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Sandhu ZA, Raza MA, Alqurashi A, Sajid S, Ashraf S, Imtiaz K, Aman F, Alessa AH, Shamsi MB, Latif M. Advances in the Optimization of Fe Nanoparticles: Unlocking Antifungal Properties for Biomedical Applications. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:645. [PMID: 38794307 PMCID: PMC11124843 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16050645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years, nanotechnology has achieved a remarkable status in shaping the future of biological applications, especially in combating fungal diseases. Owing to excellence in nanotechnology, iron nanoparticles (Fe NPs) have gained enormous attention in recent years. In this review, we have provided a comprehensive overview of Fe NPs covering key synthesis approaches and underlying working principles, the factors that influence their properties, essential characterization techniques, and the optimization of their antifungal potential. In addition, the diverse kinds of Fe NP delivery platforms that command highly effective release, with fewer toxic effects on patients, are of great significance in the medical field. The issues of biocompatibility, toxicity profiles, and applications of optimized Fe NPs in the field of biomedicine have also been described because these are the most significant factors determining their inclusion in clinical use. Besides this, the difficulties and regulations that exist in the transition from laboratory to experimental clinical studies (toxicity, specific standards, and safety concerns) of Fe NPs-based antifungal agents have been also summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeshan Ali Sandhu
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Hafiz Hayat Campus, University of Gujrat, Gujrat 50700, Pakistan; (Z.A.S.); (S.A.); (K.I.)
| | - Muhammad Asam Raza
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Hafiz Hayat Campus, University of Gujrat, Gujrat 50700, Pakistan; (Z.A.S.); (S.A.); (K.I.)
| | - Abdulmajeed Alqurashi
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Taibah University, Madinah 42353, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Samavia Sajid
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Engineering and Technology, Lahore 54890, Pakistan;
| | - Sufyan Ashraf
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Hafiz Hayat Campus, University of Gujrat, Gujrat 50700, Pakistan; (Z.A.S.); (S.A.); (K.I.)
| | - Kainat Imtiaz
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Hafiz Hayat Campus, University of Gujrat, Gujrat 50700, Pakistan; (Z.A.S.); (S.A.); (K.I.)
| | - Farhana Aman
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Lahore, Sargodha Campus, Sargodha 40100, Pakistan;
| | - Abdulrahman H. Alessa
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Tabuk, Tabuk 71491, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Monis Bilal Shamsi
- Centre for Genetics and Inherited Diseases (CGID), Taibah University, Madinah 42353, Saudi Arabia;
- Department Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taibah University, Madinah 42353, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad Latif
- Centre for Genetics and Inherited Diseases (CGID), Taibah University, Madinah 42353, Saudi Arabia;
- Department Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taibah University, Madinah 42353, Saudi Arabia
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BharathwajChetty B, Sajeev A, Vishwa R, Aswani BS, Alqahtani MS, Abbas M, Kunnumakkara AB. Dynamic interplay of nuclear receptors in tumor cell plasticity and drug resistance: Shifting gears in malignant transformations and applications in cancer therapeutics. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2024; 43:321-362. [PMID: 38517618 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-024-10171-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
Recent advances have brought forth the complex interplay between tumor cell plasticity and its consequential impact on drug resistance and tumor recurrence, both of which are critical determinants of neoplastic progression and therapeutic efficacy. Various forms of tumor cell plasticity, instrumental in facilitating neoplastic cells to develop drug resistance, include epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) alternatively termed epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity, the acquisition of cancer stem cell (CSC) attributes, and transdifferentiation into diverse cell lineages. Nuclear receptors (NRs) are a superfamily of transcription factors (TFs) that play an essential role in regulating a multitude of cellular processes, including cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. NRs have been implicated to play a critical role in modulating gene expression associated with tumor cell plasticity and drug resistance. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current understanding of how NRs regulate these key aspects of cancer biology. We discuss the diverse mechanisms through which NRs influence tumor cell plasticity, including EMT, stemness, and metastasis. Further, we explore the intricate relationship between NRs and drug resistance, highlighting the impact of NR signaling on chemotherapy, radiotherapy and targeted therapies. We also discuss the emerging therapeutic strategies targeting NRs to overcome tumor cell plasticity and drug resistance. This review also provides valuable insights into the current clinical trials that involve agonists or antagonists of NRs modulating various aspects of tumor cell plasticity, thereby delineating the potential of NRs as therapeutic targets for improved cancer treatment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bandari BharathwajChetty
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (IITG), Guwahati, 781039, Assam, India
| | - Anjana Sajeev
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (IITG), Guwahati, 781039, Assam, India
| | - Ravichandran Vishwa
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (IITG), Guwahati, 781039, Assam, India
| | - Babu Santha Aswani
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (IITG), Guwahati, 781039, Assam, India
| | - Mohammed S Alqahtani
- Radiological Sciences Department, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Khalid University, Abha, 61421, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed Abbas
- Electrical Engineering Department, College of Engineering, King Khalid University, Abha, 61421, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ajaikumar B Kunnumakkara
- Cancer Biology Laboratory, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (IITG), Guwahati, 781039, Assam, India.
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Guler Kara H, Ozates NP, Asik A, Gunduz C. Cancer stemness kinase inhibitor amcasertib: a promising therapeutic agent in ovarian cancer stem and cancer cell models with different genetic profiles. Med Oncol 2023; 40:342. [PMID: 37891391 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-023-02210-7] [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: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Ovarian cancer, often referred to as the 'silent killer,' is a significant contributor to mortality rates. Emerging evidence implicates Nanog as a potential therapeutic target in ovarian cancer. Amcasertib (BBI-503) is an orally administered primary class stemness kinase inhibitor that effectively targets NANOG and various cancer stem cell pathways by specifically inhibiting serine-threonine stemness kinases. This study aimed to evaluate the antineoplastic effects of Nanog inhibition, a critical transcription factor associated with pluripotency and its role in ovarian cancer tumorigenesis, using the novel therapeutic agent Amcasertib in ovarian cancer cells characterized by distinct genetic profiles. The cytotoxicity of Amcasertib was assessed in both ovarian cancer and cancer stem cell models utilizing the Xelligence-RTCA system. The impact of the determined IC50 dose on apoptosis, invasion, migration, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), cell cycle progression, colony formation, and spheroid growth was evaluated using appropriate analytical techniques. Our findings revealed that Amcasertib exhibited significant antiproliferative effects and induced apoptosis in ovarian cancer and cancer stem cells. Moreover, Amcasertib caused G1 phase arrest and impeded colony formation in MDAH-2774 cells. Additionally, Amcasertib effectively inhibited spheroid growth in OVCAR-3 and OCSC cells. Notably, it demonstrated the ability to suppress invasion and migration in MDAH-2774 and OCSC cells. Furthermore, the suppression of Nanog-mediated stem cell-like features by Amcasertib was particularly pronounced in ER-negative ovarian cancer and cancer stem cells, highlighting its high anticancer efficacy in this subgroup. These results suggest that Amcasertib holds promise as a potential standalone or combination therapy agent for the treatment of ER-negative ovarian cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hale Guler Kara
- Department of Medical Biology, Medical Faculty, Harran University, Haliliye, 63050, Gülveren, Sanliurfa, Turkey.
| | - Neslihan Pinar Ozates
- Department of Medical Biology, Medical Faculty, Harran University, Haliliye, 63050, Gülveren, Sanliurfa, Turkey
| | - Aycan Asik
- Department of Medical Biology, Medical Faculty, Mugla Sitki Kocman University, Menteşe, 48000, Muğla, Turkey
| | - Cumhur Gunduz
- Department of Medical Biology, Medical Faculty, Ege University, Bornova, 35100, Izmir, Turkey
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Janaththani P, Tevz G, Fernando A, Malik A, Rockstroh A, Kryza T, Walpole C, Moya L, Lehman M, Nelson C, Srinivasan S, Clements J, Batra J. Unravelling the Role of Iroquois Homeobox 4 and its Interplay with Androgen Receptor in Prostate Cancer. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-3295914. [PMID: 38076926 PMCID: PMC10705702 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3295914/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
Genome-wide association studies have linked Iroquois-Homeobox 4 (IRX4) as a robust expression quantitative-trait locus associated with prostate cancer (PCa) risk. However, the intricate mechanism and regulatory factors governing IRX4 expression in PCa remain poorly understood. Here, we unveil enrichment of androgen-responsive gene signatures in metastatic prostate tumors exhibiting heightened IRX4 expression. Furthermore, we uncover a novel interaction between IRX4 and the androgen receptor (AR) co-factor, FOXA1, suggesting that IRX4 modulates PCa cell behavior through AR cistrome alteration. Remarkably, we identified a distinctive short insertion-deletion polymorphism (INDEL), upstream of the IRX4 gene that differentially regulates IRX4 expression through the disruption of AR binding. This INDEL emerges as the most significant PCa risk-associated variant within the 5p15 locus, in a genetic analysis involving 82,591 PCa cases and 61,213 controls and was associated with PCa survival in patients undergoing androgen-deprivation therapy. These studies suggest the potential of this INDEL as a prognostic biomarker for androgen therapy in PCa and IRX4 as a potential therapeutic target in combination with current clinical management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panchadsaram Janaththani
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Translational Research Institute, Woolloongabba, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne, Victoria
| | - Gregor Tevz
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Translational Research Institute, Woolloongabba, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Achala Fernando
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Translational Research Institute, Woolloongabba, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Centre for Genomics and Personalised Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Adil Malik
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Translational Research Institute, Woolloongabba, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Anja Rockstroh
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Translational Research Institute, Woolloongabba, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Thomas Kryza
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Translational Research Institute, Woolloongabba, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Mater Research UQ, Translational Research Institute, Woolloongabba, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Carina Walpole
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Translational Research Institute, Woolloongabba, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Mater Research UQ, Translational Research Institute, Woolloongabba, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Leire Moya
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Translational Research Institute, Woolloongabba, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Melanie Lehman
- Translational Research Institute, Woolloongabba, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Canada
| | - Colleen Nelson
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Translational Research Institute, Woolloongabba, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - The Australian Prostate Cancer BioResource
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Translational Research Institute, Woolloongabba, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | | | - Srilakshmi Srinivasan
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Translational Research Institute, Woolloongabba, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Centre for Genomics and Personalised Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Judith Clements
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Translational Research Institute, Woolloongabba, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jyotsna Batra
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Translational Research Institute, Woolloongabba, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Centre for Genomics and Personalised Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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5
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Zeng Z, Fu M, Hu Y, Wei Y, Wei X, Luo M. Regulation and signaling pathways in cancer stem cells: implications for targeted therapy for cancer. Mol Cancer 2023; 22:172. [PMID: 37853437 PMCID: PMC10583419 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-023-01877-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs), initially identified in leukemia in 1994, constitute a distinct subset of tumor cells characterized by surface markers such as CD133, CD44, and ALDH. Their behavior is regulated through a complex interplay of networks, including transcriptional, post-transcriptional, epigenetic, tumor microenvironment (TME), and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) factors. Numerous signaling pathways were found to be involved in the regulatory network of CSCs. The maintenance of CSC characteristics plays a pivotal role in driving CSC-associated tumor metastasis and conferring resistance to therapy. Consequently, CSCs have emerged as promising targets in cancer treatment. To date, researchers have developed several anticancer agents tailored to specifically target CSCs, with some of these treatment strategies currently undergoing preclinical or clinical trials. In this review, we outline the origin and biological characteristics of CSCs, explore the regulatory networks governing CSCs, discuss the signaling pathways implicated in these networks, and investigate the influential factors contributing to therapy resistance in CSCs. Finally, we offer insights into preclinical and clinical agents designed to eliminate CSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Zeng
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Agent Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P.R. China
| | - Minyang Fu
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Agent Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P.R. China
| | - Yuan Hu
- Department of Pediatric Nephrology Nursing, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P.R. China
| | - Yuquan Wei
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Agent Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P.R. China
| | - Xiawei Wei
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Agent Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P.R. China
| | - Min Luo
- Laboratory of Aging Research and Cancer Agent Target, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, No. 17, Block 3, Southern Renmin Road, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, P.R. China.
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6
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Iroquois Family Genes in Gastric Carcinogenesis: A Comprehensive Review. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:genes14030621. [PMID: 36980893 PMCID: PMC10048635 DOI: 10.3390/genes14030621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) is the fifth leading cause of cancer-associated death worldwide, accounting for 768,793 related deaths and 1,089,103 new cases in 2020. Despite diagnostic advances, GC is often detected in late stages. Through a systematic literature search, this study focuses on the associations between the Iroquois gene family and GC. Accumulating evidence indicates that Iroquois genes are involved in the regulation of various physiological and pathological processes, including cancer. To date, information about Iroquois genes in GC is very limited. In recent years, the expression and function of Iroquois genes examined in different models have suggested that they play important roles in cell and cancer biology, since they were identified to be related to important signaling pathways, such as wingless, hedgehog, mitogen-activated proteins, fibroblast growth factor, TGFβ, and the PI3K/Akt and NF-kB pathways. In cancer, depending on the tumor, Iroquois genes can act as oncogenes or tumor suppressor genes. However, in GC, they seem to mostly act as tumor suppressor genes and can be regulated by several mechanisms, including methylation, microRNAs and important GC-related pathogens. In this review, we provide an up-to-date review of the current knowledge regarding Iroquois family genes in GC.
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Chhetri D, Vengadassalapathy S, Venkadassalapathy S, Balachandran V, Umapathy VR, Veeraraghavan VP, Jayaraman S, Patil S, Iyaswamy A, Palaniyandi K, Gnanasampanthapandian D. Pleiotropic effects of DCLK1 in cancer and cancer stem cells. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:965730. [PMID: 36250024 PMCID: PMC9560780 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.965730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Doublecortin-like kinase 1 (DCLK1), a protein molecule, has been identified as a tumor stem cell marker in the cancer cells of gastrointestinal, pancreas, and human colon. DCLK1 expression in cancers, such as breast carcinoma, lung carcinoma, hepatic cell carcinoma, tuft cells, and human cholangiocarcinoma, has shown a way to target the DCLK1 gene and downregulate its expression. Several studies have discussed the inhibition of tumor cell proliferation along with neoplastic cell arrest when the DCLK1 gene, which is expressed in both cancer and normal cells, was targeted successfully. In addition, previous studies have shown that DCLK1 plays a vital role in various cancer metastases. The correlation of DCLK1 with numerous stem cell receptors, signaling pathways, and genes suggests its direct or an indirect role in promoting tumorigenesis. Moreover, the impact of DCLK1 was found to be related to the functioning of an oncogene. The downregulation of DCLK1 expression by using targeted strategies, such as embracing the use of siRNA, miRNA, CRISPR/Cas9 technology, nanomolecules, specific monoclonal antibodies, and silencing the pathways regulated by DCLK1, has shown promising results in both in vitro and in vivo studies on gastrointestinal (GI) cancers. In this review, we will discuss about the present understanding of DCLK1 and its role in the progression of GI cancer and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dibyashree Chhetri
- Cancer Science Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, School of Bioengineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai, India
| | - Srinivasan Vengadassalapathy
- Department of Pharmacology, Saveetha Medical College and Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, India
| | | | - Varadharaju Balachandran
- Department of Physiology, Saveetha Medical College and Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, India
| | - Vidhya Rekha Umapathy
- Department of Public Health Dentistry, Sree Balaji Dental College and Hospital, Chennai, India
| | - Vishnu Priya Veeraraghavan
- Department of Biochemistry, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, India
| | - Selvaraj Jayaraman
- Department of Biochemistry, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, India
| | - Shankargouda Patil
- College of Dental Medicine, Roseman University of Health Sciences, South Jordan, UT, United States
| | - Ashok Iyaswamy
- Centre for Parkinsons Disease Research, School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Kanagaraj Palaniyandi
- Cancer Science Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, School of Bioengineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai, India
- *Correspondence: Kanagaraj Palaniyandi, ; Dhanavathy Gnanasampanthapandian,
| | - Dhanavathy Gnanasampanthapandian
- Cancer Science Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, School of Bioengineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai, India
- *Correspondence: Kanagaraj Palaniyandi, ; Dhanavathy Gnanasampanthapandian,
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Vasefifar P, Motafakkerazad R, Maleki LA, Najafi S, Ghrobaninezhad F, Najafzadeh B, Alemohammad H, Amini M, Baghbanzadeh A, Baradaran B. Nanog, as a key cancer stem cell marker in tumor progression. Gene X 2022; 827:146448. [PMID: 35337852 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2022.146448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2021] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a small population of malignant cells that induce tumor onset and development. CSCs share similar features with normal stem cells in the case of self-renewal and differentiation. They also contribute to chemoresistance and metastasis of cancer cells, leading to therapeutic failure. To identify CSCs, multiple cell surface markers have been characterized, including Nanog, which is found at high levels in different cancers. Recent studies have revealed that Nanog upregulation has a substantial association with the advanced stages and poor prognosis of malignancies, playing a pivotal role through tumorigenesis of multiple human cancers, including leukemia, liver, colorectal, prostate, ovarian, lung, head and neck, brain, pancreatic, gastric and breast cancers. Nanog through different signaling pathways, like JAK/STAT and Wnt/β-catenin pathways, induces stemness, self-renewal, metastasis, invasiveness, and chemoresistance of cancer cells. Some of these signaling pathways are common in various types of cancers, but some have been found in one or two cancers. Therefore, this review aimed to focus on the function of Nanog in multiple cancers based on recent studies surveying the suitable approaches to target Nanog and inhibit CSCs residing in tumors to gain favorable results from cancer treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parisa Vasefifar
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran; Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | | | - Souzan Najafi
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Basira Najafzadeh
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hajar Alemohammad
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Amini
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Amir Baghbanzadeh
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Behzad Baradaran
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Pharmaceutical Analysis Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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9
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Claudin1 decrease induced by 1,25-dihydroxy-vitamin D3 potentiates gefitinib resistance therapy through inhibiting AKT activation-mediated cancer stem-like properties in NSCLC cells. Cell Death Dis 2022; 8:122. [PMID: 35301287 PMCID: PMC8931006 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-022-00918-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Claudins, the integral tight junction proteins that regulate paracellular permeability and cell polarity, are frequently dysregulated in cancer; however, their roles in regulating EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR-TKIs) resistance in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) are unknown. To this end, we performed GEO dataset analysis and identified that claudin1 was a critical regulator of EGFR-TKI resistance in NSCLC cells. We also found that claudin1, which was highly induced by continuous gefitinib treatment, was significantly upregulated in EGFR-TKI-resistant NSCLC cells. By knocking down claudin1 in cell lines and xenograft models, we established that gefitinib resistance was decreased. Moreover, claudin1 knockdown suppressed the expression levels of pluripotency markers (Oct4, Nanog, Sox2, CD133, and ALDH1A1). Claudin1 loss inhibited phosphorylated AKT (p-AKT) expression and reduced cancer cell stemness by suppressing AKT activation. Furthermore, SKL2001, a β-catenin agonist, upregulated the expression levels of claudin1, p-AKT, and pluripotency markers, and 1,25-dihydroxy-vitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3) reduced claudin1 expression, AKT activation, and cancer cell stemness by inhibiting β-catenin, and suppressed claudin1/AKT pathway mediated cancer stem-like properties and gefitinib resistance. Collectively, inhibition of claudin1-mediated cancer stem-like properties by 1,25(OH)2D3 may decrease gefitinib resistance through the AKT pathway, which may be a promising therapeutic strategy for inhibiting gefitinib resistance in EGFR-mutant lung adenocarcinoma.
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Chang Y, Zhang J, Huo X, Qu X, Xia C, Huang K, Xie F, Wang N, Wei X, Jia Q. Substrate rigidity dictates colorectal tumorigenic cell stemness and metastasis via CRAD-dependent mechanotransduction. Cell Rep 2022; 38:110390. [PMID: 35172140 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.110390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor physical microenvironment contributes greatly to the response of tumor cells. However, the mechanism of how extracellular substrate rigidity remodels colorectal cancer (CRC) cell fate and affects CRC progression remains elusive. Here, we show that F-actin regulator KIAA1211, also known as Capping protein inhibiting regulator of actin dynamics (CRAD), negatively correlates with CRC progression, stemness, and metastasis. Mechanistically, decreased CRAD in soft substrates induces Yes-associated protein (YAP) retention in the cytoplasm, restoring the repression effect on stemness markers NANOG and OCT4, thereby promoting CRC stemness and metastasis. Furthermore, CRAD deficiency promotes colorectal tumor cell softening and regulates epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) states, contributing to its metastasis potential. Clinically, CRAD expression is correlated with malignant degrees and metastasis in CRC patients. Our work uncovers a role of CRAD in anticancer and mechanical signal transduction of the extracellular matrix in CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhan Chang
- Department of Oncology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210006, China
| | - Juan Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210006, China
| | - Xinying Huo
- Department of Oncology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210006, China
| | - Xinliang Qu
- Department of Cardiology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210006, China
| | - Chunlei Xia
- Department of Cardiology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210006, China
| | - Kaizong Huang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology Lab, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210006, China
| | - Fuyang Xie
- Department of Radiotherapy, The Affiliated Lianshui People's Hospital of Kangda College of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu 223400, China
| | - Nuofan Wang
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Xiaowei Wei
- Department of Oncology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210006, China.
| | - Qiong Jia
- Department of Oncology, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210006, China.
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11
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Gkountakos A, Centonze G, Vita E, Belluomini L, Milella M, Bria E, Milione M, Scarpa A, Simbolo M. Identification of Targetable Liabilities in the Dynamic Metabolic Profile of EGFR-Mutant Lung Adenocarcinoma: Thinking beyond Genomics for Overcoming EGFR TKI Resistance. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10020277. [PMID: 35203491 PMCID: PMC8869286 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10020277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The use of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) as first-line treatment in patients with lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) harboring EGFR-activating mutations has resulted in a dramatic improvement in the management of the disease. However, the long-term clinical benefit is inevitably compromised by multiple resistance mechanisms. Accumulating evidence suggests that metabolic landscape remodeling is one of the mechanisms that EGFR-mutant LUAD cells activate, thus acquiring higher plasticity, tolerating EGFR TKI-mediated cytotoxic stress, and sustaining their oncogenic phenotype. Several metabolic pathways are upregulated in EGFR TKI-resistant models modulating the levels of numerous metabolites such as lipids, carbohydrates, and metabolic enzymes which have been suggested as potential mediators of resistance to EGFR TKIs. Moreover, metabolites have been shown to carry signals and stimulate oncogenic pathways and tumor microenvironment (TME) components such as fibroblasts, facilitating resistance to EGFR TKIs in various ways. Interestingly, metabolic signatures could function as predictive biomarkers of EGFR TKI efficacy, accurately classifying patients with EGFR-mutant LUAD. In this review, we present the identified metabolic rewiring mechanisms and how these act either independently or in concert with epigenetic or TME elements to orchestrate EGFR TKI resistance. Moreover, we discuss potential nutrient dependencies that emerge, highlighting them as candidate druggable metabolic vulnerabilities with already approved drugs which, in combination with EGFR TKIs, might counteract the solid challenge of resistance, hopefully prolonging the clinical benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasios Gkountakos
- ARC-NET Applied Research on Cancer Center, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy; (A.G.); (A.S.)
| | - Giovanni Centonze
- 1st Pathology Division, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, 20133 Milan, Italy; (G.C.); (M.M.)
| | - Emanuele Vita
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (E.V.); (E.B.)
- Department of Medical Oncology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Belluomini
- Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy; (L.B.); (M.M.)
| | - Michele Milella
- Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy; (L.B.); (M.M.)
| | - Emilio Bria
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy; (E.V.); (E.B.)
- Department of Medical Oncology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Massimo Milione
- 1st Pathology Division, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, 20133 Milan, Italy; (G.C.); (M.M.)
| | - Aldo Scarpa
- ARC-NET Applied Research on Cancer Center, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy; (A.G.); (A.S.)
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Michele Simbolo
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
- Correspondence:
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12
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LncCDH5-3:3 Regulates Apoptosis, Proliferation, and Aggressiveness in Human Lung Cancer Cells. Cells 2022; 11:cells11030378. [PMID: 35159188 PMCID: PMC8834634 DOI: 10.3390/cells11030378] [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: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Lung cancer (both small cell and non-small cell) is the leading cause of new deaths associated with cancers globally in men and women. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are associated with tumorigenesis in different types of tumors, including lung cancer. Herein, we discuss: (1) An examination of the expression profile of lncCDH5-3:3 in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), and an evaluation of its functional role in lung cancer development and progression using in vitro models; (2) A quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction assay that confirms lncCDH5-3:3 expression in tumor samples resected from 20 NSCLC patients, and that shows its statistically higher expression levels at stage III NSCLC, compared to stages I and II. Moreover, knockout (KO) and overexpression, as well as molecular and biochemical techniques, were used to investigate the biological functions of lncCDH5-3:3 in NSCLC cells, with a focus on the cells’ proliferation and migration; (3) The finding that lncCDH5-3:3 silencing promotes apoptosis and probably regulates the cell cycle and E-cadherin expression in adenocarcinoma cell lines. In comparison, lncCDH5-3:3 overexpression increases the expression levels of proliferation and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition markers, such as EpCAM, Akt, and ERK1/2; however, at the same time, it also stimulates the expression of E-cadherin, which conversely inhibits the mobility capabilities of lung cancer cells; (4) The results of this study, which provide important insights into the role of lncRNAs in lung cancer. Our study shows that lncCDH5-3:3 affects important features of lung cancer cells, such as their viability and motility. The results support the idea that lncCDH5-3:3 is probably involved in the oncogenesis of NSCLC through the regulation of apoptosis and tumor cell metastasis formation.
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13
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García-Quiroz J, Cárdenas-Ochoa N, García-Becerra R, Morales-Guadarrama G, Méndez-Pérez EA, Santos-Cuevas C, Ramírez-Nava GJ, Segovia-Mendoza M, Prado-García H, Avila E, Larrea F, Díaz L. Antitumoral effects of dovitinib in triple-negative breast cancer are synergized by calcitriol in vivo and in vitro. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2021; 214:105979. [PMID: 34438041 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2021.105979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Revised: 07/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Chemotherapy is a standard therapeutic option for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC); however, its effectiveness is often compromised by drug-related toxicity and resistance development. Herein, we aimed to evaluate whether an improved antineoplastic effect could be achieved in vitro and in vivo in TNBC by combining dovitinib, a multi-kinase inhibitor, with calcitriol, a natural anticancer hormone. In vitro, cell proliferation and cell-cycle distribution were studied by sulforhodamine B-assays and flow cytometry. In vivo, dovitinib/calcitriol effects on tumor growth, angiogenesis, and endothelium activation were evaluated in xenografted mice by caliper measures, Itgb3/VEGFR2-immunohistochemistry and 99mTc-Ethylenediamine-N,N-diacetic acid/hydrazinonicotinamyl-Glu[cyclo(Arg-Gly-Asp-D-Phe-Lys)]2 (99mTc-RGD2)-tumor uptake. The drug combination elicited a synergistically improved antiproliferative effect in TNBC-derived cells, which allowed a 7-fold and a 3.3-fold dovitinib dose-reduction in MBCDF-Tum and HCC-1806 cells, respectively. Mechanistically, the co-treatment induced a cell cycle profile suggestive of cell death and DNA damage (accumulation of cells in SubG1, S, and G2/M phases), increased the number of multinucleated cells and inhibited tumor growth to a greater extent than each compound alone. Tumor uptake of 99mTc-RGD2 was reduced by dovitinib, suggesting angiogenesis inhibition, which was corroborated by decreased endothelial cell growth, tumor-vessel density and VEGFR2 expression. In summary, calcitriol synergized dovitinib anticancer effects in vitro and in vivo, allowing for a significant dose-reduction of dovitinib while maintaining its antiproliferative potency. Our results suggest the beneficial convergence of independent antitumor mechanisms of dovitinib and calcitriol to inhibit TNBC-tumor growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janice García-Quiroz
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción Dr. Carlos Gual Castro, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Av. Vasco de Quiroga No. 15, Belisario Domínguez Sección XVI, Tlalpan, 14080, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| | - Nohemí Cárdenas-Ochoa
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción Dr. Carlos Gual Castro, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Av. Vasco de Quiroga No. 15, Belisario Domínguez Sección XVI, Tlalpan, 14080, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| | - Rocío García-Becerra
- Departamento de Biología Molecular y Biotecnología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Av. Universidad 3000, Coyoacán, 04510, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| | - Gabriela Morales-Guadarrama
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción Dr. Carlos Gual Castro, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Av. Vasco de Quiroga No. 15, Belisario Domínguez Sección XVI, Tlalpan, 14080, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| | - Edgar A Méndez-Pérez
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción Dr. Carlos Gual Castro, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Av. Vasco de Quiroga No. 15, Belisario Domínguez Sección XVI, Tlalpan, 14080, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| | - Clara Santos-Cuevas
- Departamento de Materiales Radioactivos, Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Nucleares, Ocoyoacac, 52750, Estado de México, Mexico.
| | - Gerardo J Ramírez-Nava
- Departamento de Materiales Radioactivos, Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Nucleares, Ocoyoacac, 52750, Estado de México, Mexico.
| | - Mariana Segovia-Mendoza
- Departamento de Farmacología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Av. Universidad 3000, Coyoacán, 04510, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| | - Heriberto Prado-García
- Departamento de Enfermedades Crónico-Degenerativas, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Respiratorias Ismael Cosío Villegas, Calzada de Tlalpan 4502, Belisario Domínguez Sección XVI, C.P. 14080, Tlalpan, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| | - Euclides Avila
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción Dr. Carlos Gual Castro, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Av. Vasco de Quiroga No. 15, Belisario Domínguez Sección XVI, Tlalpan, 14080, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| | - Fernando Larrea
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción Dr. Carlos Gual Castro, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Av. Vasco de Quiroga No. 15, Belisario Domínguez Sección XVI, Tlalpan, 14080, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| | - Lorenza Díaz
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción Dr. Carlos Gual Castro, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Av. Vasco de Quiroga No. 15, Belisario Domínguez Sección XVI, Tlalpan, 14080, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
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14
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Sándor GO, Soós AÁ, Lörincz P, Rojkó L, Harkó T, Bogyó L, Tölgyes T, Bursics A, Buzás EI, Moldvay J, Wiener Z. Wnt Activity and Cell Proliferation Are Coupled to Extracellular Vesicle Release in Multiple Organoid Models. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:670825. [PMID: 34249925 PMCID: PMC8264557 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.670825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EV) are considered as a potential tool for early disease diagnosis; however, factors modifying EV release remain partially unknown. By using patient-derived organoids that capture the cellular heterogeneity of epithelial tissues, here we studied the connection between the Wnt-producing microniche and EV secretion in multiple tissues. Although nearly all cells in pancreatic ductal (PD) and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) samples expressed porcupine (PORCN), an enzyme critical for Wnt secretion, only a subpopulation of lung bronchiolar (NL) and lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) organoid cells produced active Wnt. The microniche for proliferating cells was shaped not only by PORCN + cells in NL and LUAD organoids but also by fibroblast-derived EVs. This effect could be blocked by using Wnt secretion inhibitors. Whereas inhibiting Wnt secretion in PD NL or LUAD organoids critically changed both cell proliferation and EV release, these were uncoupled from each other in PDAC. Sorting for CD133 identified a cell population in the LUAD microniche that produced organoids with a high percentage of PORCN + and proliferating cells and an elevated EV secretion, which may explain that CD133 marks LUAD cells with malignant behavior. Collectively, we show here that high cell proliferation rate, induced by Wnt pathway activation, is coupled to a higher EV release, a critical finding that may be considered when developing EV-based diagnostic tools.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - András Áron Soós
- Department of Genetics, Cell and Immunobiology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Péter Lörincz
- Department of Anatomy, Cell and Developmental Biology, Eötvös Loránd University of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary.,Premium Postdoctoral Research Program, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Lívia Rojkó
- 1st Department of Pulmonology, National Korányi Institute of Pulmonology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Tünde Harkó
- Department of Pathology, National Korányi Institute of Pulmonology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Levente Bogyó
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Semmelweis University and National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary.,Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Korányi Institute of Pulmonology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Tamás Tölgyes
- Department of General Surgery and Surgical Oncology, Uzsoki Hospital, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Attila Bursics
- Department of General Surgery and Surgical Oncology, Uzsoki Hospital, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Edit I Buzás
- Department of Genetics, Cell and Immunobiology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.,ELKH-SE Immune-Proteogenomics Extracellular Vesicle Research Group, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.,HCEMM-SE Extracellular Vesicle Research Group, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Judit Moldvay
- 1st Department of Pulmonology, National Korányi Institute of Pulmonology, Budapest, Hungary.,SE-NAP Brain Metastasis Research Group, 2nd Department of Pathology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Zoltán Wiener
- Department of Genetics, Cell and Immunobiology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
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15
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Chen CJ, Liu YP. MERTK Inhibition: Potential as a Treatment Strategy in EGFR Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor-Resistant Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14020130. [PMID: 33562150 PMCID: PMC7915726 DOI: 10.3390/ph14020130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Epidermal growth factor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR-TKIs) are currently the most effective treatment for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients, who carry primary EGFR mutations. However, the patients eventually develop drug resistance to EGFR-TKIs after approximately one year. In addition to the acquisition of the EGFR T790M mutation, the activation of alternative receptor-mediated signaling pathways is a common mechanism for conferring the insensitivity of EGFR-TKI in NSCLC. Upregulation of the Mer receptor tyrosine kinase (MERTK), which is a member of the Tyro3-Axl-MERTK (TAM) family, is associated with a poor prognosis of many cancers. The binding of specific ligands, such as Gas6 and PROS1, to MERTK activates phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascades, which are the signaling pathways shared by EGFR. Therefore, the inhibition of MERTK can be considered a new therapeutic strategy for overcoming the resistance of NSCLC to EGFR-targeted agents. Although several small molecules and monoclonal antibodies targeting the TAM family are being developed and have been described to enhance the chemosensitivity and converse the resistance of EGFR-TKI, few have specifically been developed as MERTK inhibitors. The further development and investigation of biomarkers which can accurately predict MERTK activity and the response to MERTK inhibitors and MERTK-specific drugs are vitally important for obtaining appropriate patient stratification and increased benefits in clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao-Ju Chen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan;
| | - Yu-Peng Liu
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Research Center for Environmental Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-7-3121101
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