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Liu W, Sun Y, Huo Y, Zhang L, Zhang N, Yang M. Circular RNAs in lung cancer: implications for preventing therapeutic resistance. EBioMedicine 2024; 107:105309. [PMID: 39191172 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2024.105309] [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: 05/19/2024] [Revised: 08/11/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
LC is one of the most common malignant tumours that often presents with no distinct symptoms in the early stages, leading to late diagnoses when patients are at an advanced stage and no longer suitable for surgical treatment. Although adjuvant treatments are available, patients frequently develop tolerance to these treatments over time, resulting in poor prognoses for patients with advanced LC. Recently, circular RNAs (circRNAs), a type of non-coding RNA, have gained significant attention in LC research. Owing to their unique circular structure, circRNAs are highly stable within cells. This review systematically summarises the expression, characteristics, biological functions, and molecular regulatory mechanisms of circRNAs involved in therapy resistance as well as the potential applications in early diagnosis and gene targeting therapy in LC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjuan Liu
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Oncology, Cancer Research Center, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, 250117, China; School of Life Sciences, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Taian, 271021, Shandong Province, China
| | - Yawen Sun
- Department of Scientific Research and Education, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, 250117, China
| | - Yanfei Huo
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Oncology, Cancer Research Center, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, 250117, China
| | - Long Zhang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Oncology, Cancer Research Center, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, 250117, China
| | - Nasha Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Jinan, Shandong Province, China; Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China.
| | - Ming Yang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Oncology, Cancer Research Center, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, 250117, China; School of Life Sciences, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Taian, 271021, Shandong Province, China; Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China.
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2
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Peng D, Wei C, Jing B, Yu R, Zhang Z, Han L. A novel protein encoded by circCOPA inhibits the malignant phenotype of glioblastoma cells and increases their sensitivity to temozolomide by disrupting the NONO-SFPQ complex. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:616. [PMID: 39183343 PMCID: PMC11345445 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-07010-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2024] [Revised: 08/10/2024] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024]
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) represents a primary malignant brain tumor. Temozolomide resistance is a major hurdle in GBM treatment. Proteins encoded by circular RNAs (circRNAs) can modulate the sensitivity of multiple tumor chemotherapies. However, the impact of circRNA-encoded proteins on GBM sensitivity to temozolomide remains unknown. Herein, we discover a circRNA (circCOPA) through the circRNA microarray profile in GBM samples, which can encode a novel 99 amino acid protein (COPA-99aa) through its internal ribosome entry site. Functionally, circCOPA overexpression in GBM cells inhibits cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in vitro and growth in vivo. Rather than itself, circCOPA mainly functions as a suppressive effector by encoding COPA-99aa. Moreover, we reveal that circCOPA is downregulated in GBM tissues and high expression of circCOPA is related to a better prognosis in GBM patients. Mechanistically, a heteromer of SFPQ and NONO is required for double-strand DNA break repair. COPA-99aa disrupts the dimerization of NONO and SFPQ by separately binding with the NONO and SFPQ proteins, thus resulting in the inhibition of proliferation or invasion and the increase of temozolomide-induced DNA damage in GBM cells. Collectively, our data suggest that circCOPA mainly contributes to inhibiting the GBM malignant phenotype through its encoded COPA-99aa and that COPA-99aa increases temozolomide-induced DNA damage by interfering with the dimerization of NONO and SFPQ. Restoring circCOPA or COPA-99aa may increase the sensitivity of patients to temozolomide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dazhao Peng
- Tianjin Neurological Institute, Key Laboratory of Post-Neuro injury, Neuro-repair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education and Tianjin City, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Cheng Wei
- Tianjin Neurological Institute, Key Laboratory of Post-Neuro injury, Neuro-repair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education and Tianjin City, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Boyuan Jing
- Tianjin Neurological Institute, Key Laboratory of Post-Neuro injury, Neuro-repair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education and Tianjin City, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Runze Yu
- Tianjin Neurological Institute, Key Laboratory of Post-Neuro injury, Neuro-repair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education and Tianjin City, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhenyu Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
| | - Lei Han
- Tianjin Neurological Institute, Key Laboratory of Post-Neuro injury, Neuro-repair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education and Tianjin City, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China.
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Zhang W, Xu C, Yang Z, Zhou J, Peng W, Zhang X, Li H, Qu S, Tao K. Circular RNAs in tumor immunity and immunotherapy. Mol Cancer 2024; 23:171. [PMID: 39169354 PMCID: PMC11337656 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-024-02082-z] [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: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 08/13/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are unique noncoding RNAs that have a closed and stable loop structure generated through backsplicing. Due to their conservation, stability and tissue specificity, circRNAs can potentially be used as diagnostic indicators and therapeutic targets for certain tumors. Many studies have shown that circRNAs can act as microRNA (miRNA) sponges, and engage in interactions with proteins and translation templates to regulate gene expression and signal transduction, thereby participating in the occurrence and development of a variety of malignant tumors. Immunotherapy has revolutionized the treatment of cancer. Early researches have indicated that circRNAs are involved in regulating tumor immune microenvironment and antitumor immunity. CircRNAs may have the potential to be important targets for increasing sensitivity to immunotherapy and expanding the population of patients who benefit from cancer immunotherapy. However, few studies have investigated the correlation between circRNAs and tumor immunity. In this review, we summarize the current researches on circRNAs involved in antitumor immune regulation through different mechanisms and their potential value in increasing immunotherapy efficacy with the goal of providing new targets for cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjie Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China
| | - Chen Xu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China
| | - Zhipeng Yang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710069, China
| | - Jingshi Zhou
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China
| | - Wei Peng
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China
| | - Xuan Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China
| | - Haimin Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China
| | - Shibin Qu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China.
| | - Kaishan Tao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710032, China.
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Saadh MJ, Hussain QM, Alazzawi TS, Fahdil AA, Athab ZH, Yarmukhamedov B, Al-Nuaimi AMA, Alsaikhan F, Farhood B. MicroRNA as Key Players in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Insights into Their Role in Metastasis. Biochem Genet 2024:10.1007/s10528-024-10897-0. [PMID: 39103713 DOI: 10.1007/s10528-024-10897-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024]
Abstract
Liver cancer or hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains the most common cancer in global epidemiology. Both the frequency and fatality of this malignancy have shown an upward trend over recent decades. Liver cancer is a significant concern due to its propensity for both intrahepatic and extrahepatic metastasis. Liver cancer metastasis is a multifaceted process characterized by cell detachment from the bulk tumor, modulation of cellular motility and invasiveness, enhanced proliferation, avoidance of the immune system, and spread either via lymphatic or blood vessels. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding ribonucleic acids (RNAs) playing a crucial function in the intricate mechanisms of tumor metastasis. A number of miRNAs can either increase or reduce metastasis via several mechanisms, such as control of motility, proliferation, attack by the immune system, cancer stem cell properties, altering the microenvironment, and the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Besides, two other types of non-coding RNAs, such as long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and circular RNAs (circRNAs) can competitively bind to endogenous miRNAs. This competition results in the impaired ability of the miRNAs to inhibit the expression of the specific messenger RNAs (mRNAs) that are targeted. Increasing evidence has shown that the regulatory axis comprising circRNA/lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA is correlated with the regulation of HCC metastasis. This review seeks to present a thorough summary of recent research on miRNAs in HCC, and their roles in the cellular processes of EMT, invasion and migration, as well as the metastasis of malignant cells. Finally, we discuss the function of the lncRNA/circRNA-miRNA-mRNA network as a crucial modulator of carcinogenesis and the regulation of signaling pathways or genes that are relevant to the metastasis of HCC. These findings have the potential to offer valuable insight into the discovery of novel therapeutic approaches for management of liver cancer metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed J Saadh
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Middle East University, Amman, 11831, Jordan
| | | | - Tuqa S Alazzawi
- College of Dentist, National University of Science and Technology, Nasiriyah, Dhi Qar, Iraq
| | - Ali A Fahdil
- Medical Technical College, Al-Farahidi University, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Zainab H Athab
- Department of Pharmacy, Al-Zahrawi University College, Karbala, Iraq
| | - Bekhzod Yarmukhamedov
- Department of Public Health and Healthcare management, Samarkand State Medical University, 18 Amir Temur Street, Samarkand, Uzbekistan
| | | | - Fahad Alsaikhan
- College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Alkharj, Saudi Arabia.
- School of Pharmacy, Ibn Sina National College for Medical Studies, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Bagher Farhood
- Department of Medical Physics and Radiology, Faculty of Paramedical Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran.
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Shao Y, Yu X, Hu M, Yan J, Miao M, Ye G, Guo J. Acting mechanism and clinical significance of hsa_circ_0005927 in the invasion and metastasis of gastric cancer. J Cancer 2024; 15:4081-4094. [PMID: 38947400 PMCID: PMC11212095 DOI: 10.7150/jca.96749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: An increasing number of studies have demonstrated that differentially expressed circular RNAs (circRNAs) play critical roles in carcinogenesis. However, the biological function and clinical significance of hsa_circ_0005927 during gastric carcinogenesis remain unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the acting mechanism and clinical significance of hsa_circ_0005927 in the invasion and metastasis of gastric cancer (GC). Methods: Hsa_circ_0005927 was detected in GC tissues, plasma and gastric juice from patients with GC, and its correlations with clinicopathological parameters were investigated. Receiver operating characteristic curves, Kaplan-Meier survival curves and a prognostic nomogram model were generated to analyze the diagnostic and prognostic value. Real-time cell analyzer, plate colony formation, and Transwell migration and invasion assays were utilized to assess GC cell proliferation, migration and invasion, respectively. Nucleoplasmic separation was applied to determine the distribution of hsa_circ_0005927 in cells. TargetScan and miRanda software were used for target microRNA (miRNA) prediction. Transcriptome sequencing and bioinformatics analysis were performed to annotate the functions of hsa_circ_0005927 in gastric carcinogenesis and metastasis from an RNomic perspective. Key target genes and immune cell infiltrations were analysed. Results: Hsa_circ_0005927 was found downregulated in high-grade intraepithelial neoplasia (HGIEN) tissues and GC tissues. Hsa_circ_0005927 levels in GC tissues were negatively correlated not only with lymphatic metastasis and distal metastasis but also with overall survival and disease-free survival. As a screening biomarker for GC, plasma hsa_circ_0005927 levels significantly increased in the early stages of GC, with a sensitivity and specificity of 52.38% and 76.19%, respectively. Hsa_circ_0005927 was mainly distributed in the cytoplasm, and structurally, it possesses multiple miRNA response elements (MREs) that interact with five miRNAs. A total of 421 downstream target genes of hsa_circ_0005927 were identified by transcriptome sequencing; and bioinformatics analysis suggested that these genes were involved mainly in the negative regulation of the T-cell apoptotic process, the interleukin-27-mediated signaling pathway, growth factor activity, guanylate cyclase activity, transcriptional misregulation in cancer, the cGMP-PKG signaling pathway, and the GnRH signaling pathway during gastric carcinogenesis and metastasis. GUCY1A2 and STK32A are key target genes significantly associated with immune infiltration. Conclusion: Our study revealed that hsa_circ_0005927 is a new player related to the invasion and metastasis of GC and is a potential indicator for early GC screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongfu Shao
- Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo 315020, China
| | - Xuan Yu
- Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
| | - Meng Hu
- Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
| | - Jianing Yan
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo 315020, China
| | - Min Miao
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo 315020, China
| | - Guoliang Ye
- Department of Gastroenterology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo 315020, China
- Institute of Digestive Disease of Ningbo University, Ningbo 315020, China
| | - Junming Guo
- Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
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Fan T, Jiang L, Zhou X, Chi H, Zeng X. Deciphering the dual roles of PHD finger proteins from oncogenic drivers to tumor suppressors. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1403396. [PMID: 38813086 PMCID: PMC11133592 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1403396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
PHD (plant homeodomain) finger proteins emerge as central epigenetic readers and modulators in cancer biology, orchestrating a broad spectrum of cellular processes pivotal to oncogenesis and tumor suppression. This review delineates the dualistic roles of PHD fingers in cancer, highlighting their involvement in chromatin remodeling, gene expression regulation, and interactions with cellular signaling networks. PHD fingers' ability to interpret specific histone modifications underscores their influence on gene expression patterns, impacting crucial cancer-related processes such as cell proliferation, DNA repair, and apoptosis. The review delves into the oncogenic potential of certain PHD finger proteins, exemplified by PHF1 and PHF8, which promote tumor progression through epigenetic dysregulation and modulation of signaling pathways like Wnt and TGFβ. Conversely, it discusses the tumor-suppressive functions of PHD finger proteins, such as PHF2 and members of the ING family, which uphold genomic stability and inhibit tumor growth through their interactions with chromatin and transcriptional regulators. Additionally, the review explores the therapeutic potential of targeting PHD finger proteins in cancer treatment, considering their pivotal roles in regulating cancer stem cells and influencing the immune response to cancer therapy. Through a comprehensive synthesis of current insights, this review underscores the complex but promising landscape of PHD finger proteins in cancer biology, advocating for further research to unlock novel therapeutic avenues that leverage their unique cellular roles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingyu Fan
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory of Tumor Cellular and Molecular Pathology, Cancer Research Institute, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Lai Jiang
- Clinical Medical College, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Xuancheng Zhou
- Clinical Medical College, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Hao Chi
- Clinical Medical College, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Xi Zeng
- Hunan Province Key Laboratory of Tumor Cellular and Molecular Pathology, Cancer Research Institute, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, China
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Liu Q, Li S. Exosomal circRNAs: Novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets for urinary tumors. Cancer Lett 2024; 588:216759. [PMID: 38417667 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/01/2024]
Abstract
Exosomal circRNAs have emerged as promising biomarkers and therapeutic targets for urinary tumors. In this review, we explored the intricate role of exosomal circRNAs in urological cancers, focusing on their biological functions, dysregulation in tumors, and potential clinical applications. The review delves into the mechanisms by which exosomal circRNAs contribute to tumor progression and highlights their diagnostic and therapeutic implications. By synthesizing current research findings, we present a compelling case for the significance of exosomal circRNAs in the context of urinary tumors. Furthermore, the review discusses the challenges and opportunities associated with utilizing exosomal circRNAs as diagnostic tools and targeted therapeutic agents. There is a need for further research to elucidate the specific mechanisms of exosomal circRNA secretion and delivery, as well as to enhance the detection methods for clinical translational applications. Overall, this comprehensive review underscores the pivotal role of exosomal circRNAs in urinary tumors and underscores their potential as valuable biomarkers and therapeutic tools in the management of urological cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Liu
- Department of Urology, Cancer Hospital of Dalian University of Technology, Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shenyang, 110042, Liaoning, China
| | - Shenglong Li
- Second Ward of Bone and Soft Tissue Tumor Surgery, Cancer Hospital of Dalian University of Technology, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Hospital & Institute, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110042, China; The Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Interdisciplinary Research on Gastrointestinal Tumor Combining Medicine with Engineering, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110042, China.
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Wang S, Xiong Y, Zhang Y, Wang H, Chen M, Li J, Luo P, Luo YH, Hecht M, Frey B, Gaipl U, Li X, Zhao Q, Ma H, Zhou JG. TCCIA: a comprehensive resource for exploring CircRNA in cancer immunotherapy. J Immunother Cancer 2024; 12:e008040. [PMID: 38212124 PMCID: PMC10806567 DOI: 10.1136/jitc-2023-008040] [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] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immunotherapies targeting immune checkpoints have gained increasing attention in cancer treatment, emphasizing the need for predictive biomarkers. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have emerged as critical regulators of tumor immunity, particularly in the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway, and have shown potential in predicting immunotherapy efficacy. Yet, the detailed roles of circRNAs in cancer immunotherapy are not fully understood. While existing databases focus on either circRNA profiles or immunotherapy cohorts, there is currently no platform that enables the exploration of the intricate interplay between circRNAs and anti-tumor immunotherapy. A comprehensive resource combining circRNA profiles, immunotherapy responses, and clinical outcomes is essential to advance our understanding of circRNA-mediated tumor-immune interactions and to develop effective biomarkers. METHODS To address these gaps, we constructed The Cancer CircRNA Immunome Atlas (TCCIA), the first database that combines circRNA profiles, immunotherapy response data, and clinical outcomes across multicancer types. The construction of TCCIA involved applying standardized preprocessing to the raw sequencing FASTQ files, characterizing circRNA profiles using an ensemble approach based on four established circRNA detection tools, analyzing tumor immunophenotypes, and compiling immunotherapy response data from diverse cohorts treated with immune checkpoint blockades (ICBs). RESULTS TCCIA encompasses over 4,000 clinical samples obtained from 25 cohorts treated with ICBs along with other treatment modalities. The database provides researchers and clinicians with a cloud-based platform that enables interactive exploration of circRNA data in the context of ICB. The platform offers a range of analytical tools, including browse of identified circRNAs, visualization of circRNA abundance and correlation, association analysis between circRNAs and clinical variables, assessment of the tumor immune microenvironment, exploration of tumor molecular signatures, evaluation of treatment response or prognosis, and identification of altered circRNAs in immunotherapy-sensitive and resistant tumors. To illustrate the utility of TCCIA, we showcase two examples, including circTMTC3 and circMGA, by employing analysis of large-scale melanoma and bladder cancer cohorts, which unveil distinct impacts and clinical implications of different circRNA expression in cancer immunotherapy. CONCLUSIONS TCCIA represents a significant advancement over existing resources, providing a comprehensive platform to investigate the role of circRNAs in immuno-oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shixiang Wang
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, People's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi Xiong
- Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, People's Republic of China
- Hunan International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Brain Tumor Research, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, People's Republic of China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, People's Republic of China
| | - Yihao Zhang
- Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, People's Republic of China
- Hunan International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Brain Tumor Research, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, People's Republic of China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, People's Republic of China
| | - Haitao Wang
- Center for Precision Medicine Research and Training, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macau SAR, People's Republic of China
| | - Minjun Chen
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianfeng Li
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Shanghai Institute of Hematology, National Research Center for Translational Medicine, Rui-Jin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Peng Luo
- Department of Oncology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Yung-Hung Luo
- Department of Chest Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Markus Hecht
- Department of Radiotherapy and Radiation Oncology, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg, Germany
| | - Benjamin Frey
- Translational Radiobiology, Department of Radiation Oncology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Erlangen, Germany
- FAU Profile Center Immunomedicine (FAU I-MED), Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Udo Gaipl
- Translational Radiobiology, Department of Radiation Oncology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Erlangen, Germany
- FAU Profile Center Immunomedicine (FAU I-MED), Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Xuejun Li
- Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, People's Republic of China
- Hunan International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Brain Tumor Research, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, People's Republic of China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, People's Republic of China
| | - Qi Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Diagnosis and Therapy, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Hu Ma
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, People's Republic of China
| | - Jian-Guo Zhou
- Department of Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, People's Republic of China
- Translational Radiobiology, Department of Radiation Oncology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN, Erlangen, Germany
- FAU Profile Center Immunomedicine (FAU I-MED), Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
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Agirre-Lizaso A, Huici-Izagirre M, Urretabizkaia-Garmendia J, Rodrigues PM, Banales JM, Perugorria MJ. Targeting the Heterogeneous Tumour-Associated Macrophages in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4977. [PMID: 37894344 PMCID: PMC10605535 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15204977] [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: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a prevalent and aggressive cancer that comprises a complex tumour microenvironment (TME). Tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs) are one of the most abundant immune cells present in the TME, and play a key role both in the development and in the progression of HCC. Thus, TAM-based immunotherapy has been presented as a promising strategy to complement the currently available therapies for HCC treatment. Among the novel approaches focusing on TAMs, reprogramming their functional state has emerged as a promising option for targeting TAMs as an immunotherapy in combination with the currently available treatment options. Nevertheless, a further understanding of the immunobiology of TAMs is still required. This review synthesizes current insights into the heterogeneous nature of TAMs in HCC and describes the mechanisms behind their pro-tumoural polarization focusing the attention on their interaction with HCC cells. Furthermore, this review underscores the potential involvement of TAMs' reprogramming in HCC therapy and highlights the urgency of advancing our understanding of these cells within the dynamic landscape of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aloña Agirre-Lizaso
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV-EHU), 20014 Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain; (A.A.-L.); (M.H.-I.); (J.U.-G.); (P.M.R.); (J.M.B.)
| | - Maider Huici-Izagirre
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV-EHU), 20014 Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain; (A.A.-L.); (M.H.-I.); (J.U.-G.); (P.M.R.); (J.M.B.)
| | - Josu Urretabizkaia-Garmendia
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV-EHU), 20014 Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain; (A.A.-L.); (M.H.-I.); (J.U.-G.); (P.M.R.); (J.M.B.)
| | - Pedro M. Rodrigues
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV-EHU), 20014 Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain; (A.A.-L.); (M.H.-I.); (J.U.-G.); (P.M.R.); (J.M.B.)
- Centre for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, 48009 Bilbao, Spain
| | - Jesus M. Banales
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV-EHU), 20014 Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain; (A.A.-L.); (M.H.-I.); (J.U.-G.); (P.M.R.); (J.M.B.)
- Centre for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, 48009 Bilbao, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, School of Sciences, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Maria J. Perugorria
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV-EHU), 20014 Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain; (A.A.-L.); (M.H.-I.); (J.U.-G.); (P.M.R.); (J.M.B.)
- Centre for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 20014 Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain
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10
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Li J, Song Y, Cai H, Zhou B, Ma J. Roles of circRNA dysregulation in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma tumor microenvironment. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1153207. [PMID: 37384299 PMCID: PMC10299836 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1153207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is the most prevalent histological esophageal cancer characterized by advanced diagnosis, metastasis, resistance to treatment, and frequent recurrence. In recent years, numerous human disorders such as ESCC, have been linked to abnormal expression of circular RNAs (circRNAs), suggesting that they are fundamental to the intricate system of gene regulation that governs ESCC formation. The tumor microenvironment (TME), referring to the area surrounding the tumor cells, is composed of multiple components, including stromal cells, immune cells, the vascular system, extracellular matrix (ECM), and numerous signaling molecules. In this review, we briefly described the biological purposes and mechanisms of aberrant circRNA expression in the TME of ESCC, including the immune microenvironment, angiogenesis, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, hypoxia, metabolism, and radiotherapy resistance. As in-depth research into the processes of circRNAs in the TME of ESCC continues, circRNAs are promising therapeutic targets or delivery systems for cancer therapy and diagnostic and prognostic indicators for ESCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingyi Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Yuxia Song
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Huihong Cai
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Bo Zhou
- Medical Research Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Jun Ma
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
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11
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Alsayed RKME, Sheikhan KSAM, Alam MA, Buddenkotte J, Steinhoff M, Uddin S, Ahmad A. Epigenetic programing of cancer stemness by transcription factors-non-coding RNAs interactions. Semin Cancer Biol 2023; 92:74-83. [PMID: 37054905 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2023.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
Cancer 'stemness' is fundamental to cancer existence. It defines the ability of cancer cells to indefinitely perpetuate as well as differentiate. Cancer stem cell populations within a growing tumor also help evade the inhibitory effects of chemo- as well as radiation-therapies, in addition to playing an important role in cancer metastases. NF-κB and STAT-3 are representative transcription factors (TFs) that have long been associated with cancer stemness, thus presenting as attractive targets for cancer therapy. The growing interest in non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) in the recent years has provided further insight into the mechanisms by which TFs influence cancer stem cell characteristics. There is evidence for a direct regulation of TFs by ncRNAs, such as, microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) as well as circular RNAs (circRNAs), and vice versa. Additionally, the TF-ncRNAs regulations are often indirect, involving ncRNA-target genes or the sponging of other ncRNA species by individual ncRNAs. The information is rapidly evolving and this review provides a comprehensive review of TF-ncRNAs interactions with implications on cancer stemness and in response to therapies. Such knowledge will help uncover the many levels of tight regulations that control cancer stemness, providing novel opportunities and targets for therapy in the process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reem Khaled M E Alsayed
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, 3050, Qatar
| | | | - Majid Ali Alam
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, 3050, Qatar; Dermatology Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, 3050, Qatar; Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Rumailah Hospital, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, 3050, Qatar
| | - Jorg Buddenkotte
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, 3050, Qatar; Dermatology Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, 3050, Qatar; Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Rumailah Hospital, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, 3050, Qatar
| | - Martin Steinhoff
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, 3050, Qatar; Dermatology Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, 3050, Qatar; Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Rumailah Hospital, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, 3050, Qatar; Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Medical School, Doha, 24144, Qatar; Dept. of Dermatology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, 10065, NY, USA
| | - Shahab Uddin
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, 3050, Qatar; Dermatology Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, 3050, Qatar; Laboratory Animal Research Center, Qatar University, Doha, 2713, Qatar
| | - Aamir Ahmad
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, 3050, Qatar; Dermatology Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, 3050, Qatar; Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Rumailah Hospital, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, 3050, Qatar.
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