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Benboubker V, Ramzy GM, Jacobs S, Nowak-Sliwinska P. Challenges in validation of combination treatment strategies for CRC using patient-derived organoids. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2024; 43:259. [PMID: 39261955 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-024-03173-x] [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: 07/17/2024] [Accepted: 08/23/2024] [Indexed: 09/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Patient-derived organoids (PDOs) established from tissues from various tumor types gave the foundation of ex vivo models to screen and/or validate the activity of many cancer drug candidates. Due to their phenotypic and genotypic similarity to the tumor of which they were derived, PDOs offer results that effectively complement those obtained from more complex models. Yet, their potential for predicting sensitivity to combination therapy remains underexplored. In this review, we discuss the use of PDOs in both validation and optimization of multi-drug combinations for personalized treatment strategies in CRC. Moreover, we present recent advancements in enriching PDOs with diverse cell types, enhancing their ability to mimic the complexity of in vivo environments. Finally, we debate how such sophisticated models are narrowing the gap in personalized medicine, particularly through immunotherapy strategies and discuss the challenges and future direction in this promising field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentin Benboubker
- Molecular Pharmacology Group, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Geneva, 1 Rue Michel-Servet, Geneva, 4 1211, Switzerland
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Western Switzerland, University of Geneva, Geneva, 1211, Switzerland
- Translational Research Center in Oncohaematology, Geneva, 1211, Switzerland
| | - George M Ramzy
- Molecular Pharmacology Group, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Geneva, 1 Rue Michel-Servet, Geneva, 4 1211, Switzerland
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Western Switzerland, University of Geneva, Geneva, 1211, Switzerland
- Translational Research Center in Oncohaematology, Geneva, 1211, Switzerland
- Department of Cell Physiology and Metabolism, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, 1211, Switzerland
| | - Sacha Jacobs
- Molecular Pharmacology Group, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Geneva, 1 Rue Michel-Servet, Geneva, 4 1211, Switzerland
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Western Switzerland, University of Geneva, Geneva, 1211, Switzerland
- Translational Research Center in Oncohaematology, Geneva, 1211, Switzerland
| | - Patrycja Nowak-Sliwinska
- Molecular Pharmacology Group, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Geneva, 1 Rue Michel-Servet, Geneva, 4 1211, Switzerland.
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Western Switzerland, University of Geneva, Geneva, 1211, Switzerland.
- Translational Research Center in Oncohaematology, Geneva, 1211, Switzerland.
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Zeng W, Liu H, Mao Y, Jiang S, Yi H, Zhang Z, Wang M, Zong Z. Myeloid‑derived suppressor cells: Key immunosuppressive regulators and therapeutic targets in colorectal cancer (Review). Int J Oncol 2024; 65:85. [PMID: 39054950 PMCID: PMC11299769 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2024.5673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Globally, colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common type of cancer. CRC has no apparent symptoms in the early stages of disease, and most patients receive a confirmed diagnosis in the middle or late disease stages. The incidence of CRC continues to increase, and the affected population tends to be younger. Therefore, determining how to achieve an early CRC diagnosis and treatment has become a top priority for prolonging patient survival. Myeloid‑derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are a group of bone marrow‑derived immuno‑negative regulatory cells that are divided into two subpopulations, polymorphonuclear‑MDSCs and monocytic‑MDSCs, based on their phenotypic similarities to neutrophils and monocytes, respectively. These cells can inhibit the immune response and promote cancer cell metastasis in the tumour microenvironment (TME). A large aggregation of MDSCs in the TME is often a marker of cancer and a poor prognosis in inflammatory diseases of the intestine (such as colonic adenoma and ulcerative colitis). In the present review, the phenotypic classification of MDSCs in the CRC microenvironment are first discussed. Then, the amplification, role and metastatic mechanism of MDSCs in the CRC TME are described, focusing on genes, gene modifications, proteins and the intestinal microenvironment. Finally, the progress in CRC‑targeted therapies that aim to modulate the quantity, function and structure of MDSCs are summarized in the hope of identifying potential screening markers for CRC and improving CRC prognosis and therapeutic options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjuan Zeng
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
- HuanKui Academy, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Haohan Liu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Yuanhao Mao
- Fuzhou Medical College, Nanchang University, Fuzhou, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Shihao Jiang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Hao Yi
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Zitong Zhang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
- HuanKui Academy, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Menghui Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
- HuanKui Academy, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
| | - Zhen Zong
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, P.R. China
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Kong WS, Li JJ, Deng YQ, Ju HQ, Xu RH. Immunomodulatory molecules in colorectal cancer liver metastasis. Cancer Lett 2024; 598:217113. [PMID: 39009068 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.217113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) ranks as the third most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. According to clinical diagnosis and treatment, liver metastasis occurs in approximately 50 % of CRC patients, indicating a poor prognosis. The unique immune tolerance of the liver fosters an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). In the context of tumors, numerous membrane and secreted proteins have been linked to tumor immune evasion as immunomodulatory molecules, but much remains unknown about how these proteins contribute to immune evasion in colorectal cancer liver metastasis (CRLM). This article reviews recently discovered membrane and secreted proteins with roles as both immunostimulatory and immunosuppressive molecules within the TME that influence immune evasion in CRC primary and metastatic lesions, particularly their mechanisms in promoting CRLM. This article also addresses screening strategies for identifying proteins involved in immune evasion in CRLM and provides insights into potential protein targets for treating CRLM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Shuai Kong
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510060, China; Research Unit of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Jia-Jun Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Yu-Qing Deng
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510060, China; Research Unit of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Huai-Qiang Ju
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510060, China; Research Unit of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, 510060, China.
| | - Rui-Hua Xu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510060, China; Research Unit of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment for Gastrointestinal Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, 510060, China.
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4
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Wang X, Gong W, Xiong X, Jia X, Xu J. Asparagine: A key metabolic junction in targeted tumor therapy. Pharmacol Res 2024; 206:107292. [PMID: 39002867 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/15/2024]
Abstract
Nutrient bioavailability in the tumor microenvironment plays a pivotal role in tumor proliferation and metastasis. Among these nutrients, glutamine is a key substance that promotes tumor growth and proliferation, and its downstream metabolite asparagine is also crucial in tumors. Studies have shown that when glutamine is exhausted, tumor cells can rely on asparagine to sustain their growth. Given the reliance of tumor cell proliferation on asparagine, restricting its bioavailability has emerged as promising strategy in cancer treatment. For instance, the use of asparaginase, an enzyme that depletes asparagine, has been one of the key chemotherapies for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). However, tumor cells can adapt to asparagine restriction, leading to reduced chemotherapy efficacy, and the mechanisms by which different genetically altered tumors are sensitized or adapted to asparagine restriction vary. We review the sources of asparagine and explore how limiting its bioavailability impacts the progression of specific genetically altered tumors. It is hoped that by targeting the signaling pathways involved in tumor adaptation to asparagine restriction and certain factors within these pathways, the issue of drug resistance can be addressed. Importantly, these strategies offer precise therapeutic approaches for genetically altered cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Wang
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Women and Children's Healthcare Hospital, Nanjing 210004, China
| | - Weijian Gong
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Women and Children's Healthcare Hospital, Nanjing 210004, China
| | - Xueyou Xiong
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Women and Children's Healthcare Hospital, Nanjing 210004, China
| | - Xuemei Jia
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Women and Children's Healthcare Hospital, Nanjing 210004, China; Nanjing Medical Key Laboratory of Female Fertility Preservation and Restoration, Nanjing 210004, China.
| | - Juan Xu
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Women and Children's Healthcare Hospital, Nanjing 210004, China; Nanjing Medical Key Laboratory of Female Fertility Preservation and Restoration, Nanjing 210004, China.
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5
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Liu X, Ren B, Ren J, Gu M, You L, Zhao Y. The significant role of amino acid metabolic reprogramming in cancer. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:380. [PMID: 39069612 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01760-1] [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: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Amino acid metabolism plays a pivotal role in tumor microenvironment, influencing various aspects of cancer progression. The metabolic reprogramming of amino acids in tumor cells is intricately linked to protein synthesis, nucleotide synthesis, modulation of signaling pathways, regulation of tumor cell metabolism, maintenance of oxidative stress homeostasis, and epigenetic modifications. Furthermore, the dysregulation of amino acid metabolism also impacts tumor microenvironment and tumor immunity. Amino acids can act as signaling molecules that modulate immune cell function and immune tolerance within the tumor microenvironment, reshaping the anti-tumor immune response and promoting immune evasion by cancer cells. Moreover, amino acid metabolism can influence the behavior of stromal cells, such as cancer-associated fibroblasts, regulate ECM remodeling and promote angiogenesis, thereby facilitating tumor growth and metastasis. Understanding the intricate interplay between amino acid metabolism and the tumor microenvironment is of crucial significance. Expanding our knowledge of the multifaceted roles of amino acid metabolism in tumor microenvironment holds significant promise for the development of more effective cancer therapies aimed at disrupting the metabolic dependencies of cancer cells and modulating the tumor microenvironment to enhance anti-tumor immune responses and inhibit tumor progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohong Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, P.R, 100023, China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, P.R, China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, P.R, China
| | - Bo Ren
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, P.R, 100023, China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, P.R, China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, P.R, China
| | - Jie Ren
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, P.R, 100023, China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, P.R, China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, P.R, China
| | - Minzhi Gu
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, P.R, 100023, China
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, P.R, China
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, P.R, China
| | - Lei You
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, P.R, 100023, China.
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, P.R, China.
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, P.R, China.
| | - Yupei Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, P.R, 100023, China.
- Key Laboratory of Research in Pancreatic Tumor, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100023, P.R, China.
- National Science and Technology Key Infrastructure on Translational Medicine in Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, 100023, P.R, China.
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Zhang W, Xie Y, Liu Z, Zhang J, Ni B, Gao W, Xing W, Zhou Y, Si T. The aminophospholipid transporter, ATP8B3, as a potential biomarker and target for enhancing the therapeutic effect of PD-L1 blockade in colon adenocarcinoma. Genomics 2024; 116:110907. [PMID: 39074670 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2024.110907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Colon adenocarcinoma (COAD) is a prevalent malignant tumor globally, contributing significantly to cancer-related mortality. COAD guidelines label MSI (Microsatellite instability) and MSS (Microsatellite stability) subtypes as global classification criteria and treatment strategy selection criteria for COAD. Various combination therapies involving PD-L1 inhibitors and adjuvant therapy to enhance anti-tumor efficacy. METHODS Datasets from single-cell RNA sequencing and bulk RNA sequencing in the TCGA and GEO databases were utilized to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Furthermore, the correlation between ATP8B3 and PD-L1 was validated using siRNA, shRNA, and western blot analysis. Additionally, the association between ATP8B3 and immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapy was investigated through immune infiltration analysis and flow cytometry in both in vivo and in vitro assays. RESULTS In the COAD patient group, ATP8B3 significantly contributed to the establishment of an immunosuppressive microenvironment. Inhibiting ATP8B3 led to a reduction in PD-L1 expression in colon cancer cell lines. Additionally, ATP8B3 expression levels could serve as a potential guide for PD-L1 treatment in MSI-H COAD patients, with higher ATP8B3 expression associated with increased sensitivity to PD-L1 therapy. However, due to the lack of immuno-killer cells in the microenvironment of MSS subtypes, elevated ATP8B3 expression couldn't increase the sensitivity of MSS COAD patients to PD-L1 inhibitors. CONCLUSION Our research results support that Inhibiting ATP8B3 could enhance TIL (tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte) infiltration by reducing PD-L1 expression in MSI-H COAD, thereby serving as an effective strategy to improve PD-L1 blocker efficacy. The treatment strategy of combining ATP8B3 inhibitors and immunotherapy for MSI/MSS COAD patients will be the best choice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weihao Zhang
- Department of Interventional Therapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China; Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Yongjie Xie
- Department of Pancreatic Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin 's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Ziyun Liu
- Department of Pancreatic Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin 's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, China
| | - Bo Ni
- Department of Pancreatic Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin 's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China
| | - Wei Gao
- Department of Interventional Therapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China; Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Wenge Xing
- Department of Interventional Therapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China; Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Yaoyao Zhou
- Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, China.
| | - Tongguo Si
- Department of Interventional Therapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China; Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin, China.
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Nie SC, Jing YH, Lu L, Ren SS, Ji G, Xu HC. Mechanisms of myeloid-derived suppressor cell-mediated immunosuppression in colorectal cancer and related therapies. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2024; 16:1690-1704. [PMID: 38764816 PMCID: PMC11099432 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v16.i5.1690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Severe immunosuppression is a hallmark of colorectal cancer (CRC). Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), one of the most abundant components of the tumor stroma, play an important role in the invasion, metastasis, and immune escape of CRC. MDSCs create an immunosuppressive microenvironment by inhibiting the proliferation and activation of immunoreactive cells, including T and natural killer cells, as well as by inducing the proliferation of immunosuppressive cells, such as regulatory T cells and tumor-associated macrophages, which, in turn, promote the growth of cancer cells. Thus, MDSCs are key contributors to the emergence of an immunosuppressive microenvironment in CRC and play an important role in the breakdown of antitumor immunity. In this narrative review, we explore the mechanisms through which MDSCs contribute to the immunosuppressive microenvironment, the current therapeutic approaches and technologies targeting MDSCs, and the therapeutic potential of modulating MDSCs in CRC treatment. This study provides ideas and methods to enhance survival rates in patients with CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu-Chang Nie
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Longhua Hospital, China-Canada Center of Research for Digestive Diseases, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yan-Hua Jing
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Longhua Hospital, China-Canada Center of Research for Digestive Diseases, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Lu Lu
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Longhua Hospital, China-Canada Center of Research for Digestive Diseases, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Disease and Syndrome Biology of Inflammatory Cancer Transformation, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Si-Si Ren
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Longhua Hospital, China-Canada Center of Research for Digestive Diseases, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Guang Ji
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Longhua Hospital, China-Canada Center of Research for Digestive Diseases, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Disease and Syndrome Biology of Inflammatory Cancer Transformation, Shanghai 200032, China
- State Key Laboratory of Integration and Innovation of Classic Formula and Modern Chinese Medicine (Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine), Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Han-Chen Xu
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Longhua Hospital, China-Canada Center of Research for Digestive Diseases, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 200032, China
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Center of Disease and Syndrome Biology of Inflammatory Cancer Transformation, Shanghai 200032, China
- State Key Laboratory of Integration and Innovation of Classic Formula and Modern Chinese Medicine (Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine), Shanghai 200032, China
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8
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Wang K, Wang Y, Yin K. Role played by MDSC in colitis-associated colorectal cancer and potential therapeutic strategies. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2024; 150:243. [PMID: 38717677 PMCID: PMC11078801 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-024-05755-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
Colitis-associated colorectal cancer has been a hot topic in public health issues worldwide. Numerous studies have demonstrated the significance of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) in the progression of this ailment, but the specific mechanism of their role in the transformation of inflammation to cancer is unclear, and potential therapies targeting MDSC are also unclear. This paper outlines the possible involvement of MDSC to the development of colitis-associated colorectal cancer. It also explores the immune and other relevant roles played by MDSC, and collates relevant targeted therapies against MDSC. In addition, current targeted therapies for colorectal cancer are analyzed and summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kang Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Jiangsu University, Jiefang Road No. 438, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu Province, 212000, China
| | - Yun Wang
- Department of Dermatology, The First People's Hospital of Changzhou, Juqian Street, Changzhou, Jiangsu Province, 213003, China
| | - Kai Yin
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Institute of Digestive Diseases, Jiangsu University, Jiefang Road No. 438, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu Province, 212000, China.
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9
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Yang R, Liu Y, Yang N, Zhang T, Hou J, He Z, Wang Y, Sun X, Shen J, Jiang H, Xie Y, Lang T. Combination of miR159 Mimics and Irinotecan Utilizing Lipid Nanoparticles for Enhanced Treatment of Colorectal Cancer. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:570. [PMID: 38675231 PMCID: PMC11054162 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16040570] [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: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) ranks as the third most prevalent global malignancy, marked by significant metastasis and post-surgical recurrence, posing formidable challenges to treatment efficacy. The integration of oligonucleotides with chemotherapeutic drugs emerges as a promising strategy for synergistic CRC therapy. The nanoformulation, lipid nanoparticle (LNP), presents the capability to achieve co-delivery of oligonucleotides and chemotherapeutic drugs for cancer therapy. In this study, we constructed lipid nanoparticles, termed as LNP-I-V by microfluidics to co-deliver oligonucleotides miR159 mimics (VDX05001SI) and irinotecan (IRT), demonstrating effective treatment of CRC both in vitro and in vivo. The LNP-I-V exhibited a particle size of 118.67 ± 1.27 nm, ensuring excellent stability and targeting delivery to tumor tissues, where it was internalized and escaped from the endosome with a pH-sensitive profile. Ultimately, LNP-I-V significantly inhibited CRC growth, extended the survival of tumor-bearing mice, and displayed favorable safety profiles. Thus, LNP-I-V held promise as an innovative platform to combine gene therapy and chemotherapy for improving CRC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rulei Yang
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China; (R.Y.); (J.S.); (H.J.)
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China;
- Vigonvita Life Sciences Co., Ltd., Suzhou 215125, China
| | - Yiran Liu
- Lingang Laboratory, Shanghai 200031, China; (Y.L.); (N.Y.); (T.Z.); (J.H.); (Z.H.); (Y.W.)
| | - Ning Yang
- Lingang Laboratory, Shanghai 200031, China; (Y.L.); (N.Y.); (T.Z.); (J.H.); (Z.H.); (Y.W.)
| | - Tian Zhang
- Lingang Laboratory, Shanghai 200031, China; (Y.L.); (N.Y.); (T.Z.); (J.H.); (Z.H.); (Y.W.)
| | - Jiazhen Hou
- Lingang Laboratory, Shanghai 200031, China; (Y.L.); (N.Y.); (T.Z.); (J.H.); (Z.H.); (Y.W.)
| | - Zongyan He
- Lingang Laboratory, Shanghai 200031, China; (Y.L.); (N.Y.); (T.Z.); (J.H.); (Z.H.); (Y.W.)
| | - Yutong Wang
- Lingang Laboratory, Shanghai 200031, China; (Y.L.); (N.Y.); (T.Z.); (J.H.); (Z.H.); (Y.W.)
| | - Xujie Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China;
- Lingang Laboratory, Shanghai 200031, China; (Y.L.); (N.Y.); (T.Z.); (J.H.); (Z.H.); (Y.W.)
| | - Jingshan Shen
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China; (R.Y.); (J.S.); (H.J.)
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China;
| | - Hualiang Jiang
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China; (R.Y.); (J.S.); (H.J.)
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China;
- Lingang Laboratory, Shanghai 200031, China; (Y.L.); (N.Y.); (T.Z.); (J.H.); (Z.H.); (Y.W.)
| | - Yuanchao Xie
- Lingang Laboratory, Shanghai 200031, China; (Y.L.); (N.Y.); (T.Z.); (J.H.); (Z.H.); (Y.W.)
| | - Tianqun Lang
- Lingang Laboratory, Shanghai 200031, China; (Y.L.); (N.Y.); (T.Z.); (J.H.); (Z.H.); (Y.W.)
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Xia R, Peng HF, Zhang X, Zhang HS. Comprehensive review of amino acid transporters as therapeutic targets. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 260:129646. [PMID: 38272411 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.129646] [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: 11/24/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
The solute carrier (SLC) family, with more than 400 membrane-bound proteins, facilitates the transport of a wide array of substrates such as nutrients, ions, metabolites, and drugs across biological membranes. Amino acid transporters (AATs) are membrane transport proteins that mediate transfer of amino acids into and out of cells or cellular organelles. AATs participate in many important physiological functions including nutrient supply, metabolic transformation, energy homeostasis, redox regulation, and neurological regulation. Several AATs have been found to significantly impact the progression of human malignancies, and dysregulation of AATs results in metabolic reprogramming affecting tumor growth and progression. However, current clinical therapies that directly target AATs have not been developed. The purpose of this review is to highlight the structural and functional diversity of AATs, the molecular mechanisms in human diseases such as tumors, kidney diseases, and emerging therapeutic strategies for targeting AATs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ran Xia
- College of Chemistry and Life Science, Beijing University of Technology, Pingleyuan 100(#), District of Chaoyang, Beijing 100124, China
| | - Hai-Feng Peng
- College of Chemistry and Life Science, Beijing University of Technology, Pingleyuan 100(#), District of Chaoyang, Beijing 100124, China
| | - Xing Zhang
- College of Chemistry and Life Science, Beijing University of Technology, Pingleyuan 100(#), District of Chaoyang, Beijing 100124, China
| | - Hong-Sheng Zhang
- College of Chemistry and Life Science, Beijing University of Technology, Pingleyuan 100(#), District of Chaoyang, Beijing 100124, China.
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Wang H, Nie C, Luo M, Bai Q, Yao Z, Lv H, Chen B, Wang J, Xu W, Wang S, Chen X. Novel GSH-responsive prodrugs derived from indole-chalcone and camptothecin trigger apoptosis and autophagy in colon cancer. Bioorg Chem 2024; 143:107056. [PMID: 38183685 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2023.107056] [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: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/08/2024]
Abstract
Antineoplastic agents that target tubulin have shown efficacy as chemotherapeutic drugs, yet they are often constrained by multidrug resistance (MDR) and unwanted side effects. A multi-targeted strategy demonstrates great potency in reducing toxicity and enhancing efficacy and provides an alternative way for attenuating MDR. In this study, a series of dual-targeted anti-cancer agents based on indole-chalcone derivatives and the camptothecin (CPT) scaffold were synthesized. Among them, 14-1 demonstrated superior anti-proliferative activity than its precursor 13-1, CPT or their physical mixtures against tested cancer cells, including multidrug-resistant variants, while exhibited moderate cytotoxicity toward human normal cells. Mechanistic studies revealed that 14-1 acted as a glutathione-responsive prodrug, inducing apoptosis by substantially enhancing intracellular uptake of CPT, inhibiting tubulin polymerization, increasing the accumulation of intracellular reactive oxygen species, and initiating a mitochondrion-dependent apoptotic pathway. Moreover, 14-1 notably induced autophagy and suppressed topoisomerase I activity to further promote apoptosis. Importantly, 14-1 displayed potent inhibitory effect on tumor growth in paclitaxel (PTX)-resistant colorectal cancer (HCT-116/PTX) xenograft models without inducing obvious toxicity compared with CPT- or combo-treated group. These results suggest that 14-1 holds promise as a novel candidate for anti-cancer therapy, particularly in PTX-resistant cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Wang
- Department of Endoscopic Center, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450008, China; Henan Engineering Research Center of Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450008, China; Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450008, China
| | - Caiyun Nie
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450008, China; Henan Engineering Research Center of Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450008, China; Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450008, China
| | - Miao Luo
- Department of Endoscopic Center, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450008, China
| | - Qiwen Bai
- Department of Endoscopic Center, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450008, China
| | - Zhentao Yao
- Department of Endoscopic Center, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450008, China
| | - Huifang Lv
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450008, China; Henan Engineering Research Center of Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450008, China; Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450008, China
| | - Beibei Chen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450008, China; Henan Engineering Research Center of Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450008, China; Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450008, China
| | - Jianzheng Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450008, China; Henan Engineering Research Center of Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450008, China; Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450008, China
| | - Weifeng Xu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450008, China; Henan Engineering Research Center of Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450008, China; Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450008, China
| | - Saiqi Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450008, China; Henan Engineering Research Center of Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450008, China; Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450008, China
| | - Xiaobing Chen
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Cancer Hospital, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450008, China; Henan Engineering Research Center of Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450008, China; Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer, Zhengzhou, Henan Province 450008, China.
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