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Wang Z, Chen H, Sun L, Wang X, Xu Y, Tian S, Liu X. Uncovering the potential of APOD as a biomarker in gastric cancer: A retrospective and multi-center study. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 23:1051-1064. [PMID: 38455068 PMCID: PMC10918487 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2024.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) poses a significant health challenge worldwide, necessitating the identification of predictive biomarkers to improve prognosis. Dysregulated lipid metabolism is a well-recognized hallmark of tumorigenesis, prompting investigation into apolipoproteins (APOs). In this study, we focused on apolipoprotein D (APOD) following comprehensive analyses of APOs in pan-cancer. Utilizing data from the TCGA-STAD and GSE62254 cohorts, we elucidated associations between APOD expression and multiple facets of GC, including prognosis, tumor microenvironment (TME), cancer biomarkers, mutations, and immunotherapy response, and identified potential anti-GC drugs. Single-cell analyses and immunohistochemical staining confirmed APOD expression in fibroblasts within the GC microenvironment. Additionally, we independently validated the prognostic significance of APOD in the ZN-GC cohort. Our comprehensive analyses revealed that high APOD expression in GC patients was notably associated with unfavorable clinical outcomes, reduced microsatellite instability and tumor mutation burden, alterations in the TME, and diminished response to immunotherapy. These findings provide valuable insights into the potential prognostic and therapeutic implications of APOD in GC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zisong Wang
- Department of Pathology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei Province, China
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei Province, China
| | - Hongshan Chen
- Department of Pathology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei Province, China
| | - Le Sun
- Department of Urology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei Province, China
| | - Xuanyu Wang
- Department of Urology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei Province, China
| | - Yihang Xu
- Department of Pathology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei Province, China
| | - Sufang Tian
- Department of Pathology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei Province, China
| | - Xiaoping Liu
- Department of Pathology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, Hubei Province, China
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2
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Barros da Silva P, Oliveira RJA, Araújo M, Caires HR, Bidarra SJ, Barrias CC. An integrative alginate-based 3D in vitro model to explore epithelial-stromal cell dynamics in the breast tumor microenvironment. Carbohydr Polym 2024; 342:122363. [PMID: 39048221 DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2024.122363] [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: 03/18/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) orchestrates cellular and extracellular matrix (ECM) interactions, playing a key role in tumorigenesis, tumor growth, and metastization. Investigating the interplay between stromal-epithelial cells within the TME is paramount for understanding cancer mechanisms but demands reliable biological models. 3D-models have emerged as powerful in vitro tools, but many fall short in replicating cell-cell/cell-matrix interactions. This study introduces a novel hybrid 3D-model of the breast TME, combining epithelial cells, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), and their ECM. To build the stromal compartment, porous 3D-printed alginate scaffolds were seeded with CAFs, which proliferated and produced ECM. The pores were infused with oxidized peptide-modified alginate hydrogel laden with MCF10A cells, forming the parenchymal compartment. The hybrid system supported epithelial morphogenesis into acini surrounded by fibroblasts and ECM, and could be readily solubilized to recover cells, their matrix, and sequestered soluble factors. Proteome profiling of the retrieved ECM showed upregulation of proteins associated with matrix assembly/remodeling, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and cancer. The TME-like microenvironment induced a partial EMT in MCF10A cells, generating a hybrid population with epithelial and mesenchymal features, characteristic of aggressive phenotypes. Our model provided new insights into epithelial-stromal interactions within the TME, offering a valuable tool for cancer research in a physiologically-relevant 3D setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Barros da Silva
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 5 Porto, Portugal; INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal; FEUP - Faculdade de Engenharia da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - R J A Oliveira
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 5 Porto, Portugal; INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal; FEUP - Faculdade de Engenharia da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal; ICBAS - Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - M Araújo
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 5 Porto, Portugal; INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - H R Caires
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 5 Porto, Portugal; INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - S J Bidarra
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 5 Porto, Portugal; INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - C C Barrias
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 5 Porto, Portugal; INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal; ICBAS - Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal.
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Li M, Freeman S, Franco-Barraza J, Cai KQ, Kim A, Jin S, Cukierman E, Ye K. A bioprinted sea-and-island multicellular model for dissecting human pancreatic tumor-stroma reciprocity and adaptive metabolism. Biomaterials 2024; 310:122631. [PMID: 38815457 PMCID: PMC11186049 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2024.122631] [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: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 05/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) presents a formidable clinical challenge due to its intricate microenvironment characterized by desmoplasia and complex tumor-stroma interactions. Conventional models hinder studying cellular crosstalk for therapeutic development. To recapitulate key features of PDAC masses, this study creates a novel sea-and-island PDAC tumor construct (s&i PTC). The s&i PTC consists of 3D-printed islands of human PDAC cells positioned within an interstitial extracellular matrix (ECM) populated by human cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). This design closely mimics the in vivo desmoplastic architecture and nutrient-poor conditions. The model enables studying dynamic tumor-stroma crosstalk and signaling reciprocity, revealing both known and yet-to-be-discovered multicellular metabolic adaptations. Using the model, we discovered the orchestrated dynamic alterations of CAFs under nutrient stress, resembling critical in vivo human tumor niches, such as the secretion of pro-tumoral inflammatory factors. Additionally, nutrient scarcity induces dynamic alterations in the ECM composition and exacerbates poor cancer cell differentiation-features well-established in PDAC progression. Proteomic analysis unveiled the enrichment of proteins associated with aggressive tumor behavior and ECM remodeling in response to poor nutritional conditions, mimicking the metabolic stresses experienced by avascular pancreatic tumor cores. Importantly, the model's relevance to patient outcomes is evident through an inverse correlation between biomarker expression patterns in the s&i PTCs and PDAC patient survival rates. Key findings include upregulated MMPs and key ECM proteins (such as collagen 11 and TGFβ) under nutrient-avid conditions, known to be regulated by CAFs, alongside the concomitant reduction in E-cadherin expression associated with a poorly differentiated PDAC state under nutrient deprivation. Furthermore, elevated levels of hyaluronic acid (HA) and integrins in response to nutrient deprivation underscore the model's fidelity to the PDAC microenvironment. We also observed increased IL-6 and reduced α-SMA expression under poor nutritional conditions, suggesting a transition of CAFs from myofibroblastic to inflammatory phenotypes under a nutrient stress akin to in vivo niches. In conclusion, the s&i PTC represents a significant advancement in engineering clinically relevant 3D models of PDAC masses. It offers a promising platform for elucidating tumor-stroma interactions and guiding future therapeutic strategies to improve patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Center of Biomanufacturing for Regenerative Medicine, Binghamton University, SUNY, Binghamton, NY, USA
| | - Sebastian Freeman
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Center of Biomanufacturing for Regenerative Medicine, Binghamton University, SUNY, Binghamton, NY, USA
| | - Janusz Franco-Barraza
- Cancer Signaling and Microenvironment Program, Marvin and Concetta Greenberg Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Lewis Katz Temple School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Kathy Q Cai
- Cancer Signaling and Microenvironment Program, Marvin and Concetta Greenberg Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Lewis Katz Temple School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Amy Kim
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Center of Biomanufacturing for Regenerative Medicine, Binghamton University, SUNY, Binghamton, NY, USA
| | - Sha Jin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Center of Biomanufacturing for Regenerative Medicine, Binghamton University, SUNY, Binghamton, NY, USA
| | - Edna Cukierman
- Cancer Signaling and Microenvironment Program, Marvin and Concetta Greenberg Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Lewis Katz Temple School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Kaiming Ye
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Center of Biomanufacturing for Regenerative Medicine, Binghamton University, SUNY, Binghamton, NY, USA.
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4
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Zhou M, Ge X, Xu X, Sheng B, Wang H, Shi H, Liu S, Tan B, Xu K, Wang J. A hot and cold tumor‑related prognostic signature for stage II colorectal cancer. Oncol Lett 2024; 28:419. [PMID: 39006949 PMCID: PMC11240279 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2024.14552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Globally, colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most lethal and prevalent malignancies. Based on the presence of immune cell infiltration in the tumor microenvironment, CRC can be divided into immunologically 'hot' or 'cold' tumors, which in turn leads to the differential efficacy of immunotherapy. However, the immune characteristics of hot and cold CRC tumors remain largely elusive, prompting further investigation of their properties regarding the tumor microenvironment. In the present study, a predictive model was developed based on the differential expression of proteins between cold and hot CRC tumors. First, the differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were identified using digital spatial profiling and mass spectrometry-based proteomics analysis, and the pathway features of the DEPs were analyzed using functional enrichment analysis. A novel eight-gene signature prognostic risk model was developed (IDO1, MAT1A, NPEPL1, NT5C, PTGR2, RPL29, TMEM126A and TUBB4B), which was validated using data obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas. The results revealed that the risk score of the eight-gene signature acted as an independent prognostic indicator in patients with stage II CRC (T3-4N0M0). It was also found that a high-risk score in the eight-gene signature was associated with high immune cell infiltration in patients with CRC. Taken together, these findings revealed some of the differential immune characteristics of hot and cold CRC tumors, and an eight-gene signature prognostic risk model was developed, which may serve as an independent prognostic indicator for patients with stage II CRC (T3-4N0M0).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Zhou
- Department of Colorectal Surgery and Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310000, P.R. China
- Center for Medical Research and Innovation in Digestive System Tumors, Ministry of Education, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310000, P.R. China
- Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310000, P.R. China
- Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310000, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoxu Ge
- Department of Colorectal Surgery and Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310000, P.R. China
- Center for Medical Research and Innovation in Digestive System Tumors, Ministry of Education, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310000, P.R. China
- Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310000, P.R. China
- Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310000, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoming Xu
- Department of Pathology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310000, P.R. China
| | - Biao Sheng
- Department of Colorectal Surgery and Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310000, P.R. China
- Center for Medical Research and Innovation in Digestive System Tumors, Ministry of Education, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310000, P.R. China
- Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310000, P.R. China
- Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310000, P.R. China
| | - Hao Wang
- Department of Colorectal Surgery and Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310000, P.R. China
- Center for Medical Research and Innovation in Digestive System Tumors, Ministry of Education, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310000, P.R. China
- Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310000, P.R. China
- Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310000, P.R. China
| | - Haoyu Shi
- Department of Colorectal Surgery and Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310000, P.R. China
- Center for Medical Research and Innovation in Digestive System Tumors, Ministry of Education, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310000, P.R. China
- Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310000, P.R. China
- Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310000, P.R. China
| | - Sikun Liu
- Department of Colorectal Surgery and Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310000, P.R. China
- Center for Medical Research and Innovation in Digestive System Tumors, Ministry of Education, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310000, P.R. China
- Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310000, P.R. China
- Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310000, P.R. China
| | - Boren Tan
- Department of Colorectal Surgery and Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310000, P.R. China
- Center for Medical Research and Innovation in Digestive System Tumors, Ministry of Education, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310000, P.R. China
- Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310000, P.R. China
- Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310000, P.R. China
| | - Kailun Xu
- Department of Breast Surgery and Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310000, P.R. China
| | - Jian Wang
- Department of Colorectal Surgery and Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310000, P.R. China
- Center for Medical Research and Innovation in Digestive System Tumors, Ministry of Education, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310000, P.R. China
- Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310000, P.R. China
- Cancer Center of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310000, P.R. China
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Liu J, He C, Tan W, Zheng JH. Path to bacteriotherapy: From bacterial engineering to therapeutic perspectives. Life Sci 2024; 352:122897. [PMID: 38971366 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122897] [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: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 06/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
The major reason for the failure of conventional therapies is the heterogeneity and complexity of tumor microenvironments (TMEs). Many malignant tumors reprogram their surface antigens to evade the immune surveillance, leading to reduced antigen-presenting cells and hindered T-cell activation. Bacteria-mediated cancer immunotherapy has been extensively investigated in recent years. Scientists have ingeniously modified bacteria using synthetic biology and nanotechnology to enhance their biosafety with high tumor specificity, resulting in robust anticancer immune responses. To enhance the antitumor efficacy, therapeutic proteins, cytokines, nanoparticles, and chemotherapeutic drugs have been efficiently delivered using engineered bacteria. This review provides a comprehensive understanding of oncolytic bacterial therapies, covering bacterial design and the intricate interactions within TMEs. Additionally, it offers an in-depth comparison of the current techniques used for bacterial modification, both internally and externally, to maximize their therapeutic effectiveness. Finally, we outlined the challenges and opportunities ahead in the clinical application of oncolytic bacterial therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinling Liu
- The Affiliated Xiangtan Central Hospital of Hunan University, School of Biomedical Sciences, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China; College of Biology, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
| | - Chongsheng He
- College of Biology, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
| | - Wenzhi Tan
- School of Food Science and Bioengineering, Changsha University of Science & Technology, Changsha, Hunan 410114, China.
| | - Jin Hai Zheng
- The Affiliated Xiangtan Central Hospital of Hunan University, School of Biomedical Sciences, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China.
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Logotheti S, Pavlopoulou A, Rudsari HK, Galow AM, Kafalı Y, Kyrodimos E, Giotakis AI, Marquardt S, Velalopoulou A, Verginadis II, Koumenis C, Stiewe T, Zoidakis J, Balasingham I, David R, Georgakilas AG. Intercellular pathways of cancer treatment-related cardiotoxicity and their therapeutic implications: the paradigm of radiotherapy. Pharmacol Ther 2024; 260:108670. [PMID: 38823489 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2024.108670] [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: 11/11/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
Advances in cancer therapeutics have improved patient survival rates. However, cancer survivors may suffer from adverse events either at the time of therapy or later in life. Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) represent a clinically important, but mechanistically understudied complication, which interfere with the continuation of best-possible care, induce life-threatening risks, and/or lead to long-term morbidity. These concerns are exacerbated by the fact that targeted therapies and immunotherapies are frequently combined with radiotherapy, which induces durable inflammatory and immunogenic responses, thereby providing a fertile ground for the development of CVDs. Stressed and dying irradiated cells produce 'danger' signals including, but not limited to, major histocompatibility complexes, cell-adhesion molecules, proinflammatory cytokines, and damage-associated molecular patterns. These factors activate intercellular signaling pathways which have potentially detrimental effects on the heart tissue homeostasis. Herein, we present the clinical crosstalk between cancer and heart diseases, describe how it is potentiated by cancer therapies, and highlight the multifactorial nature of the underlying mechanisms. We particularly focus on radiotherapy, as a case known to often induce cardiovascular complications even decades after treatment. We provide evidence that the secretome of irradiated tumors entails factors that exert systemic, remote effects on the cardiac tissue, potentially predisposing it to CVDs. We suggest how diverse disciplines can utilize pertinent state-of-the-art methods in feasible experimental workflows, to shed light on the molecular mechanisms of radiotherapy-related cardiotoxicity at the organismal level and untangle the desirable immunogenic properties of cancer therapies from their detrimental effects on heart tissue. Results of such highly collaborative efforts hold promise to be translated to next-generation regimens that maximize tumor control, minimize cardiovascular complications, and support quality of life in cancer survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stella Logotheti
- DNA Damage Laboratory, Physics Department, School of Applied Mathematical and Physical Sciences, National Technical University of Athens (NTUA), Zografou, 15780, Athens, Greece; Biomedical Physics in Radiation Oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Athanasia Pavlopoulou
- Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center, Izmir, Turkey; Izmir International Biomedicine and Genome Institute, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey
| | | | - Anne-Marie Galow
- Institute for Genome Biology, Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), 18196 Dummerstorf, Germany
| | - Yağmur Kafalı
- Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center, Izmir, Turkey; Izmir International Biomedicine and Genome Institute, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Efthymios Kyrodimos
- First Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Hippocrateion General Hospital Athens, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Aris I Giotakis
- First Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Hippocrateion General Hospital Athens, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Stephan Marquardt
- Institute of Translational Medicine for Health Care Systems, Medical School Berlin, Hochschule Für Gesundheit Und Medizin, 14197 Berlin, Germany
| | - Anastasia Velalopoulou
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Ioannis I Verginadis
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Constantinos Koumenis
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Thorsten Stiewe
- Institute of Molecular Oncology, Philipps-University, 35043 Marburg, Germany; German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center (UGMLC), 35043 Marburg, Germany; Genomics Core Facility, Philipps-University, 35043 Marburg, Germany; Institute for Lung Health (ILH), Justus Liebig University, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - Jerome Zoidakis
- Department of Biotechnology, Biomedical Research Foundation, Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece; Department of Biology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Robert David
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Rostock University Medical Center, 18057 Rostock, Germany; Department of Life, Light & Matter, Interdisciplinary Faculty, Rostock University, 18059 Rostock, Germany
| | - Alexandros G Georgakilas
- DNA Damage Laboratory, Physics Department, School of Applied Mathematical and Physical Sciences, National Technical University of Athens (NTUA), Zografou, 15780, Athens, Greece.
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Wang D, Zhang J, Wang J, Cai Z, Jin S, Chen G. Identification of collagen subtypes of gastric cancer for distinguishing patient prognosis and therapeutic response. CANCER INNOVATION 2024; 3:e125. [PMID: 38948250 PMCID: PMC11212290 DOI: 10.1002/cai2.125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
Background Gastric cancer is a highly heterogeneous disease, presenting a major obstacle to personalized treatment. Effective markers of the immune checkpoint blockade response are needed for precise patient classification. We, therefore, divided patients with gastric cancer according to collagen gene expression to indicate their prognosis and treatment response. Methods We collected data for 1250 patients with gastric cancer from four cohorts. For the TCGA-STAD cohort, we used consensus clustering to stratify patients based on expression levels of 44 collagen genes and compared the prognosis and clinical characteristics between collagen subtypes. We then identified distinct transcriptomic and genetic alteration signatures for the subtypes. We analyzed the associations of collagen subtypes with the responses to chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy. We also established a platform-independent collagen-subtype predictor. We verified the findings in three validation cohorts (GSE84433, GSE62254, and GSE15459) and compared the collagen subtyping method with other molecular subtyping methods. Results We identified two subtypes of gastric adenocarcinoma: a high-expression collagen subtype (CS-H) and a low-expression collagen subtype (CS-L). Collagen subtype was an independent prognostic factor, with better overall survival in the CS-L subgroup. The inflammatory response, angiogenesis, and phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathways were transcriptionally active in the CS-H subtype, while DNA repair activity was significantly greater in the CS-L subtype. PIK3CA was frequently amplified in the CS-H subtype, while PIK3C2A, PIK3C2G, and PIK3R1 were frequently deleted in the CS-L subtype. CS-H subtype tumors were more sensitive to fluorouracil, while CS-L subtype tumors were more sensitive to immune checkpoint blockade. CS-L subtype was predicted to be more sensitive to HER2-targeted drugs, and CS-H subtype was predicted to be more sensitive to vascular endothelial growth factor and PI3K pathway-targeting drugs. Collagen subtyping also has the potential to be combined with existing molecular subtyping methods for better patient classification. Conclusions We classified gastric cancers into two subtypes based on collagen gene expression and validated these subtypes in three validation cohorts. The collagen subgroups differed in terms of prognosis, clinical characteristics, transcriptome, and genetic alterations. The subtypes were closely related to patient responses to chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Wang
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Clinical Oncology School of Fujian Medical UniversityFujian Cancer HospitalFuzhouChina
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Clinical Oncology School of Fujian Medical UniversityFujian Cancer HospitalFuzhouChina
| | - Jianchao Wang
- Department of Pathology, Clinical Oncology School of Fujian Medical UniversityFujian Cancer HospitalFuzhouChina
| | - Zhonglin Cai
- Department of UrologyGongli Hospital of Shanghai Pudong New AreaShanghaiChina
| | - Shanfeng Jin
- Department of Molecular Pathology, Clinical Oncology School of Fujian Medical UniversityFujian Cancer HospitalFuzhouChina
| | - Gang Chen
- Department of Pathology, Clinical Oncology School of Fujian Medical UniversityFujian Cancer HospitalFuzhouChina
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8
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Polak R, Zhang ET, Kuo CJ. Cancer organoids 2.0: modelling the complexity of the tumour immune microenvironment. Nat Rev Cancer 2024; 24:523-539. [PMID: 38977835 DOI: 10.1038/s41568-024-00706-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
The development of neoplasia involves a complex and continuous interplay between malignantly transformed cells and the tumour microenvironment (TME). Cancer immunotherapies targeting the immune TME have been increasingly validated in clinical trials but response rates vary substantially between tumour histologies and are often transient, idiosyncratic and confounded by resistance. Faithful experimental models of the patient-specific tumour immune microenvironment, capable of recapitulating tumour biology and immunotherapy effects, would greatly improve patient selection, target identification and definition of resistance mechanisms for immuno-oncology therapeutics. In this Review, we discuss currently available and rapidly evolving 3D tumour organoid models that capture important immune features of the TME. We highlight diverse opportunities for organoid-based investigations of tumour immunity, drug development and precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roel Polak
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Elisa T Zhang
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Calvin J Kuo
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
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9
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Younesi FS, Miller AE, Barker TH, Rossi FMV, Hinz B. Fibroblast and myofibroblast activation in normal tissue repair and fibrosis. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2024; 25:617-638. [PMID: 38589640 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-024-00716-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
The term 'fibroblast' often serves as a catch-all for a diverse array of mesenchymal cells, including perivascular cells, stromal progenitor cells and bona fide fibroblasts. Although phenotypically similar, these subpopulations are functionally distinct, maintaining tissue integrity and serving as local progenitor reservoirs. In response to tissue injury, these cells undergo a dynamic fibroblast-myofibroblast transition, marked by extracellular matrix secretion and contraction of actomyosin-based stress fibres. Importantly, whereas transient activation into myofibroblasts aids in tissue repair, persistent activation triggers pathological fibrosis. In this Review, we discuss the roles of mechanical cues, such as tissue stiffness and strain, alongside cell signalling pathways and extracellular matrix ligands in modulating myofibroblast activation and survival. We also highlight the role of epigenetic modifications and myofibroblast memory in physiological and pathological processes. Finally, we discuss potential strategies for therapeutically interfering with these factors and the associated signal transduction pathways to improve the outcome of dysregulated healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fereshteh Sadat Younesi
- Keenan Research Institute for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrew E Miller
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Thomas H Barker
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Fabio M V Rossi
- School of Biomedical Engineering and Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Boris Hinz
- Keenan Research Institute for Biomedical Science of the St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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10
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Magalhães MV, Débera N, Pereira RF, Neves MI, Barrias CC, Bidarra SJ. In situ crosslinkable multi-functional and cell-responsive alginate 3D matrix via thiol-maleimide click chemistry. Carbohydr Polym 2024; 337:122144. [PMID: 38710569 DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2024.122144] [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: 02/09/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
In vivo, cells interact with the extracellular matrix (ECM), which provides a multitude of biophysical and biochemical signals that modulate cellular behavior. Inspired by this, we explored a new methodology to develop a more physiomimetic polysaccharide-based matrix for 3D cell culture. Maleimide-modified alginate (AlgM) derivatives were successfully synthesized using DMTMM to activate carboxylic groups. Thiol-terminated cell-adhesion peptides were tethered to the hydrogel network to promote integrin binding. Rapid and efficient in situ hydrogel formation was promoted by thiol-Michael addition "click" chemistry via maleimide reaction with thiol-flanked protease-sensitive peptides. Alginate derivatives were further ionically crosslinked by divalent ions present in the medium, which led to greater stability and allowed longer cell culture periods. By tailoring alginate's biofunctionality we improved cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions, providing an ECM-like 3D microenvironment. We were able to systematically and independently vary biochemical and biophysical parameters to elicit specific cell responses, creating custom-made 3D matrices. DMTMM-mediated maleimide incorporation is a promising approach to synthesizing AlgM derivatives that can be leveraged to produce ECM-like matrices for a broad range of applications, from in vitro tissue modeling to tissue regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- M V Magalhães
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; FEUP - Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto, Rua Dr. Roberto Frias, s/n, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal.
| | - N Débera
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal.
| | - R F Pereira
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; ICBAS - Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
| | - M I Neves
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal.
| | - C C Barrias
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; ICBAS - Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
| | - S J Bidarra
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; INEB - Instituto de Engenharia Biomédica, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal.
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11
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Gui Z, Ye Y, Li Y, Ren Z, Wei N, Liu L, Wang H, Zhang M. Construction of a novel cancer-associated fibroblast-related signature to predict clinical outcome and immune response in cervical cancer. Transl Oncol 2024; 46:102001. [PMID: 38850798 PMCID: PMC11214323 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2024.102001] [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: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024] Open
Abstract
This study developed a prognostic signature for cervical cancer using transcriptome profiling and clinical data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), and TISCH database, focusing on cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). Through LASSO Cox regression and integrated bioinformatics analyses, we identified 144 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) related to CAFs, from which an 11-gene CAF-related signature (CAFRSig) was constructed. The CAFRSig effectively stratified patients into high- and low-risk categories, demonstrating significant prognostic capability in predicting overall survival. Gene ontology (GO) and gene set variation analysis (GSVA) linked the DEGs to crucial pathways in tumor malignancy, immune response, and fatty acid metabolism. The immune landscape analysis, utilizing the TIMER platform and CIBERSORT algorithm, revealed a positive correlation between immune cell effector functions and CAFRSig scores, highlighting the model's potential to identify patients likely to respond to immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapies. Furthermore, neuropilin 1 (NRP1), a key gene in the CAFRSig, was upregulated in cervical cancer tissues and associated with disease progression and differentiation. The downregulation of NRP1 curbed cell proliferation and influenced the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), implicating the PI3K/AKT pathway and modulating PD-L1 expression. This comprehensive analysis establishes a robust prognostic signature based on CAF-related genes, offering valuable insights for optimizing therapeutic strategies in cervical cancer management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongxuan Gui
- Oncology Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, PR China
| | - Yingquan Ye
- Oncology Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, PR China
| | - Yu Li
- Institute for Liver Diseases of Anhui Medical University, School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, PR China
| | - Zhengting Ren
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, PR China
| | - Nan Wei
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Anhui Second People's Hospital, Hefei, Anhui, PR China; Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, PR China
| | - Li Liu
- Oncology Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, PR China
| | - Hua Wang
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, PR China.
| | - Mei Zhang
- Oncology Department of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, PR China; The Traditional and Western Medicine (TCM)-Integrated Cancer Center of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, PR China; Graduate School of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China.
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12
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Tang J, Chen Y, Wang C, Xia Y, Yu T, Tang M, Meng K, Yin L, Yang Y, Shen L, Xing H, Mao X. The role of mesenchymal stem cells in cancer and prospects for their use in cancer therapeutics. MedComm (Beijing) 2024; 5:e663. [PMID: 39070181 PMCID: PMC11283587 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2024] [Revised: 06/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are recruited by malignant tumor cells to the tumor microenvironment (TME) and play a crucial role in the initiation and progression of malignant tumors. This role encompasses immune evasion, promotion of angiogenesis, stimulation of cancer cell proliferation, correlation with cancer stem cells, multilineage differentiation within the TME, and development of treatment resistance. Simultaneously, extensive research is exploring the homing effect of MSCs and MSC-derived extracellular vesicles (MSCs-EVs) in tumors, aiming to design them as carriers for antitumor substances. These substances are targeted to deliver antitumor drugs to enhance drug efficacy while reducing drug toxicity. This paper provides a review of the supportive role of MSCs in tumor progression and the associated molecular mechanisms. Additionally, we summarize the latest therapeutic strategies involving engineered MSCs and MSCs-EVs in cancer treatment, including their utilization as carriers for gene therapeutic agents, chemotherapeutics, and oncolytic viruses. We also discuss the distribution and clearance of MSCs and MSCs-EVs upon entry into the body to elucidate the potential of targeted therapies based on MSCs and MSCs-EVs in cancer treatment, along with the challenges they face.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Tang
- Central LaboratoryXiangyang Central HospitalAffiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and ScienceXiangyangChina
| | - Yu Chen
- Central LaboratoryXiangyang Central HospitalAffiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and ScienceXiangyangChina
- Medical Affairs, Xiangyang Central HospitalAffiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and ScienceXiangyangChina
| | - Chunhua Wang
- Department of Clinical LaboratoryXiangyang No. 1 People's HospitalHubei University of MedicineXiangyangHubei ProvinceChina
| | - Ying Xia
- Central LaboratoryXiangyang Central HospitalAffiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and ScienceXiangyangChina
| | - Tingyu Yu
- Central LaboratoryXiangyang Central HospitalAffiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and ScienceXiangyangChina
| | - Mengjun Tang
- Central LaboratoryXiangyang Central HospitalAffiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and ScienceXiangyangChina
| | - Kun Meng
- Central LaboratoryXiangyang Central HospitalAffiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and ScienceXiangyangChina
| | - Lijuan Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and SafetyKey Laboratory of Industrial MicrobiologyMinistry of EducationTianjin Key Laboratory of Industry MicrobiologyNational and Local United Engineering Lab of Metabolic Control Fermentation TechnologyChina International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Food Nutrition/Safety and Medicinal ChemistryCollege of BiotechnologyTianjin University of Science & TechnologyTianjinChina
| | - Yang Yang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Pathogen and ImmunityNational Clinical Research Center for Infectious DiseaseState Key Discipline of Infectious DiseaseShenzhen Third People's HospitalSecond Hospital Affiliated to Southern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhenChina
| | - Liang Shen
- Central LaboratoryXiangyang Central HospitalAffiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and ScienceXiangyangChina
| | - Hui Xing
- Central LaboratoryXiangyang Central HospitalAffiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and ScienceXiangyangChina
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyXiangyang Central HospitalAffiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and SciencesXiangyangChina
| | - Xiaogang Mao
- Central LaboratoryXiangyang Central HospitalAffiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and ScienceXiangyangChina
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyXiangyang Central HospitalAffiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and SciencesXiangyangChina
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13
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Son DO, Benitez R, Diao L, Hinz B. How to Keep Myofibroblasts under Control: Culture of Mouse Skin Fibroblasts on Soft Substrates. J Invest Dermatol 2024:S0022-202X(24)01885-2. [PMID: 39078357 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2024.05.033] [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: 02/12/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024]
Abstract
During the physiological healing of skin wounds, fibroblasts recruited from the uninjured adjacent dermis and deeper subcutaneous fascia layers are transiently activated into myofibroblasts to first secrete and then contract collagen-rich extracellular matrix into a mechanically resistant scar. Scar tissue restores skin integrity after damage but comes at the expense of poor esthetics and loss of tissue function. Stiff scar matrix also mechanically activates various precursor cells into myofibroblasts in a positive feedback loop. Persistent myofibroblast activation results in pathologic accumulation of fibrous collagen and hypertrophic scarring, called fibrosis. Consequently, the mechanisms of fibroblast-to-myofibroblast activation and persistence are studied to develop antifibrotic and prohealing treatments. Mechanistic understanding often starts in a plastic cell culture dish. This can be problematic because contact of fibroblasts with tissue culture plastic or glass surfaces invariably generates myofibroblast phenotypes in standard culture. We describe a straight-forward method to produce soft cell culture surfaces for fibroblast isolation and continued culture and highlight key advantages and limitations of the approach. Adding a layer of elastic silicone polymer tunable to the softness of normal skin and the stiffness of pathologic scars allows to control mechanical fibroblast activation while preserving the simplicity of conventional 2-dimensional cell culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Ok Son
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, St. Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Raquel Benitez
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, St. Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Li Diao
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, St. Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Boris Hinz
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, St. Michael's Hospital, Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
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14
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Agorku DJ, Bosio A, Alves F, Ströbel P, Hardt O. Colorectal cancer-associated fibroblasts inhibit effector T cells via NECTIN2 signaling. Cancer Lett 2024; 595:216985. [PMID: 38821255 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216985] [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: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024]
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts play a crucial role within the tumor microenvironment. However, a comprehensive characterization of CAF in colorectal cancer (CRC) is still missing. We combined scRNA-seq and spatial proteomics to decipher fibroblast heterogeneity in healthy human colon and CRC at high resolution. Analyzing nearly 23,000 fibroblasts, we identified 11 distinct clusters and verified them by spatial proteomics. Four clusters, consisting of myofibroblastic CAF (myCAF)-like, inflammatory CAF (iCAF)-like and proliferating fibroblasts as well as a novel cluster, which we named "T cell-inhibiting CAF" (TinCAF), were primarily found in CRC. This new cluster was characterized by the expression of immune-interacting receptors and ligands, including CD40 and NECTIN2. Co-culture of CAF and T cells resulted in a reduction of the effector T cell compartment, impaired proliferation, and increased exhaustion. By blocking its receptor interaction, we demonstrated that NECTIN2 was the key driver of T cell inhibition. Analysis of clinical datasets showed that NECTIN2 expression is a poor prognostic factor in CRC and other tumors. In conclusion, we identified a new class of immuno-suppressive CAF with features rendering them a potential target for future immunotherapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Agorku
- Miltenyi Biotec B.V. & Co. KG, Bergisch Gladbach, Germany; University Medical Center Göttingen (UMG), Institute of Pathology, Göttingen, Lower Saxony, Germany
| | - Andreas Bosio
- Miltenyi Biotec B.V. & Co. KG, Bergisch Gladbach, Germany
| | - Frauke Alves
- University Medical Center Göttingen, Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Göttingen, Lower Saxony, Germany; University Medical Center Göttingen, Institute for Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Göttingen, Lower Saxony, Germany; Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary Sciences, Translational Molecular Imaging, Göttingen, Lower Saxony, Germany
| | - Philipp Ströbel
- University Medical Center Göttingen (UMG), Institute of Pathology, Göttingen, Lower Saxony, Germany
| | - Olaf Hardt
- Miltenyi Biotec B.V. & Co. KG, Bergisch Gladbach, Germany.
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15
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Wang X, Zhao H, Luo X, Chen Y, Shi C, Wang Y, Bai J, Shao Z, Shang Z. NNMT switches the proangiogenic phenotype of cancer-associated fibroblasts via epigenetically regulating ETS2/VEGFA axis. Oncogene 2024:10.1038/s41388-024-03112-2. [PMID: 39069579 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-024-03112-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2024] [Revised: 07/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are known to promote angiogenesis in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). However, the epigenetic mechanisms through which CAFs facilitate angiogenesis within the tumor microenvironment are still poorly characterized. Nicotinamide N'-methyltransferase (NNMT), a member of the N-methyltransferase family, was found to be a key molecule in the activation of CAFs. This study shows that NNMT in fibroblasts contributes to angiogenesis and tumor growth through an epigenetic reprogramming-ETS2-VEGFA signaling axis in OSCC. Single-cell RNA Sequencing (scRNA-seq) analysis suggests that NNMT is mainly highly expressed in fibroblasts of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Moreover, analysis of the TCGA database and multiple immunohistochemical staining of clinical samples also identified a positive correlation between NNMT and tumor angiogenesis. This research further employed an assembled organoid model and a fibroblast-endothelial cell co-culture model to authenticate the proangiogenic ability of NNMT. At the molecular level, high expression of NNMT in CAFs was found to promote ETS2 expression by regulating H3K27 methylation level through mediating methylation deposition. Furthermore, ETS2 was verified to be an activating transcription factor of VEGFA in this study. Collectively, our findings delineate an epigenetic molecular regulatory network of angiogenesis and provide a theoretical basis for exploring new targets and clinical strategy in OSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinmiao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Hui Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, School of Stomatology-Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xinyue Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yang Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Congyu Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yifan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Junqiang Bai
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhe Shao
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, School of Stomatology-Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
- Day Surgery Center, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
| | - Zhengjun Shang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral & Maxillofacial Reconstruction and Regeneration, Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Laboratory of Stomatology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Oncology, School of Stomatology-Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
- Taikang Center for Life and Medical Sciences of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
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16
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Chu X, Tian Y, Lv C. Decoding the spatiotemporal heterogeneity of tumor-associated macrophages. Mol Cancer 2024; 23:150. [PMID: 39068459 PMCID: PMC11282869 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-024-02064-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are pivotal in cancer progression, influencing tumor growth, angiogenesis, and immune evasion. This review explores the spatial and temporal heterogeneity of TAMs within the tumor microenvironment (TME), highlighting their diverse subtypes, origins, and functions. Advanced technologies such as single-cell sequencing and spatial multi-omics have elucidated the intricate interactions between TAMs and other TME components, revealing the mechanisms behind their recruitment, polarization, and distribution. Key findings demonstrate that TAMs support tumor vascularization, promote epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and modulate extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, etc., thereby enhancing tumor invasiveness and metastasis. Understanding these complex dynamics offers new therapeutic targets for disrupting TAM-mediated pathways and overcoming drug resistance. This review underscores the potential of targeting TAMs to develop innovative cancer therapies, emphasizing the need for further research into their spatial characteristics and functional roles within the TME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyuan Chu
- Department of General Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110004, P. R. China
| | - Yu Tian
- Department of General Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110004, P. R. China.
| | - Chao Lv
- Department of General Surgery, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110004, P. R. China.
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17
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Xu Y, Ren Z, Zeng F, Yang H, Hu C. Cancer-associated fibroblast-derived WNT5A promotes cell proliferation, metastasis, stemness and glycolysis in gastric cancer via regulating HK2. World J Surg Oncol 2024; 22:193. [PMID: 39054546 PMCID: PMC11270928 DOI: 10.1186/s12957-024-03482-7] [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: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most common cancers worldwide. Tumor microenvironment plays an important role in tumor progression. This study aims to explore the role of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in GC and the underlying mechanism. METHODS Cell viability, proliferation, invasion and migration were assessed by MTT, EdU, transwell and wound healing assays, respectively. Sphere formation assay was used to evaluate cell stemness. Glucose consumption, lactate production and ATP consumption were measured to assess glycolysis. In addition, The RNA and protein expression were detected by qRT-PCR and western blot. The interaction between wingless Type MMTV Integration Site Family, Member 5 A (WNT5A) and hexokinase 2 (HK2) was verified by Co-immunoprecipitation. The xenograft model was established to explore the function of CAFs on GC tumor growth in vivo. RESULTS CAFs promoted the proliferation, metastasis, stemness and glycolysis of GC cells. WNT5A was upregulated in CAFs, and CAFs enhanced WNT5A expression in GC cells. Knockdown of WNT5A in either GC cells or CAFs repressed the progression of GC cells. In addition, WNT5A promoted HK2 expression, and overexpression of HK2 reversed the effect of WNT5A knockdown in CAFs on GC cells. Besides, knockdown of WNT5A in CAFs inhibits tumor growth in vivo. CONCLUSION CAF-derived WNT5A facilitates the progression of GC via regulating HK2 expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongsu Xu
- Nursing Department, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Zhengju Ren
- School of Nursing, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Fang Zeng
- Hemodialysis Room, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Huan Yang
- Public Welfare Services Division, The Affiliated Dazu's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 1073, South Second Ring Road, Hongxing Community, Tangxiang Street, Dazu District, Chongqing, 402360, China.
| | - Chengju Hu
- Health Management Center, The Affiliated Dazu's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 1073, South Second Ring Road, Hongxing Community, Tangxiang Street, Dazu District, Chongqing, 402360, China.
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18
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Gao J, Wang Z, Lin S, Tian Y, Wu H, Li Z, Liu F. CCR7/DUSP1 signaling Axis mediates iCAF to regulates head and neck squamous cell carcinoma growth. Cell Signal 2024:111305. [PMID: 39067836 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2024.111305] [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: 04/21/2024] [Revised: 07/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE C-C motif chemokine receptor 7 (CCR7) significantly influences tumors onset and progression, yet its impact on the tumor microenvironment (TME) and specific mechanisms remain elusive. Inflammatory Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts (iCAF), a vital subtype of Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts (CAF), play a critical role in regulating the TME and tumor growth, though the underlying molecular mechanisms are not fully understood. This study aims to determine whether CCR7 participates in tumor regulation by iCAF and to elucidate the specific mechanisms involved. METHODS Differential gene analysis of CAF subtypes in CCR7 knockout and wild-type groups was conducted using single-cell data. Animal models facilitated the extraction of primary iCAF cells via flow cytometry sorting. Changes in DUSP1 expression and the efficiency of lentivirus-mediated knockdown and overexpression were examined through qPCR and Western Blot. MOC1 and MOC2 cells were co-cultured with iCAF, with subsequent validation of changes in tumor cell proliferation, migration, and invasion using CCK8, EdU, and wound healing assays. ELISA was employed to detect changes in TGF-β1 concentration in the iCAF supernatant. RESULTS CAF was categorized into three subtypes-myCAF, iCAF, and apCAF-based on single-cell data. Analysis revealed a significant increase in DUSP1 expression in iCAF from the CCR7 knockout group, confirmed by in vitro experiments. Co-culturing MOC1 and MOC2 cells with iCAF exhibiting lentivirus-mediated DUSP1 knockdown resulted in inhibited tumor cell proliferation, invasion, and migration. In contrast, co-culture with iCAF overexpressing DUSP1 enhanced these capabilities. Additionally, the TGF-β1 concentration in the supernatant increased in the DUSP1 knockdown iCAF group, whereas it decreased in the DUSP1 overexpression group. CONCLUSION The CCR7/DUSP1 signaling axis regulates tumor growth by modulating TGF-β1 secretion in iCAF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaxing Gao
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Surgery, School and Hospital of Stomatology, China Medical University, Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110000, People's Republic of China; Shigezhuang Community Health Service Center in Changping District, Beijing.
| | - Zengxu Wang
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Surgery, School and Hospital of Stomatology, China Medical University, Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110000, People's Republic of China.
| | - Shanfeng Lin
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Surgery, School and Hospital of Stomatology, China Medical University, Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110000, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yuan Tian
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Surgery, School and Hospital of Stomatology, China Medical University, Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110000, People's Republic of China.
| | - Haoxuan Wu
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Surgery, School and Hospital of Stomatology, China Medical University, Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110000, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhenning Li
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Surgery, School and Hospital of Stomatology, China Medical University, Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110000, People's Republic of China.
| | - Fayu Liu
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial-Head and Neck Surgery, School and Hospital of Stomatology, China Medical University, Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110000, People's Republic of China.
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19
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Spiga M, Martini E, Maffia MC, Ciceri F, Ruggiero E, Potenza A, Bonini C. Harnessing the tumor microenvironment to boost adoptive T cell therapy with engineered lymphocytes for solid tumors. Semin Immunopathol 2024; 46:8. [PMID: 39060547 DOI: 10.1007/s00281-024-01011-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
Adoptive cell therapy (ACT) using Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR) and T Cell Receptor (TCR) engineered T cells represents an innovative therapeutic approach for the treatment of hematological malignancies, yet its application for solid tumors is still suboptimal. The tumor microenvironment (TME) places several challenges to overcome for a satisfactory therapeutic effect, such as physical barriers (fibrotic capsule and stroma), and inhibitory signals impeding T cell function. Some of these obstacles can be faced by combining ACT with other anti-tumor approaches, such as chemo/radiotherapy and checkpoint inhibitors. On the other hand, cutting edge technological tools offer the opportunity to overcome and, in some cases, take advantage of TME intrinsic characteristics to boost ACT efficacy. These include: the exploitation of chemokine gradients and integrin expression for preferential T-cell homing and extravasation; metabolic changes that have direct or indirect effects on TCR-T and CAR-T cells by increasing antigen presentation and reshaping T cell phenotype; introduction of additional synthetic receptors on TCR-T and CAR-T cells with the aim of increasing T cells survival and fitness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Spiga
- Experimental Hematology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Elisa Martini
- Experimental Hematology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Chiara Maffia
- Experimental Hematology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Fabio Ciceri
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
- Hematology and Bone Marrow Transplant Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Eliana Ruggiero
- Experimental Hematology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessia Potenza
- Experimental Hematology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy.
| | - Chiara Bonini
- Experimental Hematology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy.
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy.
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20
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Chen J, Larsson L, Swarbrick A, Lundeberg J. Spatial landscapes of cancers: insights and opportunities. Nat Rev Clin Oncol 2024:10.1038/s41571-024-00926-7. [PMID: 39043872 DOI: 10.1038/s41571-024-00926-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024]
Abstract
Solid tumours comprise many different cell types organized in spatially structured arrangements, with substantial intratumour and intertumour heterogeneity. Advances in spatial profiling technologies over the past decade hold promise to capture the complexity of these cellular architectures to build a holistic view of the intricate molecular mechanisms that shape the tumour ecosystem. Some of these mechanisms act at the cellular scale and are controlled by cell-autonomous programmes or communication between nearby cells, whereas other mechanisms result from coordinated efforts between large networks of cells and extracellular molecules organized into tissues and organs. In this Review we provide insights into the application of single-cell and spatial profiling tools, with a focus on spatially resolved transcriptomic tools developed to understand the cellular architecture of the tumour microenvironment and identify opportunities to use them to improve clinical management of cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Chen
- Cancer Ecosystems Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Medical Oncology, St George Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ludvig Larsson
- Department of Gene Technology, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Science for Life Laboratory, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Alexander Swarbrick
- Cancer Ecosystems Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
| | - Joakim Lundeberg
- Department of Gene Technology, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Science for Life Laboratory, Stockholm, Sweden.
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21
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Liu T, Yao W, Sun W, Yuan Y, Liu C, Liu X, Wang X, Jiang H. Components, Formulations, Deliveries, and Combinations of Tumor Vaccines. ACS NANO 2024; 18:18801-18833. [PMID: 38979917 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.4c05065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
Tumor vaccines, an important part of immunotherapy, prevent cancer or kill existing tumor cells by activating or restoring the body's own immune system. Currently, various formulations of tumor vaccines have been developed, including cell vaccines, tumor cell membrane vaccines, tumor DNA vaccines, tumor mRNA vaccines, tumor polypeptide vaccines, virus-vectored tumor vaccines, and tumor-in-situ vaccines. There are also multiple delivery systems for tumor vaccines, such as liposomes, cell membrane vesicles, viruses, exosomes, and emulsions. In addition, to decrease the risk of tumor immune escape and immune tolerance that may exist with a single tumor vaccine, combination therapy of tumor vaccines with radiotherapy, chemotherapy, immune checkpoint inhibitors, cytokines, CAR-T therapy, or photoimmunotherapy is an effective strategy. Given the critical role of tumor vaccines in immunotherapy, here, we look back to the history of tumor vaccines, and we discuss the antigens, adjuvants, formulations, delivery systems, mechanisms, combination therapy, and future directions of tumor vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tengfei Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical Engineering, Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Biomaterials and Devices, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210096, China
| | - Wenyan Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical Engineering, Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Biomaterials and Devices, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210096, China
| | - Wenyu Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical Engineering, Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Biomaterials and Devices, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210096, China
| | - Yihan Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical Engineering, Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Biomaterials and Devices, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210096, China
| | - Chen Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical Engineering, Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Biomaterials and Devices, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210096, China
| | - Xiaohui Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical Engineering, Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Biomaterials and Devices, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210096, China
| | - Xuemei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical Engineering, Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Biomaterials and Devices, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210096, China
| | - Hui Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical Engineering, Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Biomaterials and Devices, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210096, China
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22
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Li K, Wang R, Liu GW, Peng ZY, Wang JC, Xiao GD, Tang SC, Du N, Zhang J, Zhang J, Ren H, Sun X, Yang YP, Liu DP. Refining the optimal CAF cluster marker for predicting TME-dependent survival expectancy and treatment benefits in NSCLC patients. Sci Rep 2024; 14:16766. [PMID: 39034310 PMCID: PMC11271481 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-55375-0] [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: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) plays a pivotal role in the onset, progression, and treatment response of cancer. Among the various components of the TME, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are key regulators of both immune and non-immune cellular functions. Leveraging single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA) data, we have uncovered previously hidden and promising roles within this specific CAF subgroup, paving the way for its clinical application. However, several critical questions persist, primarily stemming from the heterogeneous nature of CAFs and the use of different fibroblast markers in various sample analyses, causing confusion and hindrance in their clinical implementation. In this groundbreaking study, we have systematically screened multiple databases to identify the most robust marker for distinguishing CAFs in lung cancer, with a particular focus on their potential use in early diagnosis, staging, and treatment response evaluation. Our investigation revealed that COL1A1, COL1A2, FAP, and PDGFRA are effective markers for characterizing CAF subgroups in most lung adenocarcinoma datasets. Through comprehensive analysis of treatment responses, we determined that COL1A1 stands out as the most effective indicator among all CAF markers. COL1A1 not only deciphers the TME signatures related to CAFs but also demonstrates a highly sensitive and specific correlation with treatment responses and multiple survival outcomes. For the first time, we have unveiled the distinct roles played by clusters of CAF markers in differentiating various TME groups. Our findings confirm the sensitive and unique contributions of CAFs to the responses of multiple lung cancer therapies. These insights significantly enhance our understanding of TME functions and drive the translational application of extensive scRNA sequence results. COL1A1 emerges as the most sensitive and specific marker for defining CAF subgroups in scRNA analysis. The CAF ratios represented by COL1A1 can potentially serve as a reliable predictor of treatment responses in clinical practice, thus providing valuable insights into the influential roles of TME components. This research marks a crucial step forward in revolutionizing our approach to cancer diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Li
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology‑Head and Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, China
| | - Rui Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery and Oncology, Cancer Centre, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277 Yanta West Road, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, China
| | - Guo-Wei Liu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Qinghai Provincial People's Hospital, Gonghe Road No. 2, Chengdong District, Xining, 810007, Qinghai, China
| | - Zi-Yang Peng
- School of Future Technology, National Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Precision Surgery and Regenerative Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, China
| | - Ji-Chang Wang
- Department of Vascular Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, China
| | - Guo-Dong Xiao
- Oncology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zheng Zhou, 450052, Henan, China
| | - Shou-Ching Tang
- Section of Hematology Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, LSUHSC Cancer Center, School of Medicine, 1700 Tulane Avenue, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA
| | - Ning Du
- Department of Thoracic Surgery and Oncology, Cancer Centre, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277 Yanta West Road, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jia Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery and Oncology, Cancer Centre, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277 Yanta West Road, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery and Oncology, Cancer Centre, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277 Yanta West Road, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, China
| | - Hong Ren
- Department of Thoracic Surgery and Oncology, Cancer Centre, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277 Yanta West Road, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xin Sun
- Department of Thoracic Surgery and Oncology, Cancer Centre, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277 Yanta West Road, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, China
- Department of Pathology, Anatomy and Cell Biology, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, 19107, USA
| | - Yi-Ping Yang
- Department of Radiotherapy, Shaanxi Provincial Tumor Hospital, 309 Yanta W Rd, Yanta District, Xi'an, 710063, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Da-Peng Liu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery and Oncology, Cancer Centre, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277 Yanta West Road, Xi'an, 710061, Shaanxi, China.
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23
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Eskandari-Malayeri F, Rezeai M, Narimani T, Esmaeil N, Azizi M. Investigating the effect of Fusobacterium nucleatum on the aggressive behavior of cancer-associated fibroblasts in colorectal cancer. Discov Oncol 2024; 15:292. [PMID: 39030445 PMCID: PMC11264641 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-024-01156-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Fusobacterium nucleatum, (F. nucleatum) as a known factor in inducing oncogenic, invasive, and inflammatory responses, can lead to an increase in the incidence and progression of colorectal cancer (CRC). Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) are also one of the key components of the tumor microenvironment (TME), which lead to resistance to treatment, metastasis, and disease recurrence with their markers, secretions, and functions. This study aimed to investigate the effect of F. nucleatum on the invasive phenotype and function of fibroblast cells isolated from normal and cancerous colorectal tissue. F. nucleatum bacteria were isolated from deep periodontal pockets and confirmed by various tests. CAF cells from tumor tissue and normal fibroblasts (NF) from a distance of 10 cm of tumor tissue were isolated from 5 patients by the explant method and were exposed to secretions and ghosts of F. nucleatum. The expression level of two markers, fibroblast activation protein (FAP), and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), and the amount of production of two cytokines TGF-β and IL-6 from fibroblast cells were measured by flow cytometry and ELISA test, respectively before and after exposure to different bacterial components. The expression of the FAP marker was significantly higher in CAF cells compared to NF cells (P < 0.05). Also, the expression of IL-6 in CAF cells was higher than that of NF cells. In investigating the effect of bacterial components on the function of fibroblastic cells, after comparing the amount of IL-6 produced between the normal tissue of each patient and his tumoral tissue under 4 treated conditions, it was found that the amount of IL-6 production from the CAF cells of patients in the control group, treated with heat-killed ghosts and treated with paraformaldehyde-fixed ghosts had a significant increase compared to NF cells (P < 0.05). Due to the significant increase in FAP marker expression in fibroblast cells of tumor tissue compared to normal tissue, it seems that FAP can be used as a very good therapeutic marker, especially in patients with high levels of CAF cells. Various components of F. nucleatum could affect fibroblast cells differentially and at least part of the effect of this bacterium in the TME is mediated by CAF cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marzieh Rezeai
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.
| | - Tahmineh Narimani
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Nafiseh Esmaeil
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mahdieh Azizi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
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24
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Wang Y, Ding W, Hao W, Gong L, Peng Y, Zhang J, Qian Z, Xu K, Cai W, Gao Y. CXCL3/TGF-β-mediated crosstalk between CAFs and tumor cells augments RCC progression and sunitinib resistance. iScience 2024; 27:110224. [PMID: 39040058 PMCID: PMC11261419 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.110224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play a significant role in tumor development and treatment failure, yet the precise mechanisms underlying their contribution to renal cell carcinoma (RCC) remains underexplored. This study explored the interaction between CAFs and tumor cells, and related mechanisms. CAFs isolated from tumor tissues promoted the tumor progression and drugs resistance both in vivo and in vitro. Mechanistically, chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand (CXCL) 3 secreted from CAFs mediated its effects. CXCL3 activated its receptor CXCR2 to active the downstream ERK1/2 signaling pathway, subsequently promoting epithelial-mesenchymal transition and cell stemness. Blocking the crosstalk between CAFs and tumor cells by CXCR2 inhibitor SB225002 attenuated the functions of CAFs. Furthermore, Renca cells facilitated the transformation of normal interstitial fibroblasts (NFs) into CAFs and the expression of CXCL3 through TGF-β-Smad2/3 signaling pathway. In turn, transformed NFs promoted the tumor progression and drug resistance of RCC. These findings may constitute potential therapeutic strategies for RCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunxia Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Weihong Ding
- Department of Urology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Wenjing Hao
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Luyao Gong
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Yeheng Peng
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Zhiyu Qian
- Department of Urology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Ke Xu
- Department of Urology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
| | - Weimin Cai
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Yuan Gao
- School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, China
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25
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Bharadwaj D, Mandal M. Tumor microenvironment: A playground for cells from multiple diverse origins. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2024; 1879:189158. [PMID: 39032537 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2024.189158] [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: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 07/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
Tumor microenvironment is formed by various cellular and non-cellular components which interact with one another and form a complex network of interactions. Some of these cellular components also attain a secretory phenotype and release growth factors, cytokines, chemokines etc. in the surroundings which are capable of inducing even greater number of signalling networks. All these interactions play a decisive role in determining the course of tumorigenesis. The treatment strategies against cancer also exert their impact on the local microenvironment. Such interactions and anticancer therapies have been found to induce more deleterious outcomes like immunosuppression and chemoresistance in the process of tumor progression. Hence, understanding the tumor microenvironment is crucial for dealing with cancer and chemoresistance. This review is an attempt to develop some understanding about the tumor microenvironment and different factors which modulate it, thereby contributing to tumorigenesis. Along with summarising the major components of tumor microenvironment and various interactions taking place between them, it also throws some light on how the existing and potential therapies exert their impact on these dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deblina Bharadwaj
- Department of Biotechnology, KIT-Kalaignarkarunanidhi Institute of Technology, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India.
| | - Mahitosh Mandal
- School of Medical Science and Technology, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, West Bengal, India.
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26
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Chang CY, Nguyen H, Frahm E, Kolaczyk K, Lin CC. Triple click chemistry for crosslinking, stiffening, and annealing of gelatin-based microgels. RSC APPLIED POLYMERS 2024; 2:656-669. [PMID: 39035826 PMCID: PMC11255916 DOI: 10.1039/d3lp00249g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
Microgels are spherical hydrogels with physicochemical properties ideal for many biomedical applications. For example, microgels can be used as individual carriers for suspension cell culture or jammed/annealed into granular hydrogels with micron-scale pores highly permissive to molecular transport and cell proliferation/migration. Conventionally, laborious optimization processes are often needed to create microgels with different moduli, sizes, and compositions. This work presents a new microgel and granular hydrogel preparation workflow using gelatin-norbornene-carbohydrazide (GelNB-CH). As a gelatin-derived macromer, GelNB-CH presents cell adhesive and degradable motifs while being amenable to three orthogonal click chemistries, namely the thiol-norbornene photo-click reaction, hydrazone bonding, and the inverse electron demand Diels-Alder (iEDDA) click reaction. The thiol-norbornene photo-click reaction (with thiol-bearing crosslinkers) and hydrazone bonding (with aldehyde-bearing crosslinkers) were used to crosslink the microgels and to realize on-demand microgel stiffening, respectively. The tetrazine-norbornene iEDDA click reaction (with tetrazine-bearing crosslinkers) was used to anneal microgels into granular hydrogels. In addition to materials development, we demonstrated the value of the triple-click chemistry granular hydrogels via culturing human mesenchymal stem cells and pancreatic cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Yi Chang
- Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University West Lafayette IN 47907 USA
| | - Han Nguyen
- Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University West Lafayette IN 47907 USA
| | - Ellen Frahm
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis Indianapolis IN 46202 USA
| | - Keith Kolaczyk
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis Indianapolis IN 46202 USA
| | - Chien-Chi Lin
- Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University West Lafayette IN 47907 USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis Indianapolis IN 46202 USA
- Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center Indianapolis IN 46202 USA
- Integrated Nanosystems Development Institute Indianapolis IN 46202 USA
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27
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Kong F, Lu Z, Xiong Y, Zhou L, Ye Q. A novel cancer-associated fibroblasts risk score model predict survival and immunotherapy in lung adenocarcinoma. Mol Genet Genomics 2024; 299:70. [PMID: 39017768 DOI: 10.1007/s00438-024-02156-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: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/18/2024]
Abstract
Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is the leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are a special type of fibroblasts, which play an important role in the development and immune escape of tumors. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was used to construct the co-expression module. In combination with univariate Cox regression and analysis of least absolute shrinkage operator (LASSO), characteristics associated with CAFs were developed for a prognostic model. The migration and proliferation of lung cancer cells were evaluated in vitro. Finally, the expression levels of proteins were analyzed by Western blot. LASSO Cox regression algorithm was then performed to select hub genes. Finally, a total of 2 Genes (COL5A2, COL6A2) were obtained. We then divided LUAD patients into high- and low-risk groups based on CAFs risk scores. Survival analysis, CAFs score correlation analysis and tumor mutation load analysis showed that COL5A2 and COL6A2 were high-risk genes for LUAD. Human Protein Atlas (HPA), western blot and PCR results showed that COL5A2 and COL6A2 were up-regulated in LUAD tissues. When COL5A2 and COL6A2 were knocked down, the proliferation, invasion and migration of lung cancer cells were significantly decreased. Finally, COL5A2 can affect LUAD progression through the Wnt/β-Catenin and TGF-β signaling pathways. Our CAFs risk score model offers a new approach for predicting the prognosis of LUAD patients. Furthermore, the identification of high-risk genes COL5A2 and COL6A2 and drug sensitivity analysis can provide valuable candidate clues for clinical treatment of LUAD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanhua Kong
- Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Institute of Hepatobiliary Diseases of Wuhan University, Transplant Center of Wuhan University, Hubei Key Laboratory of Medical Technology on Transplantation, Engineering Research Center of Natural Polymer-based Medical Materials in Hubei Province, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China
| | - Zhongshan Lu
- Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Institute of Hepatobiliary Diseases of Wuhan University, Transplant Center of Wuhan University, Hubei Key Laboratory of Medical Technology on Transplantation, Engineering Research Center of Natural Polymer-based Medical Materials in Hubei Province, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China
| | - Yan Xiong
- Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Institute of Hepatobiliary Diseases of Wuhan University, Transplant Center of Wuhan University, Hubei Key Laboratory of Medical Technology on Transplantation, Engineering Research Center of Natural Polymer-based Medical Materials in Hubei Province, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China.
| | - Lihua Zhou
- Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Institute of Hepatobiliary Diseases of Wuhan University, Transplant Center of Wuhan University, Hubei Key Laboratory of Medical Technology on Transplantation, Engineering Research Center of Natural Polymer-based Medical Materials in Hubei Province, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China.
| | - Qifa Ye
- Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Institute of Hepatobiliary Diseases of Wuhan University, Transplant Center of Wuhan University, Hubei Key Laboratory of Medical Technology on Transplantation, Engineering Research Center of Natural Polymer-based Medical Materials in Hubei Province, Wuhan, Hubei, 430071, China.
- The 3rd Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Research Center of National Health Ministry on Transplantation Medicine Engineering and Technology, Changsha, China.
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28
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Zheng S, Hu C, Lin Q, Li T, Li G, Tian Q, Zhang X, Huang T, Ye Y, He R, Chen C, Zhou Y, Chen R. Extracellular vesicle-packaged PIAT from cancer-associated fibroblasts drives neural remodeling by mediating m5C modification in pancreatic cancer mouse models. Sci Transl Med 2024; 16:eadi0178. [PMID: 39018369 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.adi0178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/19/2024]
Abstract
Perineural invasion (PNI) is a biological characteristic commonly observed in pancreatic cancer. Although PNI plays a key role in pancreatic cancer metastasis, recurrence, and poor postoperative survival, its mechanism is largely unclarified. Clinical sample analysis and endoscopic ultrasonographic elasticity scoring indicated that cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) were closely related to the occurrence of PNI. Furthermore, CAF-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) were involved in PNI in dorsal root ganglion coculture and mouse sciatic nerve models. Next, we demonstrated that CAFs promoted PNI through extracellular vesicle transmission of PNI-associated transcript (PIAT). Mechanistically, PIAT specifically bound to YBX1 and blocked the YBX1-Nedd4l interaction to inhibit YBX1 ubiquitination and degradation. Furthermore, PIAT enhanced the binding of YBX1 and PNI-associated mRNAs in a 5-methylcytosine (m5C)-dependent manner. Mutation of m5C recognition motifs in YBX1 or m5C sites in downstream target genes reversed PIAT-mediated PNI. Consistent with these findings, analyses using a KPC mouse model demonstrated that the PIAT/YBX1 axis enhanced PNI through m5C modification. Clinical data suggested that the PIAT expression in the serum EVs of patients with pancreatic cancer was associated with the degree of neural invasion and prognosis. Our study revealed the important role of the PIAT/YBX1 signaling axis in the tumor microenvironment (TME) in promoting tumor cell PNI and provided a new target for precise interference with CAFs and RNA methylation in the TME to suppress PNI in pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shangyou Zheng
- Department of Pancreas Center, Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, People's Republic of China
| | - Chonghui Hu
- Department of Pancreas Center, Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, People's Republic of China
| | - Qing Lin
- Department of Pancreas Center, Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, People's Republic of China
| | - Tingting Li
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, People's Republic of China
| | - Guolin Li
- Department of Hepatobiliary, Pancreatic and Splenic Surgery, Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510655, People's Republic of China
| | - Qing Tian
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiang Zhang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, People's Republic of China
| | - Tianhao Huang
- Department of Pancreas Center, Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, People's Republic of China
- Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuancheng Ye
- Department of Pancreas Center, Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, People's Republic of China
- Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510515, People's Republic of China
| | - Rihua He
- Department of Pancreas Center, Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, People's Republic of China
- Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong 515041, People's Republic of China
| | - Changhao Chen
- Department of Urology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510120, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu Zhou
- Department of Pancreas Center, Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, People's Republic of China
| | - Rufu Chen
- Department of Pancreas Center, Department of General Surgery, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital (Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences), Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, People's Republic of China
- Department of Hepatobiliary, Pancreatic and Splenic Surgery, Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510655, People's Republic of China
- Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, People's Republic of China
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29
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Yue S, Wang X, Wang L, Li J, Zhou Y, Chen Y, Zhou Z, Yang X, Shi X, Gao S, Wen Z, Zhu X, Wang Y, Yang S. MOTAI: A Novel Method for the Study of O-GalNAcylation and Complex O-Glycosylation in Cancer. Anal Chem 2024; 96:11137-11145. [PMID: 38953491 PMCID: PMC11257061 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.3c05018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
The Tn antigen, an immature truncated O-glycosylation, is a promising biomarker for cancer detection and diagnosis. However, reliable methods for analyzing O-GalNAcylation and complex O-glycosylation are lacking. Here, we develop a novel method, MOTAI, for the sequential analysis of O-glycosylation using different O-glycoproteases. MOTAI conjugates glycopeptides on a solid support and releases different types of O-glycosylation through sequential enzymatic digestion by O-glycoproteases, including OpeRATOR and IMPa. Because OpeRATOR has less activity on O-GalNAcylation, MOTAI enriches O-GalNAcylation for subsequent analysis. We demonstrate the effectiveness of MOTAI by analyzing fetuin O-glycosylation and Jurkat cell lines. We then apply MOTAI to analyze colorectal cancer and benign colorectal polyps. We identify 32 Tn/sTn-glycoproteins and 43 T/sT-glycoproteins that are significantly increased in tumor tissues. Gene Ontology analysis reveals that most of these proteins are ECM proteins involved in the adhesion process of the intercellular matrix. Additionally, the protein disulfide isomerase CRELD2 has a significant difference in Tn expression, and the abnormally glycosylated T345 and S349 O-glycosylation sites in cancer group samples may promote the secretion of CRELD2 and ultimately tumorigenesis through ECM reshaping. In summary, MOTAI provides a powerful new tool for the in-depth analysis of O-GalNAcylation and complex O-glycosylation. It also reveals the upregulation of Tn/sTn-glycoproteins in colorectal cancer, which may provide new insights into cancer biology and biomarker discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Yue
- Center
for Clinical Mass Spectrometry, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Jiangsu, 215123, China
| | - Xiaotong Wang
- Department
of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, The
Affiliated Infectious Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215004, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Protein
Metrics LLC, Room 201-01,
Building A, Novasiot, 58 Xiangke Road, Zhangjiang, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Jiajia Li
- Center
for Clinical Mass Spectrometry, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Jiangsu, 215123, China
| | - Yufeng Zhou
- Center
for Clinical Mass Spectrometry, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Jiangsu, 215123, China
| | - Yan Chen
- Center
for Clinical Mass Spectrometry, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Jiangsu, 215123, China
| | - Zeyang Zhou
- Department
of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated
Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215004, China
| | - Xiaodong Yang
- Department
of General Surgery, The Second Affiliated
Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215004, China
| | - Xiaofeng Shi
- New
England Biolabs, Inc., 240 County Road, Ipswich, Massachusetts 01938, United States
| | - Song Gao
- Jiangsu Key
Laboratory of Marine Biological Resources and Environment, Jiangsu Ocean University, Lianyungang 222005, China
| | - Zhongmin Wen
- Health
Management Center, The Second Affiliated
Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215004, China
| | - Xiaojun Zhu
- Health
Management Center, The Second Affiliated
Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215004, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Mass
Spectrometry Facility, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial
Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, United States
| | - Shuang Yang
- Center
for Clinical Mass Spectrometry, College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Jiangsu, 215123, China
- Health
Management Center, The Second Affiliated
Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215004, China
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30
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Kuhn NF, Zaleta-Linares I, Nyberg WA, Eyquem J, Krummel MF. Localized in vivo gene editing of murine cancer-associated fibroblasts. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.07.11.603114. [PMID: 39071432 PMCID: PMC11275728 DOI: 10.1101/2024.07.11.603114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Discovering the role of fibroblasts residing in the tumor microenvironment (TME) requires controlled, localized perturbations because fibroblasts play critical roles in regulating immunity and tumor biology at multiple sites. Systemic perturbations can lead to unintended, confounding secondary effects, and methods to locally genetically engineer fibroblasts are lacking. To specifically investigate murine stromal cell perturbations restricted to the TME, we developed an adeno-associated virus (AAV)-based method to target any gene-of-interest in fibroblasts at high efficiency (>80%). As proof of concept, we generated single (sKO) and double gene KOs (dKO) of Osmr , Tgfbr2 , and Il1r1 in cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and investigated how their cell states and those of other cells of the TME subsequently change in mouse models of melanoma and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Furthermore, we developed an in vivo knockin-knockout (KIKO) strategy to achieve long-term tracking of CAFs with target gene KO via knocked-in reporter gene expression. This validated in vivo gene editing toolbox is fast, affordable, and modular, and thus holds great potential for further exploration of gene function in stromal cells residing in tumors and beyond.
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31
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Arteaga-Blanco LA, Evans AE, Dixon DA. Plasma-Derived Extracellular Vesicles and Non-Extracellular Vesicle Components from APC Min/+ Mice Promote Pro-Tumorigenic Activities and Activate Human Colonic Fibroblasts via the NF-κB Signaling Pathway. Cells 2024; 13:1195. [PMID: 39056778 PMCID: PMC11274984 DOI: 10.3390/cells13141195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2024] [Revised: 07/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most prevalent cancer worldwide. Current studies have demonstrated that tumor-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) from different cancer cell types modulate the fibroblast microenvironment to contribute to cancer development and progression. Here, we isolated and characterized circulating large EVs (LEVs), small EVs (SEVs) and non-EV entities released in the plasma from wild-type (WT) mice and the APCMin/+ CRC mice model. Our results showed that human colon fibroblasts exposed from APC-EVs, but not from WT-EVs, exhibited the phenotypes of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) through EV-mediated NF-κB pathway activation. Cytokine array analysis on secreted proteins revealed elevated levels of inflammatory cytokine implicated in cancer growth and metastasis. Finally, non-activated cells co-cultured with supernatant from fibroblasts treated with APC-EVs showed increased mRNA expressions of CAFs markers, the ECM, inflammatory cytokines, as well as the expression of genes controlled by NF-κB. Altogether, our work suggests that EVs and non-EV components from APCMin/+ mice are endowed with pro-tumorigenic activities and promoted inflammation and a CAF-like state by triggering NF-κB signaling in fibroblasts to support CRC growth and progression. These findings provide insight into the interaction between plasma-derived EVs and human cells and can be used to design new CRC diagnosis and prognosis tools.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrew E. Evans
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
| | - Dan A. Dixon
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
- University of Kansas Comprehensive Cancer Center, Kansas City, KS 66103, USA
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32
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Liu Y, Hou J, Zhao Y, Zhou J, Bai S, Ding Y. Comprehensive pan-cancer analysis of the C2ORF40 expression: Infiltration associations and prognostic implications. FASEB J 2024; 38:e23761. [PMID: 38941213 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202302386rr] [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: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/30/2024]
Abstract
In recent years, C2ORF40 has been identified as a tumor suppressor gene with multiple functions, including roles in cell proliferation, migration, and senescence. To explore the role of the C2ORF40 gene in different tumors, we used multiple databases for analysis. Compared to adjacent normal tissues, C2ORF40 is downregulated in a variety of malignant tumors, including tumors such as breast cancer, colorectal cancer, bladder cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma and prostate cancer. Notably, low expression of the gene is significantly associated with poor overall survival and relapse-free survival rates. In specific cancers including colon cancer and prostate cancer, the expression of C2ORF40 is correlated with the infiltration of CAFs. C2ORF40 is also involved in biological processes such as cell apoptosis and regulation of protein stability. In conclusion, C2ORF40 can hold promise as a prognostic marker for pan-cancer analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxi Liu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang, China
| | | | - Yunrong Zhao
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Jiangshan Zhou
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Shuhua Bai
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Administrative Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Western New England University, Springfield, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Yi Ding
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang, China
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33
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Li X, Hou W, Xiao C, Yang H, Zhao C, Cao D. Panoramic tumor microenvironment in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2024:10.1007/s13402-024-00970-6. [PMID: 39008192 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-024-00970-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is notorious for its resistance to various treatment modalities. The genetic heterogeneity of PDAC, coupled with the presence of a desmoplastic stroma within the tumor microenvironment (TME), contributes to an unfavorable prognosis. The mechanisms and consequences of interactions among different cell types, along with spatial variations influencing cellular function, potentially play a role in the pathogenesis of PDAC. Understanding the diverse compositions of the TME and elucidating the functions of microscopic neighborhoods may contribute to understanding the immune microenvironment status in pancreatic cancer. As we delve into the spatial biology of the microscopic neighborhoods within the TME, aiding in deciphering the factors that orchestrate this intricate ecosystem. This overview delineates the fundamental constituents and the structural arrangement of the PDAC microenvironment, highlighting their impact on cancer cell biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoying Li
- Department of Abdominal Oncology, Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610017, People's Republic of China
| | - Wanting Hou
- Department of Abdominal Oncology, Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610017, People's Republic of China
| | - Chaoxin Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China HospitaL, Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610017, People's Republic of China
| | - Heqi Yang
- Department of Abdominal Oncology, Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610017, People's Republic of China
| | - Chengjian Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China HospitaL, Collaborative Innovation Center for Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610017, People's Republic of China
| | - Dan Cao
- Department of Abdominal Oncology, Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610017, People's Republic of China.
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34
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Uher O, Hadrava Vanova K, Taïeb D, Calsina B, Robledo M, Clifton-Bligh R, Pacak K. The Immune Landscape of Pheochromocytoma and Paraganglioma: Current Advances and Perspectives. Endocr Rev 2024; 45:521-552. [PMID: 38377172 PMCID: PMC11244254 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnae005] [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: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
Pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas (PPGLs) are rare neuroendocrine tumors derived from neural crest cells from adrenal medullary chromaffin tissues and extra-adrenal paraganglia, respectively. Although the current treatment for PPGLs is surgery, optimal treatment options for advanced and metastatic cases have been limited. Hence, understanding the role of the immune system in PPGL tumorigenesis can provide essential knowledge for the development of better therapeutic and tumor management strategies, especially for those with advanced and metastatic PPGLs. The first part of this review outlines the fundamental principles of the immune system and tumor microenvironment, and their role in cancer immunoediting, particularly emphasizing PPGLs. We focus on how the unique pathophysiology of PPGLs, such as their high molecular, biochemical, and imaging heterogeneity and production of several oncometabolites, creates a tumor-specific microenvironment and immunologically "cold" tumors. Thereafter, we discuss recently published studies related to the reclustering of PPGLs based on their immune signature. The second part of this review discusses future perspectives in PPGL management, including immunodiagnostic and promising immunotherapeutic approaches for converting "cold" tumors into immunologically active or "hot" tumors known for their better immunotherapy response and patient outcomes. Special emphasis is placed on potent immune-related imaging strategies and immune signatures that could be used for the reclassification, prognostication, and management of these tumors to improve patient care and prognosis. Furthermore, we introduce currently available immunotherapies and their possible combinations with other available therapies as an emerging treatment for PPGLs that targets hostile tumor environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ondrej Uher
- Section of Medical Neuroendocrinology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892-1109, USA
| | - Katerina Hadrava Vanova
- Section of Medical Neuroendocrinology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892-1109, USA
| | - David Taïeb
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, CHU de La Timone, Marseille 13005, France
| | - Bruna Calsina
- Hereditary Endocrine Cancer Group, Human Cancer Genetics Program, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO), Madrid 28029, Spain
- Familiar Cancer Clinical Unit, Human Cancer Genetics Program, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO), Madrid 28029, Spain
| | - Mercedes Robledo
- Hereditary Endocrine Cancer Group, Human Cancer Genetics Program, Spanish National Cancer Research Centre (CNIO), Madrid 28029, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Institute of Health Carlos III (ISCIII), Madrid 28029, Spain
| | - Roderick Clifton-Bligh
- Department of Endocrinology, Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney 2065, NSW, Australia
- Cancer Genetics Laboratory, Kolling Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney 2065, NSW, Australia
| | - Karel Pacak
- Section of Medical Neuroendocrinology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892-1109, USA
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35
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Ishibashi K, Hirata E. Multifaceted interactions between cancer cells and glial cells in brain metastasis. Cancer Sci 2024. [PMID: 38992968 DOI: 10.1111/cas.16241] [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: 04/17/2024] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer brain metastasis has a poor prognosis, is commonly observed in clinical practice, and the number of cases is increasing as overall cancer survival improves. However, experiments in mouse models have shown that brain metastasis itself is an inefficient process. One reason for this inefficiency is the brain microenvironment, which differs significantly from that of other organs, making it difficult for cancer cells to adapt. The brain microenvironment consists of unique resident cell types such as neurons, oligodendrocytes, astrocytes, and microglia. Accumulating evidence over the past decades suggests that the interactions between cancer cells and glial cells can positively or negatively influence the development of brain metastasis. Nevertheless, elucidating the complex interactions between cancer cells and glial cells remains challenging, in part due to the limitations of existing experimental models for glial cell culture. In this review, we first provide an overview of glial cell culture methods and then examine recent discoveries regarding the interactions between brain metastatic cancer cells and the surrounding glial cells, with a special focus on astrocytes and microglia. Finally, we discuss future perspectives for understanding the multifaceted interactions between cancer cells and glial cells for the treatment of metastatic brain tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kojiro Ishibashi
- Division of Tumor Cell Biology and Bioimaging, Cancer Research Institute of Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
| | - Eishu Hirata
- Division of Tumor Cell Biology and Bioimaging, Cancer Research Institute of Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
- WPI Nano Life Science Institute, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan
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36
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Eliahoo P, Setayesh H, Hoffman T, Wu Y, Li S, Treweek JB. Viscoelasticity in 3D Cell Culture and Regenerative Medicine: Measurement Techniques and Biological Relevance. ACS MATERIALS AU 2024; 4:354-384. [PMID: 39006396 PMCID: PMC11240420 DOI: 10.1021/acsmaterialsau.3c00038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
The field of mechanobiology is gaining prominence due to recent findings that show cells sense and respond to the mechanical properties of their environment through a process called mechanotransduction. The mechanical properties of cells, cell organelles, and the extracellular matrix are understood to be viscoelastic. Various technologies have been researched and developed for measuring the viscoelasticity of biological materials, which may provide insight into both the cellular mechanisms and the biological functions of mechanotransduction. Here, we explain the concept of viscoelasticity and introduce the major techniques that have been used to measure the viscoelasticity of various soft materials in different length- and timescale frames. The topology of the material undergoing testing, the geometry of the probe, the magnitude of the exerted stress, and the resulting deformation should be carefully considered to choose a proper technique for each application. Lastly, we discuss several applications of viscoelasticity in 3D cell culture and tissue models for regenerative medicine, including organoids, organ-on-a-chip systems, engineered tissue constructs, and tunable viscoelastic hydrogels for 3D bioprinting and cell-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Payam Eliahoo
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089 United States
| | - Hesam Setayesh
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089 United States
| | - Tyler Hoffman
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095 United States
| | - Yifan Wu
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095 United States
| | - Song Li
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095 United States
| | - Jennifer B Treweek
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089 United States
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37
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Pittar A, Buckley EJ, Boyle ST, Ibbetson SJ, Samuel MS. Enhanced RHO-ROCK signaling is associated with CRELD2 production and fibroblast recruitment in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. Cytoskeleton (Hoboken) 2024. [PMID: 38979935 DOI: 10.1002/cm.21894] [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: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
A key characteristic of cancer cells is their ability to induce changes in their microenvironment that render it permissive to tumor growth, invasion and metastasis. Indeed, these changes are required for tumor progression. Consequently, the tumor microenvironment is emerging as a key source of new targets against cancer, with novel therapies aimed at reversing tumor-promoting changes, reinstating a tumor-hostile microenvironment and suppressing disease progression. RHO-ROCK signaling, and consequent tension within the cellular actomyosin cytoskeleton, regulates a paracrine signaling cascade that establishes a tumor-promoting microenvironment. Here, we show that consistent with our observations in breast cancer, enhanced ROCK activity and consequent production of CRELD2 is associated with the recruitment and tumor-promoting polarization of cancer-associated fibroblasts in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. Our observations provide support for the notion that the role of RHO-ROCK signaling in establishing a tumor-promoting microenvironment may be conserved across patients and potentially also different cancer types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Pittar
- Centre for Cancer Biology, an Alliance between SA Pathology and the University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Edward J Buckley
- Centre for Cancer Biology, an Alliance between SA Pathology and the University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Sarah T Boyle
- Centre for Cancer Biology, an Alliance between SA Pathology and the University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
| | - S Jan Ibbetson
- Division of Surgical Pathology, SA Pathology, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Michael S Samuel
- Centre for Cancer Biology, an Alliance between SA Pathology and the University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
- Adelaide Medical School, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- Basil Hetzel Institute for Translational Health Research, Woodville South, Adelaide, Australia
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38
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Karunasagara S, Taghizadeh A, Kim SH, Kim SJ, Kim YJ, Taghizadeh M, Kim MY, Oh KY, Lee JH, Kim HS, Hyun J, Kim HW. Tissue Mechanics and Hedgehog Signaling Crosstalk as a Key Epithelial-Stromal Interplay in Cancer Development. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024:e2400063. [PMID: 38976559 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202400063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
Epithelial-stromal interplay through chemomechanical cues from cells and matrix propels cancer progression. Elevated tissue stiffness in potentially malignant tissues suggests a link between matrix stiffness and enhanced tumor growth. In this study, employing chronic oral/esophageal injury and cancer models, it is demonstrated that epithelial-stromal interplay through matrix stiffness and Hedgehog (Hh) signaling is key in compounding cancer development. Epithelial cells actively interact with fibroblasts, exchanging mechanoresponsive signals during the precancerous stage. Specifically, epithelial cells release Sonic Hh, activating fibroblasts to produce matrix proteins and remodeling enzymes, resulting in tissue stiffening. Subsequently, basal epithelial cells adjacent to the stiffened tissue become proliferative and undergo epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, acquiring migratory and invasive properties, thereby promoting invasive tumor growth. Notably, transcriptomic programs of oncogenic GLI2, mechano-activated by actin cytoskeletal tension, govern this process, elucidating the crucial role of non-canonical GLI2 activation in orchestrating the proliferation and mesenchymal transition of epithelial cells. Furthermore, pharmacological intervention targeting tissue stiffening proves highly effective in slowing cancer progression. These findings underscore the impact of epithelial-stromal interplay through chemo-mechanical (Hh-stiffness) signaling in cancer development, and suggest that targeting tissue stiffness holds promise as a strategy to disrupt chemo-mechanical feedback, enabling effective cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanika Karunasagara
- Institute of Tissue Regeneration Engineering (ITREN), Dankook University, Cheonan, 31116, Republic of Korea
- Department of Nanobiomedical Science & BK21 Global Research Center for Regenerative Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan, 31116, Republic of Korea
| | - Ali Taghizadeh
- Institute of Tissue Regeneration Engineering (ITREN), Dankook University, Cheonan, 31116, Republic of Korea
- Department of Nanobiomedical Science & BK21 Global Research Center for Regenerative Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan, 31116, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Hyun Kim
- Institute of Tissue Regeneration Engineering (ITREN), Dankook University, Cheonan, 31116, Republic of Korea
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science & Technology, Dankook University, Cheonan, 31116, Republic of Korea
| | - So Jung Kim
- Institute of Tissue Regeneration Engineering (ITREN), Dankook University, Cheonan, 31116, Republic of Korea
- Department of Nanobiomedical Science & BK21 Global Research Center for Regenerative Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan, 31116, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong-Jae Kim
- Institute of Tissue Regeneration Engineering (ITREN), Dankook University, Cheonan, 31116, Republic of Korea
- Department of Nanobiomedical Science & BK21 Global Research Center for Regenerative Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan, 31116, Republic of Korea
| | - Mohsen Taghizadeh
- Institute of Tissue Regeneration Engineering (ITREN), Dankook University, Cheonan, 31116, Republic of Korea
- Department of Nanobiomedical Science & BK21 Global Research Center for Regenerative Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan, 31116, Republic of Korea
| | - Moon-Young Kim
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, College of Dentistry, Dankook University, Cheonan, 31116, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyu-Young Oh
- Department of Oral Pathology, College of Dentistry, Dankook University, Cheonan, 31116, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung-Hwan Lee
- Institute of Tissue Regeneration Engineering (ITREN), Dankook University, Cheonan, 31116, Republic of Korea
- Department of Nanobiomedical Science & BK21 Global Research Center for Regenerative Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan, 31116, Republic of Korea
- Mechanobiology Dental Medicine Research Center, Dankook University, Cheonan, 31116, Republic of Korea
- UCL Eastman-Korea Dental Medicine Innovation Centre, Dankook University, Cheonan, 31116, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biomaterials Science, College of Dentistry, Dankook University, Cheonan, 31116, Republic of Korea
- Cell & Matter Institute, Dankook University, Cheonan, 31116, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye Sung Kim
- Institute of Tissue Regeneration Engineering (ITREN), Dankook University, Cheonan, 31116, Republic of Korea
- Department of Nanobiomedical Science & BK21 Global Research Center for Regenerative Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan, 31116, Republic of Korea
- Mechanobiology Dental Medicine Research Center, Dankook University, Cheonan, 31116, Republic of Korea
- UCL Eastman-Korea Dental Medicine Innovation Centre, Dankook University, Cheonan, 31116, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeongeun Hyun
- Institute of Tissue Regeneration Engineering (ITREN), Dankook University, Cheonan, 31116, Republic of Korea
- Department of Nanobiomedical Science & BK21 Global Research Center for Regenerative Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan, 31116, Republic of Korea
- Mechanobiology Dental Medicine Research Center, Dankook University, Cheonan, 31116, Republic of Korea
- UCL Eastman-Korea Dental Medicine Innovation Centre, Dankook University, Cheonan, 31116, Republic of Korea
- Department of Regenerative Dental Medicine, College of Dentistry, Dankook University, Cheonan, 31116, Republic of Korea
| | - Hae-Won Kim
- Institute of Tissue Regeneration Engineering (ITREN), Dankook University, Cheonan, 31116, Republic of Korea
- Department of Nanobiomedical Science & BK21 Global Research Center for Regenerative Medicine, Dankook University, Cheonan, 31116, Republic of Korea
- Mechanobiology Dental Medicine Research Center, Dankook University, Cheonan, 31116, Republic of Korea
- UCL Eastman-Korea Dental Medicine Innovation Centre, Dankook University, Cheonan, 31116, Republic of Korea
- Department of Regenerative Dental Medicine, College of Dentistry, Dankook University, Cheonan, 31116, Republic of Korea
- Cell & Matter Institute, Dankook University, Cheonan, 31116, Republic of Korea
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Guo J, Li L, Chen F, Fu M, Cheng C, Wang M, Hu J, Pei L, Sun J. Forces Bless You: Mechanosensitive Piezo Channels in Gastrointestinal Physiology and Pathology. Biomolecules 2024; 14:804. [PMID: 39062518 PMCID: PMC11274378 DOI: 10.3390/biom14070804] [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: 05/22/2024] [Revised: 07/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The gastrointestinal (GI) tract is an organ actively involved in mechanical processes, where it detects forces via a mechanosensation mechanism. Mechanosensation relies on specialized cells termed mechanoreceptors, which convert mechanical forces into electrochemical signals via mechanosensors. The mechanosensitive Piezo1 and Piezo2 are widely expressed in various mechanosensitive cells that respond to GI mechanical forces by altering transmembrane ionic currents, such as epithelial cells, enterochromaffin cells, and intrinsic and extrinsic enteric neurons. This review highlights recent research advances on mechanosensitive Piezo channels in GI physiology and pathology. Specifically, the latest insights on the role of Piezo channels in the intestinal barrier, GI motility, and intestinal mechanosensation are summarized. Additionally, an overview of Piezo channels in the pathogenesis of GI disorders, including irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, and GI cancers, is provided. Overall, the presence of mechanosensitive Piezo channels offers a promising new perspective for the treatment of various GI disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Guo
- Health and Rehabilitation College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China; (J.G.); (C.C.); (M.W.); (J.H.)
| | - Li Li
- Department of Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, The Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210029, China; (L.L.); (F.C.); (M.F.)
| | - Feiyi Chen
- Department of Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, The Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210029, China; (L.L.); (F.C.); (M.F.)
| | - Minhan Fu
- Department of Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, The Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210029, China; (L.L.); (F.C.); (M.F.)
| | - Cheng Cheng
- Health and Rehabilitation College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China; (J.G.); (C.C.); (M.W.); (J.H.)
| | - Meizi Wang
- Health and Rehabilitation College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China; (J.G.); (C.C.); (M.W.); (J.H.)
| | - Jun Hu
- Health and Rehabilitation College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China; (J.G.); (C.C.); (M.W.); (J.H.)
| | - Lixia Pei
- Department of Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, The Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210029, China; (L.L.); (F.C.); (M.F.)
| | - Jianhua Sun
- Department of Acupuncture and Rehabilitation, The Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210029, China; (L.L.); (F.C.); (M.F.)
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Pereira BA, Ritchie S, Chambers CR, Gordon KA, Magenau A, Murphy KJ, Nobis M, Tyma VM, Liew YF, Lucas MC, Naeini MM, Barkauskas DS, Chacon-Fajardo D, Howell AE, Parker AL, Warren SC, Reed DA, Lee V, Metcalf XL, Lee YK, O’Regan LP, Zhu J, Trpceski M, Fontaine ARM, Stoehr J, Rouet R, Lin X, Chitty JL, Porazinski S, Wu SZ, Filipe EC, Cadell AL, Holliday H, Yang J, Papanicolaou M, Lyons RJ, Zaratzian A, Tayao M, Da Silva A, Vennin C, Yin J, Dew AB, McMillan PJ, Goldstein LD, Deveson IW, Croucher DR, Samuel MS, Sim HW, Batten M, Chantrill L, Grimmond SM, Gill AJ, Samra J, Jeffry Evans TR, Sasaki T, Phan TG, Swarbrick A, Sansom OJ, Morton JP, Pajic M, Parker BL, Herrmann D, Cox TR, Timpson P. Temporally resolved proteomics identifies nidogen-2 as a cotarget in pancreatic cancer that modulates fibrosis and therapy response. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eadl1197. [PMID: 38959305 PMCID: PMC11221519 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adl1197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is characterized by increasing fibrosis, which can enhance tumor progression and spread. Here, we undertook an unbiased temporal assessment of the matrisome of the highly metastatic KPC (Pdx1-Cre, LSL-KrasG12D/+, LSL-Trp53R172H/+) and poorly metastatic KPflC (Pdx1-Cre, LSL-KrasG12D/+, Trp53fl/+) genetically engineered mouse models of pancreatic cancer using mass spectrometry proteomics. Our assessment at early-, mid-, and late-stage disease reveals an increased abundance of nidogen-2 (NID2) in the KPC model compared to KPflC, with further validation showing that NID2 is primarily expressed by cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). Using biomechanical assessments, second harmonic generation imaging, and birefringence analysis, we show that NID2 reduction by CRISPR interference (CRISPRi) in CAFs reduces stiffness and matrix remodeling in three-dimensional models, leading to impaired cancer cell invasion. Intravital imaging revealed improved vascular patency in live NID2-depleted tumors, with enhanced response to gemcitabine/Abraxane. In orthotopic models, NID2 CRISPRi tumors had less liver metastasis and increased survival, highlighting NID2 as a potential PDAC cotarget.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brooke A. Pereira
- Cancer Ecosystems Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Shona Ritchie
- Cancer Ecosystems Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Cecilia R. Chambers
- Cancer Ecosystems Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Katie A. Gordon
- Cancer Ecosystems Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Astrid Magenau
- Cancer Ecosystems Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Kendelle J. Murphy
- Cancer Ecosystems Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Max Nobis
- Cancer Ecosystems Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
- Intravital Imaging Expertise Center, VIB Center for Cancer Biology, VIB, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Victoria M. Tyma
- Cancer Ecosystems Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ying Fei Liew
- Cancer Ecosystems Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Morghan C. Lucas
- Cancer Ecosystems Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain
- Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marjan M. Naeini
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
- Genomics and Inherited Disease Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Deborah S. Barkauskas
- Cancer Ecosystems Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
- ACRF INCITe Intravital Imaging Centre, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Diego Chacon-Fajardo
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
- Translational Oncology Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Anna E. Howell
- Cancer Ecosystems Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Amelia L. Parker
- Cancer Ecosystems Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sean C. Warren
- Cancer Ecosystems Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Daniel A. Reed
- Cancer Ecosystems Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Victoria Lee
- Cancer Ecosystems Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Xanthe L. Metcalf
- Cancer Ecosystems Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Young Kyung Lee
- Cancer Ecosystems Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Luke P. O’Regan
- Cancer Ecosystems Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jessie Zhu
- Cancer Ecosystems Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Michael Trpceski
- Cancer Ecosystems Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Angela R. M. Fontaine
- Cancer Ecosystems Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
- ACRF INCITe Intravital Imaging Centre, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Janett Stoehr
- Cancer Ecosystems Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Romain Rouet
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
- Immune Biotherapies Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Xufeng Lin
- Data Science Platform, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jessica L. Chitty
- Cancer Ecosystems Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sean Porazinski
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
- Translational Oncology Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sunny Z. Wu
- Cancer Ecosystems Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
- Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Elysse C. Filipe
- Cancer Ecosystems Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Antonia L. Cadell
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
- Translational Oncology Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Holly Holliday
- Cancer Ecosystems Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
- Children’s Cancer Institute, Lowy Cancer Research Centre, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jessica Yang
- Cancer Ecosystems Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Michael Papanicolaou
- Cancer Ecosystems Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ruth J. Lyons
- Cancer Ecosystems Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Anaiis Zaratzian
- Histopathology Platform, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Michael Tayao
- Histopathology Platform, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Andrew Da Silva
- Histopathology Platform, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Claire Vennin
- Cancer Ecosystems Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
- Division of Molecular Pathology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Antoni van Leeuwenhoek Hospital, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Julia Yin
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
- Translational Oncology Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Alysha B. Dew
- Centre for Advanced Histology & Microscopy, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Paul J. McMillan
- Centre for Advanced Histology & Microscopy, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Biological Optical Microscopy Platform, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Leonard D. Goldstein
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
- Data Science Platform, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ira W. Deveson
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
- Genomics and Inherited Disease Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
| | - David R. Croucher
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
- Translational Oncology Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Michael S. Samuel
- Centre for Cancer Biology, An Alliance of SA Pathology and University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Basil Hetzel Institute for Translational Health Research, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Woodville South, South Australia, Australia
| | - Hao-Wen Sim
- Cancer Ecosystems Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
- NHMRC Clinical Trials Centre, University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Medical Oncology, Chris O’Brien Lifehouse, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Marcel Batten
- Cancer Ecosystems Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Lorraine Chantrill
- Cancer Ecosystems Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Medical Oncology, Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sean M. Grimmond
- Centre for Cancer Research and Department of Clinical Pathology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Anthony J. Gill
- Cancer Ecosystems Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
- NSW Health Pathology, Department of Anatomical Pathology, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, New South Wales, Australia
- Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jaswinder Samra
- Department of Surgery, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Thomas R. Jeffry Evans
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Glasgow, UK
- School of Cancer Sciences, Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Takako Sasaki
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Oita University, Oita, Japan
| | - Tri G. Phan
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
- Precision Immunology Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Alexander Swarbrick
- Cancer Ecosystems Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Owen J. Sansom
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Glasgow, UK
- School of Cancer Sciences, Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Jennifer P. Morton
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Glasgow, UK
- School of Cancer Sciences, Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | | | | | - Marina Pajic
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
- Translational Oncology Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Benjamin L. Parker
- Department of Anatomy and Physiology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - David Herrmann
- Cancer Ecosystems Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Thomas R. Cox
- Cancer Ecosystems Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Paul Timpson
- Cancer Ecosystems Program, Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Darlinghurst, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney, Kensington, New South Wales, Australia
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Pan S, Yin R, Zhu H, Shen S, Li Z, Liu B. Prostate cancer cancer-associated fibroblasts with stable markers post-androgen deprivation therapy associated with tumor progression and castration resistant prostate cancer. Cancer Sci 2024. [PMID: 38970292 DOI: 10.1111/cas.16267] [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: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024] Open
Abstract
The specificity and clinical relevance of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in prostate cancer (PCa), as well as the effect of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) on CAFs, remain to be fully elucidated. Using cell lineage diversity and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), we pinpointed a unique CAF signature exclusive to PCa. The specificity of this CAF signature was validated through single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), cell line RNA sequencing, and immunohistochemistry. This signature associates CAFs with tumor progression, elevated Gleason scores, and the emergence of castration resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). Using scRNA-seq on collected samples, we demonstrated that the CAF-specific signature is not altered by ADT, maintaining its peak signal output. Identifying a PCa-specific CAF signature and observing signaling changes in CAFs after ADT lay essential groundwork for further PCa studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shen Pan
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Rui Yin
- Department of Urology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Hehe Zhu
- Department of Urology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Siang Shen
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Zhenhua Li
- Department of Urology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Bitian Liu
- Department of Urology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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Nicolas E, Kosmider B, Cukierman E, Borghaei H, Golemis EA, Borriello L. Cancer treatments as paradoxical catalysts of tumor awakening in the lung. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2024:10.1007/s10555-024-10196-5. [PMID: 38963567 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-024-10196-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
Much of the fatality of tumors is linked to the growth of metastases, which can emerge months to years after apparently successful treatment of primary tumors. Metastases arise from disseminated tumor cells (DTCs), which disperse through the body in a dormant state to seed distant sites. While some DTCs lodge in pre-metastatic niches (PMNs) and rapidly develop into metastases, other DTCs settle in distinct microenvironments that maintain them in a dormant state. Subsequent awakening, induced by changes in the microenvironment of the DTC, causes outgrowth of metastases. Hence, there has been extensive investigation of the factors causing survival and subsequent awakening of DTCs, with the goal of disrupting these processes to decrease cancer lethality. We here provide a detailed overview of recent developments in understanding of the factors controlling dormancy and awakening in the lung, a common site of metastasis for many solid tumors. These factors include dynamic interactions between DTCs and diverse epithelial, mesenchymal, and immune cell populations resident in the lung. Paradoxically, among key triggers for metastatic outgrowth, lung tissue remodeling arising from damage induced by the treatment of primary tumors play a significant role. In addition, growing evidence emphasizes roles for inflammation and aging in opposing the factors that maintain dormancy. Finally, we discuss strategies being developed or employed to reduce the risk of metastatic recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuelle Nicolas
- Cancer Signaling and Microenvironment Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, 333 Cottman Avenue, Philadelphia, PA, 19111, USA
| | - Beata Kosmider
- Center for Inflammation and Lung Research, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, 3500 N Broad St., Philadelphia, PA, 19140, USA
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Inflammation, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, 3500 N Broad St., Philadelphia, PA, 19140, USA
| | - Edna Cukierman
- Cancer Signaling and Microenvironment Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, 333 Cottman Avenue, Philadelphia, PA, 19111, USA
| | - Hossein Borghaei
- Cancer Signaling and Microenvironment Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, 333 Cottman Avenue, Philadelphia, PA, 19111, USA
| | - Erica A Golemis
- Cancer Signaling and Microenvironment Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, 333 Cottman Avenue, Philadelphia, PA, 19111, USA
- Department of Cancer and Cellular Biology, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, 3500 N Broad St., Philadelphia, PA, 19140, USA
| | - Lucia Borriello
- Cancer Signaling and Microenvironment Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, 333 Cottman Avenue, Philadelphia, PA, 19111, USA.
- Department of Cancer and Cellular Biology, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University, 3500 N Broad St., Philadelphia, PA, 19140, USA.
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Peng H, Yang M, Feng K, Lv Q, Zhang Y. Semaphorin 3C (Sema3C) reshapes stromal microenvironment to promote hepatocellular carcinoma progression. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:169. [PMID: 38956074 PMCID: PMC11220018 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01887-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024] Open
Abstract
More than 90% of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cases develop in the presence of fibrosis or cirrhosis, making the tumor microenvironment (TME) of HCC distinctive due to the intricate interplay between cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and cancer stem cells (CSCs), which collectively regulate HCC progression. However, the mechanisms through which CSCs orchestrate the dynamics of the tumor stroma during HCC development remain elusive. Our study unveils a significant upregulation of Sema3C in fibrotic liver, HCC tissues, peripheral blood of HCC patients, as well as sorafenib-resistant tissues and cells, with its overexpression correlating with the acquisition of stemness properties in HCC. We further identify NRP1 and ITGB1 as pivotal functional receptors of Sema3C, activating downstream AKT/Gli1/c-Myc signaling pathways to bolster HCC self-renewal and tumor initiation. Additionally, HCC cells-derived Sema3C facilitated extracellular matrix (ECM) contraction and collagen deposition in vivo, while also promoting the proliferation and activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Mechanistically, Sema3C interacted with NRP1 and ITGB1 in HSCs, activating downstream NF-kB signaling, thereby stimulating the release of IL-6 and upregulating HMGCR expression, consequently enhancing cholesterol synthesis in HSCs. Furthermore, CAF-secreted TGF-β1 activates AP1 signaling to augment Sema3C expression in HCC cells, establishing a positive feedback loop that accelerates HCC progression. Notably, blockade of Sema3C effectively inhibits tumor growth and sensitizes HCC cells to sorafenib in vivo. In sum, our findings spotlight Sema3C as a novel biomarker facilitating the crosstalk between CSCs and stroma during hepatocarcinogenesis, thereby offering a promising avenue for enhancing treatment efficacy and overcoming drug resistance in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Peng
- Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Meng Yang
- Department of Ultrasound, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical. Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Kun Feng
- Hepatopancreatobiliary Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Qingpeng Lv
- Hepatopancreatobiliary Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210009, China
| | - Yewei Zhang
- Hepatopancreatobiliary Center, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210009, China.
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Li L, Cao R, Chen K, Qu C, Qian K, Lin J, Li R, Lai C, Wang X, Han Z, Xu Z, Zhou L, Song S, Zhu W, Cheng Z. Development of an FAP-Targeted PET Probe Based on a Novel Quinolinium Molecular Scaffold. Bioconjug Chem 2024. [PMID: 38954733 DOI: 10.1021/acs.bioconjchem.4c00214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
Fibroblast activation protein (FAP) has recently gained significant attention as a promising tumor biomarker for both diagnosis and therapeutic applications. A series of radiopharmaceuticals based on fibroblast activation protein inhibitors (FAPIs) have been developed and translated into the clinic. Though some of them such as radiolabeled FAPI-04 probes have achieved favorable in vivo imaging performance, further improvement is still highly desired for obtaining radiopharmaceuticals with a high theranostics potential. In this study, we innovatively designed an FAPI ligand SMIC-3002 by changing the core quinoline motif of FAPI-04 to the quinolinium scaffold. The engineered molecule was further radiolabeled with 68Ga to generate a positron emission tomography (PET) probe, [68Ga]Ga-SMIC-3002, which was then evaluated in vitro and in vivo. [68Ga]Ga-SMIC-3002 demonstrated high in vitro stability, nanomolar affinity for FAP (8 nM for protein, 23 nM for U87MG cells), and specific uptake in FAP-expressing tumors, with a tumor/muscle ratio of 19.1 and a tumor uptake of 1.48 ± 0.03 ID/g% at 0.5 h in U87MG tumor-bearing mice. In summary, the quinolinium scaffold can be successfully used for the development of the FAP-targeted tracer. [68Ga]Ga-SMIC-3002 not only shows high potential for clinical translation but also offers insights into designing a new generation of FAPI tracers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Li
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 201203, China
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Molecular Imaging Center, Drug Discovery and Design Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Rui Cao
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200235, China
| | - Kaixin Chen
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 201203, China
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Molecular Imaging Center, Drug Discovery and Design Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Chunrong Qu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Molecular Imaging Center, Drug Discovery and Design Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Kun Qian
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Molecular Imaging Center, Drug Discovery and Design Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jia Lin
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 201203, China
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Molecular Imaging Center, Drug Discovery and Design Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Renda Li
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, College of Life and Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110167, China
| | - Chaoquan Lai
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, College of Life and Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110167, China
| | - Xiao Wang
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Zijian Han
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Zhijian Xu
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Liping Zhou
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Shaoli Song
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Weiliang Zhu
- Drug Discovery and Design Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Zhen Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Molecular Imaging Center, Drug Discovery and Design Center, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China
- Shandong Laboratory of Yantai Drug Discovery, Bohai Rim Advanced Research Institute for Drug Discovery, Yantai 264117, Shandong, China
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Capp JP, Catania F, Thomas F. From genetic mosaicism to tumorigenesis through indirect genetic effects. Bioessays 2024; 46:e2300238. [PMID: 38736323 DOI: 10.1002/bies.202300238] [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: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
Genetic mosaicism has long been linked to aging, and several hypotheses have been proposed to explain the potential connections between mosaicism and susceptibility to cancer. It has been proposed that mosaicism may disrupt tissue homeostasis by affecting intercellular communications and releasing microenvironmental constraints within tissues. The underlying mechanisms driving these tissue-level influences remain unidentified, however. Here, we present an evolutionary perspective on the interplay between mosaicism and cancer, suggesting that the tissue-level impacts of genetic mosaicism can be attributed to Indirect Genetic Effects (IGEs). IGEs can increase the level of cellular stochasticity and phenotypic instability among adjacent cells, thereby elevating the risk of cancer development within the tissue. Moreover, as cells experience phenotypic changes in response to challenging microenvironmental conditions, these changes can initiate a cascade of nongenetic alterations, referred to as Indirect non-Genetic Effects (InGEs), which in turn catalyze IGEs among surrounding cells. We argue that incorporating both InGEs and IGEs into our understanding of the process of oncogenic transformation could trigger a major paradigm shift in cancer research with far-reaching implications for practical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Pascal Capp
- Toulouse Biotechnology Institute, INSA/University of Toulouse, CNRS, INRAE, Toulouse, France
| | - Francesco Catania
- Institute of Environmental Radioactivity, Fukushima University, Kanayagawa, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Frédéric Thomas
- CREEC, UMR IRD 224-CNRS 5290-University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
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Zhu H, Jin RU. The role of the fibroblast in Barrett's esophagus and esophageal adenocarcinoma. Curr Opin Gastroenterol 2024; 40:319-327. [PMID: 38626060 PMCID: PMC11155289 DOI: 10.1097/mog.0000000000001032] [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] [Indexed: 04/18/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Barrett's esophagus (BE) is the number one risk factor for developing esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC), a deadly cancer with limited treatment options that has been increasing in incidence in the US. In this report, we discuss current studies on the role of mesenchyme and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in BE and EAC, and we highlight translational prospects of targeting these cells. RECENT FINDINGS New insights through studies using single-cell RNA sequencing (sc-RNA seq) have revealed an important emerging role of the mesenchyme in developmental signaling and cancer initiation. BE and EAC share similar stromal gene expression, as functional classifications of nonepithelial cells in BE show a remarkable similarity to EAC CAFs. Several recent sc-RNA seq studies and novel organoid fibroblast co-culture systems have characterized the subgroups of fibroblasts in BE and EAC, and have shown that these cells can directly influence the epithelium to induce BE development and cancer progression. Targeting the CAFs in EAC with may be a promising novel therapeutic strategy. SUMMARY The fibroblasts in the surrounding mesenchyme may have a direct role in influencing altered epithelial plasticity during BE development and progression to EAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huili Zhu
- Section of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
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Rodríguez-Bejarano OH, Parra-López C, Patarroyo MA. A review concerning the breast cancer-related tumour microenvironment. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2024; 199:104389. [PMID: 38734280 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2024.104389] [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: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is currently the most common malignant tumour in women and one of the leading causes of their death around the world. New and increasingly personalised diagnostic and therapeutic tools have been introduced over the last few decades, along with significant advances regarding the study and knowledge related to BC. The tumour microenvironment (TME) refers to the tumour cell-associated cellular and molecular environment which can influence conditions affecting tumour development and progression. The TME is composed of immune cells, stromal cells, extracellular matrix (ECM) and signalling molecules secreted by these different cell types. Ever deeper understanding of TME composition changes during tumour development and progression will enable new and more innovative therapeutic strategies to become developed for targeting tumours during specific stages of its evolution. This review summarises the role of BC-related TME components and their influence on tumour progression and the development of resistance to therapy. In addition, an account on the modifications in BC-related TME components associated with therapy is given, and the completed or ongoing clinical trials related to this topic are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oscar Hernán Rodríguez-Bejarano
- Health Sciences Faculty, Universidad de Ciencias Aplicadas y Ambientales (U.D.C.A), Calle 222#55-37, Bogotá 111166, Colombia; Molecular Biology and Immunology Department, Fundación Instituto de Inmunología de Colombia (FIDIC), Carrera 50#26-20, Bogotá 111321, Colombia; PhD Programme in Biotechnology, Faculty of Sciences, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Carrera 45#26-85, Bogotá 111321, Colombia
| | - Carlos Parra-López
- Microbiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Carrera 45#26-85, Bogotá 111321, Colombia.
| | - Manuel Alfonso Patarroyo
- Molecular Biology and Immunology Department, Fundación Instituto de Inmunología de Colombia (FIDIC), Carrera 50#26-20, Bogotá 111321, Colombia; Microbiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Carrera 45#26-85, Bogotá 111321, Colombia.
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Peeters F, Cappuyns S, Piqué-Gili M, Phillips G, Verslype C, Lambrechts D, Dekervel J. Applications of single-cell multi-omics in liver cancer. JHEP Rep 2024; 6:101094. [PMID: 39022385 PMCID: PMC11252522 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2024.101094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Primary liver cancer, more specifically hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), remains a significant global health problem associated with increasing incidence and mortality. Clinical, biological, and molecular heterogeneity are well-known hallmarks of cancer and HCC is considered one of the most heterogeneous tumour types, displaying substantial inter-patient, intertumoural and intratumoural variability. This heterogeneity plays a pivotal role in hepatocarcinogenesis, metastasis, relapse and drug response or resistance. Unimodal single-cell sequencing techniques have already revolutionised our understanding of the different layers of molecular hierarchy in the tumour microenvironment of HCC. By highlighting the cellular heterogeneity and the intricate interactions among cancer, immune and stromal cells before and during treatment, these techniques have contributed to a deeper comprehension of tumour clonality, hematogenous spreading and the mechanisms of action of immune checkpoint inhibitors. However, major questions remain to be elucidated, with the identification of biomarkers predicting response or resistance to immunotherapy-based regimens representing an important unmet clinical need. Although the application of single-cell multi-omics in liver cancer research has been limited thus far, a revolution of individualised care for patients with HCC will only be possible by integrating various unimodal methods into multi-omics methodologies at the single-cell resolution. In this review, we will highlight the different established single-cell sequencing techniques and explore their biological and clinical impact on liver cancer research, while casting a glance at the future role of multi-omics in this dynamic and rapidly evolving field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederik Peeters
- Digestive Oncology, Department of Gastroenterology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Clinical Digestive Oncology, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory for Translational Genetics, Department of Human Genetics, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- VIB Centre for Cancer Biology, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sarah Cappuyns
- Digestive Oncology, Department of Gastroenterology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Clinical Digestive Oncology, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory for Translational Genetics, Department of Human Genetics, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- VIB Centre for Cancer Biology, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Marta Piqué-Gili
- Liver Cancer Translational Research Laboratory, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Hospital Clínic, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Gino Phillips
- Laboratory for Translational Genetics, Department of Human Genetics, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- VIB Centre for Cancer Biology, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Chris Verslype
- Digestive Oncology, Department of Gastroenterology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Clinical Digestive Oncology, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Diether Lambrechts
- Laboratory for Translational Genetics, Department of Human Genetics, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- VIB Centre for Cancer Biology, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jeroen Dekervel
- Digestive Oncology, Department of Gastroenterology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Clinical Digestive Oncology, Department of Oncology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Wang D, Dou L, Sui L, Xue Y, Xu S. Natural killer cells in cancer immunotherapy. MedComm (Beijing) 2024; 5:e626. [PMID: 38882209 PMCID: PMC11179524 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.626] [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: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells, as innate lymphocytes, possess cytotoxic capabilities and engage target cells through a repertoire of activating and inhibitory receptors. Particularly, natural killer group 2, member D (NKG2D) receptor on NK cells recognizes stress-induced ligands-the MHC class I chain-related molecules A and B (MICA/B) presented on tumor cells and is key to trigger the cytolytic response of NK cells. However, tumors have developed sophisticated strategies to evade NK cell surveillance, which lead to failure of tumor immunotherapy. In this paper, we summarized these immune escaping strategies, including the downregulation of ligands for activating receptors, upregulation of ligands for inhibitory receptors, secretion of immunosuppressive compounds, and the development of apoptosis resistance. Then, we focus on recent advancements in NK cell immune therapies, which include engaging activating NK cell receptors, upregulating NKG2D ligand MICA/B expression, blocking inhibitory NK cell receptors, adoptive NK cell therapy, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-engineered NK cells (CAR-NK), and NKG2D CAR-T cells, especially several vaccines targeting MICA/B. This review will inspire the research in NK cell biology in tumor and provide significant hope for improving cancer treatment outcomes by harnessing the potent cytotoxic activity of NK cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- DanRu Wang
- National Key Lab of Immunity and Inflammation and Institute of Immunology Naval Medical University Shanghai China
| | - LingYun Dou
- National Key Lab of Immunity and Inflammation and Institute of Immunology Naval Medical University Shanghai China
| | - LiHao Sui
- National Key Lab of Immunity and Inflammation and Institute of Immunology Naval Medical University Shanghai China
| | - Yiquan Xue
- National Key Lab of Immunity and Inflammation and Institute of Immunology Naval Medical University Shanghai China
| | - Sheng Xu
- National Key Lab of Immunity and Inflammation and Institute of Immunology Naval Medical University Shanghai China
- Shanghai Institute of Stem Cell Research and Clinical Translation Dongfang Hospital Shanghai China
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50
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Xu D, Zhuang X, Ma H, Li Z, Wei L, Luo J, Han H. Altered tumor microenvironment heterogeneity of penile cancer during progression from non-lymphatic to lymphatic metastasis. Cancer Med 2024; 13:e70025. [PMID: 39003681 PMCID: PMC11246611 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.70025] [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: 05/20/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/15/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lymphatic metastasis is the major challenge in the treatment of penile cancer. The prognosis of individuals with lymphatic metastasis is extremely poor. Therefore, early identification of disease progression and lymphatic metastasis is an urgent task for researchers in penile cancer worldwide. METHODS In this study, using single-cell RNA sequencing, an immune landscape was established for the cancer ecosystem based on 46,861 cells from six patients with penile cancer (four with lymphatic metastasis [stage IV] and two without lymphatic metastasis [stage I]). Using bulk RNA sequencing, the discrepancy between the cancers and their respective metastatic lymph nodes was depicted based on seven patients with penile cancer. RESULTS The interaction between epithelial cells, fibroblasts, and endothelial cells, and the functional cooperation among invasion, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and angiogenesis were found to be important landscapes in the penile cancer ecosystem, playing important roles in progression of cancer and lymph node metastasis. CONCLUSIONS This study is the first to investigate the altered tumor microenvironment heterogeneity of penile cancer as it evolves from non-lymphatic to lymphatic metastasis and provides insights into the mechanisms underlying malignant progression, the premetastatic niche, and lymphatic metastasis in penile cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Da‐Ming Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for CancerSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouP. R. China
- Department of UrologySun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouP. R. China
| | - Xiao‐Yu Zhuang
- Department of AnesthesiologySecond Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical CollegeShantouP. R. China
| | - Hua‐Li Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for CancerSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouP. R. China
- Department of RadiologySun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouP. R. China
| | - Zai‐Shang Li
- Department of Urology, Shenzhen People's HospitalThe Second Clinic Medical College of Jinan UniversityShenzhenP. R. China
| | - Li‐Chao Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for CancerSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouP. R. China
- Department of UrologySun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouP. R. China
| | - Jun‐Hang Luo
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouP. R. China
- Institute of Precision Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouP. R. China
| | - Hui Han
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for CancerSun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouP. R. China
- Department of UrologySun Yat‐sen University Cancer CenterGuangzhouP. R. China
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