1
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Shen D, Xia Y, Fu Y, Cao Q, Chen W, Zhu Y, Guo K, Sun L. Hedgehog pathway and cancer: A new area (Review). Oncol Rep 2024; 52:116. [PMID: 38994763 PMCID: PMC11267502 DOI: 10.3892/or.2024.8775] [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] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
In years of research on classical pathways, the composition, information transmission mechanism, crosstalk with other pathways, and physiological and pathological effects of hedgehog (HH) pathway have been gradually clarified. HH also plays a critical role in tumor formation and development. According to the update of interpretation of tumor phenotypes, the latest relevant studies have been sorted out, to explore the specific mechanism of HH pathway in regulating different tumor phenotypes through gene mutation and signal regulation. The drugs and natural ingredients involved in regulating HH pathway were also reviewed; five approved drugs and drugs under research exert efficacy by blocking HH pathway, and at least 22 natural components have potential to treat tumors by HH pathway. Nevertheless, there is a deficiency of existing studies. The present review confirmed the great potential of HH pathway in future cancer treatment with factual basis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deyi Shen
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine), Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, P.R. China
| | - Yuwei Xia
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310053, P.R. China
| | - Yuhan Fu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine), Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, P.R. China
| | - Qiaochang Cao
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine), Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, P.R. China
| | - Wenqian Chen
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310053, P.R. China
| | - Ying Zhu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine), Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, P.R. China
| | - Kaibo Guo
- Department of Cancer Medicine, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, P.R. China
| | - Leitao Sun
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine), Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, P.R. China
- Academy of Chinese Medical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310053, P.R. China
- Key Laboratory of Neuropharmacology and Translational Medicine of Zhejiang, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310053, P.R. China
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2
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Xu D, Hu Z, Wang K, Hu S, Zhou Y, Zhang S, Chen Y, Pan T. Why does HER2-positive breast cancer metastasize to the brain and what can we do about it? Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2024; 195:104269. [PMID: 38272149 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2024.104269] [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: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most frequent malignancy in women. However, in the middle and late stages, some people develop distant metastases, which considerably lower the quality of life and life expectancy. The brain is one of the sites where metastasis frequently happens. According to epidemiological research, brain metastases occur at a late stage in 30-50% of patients with HER2-positive breast cancer, resulting in a poor prognosis. Additionally, few treatments are available for HER2-positive brain metastatic breast cancer, and the mortality rate is remarkable owing to the complexity of the brain's anatomical structure and physiological function. In this review, we described the stages of the brain metastasis of breast cancer, the relationship between the microenvironment and metastatic cancer cells, and the unique molecular and cellular mechanisms. It involves cancer cells migrating, invading, and adhering to the brain; penetrating the blood-brain barrier; interacting with brain cells; and activating signal pathways once inside the brain. Finally, we reviewed current clinically used treatment approaches for brain metastasis in HER2-positive breast cancer; summarized the traditional treatment, targeted treatment, immunotherapy, and other treatment modalities; compared the benefits and drawbacks of each approach; discussed treatment challenges; and emphasized the importance of identifying potential targets to improve patient survival rates and comprehend brain metastasis in breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongyan Xu
- Department of Breast Surgery and Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310009, China; Cancer Institute (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, China National Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology in Medical Sciences), The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310009, China
| | - Zhengfang Hu
- Beijing Tian Tan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, China
| | - Kaiyue Wang
- Department of Breast Surgery and Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310009, China; Cancer Institute (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, China National Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology in Medical Sciences), The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310009, China
| | - Shiyao Hu
- Department of Breast Surgery and Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310009, China; Cancer Institute (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, China National Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology in Medical Sciences), The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310009, China
| | - Yunxiang Zhou
- Department of Breast Surgery and Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310009, China; Cancer Institute (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, China National Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology in Medical Sciences), The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310009, China
| | - Shizhen Zhang
- Department of Breast Surgery and Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310009, China; Cancer Institute (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, China National Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology in Medical Sciences), The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310009, China
| | - Yiding Chen
- Department of Breast Surgery and Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310009, China; Cancer Institute (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, China National Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology in Medical Sciences), The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310009, China
| | - Tao Pan
- Department of Breast Surgery and Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310009, China; Cancer Institute (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, China National Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology in Medical Sciences), The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310009, China.
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3
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Jin L, Jin A, Wang L, Qi X, Jin Y, Zhang C, Niu M. NRP1 Induces Enhanced Stemness and Chemoresistance in Glioma Cells via YAP. Biol Pharm Bull 2024; 47:166-174. [PMID: 38220212 DOI: 10.1248/bpb.b23-00630] [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] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Neuropilin-1 (NRP1), a transmembrane glycoprotein, plays an important role in the malignant progression of gliomas; however, its role in chemoresistance is not fully understood. In this study, we observed the effects of NRP1 on the stemness and chemoresistance of glioma cells and the mediating role of Yes-associated protein (YAP). We constructed NRP1 overexpressing LN-229 glioma cells. Cells were treated with recombinant NRP1 protein (rNRP1) and the YAP inhibitor Super-TDU when necessary. 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay was used to detect the sensitivity of cells to temozolomide (TMZ). Sphere and clone formation assays were performed to detect the sphere- and clone-forming abilities of cells. Western blotting was performed to detect cellular CD133, CD44, p-LATS1, and p-YAP protein expression. Immunofluorescence and flow cytometry were used to detect the subcellular localization of YAP and apoptosis, respectively. We found that both NRP1 overexpression and rNRP1 treatment enhanced self-renewal, TMZ resistance, and CD133 and CD44 protein expression in LN-229 cells. NRP1 overexpression and rNRP1 treatment also induced LATS1 and YAP dephosphorylation and YAP nuclear translocation. Super-TDU inhibits NRP1 overexpression-induced enhanced self-renewal and TMZ resistance in LN-229 cells. Our study suggests that NRP1 induces increased stemness in glioma cells, resulting in chemoresistance, and that this effect is associated with YAP activation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ai Jin
- Cangzhou People's Hospital
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4
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Premachandran S, Dhinakaran AK, Das S, Venkatakrishnan K, Tan B, Sharma M. Detection of lung cancer metastasis from blood using L-MISC nanosensor: Targeting circulating metastatic cues for improved diagnosis. Biosens Bioelectron 2024; 243:115782. [PMID: 37890388 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2023.115782] [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: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Metastatic lung cancers are considered one of the most clinically significant malignancies, comprising about 40% of deaths caused by cancers. Detection of lung cancer metastasis prior to symptomatic relapse is critical for timely diagnosis and clinical management. The onset of cancer metastasis is indicated by the manifestation of tumor-shed signatures from the primary tumor in peripheral circulation. A subset of this population, characterized as the metastasis-initiating stem cells, are capable of invasion, tumor initiation, and propagation of metastasis at distant sites. In this study, we have developed a SERS-functionalised L-MISC (Lung-Metastasis Initiating Stem Cells) nanosensor to accurately capture the trace levels of metastatic signatures directly from patient blood. We investigated the signatures of cancer stem cell enriched heterogenous population of primary and metastatic lung cancer cells to establish a metastatic profile unique to lung cancer. Multivariate statistical analyses revealed statistically significant differences in the molecular profiles of healthy, primary, and metastatic cell populations. The single-cell sensitivity of L-MISC nanosensor enabled a label-free detection of MISCs with high sensitivity and specificity. By employing a robust machine learning model, our diagnostic methodology can accurately detect metastatic lung cancer from not more than 5 μl of blood. A pilot validation of our study was carried out using clinical samples for the prediction of metastatic lung cancers resulting in 100% diagnostic sensitivity. The L-MISC nanosensor is a potential tool for highly rapid, non-invasive, and accurate diagnosis of lung cancer metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srilakshmi Premachandran
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Science and Technology (I BEST), Partnership Between Toronto Metropolitan University and St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, M5B 1W8, Canada; Ultrashort Laser Nanomanufacturing Research Facility, Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Toronto Metropolitan University, 350 Victoria Street, Toronto, ON, M5B 2K3, Canada; Nano-Bio Interface Facility, Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Toronto Metropolitan University, 350 Victoria Street, Toronto, ON, M5B 2K3, Canada
| | - Ashok Kumar Dhinakaran
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Science and Technology (I BEST), Partnership Between Toronto Metropolitan University and St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, M5B 1W8, Canada; Ultrashort Laser Nanomanufacturing Research Facility, Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Toronto Metropolitan University, 350 Victoria Street, Toronto, ON, M5B 2K3, Canada; Nano-Bio Interface Facility, Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Toronto Metropolitan University, 350 Victoria Street, Toronto, ON, M5B 2K3, Canada
| | - Sunit Das
- Department of Surgery, Division of Neurosurgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Krishnan Venkatakrishnan
- Keenan Research Center for Biomedical Science, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5B 1W8, Canada; Ultrashort Laser Nanomanufacturing Research Facility, Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Toronto Metropolitan University, 350 Victoria Street, Toronto, ON, M5B 2K3, Canada; Nano-Bio Interface Facility, Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Toronto Metropolitan University, 350 Victoria Street, Toronto, ON, M5B 2K3, Canada.
| | - Bo Tan
- Keenan Research Center for Biomedical Science, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, M5B 1W8, Canada; Nano Characterization Laboratory, Department of Aerospace Engineering, Toronto Metropolitan University, 350 Victoria Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5B 2K3, Canada; Nano-Bio Interface Facility, Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Toronto Metropolitan University, 350 Victoria Street, Toronto, ON, M5B 2K3, Canada
| | - Mansi Sharma
- Department of Biotechnology, Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology, Patiala, India
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Zhou D, Gong Z, Wu D, Ma C, Hou L, Niu X, Xu T. Harnessing immunotherapy for brain metastases: insights into tumor-brain microenvironment interactions and emerging treatment modalities. J Hematol Oncol 2023; 16:121. [PMID: 38104104 PMCID: PMC10725587 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-023-01518-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain metastases signify a deleterious milestone in the progression of several advanced cancers, predominantly originating from lung, breast and melanoma malignancies, with a median survival timeframe nearing six months. Existing therapeutic regimens yield suboptimal outcomes; however, burgeoning insights into the tumor microenvironment, particularly the immunosuppressive milieu engendered by tumor-brain interplay, posit immunotherapy as a promising avenue for ameliorating brain metastases. In this review, we meticulously delineate the research advancements concerning the microenvironment of brain metastases, striving to elucidate the panorama of their onset and evolution. We encapsulate three emergent immunotherapeutic strategies, namely immune checkpoint inhibition, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell transplantation and glial cell-targeted immunoenhancement. We underscore the imperative of aligning immunotherapy development with in-depth understanding of the tumor microenvironment and engendering innovative delivery platforms. Moreover, the integration with established or avant-garde physical methodologies and localized applications warrants consideration in the prevailing therapeutic schema.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dairan Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, 415 Fengyang Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai, 200003, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhenyu Gong
- Department of Neurosurgery, Klinikum Rechts Der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, 81675, Germany
| | - Dejun Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230601, Anhui, People's Republic of China
| | - Chao Ma
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230601, Anhui, People's Republic of China
| | - Lijun Hou
- Department of Neurosurgery, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, 415 Fengyang Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai, 200003, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaomin Niu
- Department of Shanghai Lung Cancer Center, Shanghai Chest Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 241 Huaihai West Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai, 200030, People's Republic of China.
| | - Tao Xu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Changzheng Hospital, Naval Medical University, 415 Fengyang Road, Huangpu District, Shanghai, 200003, People's Republic of China.
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6
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Sakamoto Y, Ochiya T, Yoshioka Y. Extracellular vesicles in the breast cancer brain metastasis: physiological functions and clinical applications. Front Hum Neurosci 2023; 17:1278501. [PMID: 38111675 PMCID: PMC10725966 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2023.1278501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer, which exhibits an increasing incidence and high mortality rate among cancers, is predominantly attributed to metastatic malignancies. Brain metastasis, in particular, significantly contributes to the elevated mortality in breast cancer patients. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are small lipid bilayer vesicles secreted by various cells that contain biomolecules such as nucleic acids and proteins. They deliver these bioactive molecules to recipient cells, thereby regulating signal transduction and protein expression levels. The relationship between breast cancer metastasis and EVs has been extensively investigated. In this review, we focus on the molecular mechanisms by which EVs promote brain metastasis in breast cancer. Additionally, we discuss the potential of EV-associated molecules as therapeutic targets and their relevance as early diagnostic markers for breast cancer brain metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Yusuke Yoshioka
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Institute of Medical Science, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
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7
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Yang Y, Liu Z, Lu J, Sun Y, Fu Y, Pan M, Xie X, Ge Q. Analysis approaches for the identification and prediction of N6-methyladenosine sites. Epigenetics 2023; 18:2158284. [PMID: 36562485 PMCID: PMC9980620 DOI: 10.1080/15592294.2022.2158284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The global dynamics in a variety of biological processes can be revealed by mapping transcriptional m6A sites, in particular full-transcriptome m6A. And individual m6A sites have contributed to biological function, which can be evaluated by stoichiometric information obtained from the single nucleotide resolution. Currently, the identification of m6A sites is mainly carried out by experiment and prediction methods, based on high-throughput sequencing and machine learning model respectively. This review summarizes the recent topics and progress made in bioinformatics methods of deciphering the m6A methylation, including the experimental detection of m6A methylation sites, techniques of data analysis, the way of predicting m6A methylation sites, m6A methylation databases, and detection of m6A modification in circRNA. At the end, the essay makes a brief discussion for the development perspective in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuwei Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhiyu Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Junru Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuqing Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Min Pan
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xueying Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Qinyu Ge
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
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8
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Hussen BM, Abdullah KH, Abdullah SR, Majeed NM, Mohamadtahr S, Rasul MF, Dong P, Taheri M, Samsami M. New insights of miRNA molecular mechanisms in breast cancer brain metastasis and therapeutic targets. Noncoding RNA Res 2023; 8:645-660. [PMID: 37818447 PMCID: PMC10560790 DOI: 10.1016/j.ncrna.2023.09.003] [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: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain metastases in breast cancer (BC) patients are often associated with a poor prognosis. Recent studies have uncovered the critical roles of miRNAs in the initiation and progression of BC brain metastasis, highlighting the disease's underlying molecular pathways. miRNA-181c, miRNA-10b, and miRNA-21, for example, are all overexpressed in BC patients. It has been shown that these three miRNAs help tumors grow and metastasize by targeting genes that control how cells work. On the other hand, miRNA-26b5p, miRNA-7, and miRNA-1013p are all downregulated in BC brain metastasis patients. They act as tumor suppressors by controlling the expression of genes related to cell adhesion, angiogenesis, and invasion. Therapeutic miRNA targeting has considerable promise in treating BC brain metastases. Several strategies have been proposed to modulate miRNA expression, including miRNA-Mimics, antagomirs, and small molecule inhibitors of miRNA biogenesis. This review discusses the aberrant expression of miRNAs and metastatic pathways that lead to the spread of BC cells to the brain. It also explores miRNA therapeutic target molecular mechanisms and BC brain metastasis challenges with advanced strategies. The targeting of certain miRNAs opens a new door for the development of novel therapeutic approaches for this devastating disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bashdar Mahmud Hussen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Science, Cihan University-Erbil, Kurdistan Region, 44001, Iraq
- Department of Clinical Analysis, College of Pharmacy, Hawler Medical University, Kurdistan Region, Erbil, Iraq
| | - Khozga Hazhar Abdullah
- Medical Laboratory Science, College of Health Sciences, Lebanese French University, Kurdistan Region, Erbil, Iraq
| | - Snur Rasool Abdullah
- Medical Laboratory Science, College of Health Sciences, Lebanese French University, Kurdistan Region, Erbil, Iraq
| | | | - Sayran Mohamadtahr
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Hawler Medical University, Erbil, Iraq
| | - Mohammed Fatih Rasul
- Department of Pharmaceutical Basic Science, Tishk International University, Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq
| | - Peixin Dong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hokkaido University School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Mohammad Taheri
- Institute of Human Genetics, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
- Urology and Nephrology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Majid Samsami
- Cancer Research Center, Loghman Hakim Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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9
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Passalacqua MI, Ciappina G, Di Pietro M, Spagnolo CC, Squeri A, Granata B, Muscolino P, Santarpia M. Therapeutic strategies for HER2-positive breast cancer with central nervous system involvement: a literature review and future perspectives. Transl Cancer Res 2023; 12:3179-3197. [PMID: 38130295 PMCID: PMC10731379 DOI: 10.21037/tcr-23-1126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objective Brain metastases (BMs) are present in approximately 55% of patients with HER2-positive breast cancer (HER2+ BC). The introduction of anti-HER2 agents has radically changed the prognosis of these patients by prolonging overall survival. Methods In this review, we describe the biology of central nervous system (CNS) spreading in patients with HER2+ BC. We also provide a literature review of current treatment strategies of brain metastatic BC, focusing on HER2+ disease, and future perspectives. Key Content and Findings Treatment of symptomatic BMs includes traditionally neurosurgery and/or radiotherapy, depending on the number of metastases, performance status and systemic disease control. Local treatments, such as surgical excision of BM and stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS), when feasible, are preferred over whole-brain radiotherapy, because of related cognitive impairment. These treatments can lead to a local control of the disease, however, systemic relapses can affect the prognosis of these patients. Recently, new anti-HER2 agents have demonstrated to be effective on BMs, thereby leading to improved survival outcomes with an acceptable quality of life. Despite the clinical benefit of these approaches, BMs still represent a cause of death and effective therapeutic strategies are needed. Conclusions Different targeted agents have demonstrated significant efficacy with tolerable safety profiles in HER2+ BC patients with BM, and have already been approved for clinical use in this setting. A better understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the onset of BMs could suggest novel targeted approaches in order to prevent CNS localization or delay progression to CNS in HER-2 metastatic patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Martina Di Pietro
- Department of Human Pathology “G. Barresi”, Medical Oncology Unit, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Calogera Claudia Spagnolo
- Department of Human Pathology “G. Barresi”, Medical Oncology Unit, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Andrea Squeri
- Department of Human Pathology “G. Barresi”, Medical Oncology Unit, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Barbara Granata
- Department of Human Pathology “G. Barresi”, Medical Oncology Unit, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Paola Muscolino
- Department of Human Pathology “G. Barresi”, Medical Oncology Unit, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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10
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Doustmihan A, Fathi M, Mazloomi M, Salemi A, Hamblin MR, Jahanban-Esfahlan R. Molecular targets, therapeutic agents and multitasking nanoparticles to deal with cancer stem cells: A narrative review. J Control Release 2023; 363:57-83. [PMID: 37739017 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2023.09.029] [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: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
There is increasing evidence that malignant tumors are initiated and maintained by a sub-population of tumor cells that have similar biological properties to normal adult stem cells. This very small population of Cancer Stem Cells (CSC) comprises tumor initiating cells responsible for cancer recurrence, drug resistance and metastasis. Conventional treatments such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery, in addition to being potentially toxic and non-specific, may paradoxically increase the population, spread and survival of CSCs. Next-generation sequencing and omics technologies are increasing our understanding of the pathways and factors involved in the development of CSCs, and can help to discover new therapeutic targets against CSCs. In addition, recent advances in nanomedicine have provided hope for the development of optimal specific therapies to eradicate CSCs. Moreover, the use of artificial intelligence and nano-informatics can elucidate new drug targets, and help to design drugs and nanoparticles (NPs) to deal with CSCs. In this review, we first summarize the properties of CSCs and describe the signaling pathways and molecular characteristics responsible for the emergence and survival of CSCs. Also, the location of CSCs within the tumor and the effect of host factors on the creation and maintenance of CSCs are discussed. Newly discovered molecular targets involved in cancer stemness and some novel therapeutic compounds to combat CSCs are highlighted. The optimum properties of anti-CSC NPs, including blood circulation and stability, tumor accumulation and penetration, cellular internalization, drug release, endosomal escape, and aptamers designed for specific targeting of CSCs are covered. Finally, some recent smart NPs designed for therapeutic and theranostic purposes to overcome CSCs are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abolfazl Doustmihan
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Marziyeh Fathi
- Research Center for Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Biomedicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - MirAhmad Mazloomi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Aysan Salemi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Research Center for Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Biomedicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Michael R Hamblin
- Laser Research Centre, Faculty of Health Science, University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein, 2028, South Africa.
| | - Rana Jahanban-Esfahlan
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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11
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Qu F, Brough SC, Michno W, Madubata CJ, Hartmann GG, Puno A, Drainas AP, Bhattacharya D, Tomasich E, Lee MC, Yang D, Kim J, Peiris-Pagès M, Simpson KL, Dive C, Preusser M, Toland A, Kong C, Das M, Winslow MM, Pasca AM, Sage J. Crosstalk between small-cell lung cancer cells and astrocytes mimics brain development to promote brain metastasis. Nat Cell Biol 2023; 25:1506-1519. [PMID: 37783795 PMCID: PMC11230587 DOI: 10.1038/s41556-023-01241-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
Brain metastases represent an important clinical problem for patients with small-cell lung cancer (SCLC). However, the mechanisms underlying SCLC growth in the brain remain poorly understood. Here, using intracranial injections in mice and assembloids between SCLC aggregates and human cortical organoids in culture, we found that SCLC cells recruit reactive astrocytes to the tumour microenvironment. This crosstalk between SCLC cells and astrocytes drives the induction of gene expression programmes that are similar to those found during early brain development in neurons and astrocytes. Mechanistically, the brain development factor Reelin, secreted by SCLC cells, recruits astrocytes to brain metastases. These astrocytes in turn promote SCLC growth by secreting neuronal pro-survival factors such as SERPINE1. Thus, SCLC brain metastases grow by co-opting mechanisms involved in reciprocal neuron-astrocyte interactions during brain development. Targeting such developmental programmes activated in this cancer ecosystem may help prevent and treat brain metastases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangfei Qu
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Siqi C Brough
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Wojciech Michno
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Chioma J Madubata
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Griffin G Hartmann
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Alyssa Puno
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Alexandros P Drainas
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Debadrita Bhattacharya
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Erwin Tomasich
- Department of Medicine I, Division of Oncology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Myung Chang Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Dian Yang
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Jun Kim
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Maria Peiris-Pagès
- Cancer Research UK Cancer Biomarker Centre, Manchester, UK
- Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, Manchester, UK
| | - Kathryn L Simpson
- Cancer Research UK Cancer Biomarker Centre, Manchester, UK
- Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, Manchester, UK
| | - Caroline Dive
- Cancer Research UK Cancer Biomarker Centre, Manchester, UK
- Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, Manchester, UK
| | - Matthias Preusser
- Department of Medicine I, Division of Oncology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Angus Toland
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Christina Kong
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Millie Das
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Medicine, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Monte M Winslow
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Anca M Pasca
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Julien Sage
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
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12
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Samuels M, Jones W, Towler B, Turner C, Robinson S, Giamas G. The role of non-coding RNAs in extracellular vesicles in breast cancer and their diagnostic implications. Oncogene 2023; 42:3017-3034. [PMID: 37670020 PMCID: PMC10555829 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-023-02827-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: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023]
Abstract
Breast Cancer (BC) is the most common form of cancer worldwide, responsible for 25% of cancers in women. Whilst treatment is effective and often curative in early BC, metastatic disease is incurable, highlighting the need for early detection. Currently, early detection relies on invasive procedures, however recent studies have shown extracellular vesicles (EVs) obtained from liquid biopsies may have clinical utility. EVs transport diverse bioactive cargos throughout the body, play major roles in intercellular communication and, importantly, mirror their cell of origin. In cancer cells, EVs alter the behaviour of the tumour microenvironment (TME), forming a bridge of communication between cancerous and non-cancerous cells to alter all aspects of cancer progression, including the formation of a pre-metastatic niche. Through gene regulatory frameworks, non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) modulate vital molecular and cellular processes and can act as both tumour suppressors and oncogenic drivers in various cancer types. EVs transport and protect ncRNAs, facilitating their use clinically as liquid biopsies for early BC detection. This review summarises current research surrounding ncRNAs and EVs within BC, focusing on their roles in cancer progression through bi-directional communication with the microenvironment and their diagnostic implications. The role of EV ncRNAs in breast cancer. A representation of the different EV ncRNAs involved in tumourigenic processes in breast cancer. Pro-tumourigenic ncRNAs displayed in green and ncRNAs which inhibit oncogenic processes are shown in red.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Samuels
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedicine, School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, JMS Building, Falmer, Brighton, BN1 9QG, UK.
| | - William Jones
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedicine, School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, JMS Building, Falmer, Brighton, BN1 9QG, UK
| | - Benjamin Towler
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedicine, School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, JMS Building, Falmer, Brighton, BN1 9QG, UK
| | - Charlotte Turner
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedicine, School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, JMS Building, Falmer, Brighton, BN1 9QG, UK
| | - Stephen Robinson
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedicine, School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, JMS Building, Falmer, Brighton, BN1 9QG, UK
| | - Georgios Giamas
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedicine, School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, JMS Building, Falmer, Brighton, BN1 9QG, UK.
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13
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Terceiro LEL, Ikeogu NM, Lima MF, Edechi CA, Nickel BE, Fischer G, Leygue E, McManus KJ, Myal Y. Navigating the Blood-Brain Barrier: Challenges and Therapeutic Strategies in Breast Cancer Brain Metastases. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12034. [PMID: 37569410 PMCID: PMC10418424 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241512034] [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: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is the most common cancer in women, with metastatic BC being responsible for the highest number of deaths. A frequent site for BC metastasis is the brain. Brain metastasis derived from BC involves the cooperation of multiple genetic, epigenetic, angiogenic, and tumor-stroma interactions. Most of these interactions provide a unique opportunity for development of new therapeutic targets. Potentially targetable signaling pathways are Notch, Wnt, and the epidermal growth factor receptors signaling pathways, all of which are linked to driving BC brain metastasis (BCBM). However, a major challenge in treating brain metastasis remains the blood-brain barrier (BBB). This barrier restricts the access of unwanted molecules, cells, and targeted therapies to the brain parenchyma. Moreover, current therapies to treat brain metastases, such as stereotactic radiosurgery and whole-brain radiotherapy, have limited efficacy. Promising new drugs like phosphatase and kinase modulators, as well as BBB disruptors and immunotherapeutic strategies, have shown the potential to ease the disease in preclinical studies, but remain limited by multiple resistance mechanisms. This review summarizes some of the current understanding of the mechanisms involved in BC brain metastasis and highlights current challenges as well as opportunities in strategic designs of potentially successful future therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas E. L. Terceiro
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 3P5, Canada; (L.E.L.T.); (C.A.E.); (B.E.N.); (G.F.)
| | - Nnamdi M. Ikeogu
- Department of Immunology, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0T5, Canada;
| | - Matheus F. Lima
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, CancerCare Manitoba Research Institute, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V9, Canada;
| | - Chidalu A. Edechi
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 3P5, Canada; (L.E.L.T.); (C.A.E.); (B.E.N.); (G.F.)
| | - Barbara E. Nickel
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 3P5, Canada; (L.E.L.T.); (C.A.E.); (B.E.N.); (G.F.)
| | - Gabor Fischer
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 3P5, Canada; (L.E.L.T.); (C.A.E.); (B.E.N.); (G.F.)
| | - Etienne Leygue
- Department of Biochemistry and Medical Genetics, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0T5, Canada; (E.L.); (K.J.M.)
| | - Kirk J. McManus
- Department of Biochemistry and Medical Genetics, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0T5, Canada; (E.L.); (K.J.M.)
- Paul Albrechtsen Research Institute, CancerCare Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V9, Canada
| | - Yvonne Myal
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 3P5, Canada; (L.E.L.T.); (C.A.E.); (B.E.N.); (G.F.)
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, CancerCare Manitoba Research Institute, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V9, Canada;
- Paul Albrechtsen Research Institute, CancerCare Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V9, Canada
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14
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Benjamin M, Malakar P, Sinha RA, Nasser MW, Batra SK, Siddiqui JA, Chakravarti B. Molecular signaling network and therapeutic developments in breast cancer brain metastasis. ADVANCES IN CANCER BIOLOGY - METASTASIS 2023; 7:100079. [PMID: 36536947 PMCID: PMC7613958 DOI: 10.1016/j.adcanc.2022.100079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is one of the most frequently diagnosed cancers in women worldwide. It has surpassed lung cancer as the leading cause of cancer-related death. Breast cancer brain metastasis (BCBM) is becoming a major clinical concern that is commonly associated with ER-ve and HER2+ve subtypes of BC patients. Metastatic lesions in the brain originate when the cancer cells detach from a primary breast tumor and establish metastatic lesions and infiltrate near and distant organs via systemic blood circulation by traversing the BBB. The colonization of BC cells in the brain involves a complex interplay in the tumor microenvironment (TME), metastatic cells, and brain cells like endothelial cells, microglia, and astrocytes. BCBM is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality and presents a challenge to developing successful cancer therapy. In this review, we discuss the molecular mechanism of BCBM and novel therapeutic strategies for patients with brain metastatic BC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mercilena Benjamin
- Lab Oncology, Dr. B.R.A.I.R.C.H. All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Pushkar Malakar
- Department of Biomedical Science and Technology, School of Biological Sciences, Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute, Narendrapur, West Bengal, 700103, India
| | - Rohit Anthony Sinha
- Department of Endocrinology, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, 226014, India
| | - Mohd Wasim Nasser
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
- Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68108, USA
| | - Surinder K. Batra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
- Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68108, USA
| | - Jawed Akhtar Siddiqui
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
- Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68108, USA
| | - Bandana Chakravarti
- Department of Endocrinology, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, 226014, India
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15
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Cao Y, Li Y, Liu R, Zhou J, Wang K. Preclinical and Basic Research Strategies for Overcoming Resistance to Targeted Therapies in HER2-Positive Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15092568. [PMID: 37174034 PMCID: PMC10177527 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15092568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The amplification of epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) is associated with a poor prognosis and HER2 gene is overexpressed in approximately 15-30% of breast cancers. In HER2-positive breast cancer patients, HER2-targeted therapies improved clinical outcomes and survival rates. However, drug resistance to anti-HER2 drugs is almost unavoidable, leaving some patients with an unmet need for better prognoses. Therefore, exploring strategies to delay or revert drug resistance is urgent. In recent years, new targets and regimens have emerged continuously. This review discusses the fundamental mechanisms of drug resistance in the targeted therapies of HER2-positive breast cancer and summarizes recent research progress in this field, including preclinical and basic research studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Cao
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medical science, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Yunjin Li
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medical science, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Ruijie Liu
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Jianhua Zhou
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medical science, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Kuansong Wang
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
- Department of Pathology, School of Basic Medical science, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
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16
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Xiong S, Tan X, Wu X, Wan A, Zhang G, Wang C, Liang Y, Zhang Y. Molecular landscape and emerging therapeutic strategies in breast
cancer brain metastasis. Ther Adv Med Oncol 2023; 15:17588359231165976. [PMID: 37034479 PMCID: PMC10074632 DOI: 10.1177/17588359231165976] [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: 07/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is the most commonly diagnosed cancer worldwide. Advanced BC
with brain metastasis (BM) is a major cause of mortality with no specific or
effective treatment. Therefore, better knowledge of the cellular and molecular
mechanisms underlying breast cancer brain metastasis (BCBM) is crucial for
developing novel therapeutic strategies and improving clinical outcomes. In this
review, we focused on the latest advances and discuss the contribution of the
molecular subtype of BC, the brain microenvironment, exosomes, miRNAs/lncRNAs,
and genetic background in BCBM. The blood–brain barrier and blood–tumor barrier
create challenges to brain drug delivery, and we specifically review novel
approaches to bypass these barriers. Furthermore, we discuss the potential
application of immunotherapies and genetic editing techniques based on
CRISPR/Cas9 technology in treating BCBM. Emerging techniques and research
findings continuously shape our views of BCBM and contribute to improvements in
precision therapies and clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyi Xiong
- Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Southwest Hospital,
Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xuanni Tan
- Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Southwest Hospital,
Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiujuan Wu
- Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Southwest Hospital,
Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Andi Wan
- Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Southwest Hospital,
Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Guozhi Zhang
- Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Southwest Hospital,
Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Cheng Wang
- Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Southwest Hospital,
Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yan Liang
- Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Southwest Hospital,
Army Medical University, 30 Gaotanyan, Shapingba, China Chongqing 400038,
China
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17
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Long L, Yi Z, Zeng Y, Liu Z. The progress of microenvironment-targeted therapies in brain metastases. Front Mol Biosci 2023; 10:1141994. [PMID: 37056723 PMCID: PMC10086249 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1141994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The incidence of brain metastases (BrM) has become a growing concern recently. It is a common and often fatal manifestation in the brain during the end-stage of many extracranial primary tumors. Increasing BrM diagnoses can be attributed to improvements in primary tumor treatments, which have extended patients’ lifetime, and allowed for earlier and more efficient detection of brain lesions. Currently, therapies for BrM encompass systemic chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Systemic chemotherapy regimens are controversial due to their associated side effects and limited efficacy. Targeted and immunotherapies have garnered significant attention in the medical field: they target specific molecular sites and modulate specific cellular components. However, multiple difficulties such as drug resistance and low permeability of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) remain significant challenges. Thus, there is an urgent need for novel therapies. Brain microenvironments consist of cellular components including immune cells, neurons, endothelial cells as well as molecular components like metal ions, nutrient molecules. Recent research indicates that malignant tumor cells can manipulate the brain microenvironment to change the anti-tumoral to a pro-tumoral microenvironment, both before, during, and after BrM. This review compares the characteristics of the brain microenvironment in BrM with those in other sites or primary tumors. Furthermore, it evaluates the preclinical and clinical studies of microenvironment-targeted therapies for BrM. These therapies, due to their diversity, are expected to overcome drug resistance or low permeability of the BBB with low side effects and high specificity. This will ultimately lead to improved outcomes for patients with secondary brain tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lifu Long
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, HN, China
- XiangYa School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, HN, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, HN, China
| | - Zhenjie Yi
- XiangYa School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, HN, China
| | - Yu Zeng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, HN, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, HN, China
- *Correspondence: Yu Zeng, ; Zhixiong Liu,
| | - Zhixiong Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, HN, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, HN, China
- *Correspondence: Yu Zeng, ; Zhixiong Liu,
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18
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Li XG, Niu C, Lu P, Wan HW, Jin WD, Wang CX, Mao WY, Zhang ZP, Zhang WF, Li B. Screening and identification of hub-gene associated with brain metastasis in breast cancer. Medicine (Baltimore) 2023; 102:e32771. [PMID: 36800575 PMCID: PMC9935999 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000032771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The presence of breast cancer in the brain, also known as brain metastasis (BMS), is the primary reason for a bad prognosis in cases of breast cancer. Breast cancer is the most prevalent malignant tumor seen in women in developing nations. At present, there is no effective method to inhibit brain metastasis of breast cancer. Therefore, it is necessary to conduct a systematic study on BMS of breast cancer, which will not provide ideas and sites for follow-up studies on the treatment and inhibition of BMS. METHODS In this study, data set GSE43837 was screened from gene expression omnibus database, and then R language tool was used for differential analysis of its expression spectrum, The gene ontology functional enrichment and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes signal pathway enrichment analyses, as well as the interactive gene retrieval tool for hub-gene analysis, were performed. RESULTS According to the findings, the primary genes linked to breast cancer brain metastases are those that involve interactions between cytokines and their respective receptors and between neuroactive ligands and their respective receptors. The majority of the gene ontology enrichment took place in the extracellular structural tissues, the extracellular matrix tissues, and the second message-mediated signaling. We were able to identify 8 genes that are linked to breast cancer spreading to the brain. The gene score for matrix metallopeptidase1 (MMP-1) was the highest among them, and the genes MMP10, tumor necrosis factor alpha-inducible protein 8, collagen type I alpha 2 chain, vascular cell adhesion molecule 1, and TNF superfamily member 11 were all connected to 1 another in an interaction way. CONCLUSIONS There is a possibility that the 8 key genes that were identified in this research are connected to the progression of BMS in breast cancer. Among them, MMP1 is 1 that has the potential to have a role in the diagnosis and treatment of BMS in breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Gang Li
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Yunnan University, Kunming, China
| | - Chao Niu
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Yunnan University, Kunming, China
| | - Ping Lu
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Yunnan University, Kunming, China
| | - Hong-Wei Wan
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Yunnan University, Kunming, China
| | - Wen-Di Jin
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Yunnan University, Kunming, China
| | - Chun-Xiao Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Yunnan University, Kunming, China
| | - Wen-Yuan Mao
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Yunnan University, Kunming, China
| | - Zhi-Ping Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Yunnan University, Kunming, China
| | - Wan-Fu Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Yunnan University, Kunming, China
| | - Bo Li
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Yunnan University, Kunming, China
- * Correspondence: Bo Li, Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Yunnan University, Kunming 650021, China (e-mail: )
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19
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Żwierełło W, Maruszewska A, Skórka-Majewicz M, Gutowska I. Fluoride in the Central Nervous System and Its Potential Influence on the Development and Invasiveness of Brain Tumours-A Research Hypothesis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:1558. [PMID: 36675073 PMCID: PMC9866357 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this review is to attempt to outline the potential role of fluoride in the pathogenesis of brain tumours, including glioblastoma (GBM). In this paper, we show for the first time that fluoride can potentially affect the generally accepted signalling pathways implicated in the formation and clinical course of GBM. Fluorine compounds easily cross the blood-brain barrier. Enhanced oxidative stress, disruption of multiple cellular pathways, and microglial activation are just a few examples of recent reports on the role of fluoride in the central nervous system (CNS). We sought to present the key mechanisms underlying the development and invasiveness of GBM, as well as evidence on the current state of knowledge about the pleiotropic, direct, or indirect involvement of fluoride in the regulation of these mechanisms in various tissues, including neural and tumour tissue. The effects of fluoride on the human body are still a matter of controversy. However, given the growing incidence of brain tumours, especially in children, and numerous reports on the effects of fluoride on the CNS, it is worth taking a closer look at these mechanisms in the context of brain tumours, including gliomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wojciech Żwierełło
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Pomeranian Medical University, Powstańców Wlkp. 71 St., 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Maruszewska
- Department of Physiology and Biochemistry, Institute of Biology, University of Szczecin, Felczaka 3c St., 71-412 Szczecin, Poland
- Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Centre, Institute of Biology, University of Szczecin, Wąska 13 St., 71-415 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Marta Skórka-Majewicz
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Pomeranian Medical University, Powstańców Wlkp. 71 St., 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Izabela Gutowska
- Department of Medical Chemistry, Pomeranian Medical University, Powstańców Wlkp. 71 St., 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
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20
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He L, Liu J, Zhao HL, Zhang LC, Yu RL, Kang CM. De novo design of dual-target JAK2, SMO inhibitors based on deep reinforcement learning, molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2023; 638:23-27. [PMID: 36436338 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2022.11.017] [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: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) and HER2-positive breast cancer are particularly aggressive and the effectiveness of current therapies for them is limited. TNBC lacks effective therapies and HER2-positive cancer is often resistant to HER2-targeted drugs after an initial response. The recent studies have demonstrated that the combination of JAK2 inhibitors and SMO inhibitors can effectively inhibit the growth and metastasis of TNBC and HER2-positive drug resistant breast cancer cells. In this study, deep reinforcement learning was used to learn the characteristics of existing small molecule inhibitors of JAK2 and SMO, and to generate a novel library of small molecule compounds that may be able to inhibit both JAK2 and SMO. Subsequently, the molecule library was screened by molecular docking and a total of 7 compounds were selected out as dual inhibitors of JAK2 and SMO. Molecular dynamics simulations and binding free energies showed that the top three compounds stably bound to both JAK2 and SMO proteins. The binding free energies and hydrogen bond occupancy of key amino acids indicate that A8976 and A10625 has good properties and could be a potential dual-target inhibitor of JAK2 and SMO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei He
- College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266042, China
| | - Jin Liu
- College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266042, China
| | - Hui-Lin Zhao
- College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266042, China
| | - Li-Chuan Zhang
- College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266042, China
| | - Ri-Lei Yu
- Key Laboratory of Marine Drugs, Chinese Ministry of Education, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, China
| | - Cong-Min Kang
- College of Chemical Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266042, China.
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21
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Wang Y, Xia L, Lin J, Gong L, Xia Y, Xu Y, Liu L, Bao J, Zhang C, Chai Y, Li H. Thioridazine combined with carboplatin results in synergistic inhibition of triple negative breast cancer by targeting cancer stem cells. Transl Oncol 2022; 26:101549. [PMID: 36191461 PMCID: PMC9530598 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2022.101549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) are closely related to tumorigenesis and metastasis. Thioridazine (THZ) is a usual phenothiazine antipsychotic drug that can destroy CSCs. We aimed to explore whether THZ could sensitize metastatic TNBC cells, especially the CSCs, to carboplatin (CBP) treatment. Metastatic TNBC cells, 4T1 cells, and tumor-bearing mice were treated with THZ and CBP as monotherapy or combination therapy. MTT, flow cytometry, electron microscopy, immunohistochemistry and western blotting were applied to assess the cell viability, apoptosis, mitochondrial morphology and the relevant protein levels, respectively. Tumor size and lung metastasis under different treatments as well as tumorigenesis of residual tumor cells from each group were monitored. THZ combined with CBP inhibited 4T1 tumor cell proliferation and induced apoptosis by inhibiting the PI3K-AKT-mTOR pathway and activating estrogen receptor stress. THZ also showed strong activity against breast CSCs, THZ combined with CBP significantly destroyed cancer cells, inhibited lung metastasis and relieved the tumor burden; Our data demonstrated that THZ can sensitize TNBC cells to CBP treatment and this combination therapy may provide a bright strategy for TNBC treatment by targeting both cancer cells and CSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Wang
- Department of Oncology, The First People's Hospital of Hefei/The Third Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230061, Anhui, PR China
| | - Leiming Xia
- Department of Hematopathology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230002, Anhui, PR China
| | - Jing Lin
- Department of Oncology, The First People's Hospital of Hefei/The Third Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230061, Anhui, PR China
| | - Li Gong
- Department of Oncology, East District of First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 231600, Anhui, PR China
| | - Yang Xia
- Department of Oncology, Taizhou People's Hospital/The Affiliated Taizhou People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Taizhou 225300, Jiangsu, PR China
| | - Yang Xu
- Department of Oncology, The First People's Hospital of Hefei/The Third Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230061, Anhui, PR China
| | - Liu Liu
- Department of Oncology, The First People's Hospital of Hefei/The Third Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230061, Anhui, PR China
| | - Jian Bao
- Department of Oncology, The First People's Hospital of Hefei/The Third Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230061, Anhui, PR China
| | - Congshu Zhang
- Department of Oncology, The First People's Hospital of Hefei/The Third Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230061, Anhui, PR China
| | - Yuqing Chai
- Department of Oncology, The First People's Hospital of Hefei/The Third Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230061, Anhui, PR China
| | - Hongxia Li
- Department of Oncology, The First People's Hospital of Hefei/The Third Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230061, Anhui, PR China.
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22
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Su C, Zheng J, Chen S, Tuo J, Su J, Ou X, Chen S, Wang C. Identification of key genes associated with cancer stem cell characteristics in Wilms' tumor based on bioinformatics analysis. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2022; 10:1204. [PMID: 36544656 PMCID: PMC9761159 DOI: 10.21037/atm-22-4477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Background Nephroblastoma, also known as Wilms' tumor (WT), remains one of the major causes of tumor-related deaths worldwide in children. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are considered to be the main culprits in cancer resistance and disease recurrence, which are reported in multiple types of tumors. However, the research on CSCs in WT is limited. Therefore, our study aimed to identify the key genes related to CSCs in WT to provide new ideas for treating WT. Methods The RNA-seq and clinical data of WT samples were obtained from the University of California Santa Cruz (UCSC) Xena database, which included 120 WT and six para-cancerous tissues. The mRNA stemness index (mRNAsi) based on mRNA expression was calculated to evaluate tumor stem cell characteristics in WT patients. A Kaplan-Meier (KM) analysis was performed to explore the clinical characteristics of the mRNAsi in WT. A weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was used to identify the key modules and genes related to the mRNAsi. A Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis was performed to explore the signaling pathways based on the key genes. The expression levels of the key genes were validated by the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Further, the important upstream genes were identified by DisNor and gene co-expression analyses. Results The mRNAsi was significantly upregulated in WT (P=7.2e-05) and showed an upward trend in line with the pathological stage. Patients with lower mRNAsi scores had better overall survival (OS) than those with higher mRNAsi scores (P=0.0087). Eleven genes were defined as the key genes associated with the mRNAsi based on our WGCNA analysis [cor.MM (correlation. Module membership) >0.8 and cor.GS (correlation. Gene significance) >0.45] and were closely related to cell proliferation-related signaling pathways (P<0.05). Moreover, using protein interaction analysis, we identified ATM and CDKN1A as the key upstream regulatory genes of the 11 key genes. Conclusions Our study showed that the mRNAsi score was a potential prognostic factors in WT and identified the upstream genes ATM and CDKN1A and 11 genes closely related to the mRNAsi, which may provide new insights for CSC-targeted therapy in WT and improve clinical outcomes for WT patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Su
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Jie Zheng
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Siyu Chen
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Jinwei Tuo
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Jinxia Su
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Xiuyi Ou
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Shaohua Chen
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Congjun Wang
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
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23
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Wong GL, Manore SG, Doheny DL, Lo HW. STAT family of transcription factors in breast cancer: Pathogenesis and therapeutic opportunities and challenges. Semin Cancer Biol 2022; 86:84-106. [PMID: 35995341 PMCID: PMC9714692 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2022.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer and second-leading cause of cancer deaths in women. Breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) promote metastasis and therapeutic resistance contributing to tumor relapse. Through activating genes important for BCSCs, transcription factors contribute to breast cancer metastasis and therapeutic resistance, including the signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) family of transcription factors. The STAT family consists of six major isoforms, STAT1, STAT2, STAT3, STAT4, STAT5, and STAT6. Canonical STAT signaling is activated by the binding of an extracellular ligand to a cell-surface receptor followed by STAT phosphorylation, leading to STAT nuclear translocation and transactivation of target genes. It is important to note that STAT transcription factors exhibit diverse effects in breast cancer; some are either pro- or anti-tumorigenic while others maintain dual, context-dependent roles. Among the STAT transcription factors, STAT3 is the most widely studied STAT protein in breast cancer for its critical roles in promoting BCSCs, breast cancer cell proliferation, invasion, angiogenesis, metastasis, and immune evasion. Consequently, there have been substantial efforts in developing cancer therapeutics to target breast cancer with dysregulated STAT3 signaling. In this comprehensive review, we will summarize the diverse roles that each STAT family member plays in breast cancer pathobiology, as well as, the opportunities and challenges in pharmacologically targeting STAT proteins and their upstream activators in the context of breast cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace L Wong
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Sara G Manore
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Daniel L Doheny
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Hui-Wen Lo
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA; Breast Cancer Center of Excellence, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA; Wake Forest Baptist Comprehensive Cancer Center, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA.
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24
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van Bree NFHN, Wilhelm M. The Tumor Microenvironment of Medulloblastoma: An Intricate Multicellular Network with Therapeutic Potential. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:5009. [PMID: 36291792 PMCID: PMC9599673 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14205009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Revised: 10/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Medulloblastoma (MB) is a heterogeneous disease in which survival is highly affected by the underlying subgroup-specific characteristics. Although the current treatment modalities have increased the overall survival rates of MB up to 70-80%, MB remains a major cause of cancer-related mortality among children. This indicates that novel therapeutic approaches against MB are needed. New promising treatment options comprise the targeting of cells and components of the tumor microenvironment (TME). The TME of MB consists of an intricate multicellular network of tumor cells, progenitor cells, astrocytes, neurons, supporting stromal cells, microglia, immune cells, extracellular matrix components, and vasculature systems. In this review, we will discuss all the different components of the MB TME and their role in MB initiation, progression, metastasis, and relapse. Additionally, we briefly introduce the effect that age plays on the TME of brain malignancies and discuss the MB subgroup-specific differences in TME components and how all of these variations could affect the progression of MB. Finally, we highlight the TME-directed treatments, in which we will focus on therapies that are being evaluated in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Margareta Wilhelm
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology (MTC), Karolinska Institute, 17165 Stockholm, Sweden
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25
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Gimple RC, Yang K, Halbert ME, Agnihotri S, Rich JN. Brain cancer stem cells: resilience through adaptive plasticity and hierarchical heterogeneity. Nat Rev Cancer 2022; 22:497-514. [PMID: 35710946 DOI: 10.1038/s41568-022-00486-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Malignant brain tumours are complex ecosystems containing neoplastic and stromal components that generate adaptive and evolutionarily driven aberrant tissues in the central nervous system. Brain cancers are cultivated by a dynamic population of stem-like cells that enforce intratumoural heterogeneity and respond to intrinsic microenvironment or therapeutically guided insults through proliferation, plasticity and restructuring of neoplastic and stromal components. Far from a rigid hierarchy, heterogeneous neoplastic populations transition between cellular states with differential self-renewal capacities, endowing them with powerful resilience. Here we review the biological machinery used by brain tumour stem cells to commandeer tissues in the intracranial space, evade immune responses and resist chemoradiotherapy. Through recent advances in single-cell sequencing, improved models to investigate the role of the tumour microenvironment and a deeper understanding of the fundamental role of the immune system in cancer biology, we are now better equipped to explore mechanisms by which these processes can be exploited for therapeutic benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan C Gimple
- Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Kailin Yang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Taussig Cancer Center, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Matthew E Halbert
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Sameer Agnihotri
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Jeremy N Rich
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
- Department of Neurology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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26
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Doheny D, Manore S, Sirkisoon SR, Zhu D, Aguayo NR, Harrison A, Najjar M, Anguelov M, Cox AO, Furdui CM, Watabe K, Hollis T, Thomas A, Strowd R, Lo HW. An FDA-Approved Antifungal, Ketoconazole, and Its Novel Derivative Suppress tGLI1-Mediated Breast Cancer Brain Metastasis by Inhibiting the DNA-Binding Activity of Brain Metastasis-Promoting Transcription Factor tGLI1. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:4256. [PMID: 36077791 PMCID: PMC9454738 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14174256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The goal of this study is to identify pharmacological inhibitors that target a recently identified novel mediator of breast cancer brain metastasis (BCBM), truncated glioma-associated oncogene homolog 1 (tGLI1). Inhibitors of tGLI1 are not yet available. To identify compounds that selectively kill tGLI1-expressing breast cancer, we screened 1527 compounds using two sets of isogenic breast cancer and brain-tropic breast cancer cell lines engineered to stably express the control, GLI1, or tGLI1 vector, and identified the FDA-approved antifungal ketoconazole (KCZ) to selectively target tGLI1-positive breast cancer cells and breast cancer stem cells, but not tGLI1-negative breast cancer and normal cells. KCZ's effects are dependent on tGLI1. Two experimental mouse metastasis studies have demonstrated that systemic KCZ administration prevented the preferential brain metastasis of tGLI1-positive breast cancer and suppressed the progression of established tGLI1-positive BCBM without liver toxicities. We further developed six KCZ derivatives, two of which (KCZ-5 and KCZ-7) retained tGLI1-selectivity in vitro. KCZ-7 exhibited higher blood-brain barrier penetration than KCZ/KCZ-5 and more effectively reduced the BCBM frequency. In contrast, itraconazole, another FDA-approved antifungal, failed to suppress BCBM. The mechanistic studies suggest that KCZ and KCZ-7 inhibit tGLI1's ability to bind to DNA, activate its target stemness genes Nanog and OCT4, and promote tumor proliferation and angiogenesis. Our study establishes the rationale for using KCZ and KCZ-7 for treating and preventing BCBM and identifies their mechanism of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Doheny
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA
| | - Sara Manore
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA
| | - Sherona R. Sirkisoon
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA
| | - Dongqin Zhu
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA
| | - Noah R. Aguayo
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA
| | - Alexandria Harrison
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA
| | - Mariana Najjar
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA
| | - Marlyn Anguelov
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA
| | - Anderson O’Brien Cox
- Proteomics and Metabolomics Shared Resource, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA
| | - Cristina M. Furdui
- Proteomics and Metabolomics Shared Resource, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section on Molecular Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA
- Wake Forest Baptist Comprehensive Cancer Center, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA
| | - Kounosuke Watabe
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA
- Wake Forest Baptist Comprehensive Cancer Center, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA
| | - Thomas Hollis
- Wake Forest Baptist Comprehensive Cancer Center, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA
| | - Alexandra Thomas
- Wake Forest Baptist Comprehensive Cancer Center, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA
| | - Roy Strowd
- Wake Forest Baptist Comprehensive Cancer Center, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA
- Department of Neurology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA
| | - Hui-Wen Lo
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA
- Wake Forest Baptist Comprehensive Cancer Center, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA
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27
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Xu H, Zhang F, Gao X, Zhou Q, Zhu L. Fate decisions of breast cancer stem cells in cancer progression. Front Oncol 2022; 12:968306. [PMID: 36046046 PMCID: PMC9420991 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.968306] [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: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer has a marked recurrence and metastatic trait and is one of the most prevalent malignancies affecting women’s health worldwide. Tumor initiation and progression begin after the cell goes from a quiescent to an activated state and requires different mechanisms to act in concert to regulate t a specific set of spectral genes for expression. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) have been proven to initiate and drive tumorigenesis due to their capability of self-renew and differentiate. In addition, CSCs are believed to be capable of causing resistance to anti-tumor drugs, recurrence and metastasis. Therefore, exploring the origin, regulatory mechanisms and ultimate fate decision of CSCs in breast cancer outcomes has far-reaching clinical implications for the development of breast cancer stem cell (BCSC)-targeted therapeutic strategies. In this review, we will highlight the contribution of BCSCs to breast cancer and explore the internal and external factors that regulate the fate of BCSCs.
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28
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Sirkisoon SR, Wong GL, Aguayo NR, Doheny DL, Zhu D, Regua AT, Arrigo A, Manore SG, Wagner C, Thomas A, Singh R, Xing F, Jin G, Watabe K, Lo HW. Breast cancer extracellular vesicles-derived miR-1290 activates astrocytes in the brain metastatic microenvironment via the FOXA2→CNTF axis to promote progression of brain metastases. Cancer Lett 2022; 540:215726. [PMID: 35589002 PMCID: PMC9387054 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2022.215726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Mechanisms underlying breast cancer brain metastasis (BCBM) are still unclear. In this study, we observed that extracellular vesicles (EVs) secreted from breast cancer cells with increased expression of tGLI1, a BCBM-promoting transcription factor, strongly activated astrocytes. EV-derived microRNA/miRNA microarray revealed tGLI1-positive breast cancer cells highly secreted miR-1290 and miR-1246 encapsulated in EVs. Genetic knockin/knockout studies established a direct link between tGLI1 and both miRNAs. Datamining and analysis of patient samples revealed that BCBM patients had more circulating EV-miRs-1290/1246 than those without metastasis. Ectopic expression of miR-1290 or miR-1246 strongly activated astrocytes whereas their inhibitors abrogated the effect. Conditioned media from miR-1290- or miR-1246-overexpressing astrocytes promoted mammospheres. Furthermore, miRs-1290/1246 suppressed expression of FOXA2 transcription repressor, leading to CNTF cytokine secretion and subsequent activation of astrocytes. Finally, we conducted a mouse study to demonstrate that astrocytes overexpressing miR-1290, but not miR-1246, enhanced intracranial colonization and growth of breast cancer cells. Collectively, our findings demonstrate, for the first time, that breast cancer EV-derived miR-1290 and miR-1246 activate astrocytes in the brain metastatic microenvironment and that EV-derived miR-1290 promotes progression of brain metastases through the novel EV-miR-1290→FOXA2→CNTF signaling axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sherona R Sirkisoon
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Grace L Wong
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Noah R Aguayo
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Daniel L Doheny
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Dongqin Zhu
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Angelina T Regua
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Austin Arrigo
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Sara G Manore
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Calvin Wagner
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Alexandra Thomas
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA; Breast Cancer Center of Excellence, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA; Wake Forest Baptist Comprehensive Cancer Center, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Ravi Singh
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Fei Xing
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA; Breast Cancer Center of Excellence, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA; Wake Forest Baptist Comprehensive Cancer Center, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Guangxu Jin
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Kounosuke Watabe
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA; Breast Cancer Center of Excellence, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA; Wake Forest Baptist Comprehensive Cancer Center, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Hui-Wen Lo
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA; Breast Cancer Center of Excellence, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA; Wake Forest Baptist Comprehensive Cancer Center, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA.
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Ma L, He LN, Kang S, Gu B, Gao S, Zuo Z. Advances in detecting N6-methyladenosine modification in circRNAs. Methods 2022; 205:234-246. [PMID: 35878749 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2022.07.011] [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: 06/18/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a class of noncoding RNAs with covalently single-stranded closed loop structures derived from back-splicing event of linear precursor mRNAs (pre-mRNAs). N6-methyladenosine (m6A), the most abundant epigenetic modification in eukaryotic RNAs, has been shown to play a crucial role in regulating the fate and biological function of circRNAs, and thus affecting various physiological and pathological processes. Accurate identification of m6A modification in circRNAs is an essential step to fully elucidate the crosstalk between m6A and circRNAs. In recent years, the rapid development of high-throughput sequencing technology and bioinformatic methodology has propelled the establishment of a multitude of approaches to detect circRNAs and m6A modification, including in vitro-based and in silico methods. Based on this, the research community has started on a new journey to develop methods for identification of m6A modification in circRNAs. In this review, we provide a comprehensive review and evaluation of the existing methods responsible for detecting circRNAs, m6A modification, and especially, m6A modification in circRNAs, which mainly focused on those developed based on high-throughput technologies and methodology of bioinformatics. This handy reference can help researchers figure out towards which direction this field will go.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lixia Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, Henan Key Laboratory of Microbiome and Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Henan Key Laboratory of Cancer Epigenetics, Cancer Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital (College of Clinical Medical) of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Li-Na He
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shiyang Kang
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bianli Gu
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, Henan Key Laboratory of Microbiome and Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Henan Key Laboratory of Cancer Epigenetics, Cancer Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital (College of Clinical Medical) of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Shegan Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, Henan Key Laboratory of Microbiome and Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Henan Key Laboratory of Cancer Epigenetics, Cancer Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital (College of Clinical Medical) of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China.
| | - Zhixiang Zuo
- Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China.
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Hara T, Tominaga Y, Ueda K, Mihara K, Yanagihara K, Takei Y. Elevated METTL9 is associated with peritoneal dissemination in human scirrhous gastric cancers. Biochem Biophys Rep 2022; 30:101255. [PMID: 35402738 PMCID: PMC8983939 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrep.2022.101255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Revised: 03/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Toshifumi Hara
- Department of Medicinal Biochemistry, School of Pharmacy, Aichi Gakuin University, 1-100 Kusumoto-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, 464-8650, Japan
| | - Yuuki Tominaga
- Department of Medicinal Biochemistry, School of Pharmacy, Aichi Gakuin University, 1-100 Kusumoto-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, 464-8650, Japan
| | - Koji Ueda
- Project for Personalized Cancer Medicine, Cancer Precision Medicine Center, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, 3-8-31 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo, 135-8550, Japan
| | - Keichiro Mihara
- Department of International Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Fujita Health University, 1-98 Dengakugakubo, Kutsukake-cho, Toyoake, 470-1192, Japan
| | - Kazuyoshi Yanagihara
- Division of Translational Research, Exploratory Oncology and Clinical Trial Center, National Cancer Center Hospital East, 6-5-1 Kashiwanoha, Kashiwa, 277-8577, Japan
| | - Yoshifumi Takei
- Department of Medicinal Biochemistry, School of Pharmacy, Aichi Gakuin University, 1-100 Kusumoto-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, 464-8650, Japan
- Corresponding author.
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31
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Marin J, Journe F, Ghanem GE, Awada A, Kindt N. Cytokine Landscape in Central Nervous System Metastases. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10071537. [PMID: 35884845 PMCID: PMC9313120 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10071537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The central nervous system is the location of metastases in more than 40% of patients with lung cancer, breast cancer and melanoma. These metastases are associated with one of the poorest prognoses in advanced cancer patients, mainly due to the lack of effective treatments. In this review, we explore the involvement of cytokines, including interleukins and chemokines, during the development of brain and leptomeningeal metastases from the epithelial-to-mesenchymal cell transition and blood–brain barrier extravasation to the interaction between cancer cells and cells from the brain microenvironment, including astrocytes and microglia. Furthermore, the role of the gut–brain axis on cytokine release during this process will also be addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Marin
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Oncology (LOCE), Institut Jules Bordet, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), 1070 Brussels, Belgium; (J.M.); (F.J.); (G.E.G.); (A.A.)
| | - Fabrice Journe
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Oncology (LOCE), Institut Jules Bordet, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), 1070 Brussels, Belgium; (J.M.); (F.J.); (G.E.G.); (A.A.)
- Laboratory of Human Anatomy and Experimental Oncology, Institut Santé, Université de Mons (UMons), 7000 Mons, Belgium
| | - Ghanem E. Ghanem
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Oncology (LOCE), Institut Jules Bordet, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), 1070 Brussels, Belgium; (J.M.); (F.J.); (G.E.G.); (A.A.)
| | - Ahmad Awada
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Oncology (LOCE), Institut Jules Bordet, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), 1070 Brussels, Belgium; (J.M.); (F.J.); (G.E.G.); (A.A.)
- Department of Medical Oncology, Institut Jules Bordet, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), 1070 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Nadège Kindt
- Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Oncology (LOCE), Institut Jules Bordet, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), 1070 Brussels, Belgium; (J.M.); (F.J.); (G.E.G.); (A.A.)
- Correspondence:
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32
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Mampre D, Mehkri Y, Rajkumar S, Sriram S, Hernandez J, Lucke-Wold B, Chandra V. Treatment of breast cancer brain metastases: radiotherapy and emerging preclinical approaches. DIAGNOSTICS AND THERAPEUTICS 2022; 1:25-38. [PMID: 35782783 PMCID: PMC9249118 DOI: 10.55976/dt.1202216523-36] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
The breast is one of the common primary sites of brain metastases (BM). Radiotherapy for BM from breast cancer may include whole brain radiation therapy (WBRT), stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS), and stereotactic radiotherapy (SRT), but a consensus is difficult to reach because of the wide and varied protocols, indications, and outcomes of these interventions. Overall, dissemination of disease, patient functional status, and tumor size are all important factors in the decision of treatment with WBRT or SRS. Thus far, previous studies indicate that WBRT can improve tumor control compared to SRS, but increase side effects, however no randomized trials have compared the efficacy of these therapies in BM from breast cancer. Therapies targeting long non-coding RNAs and transcription factors, such as MALAT1, HOTAIR, lnc-BM, TGL1, and ATF3, have the potential to both prevent metastatic spread and treat BM with improved radiosensitivity. Given the propensity for HER2+ breast cancer to develop BM, the above-mentioned cell lines may represent an important target for future investigations, and the development of everolimus and pyrotinib are equally important.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Mampre
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Yusuf Mehkri
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | | | - Sai Sriram
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | - Jairo Hernandez
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
| | | | - Vyshak Chandra
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
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33
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Menendez JA, Lupu R. Fatty acid synthase: A druggable driver of breast cancer brain metastasis. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2022; 26:427-444. [PMID: 35545806 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2022.2077189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Brain metastasis (BrM) is a key contributor to morbidity and mortality in breast cancer patients, especially among high-risk epidermal growth factor receptor 2-positive (HER2+) and triple-negative/basal-like molecular subtypes. Optimal management of BrM is focused on characterizing a "BrM dependency map" to prioritize targetable therapeutic vulnerabilities. AREAS COVERED We review recent studies addressing the targeting of BrM in the lipid-deprived brain environment, which selects for brain-tropic breast cancer cells capable of cell-autonomously generating fatty acids by upregulating de novo lipogenesis via fatty acid synthase (FASN). Disruption of FASN activity impairs breast cancer growth in the brain, but not extracranially, and mapping of the molecular causes of organ-specific patterns of metastasis has uncovered an enrichment of lipid metabolism signatures in brain metastasizing cells. Targeting SREBP1-the master regulator of lipogenic gene transcription-curtails the ability of breast cancer cells to survive in the brain microenvironment. EXPERT OPINION Targeting FASN represents a new therapeutic opportunity for patients with breast cancer and BrM. Delivery of brain-permeable FASN inhibitors and identifying strategies to target metabolic plasticity that might compensate for impaired brain FASN activity are two potential roadblocks that may hinder FASN-centered strategies against BrM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier A Menendez
- Metabolism and Cancer Group, Program Against Cancer Therapeutic Resistance (ProCURE), Catalan Institute of Oncology, 17007 Girona, Spain.,Girona Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBGI), 17190 Girona, Spain
| | - Ruth Lupu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Division of Experimental Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Laboratory, Mayo Clinic Minnesota, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.,Mayo Clinic Cancer Center, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
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Gli1 promotes epithelial–mesenchymal transition and metastasis of non-small cell lung carcinoma by regulating Snail transcriptional activity and stability. Acta Pharm Sin B 2022; 12:3877-3890. [PMID: 36213531 PMCID: PMC9532560 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2022.05.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Metastasis is crucial for the mortality of non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) patients. The epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) plays a critical role in regulating tumor metastasis. Glioma-associated oncogene 1 (Gli1) is aberrantly active in a series of tumor tissues. However, the molecular regulatory relationships between Gli1 and NSCLC metastasis have not yet been identified. Herein, we reported Gli1 promoted NSCLC metastasis. High Gli1 expression was associated with poor survival of NSCLC patients. Ectopic expression of Gli1 in low metastatic A549 and NCI-H460 cells enhanced their migration, invasion abilities and facilitated EMT process, whereas knock-down of Gli1 in high metastatic NCI-H1299 and NCI-H1703 cells showed an opposite effect. Notably, Gli1 overexpression accelerated the lung and liver metastasis of NSCLC in the intravenously injected metastasis model. Further research showed that Gli1 positively regulated Snail expression by binding to its promoter and enhancing its protein stability, thereby facilitating the migration, invasion and EMT of NSCLC. In addition, administration of GANT-61, a Gli1 inhibitor, obviously suppressed the metastasis of NSCLC. Collectively, our study reveals that Gli1 is a critical regulator for NSCLC metastasis and suggests that targeting Gli1 is a prospective therapy strategy for metastatic NSCLC.
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35
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Baker AR, Miliotis C, Ramírez-Moya J, Marc T, Vlachos IS, Santisteban P, Slack FJ. Transcriptome profiling of ADAR1 targets in triple-negative breast cancer cells reveals mechanisms for regulating growth and invasion. Mol Cancer Res 2022; 20:960-971. [PMID: 35247916 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-21-0604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
ADARs catalyze Adenosine-to-Inosine (A-to-I) editing of double-stranded RNA and regulate global gene expression output through interactions with RNA and other proteins. ADARs play important roles in development and disease, and previous work has shown that ADAR1 is oncogenic in a growing list of cancer types. Here we show that ADAR1 is a critical gene for triple-negative breast cancer cells, as ADAR1 loss results in reduced growth (viability and cell cycle progression), invasion, and mammosphere formation. Whole transcriptome sequencing analyses demonstrate that ADAR1 regulates both coding and non-coding targets by altering gene expression level, A-to-I editing, and splicing. We determine that a recoding edit in filamin B (FLNB chr3:58156064) reduces the tumor suppressive activities of the protein to promote growth and invasion. We also show that several tumor suppressor microRNAs are upregulated upon ADAR1 loss and suppress cell cycle progression and invasion. Implications: This work describes several novel mechanisms of ADAR1-mediated oncogenesis in triple-negative breast cancer, providing support to strategies targeting ADAR1 in this aggressive cancer type that has few treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Julia Ramírez-Moya
- Boston Children's Hospital / Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | | | | | - Pilar Santisteban
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomedicas CSIC/UAM, Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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36
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Shen Y, Zhang B, Wei X, Guan X, Zhang W. CXCL8 is a prognostic biomarker and correlated with TNBC brain metastasis and immune infiltration. Int Immunopharmacol 2021; 103:108454. [PMID: 34929481 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2021.108454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 11/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Patients with TNBC are associated with an increased risk of developing brain metastasis and shortest median survival post-brain metastasis-diagnosis. However, the regulatory mechanism of TNBC brain metastasis has not been addressed. Here, by a series of integrated analyses of differential gene expression profile from brain metastases and primary triple negative breast cancer, we identified 15 differentially expressed genes in both TNBC brain metastasis tissue samples and TNBC brain metastasis cell line. After analyzing the prognostic value of those 15 differentially expressed genes, we found that CXCL8 was the only gene associated with multiple prognostic indicators in both all-breast cancer and TNBC populations. Functional and pathway enrichment analyses demonstrated that CXCL8 was associated with humoral immune response and immune cell infiltration. CXCL8 expression had a positive correlation with three immune-related scores (ImmuneScore, ESTIMATEScore and StromalScore), and multiple types of immune cell infiltration, including macrophages, neutrophils and Th1 cells. Besides, we also verified the prometastatic effect of CXCL8, by treating MDA-MB-231 and Hs578t cells with different concentrations of recombinant human CXCL8. Taken together, our results suggest that CXCL8 can be used as a prognostic biomarker and is associated with TNBC brain metastasis and immune infiltration. Our findings provide a new perspective on TNBC brain metastasis and illustrate great potential to develop new CXCL8-targeted therapy for clinical TNBC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunzhu Shen
- Department of Oncology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Baoguo Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaowei Wei
- Department of Oncology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Xiaoxiang Guan
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China; Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Personalized Cancer Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Wenwen Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
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37
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Qi Y, Wei J, Zhang X. Requirement of transcription factor NME2 for the maintenance of the stemness of gastric cancer stem-like cells. Cell Death Dis 2021; 12:924. [PMID: 34628473 PMCID: PMC8502175 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-021-04234-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 09/05/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs), which can self-renew and produce heterogeneous cancer cells, are the key factors during tumorigenesis. Transcription factors take essential effects on CSCs. However, the role of transcription factors in regulating the stemness of gastric cancer stem-like cells has not been well explored. In this investigation, it was found that transcription factor NME2 (NME/NM23 nucleoside diphosphate kinase 2) was upregulated in gastric cancer stem-like cells that sorted from the solid tumors of patients with gastric cancer and gastric cancer cell lines. NME2 could preserve the stemness of gastric cancer stem-like cells via suppressing their apoptosis. In vitro and in vivo data revealed that NME2 was crucial for maintaining the stemness of gastric cancer stem cells by enhancing the expression of anti-apoptosis genes. Consequently, our data contributed a new perspective to the relationship between transcription factor and the stemness maintenance of gastric cancer stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaxin Qi
- College of Life Sciences and Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology of Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun Wei
- Chengdu No.7 Ba Yi School, Chengdu, 610036, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaobo Zhang
- College of Life Sciences and Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology of Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, People's Republic of China.
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38
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Joe NS, Hodgdon C, Kraemer L, Redmond KJ, Stearns V, Gilkes DM. A common goal to CARE: Cancer Advocates, Researchers, and Clinicians Explore current treatments and clinical trials for breast cancer brain metastases. NPJ Breast Cancer 2021; 7:121. [PMID: 34521857 PMCID: PMC8440644 DOI: 10.1038/s41523-021-00326-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women worldwide. Approximately one-tenth of all patients with advanced breast cancer develop brain metastases resulting in an overall survival rate of fewer than 2 years. The challenges lie in developing new approaches to treat, monitor, and prevent breast cancer brain metastasis (BCBM). This review will provide an overview of BCBM from the integrated perspective of clinicians, researchers, and patient advocates. We will summarize the current management of BCBM, including diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring. We will highlight ongoing translational research for BCBM, including clinical trials and improved detection methods that can become the mainstay for BCBM treatment if they demonstrate efficacy. We will discuss preclinical BCBM research that focuses on the intrinsic properties of breast cancer cells and the influence of the brain microenvironment. Finally, we will spotlight emerging studies and future research needs to improve survival outcomes and preserve the quality of life for patients with BCBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie S Joe
- Department of Oncology, The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Cellular and Molecular Medicine Program, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Christine Hodgdon
- INSPIRE (Influencing Science through Patient-Informed Research & Education) Advocacy Program, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Kristin J Redmond
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Molecular Radiation Sciences, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Vered Stearns
- Department of Oncology, The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- INSPIRE (Influencing Science through Patient-Informed Research & Education) Advocacy Program, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Daniele M Gilkes
- Department of Oncology, The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Cellular and Molecular Medicine Program, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- INSPIRE (Influencing Science through Patient-Informed Research & Education) Advocacy Program, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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Bryan S, Witzel I, Borgmann K, Oliveira-Ferrer L. Molecular Mechanisms Associated with Brain Metastases in HER2-Positive and Triple Negative Breast Cancers. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:4137. [PMID: 34439289 PMCID: PMC8392331 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13164137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is the most frequent cause of cancer-associated death for women worldwide, with deaths commonly resulting from metastatic spread to distant organs. Approximately 30% of metastatic BC patients develop brain metastases (BM), a currently incurable diagnosis. The influence of BC molecular subtype and gene expression on breast cancer brain metastasis (BCBM) development and patient prognosis is undeniable and is, therefore, an important focus point in the attempt to combat the disease. The HER2-positive and triple-negative molecular subtypes are associated with an increased risk of developing BCBM. Several genetic and molecular mechanisms linked to HER2-positive and triple-negative BC breast cancers appear to influence BCBM formation on several levels, including increased development of circulating tumor cells (CTCs), enhanced epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and migration of primary BC cells to the brain and/or through superior local invasiveness aided by cancer stem-like cells (CSCs). These specific BC characteristics, together with the ensuing developments at a clinical level, are presented in this review article, drawing a connection between research findings and related therapeutic strategies aimed at preventing BCBM formation and/or progression. Furthermore, we briefly address the critical limitations in our current understanding of this complex topic, highlighting potential focal points for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Bryan
- Department of Gynaecology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany; (S.B.); (I.W.)
| | - Isabell Witzel
- Department of Gynaecology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany; (S.B.); (I.W.)
| | - Kerstin Borgmann
- Center of Oncology, Laboratory of Radiobiology & Experimental Radiooncology, Department of Radiotherapy and Radiooncology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20251 Hamburg, Germany;
| | - Leticia Oliveira-Ferrer
- Department of Gynaecology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, 20246 Hamburg, Germany; (S.B.); (I.W.)
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40
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Wang C, Jing J, Hu X, Yu S, Yao F, Li Z, Cheng L. Gankyrin activates the hedgehog signalling to drive metastasis in osteosarcoma. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 25:6232-6241. [PMID: 34089292 PMCID: PMC8366451 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.16576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Revised: 04/11/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Gankyrin is a regulatory subunit of the 26-kD proteasome complex and promotes the occurrence and progression of many malignancies. However, the role of gankyrin in osteosarcoma (OS) metastasis remains unclear. Hedgehog signalling has been shown to regulate stem cell homeostasis and cancer metastasis, but the mechanisms that activate this pathway in OS are still poorly understood. Here, a series of in vitro and in vivo assays were carried out to explore the function and mechanism of gankyrin regulating Hedgehog signalling in OS. We demonstrated that gankyrin promotes migration, invasion and regulates the expression of some stemness factors by up-regulating Gli1 in OS. Importantly, our data showed an interaction between gankyrin and Gli1. Moreover, gankyrin suppresses the ubiquitin-mediated degradation of Gli1 protein in OS. Gankyrin also significantly promotes the lung metastasis of OS in vivo. Our findings suggest that gankyrin drives metastasis and regulates the expression of some stemness factors in osteosarcoma by activating Hedgehog signalling, indicating that drug screening for compounds targeting gankyrin may contribute to the development of novel and effective therapies for OS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chongchong Wang
- Department of OncologyThe Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical UniversityHefeiChina
| | - Juehua Jing
- Department of OrthopaedicsThe Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical UniversityHefeiChina
| | - Xuyang Hu
- Department of OrthopaedicsThe Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical UniversityHefeiChina
| | - Shuisheng Yu
- Department of OrthopaedicsThe Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical UniversityHefeiChina
| | - Fei Yao
- Department of OrthopaedicsThe Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical UniversityHefeiChina
| | - Ziyu Li
- Department of OrthopaedicsThe Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical UniversityHefeiChina
| | - Li Cheng
- Department of OrthopaedicsThe Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical UniversityHefeiChina
- School of pharmacyAnhui Medical UniversityHefeiChina
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Hua Z, White J, Zhou J. Cancer stem cells in TNBC. Semin Cancer Biol 2021; 82:26-34. [PMID: 34147641 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2021.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2020] [Revised: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a broad collection of breast cancer that tests negative for estrogen receptors (ER), progesterone receptors (PR), and excess human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) protein. TNBC is considered to have poorer prognosis than other types of breast cancer because of a lack of effective therapeutic targets. The success of precision cancer therapies relies on the clarification of key molecular mechanisms that drive tumor growth and metastasis; however, TNBC is highly heterogeneous in terms of their cellular lineage composition and the molecular nature within each individual case. In particular, the rare and sometimes slow cycling cancer stem cells (CSCs) can provide effective means for TNBC to resist various treatments. Single cell analysis technologies, including single-cell RNA-seq (scRNA-seq) and proteomics, provide an avenue to unravel patient-level intratumoral heterogeneity by identifying CSCs populations, CSC biomarkers and the range of tumor microenvironment cellular constituents that contribute to tumor growth. This review discusses the emerging evidence for the role of CSCs in driving TNBC incidence and the therapeutic implications in manipulating molecular signaling against this rare cell population for the control of this deadly disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhan Hua
- Department of General Surgery, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, 100029, People's Republic of China
| | - Jason White
- Tuskegee University, Center for Cancer Research, Tuskegee, AL, 36830, USA
| | - Jianjun Zhou
- Research Center for Translational Medicine, Cancer Stem Cell Institute, East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200120, People's Republic of China.
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42
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TrkA Interacts with and Phosphorylates STAT3 to Enhance Gene Transcription and Promote Breast Cancer Stem Cells in Triple-Negative and HER2-Enriched Breast Cancers. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13102340. [PMID: 34066153 PMCID: PMC8150921 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13102340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Breast cancer is the leading cancer in American women. Due to the inherent aggressiveness of triple-negative and HER2-enriched breast cancers, it is imperative to identify novel molecular targets for therapeutic intervention. Due to their abnormal activities in metastatic breast cancers, JAK2–STAT3 and TrkA pathways have been individually implicated in aggressive breast tumors. However, their co-activation and signaling interactions have not been thoroughly investigated. Therefore, our study aimed to elucidate the extent of crosstalk between JAK2–STAT3 and TrkA signaling pathways and its impact on breast cancer. Our data revealed a novel interaction between TrkA and STAT3, and that this interaction results in STAT3 phosphorylation and activation by TrkA, leading to enhanced stemness gene expression and stem cell renewal. We further found that the co-activation of JAK2–STAT3 and TrkA pathways is correlated with shorter time to develop overall and organ-specific metastasis, suggesting that this signaling crosstalk underlies the aggressiveness of triple-negative and HER2-enriched breast cancers. Abstract JAK2–STAT3 and TrkA signaling pathways have been separately implicated in aggressive breast cancers; however, whether they are co-activated or undergo functional interaction has not been thoroughly investigated. Herein we report, for the first time that STAT3 and TrkA are significantly co-overexpressed and co-activated in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) and HER2-enriched breast cancer, as shown by immunohistochemical staining and data mining. Through immunofluorescence staining–confocal microscopy and immunoprecipitation–Western blotting, we found that TrkA and STAT3 co-localize and physically interact in the cytoplasm, and the interaction is dependent on STAT3-Y705 phosphorylation. TrkA–STAT3 interaction leads to STAT3 phosphorylation at Y705 by TrkA in breast cancer cells and cell-free kinase assays, indicating that STAT3 is a novel substrate of TrkA. β-NGF-mediated TrkA activation induces TrkA–STAT3 interaction, STAT3 nuclear transport and transcriptional activity, and the expression of STAT3 target genes, SOX2 and MYC. The co-activation of both pathways promotes breast cancer stem cells. Finally, we found that TNBC and HER2-enriched breast cancer with JAK2–STAT3 and TrkA co-activation are positively associated with poor overall metastasis-free and organ-specific metastasis-free survival. Collectively, our study uncovered that TrkA is a novel activating kinase of STAT3, and their co-activation enhances gene transcription and promotes breast cancer stem cells in TNBC and HER2-enriched breast cancer.
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Quinn CH, Beierle AM, Beierle EA. Artificial Tumor Microenvironments in Neuroblastoma. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13071629. [PMID: 33915765 PMCID: PMC8037559 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13071629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Children with high-risk neuroblastoma have limited therapeutic options poor survival rates. The neuroblastoma tumor microenvironment contributes the lack of response to many interventions so innovative methods are needed to study the effects of the tumor microenvironment on new therapies. In this manuscript, we review the current literature related to the components of the tumor microenvironment and to the use of three-dimensional printing as modality to study cancer. This review highlights the potential for using three-dimensional printing to create an artificial tumor microenvironment in the presence of neuroblastoma to provide improved preclinical testing of novel therapies. Abstract In the quest to advance neuroblastoma therapeutics, there is a need to have a deeper understanding of the tumor microenvironment (TME). From extracellular matrix proteins to tumor associated macrophages, the TME is a robust and diverse network functioning in symbiosis with the solid tumor. Herein, we review the major components of the TME including the extracellular matrix, cytokines, immune cells, and vasculature that support a more aggressive neuroblastoma phenotype and encumber current therapeutic interventions. Contemporary treatments for neuroblastoma are the result of traditional two-dimensional culture studies and in vivo models that have been translated to clinical trials. These pre-clinical studies are costly, time consuming, and neglect the study of cofounding factors such as the contributions of the TME. Three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting has become a novel approach to studying adult cancers and is just now incorporating portions of the TME and advancing to study pediatric solid. We review the methods of 3D bioprinting, how researchers have included TME pieces into the prints, and highlight present studies using neuroblastoma. Ultimately, incorporating the elements of the TME that affect neuroblastoma responses to therapy will improve the development of innovative and novel treatments. The use of 3D bioprinting to achieve this aim will prove useful in developing optimal therapies for children with neuroblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colin H. Quinn
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35205, USA;
| | - Andee M. Beierle
- Division of Radiation Oncology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35205, USA;
| | - Elizabeth A. Beierle
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35205, USA;
- Correspondence:
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Zhang R, Tu J, Liu S. Novel molecular regulators of breast cancer stem cell plasticity and heterogeneity. Semin Cancer Biol 2021; 82:11-25. [PMID: 33737107 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2021.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Revised: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Tumors consist of heterogeneous cell populations, and tumor heterogeneity plays key roles in regulating tumorigenesis, metastasis, recurrence and resistance to anti-tumor therapies. More and more studies suggest that cancer stem cells (CSCs) promote tumorigenesis, metastasis, recurrence and drug resistance as well as are the major source for heterogeneity of cancer cells. CD24-CD44+ and ALDH+ are the most common markers for breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs). Previous studies showed that different BCSC markers label different BCSC populations, indicating the heterogeneity of BCSCs. Therefore, defining the regulation mechanisms of heterogeneous BCSCs is essential for precisely targeting BCSCs and treating breast cancer. In this review, we summarized the novel regulators existed in BCSCs and their niches for BCSC heterogeneity which has been discovered in recent years, and discussed their regulation mechanisms and the latest corresponding cancer treatments, which will extend our understanding on BCSC heterogeneity and plasticity, and provide better prognosis prediction and more efficient novel therapeutic strategies for breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Zhang
- Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center & Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Cancer Institutes, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, The Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, The International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Juchuanli Tu
- Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center & Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Cancer Institutes, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, The Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, The International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Suling Liu
- Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center & Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Cancer Institutes, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai, The Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, The International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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Nakayama J, Han Y, Kuroiwa Y, Azuma K, Yamamoto Y, Semba K. The In Vivo Selection Method in Breast Cancer Metastasis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:1886. [PMID: 33672831 PMCID: PMC7918415 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22041886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Metastasis is a complex event in cancer progression and causes most deaths from cancer. Repeated transplantation of metastatic cancer cells derived from transplanted murine organs can be used to select the population of highly metastatic cancer cells; this method is called as in vivo selection. The in vivo selection method and highly metastatic cancer cell lines have contributed to reveal the molecular mechanisms of cancer metastasis. Here, we present an overview of the methodology for the in vivo selection method. Recent comparative analysis of the transplantation methods for metastasis have revealed the divergence of metastasis gene signatures. Even cancer cells that metastasize to the same organ show various metastatic cascades and gene expression patterns by changing the transplantation method for the in vivo selection. These findings suggest that the selection of metastasis models for the study of metastasis gene signatures has the potential to influence research results. The study of novel gene signatures that are identified from novel highly metastatic cell lines and patient-derived xenografts (PDXs) will be helpful for understanding the novel mechanisms of metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Nakayama
- Division of Cellular Signaling, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan; (Y.K.); (Y.Y.)
| | - Yuxuan Han
- Department of Life Science and Medical Bioscience, School of Advanced Science and Engineering, Waseda University, Tokyo 162-8480, Japan; (Y.H.); (K.A.); (K.S.)
| | - Yuka Kuroiwa
- Division of Cellular Signaling, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan; (Y.K.); (Y.Y.)
- Department of Life Science and Medical Bioscience, School of Advanced Science and Engineering, Waseda University, Tokyo 162-8480, Japan; (Y.H.); (K.A.); (K.S.)
| | - Kazushi Azuma
- Department of Life Science and Medical Bioscience, School of Advanced Science and Engineering, Waseda University, Tokyo 162-8480, Japan; (Y.H.); (K.A.); (K.S.)
| | - Yusuke Yamamoto
- Division of Cellular Signaling, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo 104-0045, Japan; (Y.K.); (Y.Y.)
| | - Kentaro Semba
- Department of Life Science and Medical Bioscience, School of Advanced Science and Engineering, Waseda University, Tokyo 162-8480, Japan; (Y.H.); (K.A.); (K.S.)
- Department of Cell Factory, Translational Research Center, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan
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Li C, Qiu J, Xue Y. Low-dose Diosbulbin-B (DB) activates tumor-intrinsic PD-L1/NLRP3 signaling pathway mediated pyroptotic cell death to increase cisplatin-sensitivity in gastric cancer (GC). Cell Biosci 2021; 11:38. [PMID: 33579380 PMCID: PMC7881658 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-021-00548-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Emerging evidences suggests that Diosbulbin-B (DB) is effective to improve cisplatin (DDP)-sensitivity in gastric cancer (GC), but its molecular mechanisms were not fully delineated, and this study managed to investigate this issue. Methods Genes expressions were determined by Real-Time qPCR and Western Blot at transcriptional and translational levels. Cell proliferation and viability were evaluated by cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) and trypan blue staining assay. Annexin V-FITC/PI double staining assay was used to examine cell apoptosis. The Spheroid formation assay was used to evaluated cell stemness. The xenograft tumor-bearing mice models were established, and the tumors were monitored and the immunohistochemistry (IHC) was employed to examine the expressions and localization of Ki67 protein in mice tumor tissues. Results Low-dose DB (12.5 μM) downregulated PD-L1 to activate NLRP3-mediated pyroptosis, and inhibited cancer stem cells (CSCs) properties, to sensitize cisplatin-resistant GC (CR-GC) cells to cisplatin. Mechanistically, the CR-GC cells were obtained, and either low-dose DB or cisplatin alone had little effects on cell viability in CR-GC cells, while low-dose DB significantly induced apoptotic cell death in cisplatin treated CR-GC cells. In addition, low-dose DB triggered cell pyroptosis in CR-GC cells co-treated with cisplatin, which were abrogated by silencing NLRP3. Next, CSCs tended to be enriched in CR-GC cells, instead of their parental cisplatin-sensitive GC (CS-GC) cells, and low-dose DB inhibited spheroid formation and stemness biomarkers (SOX2, OCT4 and Nanog) expressions to eliminate CSCs in CR-GC cells, which were reversed by upregulating programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1). Furthermore, we proved that PD-L1 negatively regulated NLRP3 in CR-GC cells, and low-dose DB activated NLRP3-mediated pyroptotic cell death in cisplatin treated CR-GC cells by downregulating PD-L1. Also, low-dose DB aggravated the inhibiting effects of cisplatin on tumorigenesis of CR-GC cells in vivo. Conclusions Collectively, low-dose DB regulated intrinsic PD-L1/NLRP3 pathway to improve cisplatin-sensitivity in CR-GC cells, and this study provided alternative therapy treatments for GC.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunfeng Li
- Gastrointestinal Surgical Ward, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Haping Road 150, Harbin, 150081, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Junqiang Qiu
- Department of Inorganic Chemistry and Analytical Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Hainan Medical University, Xueyuan Road No. 3, Haikou, 571199, Hainan, China
| | - Yingwei Xue
- Gastrointestinal Surgical Ward, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Haping Road 150, Harbin, 150081, Heilongjiang, China.
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Lu Y, Zhu Y, Deng S, Chen Y, Li W, Sun J, Xu X. Targeting the Sonic Hedgehog Pathway to Suppress the Expression of the Cancer Stem Cell (CSC)-Related Transcription Factors and CSC-Driven Thyroid Tumor Growth. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13030418. [PMID: 33499351 PMCID: PMC7866109 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13030418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Revised: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Poorly differentiated and anaplastic thyroid cancers respond poorly to surgery, radiation, and hormone therapy. Cancer stem cells play an important role in tumor growth, drug resistance, and recurrence. This study focuses on how the sonic hedgehog (Shh) pathway maintains thyroid cancer stem cell self-renewal and whether it can be targeted for anticancer therapy. The authors report that the Shh pathway regulates the expression of BMI1 and SOX2, two genes involved in stem cell self-renewal, and that targeting the Shh pathway has little effect on thyroid tumor xenografts but can inhibit the growth of tumor xenografts derived from thyroid cancer stem cells. This study advances the knowledge on how thyroid cancer stem cells regenerate and highlights the potential therapeutic values of targeting the Shh pathway. Abstract The sonic hedgehog (Shh) pathway plays important roles in tumorigenesis, tumor growth, drug resistance, and metastasis. We and others have reported earlier that this pathway is highly activated in thyroid cancer. However, its role in thyroid cancer stem cell (CSC) self-renewal and tumor development remains incompletely understood. B lymphoma Mo-MLV insertion region 1 homolog (BMI1) and SRY-Box Transcription Factor 2 (SOX2) are two CSC-related transcription factors that have been implicated in promoting CSC self-renewal. The objective of our current investigation was to determine the role of the Shh pathway in regulating BMI1 and SOX2 expression in thyroid cancer and promoting thyroid tumor growth and development. Here we report that inhibition of the Shh pathway by Gli1 siRNA or by cyclopamine and GANT61 reduced BMI1 and SOX2 expression in SW1736 and KAT-18 cells, two anaplastic thyroid cancer cell lines. The opposite results were obtained in cells overexpressing Gli1 or its downstream transcription factor Snail. The Shh pathway regulated SOX2 and BMI1 expression at a transcriptional and post-transcriptional level, respectively. GANT61 treatment suppressed the growth of SW1736 CSC-derived tumor xenografts but did not significantly inhibit the growth of tumors grown from bulk tumor cells. Clinicopathological analyses of thyroid tumor specimens by immunohistochemical (IHC) staining revealed that BMI1 and SOX2 were highly expressed in thyroid cancer and correlated with Gli1 expression. Our study provides evidence that activation of the Shh pathway leads to increased BMI1 and SOX2 expression in thyroid cancer and promotes thyroid CSC-driven tumor initiation. Targeting the Shh pathway may have therapeutic value for treating thyroid cancer and preventing recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yurong Lu
- Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China; (Y.L.); (Y.Z.); (S.D.); (Y.C.); (J.S.)
| | - Yiwen Zhu
- Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China; (Y.L.); (Y.Z.); (S.D.); (Y.C.); (J.S.)
| | - Shihan Deng
- Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China; (Y.L.); (Y.Z.); (S.D.); (Y.C.); (J.S.)
| | - Yuhuang Chen
- Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China; (Y.L.); (Y.Z.); (S.D.); (Y.C.); (J.S.)
| | - Wei Li
- College of Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China;
| | - Jing Sun
- Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China; (Y.L.); (Y.Z.); (S.D.); (Y.C.); (J.S.)
| | - Xiulong Xu
- Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China; (Y.L.); (Y.Z.); (S.D.); (Y.C.); (J.S.)
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonosis, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-514-8797-7382; Fax: +86-514-8797-7046
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Dionísio MR, Vieira AF, Carvalho R, Conde I, Oliveira M, Gomes M, Pinto MT, Pereira P, Pimentel J, Souza C, Marques MMC, Duval da Silva V, Barroso A, Preto D, Cameselle-Teijeiro JF, Schmitt F, Ribeiro AS, Paredes J. BR-BCSC Signature: The Cancer Stem Cell Profile Enriched in Brain Metastases that Predicts a Worse Prognosis in Lymph Node-Positive Breast Cancer. Cells 2020; 9:cells9112442. [PMID: 33182375 PMCID: PMC7695320 DOI: 10.3390/cells9112442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Revised: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 11/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain metastases remain an unmet clinical need in breast oncology, being frequently found in HER2-overexpressing and triple-negative carcinomas. These tumors were reported to be highly cancer stem-like cell-enriched, suggesting that brain metastases probably arise by the seeding of cancer cells with stem features. Accordingly, we found that brain-tropic breast cancer cells show increased stem cell activity and tumorigenic capacity in the chick embryo choriallantoic membrane when compared to the parental cell line. These observations were supported by a significant increase in their stem cell frequency and by the enrichment for the breast cancer stem cell (BCSC) phenotype CD44+CD24−/low. Based on this data, the expression of BCSC markers (CD44, CD49f, P-cadherin, EpCAM, and ALDH1) was determined and found to be significantly enriched in breast cancer brain metastases when compared to primary tumors. Therefore, a brain (BR)-BCSC signature was defined (3–5 BCSC markers), which showed to be associated with decreased brain metastases-free and overall survival. Interestingly, this signature significantly predicted a worse prognosis in lymph node-positive patients, acting as an independent prognostic factor. Thus, an enrichment of a BCSC signature was found in brain metastases, which can be used as a new prognostic factor in clinically challenging breast cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Rita Dionísio
- Epithelial Interactions in Cancer (EPIC) group, i3S, Institute of Investigation and Innovation in Health, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; (M.R.D.); (A.F.V.); (R.C.); (I.C.); (M.O.); (M.G.); (M.T.P.); (F.S.); (A.S.R.)
- IPATIMUP- Institute of Pathology and Immunology, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Norte, 1649-035 Lisboa, Portugal; (P.P.); (J.P.)
| | - André F. Vieira
- Epithelial Interactions in Cancer (EPIC) group, i3S, Institute of Investigation and Innovation in Health, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; (M.R.D.); (A.F.V.); (R.C.); (I.C.); (M.O.); (M.G.); (M.T.P.); (F.S.); (A.S.R.)
- IPATIMUP- Institute of Pathology and Immunology, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Rita Carvalho
- Epithelial Interactions in Cancer (EPIC) group, i3S, Institute of Investigation and Innovation in Health, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; (M.R.D.); (A.F.V.); (R.C.); (I.C.); (M.O.); (M.G.); (M.T.P.); (F.S.); (A.S.R.)
- IPATIMUP- Institute of Pathology and Immunology, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Inês Conde
- Epithelial Interactions in Cancer (EPIC) group, i3S, Institute of Investigation and Innovation in Health, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; (M.R.D.); (A.F.V.); (R.C.); (I.C.); (M.O.); (M.G.); (M.T.P.); (F.S.); (A.S.R.)
- IPATIMUP- Institute of Pathology and Immunology, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Mónica Oliveira
- Epithelial Interactions in Cancer (EPIC) group, i3S, Institute of Investigation and Innovation in Health, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; (M.R.D.); (A.F.V.); (R.C.); (I.C.); (M.O.); (M.G.); (M.T.P.); (F.S.); (A.S.R.)
- IPATIMUP- Institute of Pathology and Immunology, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Madalena Gomes
- Epithelial Interactions in Cancer (EPIC) group, i3S, Institute of Investigation and Innovation in Health, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; (M.R.D.); (A.F.V.); (R.C.); (I.C.); (M.O.); (M.G.); (M.T.P.); (F.S.); (A.S.R.)
- IPATIMUP- Institute of Pathology and Immunology, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Marta T. Pinto
- Epithelial Interactions in Cancer (EPIC) group, i3S, Institute of Investigation and Innovation in Health, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; (M.R.D.); (A.F.V.); (R.C.); (I.C.); (M.O.); (M.G.); (M.T.P.); (F.S.); (A.S.R.)
- IPATIMUP- Institute of Pathology and Immunology, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- In vivo CAM assays, i3S - Institute of Investigation and Innovation in Health, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Pedro Pereira
- Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Norte, 1649-035 Lisboa, Portugal; (P.P.); (J.P.)
| | - José Pimentel
- Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Norte, 1649-035 Lisboa, Portugal; (P.P.); (J.P.)
| | - Cristiano Souza
- Department of Breast and Gynecologic Oncology, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Barretos-SP 14784-400, Brazil; (C.S.); (A.B.); (D.P.)
| | - Márcia M. C. Marques
- Molecular Oncology Research Center, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Barretos-SP 14784-400, Brazil;
- Barretos School of Health Sciences - FACISB, Barretos-SP 14784-400, Brazil
| | | | - Alison Barroso
- Department of Breast and Gynecologic Oncology, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Barretos-SP 14784-400, Brazil; (C.S.); (A.B.); (D.P.)
| | - Daniel Preto
- Department of Breast and Gynecologic Oncology, Barretos Cancer Hospital, Barretos-SP 14784-400, Brazil; (C.S.); (A.B.); (D.P.)
| | | | - Fernando Schmitt
- Epithelial Interactions in Cancer (EPIC) group, i3S, Institute of Investigation and Innovation in Health, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; (M.R.D.); (A.F.V.); (R.C.); (I.C.); (M.O.); (M.G.); (M.T.P.); (F.S.); (A.S.R.)
- IPATIMUP- Institute of Pathology and Immunology, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine of Porto University (FMUP), 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Ana Sofia Ribeiro
- Epithelial Interactions in Cancer (EPIC) group, i3S, Institute of Investigation and Innovation in Health, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; (M.R.D.); (A.F.V.); (R.C.); (I.C.); (M.O.); (M.G.); (M.T.P.); (F.S.); (A.S.R.)
- IPATIMUP- Institute of Pathology and Immunology, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Joana Paredes
- Epithelial Interactions in Cancer (EPIC) group, i3S, Institute of Investigation and Innovation in Health, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; (M.R.D.); (A.F.V.); (R.C.); (I.C.); (M.O.); (M.G.); (M.T.P.); (F.S.); (A.S.R.)
- IPATIMUP- Institute of Pathology and Immunology, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine of Porto University (FMUP), 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +35-12-2557-0700
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McMahon JT, Faraj RR, Adamson DC. Emerging and investigational targeted chemotherapy and immunotherapy agents for metastatic brain tumors. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2020; 29:1389-1406. [PMID: 33040640 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2020.1836154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Metastases to the central nervous system are the most common cause of malignant intracranial tumors in adults. Current standard of care includes surgery and radiation, but overall survival remains poor. A range of systemic therapies are emerging as promising treatment options for these patients. AREAS COVERED This study reviews novel drug regimens that are under investigation in phase 1 and 2 clinical trials. To identify relevant therapies under clinical investigation, a search was performed on http://clinicaltrials.gov and Pubmed with the keywords brain metastasis, Phase I clinical trial, and Phase II clinical trial from 2016 to 2020. The authors detail the mechanisms of action of all trial agents, outline evidence for their utility, and summarize the current state of the field. EXPERT OPINION Current advancements in the medical management of brain metastases can be categorized into targeted therapies, methods of overcoming treatment resistance, novel combinations of therapies, and modulation of the tumor microenvironment with a specific focus on immunotherapy. Each of these realms holds great promise for the field going forward. A more streamlined structure for enrollment into clinical trials will be a crucial step in accelerating progress in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Razan R Faraj
- Department of Neurosurgery, Emory University , Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - David Cory Adamson
- Department of Neurosurgery, Emory University , Atlanta, GA, USA.,Department of Neurosurgery, Atlanta VA Medical Center , Decatur, GA
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Doheny D, Sirkisoon S, Carpenter RL, Aguayo NR, Regua AT, Anguelov M, Manore SG, Arrigo A, Jalboush SA, Wong GL, Yu Y, Wagner CJ, Chan M, Ruiz J, Thomas A, Strowd R, Lin J, Lo HW. Combined inhibition of JAK2-STAT3 and SMO-GLI1/tGLI1 pathways suppresses breast cancer stem cells, tumor growth, and metastasis. Oncogene 2020; 39:6589-6605. [PMID: 32929154 PMCID: PMC7572897 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-020-01454-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Revised: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) and HER2-positive breast cancer are particularly aggressive and associated with unfavorable prognosis. TNBC lacks effective treatments. HER2-positive tumors have treatment options but often acquire resistance to HER2-targeted therapy after initial response. To address these challenges, we determined whether novel combinations of JAK2-STAT3 and SMO-GLI1/tGLI1 inhibitors synergistically target TNBC and HER2 breast cancer since these two pathways are concurrently activated in both tumor types and enriched in metastatic tumors. Herein, we show that novel combinations of JAK2 inhibitors (ruxolitinib and pacritinib) with SMO inhibitors (vismodegib and sonidegib) synergistically inhibited in vitro growth of TNBC and HER2-positive trastuzumab-resistant BT474-TtzmR cells. Synergy was also observed against breast cancer stem cells. To determine if the combination is efficacious in inhibiting metastasis, we treated mice with intracardially inoculated TNBC cells and found the combination to inhibit lung and liver metastases, and prolong host survival without toxicity. The combination inhibited orthotopic growth, VEGF-A expression, and tumor vasculature of both TNBC and HER2-positive trastuzumab-refractory breast cancer. Lung metastasis of orthotopic BT474-TtzmR xenografts was suppressed by the combination. Together, our results indicated that dual targeting of JAK2 and SMO resulted in synergistic suppression of breast cancer growth and metastasis, thereby supporting future clinical testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Doheny
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Sherona Sirkisoon
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Richard L Carpenter
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine-Bloomington, JH 308 1001 E. 3rd St., Bloomington, IN, 47405, USA
| | - Noah Reeve Aguayo
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Angelina T Regua
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Marlyn Anguelov
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Sara G Manore
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Austin Arrigo
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Sara Abu Jalboush
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Grace L Wong
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Yang Yu
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Calvin J Wagner
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Michael Chan
- Wake Forest Comprehensive Cancer Center, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Jimmy Ruiz
- Wake Forest Comprehensive Cancer Center, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Alexandra Thomas
- Wake Forest Comprehensive Cancer Center, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Roy Strowd
- Wake Forest Comprehensive Cancer Center, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
- Department of Neurology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Jiayuh Lin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Hui-Wen Lo
- Department of Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA.
- Wake Forest Comprehensive Cancer Center, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA.
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