1
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Pu W, Ma C, Wang B, Zhu W, Chen H. The "Heater" of "Cold" Tumors-Blocking IL-6. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2024; 8:e2300587. [PMID: 38773937 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202300587] [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: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/24/2024]
Abstract
The resolution of inflammation is not simply the end of the inflammatory response but rather a complex process that involves various cells, inflammatory factors, and specialized proresolving mediators following the occurrence of inflammation. Once inflammation cannot be cleared by the body, malignant tumors may be induced. Among them, IL-6, as an immunosuppressive factor, activates a variety of signal transduction pathways and induces tumorigenesis. Monitoring IL-6 can be used for the diagnosis, efficacy evaluation and prognosis of tumor patients. In terms of treatment, improving the efficacy of targeted and immunotherapy remains a major challenge. Blocking IL-6 and its mediated signaling pathways can regulate the tumor immune microenvironment and enhance immunotherapy responses by activating immune cells. Even transform "cold" tumors that are difficult to respond to immunotherapy into immunogenic "hot" tumors, acting as a "heater" for "cold" tumors, restarting the tumor immune cycle, and reducing immunotherapy-related toxic reactions and drug resistance. In clinical practice, the combined application of IL-6 inhibition with targeted therapy and immunotherapy may produce synergistic results. Nevertheless, additional clinical trials are imperative to further validate the safety and efficacy of this therapeutic approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weigao Pu
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730030, China
- Department of Tumour Surgery, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, 730030, China
| | - Chenhui Ma
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730030, China
- Department of Tumour Surgery, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, 730030, China
| | - Bofang Wang
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730030, China
- Department of Tumour Surgery, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, 730030, China
| | - Weidong Zhu
- General Surgery Department of Lintao County People's Hospital in Gansu Province, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730030, China
| | - Hao Chen
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730030, China
- Department of Tumour Surgery, Lanzhou University Second Hospital, Lanzhou, 730030, China
- Gansu Provincial Key Laboratory of Environmental Oncology, Lanzhou, Gansu, 730030, China
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2
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Galasso L, Cerrito L, Maccauro V, Termite F, Ainora ME, Gasbarrini A, Zocco MA. Hepatocellular Carcinoma and the Multifaceted Relationship with Its Microenvironment: Attacking the Hepatocellular Carcinoma Defensive Fortress. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1837. [PMID: 38791916 PMCID: PMC11119751 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16101837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma is a malignant tumor that originates from hepatocytes in an inflammatory substrate due to different degrees of liver fibrosis up to cirrhosis. In recent years, there has been growing interest in the role played by the complex interrelationship between hepatocellular carcinoma and its microenvironment, capable of influencing tumourigenesis, neoplastic growth, and its progression or even inhibition. The microenvironment is made up of an intricate network of mesenchymal cells, immune system cells, extracellular matrix, and growth factors, as well as proinflammatory cytokines and translocated bacterial products coming from the intestinal microenvironment via the enterohepatic circulation. The aim of this paper is to review the role of the HCC microenvironment and describe the possible implications in the choice of the most appropriate therapeutic scheme in the prediction of tumor response or resistance to currently applied treatments and in the possible development of future therapeutic perspectives, in order to circumvent resistance and break down the tumor's defensive fort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Galasso
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy (L.C.); (V.M.); (A.G.)
| | - Lucia Cerrito
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy (L.C.); (V.M.); (A.G.)
- CEMAD Digestive Disease Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Valeria Maccauro
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy (L.C.); (V.M.); (A.G.)
| | - Fabrizio Termite
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy (L.C.); (V.M.); (A.G.)
| | - Maria Elena Ainora
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy (L.C.); (V.M.); (A.G.)
- CEMAD Digestive Disease Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Gasbarrini
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy (L.C.); (V.M.); (A.G.)
- CEMAD Digestive Disease Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Assunta Zocco
- Department of Internal Medicine and Gastroenterology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy (L.C.); (V.M.); (A.G.)
- CEMAD Digestive Disease Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Catholic University of Rome, 00168 Rome, Italy
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3
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Heumann P, Albert A, Gülow K, Tümen D, Müller M, Kandulski A. Insights in Molecular Therapies for Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1831. [PMID: 38791911 PMCID: PMC11120383 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16101831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
We conducted a comprehensive review of the current literature of published data and clinical trials (MEDLINE), as well as published congress contributions and active recruiting clinical trials on targeted therapies in hepatocellular carcinoma. Combinations of different agents and medical therapy along with radiological interventions were analyzed for the setting of advanced HCC. Those settings were also analyzed in combination with adjuvant situations after resection or radiological treatments. We summarized the current knowledge for each therapeutic setting and combination that currently is or has been under clinical evaluation. We further discuss the results in the background of current treatment guidelines. In addition, we review the pathophysiological mechanisms and pathways for each of these investigated targets and drugs to further elucidate the molecular background and underlying mechanisms of action. Established and recommended targeted treatment options that already exist for patients are considered for systemic treatment: atezolizumab/bevacizumab, durvalumab/tremelimumab, sorafenib, lenvatinib, cabozantinib, regorafenib, and ramucirumab. Combination treatment for systemic treatment and local ablative treatment or transarterial chemoembolization and adjuvant and neoadjuvant treatment strategies are under clinical investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philipp Heumann
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Franz-Josef-Strauß-Allee 11, 93053 Regensburg, Germany (K.G.); (D.T.)
| | | | | | | | | | - Arne Kandulski
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, and Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Regensburg, Franz-Josef-Strauß-Allee 11, 93053 Regensburg, Germany (K.G.); (D.T.)
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4
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Islam MR, Rauf A, Alash S, Fakir MNH, Thufa GK, Sowa MS, Mukherjee D, Kumar H, Hussain MS, Aljohani ASM, Imran M, Al Abdulmonem W, Thiruvengadam R, Thiruvengadam M. A comprehensive review of phytoconstituents in liver cancer prevention and treatment: targeting insights into molecular signaling pathways. Med Oncol 2024; 41:134. [PMID: 38703282 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-024-02333-5] [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: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
Primary liver cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the liver. Hepatocellular carcinoma is a primary liver cancer that usually affects adults. Liver cancer is a fatal global condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Despite advances in technology, the mortality rate remains alarming. There is growing interest in researching alternative medicines to prevent or reduce the effects of liver cancer. Recent studies have shown growing interest in herbal products, nutraceuticals, and Chinese medicines as potential treatments for liver cancer. These substances contain unique bioactive compounds with anticancer properties. The causes of liver cancer and potential treatments are discussed in this review. This study reviews natural compounds, such as curcumin, resveratrol, green tea catechins, grape seed extracts, vitamin D, and selenium. Preclinical and clinical studies have shown that these medications reduce the risk of liver cancer through their antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-angiogenic, and antimetastatic properties. This article discusses the therapeutic properties of natural products, nutraceuticals, and Chinese compounds for the prevention and treatment of liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Rezaul Islam
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, Daffodil Smart City, Birulia, Savar, Dhaka, 1216, Bangladesh
| | - Abdur Rauf
- Department of Chemistry, University of Swabi, Anbar, 23561, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan.
| | - Shopnil Alash
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, Daffodil Smart City, Birulia, Savar, Dhaka, 1216, Bangladesh
| | - Md Naeem Hossain Fakir
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, Daffodil Smart City, Birulia, Savar, Dhaka, 1216, Bangladesh
| | - Gazi Kaifeara Thufa
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, Daffodil Smart City, Birulia, Savar, Dhaka, 1216, Bangladesh
| | - Mahbuba Sharmin Sowa
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, Daffodil Smart City, Birulia, Savar, Dhaka, 1216, Bangladesh
| | - Dattatreya Mukherjee
- Raiganj Government Medical College and Hospital, Pranabananda Sarani, Raiganj, 733134, West Bengal, India
| | - Harendra Kumar
- Dow University of Health Sciences, Mission Rd, New Labour Colony Nanakwara, Karachi, 74200, Sindh, Pakistan
| | - Md Sadique Hussain
- School of Pharmacy, Suresh Gyan Vihar University, Mahal Road, Jagatpura, Jaipur, 302017, Rajasthan, India
| | - Abdullah S M Aljohani
- Department of Medical Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad Imran
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, King Khalid University, P.O. Box 9004, 61413, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Waleed Al Abdulmonem
- Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rekha Thiruvengadam
- Center for Global Health Research, Saveetha Medical College, Saveetha Institute of Medical & Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Saveetha University, Chennai, 600077, Tamil Nadu, India.
| | - Muthu Thiruvengadam
- Department of Crop Science, College of Sanghuh Life Science, Konkuk University, Seoul, 05029, South Korea
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5
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Sheng X, Qin JM. Mechanism of postoperative recurrence and metastasis of intrahepatic cholangiocellular carcinoma and clinical prevention and treatment strategy. Shijie Huaren Xiaohua Zazhi 2023; 31:753-765. [DOI: 10.11569/wcjd.v31.i18.753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Intrahepatic cholangiocellular carcinoma is a primary adenocarcinoma originating from intrahepatic bile duct epithelial cells. The tumor has no capsule. At the early stage of the tumor, there are infiltration and metastasis along the lymphatic vessels, blood vessels, perineural space, and loose fibrous connective tissue, which are characterized by lymph node metastasis. Due to the absence of characteristic clinical manifestations and the lack of specific molecular markers for early diagnosis, the surgical resection rate is low and the postoperative tumor recurrence and metastasis rate is high. Low efficacy of chemoradiotherapy, molecular targeted drugs, and immunotherapy results in the poor prognosis. Further research of molecular pathology, gene function, and imaging technology can help elucidate the occurrence, recurrence, and metastasis mechanism of intrahepatic cholangiocellular carcinoma to improve its early diagnosis rate and precise clinical staging. Individualized precision treatment and prevention for the risk factors to reduce the recurrence and metastasis rate postoperatively are key to improving the patient prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Sheng
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Minhang Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 201100, China
| | - Jian-Min Qin
- Department of General Surgery, The Third Hospital Affiliated to Naval Military Medical University, Shanghai 201805, China
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6
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Lazzaro A, Hartshorn KL. A Comprehensive Narrative Review on the History, Current Landscape, and Future Directions of Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) Systemic Therapy. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15092506. [PMID: 37173972 PMCID: PMC10177076 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15092506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
We provide a comprehensive review of current approved systemic treatment strategies for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), starting with the phase III clinical trial of sorafenib which was the first to definitively show a survival benefit. After this trial, there was an initial period of little progress. However, in recent years, an explosion of new agents and combinations of agents has resulted in a markedly improved outlook for patients. We then provide the authors' current approach to therapy, i.e., "How We Treat HCC". Promising future directions and important gaps in therapy that persist are finally reviewed. HCC is a highly prevalent cancer worldwide and the incidence is growing due not only to alcoholism, hepatitis B and C, but also to steatohepatitis. HCC, like renal cell carcinoma and melanoma, is a cancer largely resistant to chemotherapy but the advent of anti-angiogenic, targeted and immune therapies have improved survival for all of these cancers. We hope this review will heighten interest in the field of HCC therapies, provide a clear outline of the current data and strategy for treatment, and sensitize readers to new developments that are likely to emerge in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Lazzaro
- Department of Medicine, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Kevan L Hartshorn
- Section of Hematology Oncology, Boston University Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA 02118, USA
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7
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Mahmood S, Li D, Lee A, Rowe J, Beg M, Kasturi V, Iyer R, Abrams T, Dayyani F. A multicenter, phase Ib/II, open-label study of tivozanib with durvalumab in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (DEDUCTIVE). Future Oncol 2022; 18:4465-4471. [PMID: 36912078 DOI: 10.2217/fon-2022-0844] [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] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Durvalumab, a PD-L1 inhibitor, is part of an immunotherapeutic drug class shown to have prolonged survival benefit in patients with advanced stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Tivozanib is a potent and selective VEGFR 1, 2 and 3 tyrosine kinase inhibitor. While these medications have both demonstrated single-agent activity in HCC and have been combined safely with other therapies, there is no data on their concurrent therapeutic effects. In the phase Ib DEDUCTIVE trial, the combination of tivozanib plus durvalumab is evaluated for safety and tolerability. Here, the design of and rationale for this trial in both treatment naive patients and those who progress on atezolizumab and bevacizumab for advanced or metastatic HCC are described. Clinical Trial Registration: NCT03970616.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Daneng Li
- City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
| | - Arielle Lee
- University of Texas Health East Texas HOPE Cancer Center, Tyler, TX 75708, USA
| | - Julie Rowe
- University of Texas School of Health Sciences at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Muhammed Beg
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | | | - Renuka Iyer
- Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
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8
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Advances in novel systemic therapies for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma. Future Med Chem 2022; 14:1455-1470. [PMID: 35997677 DOI: 10.4155/fmc-2022-0045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) represents the most frequent type of primary liver tumor. Most HCC patients present with advanced disease at diagnosis and the recurrence rate after surgery remains high. Treatment options for advanced HCC are limited, with sorafenib representing the only systemic agent approved for treatment of advanced HCC in more than a decade. However, in recent years new molecular targeted therapies and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionized the treatment of advanced HCC. In particular, combinations of ICIs with antiangiogenic drugs, or with other ICIs, represent one of the most promising strategies. Herein we provide a comprehensive overview of the main therapeutic advances in the systemic treatment of HCC, focusing on the most relevant ongoing clinical trials.
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Zhang S, Jiang M, Cao H, Xiong J, Xu J. CTB-193M12.5 Promotes Hepatocellular Carcinoma Progression via Enhancing NSD1-Mediated WNT10B/Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Activation. J Hepatocell Carcinoma 2022; 9:553-569. [PMID: 35698644 PMCID: PMC9188405 DOI: 10.2147/jhc.s365302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Methods Results Conclusion
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuhua Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery of General Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, People’s Republic of China
| | - Mi Jiang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery of General Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, People’s Republic of China
| | - Huan Cao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery of General Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jun Xiong
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery of General Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jianqun Xu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Wuhan Third Hospital, Tongren Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, People’s Republic of China
- Correspondence: Jianqun Xu, Department of Respiratory Medicine, Wuhan Third Hospital, Tongren Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430060, People’s Republic of China, Email
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Brown ZJ, Hewitt DB, Pawlik TM. Experimental drug treatments for hepatocellular carcinoma: Clinical trial failures 2015 to 2021. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2022; 31:693-706. [PMID: 35580650 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2022.2079491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major health problem worldwide with limited systemic therapy options. Since the approval of sorafenib in 2008, no systemic therapy has provided a sustained/robust/survival benefit for patients with advanced HCC until recently. Many initially promising therapies have been trialed, but survival outcomes remained stagnant. As such, knowledge concerning previous treatment failures may help guide further areas of study, as well inform future therapeutic approaches. AREA COVERED This article reviews recent advances in the treatment of HCC. Despite some recent success, many systemic and locoregional therapies have failed to produce significant improvements in outcome. These treatment failures are examined and insight into pathways for future success are discussed. EXPERT OPINION Combination atezolizumab and bevacizumab has changed the landscape of systemic treatment for patients with HCC when it became the first therapy after demonstrating improve outcomes over sorafenib. Clinical trials in patients with advanced HCC have inherent difficulty with challenges to determine if a patient's declining liver function is secondary to disease progression, worsening cirrhosis, or drug toxicity, which may skew results. As we gain more knowledge of underlying genetic alterations behind the pathophysiology of the development of HCC, molecular markers may be identified to assist in predicting which patients would respond to a specific therapy.
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Long non-coding RNA PAARH promotes hepatocellular carcinoma progression and angiogenesis via upregulating HOTTIP and activating HIF-1α/VEGF signaling. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:102. [PMID: 35110549 PMCID: PMC8810756 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-04505-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading lethal malignancies and a hypervascular tumor. Although some long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been revealed to be involved in HCC. The contributions of lncRNAs to HCC progression and angiogenesis are still largely unknown. In this study, we identified a HCC-related lncRNA, CMB9-22P13.1, which was highly expressed and correlated with advanced stage, vascular invasion, and poor survival in HCC. We named this lncRNA Progression and Angiogenesis Associated RNA in HCC (PAARH). Gain- and loss-of function assays revealed that PAARH facilitated HCC cellular growth, migration, and invasion, repressed HCC cellular apoptosis, and promoted HCC tumor growth and angiogenesis in vivo. PAARH functioned as a competing endogenous RNA to upregulate HOTTIP via sponging miR-6760-5p, miR-6512-3p, miR-1298-5p, miR-6720-5p, miR-4516, and miR-6782-5p. The expression of PAARH was significantly positively associated with HOTTIP in HCC tissues. Functional rescue assays verified that HOTTIP was a critical mediator of the roles of PAARH in modulating HCC cellular growth, apoptosis, migration, and invasion. Furthermore, PAARH was found to physically bind hypoxia inducible factor-1 subunit alpha (HIF-1α), facilitate the recruitment of HIF-1α to VEGF promoter, and activate VEGF expression under hypoxia, which was responsible for the roles of PAARH in promoting angiogenesis. The expression of PAARH was positively associated with VEGF expression and microvessel density in HCC tissues. In conclusion, these findings demonstrated that PAARH promoted HCC progression and angiogenesis via upregulating HOTTIP and activating HIF-1α/VEGF signaling. PAARH represents a potential prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target for HCC.
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Zhang S, Xu J, Cao H, Jiang M, Xiong J. KB-68A7.1 Inhibits Hepatocellular Carcinoma Development Through Binding to NSD1 and Suppressing Wnt/β-Catenin Signalling. Front Oncol 2022; 11:808291. [PMID: 35127520 PMCID: PMC8810504 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.808291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most lethal malignancies with extremely poor prognosis. Therefore, revealing the critical molecules involved in HCC progression and prognosis is urgently needed. In this study, through combining public dataset and our cohort, we found a novel prognosis-related long non-coding RNA KB-68A7.1 in HCC. KB-68A7.1 was lowly expressed in HCC, whose low expression was associated with large tumour size, aggressive clinical characteristic, and poor survival. Gain- and loss-of-function assays demonstrated that KB-68A7.1 restricted HCC cellular proliferation, induced HCC cellular apoptosis, and suppressed HCC cellular migration and invasion in vitro. Xenograft assays demonstrated that KB-68A7.1 suppressed HCC tumour growth and metastasis in vivo. These functional assays suggested KB-68A7.1 as a tumour suppressor in HCC. Histone methyltransferase nuclear receptor binding SET domain-containing protein 1 (NSD1) was found to bind to KB-68A7.1. KB-68A7.1 was mainly distributed in the cytoplasm. The binding of KB-68A7.1 to NSD1 sequestrated NSD1 in the cytoplasm, leading to the reduction in nuclear NSD1 level. Through decreasing nuclear NSD1 level, KB-68A7.1 reduced di-methylation of histone H3 at lysine 36 (H3K36me2) and increased tri-methylation of histone H3 at lysine 27 (H3K27me3) at the promoter of WNT10B, a target of NSD1. Thus, KB-68A7.1 repressed WNT10B transcription. The expression of WNT10B was negatively correlated with that of KB-68A7.1 in HCC tissues. Through repressing WNT10B, KB-68A7.1 further repressed Wnt/β-catenin signalling. Functional rescue assays showed that overexpression of WNT10B reversed the tumour-suppressive roles of KB-68A7.1, whereas the oncogenic roles of KB-68A7.1 depletion were abolished by Wnt/β-catenin signalling inhibitor. Overall, this study identified KB-68A7.1 as a lowly expressed and prognosis-related lncRNA in HCC, which suppressed HCC progression through binding to NSD1 and repressing Wnt/β-catenin signalling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuhua Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery of General Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jianqun Xu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Wuhan Third Hospital, Tongren Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- *Correspondence: Jianqun Xu,
| | - Huan Cao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery of General Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Mi Jiang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery of General Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jun Xiong
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery of General Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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13
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Zhang H, Zhang W, Jiang L, Chen Y. Recent advances in systemic therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma. Biomark Res 2022; 10:3. [PMID: 35000616 PMCID: PMC8744248 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-021-00350-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common and lethal malignant tumors in the world. Therapeutic options for advanced HCC are limited. Systemic treatment, especially with conventional cytotoxic drugs, is usually ineffective. For more than a decade, sorafenib has been the only systemic drug that has been proven to be clinically effective for treating advanced HCC. However, over the past three years, the rapid progress of molecular targeted therapies has dramatically changed the treatment landscape for advanced HCC. Immune checkpoint therapies are now being incorporated into HCC therapies, and their combination with molecular targeted therapy is emerging as a tool to enhance the immune response. In this review, we summarize the development and progress of molecular targeted agents and immunotherapies in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huajun Zhang
- Department of Oncology, NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, Laboratory of Structural Biology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Wuyang Zhang
- Clinical skills training center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Longying Jiang
- Department of Oncology, NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, Laboratory of Structural Biology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
| | - Yongheng Chen
- Department of Oncology, NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, Laboratory of Structural Biology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
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14
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Wang Y, Wu H, Deng R. Angiogenesis as a potential treatment strategy for rheumatoid arthritis. Eur J Pharmacol 2021; 910:174500. [PMID: 34509462 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2021.174500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2021] [Revised: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Angiogenesis is an early and key event in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and is crucial for the proliferation of synovial tissue and the formation of pannus. This process is regulated by both angiogenesis-stimulating factors and angiogenesis inhibitors, the basis for the "on-off hypothesis of angiogenesis." In RA, inflammation, immune imbalance, and hypoxia can further turn on the switch for blood vessel formation and induce angiogenesis. The new vasculature can recruit white blood cells, induce immune imbalance, and aggravate inflammation. At the same time, it also can provide oxygen and nutrients for the proliferating synovial tissue, which can accelerate the process of RA. The current therapies for RA mainly target the inflammatory response of autoimmune activation. Although these therapies have been greatly improved, there are still many patients whose RA is difficult to treat or who do not fully respond to treatment. Therefore, new innovative therapies are still urgently needed. This review covers the mechanism of synovial angiogenesis in RA, including the detailed process of angiogenesis and the relationship between inflammation, immune imbalance, hypoxia, and synovial angiogenesis, respectively. At the same time, in the context of the development of angiogenesis inhibition therapy for cancer, we also discuss similar treatment strategies for RA, especially the combination of targeted angiogenesis inhibition therapy and immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Wang
- College of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Qian Jiang Road 1, Hefei, 230012, China; Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, Ministry of Education, Hefei, 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, 230012, China
| | - Hong Wu
- College of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Qian Jiang Road 1, Hefei, 230012, China; Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, Ministry of Education, Hefei, 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, 230012, China.
| | - Ran Deng
- College of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Qian Jiang Road 1, Hefei, 230012, China; Key Laboratory of Xin'an Medicine, Ministry of Education, Hefei, 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Research & Development of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, 230012, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula, Hefei, 230012, China
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15
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Pu J, Zhang Y, Wang A, Qin Z, Zhuo C, Li W, Xu Z, Tang Q, Wang J, Wei H. ADORA2A-AS1 Restricts Hepatocellular Carcinoma Progression via Binding HuR and Repressing FSCN1/AKT Axis. Front Oncol 2021; 11:754835. [PMID: 34733789 PMCID: PMC8558402 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.754835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most aggressive malignancies. Increasing evidence revealed that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) were frequently involved in various malignancies. Here, we explored the clinical significances, roles, and mechanisms of lncRNA ADORA2A antisense RNA 1 (ADORA2A-AS1) in HCC. Methods The clinical significances of ADORA2A-AS1 in HCC were analyzed using RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) project. The expressions of ADORA2A-AS1, Fascin Actin-Bundling Protein 1 (FSCN1), Matrix Metallopeptidase 2 (MMP2), and Baculoviral IAP Repeat Containing 7 (BIRC7) in HCC tissues and cells were measured by qRT-PCR. Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), 5-ethynyl-2’-deoxyuridine (EdU), caspase-3 activity assay, transwell migration and invasion assays, and xenograft growth and metastasis experiments were performed to evaluate the roles of ADORA2A-AS1 in HCC. RNA pull-down, RNA immunoprecipitation, qRT-PCR, Western blot, and RNA stability assay were performed to elucidate the mechanisms of ADORA2A-AS1 in HCC. Results ADORA2A-AS1 was identified as an HCC-related lncRNA, whose low expression was correlated with advanced stage and poor outcome in HCC. Gain- and loss-of functional experiments demonstrated that ADORA2A-AS1 inhibited HCC cell proliferation, induced cell apoptosis, repressed cell migration and invasion, and repressed xenograft growth and metastasis in vivo. Mechanistically, ADORA2A-AS1 competitively bound HuR (Hu Antigen R), repressed the binding of HuR to FSCN1 transcript, decreased FSCN1 transcript stability, and downregulated FSCN1 expression. The expression of FSCN1 was negatively correlated with ADORA2A-AS1 in HCC tissues. Through downregulating FSCN1, ADORA2A-AS1 repressed AKT pathway activation. Functional rescue assays showed that blocking of FSCN1/AKT axis abrogated the roles of ADORA2A-AS1 in HCC. Conclusion Low-expression ADORA2A-AS1 is correlated with poor survival of HCC patients. ADORA2A-AS1 exerts tumor-suppressive roles in HCC via binding HuR and repressing FSCN1/AKT axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Pu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Ya Zhang
- Graduate College of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Anmin Wang
- Graduate College of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Zebang Qin
- Graduate College of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Chenyi Zhuo
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Wenchuan Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Zuoming Xu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Qianli Tang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Jianchu Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Huamei Wei
- Department of Pathology, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, China
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16
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Man S, Wu Z, Sun R, Guan Q, Li Z, Zuo D, Zhang W, Wu Y. W436, a novel SMART derivative, exhibits anti-hepatocarcinoma activity by inducing apoptosis and G2/M cell cycle arrest in vitro and in vivo and induces protective autophagy. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2021; 35:e22831. [PMID: 34155709 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.22831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is considered one of the most common primary liver cancers and the second leading cause of cancer-associated mortality around the world annually. Therefore, it is urgent to develop novel drugs for HCC therapy. We synthesized a novel 4-substituted-methoxybenzoyl-aryl-thiazole (SMART) analog, (5-(4-aminopiperidin-1-yl)-2-phenyl-2H-1,2,3-triazol-4-yl) (3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl) methanone (W436), with higher solubility, stability, and antitumor activity than SMART against HCC cells in vivo. The purpose of this study was to investigate the mechanisms by which W436 inhibited cell growth in HCC cells. We observed that W436 inhibited the proliferation of HepG2 and Hep3B cells in a dose-dependent manner. Importantly, the anticancer activity of W436 against HCC cells was even higher than that of SMART in vivo. In addition, the antiproliferative effects of W436 on HCC cells were associated with G2/M cell cycle arrest and apoptosis via the activation of reactive oxygen species-mediated mitochondrial apoptotic pathway. W436 also induced protective autophagy by inhibiting the protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin pathway. At the same time, W436 treatment inhibited the cell adhesion and invasion as well as the process of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition Taken together, our results showed that W436 had the promising potential for the therapeutic treatment of HCC with improved solubility, stability, and bioavailability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Man
- Department of Pharmacology, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Zhuzhu Wu
- Department of Pharmacology, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Rui Sun
- Department of Pharmacology, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Qi Guan
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design and Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Zengqiang Li
- Department of Pharmacology, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Daiying Zuo
- Department of Pharmacology, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Weige Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design and Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Yingliang Wu
- Department of Pharmacology, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
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17
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BEZ235 Increases the Sensitivity of Hepatocellular Carcinoma to Sorafenib by Inhibiting PI3K/AKT/mTOR and Inducing Autophagy. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 2021:5556306. [PMID: 33987439 PMCID: PMC8079203 DOI: 10.1155/2021/5556306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Revised: 03/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Acquired resistance of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) to sorafenib (SFB) is the main reason for the failure of SFB treatment of the cancer. Abnormal activation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway is important in the acquired resistance of SFB. Therefore, we investigated whether BEZ235 (BEZ) could reverse acquired sorafenib resistance by targeting the PI3K/mTOR pathway. A sorafenib-resistant HCC cell line Huh7R was established. MTT assay, clone formation assay, flow cytometry, and immunofluorescence were used to analyze the effects of BEZ235 alone or combined with sorafenib on cell proliferation, cell cycle, apoptosis, and autophagy of Huh7 and Huh7R cells. The antitumor effect was evaluated in animal models of Huh7R xenografts in vivo. Western blot was used to detect protein levels of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway and related effector molecules. In vitro results showed that the Huh7R had a stronger proliferation ability and antiapoptosis effect than did Huh7, and sorafenib had no inhibitory effect on Huh7R. SFB + BEZ inhibited the activation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway caused by sorafenib. Moreover, SFB + BEZ inhibited the proliferation and cloning ability, blocked the cell cycle in the G0/G1 phase, and promoted apoptosis in the two cell lines. The autophagy level in Huh7R cells was higher than in Huh7 cells, and BEZ or SFB + BEZ further promoted autophagy in the two cell lines. In vivo, SFB + BEZ inhibited tumor growth by inducing apoptosis and autophagy. We concluded that BEZ235 enhanced the sensitivity of sorafenib through suppressing the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway and inducing autophagy. These observations may provide the experimental basis for sorafenib combined with BEZ235 in trial treatment of HCC.
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18
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Fountzilas C, Evans R, Alaklabi S, Iyer R. Immunotherapy in hepatocellular cancer. Adv Cancer Res 2021; 149:295-320. [PMID: 33579426 DOI: 10.1016/bs.acr.2020.12.002] [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: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma is a major global healthcare problem. It is closely related to chronic liver inflammation triggered by viral and non-viral insults, that can lead to exhaustion of effector T-cells. Furthermore, immune cells within the normal liver itself tend to be more immune tolerant in order to support the essential function of liver as the first processing station of molecules absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. Dysregulation of the immune system is a hallmark of hepatocellular carcinoma. Immune checkpoint inhibitors targeting the programmed death-1 axis have shown promise as monotherapy in the management of advanced disease, but still most patients do not benefit from treatment. Most recently, combinatorial strategies with other immune checkpoint inhibitors or agents targeting the second hallmark of hepatocellular carcinoma, i.e., the activation of the vascular epithelial growth factor axis have been studied. In this paper, we review the current immunotherapy approaches for hepatocellular carcinoma and discuss novel immunotherapy approaches and optimal patient selection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rachel Evans
- Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, United States
| | - Sabah Alaklabi
- Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, United States
| | - Renuka Iyer
- Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, United States.
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19
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Oh H, Lee JH. Tivozanib in advanced inoperable hepatocellular carcinoma: considerations for patients with liver cirrhosis. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2020; 8:1530. [PMID: 33313275 PMCID: PMC7729327 DOI: 10.21037/atm-20-3526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hyunwoo Oh
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong-Hoon Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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20
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Kalathil SG, Wang K, Hutson A, Iyer R, Thanavala Y. Tivozanib mediated inhibition of c-Kit/SCF signaling on Tregs and MDSCs and reversal of tumor induced immune suppression correlates with survival of HCC patients. Oncoimmunology 2020; 9:1824863. [PMID: 33101775 PMCID: PMC7553535 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2020.1824863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The immune modulatory effect of tivozanib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, and the underlying immune mechanisms impacting survival of HCC patients have not been investigated. Pre-clinical studies have shown that tivozanib reduces Tregs and MDSCs accumulation through inhibition of c-Kit/SCF axis. We rationalized that c-Kit/SCF axis antagonism by tivozanib may reverse tumor-induced immune suppression in HCC patients. The frequency of circulating Tregs, MDSCs, CTLA-4+Tregs, PD-1+T cells, c-Kit+pERK-2+Tregs, and c-Kit+pERK-2+MDSCs were quantified in HCC patients at baseline and two time points during tivozanib treatment. We report for the first time that reduction in Tregs after tivozanib treatment and increased levels of baseline CD4+PD-1+T cells correlated with significant improvement in overall survival (OS) of the patients and these signatures may be potential biomarkers of prognostic significance. This immune modulation resulted from tivozanib-mediated blockade of c-Kit/SCF signaling, impacting ERK2 phosphorylation on Tregs and MDSCs. Low pre-treatment CD4+T cells: Treg ratio and reduction in the frequencies of Foxp3+c-Kit+pERK+Tregs after tivozanib treatment correlated significantly with progression free survival. In a comparative analysis of tivozanib vs sorafenib treatment in HCC patients, we demonstrate that decrease in the baseline numbers or frequencies of Foxp3+Tregs, MDSCs and exhausted T cells was significantly greater following tivozanib treatment. Additionally, greater increase in CD4+T cell: Treg ratio after tivozanib treatment was associated with significant improvement in OS compared to sorafenib treatment, highlighting the greater efficacy of tivozanib. These insights may help identify patients who likely would benefit from c-Kit/SCF antagonism and inform efforts to improve the efficacy of tivozanib in combination with immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suresh Gopi Kalathil
- Department of Immunology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Elm and Carlton Streets, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Katy Wang
- Department of Biostatistics & Bioinformatics Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Elm and Carlton Streets, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Alan Hutson
- Department of Biostatistics & Bioinformatics Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Elm and Carlton Streets, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Renuka Iyer
- Medicine, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Elm and Carlton Streets, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | - Yasmin Thanavala
- Department of Immunology, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Elm and Carlton Streets, Buffalo, NY, USA
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