. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1377722. [PMID: 38550587 PMCID: PMC10972981 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1377722] [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: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer is the third leading of tumor death, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC). Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are yielding much for sufferers to hope for patients, but only some patients with advanced liver tumor respond. Recent research showed that tumor microenvironment (TME) is critical for the effectiveness of ICIs in advanced liver tumor. Meanwhile, metabolic reprogramming of liver tumor leads to immunosuppression in TME. These suggest that regulating the abnormal metabolism of liver tumor cells and firing up TME to turn "cold tumor" into "hot tumor" are potential strategies to improve the therapeutic effect of ICIs in liver tumor. Previous studies have found that YAP1 is a potential target to improve the efficacy of anti-PD-1 in HCC. Here, we review that YAP1 promotes immunosuppression of TME, mainly due to the overstimulation of cytokines in TME by YAP1. Subsequently, we studied the effects of YAP1 on metabolic reprogramming in liver tumor cells, including glycolysis, gluconeogenesis, lipid metabolism, arachidonic acid metabolism, and amino acid metabolism. Lastly, we summarized the existing drugs targeting YAP1 in the treatment of liver tumor, including some medicines from natural sources, which have the potential to improve the efficacy of ICIs in the treatment of liver tumor. This review contributed to the application of targeted YAP1 for combined therapy with ICIs in liver tumor patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuting Gao
- Laboratory of Integrated Medicine Tumor Immunology, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Taiyuan, China
| | - Yi Gong
- Laboratory of Integrated Medicine Tumor Immunology, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Taiyuan, China
| | - Junlan Lu
- Laboratory of Integrated Medicine Tumor Immunology, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Taiyuan, China
| | - Huiqin Hao
- Chinese Medicine Gene Expression Regulation Laboratory, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Taiyuan, China
- Basic Laboratory of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Taiyuan, China
| | - Xinli Shi
- Laboratory of Integrated Medicine Tumor Immunology, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Taiyuan, China
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9
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Longmate WM, Norton E, Duarte GA, Wu L, DiPersio MR, Lamar JM, DiPersio CM. Keratinocyte integrin α3β1 induces expression of the macrophage stimulating factor, CSF-1, through a YAP/TEAD-dependent mechanism. Matrix Biol 2024; 127:48-56. [PMID: 38340968 PMCID: PMC10923166 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2024.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
The development of wound therapy targeting integrins is hampered by inadequate understanding of integrin function in cutaneous wound healing and the wound microenvironment. Following cutaneous injury, keratinocytes migrate to restore the skin barrier, and macrophages aid in debris clearance. Thus, both keratinocytes and macrophages are critical to the coordination of tissue repair. Keratinocyte integrins have been shown to participate in this coordinated effort by regulating secreted factors, some of which crosstalk to distinct cells in the wound microenvironment. Epidermal integrin α3β1 is a receptor for laminin-332 in the cutaneous basement membrane. Here we show that wounds deficient in epidermal α3β1 express less epidermal-derived macrophage colony-stimulating factor 1 (CSF-1), the primary macrophage-stimulating growth factor. α3β1-deficient wounds also have fewer wound-proximal macrophages, suggesting that keratinocyte α3β1 may stimulate wound macrophages through the regulation of CSF-1. Indeed, using a set of immortalized keratinocytes, we demonstrate that keratinocyte-derived CSF-1 supports macrophage growth, and that α3β1 regulates Csf1 expression through Src-dependent stimulation of Yes-associated protein (YAP)-Transcriptional enhanced associate domain (TEAD)-mediated transcription. Consistently, α3β1-deficient wounds in vivo display a substantially reduced number of keratinocytes with YAP-positive nuclei. Overall, our current findings identify a novel role for epidermal integrin α3β1 in regulating the cutaneous wound microenvironment by mediating paracrine crosstalk from keratinocytes to wound macrophages, implicating α3β1 as a potential target of wound therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Whitney M Longmate
- Department of Surgery, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY 12208, USA; Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY 12208, USA
| | - Emily Norton
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY 12208, USA
| | - Giesse Albeche Duarte
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY 12208, USA
| | - Lei Wu
- Department of Surgery, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY 12208, USA
| | - Mathieu R DiPersio
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY 12208, USA
| | - John M Lamar
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY 12208, USA
| | - C Michael DiPersio
- Department of Surgery, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY 12208, USA; Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY 12208, USA.
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10
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Zhang H, Yin M, Hu Y, Jiang M, Lu M, Wu Y. Prognostic analysis of Yes-associated protein 1 in patients with colorectal cancer. A systematic review and meta-analysis. REVISTA ESPANOLA DE ENFERMEDADES DIGESTIVAS 2024; 116:148-156. [PMID: 36177818 DOI: 10.17235/reed.2022.8472/2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND colorectal cancer (CRC) is the most common carcinoma worldwide, but a lack of effective prognostic markers limits clinical diagnosis and treatment. Yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1) is an effector of the HIPPO-pathway, which plays a critical role in cancer development and prognosis, including CRC. However, previous reports have suggested that it plays a dual role in CRC. METHODS a meta-analysis using RevMan 5.4 and Stata 14.0 was performed to evaluate the relationship between YAP1 and clinical outcomes of CRC, after searching for eligible studies in the PubMed, Web of Science and Embase databases. Online datasets GEPIA and LOGpc were also used to calculate survival results and for comparison with the meta-analysis results. Besides, "DESeq" packages were used for the expression analysis of YAP1 from the TCGA dataset. RESULTS YAP1 was overexpressed in the cancer tissues when compared to normal tissues in patients with CRC from the TCGA database (p = 0.000164) and GEPIA database. A total of 10 studies involving 2305 patients from the literature were selected. Pooled HR indicated that overexpression of YAP1 was associated with poor clinical outcomes (HR = 1.70, 95 % CI: 1.28-2.26, p = 0.0003). Subgroup analysis showed a clear correlation between overexpression of YAP1 and worse survival rate in Chinese patients (HR = 1.94, 95 % CI: 1.40-2.69, p = 0.0001), nuclear YAP1 overexpression (HR = 2.07, 95 % CI: 1.29-3.31, p = 0.003), 60 months of follow-up (HR = 1.89, 95 % CI: 1.30-2.73, p = 0.0008), IHC test (HR = 1.65, 95 % CI: 1.17-2.33, p = 0.005), IHC combined with other tests (HR = 1.77, 95 % CI: 1.13-2.77, p = 0.01) and multivariate analysis (HR = 1.70, 95 % CI: 1.24-2.31, p = 0.0009). Nevertheless, disease-free survival (DFS) showed no significant results in the patients with CRC in our meta-analysis (HR = 1.38, 95 % CI: 0.51-3.75, p = 0.52) as well as in the GEPIA and LOGpc databases. Meanwhile, YAP1 overexpression was also significantly associated with worse overall survival (OS) in GSE17536, GSE40967, GSE29623 and GSE71187. CONCLUSION YAP1 overexpression is common in CRC tissues. Overexpression of YAP1 in CRC patients, particularly in the nucleus, might be related to shorter OS, maybe in the early stages. YAP1 could serve as a potential predictor of poor prognosis in CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Zhang
- Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital. Kunming Medical University,
| | | | - Yu Hu
- Wuhan Mental Health Center, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University,
| | - Mingming Jiang
- Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital. Kunming Medical University,
| | - Mingliang Lu
- Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital. Kunming Medical University,
| | - Yajuan Wu
- Radiotherapy, The Second Chest Radiotherapy Ward of Shanxi Cancer Hospital, china
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11
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Xu M, Zhao X, Wen T, Qu X. Unveiling the role of KRAS in tumor immune microenvironment. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 171:116058. [PMID: 38171240 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.116058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Kirsten rats sarcoma viral oncogene (KRAS), the first discovered human oncogene, has long been recognized as "undruggable". KRAS mutations frequently occur in multiple human cancers including non-small cell lung cancer(NSCLC), colorectal cancer(CRC) and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma(PDAC), functioning as a "molecule switch" determining the activation of various oncogenic signaling pathways. Except for its intrinsic pro-tumorigenic role, KRAS alteration also exhibits an unique immune signature characterized by elevated PD-L1 level and high tumor mutational burden(TMB). KRAS mutation shape an immune suppressive microenvironment by impeding effective T cells infiltration and recruiting suppressive immune cells including myeloid-derived suppressor cells(MDSCs), regulatory T cells(Tregs), cancer associated fibroblasts(CAFs). In immune checkpoint inhibitor(ICI) era, NSCLC patients with mutated KRAS tend to be more responsive to ICI than patients with intact KRAS. The hallmark for KRAS mutation is the existence of multiple kinds of co-mutations. Different types of co-alterations have distinct tumor microenvironment(TME) signatures and responses to ICI. TP53 co-mutation possess a "hot" TME and achieve higher response to immunotherapy while other loss of function mutation correlated with a "colder" TME and a poor outcome to ICI-based therapy. The groundbreaking discovery of KRAS G12C inhibitors significantly improved outcomes for this KRAS subtype even though efficacy was limited to NSCLC patients. KRAS G12C inhibitors also restore the suppressive TME, creating an opportunity for combinations with ICI. However, an inevitable challenge to KRAS inhibitors is drug resistance. Promising combination strategies such as combination with SHP2 is an approach deserve further exploration because of their immune modulatory effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miao Xu
- Department of Medical Oncology, the First Hospital of China Medical University, 155 North Nanjing Street, Shenyang, Liaoning, China; Key Laboratory of Anticancer Drugs and Biotherapy of Liaoning Provinces, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China; Clinical Cancer Research Center of Shenyang, the First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China; Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Tumors, Ministry of Education, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Xing Zhao
- Department of Pediatrics, the First Hospital of China Medical University, 155 North Nanjing Street, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Ti Wen
- Department of Medical Oncology, the First Hospital of China Medical University, 155 North Nanjing Street, Shenyang, Liaoning, China; Key Laboratory of Anticancer Drugs and Biotherapy of Liaoning Provinces, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China; Clinical Cancer Research Center of Shenyang, the First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China; Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Tumors, Ministry of Education, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Xiujuan Qu
- Department of Medical Oncology, the First Hospital of China Medical University, 155 North Nanjing Street, Shenyang, Liaoning, China; Key Laboratory of Anticancer Drugs and Biotherapy of Liaoning Provinces, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China; Clinical Cancer Research Center of Shenyang, the First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China; Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Tumors, Ministry of Education, Shenyang, Liaoning, China.
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12
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Loeuillard EJ, Li B, Stumpf HE, Yang J, Willhite JR, Tomlinson JL, Rohakhtar FR, Simon VA, Graham RP, Smoot RL, Dong H, Ilyas SI. Noncanonical TRAIL Signaling Promotes Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cell Abundance and Tumor Growth in Cholangiocarcinoma. Cell Mol Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024; 17:853-876. [PMID: 38219900 PMCID: PMC10981132 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmgh.2024.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Proapoptotic tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) signaling as a cause of cancer cell death is a well-established mechanism. However, TRAIL-receptor (TRAIL-R) agonists have had very limited anticancer activity in human beings, challenging the concept of TRAIL as a potent anticancer agent. Herein, we aimed to define mechanisms by which TRAIL+ cancer cells can leverage noncanonical TRAIL signaling in myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) promoting their abundance in murine cholangiocarcinoma (CCA). METHODS Multiple immunocompetent syngeneic, orthotopic models of CCA were used. Single-cell RNA sequencing and cellular indexing of transcriptomes and epitopes by sequencing of CD45+ cells in murine tumors from the different CCA models was conducted. RESULTS In multiple immunocompetent murine models of CCA, implantation of TRAIL+ murine cancer cells into Trail-r-/- mice resulted in a significant reduction in tumor volumes compared with wild-type mice. Tumor-bearing Trail-r-/- mice had a significant decrease in the abundance of MDSCs owing to attenuation of MDSC proliferation. Noncanonical TRAIL signaling with consequent nuclear factor-κB activation in MDSCs facilitated enhanced MDSC proliferation. Single-cell RNA sequencing and cellular indexing of transcriptomes and epitopes by sequencing of immune cells from murine tumors showed enrichment of a nuclear factor-κB activation signature in MDSCs. Moreover, MDSCs were resistant to TRAIL-mediated apoptosis owing to enhanced expression of cellular FLICE inhibitory protein, an inhibitor of proapoptotic TRAIL signaling. Accordingly, cellular FLICE inhibitory protein knockdown sensitized murine MDSCs to TRAIL-mediated apoptosis. Finally, cancer cell-restricted deletion of Trail significantly reduced MDSC abundance and murine tumor burden. CONCLUSIONS Our findings highlight the therapeutic potential of targeting TRAIL+ cancer cells for treatment of a poorly immunogenic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilien J Loeuillard
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Binbin Li
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Hannah E Stumpf
- Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Jingchun Yang
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Jessica R Willhite
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Jennifer L Tomlinson
- Department of Surgery, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, Minnesota
| | | | | | - Rondell P Graham
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Rory L Smoot
- Department of Surgery, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, Minnesota; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Haidong Dong
- Department of Immunology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, Minnesota; Department of Urology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Sumera I Ilyas
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, Minnesota; Department of Immunology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, Minnesota.
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13
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Zhou W, Lim A, Edderkaoui M, Osipov A, Wu H, Wang Q, Pandol S. Role of YAP Signaling in Regulation of Programmed Cell Death and Drug Resistance in Cancer. Int J Biol Sci 2024; 20:15-28. [PMID: 38164167 PMCID: PMC10750275 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.83586] [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: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Although recent advances in cancer treatment significantly improved the prognosis of patients, drug resistance remains a major challenge. Targeting programmed cell death is a major approach of antitumor drug development. Deregulation of programmed cell death (PCD) contributes to resistance to a variety of cancer therapeutics. Yes-associated protein (YAP) and its paralog TAZ, the main downstream effectors of the Hippo pathway, are aberrantly activated in a variety of human malignancies. The Hippo-YAP pathway, which was originally identified in Drosophila, is well conserved in humans and plays a defining role in regulation of cell fate, tissue growth and regeneration. Activation of YAP signaling has emerged as a key mechanism involved in promoting cancer cell proliferation, metastasis, and drug resistance. Understanding the role of YAP/TAZ signaling network in PCD and drug resistance could facilitate the development of effective strategies for cancer therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhou
- Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Adrian Lim
- Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Mouad Edderkaoui
- Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Arsen Osipov
- Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Heshui Wu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Qiang Wang
- Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Stephen Pandol
- Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
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14
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Sun Y, Jin X, Meng J, Guo F, Chen T, Zhao X, Wu H, Ren D. MST2 methylation by PRMT5 inhibits Hippo signaling and promotes pancreatic cancer progression. EMBO J 2023; 42:e114558. [PMID: 37905571 PMCID: PMC10690468 DOI: 10.15252/embj.2023114558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The Hippo signaling axis is a tumor suppressor pathway that is activated by various extra-pathway factors to regulate cell differentiation and organ development. Recent studies have reported that autophosphorylation of the core kinase cassette stimulates activation of the Hippo signaling cascade. Here, we demonstrate that protein arginine methyltransferase 5 (PRMT5) contributes to inactivation of the Hippo signaling pathway in pancreatic cancer. We show that the Hippo pathway initiator serine/threonine kinase 3 (STK3, also known as MST2) of Hippo signaling pathway can be symmetrically di-methylated by PRMT5 at arginine-461 (R461) and arginine-467 (R467) in its SARAH domain. Methylation suppresses MST2 autophosphorylation and kinase activity by blocking its homodimerization, thereby inactivating Hippo signaling pathway in pancreatic cancer. Moreover, we also show that the specific PRMT5 inhibitor GSK3326595 re-activates the dysregulated Hippo signaling pathway and inhibits the growth of human pancreatic cancer xenografts in immunodeficient mice, thus suggesting potential clinical application of PRMT5 inhibitors in pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Sun
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- Sino‐German Laboratory of Personalized Medicine for Pancreatic Cancer, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Xin Jin
- Department of Urology, The Second Xiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaChina
- Uro‐Oncology Institute of Central South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Junpeng Meng
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- Sino‐German Laboratory of Personalized Medicine for Pancreatic Cancer, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- Department of General SurgeryThe Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical UniversityTaiyuanChina
| | - Feng Guo
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- Sino‐German Laboratory of Personalized Medicine for Pancreatic Cancer, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Taoyu Chen
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- Sino‐German Laboratory of Personalized Medicine for Pancreatic Cancer, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Xiaoyan Zhao
- Department of Hematology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Heshui Wu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- Sino‐German Laboratory of Personalized Medicine for Pancreatic Cancer, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
| | - Dianyun Ren
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
- Sino‐German Laboratory of Personalized Medicine for Pancreatic Cancer, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical CollegeHuazhong University of Science and TechnologyWuhanChina
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15
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Liu Y, An Y, Li G, Wang S. Regulatory mechanism of macrophage polarization based on Hippo pathway. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1279591. [PMID: 38090595 PMCID: PMC10715437 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1279591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Macrophages are found to infiltrate and migrate in a large number of Tumor-associated macrophages (TMEs) and other macrophages in the microenvironment of tumors and related diseases, and undergo phenotypic changes in response to a variety of cytokines, mainly including the primary phenotype M2 and the anti-tumor phenotype M1. The Hippo signaling pathway affects the development of cancer and other diseases through various biological processes, such as inhibition of cell growth. In this review, we focus on immune cells within the microenvironment of tumors and other diseases, and the role of the Hippo pathway in tumors on macrophage polarization in the tumor microenvironment (TME) and other diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanqing Liu
- The Clinical Department, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Yina An
- The Clinical Department, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Gebin Li
- The Clinical Department, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Shuaiyu Wang
- The Clinical Department, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
- Center of Research and Innovation of Chinese Traditional Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
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16
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Zhao Y, Sheldon M, Sun Y, Ma L. New Insights into YAP/TAZ-TEAD-Mediated Gene Regulation and Biological Processes in Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5497. [PMID: 38067201 PMCID: PMC10705714 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15235497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The Hippo pathway is conserved across species. Key mammalian Hippo pathway kinases, including MST1/2 and LATS1/2, inhibit cellular growth by inactivating the TEAD coactivators, YAP, and TAZ. Extensive research has illuminated the roles of Hippo signaling in cancer, development, and regeneration. Notably, dysregulation of Hippo pathway components not only contributes to tumor growth and metastasis, but also renders tumors resistant to therapies. This review delves into recent research on YAP/TAZ-TEAD-mediated gene regulation and biological processes in cancer. We focus on several key areas: newly identified molecular patterns of YAP/TAZ activation, emerging mechanisms that contribute to metastasis and cancer therapy resistance, unexpected roles in tumor suppression, and advances in therapeutic strategies targeting this pathway. Moreover, we provide an updated view of YAP/TAZ's biological functions, discuss ongoing controversies, and offer perspectives on specific debated topics in this rapidly evolving field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Zhao
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (Y.Z.); (M.S.)
| | - Marisela Sheldon
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (Y.Z.); (M.S.)
| | - Yutong Sun
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
| | - Li Ma
- Department of Experimental Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (Y.Z.); (M.S.)
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Houston Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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17
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Shen X, Li Q, Sun Y, Chen L, Xue F, Tian W, Wang Y. The Hippo pathway in endometrial cancer: a potential therapeutic target? Front Oncol 2023; 13:1273345. [PMID: 37927473 PMCID: PMC10625429 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1273345] [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: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometrial cancer, one of the most prevalent malignant cancers tumors of the female reproductive tract, has been increasing in incidence and mortality rates around the world. The Hippo pathway, one of the eight traditional human cancer signaling pathways, is an intricate signaling network that regulates cell proliferation, differentiation, and migration as well as restricting organ size in response to a range of intracellular and extracellular signals. Inhibiting the Hippo pathway results in aberrant activation of its downstream core component YAP/TAZ, which can enhance cancer cells' metabolism and maintain their stemness. Additionally, the Hippo pathway can modulate the tumor microenvironment and induce drug resistance, where tumorigenesis and tumor progression occur. However, the Hippo pathway has been little researched in endometrial cancer. Here, we aim to review how the Hippo pathway contributes to the onset, development and the potential treatment of endometrial cancer with the aim of providing new therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyun Shen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Qianqian Li
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Yiqing Sun
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Lingli Chen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Fengxia Xue
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Wenyan Tian
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Yingmei Wang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
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18
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Ogata H, Higasa K, Kageyama Y, Tahara H, Shimamoto A, Takekita Y, Koshikawa Y, Nonen S, Kato T, Kinoshita T, Kato M. Relationship between circulating mitochondrial DNA and microRNA in patients with major depression. J Affect Disord 2023; 339:538-546. [PMID: 37467797 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2023.07.073] [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: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND MicroRNAs (miRNAs) and circulating cell-free mitochondrial DNA (ccf-mtDNA) have attracted interest as biological markers of affective disorders. In response to stress, it is known that miRNAs in mitochondria diffuse out of the cytoplasm alongside mtDNA; however, this process has not yet been identified. We hypothesized that miRNAs derived from specific cell nuclei cause mitochondrial damage and mtDNA fragmentation under MDD-associated stress conditions. METHODS A comprehensive analysis of the plasma miRNA levels and quantification of the plasma ccf-mtDNA copy number were performed in 69 patients with depression to determine correlations and identify genes and pathways interacting with miRNAs. The patients were randomly assigned to receive either selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) or mirtazapine. Their therapeutic efficacy over four weeks was evaluated in relation to miRNAs correlated with ccf-mtDNA copy number. RESULTS The expression levels of the five miRNAs showed a significant positive correlation with the ccf-mtDNA copy number after correcting for multiple testing. These miRNAs are involved in gene expression related to thyroid hormone synthesis, the Hippo signaling pathway, vasopressin-regulated water reabsorption, and lysine degradation. Of these five miRNAs, miR-6068 and miR-4708-3p were significantly associated with the SSRI and mirtazapine treatment outcomes, respectively. LIMITATIONS This study did not show comparison with a healthy group. CONCLUSIONS The expression levels of specific miRNAs were associated with ccf-mtDNA copy number in untreated depressed patients; moreover, these miRNAs were linked to antidepressant treatment outcomes. These findings are expected to lead to the elucidation of new pathological mechanism of depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haruhiko Ogata
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Kansai Medical University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Koichiro Higasa
- Institute of Biomedical Science, Department of Genome Analysis, Kansai Medical University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yuki Kageyama
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka Metropolitan University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hidetoshi Tahara
- Graduate School of Biomedical & Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Akira Shimamoto
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sanyo-Onoda City University, Sanyo Onoda, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | | | - Yosuke Koshikawa
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Kansai Medical University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Shinpei Nonen
- Department of Pharmacy, Hyogo University of Health Sciences, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Tadafumi Kato
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Science, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Masaki Kato
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Kansai Medical University, Osaka, Japan.
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19
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Fard D, Giraudo E, Tamagnone L. Mind the (guidance) signals! Translational relevance of semaphorins, plexins, and neuropilins in pancreatic cancer. Trends Mol Med 2023; 29:817-829. [PMID: 37598000 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2023.07.009] [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: 06/24/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is a major cause of demise worldwide. Although key associated genetic changes have been discovered, disease progression is sustained by pathogenic mechanisms that are poorly understood at the molecular level. In particular, the tissue microenvironment of pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is usually characterized by high stromal content, scarce recruitment of immune cells, and the presence of neuronal fibers. Semaphorins and their receptors, plexins and neuropilins, comprise a wide family of regulatory signals that control neurons, endothelial and immune cells, embryo development, and normal tissue homeostasis, as well as the microenvironment of human tumors. We focus on the role of these molecular signals in pancreatic cancer progression, as revealed by experimental research and clinical studies, including novel approaches for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damon Fard
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Rome, Italy
| | - Enrico Giraudo
- Department of Science and Drug Technology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy; Candiolo Cancer Institute, FPO IRCCS, Candiolo, Turin, Italy
| | - Luca Tamagnone
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Rome, Italy; Fondazione Policlinico Gemelli, IRCCS, Rome, Italy.
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20
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Liu C, Song Y, Li D, Wang B. Regulation of the tumor immune microenvironment by the Hippo Pathway: Implications for cancer immunotherapy. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 122:110586. [PMID: 37393838 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
The tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) is a dynamic and complex ecosystem consisting of immune cells, stromal cells, and tumor cells. It plays a crucial role in shaping cancer progression and treatment outcomes. Notably, tumor-associated immune cells are key regulators within the TIME, influencing immune responses and therapeutic efficacy. The Hippo pathway is a critical signaling pathway involved in the TIME and cancer progression. In this review, we provide an overview of the Hippo pathway's role in the TIME, focusing on its interactions with immune cells and their implications in cancer biology and therapy. Specifically, we discuss the involvement of the Hippo pathway in regulating T-cell function, macrophage polarization, B-cell differentiation, MDSC activity, and dendritic cell-mediated immune responses. Furthermore, we explore its influence on PD-L1 expression in lymphocytes and its potential as a therapeutic target. While recent progress has been made in understanding the Hippo pathway's molecular mechanisms, challenges remain in deciphering its context-dependent effects in different cancers and identifying predictive biomarkers for targeted therapies. By elucidating the intricate crosstalk between the Hippo pathway and the TME, we aim to contribute to the development of innovative strategies for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, the First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, PR China.
| | - Yang Song
- Geriatrics Center, Fourth People's Hospital of Shenyang, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, P.R. China.
| | - DeMing Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, PR China.
| | - Biao Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Life Sciences of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, PR China.
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21
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Zhang Y, Liu X, Dang W, Liu L. Thymoquinone inhibits lung cancer stem cell properties via triggering YAP degradation. Carcinogenesis 2023; 44:426-435. [PMID: 37105709 DOI: 10.1093/carcin/bgad026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2022] [Revised: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Due to the characteristics of high recurrence and metastasis, it is still difficult to cure lung cancer. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a group of tumor cells with self-renewal ability and differentiation potential, which are responsible for lung cancer recurrence. Therefore, targeting CSCs may provide a new strategy for lung cancer treatment. Thymoquinone (TQ), the main active ingredient isolated from black seed oil, has shown significant anti-cancer effects in various cancers. However, the effect of TQ on lung cancer stem cells (LCSCs) has never been clarified. In the present study, we successfully separated and enriched lung cancer tumorsphere cells. Our data showed that TQ significantly inhibited the stem-like properties of LCSCs. In addition, we found TQ promoted Yes-associated protein (YAP) phosphorylation and ubiquitination, and the inhibitory effects of TQ on LCSCs could be enhanced by silencing YAP. Taken together, these results suggest that TQ, functions by targeting YAP, may be a potential therapeutic agent against lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujiao Zhang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xizhi Liu
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Wenhui Dang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Lu Liu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Xi'an Aerospace General Hospital, Xi'an, China
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22
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Zhuang Y, Wang Y, Liu C, Li S, Du S, Li G. Yes-Associated Protein 1 Inhibition Induces Immunogenic Cell Death and Synergizes With Radiation and PD-1 Blockade. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2023; 116:894-905. [PMID: 36608830 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2022.12.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Danger signals released by ionizing radiation (IR) can theoretically stimulate immune activation in the tumor environment (TME), but IR alone is not sufficient to induce an effective immune response in clinical practice. In this study, we investigated whether inhibition of yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1) could induce immunogenic cell death (ICD) and whether the combination of YAP1 inhibition with IR could increase in vivo immune infiltration and thereby boost a tumor response to immunotherapy. METHODS AND MATERIALS First, the expression of ICD markers, markers of T-cell activation, and key proteins involved in innate immune signaling were measured after YAP1 inhibition. Next, the expression level of YAP1 protein was measured after different doses of IR. Then, the antitumor effect of YAP1 inhibition combined with IR was investigated in vivo, and the immune status of the TME was evaluated. Finally, the efficacy of a triple therapy including YAP1 inhibition combined with IR and programmed cell death protein 1 blockade in the treatment of resistant tumors was determined. RESULTS We found that YAP1 inhibition induced ICD and increased the levels of antigen presentation machinery, effectively causing the activation of T cells. Mechanistically, YAP1 inhibition induced cell DNA damage and activated the cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)/stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway. Surprisingly, IR upregulated YAP1 expression. IR combined with YAP1 inhibition significantly inhibited cancer growth and prolonged survival, which was related to the augmented infiltration, activation, and function of CD8+ T cells in the TME. Moreover, the addition of YAP1 inhibition significantly improved the efficacy of pancreatic cancer treatment when neither radiation nor programmed cell death protein 1 inhibitors were ideal. CONCLUSIONS YAP1 inhibition could trigger ICD and is a potential approach to potentiating the therapeutic efficacy of radiation therapy and anti-PD1 immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Zhuang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yuzi Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China; Proton Medical Research Center, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Chang Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Sihan Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Shuyan Du
- Department of Central Laboratory, First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Guang Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
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23
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Loeuillard E, Li B, Stumpf HE, Yang J, Willhite J, Tomlinson JL, Wang J, Rohakhtar FR, Simon VA, Graham RP, Smoot RL, Dong H, Ilyas SI. Noncanonical TRAIL Signaling Promotes Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cell Abundance and Tumor Progression in Cholangiocarcinoma. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.05.24.541931. [PMID: 37293061 PMCID: PMC10245899 DOI: 10.1101/2023.05.24.541931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Proapoptotic tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) signaling as a cause of cancer cell death is a well-established mechanism. However, TRAIL-receptor (TRAIL-R) agonists have had very limited anticancer activity in humans, challenging the concept of TRAIL as a potent anticancer agent. Herein, we demonstrate that TRAIL + cancer cells can leverage noncanonical TRAIL signaling in myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) promoting their abundance in murine cholangiocarcinoma (CCA). In multiple immunocompetent syngeneic, orthotopic murine models of CCA, implantation of TRAIL + murine cancer cells into Trail-r -/- mice resulted in a significant reduction in tumor volumes compared to wild type mice. Tumor bearing Trail-r -/- mice had a significant decrease in the abundance of MDSCs due to attenuation of MDSC proliferation. Noncanonical TRAIL signaling with consequent NF-κB activation in MDSCs facilitated enhanced MDSC proliferation. Single cell RNA sequencing and cellular indexing of transcriptomes and epitopes by sequencing (CITE-Seq) of CD45 + cells in murine tumors from three distinct immunocompetent CCA models demonstrated a significant enrichment of an NF-κB activation signature in MDSCs. Moreover, MDSCs were resistant to TRAIL-mediated apoptosis due to enhanced expression of cellular FLICE inhibitory protein (cFLIP), an inhibitor of proapoptotic TRAIL signaling. Accordingly, cFLIP knockdown sensitized murine MDSCs to TRAIL-mediated apoptosis. Finally, cancer cell-restricted deletion of Trail significantly reduced MDSC abundance and murine tumor burden. In summary, our findings define a noncanonical TRAIL signal in MDSCs and highlight the therapeutic potential of targeting TRAIL + cancer cells for the treatment of a poorly immunogenic cancer.
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24
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Otegui N, Houry M, Arozarena I, Serrano D, Redin E, Exposito F, Leon S, Valencia K, Montuenga L, Calvo A. Cancer Cell-Intrinsic Alterations Associated with an Immunosuppressive Tumor Microenvironment and Resistance to Immunotherapy in Lung Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3076. [PMID: 37370686 PMCID: PMC10295869 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15123076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the great clinical success of immunotherapy in lung cancer patients, only a small percentage of them (<40%) will benefit from this therapy alone or combined with other strategies. Cancer cell-intrinsic and cell-extrinsic mechanisms have been associated with a lack of response to immunotherapy. The present study is focused on cancer cell-intrinsic genetic, epigenetic, transcriptomic and metabolic alterations that reshape the tumor microenvironment (TME) and determine response or refractoriness to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). Mutations in KRAS, SKT11(LKB1), KEAP1 and TP53 and co-mutations of these genes are the main determinants of ICI response in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. Recent insights into metabolic changes in cancer cells that impose restrictions on cytotoxic T cells and the efficacy of ICIs indicate that targeting such metabolic restrictions may favor therapeutic responses. Other emerging pathways for therapeutic interventions include epigenetic modulators and DNA damage repair (DDR) pathways, especially in small-cell lung cancer (SCLC). Therefore, the many potential pathways for enhancing the effect of ICIs suggest that, in a few years, we will have much more personalized medicine for lung cancer patients treated with immunotherapy. Such strategies could include vaccines and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nerea Otegui
- CCUN Cancer Center and Program in Solid Tumors, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (N.O.); (M.H.); (D.S.); (S.L.); (K.V.); (L.M.)
- Department of Pathology, Anatomy and Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Maeva Houry
- CCUN Cancer Center and Program in Solid Tumors, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (N.O.); (M.H.); (D.S.); (S.L.); (K.V.); (L.M.)
- Department of Pathology, Anatomy and Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Imanol Arozarena
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain;
- Cancer Signaling Unit, Navarrabiomed, University Hospital of Navarra (HUN), Public University of Navarra (UPNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Diego Serrano
- CCUN Cancer Center and Program in Solid Tumors, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (N.O.); (M.H.); (D.S.); (S.L.); (K.V.); (L.M.)
- Department of Pathology, Anatomy and Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Esther Redin
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA;
| | - Francisco Exposito
- Yale Cancer Center, New Haven, CT 06519, USA;
- Department of Pathology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Sergio Leon
- CCUN Cancer Center and Program in Solid Tumors, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (N.O.); (M.H.); (D.S.); (S.L.); (K.V.); (L.M.)
- Department of Pathology, Anatomy and Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Karmele Valencia
- CCUN Cancer Center and Program in Solid Tumors, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (N.O.); (M.H.); (D.S.); (S.L.); (K.V.); (L.M.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), ISCIII, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Luis Montuenga
- CCUN Cancer Center and Program in Solid Tumors, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (N.O.); (M.H.); (D.S.); (S.L.); (K.V.); (L.M.)
- Department of Pathology, Anatomy and Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain;
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), ISCIII, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Alfonso Calvo
- CCUN Cancer Center and Program in Solid Tumors, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain; (N.O.); (M.H.); (D.S.); (S.L.); (K.V.); (L.M.)
- Department of Pathology, Anatomy and Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IDISNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain;
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Cáncer (CIBERONC), ISCIII, 28029 Madrid, Spain
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25
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Liang L, Xu W, Shen A, Fu X, Cen H, Wang S, Lin Z, Zhang L, Lin F, Zhang X, Zhou N, Chang J, Chen Z, Li C, Yu X. Inhibition of YAP1 activity ameliorates acute lung injury through promotion of M2 macrophage polarization. MedComm (Beijing) 2023; 4:e293. [PMID: 37287755 PMCID: PMC10242261 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The balance of M1/M2 macrophage polarization plays an important role in regulating inflammation during acute lung injury (ALI). Yes-associated protein (YAP1) is a key protein in the Hippo-YAP1 signaling pathway and is involved in macrophage polarization. We aimed to determine the role of YAP1 in pulmonary inflammation following ALI and regulation of M1/M2 polarization. Pulmonary inflammation and injury with upregulation of YAP1 were observed in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced ALI. The YAP1 inhibitor, verteporfin, attenuated pulmonary inflammation and improved lung function in ALI mice. Moreover, verteporfin promoted M2 polarization and inhibited M1 polarization in the lung tissues of ALI mice and LPS-treated bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMMs). Additionally, siRNA knockdown confirmed that silencing Yap1 decreased chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2) expression and promoted M2 polarization, whereas silencing large tumor suppressor 1 (Lats1) increased CCL2 expression and induced M1 polarization in LPS-treated BMMs. To investigate the role of inflammatory macrophages in ALI mice, we performed single-cell RNA sequencing of macrophages isolated from the lungs. Thus, verteporfin could activate the immune-inflammatory response, promote the potential of M2 macrophages, and alleviate LPS-induced ALI. Our results reveal a novel mechanism where YAP1-mediated M2 polarization alleviates ALI. Therefore, inhibition of YAP1 may be a target for the treatment of ALI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Liang
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical PharmacologyThe State & NMPA Key Laboratory of Respiratory DiseaseSchool of Pharmaceutical Sciences & The Fifth Affiliated HospitalGuangzhou Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Wenyan Xu
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical PharmacologyThe State & NMPA Key Laboratory of Respiratory DiseaseSchool of Pharmaceutical Sciences & The Fifth Affiliated HospitalGuangzhou Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Ao Shen
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical PharmacologyThe State & NMPA Key Laboratory of Respiratory DiseaseSchool of Pharmaceutical Sciences & The Fifth Affiliated HospitalGuangzhou Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Xiaomei Fu
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical PharmacologyThe State & NMPA Key Laboratory of Respiratory DiseaseSchool of Pharmaceutical Sciences & The Fifth Affiliated HospitalGuangzhou Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Huiyu Cen
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical PharmacologyThe State & NMPA Key Laboratory of Respiratory DiseaseSchool of Pharmaceutical Sciences & The Fifth Affiliated HospitalGuangzhou Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Siran Wang
- Department of Preventive DentistryAffiliated Stomatology Hospital of Guangzhou Medical UniversityGuangdong Engineering Research Center of Oral Restoration and ReconstructionGuangzhou Key Laboratory of Basic and Applied Research of Oral Regenerative MedicineGuangzhouChina
| | - Zhongxiao Lin
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical PharmacologyThe State & NMPA Key Laboratory of Respiratory DiseaseSchool of Pharmaceutical Sciences & The Fifth Affiliated HospitalGuangzhou Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese MedicineMacau University of Science and TechnologyAvenida WailongTaipaMacauChina
| | - Lingmin Zhang
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical PharmacologyThe State & NMPA Key Laboratory of Respiratory DiseaseSchool of Pharmaceutical Sciences & The Fifth Affiliated HospitalGuangzhou Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Fangyu Lin
- Department of OphthalmologyB5500 Clinic B1365B Clifton Road NEEmory UniversityAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | - Xin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese MedicineMacau University of Science and TechnologyAvenida WailongTaipaMacauChina
| | - Na Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese MedicineMacau University of Science and TechnologyAvenida WailongTaipaMacauChina
| | - Jishuo Chang
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical PharmacologyThe State & NMPA Key Laboratory of Respiratory DiseaseSchool of Pharmaceutical Sciences & The Fifth Affiliated HospitalGuangzhou Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Zhe‐Sheng Chen
- Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesInstitute for BiotechnologyCollege of Pharmacy and Health SciencesSt. John's UniversityQueensNew YorkUSA
| | - Chuwen Li
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical PharmacologyThe State & NMPA Key Laboratory of Respiratory DiseaseSchool of Pharmaceutical Sciences & The Fifth Affiliated HospitalGuangzhou Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Xiyong Yu
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical PharmacologyThe State & NMPA Key Laboratory of Respiratory DiseaseSchool of Pharmaceutical Sciences & The Fifth Affiliated HospitalGuangzhou Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
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26
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Neil E, Kouskoff V. Current Model Systems for Investigating Epithelioid Haemangioendothelioma. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15113005. [PMID: 37296967 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15113005] [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: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Epithelioid haemangioendothelioma (EHE) is a rare sarcoma of the vascular endothelium with an unpredictable disease course. EHE tumours can remain indolent for long period of time but may suddenly evolve into an aggressive disease with widespread metastases and a poor prognosis. Two mutually exclusive chromosomal translocations define EHE tumours, each involving one of the transcription co-factors TAZ and YAP. The TAZ-CAMTA1 fusion protein results from a t(1;3) translocation and is present in 90% of EHE tumours. The remaining 10% of EHE cases harbour a t(X;11) translocation, resulting in the YAP1-TFE3 (YT) fusion protein. Until recently, the lack of representative EHE models made it challenging to study the mechanisms by which these fusion proteins promote tumorigenesis. Here, we describe and compare the recently developed experimental approaches that are currently available for studying this cancer. After summarising the key findings obtained with each experimental approach, we discuss the advantages and limitations of these different model systems. Our survey of the current literature shows how each experimental approach can be utilised in different ways to improve our understanding of EHE initiation and progression. Ultimately, this should lead to better treatment options for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Neil
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Valerie Kouskoff
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
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27
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Poh AR, Ernst M. Functional roles of SRC signaling in pancreatic cancer: Recent insights provide novel therapeutic opportunities. Oncogene 2023:10.1038/s41388-023-02701-x. [PMID: 37120696 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-023-02701-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an aggressive malignant disease with a 5-year survival rate of <10%. Aberrant activation or elevated expression of the tyrosine kinase c-SRC (SRC) is frequently observed in PDAC and is associated with a poor prognosis. Preclinical studies have revealed a multifaceted role for SRC activation in PDAC, including promoting chronic inflammation, tumor cell proliferation and survival, cancer cell stemness, desmoplasia, hypoxia, angiogenesis, invasion, metastasis, and drug resistance. Strategies to inhibit SRC signaling include suppressing its catalytic activity, inhibiting protein stability, or by interfering with signaling components of the SRC signaling pathway including suppressing protein interactions of SRC. In this review, we discuss the molecular and immunological mechanisms by which aberrant SRC activity promotes PDAC tumorigenesis. We also provide a comprehensive update of SRC inhibitors in the clinic, and discuss the clinical challenges associated with targeting SRC in pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashleigh R Poh
- Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute and La Trobe University School of Cancer Medicine, Melbourne, VIC, 3084, Australia.
| | - Matthias Ernst
- Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute and La Trobe University School of Cancer Medicine, Melbourne, VIC, 3084, Australia.
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28
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He R, Xu Y, Yu L, Meng N, Wang H, Cui Y, Yam JWP. Extracellular Vesicles Act as Carriers for Cargo Delivery and Regulate Wnt Signaling in the Hepatocellular Carcinoma Tumor Microenvironment. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15072088. [PMID: 37046749 PMCID: PMC10093647 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15072088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
As the primary type of liver cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) causes a large number of deaths every year. Despite extensive research conducted on this disease, the prognosis of HCC remains unclear. Recently, research has largely focused on extracellular vesicles (EVs), and they have been found to participate in various ways in the development of various diseases, including HCC, such as by regulating cell signaling pathways. However, recent studies have reported the mechanisms underlying the regulation of Wnt signaling by EVs in HCC, primarily focusing on the regulation of the canonical pathways. This review summarizes the current literature on the regulation of Wnt signaling by EVs in HCC and their underlying mechanisms. In addition, we also present future research directions in this field. This will deepen the understanding of HCC and provide new ideas for its treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Risheng He
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Yi Xu
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China
- Key Laboratory of Basic Pharmacology of Ministry of Education, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563006, China
- Key Laboratory of Functional and Clinical Translational Medicine, Fujian Province University, Xiamen Medical College, Xiamen 361000, China
- Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Tumor Targeted Nano Diagnostic and Therapeutic Materials, Yancheng Teachers University, Yancheng 224007, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomarkers and In Vitro Diagnosis Translation of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310063, China
- Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Cancer, Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Oncogenomics, Key Laboratory of Chemical Genomics, Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, Shenzhen 518055, China
- Key Laboratory of Intelligent Pharmacy and Individualized Therapy of Huzhou, Department of Pharmacy, Changxing People’s Hospital, Changxing 313000, China
- Department of Pathology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
| | - Liang Yu
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Nanfeng Meng
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Hang Wang
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Yunfu Cui
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Judy Wai Ping Yam
- Department of Pathology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR 999077, China
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29
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Zhu N, Yang R, Wang X, Yuan L, Li X, Wei F, Zhang L. The Hippo signaling pathway: from multiple signals to the hallmarks of cancers. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2023. [PMID: 36942989 DOI: 10.3724/abbs.2023035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Evolutionarily conserved, the Hippo signaling pathway is critical in regulating organ size and tissue homeostasis. The activity of this pathway is tightly regulated under normal circumstances, since its physical function is precisely maintained to control the rate of cell proliferation. Failure of maintenance leads to a variety of tumors. Our understanding of the mechanism of Hippo dysregulation and tumorigenesis is becoming increasingly precise, relying on the emergence of upstream inhibitor or activator and the connection linking Hippo target genes, mutations, and related signaling pathways with phenotypes. In this review, we summarize recent reports on the signaling network of the Hippo pathway in tumorigenesis and progression by exploring its critical mechanisms in cancer biology and potential targeting in cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Zhu
- School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
- Sheng Yushou Center of Cell Biology and Immunology, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Ruizeng Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Xiaodong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Liang Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Xiaoyu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Fang Wei
- Sheng Yushou Center of Cell Biology and Immunology, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
- State Key Laboratory of Cell Biology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
- Sheng Yushou Center of Cell Biology and Immunology, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
- School of Life Science, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
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30
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Murakami S, White SM, McIntosh AT, Nguyen CDK, Yi C. Spontaneously evolved progenitor niches escape Yap oncogene addiction in advanced pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas. Nat Commun 2023; 14:1443. [PMID: 36922511 PMCID: PMC10017707 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-37147-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Lineage plasticity has been proposed as a major source of intratumoral heterogeneity and therapeutic resistance. Here, by employing an inducible genetic engineered mouse model, we illustrate that lineage plasticity enables advanced Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma (PDAC) tumors to develop spontaneous relapse following elimination of the central oncogenic driver - Yap. Transcriptomic and immunohistochemistry analysis of a large panel of PDAC tumors reveals that within high-grade tumors, small niches of PDAC cells gradually evolve to re-activate pluripotent transcription factors (PTFs), which lessen their dependency on Yap. Comprehensive Cut&Tag analysis demonstrate that although acquisition of PTF expression is coupled with the process of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), PTFs form a core transcriptional regulatory circuitry (CRC) with Jun to overcome Yap dependency, which is distinct from the classic TGFb-induced EMT-TF network. A chemical-genetic screen and follow-up functional studies establish Brd4 as an epigenetic gatekeeper for the PTF-Jun CRC, and strong synergy between BET and Yap inhibitors in blocking PDAC growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shigekazu Murakami
- Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Shannon M White
- Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Alec T McIntosh
- Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Chan D K Nguyen
- Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Chunling Yi
- Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA.
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Mui CW, Chan WN, Chen B, Cheung AHK, Yu J, Lo KW, Ke H, Kang W, To KF. Targeting YAP1/TAZ in nonsmall-cell lung carcinoma: From molecular mechanisms to precision medicine. Int J Cancer 2023; 152:558-571. [PMID: 35983734 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.34249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Accumulating evidence has underscored the importance of the Hippo-YAP1 signaling in lung tissue homeostasis, whereas its deregulation induces tumorigenesis. YAP1 and its paralog TAZ are the key downstream effectors tightly controlled by the Hippo pathway. YAP1/TAZ exerts oncogenic activities by transcriptional regulation via physical interaction with TEAD transcription factors. In solid tumors, Hippo-YAP1 crosstalks with other signaling pathways such as Wnt/β-catenin, receptor tyrosine kinase cascade, Notch and TGF-β to synergistically drive tumorigenesis. As YAP1/TAZ expression is significantly correlated with unfavorable outcomes for the patients, small molecules have been developed for targeting YAP1/TAZ to get a therapeutic effect. In this review, we summarize the recent findings on the deregulation of Hippo-YAP1 pathway in nonsmall cell lung carcinoma, discuss the molecular mechanisms of its dysregulation in leading to tumorigenesis, explore the therapeutic strategies for targeting YAP1/TAZ, and provide the research directions for deep investigation. We believe that detailed delineation of Hippo-YAP1 regulation in tumorigenesis provides novel insight for accurate therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun Wai Mui
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, People's Republic of China.,Institute of Digestive Disease, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, People's Republic of China.,State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Sir Y.K. Pao Cancer Center, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, People's Republic of China
| | - Wai Nok Chan
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, People's Republic of China.,Institute of Digestive Disease, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, People's Republic of China.,State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Sir Y.K. Pao Cancer Center, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, People's Republic of China
| | - Bonan Chen
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, People's Republic of China.,Institute of Digestive Disease, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, People's Republic of China.,State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Sir Y.K. Pao Cancer Center, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, People's Republic of China
| | - Alvin Ho-Kwan Cheung
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun Yu
- Institute of Digestive Disease, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, People's Republic of China.,Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, People's Republic of China
| | - Kwok Wai Lo
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, People's Republic of China.,State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Sir Y.K. Pao Cancer Center, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, People's Republic of China
| | - Huixing Ke
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Beijing Hospital, National Center of Gerontology, Institute of Geriatric Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Kang
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, People's Republic of China.,Institute of Digestive Disease, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, People's Republic of China.,State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Sir Y.K. Pao Cancer Center, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, People's Republic of China
| | - Ka Fai To
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, People's Republic of China.,Institute of Digestive Disease, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, People's Republic of China.,State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Sir Y.K. Pao Cancer Center, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, People's Republic of China
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Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas are distinguished by their robust desmoplasia, or fibroinflammatory response. Dominated by non-malignant cells, the mutated epithelium must therefore combat, cooperate with or co-opt the surrounding cells and signalling processes in its microenvironment. It is proposed that an invasive pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma represents the coordinated evolution of malignant and non-malignant cells and mechanisms that subvert and repurpose normal tissue composition, architecture and physiology to foster tumorigenesis. The complex kinetics and stepwise development of pancreatic cancer suggests that it is governed by a discrete set of organizing rules and principles, and repeated attempts to target specific components within the microenvironment reveal self-regulating mechanisms of resistance. The histopathological and genetic progression models of the transforming ductal epithelium must therefore be considered together with a programme of stromal progression to create a comprehensive picture of pancreatic cancer evolution. Understanding the underlying organizational logic of the tumour to anticipate and pre-empt the almost inevitable compensatory mechanisms will be essential to eradicate the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunil R Hingorani
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA.
- Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA.
- Pancreatic Cancer Center of Excellence, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA.
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Park M, Kuen DS, Park J, Choi M, Kim Y, Roh EC, Choi YJ, Kim YG, Chung Y, Cho SY, Kang KW. TYRO3 blockade enhances anti-PD-1 therapy response by modulating expression of CCN1 in tumor microenvironment. J Immunother Cancer 2023; 11:jitc-2022-006084. [PMID: 36693679 PMCID: PMC9884874 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2022-006084] [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] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immunological contexture differs across malignancies, and understanding it in the tumor microenvironment (TME) is essential for development of new anticancer agents in order to achieve synergistic effects with anti-programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1) therapy. TYRO3, AXL, and MERTK receptors are bi-expressed in both cancer and immune cells, and thus emerge as promising targets for therapeutic intervention. Whereas AXL and MERTK have been extensively studied, the role of TYRO3, in the TME, is still undetermined. METHODS Here, we screened the TYRO3-focused chemical library consisting of 208 compounds and presented a potent and highly selective TYRO3 inhibitor, KRCT87. We explored the role of TYRO3 using mouse engrafting MC38 or 4T1 tumors. We validated the results using flow cytometry, RNA sequencing analysis, gene knockdown or overexpression, ex vivo immune cells isolation from mouse models, immunoblotting and quantitative PCR. Flow cytometry was used for the quantification of cell populations and immunophenotyping of macrophages and T cells. Co-cultures of macrophages and T cells were performed to verify the role of CCN1 in the tumors. RESULTS TYRO3 blockade boosts antitumor immune responses in both the tumor-draining lymph nodes and tumors in MC38-syngeneic mice models. Moreover, the combination of KRCT87 and anti-PD-1 therapy exerts significant synergistic antitumor effects in anti-PD-1-non-responsive 4T1-syngeneic model. Mechanistically, we demonstrated that inhibition of TYRO3-driven CCN1 secretion fosters macrophages into M1-skewing phenotypes, thereby triggering antitumor T-cell responses. CCN1 overexpression in MC38 tumors diminishes responsiveness to anti-PD-1 therapy. CONCLUSIONS The activated TYRO3-CCN1 axis in cancer could dampen anti-PD-1 therapy responses. These findings highlight the potential of TYRO3 blockade to improve the clinical outcomes of anti-PD-1 therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miso Park
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Da-Sol Kuen
- Laboratory of Immune Regulation, College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jaewoo Park
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Munkyung Choi
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Yeonji Kim
- Department of Chemistry, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, South Korea
| | - Eun Chae Roh
- College of Pharmacy, Dankook University, Cheonan, Chungnam, South Korea
| | - Yong June Choi
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Yoon Gyoon Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Dankook University, Cheonan, Chungnam, South Korea
| | - Yeonseok Chung
- Laboratory of Immune Regulation, College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Sung Yun Cho
- Department of Drug Discovery, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Keon Wook Kang
- College of Pharmacy and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
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Piccolo S, Panciera T, Contessotto P, Cordenonsi M. YAP/TAZ as master regulators in cancer: modulation, function and therapeutic approaches. NATURE CANCER 2023; 4:9-26. [PMID: 36564601 PMCID: PMC7614914 DOI: 10.1038/s43018-022-00473-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Our understanding of the function of the transcriptional regulators YAP and TAZ (YAP/TAZ) in cancer is advancing. In this Review, we provide an update on recent progress in YAP/TAZ biology, their regulation by Hippo signaling and mechanotransduction and highlight open questions. YAP/TAZ signaling is an addiction shared by multiple tumor types and their microenvironments, providing many malignant attributes. As such, it represents an important vulnerability that may offer a broad window of therapeutic efficacy, and here we give an overview of the current treatment strategies and pioneering clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Piccolo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, Padua, Italy.
- IFOM-ETS, the AIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology, Milan, Italy.
| | - Tito Panciera
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
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35
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Vokes NI, Pan K, Le X. Efficacy of immunotherapy in oncogene-driven non-small-cell lung cancer. Ther Adv Med Oncol 2023; 15:17588359231161409. [PMID: 36950275 PMCID: PMC10026098 DOI: 10.1177/17588359231161409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/20/2023] Open
Abstract
For advanced metastatic non-small-lung cancer, the landscape of actionable driver alterations is rapidly growing, with nine targetable oncogenes and seven approvals within the last 5 years. This accelerated drug development has expanded the reach of targeted therapies, and it may soon be that a majority of patients with lung adenocarcinoma will be eligible for a targeted therapy during their treatment course. With these emerging therapeutic options, it is important to understand the existing data on immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), along with their efficacy and safety for each oncogene-driven lung cancer, to best guide the selection and sequencing of various therapeutic options. This article reviews the clinical data on ICIs for each of the driver oncogene defined lung cancer subtypes, including efficacy, both for ICI as monotherapy or in combination with chemotherapy or radiation; toxicities from ICI/targeted therapy in combination or in sequence; and potential strategies to enhance ICI efficacy in oncogene-driven non-small-cell lung cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie I. Vokes
- Department of Thoracic Head and Neck Medical
Oncology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Genomic Medicine, MD Anderson
Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Kelsey Pan
- Department of Cancer Medicine, MD Anderson
Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
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Wang NH, Lei Z, Yang HN, Tang Z, Yang MQ, Wang Y, Sui JD, Wu YZ. Radiation-induced PD-L1 expression in tumor and its microenvironment facilitates cancer-immune escape: a narrative review. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2022; 10:1406. [PMID: 36660640 PMCID: PMC9843429 DOI: 10.21037/atm-22-6049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Background and Objective Radiotherapy (RT) is one of the fundamental anti-cancer regimens by means of inducing in situ tumor vaccination and driving a systemic anti-tumor immune response. It can affect the tumor microenvironment (TME) components consisting of blood vessels, immunocytes, fibroblasts, and extracellular matrix (ECM), and might subsequently suppress anti-tumor immunity through expression of molecules such as programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1). Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), especially anti-programmed cell death 1 (PD-1)/PD-L1 therapies, have been regarded as effective in the reinvigoration of the immune system and another major cancer treatment. Experimentally, combination of RT and ICIs therapy shows a greater synergistic effect than either therapy alone. Methods We performed a narrative review of the literature in the PubMed database. The research string comprised various combinations of "radiotherapy", "programmed death-ligand 1", "microenvironment", "exosome", "myeloid cell", "tumor cell", "tumor immunity". The database was searched independently by two authors. A third reviewer mediated any discordance of the results of the two screeners. Key Content and Findings RT upregulates PD-L1 expression in tumor cells, tumor-derived exosomes (TEXs), myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), and macrophages. The signaling pathways correlated to PD-L1 expression in tumor cells include the DNA damage signaling pathway, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) pathway, interferon gamma (IFN-γ) pathway, cGAS-STING pathway, and JAK/STATs pathway. Conclusions PD-L1 upregulation post-RT is found not only in tumor cells but also in the TME and is one of the mechanisms of tumor evasion. Therefore, further studies are necessary to fully comprehend this biological process. Meanwhile, combination of therapies has been shown to be effective, and novel approaches are to be developed as adjuvant to RT and ICIs therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuo-Han Wang
- College of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zheng Lei
- College of Medicine, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hao-Nan Yang
- College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zheng Tang
- Radiation Oncology Center, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Meng-Qi Yang
- Radiation Oncology Center, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Radiation Oncology Center, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Jiang-Dong Sui
- Radiation Oncology Center, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
| | - Yong-Zhong Wu
- Radiation Oncology Center, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China
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Sharma U, Tuli HS, Uttam V, Choudhary R, Sharma B, Sharma U, Prakash H, Jain A. Role of Hedgehog and Hippo signaling pathways in cancer: A special focus on non-coding RNAs. Pharmacol Res 2022; 186:106523. [DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2022.106523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Zhou Q, Chen D, Zhang J, Xiang J, Zhang T, Wang H, Zhang Y. Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma holds unique features to form an immunosuppressive microenvironment: a narrative review. JOURNAL OF PANCREATOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1097/jp9.0000000000000109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
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Hu X, Zhang Y, Yu H, Zhao Y, Sun X, Li Q, Wang Y. The role of YAP1 in survival prediction, immune modulation, and drug response: A pan-cancer perspective. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1012173. [PMID: 36479120 PMCID: PMC9719955 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1012173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Dysregulation of the Hippo signaling pathway has been implicated in multiple pathologies, including cancer, and YAP1 is the major effector of the pathway. In this study, we assessed the role of YAP1 in prognostic value, immunomodulation, and drug response from a pan-cancer perspective. Methods We compared YAP1 expression between normal and cancerous tissues and among different pathologic stages survival analysis and gene set enrichment analysis were performed. Additionally, we performed correlation analyses of YAP1 expression with RNA modification-related gene expression, tumor mutation burden (TMB), microsatellite instability (MSI), immune checkpoint regulator expression, and infiltration of immune cells. Correlations between YAP1 expression and IC50s (half-maximal inhibitory concentrations) of drugs in the CellMiner database were calculated. Results We found that YAP1 was aberrantly expressed in various cancer types and regulated by its DNA methylation and post-transcriptional modifications, particularly m6A methylation. High expression of YAP1 was associated with poor survival outcomes in ACC, BLCA, LGG, LUAD, and PAAD. YAP1 expression was negatively correlated with the infiltration of CD8+ T lymphocytes, CD4+ Th1 cells, T follicular helper cells, NKT cells, and activated NK cells, and positively correlated with the infiltration of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in pan-cancer. Higher YAP1 expression showed upregulation of TGF-β signaling, Hedgehog signaling, and KRAS signaling. IC50s of FDA-approved chemotherapeutic drugs capable of inhibiting DNA synthesis, including teniposide, dacarbazine, and doxorubicin, as well as inhibitors of hypoxia-inducible factor, MCL-1, ribonucleotide reductase, and FASN in clinical trials were negatively correlated with YAP1 expression. Discussion In conclusion, YAP1 is aberrantly expressed in various cancer types and regulated by its DNA methylation and post-transcriptional modifications. High expression of YAP1 is associated with poor survival outcomes in certain cancer types. YAP1 may promote tumor progression through immunosuppression, particularly by suppressing the infiltration of CD8+ T lymphocytes, CD4+ Th1 cells, T follicular helper cells, NKT cells, and activated NK cells, as well as recruiting MDSCs and CAFs in pan-cancer. The tumor-promoting activity of YAP1 is attributed to the activation of TGF-β, Hedgehog, and KRAS signaling pathways. AZD2858 and varlitinib might be effective in cancer patients with high YAP1 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xueqing Hu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Academy of Integrative Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yingru Zhang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Academy of Integrative Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Hao Yu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yiyang Zhao
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Academy of Integrative Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoting Sun
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Academy of Integrative Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qi Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Academy of Integrative Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Shuguang Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Academy of Integrative Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
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40
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Koinis F, Chantzara E, Samarinas M, Xagara A, Kratiras Z, Leontopoulou V, Kotsakis A. Emerging Role of YAP and the Hippo Pathway in Prostate Cancer. Biomedicines 2022; 10:2834. [PMID: 36359354 PMCID: PMC9687800 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10112834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The Hippo pathway regulates and contributes to several hallmarks of prostate cancer (PCa). Although the elucidation of YAP function in PCa is in its infancy, emerging studies have shed light on the role of aberrant Hippo pathway signaling in PCa development and progression. YAP overexpression and nuclear localization has been linked to poor prognosis and resistance to treatment, highlighting a therapeutic potential that may suggest innovative strategies to treat cancer. This review aimed to summarize available data on the biological function of the dysregulated Hippo pathway in PCa and identify knowledge gaps that need to be addressed for optimizing the development of YAP-targeted treatment strategies in patients likely to benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filippos Koinis
- Department of Medical Oncology, University General Hospital of Larissa, 41221 Larissa, Greece
- Laboratory of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41500 Larissa, Greece
| | - Evangelia Chantzara
- Department of Medical Oncology, University General Hospital of Larissa, 41221 Larissa, Greece
| | - Michael Samarinas
- Department of Urology, General Hospital “Koutlibanio”, 41221 Larissa, Greece
| | - Anastasia Xagara
- Laboratory of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41500 Larissa, Greece
| | - Zisis Kratiras
- 3rd Urology Department University of Athens, “Attikon” University General Hospital, 12462 Chaidari, Greece
| | - Vasiliki Leontopoulou
- Department of Medical Oncology, University General Hospital of Larissa, 41221 Larissa, Greece
| | - Athanasios Kotsakis
- Department of Medical Oncology, University General Hospital of Larissa, 41221 Larissa, Greece
- Laboratory of Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41500 Larissa, Greece
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Sinnett-Smith J, Anwar T, Reed EF, Teper Y, Eibl G, Rozengurt E. Opposite Effects of Src Family Kinases on YAP and ERK Activation in Pancreatic Cancer Cells: Implications for Targeted Therapy. Mol Cancer Ther 2022; 21:1652-1662. [PMID: 35999654 PMCID: PMC9630827 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-21-0964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains an aggressive disease that is expected to become the second cause of cancer fatalities during the next decade. As therapeutic options are limited, novel targets, and agents for therapeutic intervention are urgently needed. Previously, we identified potent positive crosstalk between insulin/IGF-1 receptors and G protein-coupled (GPCR) signaling systems leading to mitogenic signaling in PDAC cells. Here, we show that a combination of insulin and the GPCR agonist neurotensin induced rapid activation of Src family of tyrosine kinases (SFK) within PANC-1 cells, as shown by FAK phosphorylation at Tyr576/577 and Tyr861, sensitive biomarkers of SFK activity within intact cells and Src416 autophosphorylation. Crucially, SFKs promoted YAP nuclear localization and phosphorylation at Tyr357, as shown by using the SFK inhibitors dasatinib, saracatinib, the preferential YES1 inhibitor CH6953755, siRNA-mediated knockdown of YES1, and transfection of epitogue-tagged YAP mutants in PANC-1 and Mia PaCa-2 cancer cells, models of the aggressive squamous subtype of PDAC. Surprisingly, our results also demonstrate that exposure to SFK inhibitors, including dasatinib or knockdown of YES and Src induces ERK overactivation in PDAC cells. Dasatinib-induced ERK activation was completely abolished by exposure to the FDA-approved MEK inhibitor trametinib. A combination of dasatinib and trametinib potently and synergistically inhibited colony formation by PDAC cells and suppressed the growth of Mia PaCa-2 cells xenografted into the flank of nude mice. The results provide rationale for considering a combination(s) of FDA-approved SFK (dasatinib) and MEK (e.g., trametinib) inhibitors in prospective clinical trials for the treatment of PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Sinnett-Smith
- Division of Digestive Diseases, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California
- VA Greater Los Angeles Health System
| | - Tarique Anwar
- Division of Digestive Diseases, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Elaine F. Reed
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Yaroslav Teper
- Department of Surgery, University of California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Guido Eibl
- Department of Surgery, University of California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Enrique Rozengurt
- Division of Digestive Diseases, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, California
- VA Greater Los Angeles Health System
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Lee Y, Bae SJ, Eun NL, Ahn SG, Jeong J, Cha YJ. Correlation of Yes-Associated Protein 1 with Stroma Type and Tumor Stiffness in Hormone-Receptor Positive Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14204971. [PMID: 36291755 PMCID: PMC9599900 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14204971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary YAP1 is an oncogene that can be activated by matrix stiffness, as it can act as a mechanotransducer. So far, only in vitro studies regarding YAP1 activation and matrix stiffness are present. We confirmed the activation of YAP1 in breast cancer using human breast cancer tissue and immunohistochemistry. Tumor stiffness was quantified by shear-wave elastography. Nuclear localization of YAP1 showed correlation with tumor stiffness in hormone-receptor positive (HR+) breast cancer. Also, tumors with non-collagen-type stroma showed an association between YAP1 expression and tumor stiffness. YAP1 expression, along with tumor stiffness, may serve as a prognostic candidate in HR+ breast cancer. Abstract (1) Background: Yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1) is an oncogene activated under the dysregulated Hippo pathway. YAP1 is also a mechanotransducer that is activated by matrix stiffness. So far, there are no in vivo studies on YAP1 expression related to stiffness. We aimed to investigate the association between YAP1 activation and tumor stiffness in human breast cancer samples, using immunohistochemistry and shear-wave elastography (SWE). (2) Methods: We included 488 patients with treatment-naïve breast cancer. Tumor stiffness was measured and the mean, maximal, and minimal elasticity values and elasticity ratios were recorded. Nuclear YAP1 expression was evaluated by immunohistochemistry and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs); tumor-stroma ratio (TSR) and stroma type of tumors were also evaluated. (3) Results: Tumor stiffness was higher in tumors with YAP1 positivity, low TILs, and high TSR and was correlated with nuclear YAP1 expression; this correlation was observed in hormone receptor positive (HR+) tumors, as well as in tumors with non-collagen-type stroma. (4) Conclusions: We confirmed the correlation between nuclear YAP1 expression and tumor stiffness, and nuclear YAP1 expression was deemed a prognostic candidate in HR+ tumors combined with SWE-measured tumor stiffness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangkyu Lee
- Department of Pathology, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 06273, Korea
- Institute of Breast Cancer Precision Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 06273, Korea
| | - Soong June Bae
- Institute of Breast Cancer Precision Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 06273, Korea
- Department of Surgery, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 06273, Korea
| | - Na Lae Eun
- Department of Radiology, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 06273, Korea
| | - Sung Gwe Ahn
- Institute of Breast Cancer Precision Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 06273, Korea
- Department of Surgery, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 06273, Korea
| | - Joon Jeong
- Institute of Breast Cancer Precision Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 06273, Korea
- Department of Surgery, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 06273, Korea
| | - Yoon Jin Cha
- Department of Pathology, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 06273, Korea
- Institute of Breast Cancer Precision Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 06273, Korea
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-2-2019-3540
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43
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Aberrant transcription factors in the cancers of the pancreas. Semin Cancer Biol 2022; 86:28-45. [PMID: 36058426 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2022.08.011] [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: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Transcription factors (TFs) are essential for proper activation of gene set during the process of organogenesis, differentiation, lineage specificity. Reactivation or dysregulation of TFs regulatory networks could lead to deformation of organs, diseases including various malignancies. Currently, understanding the mechanism of oncogenesis became necessity for the development of targeted therapeutic strategy for different cancer types. It is evident that many TFs go awry in cancers of the pancreas such as pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and pancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (PanNENs). These mutated or dysregulated TFs abnormally controls various signaling pathways in PDAC and PanNENs including RTK, PI3K-PTEN-AKT-mTOR, JNK, TGF-β/SMAD, WNT/β-catenin, SHH, NOTCH and VEGF which in turn regulate different hallmarks of cancer. Aberrant regulation of such pathways have been linked to the initiation, progression, metastasis, and resistance in pancreatic cancer. As of today, a number of TFs has been identified as crucial regulators of pancreatic cancer and a handful of them shown to have potential as therapeutic targets in pre-clinical and clinical settings. In this review, we have summarized the current knowledge on the role and therapeutic usefulness of TFs in PDAC and PanNENs.
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Wang Y, Chen H, Yu J, Kang W, To KF. Recent insight into the role and therapeutic potential of YAP/TAZ in gastrointestinal cancers. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2022; 1877:188787. [PMID: 36041574 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2022.188787] [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: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
With the rapid development of cancer treatment, gastrointestinal (GI) cancers are still the most prevalent malignancies with high morbidity and mortality worldwide. Dysregulation of the Hippo signaling pathway has been recognized to play a critical role during cancer development and adopted for monitoring disease progression and therapy response. Despite the well-documented tumor proliferation and metastasis, recent efforts in two core Hippo components, Yes-associated protein (YAP) and transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ), have identified as the driving forces behind cancer metabolism, stemness, tumor immunity, and therapy resistance. Understanding the molecular mechanisms by which YAP/TAZ facilitates the tumorigenesis and progression of GI cancer, and identifying novel therapeutic strategies for targeting YAP/TAZ are crucial to GI cancer treatment and prevention. In this study, we summarize the latest findings on the function and regulatory mechanisms of YAP/TAZ in GI cancers, and highlight the translational significance of targeting YAP/TAZ for cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifei Wang
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China; Institute of Digestive Disease, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China; State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Sir Y.K. Pao Cancer Centre, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Huarong Chen
- Institute of Digestive Disease, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China; Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care and Peter Hung Pain Research Institute, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Jun Yu
- Institute of Digestive Disease, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China; Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Wei Kang
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China; Institute of Digestive Disease, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China; State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Sir Y.K. Pao Cancer Centre, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China.
| | - Ka Fai To
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China; Institute of Digestive Disease, State Key Laboratory of Digestive Disease, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China; State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Sir Y.K. Pao Cancer Centre, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China.
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Circular RNA hsa_circ_0007367 promotes the progression of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma by sponging miR-6820-3p and upregulating YAP1 expression. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:736. [PMID: 36008392 PMCID: PMC9411600 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-05188-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) play critical regulatory roles in cancer biological processes. Nevertheless, the contributions and underlying mechanisms of circRNAs to pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remain largely unexplored. Dysregulated circRNAs between cancerous tissues and matched adjacent normal tissues were identified by circRNA microarray in PDAC. The biological effect of hsa_circ_007367 both in vitro and in vivo was demonstrated by gain- and loss-of-function experiments. Further, dual-luciferase reporter and RNA pull-down assays were performed to confirm the interaction among hsa_circ_007367, miR-6820-3p, and Yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1). The expression of hsa_circ_007367 and YAP1 were detected by in situ hybridization (ISH) and immunohistochemistry (IHC) using tissue microarray (TMA) in 128 PDAC samples. We first identified that a novel circRNA, hsa_circ_0007367, was markedly upregulated in PDAC tissues and cells. Functionally, in vivo and in vitro data indicated that hsa_circ_0007367 promotes the proliferation and metastasis of PDAC. Mechanistically, we confirmed that hsa_circ_0007367 could facilitate the expression of YAP1, a well-known oncogene, by sponging miR-6820-3p, which function as a tumor suppresser in PDAC cells. The results of ISH and IHC demonstrated that hsa_circ_0007367 and YAP1 were upregulated in PDAC tissues. Furthermore, clinical data showed that higher hsa_circ_0007367 expression was correlated with advanced histological grade and lymph node metastasis in PDAC patients. In conclusion, our findings reveal that hsa_circ_0007367 acts as an oncogene via modulating miR-6820-3p/YAP1 axis to promote the progression of PDAC, and suggest that hsa_circ_0007367 may serve as a potential therapeutic target for treatment of PDAC.
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Zhang J, Li R, Huang S. The immunoregulation effect of tumor microenvironment in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Front Oncol 2022; 12:951019. [PMID: 35965504 PMCID: PMC9365986 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.951019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer has the seventh highest death rate of all cancers. The absence of any serious symptoms, coupled with a lack of early prognostic and diagnostic markers, makes the disease untreatable in most cases. This leads to a delay in diagnosis and the disease progresses so there is no cure. Only about 20% of cases are diagnosed early. Surgical removal is the preferred treatment for cancer, but chemotherapy is standard for advanced cancer, although patients can eventually develop drug resistance and serious side effects. Chemoresistance is multifactorial because of the interaction among pancreatic cancer cells, cancer stem cells, and the tumor microenvironment (TME). Nevertheless, more pancreatic cancer patients will benefit from precision treatment and targeted drugs. This review focuses on the immune-related components of TME and the interactions between tumor cells and TME during the development and progression of pancreatic cancer, including immunosuppression, tumor dormancy and escape. Finally, we discussed a variety of immune components-oriented immunotargeting drugs in TME from a clinical perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Renfeng Li
- *Correspondence: Renfeng Li, ; Shuai Huang,
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47
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Wang Y, Nie H, Li H, Liao Z, Yang X, He X, Ma J, Zhou J, Ou C. The Hippo Pathway Effector Transcriptional Co-activator With PDZ-Binding Motif Correlates With Clinical Prognosis and Immune Infiltration in Colorectal Cancer. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:888093. [PMID: 35865173 PMCID: PMC9295930 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.888093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The transcriptional co-activator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) is a downstream effector of the Hippo pathway. It has been identified as an oncogene in certain tumor types; however, the function and role of TAZ in colorectal cancer (CRC) has not been illustrated. Here, we aimed to analyze the expression and role of TAZ in CRC. In this study, we investigated the expression level of TAZ in 127 CRC and matched adjacent normal tissues by immunohistochemistry (IHC) and analyzed its correlation with clinicopathological characteristics in CRC. Moreover, we further analyzed the role of TAZ in the CRC-associated immunology using integrative bioinformatic analyses. The cBioPortal and WebGestalt database were used to analyze the co-expressed genes and related pathways of TAZ in CRC by gene ontology (GO) and KEGG enrichment analyses. Meanwhile, the correlations between TAZ and the infiltrating immune cells and gene markers were analyzed by TIMER database. Our study revealed that TAZ expression is higher in CRC tissues than in matched adjacent non-tumor tissues. In addition, CRC patients with higher TAZ expression demonstrated poor overall survival (OS) and recurrent-free survival rates as compared to CRC patients with lower expression of TAZ. Furthermore, the TAZ expression was identified to closely associate with the immune infiltration of CD4 + T, CD8 + T, and B cells. Taken together, our findings suggest that TAZ may serve as a promising prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target in CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutong Wang
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Hui Nie
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Huiling Li
- Department of Pathology, Rizhao City People’s Hospital, Rizhao, China
| | - Zhiming Liao
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xuejie Yang
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xiaoyun He
- Department of Ultrasound Imaging, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jian Ma
- Cancer Research Institute and School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jianhua Zhou
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Chunlin Ou
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- *Correspondence: Chunlin Ou,
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48
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Mia MM, Singh MK. Emerging roles of the Hippo signaling pathway in modulating immune response and inflammation-driven tissue repair and remodeling. FEBS J 2022; 289:4061-4081. [PMID: 35363945 DOI: 10.1111/febs.16449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Inflammation is an evolutionarily conserved process and part of the body's defense mechanism. Inflammation leads to the activation of immune and non-immune cells that protect the host tissue/organs from injury or intruding pathogens. The Hippo pathway is an evolutionarily conserved kinase cascade with an established role in regulating cell proliferation, survival, and differentiation. It is involved in diverse biological processes, including organ size control and tissue homeostasis. Recent clinical and pre-clinical studies have shown that the Hippo signaling pathway is also associated with injury- and pathogen-induced tissue inflammation and associated immunopathology. In this review, we have summarized the recent findings related to the involvement of the Hippo signaling pathway in modulating the immune response in different acute and chronic inflammatory diseases and its impact on tissue repair and remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masum M Mia
- Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - Manvendra K Singh
- Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore.,National Heart Research Institute Singapore, National Heart Centre Singapore, Singapore
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Garmendia I, Redin E, Montuenga LM, Calvo A. YES1: a novel therapeutic target and biomarker in cancer. Mol Cancer Ther 2022; 21:1371-1380. [PMID: 35732509 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-21-0958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
YES1 is a non-receptor tyrosine kinase that belongs to the SRC family of kinases (SFKs) and controls multiple cancer signaling pathways. YES1 is amplified and overexpressed in many tumor types, where it promotes cell proliferation, survival and invasiveness. Therefore, YES1 has been proposed as an emerging target in solid tumors. In addition, studies have shown that YES1 is a prognostic biomarker and a predictor of dasatinib activity. Several SFKs-targeting drugs have been developed and some of them have reached clinical trials. However, these drugs have encountered challenges to their utilization in the clinical practice in unselected patients due to toxicity and lack of efficacy. In the case of YES1, novel specific inhibitors have been developed and tested in preclinical models, with impressive antitumor effects. In this review, we summarize the structure and activation of YES1 and describe its role in cancer as a target and prognostic and companion biomarker. We also address the efficacy of SFKs inhibitors that are currently in clinical trials, highlighting the main hindrances for their clinical use. Current available information strongly suggests that inhibiting YES1 in tumors with high expression of this protein is a promising strategy against cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irati Garmendia
- INSERM UMRS1138. Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Paris, France
| | | | - Luis M Montuenga
- CIMA and Clinica Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Navarra, Spain
| | - Alfonso Calvo
- Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), Pamplona, Spain
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Agostini A, Orlacchio A, Carbone C, Guerriero I. Understanding Tricky Cellular and Molecular Interactions in Pancreatic Tumor Microenvironment: New Food for Thought. Front Immunol 2022; 13:876291. [PMID: 35711414 PMCID: PMC9193393 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.876291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) represents 90% of all pancreatic cancer cases and shows a high mortality rate among all solid tumors. PDAC is often associated with poor prognosis, due to the late diagnosis that leads to metastasis development, and limited efficacy of available treatments. The tumor microenvironment (TME) represents a reliable source of novel targets for therapy, and even if many of the biological interactions among stromal, immune, and cancer cells that populate the TME have been studied, much more needs to be clarified. The great limitation in the efficacy of current standard chemoterapy is due to both the dense fibrotic inaccessible TME barrier surrounding cancer cells and the immunological evolution from a tumor-suppressor to an immunosuppressive environment. Nevertheless, combinatorial therapies may prove more effective at overcoming resistance mechanisms and achieving tumor cell killing. To achieve this result, a deeper understanding of the pathological mechanisms driving tumor progression and immune escape is required in order to design rationale-based therapeutic strategies. This review aims to summarize the present knowledge about cellular interactions in the TME, with much attention on immunosuppressive functioning and a specific focus on extracellular matrix (ECM) contribution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Agostini
- Medical Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Medical Oncology, Department of Translational Medicine, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Arturo Orlacchio
- NYU Grossman School of Medicine, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY, United States
| | - Carmine Carbone
- Medical Oncology, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Ilaria Guerriero
- Biogem, Biology and Molecular Genetics Institute, Ariano Irpino, Italy
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