1
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Ebrahim T, Ebrahim AS, Kandouz M. Diversity of Intercellular Communication Modes: A Cancer Biology Perspective. Cells 2024; 13:495. [PMID: 38534339 DOI: 10.3390/cells13060495] [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: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
From the moment a cell is on the path to malignant transformation, its interaction with other cells from the microenvironment becomes altered. The flow of molecular information is at the heart of the cellular and systemic fate in tumors, and various processes participate in conveying key molecular information from or to certain cancer cells. For instance, the loss of tight junction molecules is part of the signal sent to cancer cells so that they are no longer bound to the primary tumors and are thus free to travel and metastasize. Upon the targeting of a single cell by a therapeutic drug, gap junctions are able to communicate death information to by-standing cells. The discovery of the importance of novel modes of cell-cell communication such as different types of extracellular vesicles or tunneling nanotubes is changing the way scientists look at these processes. However, are they all actively involved in different contexts at the same time or are they recruited to fulfill specific tasks? What does the multiplicity of modes mean for the overall progression of the disease? Here, we extend an open invitation to think about the overall significance of these questions, rather than engage in an elusive attempt at a systematic repertory of the mechanisms at play.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thanzeela Ebrahim
- Department of Pathology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| | - Abdul Shukkur Ebrahim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Visual and Anatomical Sciences, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| | - Mustapha Kandouz
- Department of Pathology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
- Karmanos Cancer Institute, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
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2
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Halász H, Szatmári Z, Kovács K, Koppán M, Papp S, Szabó-Meleg E, Szatmári D. Changes of Ex Vivo Cervical Epithelial Cells Due to Electroporation with JMY. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16863. [PMID: 38069185 PMCID: PMC10706833 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242316863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The ionic environment within the nucleoplasm might diverge from the conditions found in the cytoplasm, potentially playing a role in the cellular stress response. As a result, it is conceivable that interactions of nuclear actin and actin-binding proteins (ABPs) with apoptosis factors may differ in the nucleoplasm and cytoplasm. The primary intracellular stress response is Ca2+ influx. The junctional mediating and regulating Y protein (JMY) is an actin-binding protein and has the capability to interact with the apoptosis factor p53 in a Ca2+-dependent manner, forming complexes that play a regulatory role in cytoskeletal remodelling and motility. JMY's presence is observed in both the cytoplasm and nucleoplasm. Here, we show that ex vivo ectocervical squamous cells subjected to electroporation with JMY protein exhibited varying morphological alterations. Specifically, the highly differentiated superficial and intermediate cells displayed reduced nuclear size. In inflamed samples, nuclear enlargement and simultaneous cytoplasmic reduction were observable and showed signs of apoptotic processes. In contrast, the less differentiated parabasal and metaplastic cells showed increased cytoplasmic activity and the formation of membrane protrusions. Surprisingly, in severe inflammation, vaginosis or ASC-US (Atypical Squamous Cells of Undetermined Significance), JMY appears to influence only the nuclear and perinuclear irregularities of differentiated cells, and cytoplasmic abnormalities still existed after the electroporation. Our observations can provide an appropriate basis for the exploration of the relationship between cytopathologically relevant morphological changes of epithelial cells and the function of ABPs. This is particularly important since ABPs are considered potential diagnostic and therapeutic biomarkers for both cancers and chronic inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henriett Halász
- Department of Biophysics, Medical School, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (H.H.); (E.S.-M.)
| | | | - Krisztina Kovács
- Department of Pathology, Medical School, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary;
| | | | - Szilárd Papp
- DaVinci Clinics, 7635 Pécs, Hungary; (M.K.); (S.P.)
| | - Edina Szabó-Meleg
- Department of Biophysics, Medical School, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (H.H.); (E.S.-M.)
| | - Dávid Szatmári
- Department of Biophysics, Medical School, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (H.H.); (E.S.-M.)
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3
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Melwani PK, Pandey BN. Tunneling nanotubes: The intercellular conduits contributing to cancer pathogenesis and its therapy. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2023; 1878:189028. [PMID: 37993000 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2023.189028] [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: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) are intercellular conduits which meet the communication needs of non-adjacent cells situated in the same tissue but at distances up to a few hundred microns. TNTs are unique type of membrane protrusion which contain F-actin and freely hover over substratum in the extracellular space to connect the distant cells. TNTs, known to form through actin remodeling mechanisms, are intercellular bridges that connect cytoplasm of two cells, and facilitate the transfer of organelles, molecules, and pathogens among the cells. In tumor microenvironment, TNTs act as communication channel among cancer, normal, and immune cells to facilitate the transfer of calcium waves, mitochondria, lysosomes, and proteins, which in turn contribute to the survival, metastasis, and chemo-resistance in cancer cells. Recently, TNTs were shown to mediate the transfer of nanoparticles, drugs, and viruses between cells, suggesting that TNTs could be exploited as a potential route for delivery of anti-cancer agents and oncolytic viruses to the target cells. The present review discusses the emerging concepts and role of TNTs in the context of chemo- and radio-resistance with implications in the cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pooja Kamal Melwani
- Radiation Biology & Health Sciences Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai 400085, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, Anushakti Nagar, Mumbai 400094, India
| | - Badri Narain Pandey
- Radiation Biology & Health Sciences Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai 400085, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, Anushakti Nagar, Mumbai 400094, India.
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4
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Simone L, Capobianco DL, Di Palma F, Binda E, Legnani FG, Vescovi AL, Svelto M, Pisani F. GFAP serves as a structural element of tunneling nanotubes between glioblastoma cells and could play a role in the intercellular transfer of mitochondria. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1221671. [PMID: 37886397 PMCID: PMC10598779 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1221671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) are long F-actin-positive plasma membrane bridges connecting distant cells, allowing the intercellular transfer of cellular cargoes, and are found to be involved in glioblastoma (GBM) intercellular crosstalk. Glial fibrillary acid protein (GFAP) is a key intermediate filament protein of glial cells involved in cytoskeleton remodeling and linked to GBM progression. Whether GFAP plays a role in TNT structure and function in GBM is unknown. Here, analyzing F-actin and GFAP localization by laser-scan confocal microscopy followed by 3D reconstruction (3D-LSCM) and mitochondria dynamic by live-cell time-lapse fluorescence microscopy, we show the presence of GFAP in TNTs containing functional mitochondria connecting distant human GBM cells. Taking advantage of super-resolution 3D-LSCM, we show the presence of GFAP-positive TNT-like structures in resected human GBM as well. Using H2O2 or the pro-apoptotic toxin staurosporine (STS), we show that GFAP-positive TNTs strongly increase during oxidative stress and apoptosis in the GBM cell line. Culturing GBM cells with STS-treated GBM cells, we show that STS triggers the formation of GFAP-positive TNTs between them. Finally, we provide evidence that mitochondria co-localize with GFAP at the tip of close-ended GFAP-positive TNTs and inside receiving STS-GBM cells. Summarizing, here we found that GFAP is a structural component of TNTs generated by GBM cells, that GFAP-positive TNTs are upregulated in response to oxidative stress and pro-apoptotic stress, and that GFAP interacts with mitochondria during the intercellular transfer. These findings contribute to elucidate the molecular structure of TNTs generated by GBM cells, highlighting the structural role of GFAP in TNTs and suggesting a functional role of this intermediate filament component in the intercellular mitochondria transfer between GBM cells in response to pro-apoptotic stimuli.
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Affiliation(s)
- L. Simone
- Cancer Stem Cells Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - D. L. Capobianco
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Environment, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Bari, Italy
| | - F. Di Palma
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Environment, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Bari, Italy
| | - E. Binda
- Cancer Stem Cells Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - F. G. Legnani
- Department of Neurosurgery, National Neurologic Institute IRCCS Besta, Milan, Italy
| | - A. L. Vescovi
- Cellular Reprogramming Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - M. Svelto
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Environment, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Bari, Italy
- Institute of Biomembranes and Bioenergetics, National Research Council, Bari, Italy
- National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems (INBB), Rome, Italy
| | - F. Pisani
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Environment, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Bari, Italy
- Center for Synaptic Neuroscience and Technology, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy
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5
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Awanis G, Banerjee S, Johnson R, Raveenthiraraj S, Elmeligy A, Warren D, Gavrilovic J, Sobolewski A. HGF/c-Met/β1-integrin signalling axis induces tunneling nanotubes in A549 lung adenocarcinoma cells. Life Sci Alliance 2023; 6:e202301953. [PMID: 37550007 PMCID: PMC10427768 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.202301953] [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: 01/26/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) are thin cytoplasmic extensions involved in long-distance intercellular communication and can transport intracellular organelles and signalling molecules. In cancer cells, TNT formation contributes to cell survival, chemoresistance, and malignancy. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying TNT formation are not well defined, especially in different cancers. TNTs are present in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients with adenocarcinoma. In NSCLC, hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and its receptor, c-Met, are mutationally upregulated, causing increased cancer cell growth, survival, and invasion. This study identifies c-Met, β1-integrin, and paxillin as novel components of TNTs in A549 lung adenocarcinoma cells, with paxillin localised at the protrusion site of TNTs. The HGF-induced TNTs in our study demonstrate the ability to transport lipid vesicles and mitochondria. HGF-induced TNT formation is mediated by c-Met and β1-integrin in conjunction with paxillin, followed by downstream activation of MAPK and PI3K pathways and the Arp2/3 complex. These findings demonstrate a potential novel approach to inhibit TNT formation through targeting HGF/c-Met receptor and β1-integrin signalling interactions, which has implications for multi-drug targeting in NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Robert Johnson
- School of Pharmacy, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | | | - Aya Elmeligy
- School of Pharmacy, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - Derek Warren
- School of Pharmacy, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - Jelena Gavrilovic
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
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6
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Cooke M, Zhang S, Cornejo Maciel F, Kazanietz MG. Gi/o GPCRs drive the formation of actin-rich tunneling nanotubes in cancer cells via a Gβγ/PKCα/FARP1/Cdc42 axis. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:104983. [PMID: 37390986 PMCID: PMC10374973 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.104983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The functional association between stimulation of G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) by eicosanoids and actin cytoskeleton reorganization remains largely unexplored. Using a model of human adrenocortical cancer cells, here we established that activation of the GPCR OXER1 by its natural agonist, the eicosanoid 5-oxo-eicosatetraenoic acid, leads to the formation of filopodia-like elongated projections connecting adjacent cells, known as tunneling nanotube (TNT)-like structures. This effect is reduced by pertussis toxin and GUE1654, a biased antagonist for the Gβγ pathway downstream of OXER1 activation. We also observed pertussis toxin-dependent TNT biogenesis in response to lysophosphatidic acid, indicative of a general response driven by Gi/o-coupled GPCRs. TNT generation by either 5-oxo-eicosatetraenoic acid or lysophosphatidic acid is partially dependent on the transactivation of the epidermal growth factor receptor and impaired by phosphoinositide 3-kinase inhibition. Subsequent signaling analysis reveals a strict requirement of phospholipase C β3 and its downstream effector protein kinase Cα. Consistent with the established role of Rho small GTPases in the formation of actin-rich projecting structures, we identified the phosphoinositide 3-kinase-regulated guanine nucleotide exchange factor FARP1 as a GPCR effector essential for TNT formation, acting via Cdc42. Altogether, our study pioneers a link between Gi/o-coupled GPCRs and TNT development and sheds light into the intricate signaling pathways governing the generation of specialized actin-rich elongated structures in response to bioactive signaling lipids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Cooke
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.
| | - Suli Zhang
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Fabiana Cornejo Maciel
- Departament of Human Biochemistry, School of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina; INBIOMED, CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Marcelo G Kazanietz
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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7
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Mulchandani V, Banerjee A, Vadlamannati AV, Kumar S, Das Sarma J. Connexin 43 trafficking and regulation of gap junctional intercellular communication alters ovarian cancer cell migration and tumorigenesis. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 159:114296. [PMID: 36701988 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114296] [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: 10/29/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer persists to be the most lethal gynecological malignancy, demanding rigorous treatments involving radio-chemotherapy that trigger toxicity and consequently mortality among patients. An improved understanding of the disease progression may pioneer curative therapies. Mouse epithelial ovarian cancer cell lines, ID8 and ID8-VEGF (overexpressing VEGF) were intraperitoneally injected in C57BL/6 female mice to develop a Syngeneic Ovarian cancer mouse model. It was observed that ID8-VEGF cells were able to induce aggressive tumor growth in mice compared to ID8 cells. Furthermore, results of the current in vitro study comparing ID8 and ID8-VEGF demonstrated that highly tumorigenic ID8-VEGF had reduced gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC) due to intracellular Connexin 43 (Cx43) expression. Additionally, ID8 cells with reduced tumorigenic capability expressed significant GJIC. Furthermore, loss of GJIC in ID8-VEGF cells induced shorter tunneling nanotube formations, while ID8 cells develops longer tunneling nanotube to maintain cellular crosstalk. The administration of a pharmacological drug 4-phenylbutyrate (4PBA) ensured the restoration of GJIC in both the ovarian cancer cell lines. Additionally, 4PBA treatment significantly inhibited the migration of ovarian cancer cell lines and tumor formation in ovarian cancer mice models. In summary, the 4PBA-mediated restoration of GJIC suppressed migration (in vitro) and tumorigenesis (in vivo) of ovarian cancer cells. The present study suggests that Cx43 assembled GJIC and its supportive signaling pathways are a prospective target for restricting ovarian cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vaishali Mulchandani
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Kolkata, Mohanpur 741246, India
| | - Anurag Banerjee
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Kolkata, Mohanpur 741246, India
| | - Arunima Vijaya Vadlamannati
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Kolkata, Mohanpur 741246, India
| | - Saurav Kumar
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Kolkata, Mohanpur 741246, India
| | - Jayasri Das Sarma
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Kolkata, Mohanpur 741246, India; Department of Ophthalmology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA.
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8
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Jo Y, Yim D, Park CE, Yong I, Lee J, Cho W, Ahn KH, Yang C, Chang JB, Park YG, Kim TS, Kim T, Kim P. Bi-directional crosstalk between cells and extracellular matrix leads to network morphogenesis in multi-layered tissues. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-2294818. [PMID: 36778230 PMCID: PMC9915997 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-2294818/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Cell-generated mechanical forces drive many cellular and tissue-level movements and rearrangements required for the tissue or organ to develop its shape1, 2, 3, 4, 5. The prevalent view of tissue morphogenesis relies on epithelial folding resulting in compressed epithelial monolayers, overlooking the involvement of stroma in morphogenesis1, 4, 6, 7. Here, we report a giant web-like network formation of stromal cells in the epithelium-stroma interface, resulting from a multi-scale mechano-reciprocity between migrating cells and their extracellular environment. In multi-layered tissues, surface wrinkles form by a stromal cell-mediated tensional force exerted at the basement membrane. The topographical cue is transmitted to the stromal cell, directing its protrusion and migration along the wrinkles. This inductive movement of the cells conveys traction forces to its surrounding extracellular matrix, remodeling the local architectures of the stroma. In this manner, stromal cells and wrinkles communicate recursively to generate the cellular network. Our observation provides a rational mechanism for network formation in living tissues and a new understanding of the role of cellular-level tensional force in morphogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youngmin Jo
- Department of Bio and Braine Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon 34141, South Korea
| | - Donghyun Yim
- Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Chan E Park
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, KAIST, Daejeon 305-701, Korea
| | - Insung Yong
- Department of Bio and Braine Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon 34141, South Korea
| | - Jongbeom Lee
- Department of Bio and Braine Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon 34141, South Korea
| | - Wonjin Cho
- Department of Bio and Braine Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon 34141, South Korea
| | - Kwang Ho Ahn
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, KAIST, Daejeon 305-701, Korea
| | - Chanhee Yang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, KAIST, Daejeon 305-701, Korea
| | - Jae-Byum Chang
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, KAIST, Daejeon 305-701, Korea
| | - Young-Gyun Park
- Department of Bio and Braine Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon 34141, South Korea
| | - Taek-Soo Kim
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, KAIST, Daejeon 305-701, Korea
| | - Taeyoon Kim
- Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Pilnam Kim
- Department of Bio and Braine Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon 34141, South Korea
- Institute for Health Science and Technology, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon 34141, South Korea
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9
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Zhang F, Biswas M, Massah S, Lee J, Lingadahalli S, Wong S, Wells C, Foo J, Khan N, Morin H, Saxena N, Kung SY, Sun B, Parra Nuñez A, Sanchez C, Chan N, Ung L, Altıntaş U, Bui J, Wang Y, Fazli L, Oo H, Rennie P, Lack N, Cherkasov A, Gleave M, Gsponer J, Lallous N. Dynamic phase separation of the androgen receptor and its coactivators key to regulate gene expression. Nucleic Acids Res 2022; 51:99-116. [PMID: 36535377 PMCID: PMC9841400 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac1158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2022] [Revised: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous cancers, including prostate cancer (PCa), are addicted to transcription programs driven by specific genomic regions known as super-enhancers (SEs). The robust transcription of genes at such SEs is enabled by the formation of phase-separated condensates by transcription factors and coactivators with intrinsically disordered regions. The androgen receptor (AR), the main oncogenic driver in PCa, contains large disordered regions and is co-recruited with the transcriptional coactivator mediator complex subunit 1 (MED1) to SEs in androgen-dependent PCa cells, thereby promoting oncogenic transcriptional programs. In this work, we reveal that full-length AR forms foci with liquid-like properties in different PCa models. We demonstrate that foci formation correlates with AR transcriptional activity, as this activity can be modulated by changing cellular foci content chemically or by silencing MED1. AR ability to phase separate was also validated in vitro by using recombinant full-length AR protein. We also demonstrate that AR antagonists, which suppress transcriptional activity by targeting key regions for homotypic or heterotypic interactions of this receptor, hinder foci formation in PCa cells and phase separation in vitro. Our results suggest that enhanced compartmentalization of AR and coactivators may play an important role in the activation of oncogenic transcription programs in androgen-dependent PCa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Zhang
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, 2660 Oak St., Vancouver, BC V6H 3Z6, Canada
| | | | | | - Joseph Lee
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, 2660 Oak St., Vancouver, BC V6H 3Z6, Canada
| | - Shreyas Lingadahalli
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, 2660 Oak St., Vancouver, BC V6H 3Z6, Canada
| | - Samantha Wong
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, 2660 Oak St., Vancouver, BC V6H 3Z6, Canada
| | - Christopher Wells
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, 2660 Oak St., Vancouver, BC V6H 3Z6, Canada
| | - Jane Foo
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, 2660 Oak St., Vancouver, BC V6H 3Z6, Canada
| | - Nabeel Khan
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, 2660 Oak St., Vancouver, BC V6H 3Z6, Canada
| | - Helene Morin
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, 2660 Oak St., Vancouver, BC V6H 3Z6, Canada
| | - Neetu Saxena
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, 2660 Oak St., Vancouver, BC V6H 3Z6, Canada
| | - Sonia H Y Kung
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, 2660 Oak St., Vancouver, BC V6H 3Z6, Canada
| | - Bei Sun
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, 2660 Oak St., Vancouver, BC V6H 3Z6, Canada
| | - Ana Karla Parra Nuñez
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, 2660 Oak St., Vancouver, BC V6H 3Z6, Canada
| | - Christophe Sanchez
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, 2660 Oak St., Vancouver, BC V6H 3Z6, Canada
| | - Novia Chan
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, 2660 Oak St., Vancouver, BC V6H 3Z6, Canada
| | - Lauren Ung
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, 2660 Oak St., Vancouver, BC V6H 3Z6, Canada
| | - Umut Berkay Altıntaş
- School of Medicine, Koç University, Rumelifeneri Yolu, Istanbul 34450, Turkey,Koç University Research Centre for Translational Medicine (KUTTAM), Koç University, Rumelifeneri Yolu, Istanbul 34450, Turkey
| | - Jennifer M Bui
- Michael Smith Laboratories, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Yuzhuo Wang
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, 2660 Oak St., Vancouver, BC V6H 3Z6, Canada
| | - Ladan Fazli
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, 2660 Oak St., Vancouver, BC V6H 3Z6, Canada
| | - Htoo Zarni Oo
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, 2660 Oak St., Vancouver, BC V6H 3Z6, Canada
| | - Paul S Rennie
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, 2660 Oak St., Vancouver, BC V6H 3Z6, Canada
| | - Nathan A Lack
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, 2660 Oak St., Vancouver, BC V6H 3Z6, Canada,School of Medicine, Koç University, Rumelifeneri Yolu, Istanbul 34450, Turkey,Koç University Research Centre for Translational Medicine (KUTTAM), Koç University, Rumelifeneri Yolu, Istanbul 34450, Turkey
| | - Artem Cherkasov
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, 2660 Oak St., Vancouver, BC V6H 3Z6, Canada
| | - Martin E Gleave
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, 2660 Oak St., Vancouver, BC V6H 3Z6, Canada
| | - Jörg Gsponer
- Correspondence may also be addressed to Jörg Gsponer.
| | - Nada Lallous
- To whom correspondence should be addressed. Tel: +1 604 875 4111; Fax: +1 604 875 5654;
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10
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Resnik N, Baraga D, Glažar P, Jokhadar Zemljič Š, Derganc J, Sepčić K, Veranič P, Kreft ME. Molecular, morphological and functional properties of tunnelling nanotubes between normal and cancer urothelial cells: New insights from the in vitro model mimicking the situation after surgical removal of the urothelial tumor. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:934684. [PMID: 36601539 PMCID: PMC9806176 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.934684] [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: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Tunnelling nanotubes (TNTs) are membranous connections that represent a unique type of intercellular communication in different cell types. They are associated with cell physiology and cancer pathology. The possible existence of tunnelling nanotubes communication between urothelial cancer and normal cells has not yet been elucidated. Therefore, we analyzed TNTs formed by T24 cells (human invasive cancer urothelial cells) and normal porcine urothelial (NPU) cells, which serve as surrogate models for healthy human urothelial cells. Monocultures and cocultures of NPU and T24 cells were established and analyzed using live-cell imaging, optical tweezers, fluorescence microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. TNTs of NPU cells differed significantly from tunnelling nanotubes of T24 cells in number, length, diameter, lipid composition, and elastic properties. Membrane domains enriched in cholesterol/sphingomyelin were present in tunnelling nanotubes of T24 cells but not in NPU cells. The tunnelling nanotubes in T24 cells were also easier to bend than the tunnelling nanotubes in NPU cells. The tunnelling nanotubes of both cell types were predominantly tricytoskeletal, and contained actin filaments, intermediate filaments, and microtubules, as well as the motor proteins myosin Va, dynein, and kinesin 5B. Mitochondria were transported within tunnelling nanotubes in living cells, and were colocalized with microtubules and the microtubule-associated protein dynamin 2. In cocultures, heterocellular tunnelling nanotubes were formed between NPU cells and T24 cells and vice versa. The presence of connexin 43 at the end of urothelial tunnelling nanotubes suggests a junctional connection and the involvement of tunnelling nanotube in signal transduction. In this study, we established a novel urothelial cancer-normal coculture model and showed cells in the minority tend to form tunnelling nanotubes with cells in the majority. The condition with cancer cells in the minority is an attractive model to mimic the situation after surgical resection with remaining cancer cells and may help to understand cancer progression and recurrence. Our results shed light on the biological activity of tunnelling nanotubes and have the potential to advance the search for anticancer drugs that target tunnelling nanotubes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nataša Resnik
- Institute of Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Diana Baraga
- Institute of Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Polona Glažar
- Institute of Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Špela Jokhadar Zemljič
- Institute of Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Jure Derganc
- Institute of Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Kristina Sepčić
- Department of Biology, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Peter Veranič
- Institute of Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Mateja Erdani Kreft
- Institute of Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia,*Correspondence: Mateja Erdani Kreft,
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11
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Jang G, Oh J, Jun E, Lee J, Kwon JY, Kim J, Lee SH, Kim SC, Cho SY, Lee C. Direct cell-to-cell transfer in stressed tumor microenvironment aggravates tumorigenic or metastatic potential in pancreatic cancer. NPJ Genom Med 2022; 7:63. [PMID: 36302783 PMCID: PMC9613679 DOI: 10.1038/s41525-022-00333-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer exhibits a characteristic tumor microenvironment (TME) due to enhanced fibrosis and hypoxia and is particularly resistant to conventional chemotherapy. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying TME-associated treatment resistance in pancreatic cancer are not fully understood. Here, we developed an in vitro TME mimic system comprising pancreatic cancer cells, fibroblasts and immune cells, and a stress condition, including hypoxia and gemcitabine. Cells with high viability under stress showed evidence of increased direct cell-to-cell transfer of biomolecules. The resulting derivative cells (CD44high/SLC16A1high) were similar to cancer stem cell-like-cells (CSCs) with enhanced anchorage-independent growth or invasiveness and acquired metabolic reprogramming. Furthermore, CD24 was a determinant for transition between the tumorsphere formation or invasive properties. Pancreatic cancer patients with CD44low/SLC16A1low expression exhibited better prognoses compared to other groups. Our results suggest that crosstalk via direct cell-to-cell transfer of cellular components foster chemotherapy-induced tumor evolution and that targeting of CD44 and MCT1(encoded by SLC16A1) may be useful strategy to prevent recurrence of gemcitabine-exposed pancreatic cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giyong Jang
- Department of Life Science, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, 03760, Republic of Korea.,Ewha-JAX Cancer Immunotherapy Research Center, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, 03760, Republic of Korea.,Medical Research Center, Genomic Medicine Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaeik Oh
- Department of Translational Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea.,Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunsung Jun
- Department of Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, Republic of Korea.,Asan Medical Institute of Convergence Science and Technology (AMIST), Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, Republic of Korea.,Department of Convergence Medicine, Asan Institute for Life Sciences, University of Ulsan College of Medicine and Asan Medical Center, Seoul, 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Jieun Lee
- Department of Life Science, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, 03760, Republic of Korea.,Ewha-JAX Cancer Immunotherapy Research Center, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, 03760, Republic of Korea.,Department of Surgery, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Gyeonggi-do, 13620, Republic of Korea
| | - Jee Young Kwon
- Department of Life Science, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, 03760, Republic of Korea.,Ewha-JAX Cancer Immunotherapy Research Center, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, 03760, Republic of Korea.,The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT, 06032, USA
| | - Jaesang Kim
- Department of Life Science, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, 03760, Republic of Korea.,Ewha-JAX Cancer Immunotherapy Research Center, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, 03760, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Hyuk Lee
- Department of Life Science, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, 03760, Republic of Korea.,Ewha-JAX Cancer Immunotherapy Research Center, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, 03760, Republic of Korea.,Department of Bio-Information Science, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, 03760, Republic of Korea
| | - Song Cheol Kim
- Department of Surgery, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, Republic of Korea.,Asan Medical Institute of Convergence Science and Technology (AMIST), Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Seoul, 05505, Republic of Korea.,Department of Convergence Medicine, Asan Institute for Life Sciences, University of Ulsan College of Medicine and Asan Medical Center, Seoul, 05505, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Yup Cho
- Medical Research Center, Genomic Medicine Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea. .,Department of Translational Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea. .,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea. .,Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea.
| | - Charles Lee
- Department of Life Science, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, 03760, Republic of Korea. .,Ewha-JAX Cancer Immunotherapy Research Center, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, 03760, Republic of Korea. .,The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine, Farmington, CT, 06032, USA.
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12
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Luchetti F, Carloni S, Nasoni MG, Reiter RJ, Balduini W. Tunneling nanotubes and mesenchymal stem cells: New insights into the role of melatonin in neuronal recovery. J Pineal Res 2022; 73:e12800. [PMID: 35419879 PMCID: PMC9540876 DOI: 10.1111/jpi.12800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Efficient cell-to-cell communication is essential for tissue development, homeostasis, and the maintenance of cellular functions after injury. Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) have emerged as a new important method of cell-to-cell communication. TNTs are primarily established between stressed and unstressed cells and can transport a variety of cellular components. Mitochondria are important trafficked entities through TNTs. Transcellular mitochondria transfer permits the incorporation of healthy mitochondria into the endogenous network of recipient cells, changing the bioenergetic profile and other functional properties of the recipient and may allow the recipient cells to recuperate from apoptotic processes and return to a normal operating state. Mesenchymal cells (MSCs) can form TNTs and transfer mitochondria and other constituents to target cells. This occurs under both physiological and pathological conditions, leading to changes in cellular energy metabolism and functions. This review summarizes the newly described capacity of melatonin to improve mitochondrial fusion/fission dynamics and promote TNT formation. This new evidence suggests that melatonin's protective effects could be attributed to its ability to prevent mitochondrial damage in injured cells, reduce senescence, and promote anastasis, a natural cell recovery phenomenon that rescues cells from the brink of death. The modulation of these new routes of intercellular communication by melatonin could play a key role in increasing the therapeutic potential of MSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Luchetti
- Department of Biomolecular SciencesUniversity of Urbino Carlo BoUrbinoItaly
| | - Silvia Carloni
- Department of Biomolecular SciencesUniversity of Urbino Carlo BoUrbinoItaly
| | - Maria G. Nasoni
- Department of Biomolecular SciencesUniversity of Urbino Carlo BoUrbinoItaly
| | - Russel J. Reiter
- Department of Cell Systems and AnatomyLong School of Medicine, UT HealthSan AntonioTexasUSA
| | - Walter Balduini
- Department of Biomolecular SciencesUniversity of Urbino Carlo BoUrbinoItaly
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13
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Venkataramani V, Schneider M, Giordano FA, Kuner T, Wick W, Herrlinger U, Winkler F. Disconnecting multicellular networks in brain tumours. Nat Rev Cancer 2022; 22:481-491. [PMID: 35488036 DOI: 10.1038/s41568-022-00475-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Cancer cells can organize and communicate in functional networks. Similarly to other networks in biology and sociology, these can be highly relevant for growth and resilience. In this Perspective, we demonstrate by the example of glioblastomas and other incurable brain tumours how versatile multicellular tumour networks are formed by two classes of long intercellular membrane protrusions: tumour microtubes and tunnelling nanotubes. The resulting networks drive tumour growth and resistance to standard therapies. This raises the question of how to disconnect brain tumour networks to halt tumour growth and whether this can make established therapies more effective. Emerging principles of tumour networks, their potential relevance for tumour types outside the brain and translational implications, including clinical trials that are already based on these discoveries, are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varun Venkataramani
- Neurology Clinic, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.
- National Center for Tumour Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Neurooncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.
- Department of Functional Neuroanatomy, Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany.
| | | | - Frank Anton Giordano
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Bonn, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Thomas Kuner
- Department of Functional Neuroanatomy, Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Wick
- Neurology Clinic, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- National Center for Tumour Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Neurooncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ulrich Herrlinger
- Division of Clinical Neurooncology, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Bonn, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany.
| | - Frank Winkler
- Neurology Clinic, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.
- National Center for Tumour Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Neurooncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.
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14
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Nahacka Z, Novak J, Zobalova R, Neuzil J. Miro proteins and their role in mitochondrial transfer in cancer and beyond. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:937753. [PMID: 35959487 PMCID: PMC9358137 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.937753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria are organelles essential for tumor cell proliferation and metastasis. Although their main cellular function, generation of energy in the form of ATP is dispensable for cancer cells, their capability to drive their adaptation to stress originating from tumor microenvironment makes them a plausible therapeutic target. Recent research has revealed that cancer cells with damaged oxidative phosphorylation import healthy (functional) mitochondria from surrounding stromal cells to drive pyrimidine synthesis and cell proliferation. Furthermore, it has been shown that energetically competent mitochondria are fundamental for tumor cell migration, invasion and metastasis. The spatial positioning and transport of mitochondria involves Miro proteins from a subfamily of small GTPases, localized in outer mitochondrial membrane. Miro proteins are involved in the structure of the MICOS complex, connecting outer and inner-mitochondrial membrane; in mitochondria-ER communication; Ca2+ metabolism; and in the recycling of damaged organelles via mitophagy. The most important role of Miro is regulation of mitochondrial movement and distribution within (and between) cells, acting as an adaptor linking organelles to cytoskeleton-associated motor proteins. In this review, we discuss the function of Miro proteins in various modes of intercellular mitochondrial transfer, emphasizing the structure and dynamics of tunneling nanotubes, the most common transfer modality. We summarize the evidence for and propose possible roles of Miro proteins in nanotube-mediated transfer as well as in cancer cell migration and metastasis, both processes being tightly connected to cytoskeleton-driven mitochondrial movement and positioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuzana Nahacka
- Laboratory of Molecular Therapy, Institute of Biotechnology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czechia
- *Correspondence: Zuzana Nahacka, ; Jiri Neuzil,
| | - Jaromir Novak
- Laboratory of Molecular Therapy, Institute of Biotechnology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czechia
- Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Renata Zobalova
- Laboratory of Molecular Therapy, Institute of Biotechnology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czechia
| | - Jiri Neuzil
- Laboratory of Molecular Therapy, Institute of Biotechnology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czechia
- School of Pharmacy and Medical Science, Griffith University, Southport, QLD, Australia
- *Correspondence: Zuzana Nahacka, ; Jiri Neuzil,
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15
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Fu Z, Yuan Y. The role of tumor neogenesis pipelines in tumor progression and their therapeutic potential. Cancer Med 2022; 12:1558-1571. [PMID: 35832030 PMCID: PMC9883577 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.4979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Pipeline formation between tumor cells and the tumor microenvironment (TME) is a key event leading to tumor progression. These pipelines include blood vessels, lymphatics, and membranous vessels (the former two can be collectively referred to as vasculature). Pipeline regeneration is a feature of all solid tumors; it delivers nutrients to tumors and promotes tumor invasion and metastasis such that cancer cells grow rapidly, escape unfavorable TME, spread to secondary sites, generate tumor drug resistance, and promote postoperative tumor recurrence. Novel tumor therapy strategies must exploit the molecular mechanisms underpinning these pipelines to facilitate more targeted drug therapies. In this review, pipeline generation, influencing factors, pipeline functions during tumor progression, and pipeline potential as drug targets are systematically summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhanqi Fu
- Tumor Etiology and Screening Department of Cancer Institute and General SurgeryThe First Hospital of China Medical UniversityShenyangChina,Key Laboratory of Cancer Etiology and Prevention in Liaoning Education DepartmentThe First Hospital of China Medical UniversityShenyangChina,Key Laboratory of GI Cancer Etiology and Prevention in Liaoning ProvinceThe First Hospital of China Medical UniversityShenyangChina
| | - Yuan Yuan
- Tumor Etiology and Screening Department of Cancer Institute and General SurgeryThe First Hospital of China Medical UniversityShenyangChina,Key Laboratory of Cancer Etiology and Prevention in Liaoning Education DepartmentThe First Hospital of China Medical UniversityShenyangChina,Key Laboratory of GI Cancer Etiology and Prevention in Liaoning ProvinceThe First Hospital of China Medical UniversityShenyangChina
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16
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Turos-Korgul L, Kolba MD, Chroscicki P, Zieminska A, Piwocka K. Tunneling Nanotubes Facilitate Intercellular Protein Transfer and Cell Networks Function. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:915117. [PMID: 35903550 PMCID: PMC9314668 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.915117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The past decade witnessed a huge interest in the communication machinery called tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) which is a novel, contact-dependent type of intercellular protein transfer (IPT). As the IPT phenomenon plays a particular role in the cross-talk between cells, including cancer cells as well as in the immune and nervous systems, it therefore participates in remodeling of the cellular networks. The following review focuses on the placing the role of tunneling nanotube-mediated protein transfer between distant cells. Firstly, we describe different screening methods used to study IPT including tunneling nanotubes. Further, we present various examples of TNT-mediated protein transfer in the immune system, cancer microenvironment and in the nervous system, with particular attention to the methods used to verify the transfer of individual proteins.
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17
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Hönigova K, Navratil J, Peltanova B, Polanska HH, Raudenska M, Masarik M. Metabolic tricks of cancer cells. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2022; 1877:188705. [PMID: 35276232 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2022.188705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
One of the characteristics of cancer cells important for tumorigenesis is their metabolic plasticity. Indeed, in various stress conditions, cancer cells can reshape their metabolic pathways to support the increased energy request due to continuous growth and rapid proliferation. Moreover, selective pressures in the tumor microenvironment, such as hypoxia, acidosis, and competition for resources, force cancer cells to adapt by complete reorganization of their metabolism. In this review, we highlight the characteristics of cancer metabolism and discuss its clinical significance, since overcoming metabolic plasticity of cancer cells is a key objective of modern cancer therapeutics and a better understanding of metabolic reprogramming may lead to the identification of possible targets for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katerina Hönigova
- Department of Pathological Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University / Kamenice 5, CZ-625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jiri Navratil
- Department of Pathological Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University / Kamenice 5, CZ-625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Barbora Peltanova
- Department of Pathological Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University / Kamenice 5, CZ-625 00 Brno, Czech Republic; Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University / Kamenice 5, CZ-625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Hana Holcova Polanska
- Department of Pathological Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University / Kamenice 5, CZ-625 00 Brno, Czech Republic; Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University / Kamenice 5, CZ-625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Martina Raudenska
- Department of Pathological Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University / Kamenice 5, CZ-625 00 Brno, Czech Republic; Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University / Kamenice 5, CZ-625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Michal Masarik
- Department of Pathological Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University / Kamenice 5, CZ-625 00 Brno, Czech Republic; Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University / Kamenice 5, CZ-625 00 Brno, Czech Republic; BIOCEV, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prumyslova 595, CZ-252 50 Vestec, Czech Republic.
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18
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Intercellular Communication in the Brain through Tunneling Nanotubes. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14051207. [PMID: 35267518 PMCID: PMC8909287 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14051207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) are a means of cell communication which have been recently discovered. They allow the intercellular trafficking of many types of cellular compounds ranging from ions, such as Ca2+, to whole organelles such as mitochondria. TNTs are found in many tissues, both in physiological and pathological conditions. They are also found in the brain where they contribute to brain development and function and also to degenerative diseases and glioma. Abstract Intercellular communication is essential for tissue homeostasis and function. Understanding how cells interact with each other is paramount, as crosstalk between cells is often dysregulated in diseases and can contribute to their progression. Cells communicate with each other through several modalities, including paracrine secretion and specialized structures ensuring physical contact between them. Among these intercellular specialized structures, tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) are now recognized as a means of cell-to-cell communication through the exchange of cellular cargo, controlled by a variety of biological triggers, as described here. Intercellular communication is fundamental to brain function. It allows the dialogue between the many cells, including neurons, astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, glial cells, microglia, necessary for the proper development and function of the brain. We highlight here the role of TNTs in connecting these cells, for the physiological functioning of the brain and in pathologies such as stroke, neurodegenerative diseases, and gliomas. Understanding these processes could pave the way for future therapies.
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Ottonelli I, Caraffi R, Tosi G, Vandelli MA, Duskey JT, Ruozi B. Tunneling Nanotubes: A New Target for Nanomedicine? Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23042237. [PMID: 35216348 PMCID: PMC8878036 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23042237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs), discovered in 2004, are thin, long protrusions between cells utilized for intercellular transfer and communication. These newly discovered structures have been demonstrated to play a crucial role in homeostasis, but also in the spreading of diseases, infections, and metastases. Gaining much interest in the medical research field, TNTs have been shown to transport nanomedicines (NMeds) between cells. NMeds have been studied thanks to their advantageous features in terms of reduced toxicity of drugs, enhanced solubility, protection of the payload, prolonged release, and more interestingly, cell-targeted delivery. Nevertheless, their transfer between cells via TNTs makes their true fate unknown. If better understood, TNTs could help control NMed delivery. In fact, TNTs can represent the possibility both to improve the biodistribution of NMeds throughout a diseased tissue by increasing their formation, or to minimize their formation to block the transfer of dangerous material. To date, few studies have investigated the interaction between NMeds and TNTs. In this work, we will explain what TNTs are and how they form and then review what has been published regarding their potential use in nanomedicine research. We will highlight possible future approaches to better exploit TNT intercellular communication in the field of nanomedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Ottonelli
- Clinical and Experimental Medicine PhD Program, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy;
- Nanotech Lab, Te.Far.T.I., Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (R.C.); (G.T.); (M.A.V.); (B.R.)
| | - Riccardo Caraffi
- Nanotech Lab, Te.Far.T.I., Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (R.C.); (G.T.); (M.A.V.); (B.R.)
| | - Giovanni Tosi
- Nanotech Lab, Te.Far.T.I., Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (R.C.); (G.T.); (M.A.V.); (B.R.)
| | - Maria Angela Vandelli
- Nanotech Lab, Te.Far.T.I., Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (R.C.); (G.T.); (M.A.V.); (B.R.)
| | - Jason Thomas Duskey
- Nanotech Lab, Te.Far.T.I., Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (R.C.); (G.T.); (M.A.V.); (B.R.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Barbara Ruozi
- Nanotech Lab, Te.Far.T.I., Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy; (R.C.); (G.T.); (M.A.V.); (B.R.)
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20
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Somasekharan SP, Saxena N, Zhang F, Beraldi E, Huang J, Gentle C, Fazli L, Thi M, Sorensen P, Gleave M. Regulation of AR mRNA translation in response to acute AR pathway inhibition. Nucleic Acids Res 2021; 50:1069-1091. [PMID: 34939643 PMCID: PMC8789049 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkab1247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Revised: 11/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
We report a new mechanism of androgen receptor (AR) mRNA regulation and cytoprotection in response to AR pathway inhibition (ARPI) stress in prostate cancer (PCA). AR mRNA translation is coordinately regulated by RNA binding proteins, YTHDF3 and G3BP1. Under ambient conditions m6A-modified AR mRNA is bound by YTHDF3 and translationally stimulated, while m6A-unmodified AR mRNA is bound by G3BP1 and translationally repressed. When AR-regulated PCA cell lines are subjected to ARPI stress, m6A-modified AR mRNA is recruited from actively translating polysomes (PSs) to RNA-protein stress granules (SGs), leading to reduced AR mRNA translation. After ARPI stress, m6A-modified AR mRNA liquid–liquid phase separated with YTHDF3, while m6A-unmodified AR mRNA phase separated with G3BP1. Accordingly, these AR mRNA messages form two distinct YTHDF3-enriched or G3BP1-enriched clusters in SGs. ARPI-induced SG formation is cell-protective, which when blocked by YTHDF3 or G3BP1 silencing increases PCA cell death in response to ARPI stress. Interestingly, AR mRNA silencing also delays ARPI stress-induced SG formation, highlighting its supportive role in triggering this stress response. Our results define a new mechanism for stress adaptive cell survival after ARPI stress involving SG-regulated translation of AR mRNA, mediated by m6A RNA modification and their respective regulatory proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syam Prakash Somasekharan
- Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Neetu Saxena
- Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Fan Zhang
- Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Eliana Beraldi
- Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Jia Ni Huang
- Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Christina Gentle
- Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Ladan Fazli
- Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Marisa Thi
- Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Poul H Sorensen
- British Columbia Cancer Research Centre, 675 West 10th Avenue, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada and Department of Pathology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Martin Gleave
- Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, Canada
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21
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Microtubule-Based Mitochondrial Dynamics as a Valuable Therapeutic Target in Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13225812. [PMID: 34830966 PMCID: PMC8616325 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13225812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 11/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria constitute an ever-reorganizing dynamic network that plays a key role in several fundamental cellular functions, including the regulation of metabolism, energy production, calcium homeostasis, production of reactive oxygen species, and programmed cell death. Each of these activities can be found to be impaired in cancer cells. It has been reported that mitochondrial dynamics are actively involved in both tumorigenesis and metabolic plasticity, allowing cancer cells to adapt to unfavorable environmental conditions and, thus, contributing to tumor progression. The mitochondrial dynamics include fusion, fragmentation, intracellular trafficking responsible for redistributing the organelle within the cell, biogenesis, and mitophagy. Although the mitochondrial dynamics are driven by the cytoskeleton-particularly by the microtubules and the microtubule-associated motor proteins dynein and kinesin-the molecular mechanisms regulating these complex processes are not yet fully understood. More recently, an exchange of mitochondria between stromal and cancer cells has also been described. The advantage of mitochondrial transfer in tumor cells results in benefits to cell survival, proliferation, and spreading. Therefore, understanding the molecular mechanisms that regulate mitochondrial trafficking can potentially be important for identifying new molecular targets in cancer therapy to interfere specifically with tumor dissemination processes.
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22
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Kato K, Nguyen KT, Decker CW, Silkwood KH, Eck SM, Hernandez JB, Garcia J, Han D. Tunneling nanotube formation promotes survival against 5-fluorouracil in MCF-7 breast cancer cells. FEBS Open Bio 2021; 12:203-210. [PMID: 34738322 PMCID: PMC8727926 DOI: 10.1002/2211-5463.13324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) are F-actin-based open-ended tubular extensions that form following stresses, such as nutritional deprivation and oxidative stress. The chemotherapy agent 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) represents a significant stressor to cancer cells and induces thymidine deficiency, a state similar to nutritional deprivation. However, the ability of 5-FU to induce TNT formation in cancer cells and potentially enhance survival has not been explored. In this study, we examined whether 5-FU can induce TNT formation in MCF-7 breast cancer cells. Cytotoxic doses of 5-FU (150-350 μm) were observed to significantly induce TNT formation beginning at 24 h after exposure. TNTs formed following 5-FU treatment probably originated as extensions of gap junctions as MCF-7 cells detach from cell clusters. TNTs act as conduits for exchange of cellular components and we observed mitochondrial exchange through TNTs following 5-FU treatment. 5-FU-induced TNT formation was inhibited by over 80% following treatment with the F-actin-depolymerizing agent, cytochalasin B (cytoB). The inhibition of TNTs by cytoB corresponded with increased 5-FU-induced cytotoxicity by 30-62% starting at 48 h, suggesting TNT formation aides in MCF-7 cell survival against 5-FU. Two other widely used chemotherapy agents, docetaxel and doxorubicin induced TNT formation at much lower levels than 5-FU. Our work suggests that the therapeutic targeting of TNTs may increase 5-FU chemotherapy efficacy and decrease drug resistance in cancer cells, and these findings merits further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaylyn Kato
- School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Keck Graduate Institute, Claremont, CA, USA
| | - Kim Tho Nguyen
- School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Keck Graduate Institute, Claremont, CA, USA
| | - Carl W Decker
- School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Keck Graduate Institute, Claremont, CA, USA
| | - Kai H Silkwood
- School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Keck Graduate Institute, Claremont, CA, USA
| | - Sydney M Eck
- School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Keck Graduate Institute, Claremont, CA, USA
| | - Jeniffer B Hernandez
- School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Keck Graduate Institute, Claremont, CA, USA
| | - Jerome Garcia
- Department of Biology, University of LaVerne, CA, USA
| | - Derick Han
- School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Keck Graduate Institute, Claremont, CA, USA
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23
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The 3.0 Cell Communication: New Insights in the Usefulness of Tunneling Nanotubes for Glioblastoma Treatment. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13164001. [PMID: 34439156 PMCID: PMC8392307 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13164001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Revised: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Communication between cells helps tumors acquire resistance to chemotherapy and makes the struggle against cancer more challenging. Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) are long channels able to connect both nearby and distant cells, contributing to a more malignant phenotype. This finding might be useful in designing novel strategies of drug delivery exploiting these systems of connection. This would be particularly important to reach tumor niches, where glioblastoma stem cells proliferate and provoke immune escape, thereby increasing metastatic potential and tumor recurrence a few months after surgical resection of the primary mass. Along with the direct inhibition of TNT formation, TNT analysis, and targeting strategies might be useful in providing innovative tools for the treatment of this tumor. Abstract Glioblastoma (GBM) is a particularly challenging brain tumor characterized by a heterogeneous, complex, and multicellular microenvironment, which represents a strategic network for treatment escape. Furthermore, the presence of GBM stem cells (GSCs) seems to contribute to GBM recurrence after surgery, and chemo- and/or radiotherapy. In this context, intercellular communication modalities play key roles in driving GBM therapy resistance. The presence of tunneling nanotubes (TNTs), long membranous open-ended channels connecting distant cells, has been observed in several types of cancer, where they emerge to steer a more malignant phenotype. Here, we discuss the current knowledge about the formation of TNTs between different cellular types in the GBM microenvironment and their potential role in tumor progression and recurrence. Particularly, we highlight two prospective strategies targeting TNTs as possible therapeutics: (i) the inhibition of TNT formation and (ii) a boost in drug delivery between cells through these channels. The latter may require future studies to design drug delivery systems that are exchangeable through TNTs, thus allowing for access to distant tumor niches that are involved in tumor immune escape, maintenance of GSC plasticity, and increases in metastatic potential.
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24
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Rausch M, Rutz A, Allard PM, Delucinge-Vivier C, Docquier M, Dormond O, Wolfender JL, Nowak-Sliwinska P. Molecular and Functional Analysis of Sunitinib-Resistance Induction in Human Renal Cell Carcinoma Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:6467. [PMID: 34208775 PMCID: PMC8235637 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22126467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Resistance in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) against sunitinib is a multifaceted process encompassing numerous molecular aberrations. This induces clinical complications, reducing the treatment success. Understanding these aberrations helps us to select an adapted treatment strategy that surpasses resistance mechanisms, reverting the treatment insensitivity. In this regard, we investigated the dominant mechanisms of resistance to sunitinib and validated an optimized multidrug combination to overcome this resistance. Human ccRCC cells were exposed to single or chronic treatment with sunitinib to obtain three resistant clones. Upon manifestation of sunitinib resistance, morphometric changes in the cells were observed. At the molecular level, the production of cell membrane and extracellular matrix components, chemotaxis, and cell cycle progression were dysregulated. Molecules enforcing the cell cycle progression, i.e., cyclin A, B1, and E, were upregulated. Mass spectrometry analysis revealed the intra- and extracellular presence of N-desethyl sunitinib, the active metabolite. Lysosomal sequestration of sunitinib was confirmed. After treatment with a synergistic optimized drug combination, the cell metabolic activity in Caki-1-sunitinib-resistant cells and 3D heterotypic co-cultures was reduced by >80%, remaining inactive in non-cancerous cells. These results demonstrate geno- and phenotypic changes in response to sunitinib treatment upon resistance induction. Mimicking resistance in the laboratory served as a platform to study drug responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Rausch
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Geneva, CMU-Rue Michel-Servet 1, CH-1211 Geneva, Switzerland; (M.R.); (A.R.); (P.-M.A.); (J.-L.W.)
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Western Switzerland, University of Geneva, CMU-Rue Michel-Servet 1, CH-1211 Geneva, Switzerland
- Translational Research Center in Oncohaematology, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Adriano Rutz
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Geneva, CMU-Rue Michel-Servet 1, CH-1211 Geneva, Switzerland; (M.R.); (A.R.); (P.-M.A.); (J.-L.W.)
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Western Switzerland, University of Geneva, CMU-Rue Michel-Servet 1, CH-1211 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Pierre-Marie Allard
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Geneva, CMU-Rue Michel-Servet 1, CH-1211 Geneva, Switzerland; (M.R.); (A.R.); (P.-M.A.); (J.-L.W.)
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Western Switzerland, University of Geneva, CMU-Rue Michel-Servet 1, CH-1211 Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Mylène Docquier
- iGE3 Genomics Platform, University of Geneva, 1206 Geneva, Switzerland; (C.D.-V.); (M.D.)
- Department of Genetics and Evolution, University of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Olivier Dormond
- Department of Visceral Surgery, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland;
| | - Jean-Luc Wolfender
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Geneva, CMU-Rue Michel-Servet 1, CH-1211 Geneva, Switzerland; (M.R.); (A.R.); (P.-M.A.); (J.-L.W.)
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Western Switzerland, University of Geneva, CMU-Rue Michel-Servet 1, CH-1211 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Patrycja Nowak-Sliwinska
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Geneva, CMU-Rue Michel-Servet 1, CH-1211 Geneva, Switzerland; (M.R.); (A.R.); (P.-M.A.); (J.-L.W.)
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Western Switzerland, University of Geneva, CMU-Rue Michel-Servet 1, CH-1211 Geneva, Switzerland
- Translational Research Center in Oncohaematology, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland
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25
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Tiwari V, Koganti R, Russell G, Sharma A, Shukla D. Role of Tunneling Nanotubes in Viral Infection, Neurodegenerative Disease, and Cancer. Front Immunol 2021; 12:680891. [PMID: 34194434 PMCID: PMC8236699 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.680891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The network of tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) represents the filamentous (F)-actin rich tubular structure which is connected to the cytoplasm of the adjacent and or distant cells to mediate efficient cell-to-cell communication. They are long cytoplasmic bridges with an extraordinary ability to perform diverse array of function ranging from maintaining cellular physiology and cell survival to promoting immune surveillance. Ironically, TNTs are now widely documented to promote the spread of various pathogens including viruses either during early or late phase of their lifecycle. In addition, TNTs have also been associated with multiple pathologies in a complex multicellular environment. While the recent work from multiple laboratories has elucidated the role of TNTs in cellular communication and maintenance of homeostasis, this review focuses on their exploitation by the diverse group of viruses such as retroviruses, herpesviruses, influenza A, human metapneumovirus and SARS CoV-2 to promote viral entry, virus trafficking and cell-to-cell spread. The later process may aggravate disease severity and the associated complications due to widespread dissemination of the viruses to multiple organ system as observed in current coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients. In addition, the TNT-mediated intracellular spread can be protective to the viruses from the circulating immune surveillance and possible neutralization activity present in the extracellular matrix. This review further highlights the relevance of TNTs in ocular and cardiac tissues including neurodegenerative diseases, chemotherapeutic resistance, and cancer pathogenesis. Taken together, we suggest that effective therapies should consider precise targeting of TNTs in several diseases including virus infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vaibhav Tiwari
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL, United States
| | - Raghuram Koganti
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Greer Russell
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Graduate Studies, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL, United States
| | - Ananya Sharma
- Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Deepak Shukla
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
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26
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Pandkar MR, Dhamdhere SG, Shukla S. Oxygen gradient and tumor heterogeneity: The chronicle of a toxic relationship. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2021; 1876:188553. [PMID: 33915221 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2021.188553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Revised: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The commencement of cancer is attributed to one or a few cells that become rogue and attain the property of immortality. The inception of distinct cancer cell clones during the hyperplastic and dysplastic stages of cancer progression is the utimate consequence of the dysregulated cellular pathways and the proliferative potential itself. Furthermore, a critical factor that adds a layer of complexity to this pre-existent intra-tumoral heterogeneity (ITH) is the foundation of an oxygen gradient, that is established due to the improper architecture of the tumor vasculature. Therefore, as a resultant effect, the poorly oxygenated regions thus formed and characterized as hypoxic, promote the emergence of aggressive and treatment-resistant cancer cell clones. The extraordinary property of the hypoxic cancer cells to exist harmoniously with cancerous and non-cancerous cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME) further increases the intricacies of ITH. Here in this review, the pivotal influence of differential oxygen concentrations in shaping the ITH is thoroughly discussed. We also emphasize on the vitality of the interacting networks that govern the overall fate of oxygen gradient-dependent origin of tumor heterogeneity. Additionally, the implications of less-appreciated reverse Warburg effect, a symbiotic metabolic coupling, and the associated epigenetic regulation of rewiring of cancer metabolism in response to oxygen gradients, have been highlighted as critical influencers of ITH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madhura R Pandkar
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 462066, India
| | - Shruti G Dhamdhere
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 462066, India
| | - Sanjeev Shukla
- Department of Biological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh 462066, India.
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27
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Patient-derived glioblastoma stem cells transfer mitochondria through tunneling nanotubes in tumor organoids. Biochem J 2021; 478:21-39. [PMID: 33245115 PMCID: PMC7800365 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20200710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Revised: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive brain cancer and its relapse after surgery, chemo and radiotherapy appears to be led by GBM stem cells (GSCs). Also, tumor networking and intercellular communication play a major role in driving GBM therapy-resistance. Tunneling Nanotubes (TNTs), thin membranous open-ended channels connecting distant cells, have been observed in several types of cancer, where they emerge to drive a more malignant phenotype. Here, we investigated whether GBM cells are capable to intercommunicate by TNTs. Two GBM stem-like cells (GSLCs) were obtained from the external and infiltrative zone of one GBM from one patient. We show, for the first time, that both GSLCs, grown in classical 2D culture and in 3D-tumor organoids, formed functional TNTs which allowed mitochondria transfer. In the organoid model, recapitulative of several tumor's features, we observed the formation of a network between cells constituted of both Tumor Microtubes (TMs), previously observed in vivo, and TNTs. In addition, the two GSLCs exhibited different responses to irradiation in terms of TNT induction and mitochondria transfer, although the correlation with the disease progression and therapy-resistance needs to be further addressed. Thus, TNT-based communication is active in different GSLCs derived from the external tumoral areas associated to GBM relapse, and we propose that they participate together with TMs in tumor networking.
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28
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Zurzolo C. Tunneling nanotubes: Reshaping connectivity. Curr Opin Cell Biol 2021; 71:139-147. [PMID: 33866130 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceb.2021.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs), open membranous channels between connected cells, represent a novel direct way of communication between distant cells for the diffusion of various cellular material, including survival or death signals, genetic material, organelles, and pathogens. Their discovery prompted us to review our understanding of many physiological and pathological processes involving cellular communication but also allowed us to discover new mechanisms of communication at a distance. While this has enriched the field, it has also generated some confusion, as different TNT-like protrusions have been described, and it is not clear whether they have the same structure-function. Most studies have been based on low-resolution imaging methods, and one of the major problems is the inconsistency in demonstrating the capacity of these various connections to transfer material between cells belonging to different populations. This brief review examines the fundamental properties of TNTs. In adult tissues, TNTs are stimulated by different diseases, stresses, and inflammatory signals. 'Moreover', based on the similarity of the processes of development of synaptic spines and TNT formation, we argue that TNTs in the brain predate synaptic transmission, being instrumental in the orchestration of the immature neuronal circuit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Zurzolo
- Membrane Traffic and Pathogenesis, Institut Pasteur, UMR3691 CNRS, 75015, Paris, France.
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29
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Wang S, Li Y, Zhao Y, Lin F, Qu J, Liu L. Investigating tunneling nanotubes in ovarian cancer based on two-photon excitation FLIM-FRET. BIOMEDICAL OPTICS EXPRESS 2021; 12:1962-1973. [PMID: 33996210 PMCID: PMC8086450 DOI: 10.1364/boe.418778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Precise and efficient cell-to-cell communication is critical to the growth and differentiation of organisms, the formation of various organism, the maintenance of tissue function and the coordination of their various physiological activities, especially to the growth and invasion of cancer cells. Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) were discovered as a new method of cell-to-cell communication in many cell lines. In this paper, we investigated TNTs-like structures in ovarian cancer cells and proved their elements by fluorescent staining, which showed that TNTs are comprised of natural lipid bilayers with microtubules as the skeleton that can transmit ions and organelles between adjacent cells. We then used fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) based on two-photon excitation fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) (TP-FLIM-FRET) to detect material transport in TNTs. The experimental results showed that the number of TNTs have an impact on the drug treatment of cancer cells, which provided a new perspective for TNTs involvement in cancer treatment. Our results also showed that TP-FLIM-FRET would potentially become a new optical method for TNTs study.
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30
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Opportunities and Challenges in Tunneling Nanotubes Research: How Far from Clinical Application? Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22052306. [PMID: 33669068 PMCID: PMC7956326 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22052306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Revised: 02/21/2021] [Accepted: 02/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) are recognized long membrane nanotubes connecting distance cells. In the last decade, growing evidence has shown that these subcellular structures mediate the specific transfer of cellular materials, pathogens, and electrical signals between cells. As intercellular bridges, they play a unique role in embryonic development, collective cell migration, injured cell recovery, cancer treatment resistance, and pathogen propagation. Although TNTs have been considered as potential drug targets for treatment, there is still a long way to go to translate the research findings into clinical practice. Herein, we emphasize the heterogeneous nature of TNTs by systemically summarizing the current knowledge on their morphology, structure, and biogenesis in different types of cells. Furthermore, we address the communication efficiency and biological outcomes of TNT-dependent transport related to diseases. Finally, we discuss the opportunities and challenges of TNTs as an exciting therapeutic approach by focusing on the development of efficient and safe drugs targeting TNTs.
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31
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Cai C, Sun H, Hu L, Fan Z. Visualization of integrin molecules by fluorescence imaging and techniques. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 45:229-257. [PMID: 34219865 PMCID: PMC8249084 DOI: 10.32604/biocell.2021.014338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Integrin molecules are transmembrane αβ heterodimers involved in cell adhesion, trafficking, and signaling. Upon activation, integrins undergo dynamic conformational changes that regulate their affinity to ligands. The physiological functions and activation mechanisms of integrins have been heavily discussed in previous studies and reviews, but the fluorescence imaging techniques -which are powerful tools for biological studies- have not. Here we review the fluorescence labeling methods, imaging techniques, as well as Förster resonance energy transfer assays used to study integrin expression, localization, activation, and functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Cai
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, UConn Health, Farmington, 06030, USA
| | - Hao Sun
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, 92093, USA
| | - Liang Hu
- Cardiovascular Institute of Zhengzhou University, Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450051, China
| | - Zhichao Fan
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, UConn Health, Farmington, 06030, USA
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32
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Kaarijärvi R, Kaljunen H, Ketola K. Molecular and Functional Links between Neurodevelopmental Processes and Treatment-Induced Neuroendocrine Plasticity in Prostate Cancer Progression. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13040692. [PMID: 33572108 PMCID: PMC7915380 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13040692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2020] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Treatment-induced neuroendocrine prostate cancer (t-NEPC) is a subtype of castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) which develops under prolonged androgen deprivation therapy. The mechanisms and pathways underlying the t-NEPC are still poorly understood and there are no effective treatments available. Here, we summarize the literature on the molecules and pathways contributing to neuroendocrine phenotype in prostate cancer in the context of their known cellular neurodevelopmental processes. We also discuss the role of tumor microenvironment in neuroendocrine plasticity, future directions, and therapeutic options under clinical investigation for neuroendocrine prostate cancer. Abstract Neuroendocrine plasticity and treatment-induced neuroendocrine phenotypes have recently been proposed as important resistance mechanisms underlying prostate cancer progression. Treatment-induced neuroendocrine prostate cancer (t-NEPC) is highly aggressive subtype of castration-resistant prostate cancer which develops for one fifth of patients under prolonged androgen deprivation. In recent years, understanding of molecular features and phenotypic changes in neuroendocrine plasticity has been grown. However, there are still fundamental questions to be answered in this emerging research field, for example, why and how do the prostate cancer treatment-resistant cells acquire neuron-like phenotype. The advantages of the phenotypic change and the role of tumor microenvironment in controlling cellular plasticity and in the emergence of treatment-resistant aggressive forms of prostate cancer is mostly unknown. Here, we discuss the molecular and functional links between neurodevelopmental processes and treatment-induced neuroendocrine plasticity in prostate cancer progression and treatment resistance. We provide an overview of the emergence of neurite-like cells in neuroendocrine prostate cancer cells and whether the reported t-NEPC pathways and proteins relate to neurodevelopmental processes like neurogenesis and axonogenesis during the development of treatment resistance. We also discuss emerging novel therapeutic targets modulating neuroendocrine plasticity.
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33
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Lou E. A Ticket to Ride: The Implications of Direct Intercellular Communication via Tunneling Nanotubes in Peritoneal and Other Invasive Malignancies. Front Oncol 2020; 10:559548. [PMID: 33324545 PMCID: PMC7727447 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.559548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
It is well established that the role of the tumor microenvironment (TME) in cancer progression and therapeutic resistance is crucial, but many of the underlying mechanisms are still being elucidated. Even with better understanding of molecular oncology and identification of genomic drivers of these processes, there has been a relative lag in identifying and appreciating the cellular drivers of both invasion and resistance. Intercellular communication is a vital process that unifies and synchronizes the diverse components of the tumoral infrastructure. Elucidation of the role of extracellular vesicles (EVs) over the past decade has cast a brighter light on this field. And yet even with this advance, in addition to diffusible soluble factor-mediated paracrine and endocrine cell communication as well as EVs, additional niches of intratumoral communication are filled by other modes of intercellular transfer. Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs), tumor microtubes (TMs), and other similar intercellular channels are long filamentous actin-based cellular conduits (in most epithelial cancer cell types, ~15-500 µm in length; 50–1000+ nm in width). They extend and form direct connections between distant cells, serving as conduits for direct intercellular transfer of cell cargo, such as mitochondria, exosomes, and microRNAs; however, many of their functional roles in mediating tumor growth remain unknown. These conduits literally create a physical bridge to create a syncytial network of dispersed cells amidst the intercellular stroma-rich matrix. Emerging evidence suggests that they provide a cellular mechanism for induction and emergence of drug resistance and contribute to increased invasive and metastatic potential. They have been imaged in vitro and also in vivo and ex vivo in tumors from human patients as well as animal models, thus not only proving their existence in the TME, but opening further speculation about their exact role in the dynamic niche of tumor ecosystems. TNT cellular networks are upregulated between cancer and stromal cells under hypoxic and other conditions of physiologic and metabolic stress. Furthermore, they can connect malignant cells to benign cells, including vascular endothelial cells. The field of investigation of TNT-mediated tumor-stromal, and tumor-tumor, cell-cell communication is gaining momentum. The mixture of conditions in the microenvironment exemplified by hypoxia-induced ovarian cancer TNTs playing a crucial role in tumor growth, as just one example, is a potential avenue of investigation that will uncover their role in relation to other known factors, including EVs. If the role of cancer heterocellular signaling via TNTs in the TME is proven to be crucial, then disrupting formation and maintenance of TNTs represents a novel therapeutic approach for ovarian and other similarly invasive peritoneal cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emil Lou
- Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology, Oncology and Transplantation, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, United States
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Tunneling Nanotubes: The Fuel of Tumor Progression? Trends Cancer 2020; 6:874-888. [DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2020.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2020] [Revised: 04/29/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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Muscarella AM, Dai W, Mitchell PG, Zhang W, Wang H, Jia L, Stossi F, Mancini MA, Chiu W, Zhang XHF. Unique cellular protrusions mediate breast cancer cell migration by tethering to osteogenic cells. NPJ Breast Cancer 2020; 6:42. [PMID: 32964116 PMCID: PMC7477119 DOI: 10.1038/s41523-020-00183-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2019] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Migration and invasion are key properties of metastatic cancer cells. These properties can be acquired through intrinsic reprogramming processes such as epithelial-mesenchymal transition. In this study, we discovered an alternative "migration-by-tethering" mechanism through which cancer cells gain the momentum to migrate by adhering to mesenchymal stem cells or osteoblasts. This tethering is mediated by both heterotypic adherens junctions and gap junctions, and leads to a unique cellular protrusion supported by cofilin-coated actin filaments. Inhibition of gap junctions or depletion of cofilin reduces migration-by-tethering. We observed evidence of these protrusions in bone segments harboring experimental and spontaneous bone metastasis in animal models. These data exemplify how cancer cells may acquire migratory ability without intrinsic reprogramming. Furthermore, given the important roles of osteogenic cells in early-stage bone colonization, our observations raise the possibility that migration-by-tethering may drive the relocation of disseminated tumor cells between different niches in the bone microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron M. Muscarella
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030 USA
- Dan L. Duncan Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030 USA
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030 USA
- Graduate Program in Integrative Molecular and Biomedical Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030 USA
| | - Wei Dai
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Institute for Quantitative Biomedicine, Rutgers University, 174 Frelinghuysen Road, Piscataway, NJ 08854 USA
| | - Patrick G. Mitchell
- Graduate Program in Integrative Molecular and Biomedical Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030 USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030 USA
- National Center for Macromolecular Imaging, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030 USA
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305 USA
| | - Weijie Zhang
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030 USA
- Dan L. Duncan Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030 USA
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030 USA
| | - Hai Wang
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030 USA
- Dan L. Duncan Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030 USA
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030 USA
| | - Luyu Jia
- Graduate Program in Integrative Molecular and Biomedical Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030 USA
| | - Fabio Stossi
- Dan L. Duncan Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030 USA
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030 USA
| | - Michael A. Mancini
- Dan L. Duncan Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030 USA
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030 USA
| | - Wah Chiu
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305 USA
| | - Xiang H.-F. Zhang
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030 USA
- Dan L. Duncan Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030 USA
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030 USA
- McNair Medical Institute, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030 USA
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36
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Zhang S, Kazanietz MG, Cooke M. Rho GTPases and the emerging role of tunneling nanotubes in physiology and disease. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2020; 319:C877-C884. [PMID: 32845720 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00351.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) emerged as important specialized actin-rich membrane protrusions for cell-to-cell communication. These structures allow the intercellular exchange of material, such as ions, soluble proteins, receptors, vesicles and organelles, therefore exerting critical roles in normal cell function. Indeed, TNTs participate in a number of physiological processes, including embryogenesis, immune response, and osteoclastogenesis. TNTs have been also shown to contribute to the transmission of retroviruses (e.g., human immunodeficiency virus-1, HIV-1) and coronaviruses. As with other membrane protrusions, the involvement of Rho GTPases in the formation of these elongated structures is undisputable, although the mechanisms involved are not yet fully elucidated. The tight control of Rho GTPase function by guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs) and GTPase-activating proteins (GAPs) strongly suggests that localized control of these Rho regulators may contribute to TNT assembly and disassembly. Deciphering the intricacies of the complex signaling mechanisms leading to actin reorganization and TNT development would reveal important information about their involvement in normal cellular physiology as well as unveil potential targets for disease management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suli Zhang
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Marcelo G Kazanietz
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Mariana Cooke
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.,Department of Medicine, Einstein Medical Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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Jung E, Alfonso J, Monyer H, Wick W, Winkler F. Neuronal signatures in cancer. Int J Cancer 2020; 147:3281-3291. [PMID: 32510582 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.33138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Revised: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Despite advances in the treatment of solid tumors, the prognosis of patients with many cancers remains poor, particularly of those with primary and metastatic brain tumors. In the last years, "Cancer Neuroscience" emerged as novel field of research at the crossroads of oncology and classical neuroscience. In primary brain tumors, including glioblastoma (GB), communicating networks that render tumor cells resistant against cytotoxic therapies were identified. To build these networks, GB cells extend neurite-like protrusions called tumor microtubes (TMs). Synapses on TMs allow tumor cells to retrieve neuronal input that fosters growth. Single cell sequencing further revealed that primary brain tumors recapitulate many steps of neurodevelopment. Interestingly, neuronal characteristics, including the ability to extend neurite-like protrusions, neuronal gene expression signatures and interactions with neurons, have now been found not only in brain and neuroendocrine tumors but also in some cancers of epithelial origin. In this review, we will provide an overview about neurite-like protrusions as well as neurodevelopmental origins, hierarchies and gene expression signatures in cancer. We will also discuss how "Cancer Neuroscience" might provide a framework for the development of novel therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik Jung
- Neurology Clinic and National Center for Tumor Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,Clinical Cooperation Unit Neurooncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Julieta Alfonso
- Department of Clinical Neurobiology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Hannah Monyer
- Department of Clinical Neurobiology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany.,Department of Clinical Neurobiology, Medical Faculty, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Wick
- Neurology Clinic and National Center for Tumor Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,Clinical Cooperation Unit Neurooncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Frank Winkler
- Neurology Clinic and National Center for Tumor Diseases, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,Clinical Cooperation Unit Neurooncology, German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
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38
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Latario CJ, Schoenfeld LW, Howarth CL, Pickrell LE, Begum F, Fischer DA, Grbovic-Huezo O, Leach SD, Sanchez Y, Smith KD, Higgs HN. Tumor microtubes connect pancreatic cancer cells in an Arp2/3 complex-dependent manner. Mol Biol Cell 2020; 31:1259-1272. [PMID: 32267199 PMCID: PMC7353147 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e19-11-0605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2019] [Revised: 03/18/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Actin-based tubular connections between cells have been observed in many cell types. Termed "tunneling nanotubes (TNTs)," "membrane nanotubes," "tumor microtubes (TMTs)," or "cytonemes," these protrusions interconnect cells in dynamic networks. Structural features in these protrusions vary between cellular systems, including tubule diameter and the presence of microtubules. We find tubular protrusions, which we classify as TMTs, in a pancreatic cancer cell line, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Pancreatic Cancer (DHPC)-018. TMTs are present in DHPC-018-derived tumors in mice, as well as in a mouse model of pancreatic cancer and a subset of primary human tumors. DHPC-018 TMTs have heterogeneous diameter (0.39-5.85 µm, median 1.92 µm) and contain actin filaments, microtubules, and cytokeratin 19-based intermediate filaments. TMTs do not allow intercellular transfer of cytoplasmic GFP. Actin filaments are cortical within the protrusion, as opposed to TNTs, in which filaments run down the center. TMTs are dynamic in length, but are long lived (median >60 min). Inhibition of actin polymerization, but not microtubules, results in TMT loss. Extracellular calcium is necessary for TMT maintenance. A second class of tubular protrusion, which we term cell-substrate protrusion, has similar width range and cytoskeletal features but makes contact with the substratum as opposed to another cell. Similar to previous work on TNTs, we find two assembly mechanisms for TMTs, which we term "pull-away" and "search-and-capture." Inhibition of Arp2/3 complex inhibits TMT assembly by both mechanisms. This work demonstrates that the actin architecture of TMTs in pancreatic cancer cells is fundamentally different from that of TNTs and demonstrates the role of Arp2/3 complex in TMT assembly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Casey J. Latario
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH 03755
| | - Lori W. Schoenfeld
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH 03755
| | - Charles L. Howarth
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology, and Norris Cotton Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH 03755
| | - Laura E. Pickrell
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH 03755
| | - Fatema Begum
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH 03755
| | - Dawn A. Fischer
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH 03756
| | - Olivera Grbovic-Huezo
- David M. Rubenstein Center for Pancreatic Cancer Research, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065
| | - Steven D. Leach
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology, and Norris Cotton Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH 03755
| | - Yolanda Sanchez
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology, and Norris Cotton Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH 03755
| | - Kerrington D. Smith
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH 03756
| | - Henry N. Higgs
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH 03755
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Identification of low-dose multidrug combinations for sunitinib-naive and pre-treated renal cell carcinoma. Br J Cancer 2020; 123:556-567. [PMID: 32439932 PMCID: PMC7435198 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-020-0890-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2019] [Revised: 04/04/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Combinations of drugs can improve the efficacy of cancer treatment, enable the reduction of side effects and the occurrence of acquired drug resistance. Methods We approached this challenge mathematically by using the validated technology called the Therapeutically Guided Multidrug Optimization (TGMO) method. In a set of genetically distinct human renal cell carcinoma (RCC) cell lines, either treated chronically with sunitinib (−ST) or sunitinib-naive, we identified cell line-specific low-dose-optimised drug combinations (ODC). Results Six cell-type-specific low-dose drug combinations for three sunitinib-naive as well as three sunitinib pre-treated cells were established. These ODCs effectively inhibited the RCC cell metabolic activity while being ineffective in non-cancerous cells. Based on a single screening test and three searches, starting with ten drugs, we identified highly efficacious drug mixtures containing four drugs. All ODCs contained AZD4547 (FGFR signalling pathway inhibitor) and pictilisib (pan-phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase inhibitor), but varied in the third and fourth drug. ODC treatment significantly decreased cell metabolic activity (up to 70%) and induced apoptosis, independent of the pretreatment with sunitinib. The ODCs outperformed sunitinib, the standard care for RCC. Moreover, short-term starvation potentiated the ODC activity. The translation of the 2D-based results to 3D heterotypic co-culture models revealed significant inhibition of the spheroid growth (up to 95%). Conclusion We demonstrate a promising low-dose drug combination development to obtain drug combinations effective in naive as well as resistant tumours. Nevertheless, we emphasise the need for further mechanistic investigation and preclinical development.
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40
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Franchi M, Piperigkou Z, Riti E, Masola V, Onisto M, Karamanos NK. Long filopodia and tunneling nanotubes define new phenotypes of breast cancer cells in 3D cultures. Matrix Biol Plus 2020; 6-7:100026. [PMID: 33543024 PMCID: PMC7852320 DOI: 10.1016/j.mbplus.2020.100026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2019] [Revised: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer cell invasion into the surrounding extracellular matrix (ECM) takes place when cell-cell junctions are disrupted upon epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Both cancer cell-stroma and cell-cell crosstalk are essential to support the continuous tumor invasion. Cancer cells release microvesicles and exosomes containing bioactive molecules and signal peptides, which are recruited by neighboring cells or carried to distant sites, thus supporting intercellular communication and cargo transfer. Besides this indirect communication mode, cancer cells can develop cytoplasmic intercellular protrusions or tunneling nanotubes (TNTs), which allow the direct communication and molecular exchange between connected distinct cells. Using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) we show for the first time that MDA-MB-231 (high metastatic potential) and shERβ MDA-MB-231 (low metastatic potential) breast cancer cells cultured on fibronectin and collagen type I or 17β-estradiol (E2) develop TNTs and very long flexible filopodia. Interestingly, the less aggressive shERβ MDA-MB-231 cells treated with E2 in 3D collagen matrix showed the highest development of TNTs and filopodia. TNTs were often associated to adhering exosomes and microvesicles surfing from one cell to another, but no filopodia exhibited vesicle-like cytoplasmic structures on their surface. Moreover, E2 affected the expression of matrix macromolecules and cell effectors mostly in the presence of ERβ. Our novel data highlights the significance of matrix substrates and the presence of E2 and ERβ in the formation of cellular protrusion and the production of surface structures, defining novel phenotypes that unravel nodal reports for breast cancer progression.
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Key Words
- 3D, three dimensional
- Breast cancer
- CAFs, cancer-associated fibroblasts
- E2, 17β-estradiol
- ECM, extracellular matrix
- EMT, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition
- ER, estrogen receptor
- Estrogen receptor beta
- FGF, fibroblast growth factor
- FIB-SEM, focused-ion beam scanning electron microscopy
- Filopodia
- HGF, hepatocyte growth factor
- Intercellular communication
- MMPs, matrix metalloproteinases
- SEM, scanning electron microscope
- Scanning electron microscopy
- TGFβ, transforming growth factor beta
- TNTs, tunneling nanotubes
- Tunneling nanotubes
- miRNAs, microRNAs
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Franchi
- Department for Life Quality Studies, University of Bologna, Rimini, Italy
| | - Zoi Piperigkou
- Biochemistry, Biochemical Analysis & Matrix Pathobiology Research Group, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Chemistry, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Eirini Riti
- Biochemistry, Biochemical Analysis & Matrix Pathobiology Research Group, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Chemistry, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Valentina Masola
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Maurizio Onisto
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Nikos K. Karamanos
- Biochemistry, Biochemical Analysis & Matrix Pathobiology Research Group, Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Chemistry, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
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Investigating Tunneling Nanotubes in Cancer Cells: Guidelines for Structural and Functional Studies through Cell Imaging. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 2020:2701345. [PMID: 32351987 PMCID: PMC7174938 DOI: 10.1155/2020/2701345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
By allowing insured communication between cancer cells themselves and with the neighboring stromal cells, tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) are involved in the multistep process of cancer development from tumorigenesis to the treatment resistance. However, despite their critical role in the biology of cancer, the study of the TNTs has been announced challenging due to not only the absence of a specific biomarker but also the fragile and transitory nature of their structure and the fact that they are hovering freely above the substratum. Here, we proposed to review guidelines to follow for studying the structure and functionality of TNTs in tumoral neuroendocrine cells (PC12) and nontumorigenic human bronchial epithelial cells (HBEC-3, H28). In particular, we reported how crucial is it (i) to consider the culture conditions (culture surface, cell density), (ii) to visualize the formation of TNTs in living cells (mechanisms of formation, 3D representation), and (iii) to identify the cytoskeleton components and the associated elements (categories, origin, tip, and formation/transport) in the TNTs. We also focused on the input of high-resolution cell imaging approaches including Stimulated Emission Depletion (STED) nanoscopy, Transmitted and Scanning Electron Microscopies (TEM and SEM). In addition, we underlined the important role of the organelles in the mechanisms of TNT formation and transfer between the cancer cells. Finally, new biological models for the identification of the TNTs between cancer cells and stromal cells (liquid air interface, ex vivo, in vivo) and the clinical considerations will also be discussed.
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Tunneling Nanotubes and Tumor Microtubes in Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12040857. [PMID: 32244839 PMCID: PMC7226329 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12040857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Intercellular communication among cancer cells and their microenvironment is crucial to disease progression. The mechanisms by which communication occurs between distant cells in a tumor matrix remain poorly understood. In the last two decades, experimental evidence from different groups proved the existence of thin membranous tubes that interconnect cells, named tunneling nanotubes, tumor microtubes, cytonemes or membrane bridges. These highly dynamic membrane protrusions are conduits for direct cell-to-cell communication, particularly for intercellular signaling and transport of cellular cargo over long distances. Tunneling nanotubes and tumor microtubes may play an important role in the pathogenesis of cancer. They may contribute to the resistance of tumor cells against treatments such as surgery, radio- and chemotherapy. In this review, we present the current knowledge about the structure and function of tunneling nanotubes and tumor microtubes in cancer and discuss the therapeutic potential of membrane tubes in cancer treatment.
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Omsland M, Andresen V, Gullaksen SE, Ayuda-Durán P, Popa M, Hovland R, Brendehaug A, Enserink J, McCormack E, Gjertsen BT. Tyrosine kinase inhibitors and interferon-α increase tunneling nanotube (TNT) formation and cell adhesion in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) cell lines. FASEB J 2020; 34:3773-3791. [PMID: 31945226 PMCID: PMC10894852 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201802061rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2018] [Revised: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 12/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is a stem cell disease of the bone marrow where mechanisms of inter-leukemic communication and cell-to-cell interactions are proposed to be important for optimal therapy response. Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) are novel intercellular communication structures transporting different cargos with potential implications in therapy resistance. Here, we have investigated TNTs in CML cells and following treatment with the highly effective CML therapeutics tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) and interferon-α (IFNα). CML cells from chronic phase CML patients as well as the blast crisis phase cell lines, Kcl-22 and K562, formed few or no TNTs. Treatment with imatinib increased TNT formation in both Kcl-22 and K562 cells, while nilotinib or IFNα increased TNTs in Kcl-22 cells only where the TNT increase was associated with adherence to fibronectin-coated surfaces, altered morphology, and reduced movement involving β1integrin. Ex vivo treated cells from chronic phase CML patients showed limited changes in TNT formation similarly to bone marrow cells from healthy individuals. Interestingly, in vivo nilotinib treatment in a Kcl-22 subcutaneous mouse model resulted in morphological changes and TNT-like structures in the tumor-derived Kcl-22 cells. Our results demonstrate that CML cells express low levels of TNTs, but CML therapeutics increase TNT formation in designated cell models indicating TNT functionality in bone marrow derived malignancies and their microenvironment.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Cell Adhesion/drug effects
- Cell Communication/drug effects
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Cells, Cultured
- Female
- Fluorescent Antibody Technique
- Humans
- Immunoblotting
- Integrin beta1/metabolism
- Interferon-alpha/therapeutic use
- K562 Cells
- Leukemia, Myelogenous, Chronic, BCR-ABL Positive/drug therapy
- Leukemia, Myelogenous, Chronic, BCR-ABL Positive/metabolism
- Mice
- Microscopy, Electron, Scanning
- Protein Kinase Inhibitors/therapeutic use
- Xenograft Model Antitumor Assays
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Omsland
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers CCBIO, Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Animal Models and Retroviral Vaccines Section, Vaccine Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Vibeke Andresen
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers CCBIO, Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hematology Section, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Stein-Erik Gullaksen
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers CCBIO, Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hematology Section, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Pilar Ayuda-Durán
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Institute for Cancer Research, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Mihaela Popa
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hematology Section, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
- KinN Therapeutics, Bergen, Norway
| | - Randi Hovland
- Department of Medical Genetics, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Atle Brendehaug
- Department of Medical Genetics, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Jorrit Enserink
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Institute for Cancer Research, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Emmet McCormack
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers CCBIO, Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Bjørn Tore Gjertsen
- Centre for Cancer Biomarkers CCBIO, Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hematology Section, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
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Casas-Tintó S, Portela M. Cytonemes, Their Formation, Regulation, and Roles in Signaling and Communication in Tumorigenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20225641. [PMID: 31718063 PMCID: PMC6888727 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20225641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2019] [Revised: 11/08/2019] [Accepted: 11/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Increasing evidence during the past two decades shows that cells interconnect and communicate through cytonemes. These cytoskeleton-driven extensions of specialized membrane territories are involved in cell–cell signaling in development, patterning, and differentiation, but also in the maintenance of adult tissue homeostasis, tissue regeneration, and cancer. Brain tumor cells in glioblastoma extend ultralong membrane protrusions (named tumor microtubes, TMs), which contribute to invasion, proliferation, radioresistance, and tumor progression. Here we review the mechanisms underlying cytoneme formation, regulation, and their roles in cell signaling and communication in epithelial cells and other cell types. Furthermore, we discuss the recent discovery of glial cytonemes in the Drosophila glial cells that alter Wingless (Wg)/Frizzled (Fz) signaling between glia and neurons. Research on cytoneme formation, maintenance, and cell signaling mechanisms will help to better understand not only physiological developmental processes and tissue homeostasis but also cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Casas-Tintó
- Instituto Cajal-CSIC. Av. del Doctor Arce, 37. 28002 Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence: (S.C.-T.); (M.P.); Tel.: +34915854738 (S.C.-T.); +61394792522 (M.P.)
| | - Marta Portela
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria 3086, Australia
- Correspondence: (S.C.-T.); (M.P.); Tel.: +34915854738 (S.C.-T.); +61394792522 (M.P.)
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45
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Direct Intercellular Communications and Cancer: A Snapshot of the Biological Roles of Connexins in Prostate Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11091370. [PMID: 31540089 PMCID: PMC6770088 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11091370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2019] [Revised: 08/04/2019] [Accepted: 08/08/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Tissue homeostasis is the result of a complex intercellular network controlling the behavior of every cell for the survival of the whole organism. In mammalian tissues, cells do communicate via diverse long- and short-range communication mechanisms. While long-range communication involves hormones through blood circulation and neural transmission, short-range communication mechanisms include either paracrine diffusible factors or direct interactions (e.g., gap junctions, intercellular bridges and tunneling nanotubes) or a mixture of both (e.g., exosomes). Tumor growth represents an alteration of tissue homeostasis and could be the consequence of intercellular network disruption. In this network, direct short-range intercellular communication seems to be particularly involved. The first type of these intercellular communications thought to be involved in cancer progression were gap junctions and their protein subunits, the connexins. From these studies came the general assumption that global decreased connexin expression is correlated to tumor progression and increased cell proliferation. However, this assumption appeared more complicated by the fact that connexins may act also as pro-tumorigenic. Then, the concept that direct intercellular communication could be involved in cancer has been expanded to include new forms of intercellular communication such as tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) and exosomes. TNTs are intercellular bridges that allow free exchange of small molecules or even mitochondria depending on the presence of gap junctions. The majority of current research shows that such exchanges promote cancer progression by increasing resistance to hypoxia and chemotherapy. If exosomes are also involved in these mechanisms, more studies are needed to understand their precise role. Prostate cancer (PCa) represents a type of malignancy with one of the highest incidence rates worldwide. The precise role of these types of direct short-range intercellular communication has been considered in the progression of PCa. However, even though data are in favor of connexins playing a key role in PCa progression, a clear understanding of the role of TNTs and exosomes is needed to define their precise role in this malignancy. This review article summarizes the current view of the main mechanisms involved in short-range intercellular communication and their implications in cancer and delves into the biological, predictive and therapeutic role of connexins in PCa.
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