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Teisseire M, Giuliano S, Pagès G. Combination of Anti-Angiogenics and Immunotherapies in Renal Cell Carcinoma Show Their Limits: Targeting Fibrosis to Break through the Glass Ceiling? Biomedicines 2024; 12:385. [PMID: 38397987 PMCID: PMC10886484 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12020385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
This review explores treating metastatic clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) through current therapeutic modalities-anti-angiogenic therapies and immunotherapies. While these approaches represent the forefront, their limitations and variable patient responses highlight the need to comprehend underlying resistance mechanisms. We specifically investigate the role of fibrosis, prevalent in chronic kidney disease, influencing tumour growth and treatment resistance. Our focus extends to unravelling the intricate interplay between fibrosis, immunotherapy resistance, and the tumour microenvironment for effective therapy development. The analysis centres on connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), revealing its multifaceted role in ccRCC-promoting fibrosis, angiogenesis, and cancer progression. We discuss the potential of targeting CTGF to address the problem of fibrosis in ccRCC. Emphasising the crucial relationship between fibrosis and the immune system in ccRCC, we propose that targeting CTGF holds promise for overcoming obstacles to cancer treatment. However, we recognise that an in-depth understanding of the mechanisms and potential limitations is imperative and, therefore, advocate for further research. This is an essential prerequisite for the successful integration of CTGF-targeted therapies into the clinical landscape.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sandy Giuliano
- University Cote d’Azur (UCA), Institute for Research on Cancer and Aging of Nice, CNRS UMR 7284; INSERM U1081, Centre Antoine Lacassagne, 06189 Nice, France;
| | - Gilles Pagès
- University Cote d’Azur (UCA), Institute for Research on Cancer and Aging of Nice, CNRS UMR 7284; INSERM U1081, Centre Antoine Lacassagne, 06189 Nice, France;
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2
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Tanaka HY, Nakazawa T, Enomoto A, Masamune A, Kano MR. Therapeutic Strategies to Overcome Fibrotic Barriers to Nanomedicine in the Pancreatic Tumor Microenvironment. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15030724. [PMID: 36765684 PMCID: PMC9913712 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15030724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is notorious for its dismal prognosis. The enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect theory posits that nanomedicines (therapeutics in the size range of approximately 10-200 nm) selectively accumulate in tumors. Nanomedicine has thus been suggested to be the "magic bullet"-both effective and safe-to treat pancreatic cancer. However, the densely fibrotic tumor microenvironment of pancreatic cancer impedes nanomedicine delivery. The EPR effect is thus insufficient to achieve a significant therapeutic effect. Intratumoral fibrosis is chiefly driven by aberrantly activated fibroblasts and the extracellular matrix (ECM) components secreted. Fibroblast and ECM abnormalities offer various potential targets for therapeutic intervention. In this review, we detail the diverse strategies being tested to overcome the fibrotic barriers to nanomedicine in pancreatic cancer. Strategies that target the fibrotic tissue/process are discussed first, which are followed by strategies to optimize nanomedicine design. We provide an overview of how a deeper understanding, increasingly at single-cell resolution, of fibroblast biology is revealing the complex role of the fibrotic stroma in pancreatic cancer pathogenesis and consider the therapeutic implications. Finally, we discuss critical gaps in our understanding and how we might better formulate strategies to successfully overcome the fibrotic barriers in pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroyoshi Y. Tanaka
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biomedicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, 1-1-1 Tsushima-naka, Kita-ku, Okayama-shi 700-8530, Okayama, Japan
| | - Takuya Nakazawa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biomedicine, Graduate School of Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering in Health Systems, Okayama University, 1-1-1 Tsushima-naka, Kita-ku, Okayama-shi 700-8530, Okayama, Japan
| | - Atsushi Enomoto
- Department of Pathology, Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya University, 65 Tsurumai-cho, Showa-ku, Nagoya-shi 466-8550, Aichi, Japan
| | - Atsushi Masamune
- Division of Gastroenterology, Graduate School of Medicine, Tohoku University, 1-1 Seiryo-machi, Aoba-ku, Sendai-shi 980-8574, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Mitsunobu R. Kano
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biomedicine, Graduate School of Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering in Health Systems, Okayama University, 1-1-1 Tsushima-naka, Kita-ku, Okayama-shi 700-8530, Okayama, Japan
- Correspondence:
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3
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Espejo C, Wilson R, Pye RJ, Ratcliffe JC, Ruiz-Aravena M, Willms E, Wolfe BW, Hamede R, Hill AF, Jones ME, Woods GM, Lyons AB. Cathelicidin-3 Associated With Serum Extracellular Vesicles Enables Early Diagnosis of a Transmissible Cancer. Front Immunol 2022; 13:858423. [PMID: 35422813 PMCID: PMC9004462 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.858423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
The identification of practical early diagnostic biomarkers is a cornerstone of improved prevention and treatment of cancers. Such a case is devil facial tumor disease (DFTD), a highly lethal transmissible cancer afflicting virtually an entire species, the Tasmanian devil (Sarcophilus harrisii). Despite a latent period that can exceed one year, to date DFTD diagnosis requires visual identification of tumor lesions. To enable earlier diagnosis, which is essential for the implementation of effective conservation strategies, we analyzed the extracellular vesicle (EV) proteome of 87 Tasmanian devil serum samples using data-independent acquisition mass spectrometry approaches. The antimicrobial peptide cathelicidin-3 (CATH3), released by innate immune cells, was enriched in serum EV samples of both devils with clinical DFTD (87.9% sensitivity and 94.1% specificity) and devils with latent infection (i.e., collected while overtly healthy, but 3-6 months before subsequent DFTD diagnosis; 93.8% sensitivity and 94.1% specificity). Although high expression of antimicrobial peptides has been mostly related to inflammatory diseases, our results suggest that they can be also used as accurate cancer biomarkers, suggesting a mechanistic role in tumorous processes. This EV-based approach to biomarker discovery is directly applicable to improving understanding and diagnosis of a broad range of diseases in other species, and these findings directly enhance the capacity of conservation strategies to ensure the viability of the imperiled Tasmanian devil population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camila Espejo
- Tasmanian School of Medicine, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Richard Wilson
- Central Science Laboratory, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Ruth J Pye
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Julian C Ratcliffe
- La Trobe University Bioimaging Platform, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | - Manuel Ruiz-Aravena
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia.,Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT, United States
| | - Eduard Willms
- Department of Biochemistry and Chemistry, School of Agriculture, Biomedicine and Environment, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | - Barrett W Wolfe
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Rodrigo Hamede
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia.,CANECEV, Centre de Recherches Ecologiques et Evolutives sur le Cancer, Montpellier, France
| | - Andrew F Hill
- Department of Biochemistry and Chemistry, School of Agriculture, Biomedicine and Environment, La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia.,Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Footscray, VIC, Australia
| | - Menna E Jones
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Gregory M Woods
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - A Bruce Lyons
- Tasmanian School of Medicine, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
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4
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Bhat IP, Rather TB, Maqbool I, Rashid G, Akhtar K, Bhat GA, Parray FQ, Syed B, Khan IY, Kazi M, Hussain MD, Syed M. Connective tissue growth factor expression hints at aggressive nature of colorectal cancer. World J Gastroenterol 2022; 28:547-569. [PMID: 35316957 PMCID: PMC8905019 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v28.i5.547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 10/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is a mediator of transforming growth factor-beta signaling and plays a key role in connective tissue remodeling, inflammatory processes and fibrosis in various illnesses including cancer.
AIM To investigate the role of CTGF in colorectal cancer (CRC) progression and to compare the CTGF expression with different clinicopathological parameters.
METHODS Real-time polymerase chain reaction, immunohistochemistry and Western blotting was performed to evaluate the CTGF expression and the results were statistically analyzed against the clinicopathological variables of patient data using STATA software version 16.
RESULTS CTGF expression levels in tumor specimens were significantly higher than their paired normal specimens. The higher protein expression levels showed a significant association with smoking, staging, tumor grade, invasion depth, necrosis of tumor tissue, and both lymphovascular and perineural invasion. As per the cox regression model and classification tree analysis, tumor-node-metastasis stage and perineural invasion were important predictors for CTGF expression and prognosis of CRC patients. Survival analysis indicated that CTGF overexpression was associated with poorer overall and disease-free survival.
CONCLUSION Expression of CTGF was increased in CRC and was linked with poor overall and disease-free survival of CRC patients. These findings support prior observations and thus CTGF may be a possible prognostic marker in CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ishrat Parveiz Bhat
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Srinagar 190011, Jammu and Kashmir, India
| | - Tahseen Bilal Rather
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Srinagar 190011, Jammu and Kashmir, India
| | - Irfan Maqbool
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Srinagar 190011, Jammu and Kashmir, India
| | - Gowhar Rashid
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Srinagar 190011, Jammu and Kashmir, India
| | - Kulsum Akhtar
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Srinagar 190011, Jammu and Kashmir, India
| | - Gulzar A Bhat
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Srinagar 190011, Jammu and Kashmir, India
| | - Fazl Q Parray
- Department of General Surgery, Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Srinagar 190011, Jammu and Kashmir, India
| | - Besina Syed
- Department of Pathology, Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Srinagar 190011, Jammu and Kashmir, India
| | - Ishrat Younas Khan
- Department of Pathology, Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Srinagar 190011, Jammu and Kashmir, India
| | - Mohsin Kazi
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, PO Box 2457, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad D Hussain
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, California Health Sciences University, California, CA 93612, United States
| | - Mudassar Syed
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Srinagar 190011, Jammu and Kashmir, India
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Cannon A, Thompson CM, Bhatia R, Armstrong KA, Solheim JC, Kumar S, Batra SK. Molecular mechanisms of pancreatic myofibroblast activation in chronic pancreatitis and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. J Gastroenterol 2021; 56:689-703. [PMID: 34279724 PMCID: PMC9052363 DOI: 10.1007/s00535-021-01800-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic fibrosis (PF) is an essential component of the pathobiology of chronic pancreatitis (CP) and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Activated pancreatic myofibroblasts (PMFs) are crucial for the deposition of the extracellular matrix, and fibrotic reaction in response to sustained signaling. Consequently, understanding of the molecular mechanisms of PMF activation is not only critical for understanding CP and PDAC biology but is also a fertile area of research for the development of novel therapeutic strategies for pancreatic pathologies. This review analyzes the key signaling events that drive PMF activation including, initiating signals from transforming growth factor-β1, platelet derived growth factor, as well as other microenvironmental cues, like hypoxia and extracellular matrix rigidity. Further, we discussed the intracellular signal events contributing to PMF activation, and crosstalk with different components of tumor microenvironment. Additionally, association of epidemiologically established risk factors for CP and PDAC, like alcohol intake, tobacco exposure, and metabolic factors with PMF activation, is discussed to comprehend the role of lifestyle factors on pancreatic pathologies. Overall, this analysis provides insight into the biology of PMF activation and highlights salient features of this process, which offer promising therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Cannon
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 985870 Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA
| | - Christopher Michael Thompson
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 985870 Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA
| | - Rakesh Bhatia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 985870 Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA
| | | | - Joyce Christopher Solheim
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA,Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Sushil Kumar
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 985870 Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA
| | - Surinder Kumar Batra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 985870 Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5870, USA,Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA,Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
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6
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Gu ZT, Li ZZ, Wang CF. Advances in research of extracellular mechanisms underlying gemcitabine resistance in pancreatic cancer. Shijie Huaren Xiaohua Zazhi 2021; 29:421-434. [DOI: 10.11569/wcjd.v29.i8.421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is a solid malignant tumor with the worst prognosis worldwide, and about 90% of cases are pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Although surgical resection is the only potential way to cure PDAC, the overall survival rate after surgery is still not optimistic. Consequently, gemcitabine (GEM)-based chemotherapy is still one of the most important treatment options for PDAC. However, the survival improvement by GEM monotherapy for advanced PDAC is very limited, and GEM resistance is the key reason. The mechanism underlying gemcitabine resistance is complex and still unclear in PDAC. The extensive and dense fibrous mesenchyme in the tumor microenvironment (TME) is an important feature of PDAC. More and more evidence has shown that TME is not only an active participant in tumor growth and spread, but also a contributor to the induction of GEM resistance. This article will review the recent advances in the understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying GEM resistance in PDAC, and discuss potential GEM chemosensitization strategies, in order to improve the effective rate of chemotherapy and the outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zong-Ting Gu
- Cheng-Feng Wang, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology & Department of Pancreatic and Gastric Surgery, National Cancer Center/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Zong-Ze Li
- Cheng-Feng Wang, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology & Department of Pancreatic and Gastric Surgery, National Cancer Center/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
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7
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Li HL, Li QY, Jin MJ, Lu CF, Mu ZY, Xu WY, Song J, Zhang Y, Zhang SY. A review: hippo signaling pathway promotes tumor invasion and metastasis by regulating target gene expression. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2021; 147:1569-1585. [PMID: 33864521 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-021-03604-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Hippo pathway is widely considered to inhibit cell growth and play an important role in regulating the size of organs. However, recent studies have shown that abnormal regulation of the Hippo pathway can also affect tumor invasion and metastasis. Therefore, finding out how the Hippo pathway promotes tumor development by regulating the expression of target genes provides new ideas for future research on targeted drugs that inhibit tumor progression. METHODS PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library were systematically searched. RESULTS The search strategy identified 1892 hits and 196 publications were finally included in this review. As the core molecule of the Hippo pathway, YAP/TAZ are usually highly expressed in tumors that undergo invasion and migration and are accompanied by abnormally strong nuclear metastasis. Through its interaction with nuclear transcription factors TEADs, it directly or indirectly regulates and the expressions of target genes related to tumor metastasis and invasion. These target genes can induce the formation of invasive pseudopodia in tumor cells, reduce intercellular adhesion, degrade extracellular matrix (ECM), and cause epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), or indirectly promote through other signaling pathways, such as mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK), TGF/Smad, etc, which facilitate the invasion and metastasis of tumors. CONCLUSION This article mainly introduces the research progress of YAP/TAZ which are the core molecules of the Hippo pathway regulating related target genes to promote tumor invasion and metastasis. Focus on the target genes that affect tumor invasion and metastasis, providing the possibility for the selection of clinical drug treatment targets, to provide some help for a more in-depth study of tumor invasion and migration mechanism and the development of clinical drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Li Li
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Qian-Yu Li
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Min-Jie Jin
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Chao-Fan Lu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Zhao-Yang Mu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Wei-Yi Xu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Jian Song
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China. .,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies (Ministry of Education), Zhengzhou University, Institute of Drug Discovery and Development, Zhengzhou, 450001, China.
| | - Yan Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China.
| | - Sai-Yang Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China. .,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Advanced Drug Preparation Technologies (Ministry of Education), Zhengzhou University, Institute of Drug Discovery and Development, Zhengzhou, 450001, China. .,Zhengzhou University, Henan Institute of Advanced Technology, Zhengzhou, 450001, China.
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8
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Brouwer TP, Vahrmeijer AL, de Miranda NFCC. Immunotherapy for pancreatic cancer: chasing the light at the end of the tunnel. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2021; 44:261-278. [PMID: 33710604 PMCID: PMC7985121 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-021-00587-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Checkpoint blockade immunotherapy has had a significant impact on the survival of a subset of patients with advanced cancers. It has been particularly effective in immunogenic cancer types that present large numbers of somatic mutations in their genomes. To date, all conventional immunotherapies have failed to produce significant clinical benefits for patients diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, probably due to its poor immunogenic properties, including low numbers of neoantigens and highly immune-suppressive microenvironments. CONCLUSIONS Herein, we discuss advances that have recently been made in cancer immunotherapy and the potential of this field to deliver effective treatment options for pancreatic cancer patients. Preclinical investigations, combining different types of therapies, highlight possibilities to enhance anti-tumor immunity and to generate meaningful clinical responses in pancreatic cancer patients. Results from completed and ongoing (pre)clinical trials are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas P Brouwer
- Department of Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.,Department of Pathology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA, Leiden, The Netherlands, PO Box 9600, 2300 RC
| | | | - Noel F C C de Miranda
- Department of Pathology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA, Leiden, The Netherlands, PO Box 9600, 2300 RC.
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Leask A. A centralized communication network: Recent insights into the role of the cancer associated fibroblast in the development of drug resistance in tumors. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2020; 101:111-114. [DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2019.10.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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10
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CCN-Based Therapeutic Peptides Modify Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma Microenvironment and Decrease Tumor Growth in Combination with Chemotherapy. Cells 2020; 9:cells9040952. [PMID: 32294968 PMCID: PMC7226963 DOI: 10.3390/cells9040952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2020] [Revised: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The prominent desmoplastic stroma of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a determinant factor in tumor progression and a major barrier to the access of chemotherapy. The PDAC microenvironment therefore appears to be a promising therapeutic target. CCN2/CTGF is a profibrotic matricellular protein, highly present in the PDAC microenvironment and associated with disease progression. Here we have investigated the therapeutic value of the CCN2-targeting BLR100 and BLR200, two modified synthetic peptides derived from active regions of CCN3, an endogenous inhibitor of CCN2. In a murine orthotopic PDAC model, the two peptides, administered as monotherapy at low doses (approximating physiological levels of CCN3), had tumor inhibitory activity that increased with the dose. The peptides affected the tumor microenvironment, inhibiting fibrosis and vessel formation and reducing necrosis. Both peptides were active in preventing ascites formation. An increased activity was obtained in combination regimens, administering BLR100 or BLR200 with the chemotherapeutic drug gemcitabine. Pharmacokinetic analysis indicated that the improved activity of the combination was not mainly determined by the substantial increase in gemcitabine delivery to tumors, suggesting other effects on the tumor microenvironment. The beneficial remodeling of the tumor stroma supports the potential value of these CCN3-derived peptides for targeting pathways regulated by CCN2 in PDAC.
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11
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Obaidi I, Higgins M, Bahar B, Davis JL, McMorrow T. Identification of the Multifaceted Chemopreventive Activity of Curcumin Against the Carcinogenic Potential of the Food Additive, KBrO3. Curr Pharm Des 2019; 24:595-614. [PMID: 29278208 PMCID: PMC6204662 DOI: 10.2174/1381612824666171226143201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2017] [Revised: 12/05/2017] [Accepted: 12/11/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Background: Potassium bromate (KBrO3), a food additive, has been used in many bakery products as an oxidizing agent. It has been shown to induce renal cancer in many in-vitro and in-vivo experimental models Objectives: This study evaluated the carcinogenic potential of potassium bromate (KBrO3) and the chemopreventive mechanisms of the anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory phytochemical, curcumin against KBrO3-induced carcinogenicity. Method: Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) cytotoxicity assay and morphological characteristics were used to assess curcumin's cytoprotective potential against KBrO3 toxicity. To assess the chemopreventive potential of curcumin against KBrO3-induced oxidative insult, intracellular H2O2 and the nuclear concen-tration of the DNA adduct 8-OHdG were measured. PCR array, qRT-PCR, and western blot analysis were used to identify dysregulated genes by KBrO3 exposure. Furthermore, immunofluorescence was used to evaluate the ciliary loss and the disturbance of cellular tight junction induced by KBrO3. Results: Oxidative stress assays showed that KBrO3 increased the levels of intracellular H2O2 and the DNA adduct 8-OHdG. Combination of curcumin with KBrO3 efficiently reduced the level of H2O2 and 8-OHdG while up-regulating the expression of catalase. PCR array, qRT-PCR, and western blot analysis revealed that KBrO3 dysregulated multiple genes involved in inflammation, proliferation, and apoptosis, namely CTGF, IL-1, and TRAF3. Moreover, qRT-PCR and immunofluorescence studies showed that KBrO3 negatively affected the tight junctional protein (ZO-1) and induced a degeneration of primary ciliary proteins. The negative impact of KBrO3 on cilia was markedly repressed by curcumin. Conclusion: Curcumin could potentially be used as a protective agent against carcinogenicity of KBrO3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ismael Obaidi
- UCD Centre for Toxicology, School of Biomedical and Biomolecular Sciences, Conway Institute, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.,School of Pharmacy, University of Babylon, Babylon, Iraq
| | - Michael Higgins
- UCD Centre for Toxicology, School of Biomedical and Biomolecular Sciences, Conway Institute, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Bojlul Bahar
- International Institute of Nutritional Sciences and Applied Food Safety Studies, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, PR1 2HE, United Kingdom
| | - Jessica L Davis
- UCD Centre for Toxicology, School of Biomedical and Biomolecular Sciences, Conway Institute, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Tara McMorrow
- UCD Centre for Toxicology, School of Biomedical and Biomolecular Sciences, Conway Institute, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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New Horizons in the Treatment of Metastatic Pancreatic Cancer: A Review of the Key Biology Features and the Most Recent Advances to Treat Metastatic Pancreatic Cancer. Target Oncol 2018; 13:691-704. [DOI: 10.1007/s11523-018-0609-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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13
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Can insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), IGF-1 receptor connective tissue growth factor and Ki-67 labelling index have a prognostic role in pulmonary carcinoids? Oncotarget 2018; 9:22653-22664. [PMID: 29854305 PMCID: PMC5978255 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.25203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2017] [Accepted: 02/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Altered expression of Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 (IGF-1), its receptor (IGF-1R), Connective Tissue Growth Factor (CTGF) and Hypoxia Inducible Factor-1 (HIF-1), has been implicated in tumorigenesis. So far, these factors have not been studied systematically in Pulmonary Carcinoids (PCs). Aims To examine IGF-1, IGF-1R, CTGF and HIF-1 expression in PCs, and assess their prognostic value over established factors. Materials & Methods Retrospective study of 121 PCs (104 Typical and 17 Atypical). The expression of growth factors was studied immunohistochemically and tumors were considered positive if immunoreactivity appeared in >50% of cells. Results All studied parameters were expressed in the majority of tumors (IGF-1, IGF-1R, CTGF and HIF-1, in 78.5%, 67%, 72% and 78%, respectively). Their expression tended to be more frequent in TCs and in tumors with Ki-67≤2% (significant only for HIF-1; 82 vs. 53%; p=0.023 and 83 vs. 63%; p=0.025 respectively). CTGF was the only factor correlated with more extensive disease (larger size; presence of lymph node and distant metastases). According to logistic regression analysis, only advanced age, Ki-67≥3.4% and lymph node involvement could predict the development of distant metastases. Conclusions IGF-1, IGF-1R, CTGF and HIF-1 are avidly expressed in PCs; however, their presence did not appear to be of statistically significant value over established prognostic factors.
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Saik OV, Demenkov PS, Ivanisenko TV, Bragina EY, Freidin MB, Goncharova IA, Dosenko VE, Zolotareva OI, Hofestaedt R, Lavrik IN, Rogaev EI, Ivanisenko VA. Novel candidate genes important for asthma and hypertension comorbidity revealed from associative gene networks. BMC Med Genomics 2018; 11:15. [PMID: 29504915 PMCID: PMC6389037 DOI: 10.1186/s12920-018-0331-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hypertension and bronchial asthma are a major issue for people's health. As of 2014, approximately one billion adults, or ~ 22% of the world population, have had hypertension. As of 2011, 235-330 million people globally have been affected by asthma and approximately 250,000-345,000 people have died each year from the disease. The development of the effective treatment therapies against these diseases is complicated by their comorbidity features. This is often a major problem in diagnosis and their treatment. Hence, in this study the bioinformatical methodology for the analysis of the comorbidity of these two diseases have been developed. As such, the search for candidate genes related to the comorbid conditions of asthma and hypertension can help in elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying the comorbid condition of these two diseases, and can also be useful for genotyping and identifying new drug targets. RESULTS Using ANDSystem, the reconstruction and analysis of gene networks associated with asthma and hypertension was carried out. The gene network of asthma included 755 genes/proteins and 62,603 interactions, while the gene network of hypertension - 713 genes/proteins and 45,479 interactions. Two hundred and five genes/proteins and 9638 interactions were shared between asthma and hypertension. An approach for ranking genes implicated in the comorbid condition of two diseases was proposed. The approach is based on nine criteria for ranking genes by their importance, including standard methods of gene prioritization (Endeavor, ToppGene) as well as original criteria that take into account the characteristics of an associative gene network and the presence of known polymorphisms in the analysed genes. According to the proposed approach, the genes IL10, TLR4, and CAT had the highest priority in the development of comorbidity of these two diseases. Additionally, it was revealed that the list of top genes is enriched with apoptotic genes and genes involved in biological processes related to the functioning of central nervous system. CONCLUSIONS The application of methods of reconstruction and analysis of gene networks is a productive tool for studying the molecular mechanisms of comorbid conditions. The method put forth to rank genes by their importance to the comorbid condition of asthma and hypertension was employed that resulted in prediction of 10 genes, playing the key role in the development of the comorbid condition. The results can be utilised to plan experiments for identification of novel candidate genes along with searching for novel pharmacological targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga V. Saik
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Pavel S. Demenkov
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Timofey V. Ivanisenko
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Elena Yu Bragina
- Research Institute of Medical Genetics, Tomsk NRMC, Tomsk, Russia
| | - Maxim B. Freidin
- Research Institute of Medical Genetics, Tomsk NRMC, Tomsk, Russia
| | | | | | - Olga I. Zolotareva
- Bielefeld University, International Research Training Group “Computational Methods for the Analysis of the Diversity and Dynamics of Genomes”, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Ralf Hofestaedt
- Bielefeld University, Technical Faculty, AG Bioinformatics and Medical Informatics, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Inna N. Lavrik
- Department of Translational Inflammation, Institute of Experimental Internal Medicine, Otto von Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Evgeny I. Rogaev
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
- University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA USA
- Department of Genomics and Human Genetics, Institute of General Genetics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
- Center for Genetics and Genetic Technologies, Faculty of Biology, Faculty of Bioengineering and Bioinformatics, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Vladimir A. Ivanisenko
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
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15
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Surgical strategies and novel therapies for locally advanced pancreatic cancer. J Surg Oncol 2017; 116:16-24. [DOI: 10.1002/jso.24654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2017] [Accepted: 03/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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16
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Kiwanuka E, Junker JP, Eriksson E. Transforming growth factor β1 regulates the expression of CCN2 in human keratinocytes via Smad-ERK signalling. Int Wound J 2017; 14:1006-1018. [PMID: 28371159 DOI: 10.1111/iwj.12749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2017] [Accepted: 03/04/2017] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Connective tissue growth factor (CCN2/CTGF) and transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) are important regulators of skin wound healing, but controversy remains regarding their expression in epithelial cell lineages. Here, we investigate the expression of CCN2 in keratinocytes during reepithelialisation and its regulation by TGF-β1. CCN2 was detected in the epidermis of healing full-thickness porcine wounds. Human keratinocytes were incubated with or without 10 ng/ml TGF-β1, and signalling pathways were blocked with 10-μM SIS3 or 20-μM PD98059. Semi-quantitative real-time PCR was used to study CCN2 mRNA expression, and western blot was used to measure CCN2, phosphorylated-ERK1/2, ERK1/2, phosphorylated-Smad3 and Smad2/3 proteins. CCN2 was transiently expressed in neoepidermis at the leading edge of the wound in vivo. In vitro, CCN2 expression was induced by TGF-β1 at 2 hours (7·5 ± 1·9-fold mRNA increase and 3·0 ± 0·6-fold protein increase) and 12 hours (5·4 ± 1·9-fold mRNA increase and 3·3 ± 0·6-fold protein increase). Compared with inhibiting the SMAD pathway, inhibiting the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway was more effective in reducing TGF-β1-induced CCN2 mRNA and protein expression. Inhibition of the MAPK pathway had minimal impact on the activity of the SMAD pathway. CCN2 is expressed in keratinocytes in response to tissue injury or TGF-β1. In addition, TGF-β1 induces CCN2 expression in keratinocytes through the ras/MEK/ERK pathway. A complete understanding of CCN2 expression in keratinocytes is critical to developing novel therapies for wound healing and cutaneous malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Kiwanuka
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University School of Medicine, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Johan Pe Junker
- Center for Disaster Medicine and Traumatology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Linköping University Hospital, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Elof Eriksson
- Division of Plastic Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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17
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Piszczatowski RT, Lents NH. Regulation of the CCN genes by vitamin D: A possible adjuvant therapy in the treatment of cancer and fibrosis. Cell Signal 2016; 28:1604-13. [PMID: 27460560 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2016.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2016] [Revised: 07/18/2016] [Accepted: 07/19/2016] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
The CCN family is composed of six cysteine-rich, modular, and conserved proteins whose functions span a variety of tissues and include cell proliferation, adhesion, angiogenesis, and wound healing. Roles for the CCN proteins throughout the entire body including the skin, kidney, brain, blood vessels, hematopoietic compartment and others, are continuously being elucidated. Likewise, an understanding of the regulation of this important gene family is constantly becoming clearer, through identification of transcription factors that directly activate, repress, or respond to upstream cell signaling pathways, as well as other forms of gene expression control. Vitamin D (1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 or calcitriol), a vitamin essential for numerous biological processes, acts as a potent gene expression modulator. The regulation of the CCN gene family members by calcitriol has been described in many contexts. Here, we provide a concise and thorough overview of what is known about calcitriol and its regulation of the CCN genes, and argue that its regulation is of physiological importance in a wide breadth of tissues in which CCN genes function. In addition, we highlight the effects of vitamin D on CCN gene expression in the setting of two common pathologic conditions, fibrosis and cancer, and propose that the therapeutic effects of vitamin D3 described in these disease states may in part be attributable to CCN gene modulation. As vitamin D is perfectly safe in a wide range of doses and already showing promise as an adjuvant therapeutic agent, a deeper understanding of its control of CCN gene expression may have profound implications in clinical management of disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nathan H Lents
- Department of Sciences, John Jay College, The City University of New York, New York, NY 10019, USA.
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18
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Huang Q, Wei H, Wu Z, Li L, Yao L, Sun Z, Li L, Lin Z, Xu W, Han S, Cao W, Xu Y, Song D, Yang X, Xiao J. Preferentially Expressed Antigen of Melanoma Prevents Lung Cancer Metastasis. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0149640. [PMID: 27391090 PMCID: PMC4938541 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0149640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2015] [Accepted: 02/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer is the most common cause of cancer death worldwide. The poor survival rate is largely due to the extensive local invasion and metastasis. However, the mechanisms underlying the invasion and metastasis of lung cancer cells remain largely elusive. In this study, we examined the role of preferentially expressed antigen of melanoma (PRAME) in lung cancer metastasis. Our results show that PRAME is downregulated in lung adenocarcinoma and lung bone metastasis compared with normal human lung. Knockdown of PRAME decreases the expression of E-Cadherin and promotes the proliferation, invasion, and metastasis of lung cancer cells by regulating multiple critical genes, most of which are related to cell migration, including MMP1, CCL2, CTGF, and PLAU. Clinical data analysis reveals that the expression of MMP1 correlates with the clinical features and outcome of lung adenocarcinoma. Taken together, our data demonstrate that PRAME plays a role in preventing the invasion and metastasis of lung adenocarcinoma and novel diagnostic or therapeutic strategies can be developed by targeting PRAME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quan Huang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, China
- Department of Orthopedic Oncology, Changzheng Hospital, The Second Military Medical University, No. 415 Fengyang Road, Shanghai, 200003, China
| | - Haifeng Wei
- Department of Orthopedic Oncology, Changzheng Hospital, The Second Military Medical University, No. 415 Fengyang Road, Shanghai, 200003, China
- * E-mail: (YFX); (DWS); (HFW); (XHY); (JRX)
| | - Zhipeng Wu
- Department of Orthopedic Oncology, Changzheng Hospital, The Second Military Medical University, No. 415 Fengyang Road, Shanghai, 200003, China
| | - Lin Li
- Department of Orthopedic Oncology, Changzheng Hospital, The Second Military Medical University, No. 415 Fengyang Road, Shanghai, 200003, China
| | - Liangfang Yao
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Zhengwang Sun
- Department of Orthopedic Oncology, Changzheng Hospital, The Second Military Medical University, No. 415 Fengyang Road, Shanghai, 200003, China
| | - Lei Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Regulatory Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, China
- Department of Orthopedic Oncology, Changzheng Hospital, The Second Military Medical University, No. 415 Fengyang Road, Shanghai, 200003, China
| | - Zaijun Lin
- Department of Orthopedic Oncology, Changzheng Hospital, The Second Military Medical University, No. 415 Fengyang Road, Shanghai, 200003, China
| | - Wei Xu
- Department of Orthopedic Oncology, Changzheng Hospital, The Second Military Medical University, No. 415 Fengyang Road, Shanghai, 200003, China
| | - Shuai Han
- Department of Orthopedic Oncology, Changzheng Hospital, The Second Military Medical University, No. 415 Fengyang Road, Shanghai, 200003, China
| | - Wenjiao Cao
- The International Peace Maternity& Child Health Hospital of China welfare institute (IPMCH), Shanghai, China
| | - Yunfei Xu
- Urology Department, Tenth People's Hospital of Tongji University, Shanghai, PR China
- * E-mail: (YFX); (DWS); (HFW); (XHY); (JRX)
| | - Dianwen Song
- Department of Orthopedic Oncology, Changzheng Hospital, The Second Military Medical University, No. 415 Fengyang Road, Shanghai, 200003, China
- * E-mail: (YFX); (DWS); (HFW); (XHY); (JRX)
| | - Xinghai Yang
- Department of Orthopedic Oncology, Changzheng Hospital, The Second Military Medical University, No. 415 Fengyang Road, Shanghai, 200003, China
- * E-mail: (YFX); (DWS); (HFW); (XHY); (JRX)
| | - Jianru Xiao
- Department of Orthopedic Oncology, Changzheng Hospital, The Second Military Medical University, No. 415 Fengyang Road, Shanghai, 200003, China
- * E-mail: (YFX); (DWS); (HFW); (XHY); (JRX)
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19
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Chen CN, Chang CC, Lai HS, Jeng YM, Chen CI, Chang KJ, Lee PH, Lee H. Connective tissue growth factor inhibits gastric cancer peritoneal metastasis by blocking integrin α3β1-dependent adhesion. Gastric Cancer 2015; 18:504-15. [PMID: 24985492 DOI: 10.1007/s10120-014-0400-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2014] [Accepted: 06/11/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) plays important roles in normal and pathological conditions. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of CTGF in peritoneal metastasis as well as the underlying mechanism in gastric cancer progression. METHODS CTGF expression levels for wild-type and stable overexpression clones were determined by Western blotting and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (Q-PCR). Univariate and multivariate analyses, immunohistochemistry, and survival probability analyses were performed on gastric cancer patients. The extracellular matrix components involved in CTGF-regulated adhesion were determined. Recombinant CTGF was added to cells or coinoculated with gastric cancer cells into mice to evaluate its therapeutic potential. RESULTS CTGF overexpression and treatment with the recombinant protein significantly inhibited cell adhesion. In vivo peritoneal metastasis demonstrated that CTGF-stable transfectants markedly decreased the number and size of tumor nodules in the mesentery. Statistical analysis of gastric cancer patient data showed that patients expressing higher CTGF levels had earlier TNM staging and a higher survival probability after the surgery. Integrin α3β1 was the cell adhesion molecule mediating gastric cancer cell adhesion to laminin, and blocking of integrin α3β1 prevented gastric cancer cell adhesion to recombinant CTGF. Coimmunoprecipitation results indicated that CTGF binds to integrin α3. Coinoculation of recombinant CTGF and gastric cancer cell lines in mice showed effective inhibition of peritoneal dissemination. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggested that gastric cancer peritoneal metastasis is mediated through integrin α3β1 binding to laminin, and CTGF effectively blocks the interaction by binding to integrin α3β1, thus demonstrating the therapeutic potential of recombinant CTGF in gastric cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiung-Nien Chen
- Department of Surgery, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan,
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20
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GUO YIHANG, LI XIAORONG, LIN CHANGWEI, ZHANG YI, HU GUI, ZHOU JIANYU, DU JUAN, GAO KAI, GAN YI, DENG HAO. MicroRNA-133b inhibits connective tissue growth factor in colorectal cancer and correlates with the clinical stage of the disease. Mol Med Rep 2014; 11:2805-12. [DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2014.3075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2014] [Accepted: 11/14/2014] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
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21
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Wells JE, Howlett M, Cole CH, Kees UR. Deregulated expression of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2) is linked to poor outcome in human cancer. Int J Cancer 2014; 137:504-11. [PMID: 24832082 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.28972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2013] [Revised: 04/13/2014] [Accepted: 05/02/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2) has long been associated with human cancers. The role it plays in these neoplasms is diverse and tumour specific. Recurring patterns in clinical outcome, histological desmoplasia and mechanisms of action have been found. When CTGF is overexpressed compared to low-expressing normal tissue or is underexpressed compared to high-expressing normal tissue, the functional outcome favours tumour survival and disease progression. CTGF acts by altering proliferation, drug resistance, angiogenesis, adhesion and migration contributing to metastasis. The pattern of CTGF expression and tumour response helps to clarify the role of this matricellular protein across a multitude of human cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia E Wells
- Leukaemia and Cancer Division, Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia.,School of Paediatrics and Child Health, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Meegan Howlett
- Leukaemia and Cancer Division, Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Catherine H Cole
- School of Paediatrics and Child Health, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Ursula R Kees
- Leukaemia and Cancer Division, Telethon Kids Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
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22
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Tsai HC, Huang CY, Su HL, Tang CH. CTGF increases drug resistance to paclitaxel by upregulating survivin expression in human osteosarcoma cells. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2014; 1843:846-54. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2014.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2013] [Revised: 12/31/2013] [Accepted: 01/05/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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23
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Tsai HC, Huang CY, Su HL, Tang CH. CCN2 enhances resistance to cisplatin-mediating cell apoptosis in human osteosarcoma. PLoS One 2014; 9:e90159. [PMID: 24637722 PMCID: PMC3956456 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0090159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2013] [Accepted: 01/26/2014] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Osteosarcoma (OS) is the most common form of malignant bone tumor and is an aggressive malignant neoplasm exhibiting osteoblastic differentiation. Cisplatin is one of the most efficacious antitumor drugs for osteosarcoma patients. However, treatment failures are common due to the development of chemoresistance. CCN2 (also known as CTGF), is a secreted protein that binds to integrins, modulates the invasive behavior of certain human cancer cells. However, the effect of CCN2 in cisplatin-mediated chemotherapy is still unknown. Here, we found that CCN2 was upregulated in human osteosarcoma cells after treatment with cisplatin. Moreover, overexpression of CCN2 increased the resistance to cisplatin-mediated cell apoptosis. In contrast, reduction of CCN2 by CCN2 shRNA promoted the chemotherapeutic effect of cisplatin. We also found that CCN2 provided resistance to cisplatin-induced apoptosis through upregulation of Bcl-xL and survivin. Knockdown of Bcl-xL or survivin removed the CCN2-mediated resistance to apoptosis induced by cisplatin. On the other hand, CCN2 also promoted FAK, MEK, and ERK survival signaling pathways to enhance tumor survival during cisplatin treatment. In a mouse xenograft model, overexpression of CCN2 promoted resistance to cisplatin. However, knockdown of CCN2 increased the therapeutic effect of cisplatin. Therefore, our data suggest that CCN2 might be a critical oncogene of human osteosarcoma for cisplatin-resistance and supported osteosarcoma cell growth in vivo and in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsiao-Chi Tsai
- Department of Life Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Yin Huang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, China Medical University Beigang Hospital, Yun-Lin County, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Science, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Hong-Lin Su
- Department of Life Sciences, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
- * E-mail: (HLS); (CHT)
| | - Chih-Hsin Tang
- Graduate Institute of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Health Science, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan
- * E-mail: (HLS); (CHT)
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24
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Tan F, Thiele CJ, Li Z. Collapsin response mediator proteins: Potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in cancers (Review). Oncol Lett 2014; 7:1333-1340. [PMID: 24765134 PMCID: PMC3997700 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2014.1909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2013] [Accepted: 02/07/2014] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The collapsin response mediator proteins (CRMPs) were originally identified as mediators of semaphorin 3A signaling and neuronal differentiation. The CRMP family consists of five homologous cytosolic proteins, CRMP1-5. Altered expression levels of CRMPs have been observed in several malignant tumors, including lung, breast, colorectal, prostate, pancreatic and neuroendocrine lung cancer. The aim of the current study was to review the recent progress achieved in understanding the association between the different levels of CRMP expression in tumors and their involvement in pathological functions, such as tumor metastasis, disease progression, subtype differentiation and clinical outcome, to address the potential value of CRMPs as biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Tan
- Department of Neurology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110004, P.R. China
| | - Carol J Thiele
- Cell and Molecular Biology Section, Pediatric Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Zhijie Li
- Research Center for Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110004, P.R. China
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Abstract
The CCN genes encode secreted signaling proteins that participate in fundamental processes including cell adhesion, proliferation and differentiation, embryogenesis, tissue remodeling and patterning. Abnormal expression of CCN proteins is associated with several pathological conditions, including vascular diseases, fibrosis and cancer. Understanding the structural and functional basis for the variety of biological properties attributed to CCN proteins is an important challenge. It will help the understanding of their roles in the control of cellular proliferation, differentiation and death, thereby allowing their use for early diagnosis and therapy. In an attempt to evaluate the relevance of CCN3 as a useful tool in modern biomedical technologies, the biological properties of the CCN proteins and the data that established their potential usefulness will briefly be reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernard Perbal
- Laboratoire d'Oncologie, Virale et Moléculaire, UFR de Biochimie, Université Paris 7-D. Diderot, 2 Place Jussieu 75 005, Paris, France.
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26
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Neesse A, Frese KK, Bapiro TE, Nakagawa T, Sternlicht MD, Seeley TW, Pilarsky C, Jodrell DI, Spong SM, Tuveson DA. CTGF antagonism with mAb FG-3019 enhances chemotherapy response without increasing drug delivery in murine ductal pancreas cancer. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2013; 110:12325-30. [PMID: 23836645 PMCID: PMC3725120 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1300415110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 214] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) is characterized by abundant desmoplasia and poor tissue perfusion. These features are proposed to limit the access of therapies to neoplastic cells and blunt treatment efficacy. Indeed, several agents that target the PDA tumor microenvironment promote concomitant chemotherapy delivery and increased antineoplastic response in murine models of PDA. Prior studies could not determine whether chemotherapy delivery or microenvironment modulation per se were the dominant features in treatment response, and such information could guide the optimal translation of these preclinical findings to patients. To distinguish between these possibilities, we used a chemical inhibitor of cytidine deaminase to stabilize and thereby artificially elevate gemcitabine levels in murine PDA tumors without disrupting the tumor microenvironment. Additionally, we used the FG-3019 monoclonal antibody (mAb) that is directed against the pleiotropic matricellular signaling protein connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2). Inhibition of cytidine deaminase raised the levels of activated gemcitabine within PDA tumors without stimulating neoplastic cell killing or decreasing the growth of tumors, whereas FG-3019 increased PDA cell killing and led to a dramatic tumor response without altering gemcitabine delivery. The response to FG-3019 correlated with the decreased expression of a previously described promoter of PDA chemotherapy resistance, the X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein. Therefore, alterations in survival cues following targeting of tumor microenvironmental factors may play an important role in treatment responses in animal models, and by extension in PDA patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albrecht Neesse
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0RE, United Kingdom
- Department of Gastroenterology, Endocrinology, and Metabolism, Philipps University Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany
| | - Kristopher K. Frese
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0RE, United Kingdom
| | - Tashinga E. Bapiro
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0RE, United Kingdom
- Department of Oncology, University of Cambridge, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, United Kingdom
| | - Tomoaki Nakagawa
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0RE, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Christian Pilarsky
- Department of General, Thoracic, and Vascular Surgery, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technical University Dresden, 01307 Dresden, Germany; and
| | - Duncan I. Jodrell
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0RE, United Kingdom
- Department of Oncology, University of Cambridge, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, United Kingdom
| | | | - David A. Tuveson
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0RE, United Kingdom
- Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724
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Leask A. CCN2: a novel, specific and valid target for anti-fibrotic drug intervention. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2013; 17:1067-71. [PMID: 23848501 DOI: 10.1517/14728222.2013.812074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Prior attempts at developing anti-fibrotic therapies have focused on using growth factors and cytokines as targets. However, growth factors and cytokines have effects on normal physiology as well as fibrosis, making effective drug development difficult. AREAS COVERED Matricellular proteins alter the cellular microenvironment and hence cellular signaling responses to cytokines and growth factors. A survey of Pubmed reveals that the expression pattern of matricellular proteins notably that of CCN2 (connective tissue growth factor) is often altered in pathophysiological conditions such as fibrosis. Moreover, data presented in recent publications suggests that CCN2 directly mediates fibrosis. EXPERT OPINION As a result of these features, matricellular proteins such as CCN2, a member of the CCN family of matricellular proteins, might be ideal targets against which to develop novel therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Leask
- The University of Western Ontario, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Schulich Dentistry, London, Ontario, N6A 5C1, Canada.
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Tumour-microenvironment interactions: role of tumour stroma and proteins produced by cancer-associated fibroblasts in chemotherapy response. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2013; 36:95-112. [PMID: 23494412 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-013-0127-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/13/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cytotoxic chemotherapy improves survival for some, but not all, cancer patients. Non-responders may experience unnecessary toxicity and cancer progression, thus creating an urgent need for biomarkers that can predict the response to chemotherapy. So far, the search for such biomarkers has primarily been focused on the cancer cells and less on their surrounding stroma. This stroma is known to act as a key regulator of tumour progression and, in addition, has been associated with drug delivery and drug efficacy. Fibroblasts represent the major cell type in cancer-associated stroma and they secrete extracellular matrix proteins as well as growth factors. This Medline-based literature review summarises the results from studies on epithelial cancers and aimed at investigating relationships between the quantity and quality of the intra-tumoral stroma, the cancer-associated fibroblasts, the proteins they produce and the concomitant response to chemotherapy. Biomarkers were selected for review that are known to affect cancer-related characteristics and patient prognosis. RESULTS The current literature supports the hypothesis that biomarkers derived from the tumour stroma may be useful to predict response to chemotherapy. This notion appears to be related to the overall quantity and cellularity of the intra-tumoural stroma and the predominant constituents of the extracellular matrix. CONCLUSION Increasing evidence is emerging showing that tumour-stroma interactions may not only affect tumour progression and patient prognosis, but also the response to chemotherapy. The tumour stroma-derived biomarkers that appear to be most appropriate to determine the patient's response to chemotherapy vary by tumour origin and the availability of pre-treatment tissue. For patients scheduled for adjuvant chemotherapy, the most promising biomarker appears to be the PLAU: SERPINE complex, whereas for patients scheduled for neo-adjuvant chemotherapy the tumour stroma quantity appears to be most relevant.
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Kidd M, Schimmack S, Lawrence B, Alaimo D, Modlin IM. EGFR/TGFα and TGFβ/CTGF Signaling in Neuroendocrine Neoplasia: Theoretical Therapeutic Targets. Neuroendocrinology 2013; 97:35-44. [PMID: 22710195 PMCID: PMC3684083 DOI: 10.1159/000334891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2011] [Accepted: 11/06/2011] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) are a heterogeneous family of malignancies whose proliferation is partially dependent on growth factors secreted by the microenvironment and the tumor itself. Growth factors which were demonstrated to be important in experimental models of NENs include EGF (epidermal growth factor), TGF (transforming growth factor) α, TGFβ and CTGF (connective tissue growth factor). EGF and TGFα bind to the EGF receptor to stimulate an intact RAS/RAF/MAPK pathway, leading to the transcription of genes associated with cell proliferation, invasion and metastasis. Theoretically, TGFα stimulation can be inhibited at several points of the MAPK pathway, but success is limited to NEN models and is not evident in the clinical setting. TGFβ1 stimulates TGFβ receptors (TGFβRI and TGFβRII) resulting in inhibition of neuroendocrine cell growth through SMAD-mediated activation of the growth inhibitor P21(WAF1/CIP1). Although some NENs are inhibited by TGFβ1, paradoxical growth is seen in experimental models of gastric and small intestinal (SI) NENs. Therapeutic targeting of TGFβ1 in NENs is therefore complicated by uncertainty of the effect of TGFβ1 secretion on the direction of proliferative regulation. CTGF expression is associated with more malignant clinical phenotypes in a variety of cancers, including NENs. CTGF promotes growth in gastric and SI-NEN models, and is implicated as a mediator of local and distant fibrosis caused by NENs of enterochromaffin cell origin. CTGF inhibitors are available, but their anti-proliferative effect has not been tested in NENs. In summary, growth factors are essential for NEN proliferation, and although interventions targeting these proteins are effective in experimental models, only limited clinical efficacy has been identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Kidd
- Gastrointestinal Pathobiology Research Group, Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520-8062, USA
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Regulation of pancreatic function by connective tissue growth factor (CTGF, CCN2). Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2012; 24:59-68. [PMID: 22884427 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2012.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2012] [Revised: 07/11/2012] [Accepted: 07/18/2012] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2) is a cysteine-rich matricellular secreted protein that regulates diverse cell functions including adhesion, migration, proliferation, differentiation, survival, senescence and apoptosis. In the pancreas, CTGF/CCN2 regulates critical functions including β cell replication during embryogenesis, stimulation of fibrogenic pathways in pancreatic stellate cells during pancreatitis, and regulation of the epithelial and stromal components in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. This article reviews the evidence establishing CTGF/CCN2 as an important player in pancreatic physiology and pathology, highlighting the specific cell types that are involved in each process and the importance of CTGF/CCN2 as a component of autocrine or paracrine signaling within or between these various cells. Translational applications, including the potential for CTGF/CCN2-based therapies in diabetes, fibrosis, or cancer, are discussed.
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Eguchi D, Ikenaga N, Ohuchida K, Kozono S, Cui L, Fujiwara K, Fujino M, Ohtsuka T, Mizumoto K, Tanaka M. Hypoxia enhances the interaction between pancreatic stellate cells and cancer cells via increased secretion of connective tissue growth factor. J Surg Res 2012; 181:225-33. [PMID: 22795353 DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2012.06.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2012] [Revised: 06/19/2012] [Accepted: 06/21/2012] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pancreatic cancer (PC), a hypovascular tumor, thrives under hypoxic conditions. Pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) promote PC progression by secreting soluble factors, but their functions in hypoxia are poorly understood. This study aimed to clarify the effects of hypoxic conditions on the interaction between PC cells and PSCs. METHODS We isolated human PSCs from fresh pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas and analyzed functional differences in PSCs between normoxia (21% O2) and hypoxia (1% O2), including expression of various factors related to tumor-stromal interactions. We particularly analyzed effects on PC invasiveness of an overexpressed molecule-connective tissue growth factor (CTGF)-in PSCs under hypoxic conditions, using RNA interference techniques. RESULTS Conditioned media from hypoxic PSCs enhanced PC cell invasiveness more intensely than that from normoxic PSCs (P < 0.01). When co-cultured with PSCs, PC cell invasion was more enhanced under hypoxia than under normoxia (P < 0.05). Among various soluble factors, which were related to invasiveness, CTGF was one of the overexpressed molecules in hypoxic PSCs. A higher level of CTGF expression was also found in supernatant of hypoxic PSCs than in supernatant of normoxic PSCs. PC cell invasiveness was reduced by CTGF knockdown in hypoxic PSCs co-cultured with PC cells (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION Hypoxia induces PSCs' secretion of CTGF, leading to enhancement of PC invasiveness. CTGF derived from hypoxia-stimulated PSCs may be a new therapeutic target for pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daiki Eguchi
- Departments of Surgery and Oncology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
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Capparelli C, Whitaker-Menezes D, Guido C, Balliet R, Pestell TG, Howell A, Sneddon S, Pestell RG, Martinez-Outschoorn U, Lisanti MP, Sotgia F. CTGF drives autophagy, glycolysis and senescence in cancer-associated fibroblasts via HIF1 activation, metabolically promoting tumor growth. Cell Cycle 2012; 11:2272-84. [PMID: 22684333 PMCID: PMC3383589 DOI: 10.4161/cc.20717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have demonstrated that loss of caveolin-1 (Cav-1) in stromal cells drives the activation of the TGF-β signaling, with increased transcription of TGF-β target genes, such as connective tissue growth factor (CTGF). In addition, loss of stromal Cav-1 results in the metabolic reprogramming of cancer-associated fibroblasts, with the induction of autophagy and glycolysis. However, it remains unknown if activation of the TGF-β / CTGF pathway regulates the metabolism of cancer-associated fibroblasts. Therefore, we investigated whether CTGF modulates metabolism in the tumor microenvironment. For this purpose, CTGF was overexpressed in normal human fibroblasts or MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. Overexpression of CTGF induces HIF-1α-dependent metabolic alterations, with the induction of autophagy/mitophagy, senescence, and glycolysis. Here, we show that CTGF exerts compartment-specific effects on tumorigenesis, depending on the cell-type. In a xenograft model, CTGF overexpressing fibroblasts promote the growth of co-injected MDA-MB-231 cells, without any increases in angiogenesis. Conversely, CTGF overexpression in MDA-MB-231 cells dramatically inhibits tumor growth in mice. Intriguingly, increased extracellular matrix deposition was seen in tumors with either fibroblast or MDA-MB-231 overexpression of CTGF. Thus, the effects of CTGF expression on tumor formation are independent of its extracellular matrix function, but rather depend on its ability to activate catabolic metabolism. As such, CTGF-mediated induction of autophagy in fibroblasts supports tumor growth via the generation of recycled nutrients, whereas CTGF-mediated autophagy in breast cancer cells suppresses tumor growth, via tumor cell self-digestion. Our studies shed new light on the compartment-specific role of CTGF in mammary tumorigenesis, and provide novel insights into the mechanism(s) generating a lethal tumor microenvironment in patients lacking stromal Cav-1. As loss of Cav-1 is a stromal marker of poor clinical outcome in women with primary breast cancer, dissecting the downstream signaling effects of Cav-1 are important for understanding disease pathogenesis, and identifying novel therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Capparelli
- The Jefferson Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine Center, Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Lipson KE, Wong C, Teng Y, Spong S. CTGF is a central mediator of tissue remodeling and fibrosis and its inhibition can reverse the process of fibrosis. FIBROGENESIS & TISSUE REPAIR 2012; 5:S24. [PMID: 23259531 PMCID: PMC3368796 DOI: 10.1186/1755-1536-5-s1-s24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 419] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
CTGF is a secreted matricellular protein with very complex biology. It has been shown to modulate many signaling pathways leading to cell adhesion and migration, angiogenesis, myofibroblast activation, and extracellular matrix deposition and remodeling, which together lead to tissue remodeling and fibrosis. It has been reported in the literature that inhibition of CTGF expression by siRNA prevents CCl4-induced liver fibrosis and can reverse fibrosis when administered after significant collagen deposition is observed. A monoclonal antibody to CTGF that is currently in clinical development (FG-3019) has demonstrated the ability to reverse vascular stiffening and improve cardiac function in a rat model of diabetic complications. FG-3019 has also exhibited activity in a murine radiation-induced pulmonary fibrosis model. When FG-3019 was administered to mice after a significant radiation-induced increase in lung density could be observed by CT imaging, the density of the lungs was observed to decrease over the period during which the antibody was administered and to remain stable after therapy had ceased. When considered together, these data indicate that inhibition of CTGF can prevent and reverse the process of fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Carol Wong
- FibroGen, Inc., 409 Illinois St., San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Yuchin Teng
- FibroGen, Inc., 409 Illinois St., San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Suzanne Spong
- FibroGen, Inc., 409 Illinois St., San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
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Kim JS, Choi IG, Lee BC, Park JB, Kim JH, Jeong JH, Jeong JH, Seo CH. Neuregulin induces CTGF expression in hypertrophic scarring fibroblasts. Mol Cell Biochem 2012; 365:181-9. [DOI: 10.1007/s11010-012-1258-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2011] [Accepted: 02/07/2012] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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Nagashima T, Kim J, Li Q, Lydon JP, DeMayo FJ, Lyons KM, Matzuk MM. Connective tissue growth factor is required for normal follicle development and ovulation. Mol Endocrinol 2011; 25:1740-59. [PMID: 21868453 DOI: 10.1210/me.2011-1045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is a cysteine-rich protein the synthesis and secretion of which are hypothesized to be selectively regulated by activins and other members of the TGF-β superfamily. To investigate the in vivo roles of CTGF in female reproduction, we generated Ctgf ovarian and uterine conditional knockout (cKO) mice. Ctgf cKO mice exhibit severe subfertility and multiple reproductive defects including disrupted follicle development, decreased ovulation rates, increased numbers of corpus luteum, and smaller but functionally normal uterine horns. Steroidogenesis is disrupted in the Ctgf cKO mice, leading to increased levels of serum progesterone. We show that disrupted follicle development is accompanied by a significant increase in granulosa cell apoptosis. Moreover, despite normal cumulus expansion, Ctgf cKO mice exhibit a significant decrease in oocytes ovulated, likely due to impaired ovulatory process. During analyses of mRNA expression, we discovered that Ctgf cKO granulosa cells show gene expression changes similar to our previously reported granulosa cell-specific knockouts of activin and Smad4, the common TGF-β family intracellular signaling protein. We also discovered a significant down-regulation of Adamts1, a progesterone-regulated gene that is critical for the remodeling of extracellular matrix surrounding granulosa cells of preovulatory follicles. These findings demonstrate that CTGF is a downstream mediator in TGF-β and progesterone signaling cascades and is necessary for normal follicle development and ovulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Nagashima
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
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36
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Adenovirus i-leader truncation bioselected against cancer-associated fibroblasts to overcome tumor stromal barriers. Mol Ther 2011; 20:54-62. [PMID: 21863000 DOI: 10.1038/mt.2011.159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor-associated stromal cells constitute a major hurdle in the antitumor efficacy with oncolytic adenoviruses. To overcome this biological barrier, an in vitro bioselection of a mutagenized AdwtRGD stock in human cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) was performed. Several rounds of harvest at early cytopathic effect (CPE) followed by plaque isolation led us to identify one mutant with large plaque phenotype, enhanced release in CAFs and enhanced cytotoxicity in CAF and several tumor cell lines. Whole genome sequencing and functional mapping identified the truncation of the last 17 amino acids in C-terminal end of the i-leader protein as the mutation responsible for this phenotype. Similar mutations have been previously isolated in two independent bioselection processes in tumor cell lines. Importantly, our results establish the enhanced antitumor activity in vivo of the i-leader C-terminal truncated mutants, especially in a desmotic fibroblast-embedded lung carcinoma model in mice. These results indicate that the i-leader truncation represents a promising trait to improve virotherapy with oncolytic adenoviruses.
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CCN2 is required for the TGF-β induced activation of Smad1-Erk1/2 signaling network. PLoS One 2011; 6:e21911. [PMID: 21760921 PMCID: PMC3132735 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0021911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2010] [Accepted: 06/14/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Connective tissue growth factor (CCN2) is a multifunctional matricellular protein, which is frequently overexpressed during organ fibrosis. CCN2 is a mediator of the pro-fibrotic effects of TGF-β in cultured cells, but the specific function of CCN2 in the fibrotic process has not been elucidated. In this study we characterized the CCN2-dependent signaling pathways that are required for the TGF-β induced fibrogenic response. By depleting endogenous CCN2 we show that CCN2 is indispensable for the TGF-β-induced phosphorylation of Smad1 and Erk1/2, but it is unnecessary for the activation of Smad3. TGF-β stimulation triggered formation of the CCN2/β3 integrin protein complexes and activation of Src signaling. Furthermore, we demonstrated that signaling through the αvβ3 integrin receptor and Src was required for the TGF-β induced Smad1 phosphorylation. Recombinant CCN2 activated Src and Erk1/2 signaling, and induced phosphorylation of Fli1, but was unable to stimulate Smad1 or Smad3 phosphorylation. Additional experiments were performed to investigate the role of CCN2 in collagen production. Consistent with the previous studies, blockade of CCN2 abrogated TGF-β-induced collagen mRNA and protein levels. Recombinant CCN2 potently stimulated collagen mRNA levels and upregulated activity of the COL1A2 promoter, however CCN2 was a weak inducer of collagen protein levels. CCN2 stimulation of collagen was dose-dependent with the lower doses (<50 ng/ml) having a stimulatory effect and higher doses having an inhibitory effect on collagen gene expression. In conclusion, our study defines a novel CCN2/αvβ3 integrin/Src/Smad1 axis that contributes to the pro-fibrotic TGF-β signaling and suggests that blockade of this pathway may be beneficial for the treatment of fibrosis.
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Li LY, Li EM, Wu ZY, Huang X, Shen JH, Xu XE, Wu JY, Huang Q, Xu LY. Connective tissue growth factor expression in precancerous lesions of human esophageal epithelium and prognostic significance in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Dis Esophagus 2011; 24:337-45. [PMID: 21143696 DOI: 10.1111/j.1442-2050.2010.01147.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF, CCN2), a secreted protein, is involved in the development and progression of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). However, it remains unclear how CTGF expression affects the progression of ESCC. Our study implicated differences of CTGF protein status in precancerous lesions, and retrospectively examined the associations of CTGF mRNA and protein levels with clinical prognosis in ESCC patients. Here immunohistochemistry and the quantitative real-time real-time reverse transcription polymerase were performed for predicting the CTGF protein status and mRNA levels in ESCC patients, respectively. Different degrees of CTGF protein status presented in normal human esophageal epithelium and precancerous lesions, and CTGF protein was highly expressed in ESCCs. Survival analysis showed that CTGF protein status was significantly related to poor survival of ESCC patients (P= 0.024), while no significant difference was observed between CTGF mRNA levels and the survival of ESCC patients (P= 0.196). Multivariate Cox analysis demonstrated that CTGF protein status was the independent factor in prognosis of ESCC patients. In that way, CTGF protein status might elevate the progression of ESCC, and would be significant for the diagnosis of precancerous lesions or early ESCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- L-Y Li
- Institute of Oncologic PathologyDepartment of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical College of Shantou University; and Departments ofOncology SurgeryPathology, Shantou Central Hospital, Affiliated Shantou Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shantou, Guangdong, China
| | - E-M Li
- Institute of Oncologic PathologyDepartment of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical College of Shantou University; and Departments ofOncology SurgeryPathology, Shantou Central Hospital, Affiliated Shantou Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shantou, Guangdong, China
| | - Z-Y Wu
- Institute of Oncologic PathologyDepartment of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical College of Shantou University; and Departments ofOncology SurgeryPathology, Shantou Central Hospital, Affiliated Shantou Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shantou, Guangdong, China
| | - X Huang
- Institute of Oncologic PathologyDepartment of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical College of Shantou University; and Departments ofOncology SurgeryPathology, Shantou Central Hospital, Affiliated Shantou Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shantou, Guangdong, China
| | - J-H Shen
- Institute of Oncologic PathologyDepartment of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical College of Shantou University; and Departments ofOncology SurgeryPathology, Shantou Central Hospital, Affiliated Shantou Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shantou, Guangdong, China
| | - X-E Xu
- Institute of Oncologic PathologyDepartment of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical College of Shantou University; and Departments ofOncology SurgeryPathology, Shantou Central Hospital, Affiliated Shantou Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shantou, Guangdong, China
| | - J-Y Wu
- Institute of Oncologic PathologyDepartment of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical College of Shantou University; and Departments ofOncology SurgeryPathology, Shantou Central Hospital, Affiliated Shantou Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shantou, Guangdong, China
| | - Q Huang
- Institute of Oncologic PathologyDepartment of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical College of Shantou University; and Departments ofOncology SurgeryPathology, Shantou Central Hospital, Affiliated Shantou Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shantou, Guangdong, China
| | - L-Y Xu
- Institute of Oncologic PathologyDepartment of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical College of Shantou University; and Departments ofOncology SurgeryPathology, Shantou Central Hospital, Affiliated Shantou Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shantou, Guangdong, China
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Two different docetaxel resistant MCF-7 sublines exhibited different gene expression pattern. Mol Biol Rep 2011; 39:3505-16. [PMID: 21720762 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-011-1123-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2011] [Accepted: 06/20/2011] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The objective of the present study was to investigate gene expression pattern of two docetaxel resistant MCF-7 breast carcinoma sublines step wisely selected in 30 and 120 nM docetaxel. Cell proliferation assay was performed in order to demonstrate development of docetaxel resistance. cDNA microarray analysis was performed using Affymetrix(®) Human Genome U133 Plus 2.0 Arrays in duplicate experiments. Quantitative and semi-quantitative gene expression analysis was also performed to confirm gene expression analysis for selected genes. XTT results demonstrated that 30 (MCF-7/30nM DOC) and 120 nM (MCF-7/120nM DOC) docetaxel selected cells were 13- and 47-fold resistant, respectively. cDNA microarray analysis demonstrated that expression profiles of MCF-7 and MCF-7/30nM DOC were more similar to each other where expression profile of MCF-7/120nM DOC was different as examined by line graphs and scatter plots. 2,837 and 4,036 genes were significantly altered in 30 and 120 nM docetaxel resistant sublines, respectively. Among these, 849 genes were altered in common in two docetaxel resistant sublines. Antiapoptotic gene expression (e.g., Bcl-2 and APRIL) were noticeably altered in MCF-7/30nM DOC. However, docetaxel resistance in MCF-7/120nM DOC were more complicated with the involvement of ECM related gene expression, cytokine and growth factor signaling, ROS metabolism and EMT related gene expression together with higher level of MDR1 expression. Expression profiles in 30 and 120 nM docetaxel resistant sublines changed gradually with increasing resistance index. Drug resistance development seems to be step wise event in MCF-7 cells.
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Sha W, Leask A. CCN2 expression and localization in melanoma cells. J Cell Commun Signal 2011; 5:219-26. [PMID: 21667293 DOI: 10.1007/s12079-011-0128-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2011] [Accepted: 03/07/2011] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The matricellular protein connective tissue growth factor (CTGF, CCN2) is overexpressed in several forms of cancer and may represent a novel target in anti-cancer therapy. However, whether CCN2 is expressed in melanoma cells is unknown. The highly metastatic murine melanoma cell line B16(F10) was used for our studies. Real time polymerase chain reaction analysis was used to detect mRNA expression of CCN1, CCN2, CCN3 and CCN4 in Western blot and immunofluorescence analyses were used to detect CCN2 protein. Inhibitors of signal transduction cascades were used to probe the mechanism underlying CCN2 expression in B16(F10) cells. CCN2 was expressed in B16(F10) cells, and was reduced by the FAK/src inhibitor PP2 and the MEK/ERK inhibitor U0126 indicating that CCN2 acts downstream of these pathways in B16(F10) murine melanoma cells. Expression of CCN1, CCN3 and CCN4 was not reduced by PP2 or U0126; in fact, expression of CCN4 mRNA was elevated by PP2 or U0126 treatment. To our surprise, CCN2 protein was detected in the nuclei of B16(F10) cells, and was undetectable in the cytoplasm. CCN2 was expressed in B16(F10) melanoma cells, adding to the list of cancer cells in which CCN2 is expressed. Of the CCN family members tested, only CCN2 is downstream of the highly oncogenic MEK/ERK pathway. CCN2 should be further evaluated for a possible role in melanoma growth and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Sha
- Department of Dentistry, Schulich School of Medicine of Dentistry, Dental Sciences Building, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada, N6A 5C1
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Mechanism of cancer-induced bone destruction: An association of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2) in the bone metastasis. JAPANESE DENTAL SCIENCE REVIEW 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jdsr.2010.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
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Waddell JM, Evans J, Jabbour HN, Denison FC. CTGF expression is up-regulated by PROK1 in early pregnancy and influences HTR-8/Svneo cell adhesion and network formation. Hum Reprod 2010; 26:67-75. [PMID: 21098624 PMCID: PMC3005999 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deq294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prokineticin-1 (PROK1) and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) are expressed in human endometrium and first-trimester decidua and have individually been proposed to have roles in implantation and placentation. We have recently demonstrated that CTGF may be a target gene for PROK1 in gene array analysis of a prokineticin receptor-1 stably transfected Ishikawa endometrial epithelial cell line (PROKR1-Ishikawa). The first aim of the study was to determine the effect of PROK1 on CTGF expression in PROKR1-Ishikawa cells and first-trimester decidua samples. Secondly, the effect of CTGF on trophoblast-derived HTR-8/SVneo cell adhesion and network formation was investigated. METHODS AND RESULTS Real-time qPCR showed that CTGF expression is elevated in first-trimester decidua compared with non-pregnant endometrium. In decidua, CTGF co-localized with PROKR1 to the glandular epithelium and a subset of stromal cells. PROK1 increased CTGF mRNA and protein expression in PROKR1-Ishikawa cells and first-trimester human decidua (8–12 weeks gestation). Knock down of endogenous PROK1 using micro RNA constructs targeted at PROK1, resulted in decreased expression of CTGF mRNA and protein in decidua. Inhibitors of specific cell signalling molecules demonstrated that PROK1 regulates CTGF expression via the Gq, phospholipase C (PLC), cSrc, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (MAPK/ERK) kinase pathway activation. Treatment of trophoblast-derived HTR-8/Svneo cells with 1 µg/ml CTGF significantly increased adhesion to collagen IV, and differentiation of the cells into tube-like structures in matrigel. CONCLUSIONS CTGF expression in early pregnancy decidua is regulated by PROK1, via activation of the Gq, PLC, cSrc, EGFR, MAPK/ERK kinase pathway. CTGF in turn may contribute to the regulation of trophoblast conversion of maternal spiral arteries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer M Waddell
- Medical Research Council, Human Reproductive Sciences Unit, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, UK
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Allen M, Louise Jones J. Jekyll and Hyde: the role of the microenvironment on the progression of cancer. J Pathol 2010; 223:162-76. [PMID: 21125673 DOI: 10.1002/path.2803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 256] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2010] [Revised: 10/01/2010] [Accepted: 10/01/2010] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
It is now recognized that the host microenvironment undergoes extensive change during the evolution and progression of cancer. This involves the generation of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), which, through release of growth factors and cytokines, lead to enhanced angiogenesis, increased tumour growth and invasion. It has also been demonstrated that CAFs may modulate the cancer stem cell (CSC) phenotype, which has therapeutic implications. The altered fibroblast phenotype also contributes to the development of an altered extracellular matrix (ECM), with synthesis of ECM isoforms rarely found in normal tissues, including tenascin-C isoforms and the fibronectin EDA isoform. There is also emerging evidence of how the tensile strength of the tumour-associated ECM may be modified and lead to altered signalling in tumour cells. The hypoxic environment of the tumour stimulates angiogenesis and also impacts on other aspects of cell signalling, including the c-met pathway and lysyl oxidase-mediated signalling, which can directly promote tumour cell invasion. The inflammatory infiltrate associated with many solid tumours also modulates tumour function, having both anti- and pro-tumour effects. All of these components of the microenvironment provide potential targets for therapeutic attack, with a number of molecules already in clinical trials. It is also becoming evident that characterizing the tumour microenvironment can provide important prognostic and predictive information about tumours, independent of the tumour cell phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Allen
- Centre for Tumour Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, London, UK
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Abstract
Metastasis, the leading cause of cancer deaths, is an intricate process involving many important tumor and stromal proteins that have yet to be fully defined. This review discusses critical components necessary for the metastatic cascade, including hypoxia, inflammation, and the tumor microenvironment. More specifically, this review focuses on tumor cell and stroma interactions, which allow cell detachment from a primary tumor, intravasation to the blood stream, and extravasation at a distant site where cells can seed and tumor metastases can form. Central players involved in this process and discussed in this review include integrins, matrix metalloproteinases, and soluble growth factors/matrix proteins, including the connective tissue growth factor and lysyl oxidase.
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Behrens ME, Grandgenett PM, Bailey JM, Singh PK, Yi CH, Yu F, Hollingsworth MA. The reactive tumor microenvironment: MUC1 signaling directly reprograms transcription of CTGF. Oncogene 2010; 29:5667-77. [PMID: 20697347 PMCID: PMC3412169 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2010.327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The MUC1 cytoplasmic tail (MUC1.CT) conducts signals from spatial and extracellular cues (growth factor and cytokine stimulation) to evoke a reprogramming of the cellular transcriptional profile. Specific phosphorylated forms of the MUC1.CT achieve this function by differentially associating with transcription factors and redirecting their transcriptional regulatory capabilities at specific gene regulatory elements. The specificity of interaction between MUC1.CT and several transcription factors is dictated by the phosphorylation pattern of the 18 potential phosphorylation motifs within the MUC1.CT. To better appreciate the scope of differential gene expression triggered by MUC1.CT activation, we performed microarray gene expression analysis and ChIP-chip promoter analysis and identified the genome-wide transcriptional targets of MUC1.CT signaling in pancreatic cancer. On a global scale, MUC1.CT preferentially targets genes relating to invasion, angiogenesis and metastasis, suggesting that MUC1.CT signaling contributes to establishing a reactive tumor microenvironment during tumor progression to metastatic disease. We examined in detail the molecular mechanisms of MUC1.CT signaling that induces expression of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2), a potent mediator of ECM remodeling and angiogenesis. We demonstrate a robust induction of CTGF synthesis and secretion in response to serum factors that is enabled only when MUC1 is highly expressed. We demonstrate the requirement of phosphorylation at distinct tyrosine motifs within the MUC1.CT for MUC1-induced CTGF expression and demonstrate a phosphorylation-specific localization of MUC1.CT to the CTGF promoter. We found that MUC1 reorganizes transcription factor occupancy of genomic regions upstream of the CTGF gene, directing β-catenin and mutant p53 to CTGF gene regulatory elements to promote CTGF expression and destabilizing the interaction at these regions of the transcriptional repressor, c-Jun. With this example we illustrate the capacity of MUC1.CT to mediate transcription factor activity in a context-dependent manner to achieve widespread and robust changes in gene expression and facilitate creation of the reactive tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- M E Behrens
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-5950, USA
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Tight junction protein, claudin-6, downregulates the malignant phenotype of breast carcinoma. Eur J Cancer Prev 2010; 19:186-94. [PMID: 20215972 DOI: 10.1097/cej.0b013e328337210e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Claudin-6 is a protein component of tight junctions and its expression has been found to be undetectable or at low levels in some human and rat breast cancer cells. Here we investigated the effect of claudin-6 upregulation on the malignant phenotype of human MCF-7 breast cancer cells. MCF-7 sublines with stable claudin-6 expression were established by transfection with a pcDNA3.1-claudin-6 expressing vector. The expression of claudin-6 on mRNA and protein levels was confirmed by reverse transcription-PCR, western blot and immunofluorescent assays. Then the effects of claudin-6 on cell proliferation and cell cycle were examined by 5-diphenyl terazolium-bromide assay and flow cytometry, respectively. Colony-forming assays were used to examine two-dimensional and three-dimensional colony forming ability. Invasive and migratory traits of claudin-6 expressing cells were determined by matrigel-based Boyden chamber invasion assay and monolayer wound-healing assay. The structure and function of tight junctions in both parental and claudin-6 expression MCF-7 cells were evaluated by measuring transepithelial electrical resistance. Immunofluorescent assays showed that transfected cells expressed claudin-6 on their membranes. Cells with high level expression of claudin-6 grew slowly and had a higher rate of death than control cells. Anchorage-independent growth, invasive and migratory traits were also substantially decreased in cells with claudin-6 expression; whereas the transepithelial electrical resistance was increased in the claudin-6 transfected cells. In conclusion, these results suggest that claudin-6 may function as a cancer suppressor; its downregulation may contribute to the malignant progression of certain types of breast cancers.
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Maier HJ, Schmidt-Strassburger U, Huber MA, Wiedemann EM, Beug H, Wirth T. NF-kappaB promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition, migration and invasion of pancreatic carcinoma cells. Cancer Lett 2010; 295:214-28. [PMID: 20350779 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2010.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 176] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2009] [Revised: 02/26/2010] [Accepted: 03/04/2010] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The transcription factor NF-kappaB is constitutively active in pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Here we explore the contribution of NF-kappaB to the malignant phenotype of pancreatic cancer cells in addition to its anti-apoptotic role. Block of NF-kappaB signalling by non-destructible IkappaBalpha rendered cells resistant to TGF-beta-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). In contrast, NF-kappaB activation by TNF-alpha or expression of constitutively active IKK2 induced an EMT-phenotype with up-regulation of vimentin and ZEB1, and down-regulation of E-cadherin. EMT could also be induced in cells with defective TGF-beta signalling. Functional assays demonstrated reduced or strongly enhanced migration and invasion upon NF-kappaB inhibition or activation, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harald J Maier
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry, University of Ulm, Germany
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Birgersdotter A, Baumforth KRN, Wei W, Murray PG, Sjöberg J, Björkholm M, Porwit A, Ernberg I. Connective tissue growth factor is expressed in malignant cells of Hodgkin lymphoma but not in other mature B-cell lymphomas. Am J Clin Pathol 2010; 133:271-80. [PMID: 20093237 DOI: 10.1309/ajcpg7h0ssryknkh] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) has a major role in development of fibrosis and in the wound-healing process. Microarray analysis of 44 classical Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL) samples showed higher CTGF messenger RNA expression in the nodular sclerosis (NS) than in the mixed cellularity (MC) subtype. When analyzed by immunohistochemical analysis, Hodgkin-Reed-Sternberg (H-RS) cells and macrophages in 23 cHLs and "popcorn" cells in 2 nodular lymphocyte predominant Hodgkin lymphomas showed expression of CTGF protein correlating with the extent of fibrosis. In NS, CTGF was also expressed in fibroblasts and occasional lymphocytes. Malignant cells in 32 samples of various non-Hodgkin lymphomas were negative for CTGF. A staining pattern of stromal cells similar to that of NS cHL was seen in anaplastic large cell lymphoma. Macrophages stained positively in Burkitt lymphomas and in some mantle cell lymphomas. The high occurrence of fibrosis in cHL may be related to CTGF expression by malignant H-RS cells.
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Translational advances and novel therapies for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma: hope or hype? Expert Rev Mol Med 2009; 11:e34. [PMID: 19919723 DOI: 10.1017/s1462399409001240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Biological complexity, inaccessible anatomical location, nonspecific symptoms, lack of a screening biomarker, advanced disease at presentation and drug resistance epitomise pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA) as a poor-prognosis, lethal disease. Twenty-five years of research (basic, translational and clinical) have barely made strides to improve survival, mainly because of a fundamental lack of knowledge of the biological processes initiating and propagating PDA. However, isolation of pancreas cancer stem cells or progenitors, whole-genome sequencing for driver mutations, advances in functional imaging, mechanistic dissection of the desmoplastic reaction and novel targeted therapies are likely to shed light on how best to treat PDA. Here we summarise current knowledge and areas where the field is advancing, and give our opinion on the research direction the field should be focusing on to better deliver promising therapies for our patients.
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Hugo HJ, Wafai R, Blick T, Thompson EW, Newgreen DF. Staurosporine augments EGF-mediated EMT in PMC42-LA cells through actin depolymerisation, focal contact size reduction and Snail1 induction - a model for cross-modulation. BMC Cancer 2009; 9:235. [PMID: 19604397 PMCID: PMC2717979 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2407-9-235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2008] [Accepted: 07/15/2009] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A feature of epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) relevant to tumour dissemination is the reorganization of actin cytoskeleton/focal contacts, influencing cellular ECM adherence and motility. This is coupled with the transcriptional repression of E-cadherin, often mediated by Snail1, Snail2 and Zeb1/deltaEF1. These genes, overexpressed in breast carcinomas, are known targets of growth factor-initiated pathways, however it is less clear how alterations in ECM attachment cross-modulate to regulate these pathways. EGF induces EMT in the breast cancer cell line PMC42-LA and the kinase inhibitor staurosporine (ST) induces EMT in embryonic neural epithelial cells, with F-actin de-bundling and disruption of cell-cell adhesion, via inhibition of aPKC. METHODS PMC42-LA cells were treated for 72 h with 10 ng/ml EGF, 40 nM ST, or both, and assessed for expression of E-cadherin repressor genes (Snail1, Snail2, Zeb1/deltaEF1) and EMT-related genes by QRT-PCR, multiplex tandem PCR (MT-PCR) and immunofluorescence +/- cycloheximide. Actin and focal contacts (paxillin) were visualized by confocal microscopy. A public database of human breast cancers was assessed for expression of Snail1 and Snail2 in relation to outcome. RESULTS When PMC42-LA were treated with EGF, Snail2 was the principal E-cadherin repressor induced. With ST or ST+EGF this shifted to Snail1, with more extreme EMT and Zeb1/deltaEF1 induction seen with ST+EGF. ST reduced stress fibres and focal contact size rapidly and independently of gene transcription. Gene expression analysis by MT-PCR indicated that ST repressed many genes which were induced by EGF (EGFR, CAV1, CTGF, CYR61, CD44, S100A4) and induced genes which alter the actin cytoskeleton (NLF1, NLF2, EPHB4). Examination of the public database of breast cancers revealed tumours exhibiting higher Snail1 expression have an increased risk of disease-recurrence. This was not seen for Snail2, and Zeb1/deltaEF1 showed a reverse correlation with lower expression values being predictive of increased risk. CONCLUSION ST in combination with EGF directed a greater EMT via actin depolymerisation and focal contact size reduction, resulting in a loosening of cell-ECM attachment along with Snail1-Zeb1/deltaEF1 induction. This appeared fundamentally different to the EGF-induced EMT, highlighting the multiple pathways which can regulate EMT. Our findings add support for a functional role for Snail1 in invasive breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Honor J Hugo
- Embryology Laboratory, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Australia
- VBCRC Invasion and Metastasis Unit, St. Vincent's Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Razan Wafai
- University of Melbourne Department of Surgery, St. Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Tony Blick
- VBCRC Invasion and Metastasis Unit, St. Vincent's Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Erik W Thompson
- VBCRC Invasion and Metastasis Unit, St. Vincent's Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Australia
- University of Melbourne Department of Surgery, St. Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Donald F Newgreen
- Embryology Laboratory, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Australia
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