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Ascheid D, Baumann M, Pinnecker J, Friedrich M, Szi-Marton D, Medved C, Bundalo M, Ortmann V, Öztürk A, Nandigama R, Hemmen K, Ergün S, Zernecke A, Hirth M, Heinze KG, Henke E. A vascularized breast cancer spheroid platform for the ranked evaluation of tumor microenvironment-targeted drugs by light sheet fluorescence microscopy. Nat Commun 2024; 15:3599. [PMID: 38678014 PMCID: PMC11055956 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-48010-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Targeting the supportive tumor microenvironment (TME) is an approach of high interest in cancer drug development. However, assessing TME-targeted drug candidates presents a unique set of challenges. We develop a comprehensive screening platform that allows monitoring, quantifying, and ranking drug-induced effects in self-organizing, vascularized tumor spheroids (VTSs). The confrontation of four human-derived cell populations makes it possible to recreate and study complex changes in TME composition and cell-cell interaction. The platform is modular and adaptable for tumor entity or genetic manipulation. Treatment effects are recorded by light sheet fluorescence microscopy and translated by an advanced image analysis routine in processable multi-parametric datasets. The system proved to be robust, with strong interassay reliability. We demonstrate the platform's utility for evaluating TME-targeted antifibrotic and antiangiogenic drugs side-by-side. The platform's output enabled the differential evaluation of even closely related drug candidates according to projected therapeutic needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Ascheid
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Magdalena Baumann
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Jürgen Pinnecker
- Chair of Molecular Microscopy, Rudolf-Virchow-Center for Integrative and Translational Bioimaging, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Mike Friedrich
- Chair of Molecular Microscopy, Rudolf-Virchow-Center for Integrative and Translational Bioimaging, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Daniel Szi-Marton
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Cornelia Medved
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Maja Bundalo
- Institute of Experimental Biomedicine, Universitätsklinikum Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Vanessa Ortmann
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Asli Öztürk
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Rajender Nandigama
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- Max Planck Institute of Heart and Lung Research, Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Katherina Hemmen
- Chair of Molecular Microscopy, Rudolf-Virchow-Center for Integrative and Translational Bioimaging, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Süleymann Ergün
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Alma Zernecke
- Institute of Experimental Biomedicine, Universitätsklinikum Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Matthias Hirth
- Institut für Medientechnik, Technische Universität Illmenau, Illmenau, Germany
| | - Katrin G Heinze
- Chair of Molecular Microscopy, Rudolf-Virchow-Center for Integrative and Translational Bioimaging, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.
| | - Erik Henke
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.
- Graduate School for Life Sciences, Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.
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2
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Fernandes S, Cassani M, Cavalieri F, Forte G, Caruso F. Emerging Strategies for Immunotherapy of Solid Tumors Using Lipid-Based Nanoparticles. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2305769. [PMID: 38054651 PMCID: PMC10885677 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202305769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
The application of lipid-based nanoparticles for COVID-19 vaccines and transthyretin-mediated amyloidosis treatment have highlighted their potential for translation to cancer therapy. However, their use in delivering drugs to solid tumors is limited by ineffective targeting, heterogeneous organ distribution, systemic inflammatory responses, and insufficient drug accumulation at the tumor. Instead, the use of lipid-based nanoparticles to remotely activate immune system responses is an emerging effective strategy. Despite this approach showing potential for treating hematological cancers, its application to treat solid tumors is hampered by the selection of eligible targets, tumor heterogeneity, and ineffective penetration of activated T cells within the tumor. Notwithstanding, the use of lipid-based nanoparticles for immunotherapy is projected to revolutionize cancer therapy, with the ultimate goal of rendering cancer a chronic disease. However, the translational success is likely to depend on the use of predictive tumor models in preclinical studies, simulating the complexity of the tumor microenvironment (e.g., the fibrotic extracellular matrix that impairs therapeutic outcomes) and stimulating tumor progression. This review compiles recent advances in the field of antitumor lipid-based nanoparticles and highlights emerging therapeutic approaches (e.g., mechanotherapy) to modulate tumor stiffness and improve T cell infiltration, and the use of organoids to better guide therapeutic outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soraia Fernandes
- Center for Translational Medicine (CTM)International Clinical Research Centre (ICRC)St. Anne HospitalBrno656 91Czech Republic
- Department of Chemical EngineeringThe University of MelbourneParkvilleVictoria3010Australia
| | - Marco Cassani
- Center for Translational Medicine (CTM)International Clinical Research Centre (ICRC)St. Anne HospitalBrno656 91Czech Republic
- Department of Chemical EngineeringThe University of MelbourneParkvilleVictoria3010Australia
| | - Francesca Cavalieri
- School of ScienceRMIT UniversityMelbourneVictoria3000Australia
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie ChimicheUniversita di Roma “Tor Vergata”Via della Ricerca Scientifica 1Rome00133Italy
| | - Giancarlo Forte
- Center for Translational Medicine (CTM)International Clinical Research Centre (ICRC)St. Anne HospitalBrno656 91Czech Republic
- School of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine & SciencesKing's College LondonLondonSE5 9NUUK
| | - Frank Caruso
- Department of Chemical EngineeringThe University of MelbourneParkvilleVictoria3010Australia
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3
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Blanco-Fernandez B, Ibañez-Fonseca A, Orbanic D, Ximenes-Carballo C, Perez-Amodio S, Rodríguez-Cabello JC, Engel E. Elastin-like Recombinamer Hydrogels as Platforms for Breast Cancer Modeling. Biomacromolecules 2023; 24:4408-4418. [PMID: 36597885 PMCID: PMC10565832 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.2c01080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
The involvement of the extracellular matrix (ECM) in tumor progression has motivated the development of biomaterials mimicking the tumor ECM to develop more predictive cancer models. Particularly, polypeptides based on elastin could be an interesting approach to mimic the ECM due to their tunable properties. Here, we demonstrated that elastin-like recombinamer (ELR) hydrogels can be suitable biomaterials to develop breast cancer models. This hydrogel was formed by two ELR polypeptides, one containing sequences biodegradable by matrix metalloproteinase and cyclooctyne and the other carrying arginylglycylaspartic acid and azide groups to allow cell adhesion, biodegradability, and suitable stiffness through "click-chemistry" cross-linking. Our findings show that breast cancer or nontumorigenic breast cells showed high viability and cell proliferation for up to 7 days. MCF7 and MCF10A formed spheroids whereas MDA-MB-231 formed cell networks, with the expression of ECM and high drug resistance in all cases, evidencing that ELR hydrogels are a promising biomaterial for breast cancer modeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Blanco-Fernandez
- Institute
for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of
Science and Technology (BIST), Baldiri Reixac 10-12, Barcelona 08028, Spain
- CIBER
en Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina, CIBER-BBN, Madrid 28029, Spain
| | - Arturo Ibañez-Fonseca
- BIOFORGE
Lab, CIBER-BBN, University of Valladolid, Paseo de Belén 19, 47011 Valladolid, Spain
| | - Doriana Orbanic
- BIOFORGE
Lab, CIBER-BBN, University of Valladolid, Paseo de Belén 19, 47011 Valladolid, Spain
| | - Celia Ximenes-Carballo
- Institute
for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of
Science and Technology (BIST), Baldiri Reixac 10-12, Barcelona 08028, Spain
| | - Soledad Perez-Amodio
- Institute
for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of
Science and Technology (BIST), Baldiri Reixac 10-12, Barcelona 08028, Spain
| | | | - Elisabeth Engel
- Institute
for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), The Barcelona Institute of
Science and Technology (BIST), Baldiri Reixac 10-12, Barcelona 08028, Spain
- CIBER
en Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina, CIBER-BBN, Madrid 28029, Spain
- IMEM-BRT
Group, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, EEBE, Technical University of Catalonia (UPC), Barcelona 08019, Spain
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4
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Zhu S, Zhang T, Gao H, Jin G, Yang J, He X, Guo H, Xu F. Combination Therapy of Lox Inhibitor and Stimuli-Responsive Drug for Mechanochemically Synergistic Breast Cancer Treatment. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2300103. [PMID: 37099721 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202300103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023]
Abstract
Chemotherapy based on small molecule drugs, hormones, cycline kinase inhibitors, and monoclonal antibodies has been widely used for breast cancer treatment in the clinic but with limited efficacy, due to the poor specificity and tumor microenvironment (TME)-caused diffusion barrier. Although monotherapies targeting biochemical cues or physical cues in the TME have been developed, none of them can cope with the complex TME, while mechanochemical combination therapy remains largely to be explored. Herein, a combination therapy strategy based on an extracellular matrix (ECM) modulator and TME-responsive drug for the first attempt of mechanochemically synergistic treatment of breast cancer is developed. Specifically, based on overexpressed NAD(P)H quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1) in breast cancer, a TME-responsive drug (NQO1-SN38) is designed and it is combined with the inhibitor (i.e., β-Aminopropionitrile, BAPN) for Lysyl oxidases (Lox) that contributes to the tumor stiffness, for mechanochemical therapy. It is demonstrated that NQO1 can trigger the degradation of NQO1-SN38 and release SN38, showing nearly twice tumor inhibition efficiency compared with SN38 treatment in vitro. Lox inhibition with BAPN significantly reduces collagen deposition and enhances drug penetration in tumor heterospheroids in vitro. It is further demonstrated that the mechanochemical therapy showed outstanding therapeutic efficacy in vivo, providing a promising approach for breast cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanshan Zhu
- The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, P. R. China
- Bioinspired Engineering & Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Tian Zhang
- Bioinspired Engineering & Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, P. R. China
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, P. R. China
| | - Huan Gao
- Bioinspired Engineering & Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, P. R. China
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, P. R. China
| | - Guorui Jin
- The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, P. R. China
- Bioinspired Engineering & Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Jin Yang
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, P. R. China
| | - Xiaocong He
- The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, P. R. China
- Bioinspired Engineering & Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Hui Guo
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, P. R. China
| | - Feng Xu
- The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, P. R. China
- Bioinspired Engineering & Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710049, P. R. China
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5
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Diep YN, Kim TJ, Cho H, Lee LP. Nanomedicine for advanced cancer immunotherapy. J Control Release 2022; 351:1017-1037. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2022.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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Jurj A, Ionescu C, Berindan-Neagoe I, Braicu C. The extracellular matrix alteration, implication in modulation of drug resistance mechanism: friends or foes? J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2022; 41:276. [PMID: 36114508 PMCID: PMC9479349 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-022-02484-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractThe extracellular matrix (ECM) is an important component of the tumor microenvironment (TME), having several important roles related to the hallmarks of cancer. In cancer, multiple components of the ECM have been shown to be altered. Although most of these alterations are represented by the increased or decreased quantity of the ECM components, changes regarding the functional alteration of a particular ECM component or of the ECM as a whole have been described. These alterations can be induced by the cancer cells directly or by the TME cells, with cancer-associated fibroblasts being of particular interest in this regard. Because the ECM has this wide array of functions in the tumor, preclinical and clinical studies have assessed the possibility of targeting the ECM, with some of them showing encouraging results. In the present review, we will highlight the most relevant ECM components presenting a comprehensive description of their physical, cellular and molecular properties which can alter the therapy response of the tumor cells. Lastly, some evidences regarding important biological processes were discussed, offering a more detailed understanding of how to modulate altered signalling pathways and to counteract drug resistance mechanisms in tumor cells.
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7
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Fuller AM, Eisinger-Mathason TSK. Context Matters: Response Heterogeneity to Collagen-Targeting Approaches in Desmoplastic Cancers. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14133132. [PMID: 35804902 PMCID: PMC9264969 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14133132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary A common feature of tumor types such as breast cancer, prostate cancer, pancreatic cancer, and soft-tissue sarcoma is the deposition of collagen-rich tissue called desmoplasia. However, efforts to control tumor growth by disrupting desmoplasia, collectively known as “collagen-targeting approaches”, have had mixed and contradictory results, sometimes even within the same cancer type. We believe that this phenomenon may be due—at least partially—to the fact that “collagen” is not a single molecule, but rather a diverse molecular family composed of 28 unique collagen types. Therefore, in this review, we discuss the diversity of collagen molecules in normal and cancer tissue, and explore how collagen heterogeneity relates to the mixed efficacy of collagen-targeting approaches for cancer therapy. Abstract The deposition of collagen-rich desmoplastic tissue is a well-documented feature of the solid tumor microenvironment (TME). However, efforts to target the desmoplastic extracellular matrix (ECM) en masse, or collagen molecules more specifically, have been met with mixed and sometimes paradoxical results. In this review, we posit that these discrepancies are due—at least in part—to the incredible diversity of the collagen superfamily. Specifically, whereas studies of “collagen-targeting” approaches frequently refer to “collagen” as a single molecule or relatively homogeneous molecular family, 28 individual collagens have been identified in mammalian tissues, each with a unique structure, supramolecular assembly pattern, tissue distribution, and/or function. Moreover, some collagen species have been shown to exert both pro- and anti-neoplastic effects in the desmoplastic TME, even within the same cancer type. Therefore, herein, we describe the diversity of the collagen family in normal tissues and highlight the context-specific roles of individual collagen molecules in desmoplastic tumors. We further discuss how this heterogeneity relates to the variable efficacy of “collagen-targeting” strategies in this setting and provide guidance for future directions in the field.
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8
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Darvishi B, Eisavand MR, Majidzadeh-A K, Farahmand L. Matrix stiffening and acquired resistance to chemotherapy: concepts and clinical significance. Br J Cancer 2022; 126:1253-1263. [PMID: 35124704 PMCID: PMC9043195 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-021-01680-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Revised: 10/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Extracellular matrix (ECM) refers to the non-cellular components of the tumour microenvironment, fundamentally providing a supportive scaffold for cellular anchorage and transducing signaling cues that orchestrate cellular behaviour and function. The ECM integrity is abrogated in several cases of cancer, ending in aberrant activation of a number of mechanotransduction pathways and induction of multiple tumorigenic events such as extended proliferation, cell death resistance, epithelial-mesenchymal transition and most importantly the development of chemoresistance. In this regard, the present study mainly aims to elucidate how the ECM-stiffening process may contribute to the development of chemoresistance during cancer progression and what pharmacological approaches are required for tackling this issue. Hence, the first section of this review explains the process of ECM stiffening and the ways it may affect biochemical pathways to induce chemoresistance in a clinic. In addition, the second part focuses on describing some of the most important pharmacological agents capable of targeting ECM components and underlying pathways for overcoming ECM-induced chemoresistance. Finally, the third part discusses the obtained results from the application of these agents in the clinic for overcoming chemoresistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Behrad Darvishi
- grid.417689.5Recombinant Proteins Department, Breast Cancer Research Center, Motamed Cancer Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Eisavand
- grid.417689.5Recombinant Proteins Department, Breast Cancer Research Center, Motamed Cancer Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Keivan Majidzadeh-A
- grid.417689.5Recombinant Proteins Department, Breast Cancer Research Center, Motamed Cancer Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Farahmand
- grid.417689.5Recombinant Proteins Department, Breast Cancer Research Center, Motamed Cancer Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
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9
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The extracellular matrix of hematopoietic stem cell niches. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 181:114069. [PMID: 34838648 PMCID: PMC8860232 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.114069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Comprehensive overview of different classes of ECM molecules in the HSC niche. Overview of current knowledge on role of biophysics of the HSC niche. Description of approaches to create artificial stem cell niches for several application. Importance of considering ECM in drug development and testing.
Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) are the life-long source of all types of blood cells. Their function is controlled by their direct microenvironment, the HSC niche in the bone marrow. Although the importance of the extracellular matrix (ECM) in the niche by orchestrating niche architecture and cellular function is widely acknowledged, it is still underexplored. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the ECM in HSC niches. For this purpose, we first briefly outline HSC niche biology and then review the role of the different classes of ECM molecules in the niche one by one and how they are perceived by cells. Matrix remodeling and the emerging importance of biophysics in HSC niche function are discussed. Finally, the application of the current knowledge of ECM in the niche in form of artificial HSC niches for HSC expansion or targeted differentiation as well as drug testing is reviewed.
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Chung SW, Xie Y, Suk JS. Overcoming physical stromal barriers to cancer immunotherapy. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2021; 11:2430-2447. [PMID: 34351575 PMCID: PMC8571040 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-021-01036-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Immunotherapy has emerged as an unprecedented hope for the treatment of notoriously refractory cancers. Numerous investigational drugs and immunotherapy-including combination regimens are under preclinical and clinical investigation. However, only a small patient subpopulation across different types of cancer responds to the therapy due to the presence of several mechanisms of resistance. There have been extensive efforts to overcome this limitation and to expand the patient population that could be benefited by this state-of-the-art therapeutic modality. Among various causes of the resistance, we here focus on physical stromal barriers that impede the access of immunotherapeutic drug molecules and/or native and engineered immune cells to cancer tissues and cells. Two primary stromal barriers that contribute to the resistance include aberrant tumor vasculatures and excessive extracellular matrix build-ups that restrict extravasation and infiltration, respectively, of molecular and cellular immunotherapeutic agents into tumor tissues. Here, we review the features of these barriers that limit the efficacy of immunotherapy and discuss recent advances that could potentially help immunotherapy overcome the barriers and improve therapeutic outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seung Woo Chung
- Center for Nanomedicine, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 400 N. Broadway, Baltimore, MD, 602921231, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21231, USA
| | - Yunxuan Xie
- Center for Nanomedicine, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 400 N. Broadway, Baltimore, MD, 602921231, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21231, USA
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, 21218, USA
| | - Jung Soo Suk
- Center for Nanomedicine, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 400 N. Broadway, Baltimore, MD, 602921231, USA.
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21231, USA.
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, 21218, USA.
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11
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Fu Y, Saraswat AL, Monpara J, Patel K. Stromal disruption facilitating invasion of a 'nano-arsenal' into the solid tumor. Drug Discov Today 2021; 27:1132-1141. [PMID: 34823002 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2021.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Owing to the indispensable role of nanotechnology in cancer therapy, it is imperative to comprehend every aspect limiting its therapeutic potential. Several preclinical reports have demonstrated the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR)-mediated preferential tumor uptake of nanoparticles. However, the therapeutic outcome of nanotherapeutics is severely compromised by heterogeneous drug distribution and insufficient penetration of nanomedicine in a solid tumor owing to the dense tumor extracellular matrix (ECM). Herein, we elaborate on various preclinically investigated tumor stromal disrupting strategies, which we call 'cannons', to compromise the impenetrable 'fortress-like' solid tumor microenvironment. We have described and summarized major approaches to enhance the penetration of a 'nano-arsenal' in solid tumors. ECM remodeling strategies could be very beneficial in enhancing the therapeutic efficacy of monoclonal antibodies and translational nanomedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yige Fu
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA; Genentech, Inc, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Aishwarya L Saraswat
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA
| | | | - Ketan Patel
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, NY 11439, USA.
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12
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Martinez J, Smith PC. The Dynamic Interaction between Extracellular Matrix Remodeling and Breast Tumor Progression. Cells 2021; 10:1046. [PMID: 33946660 PMCID: PMC8145942 DOI: 10.3390/cells10051046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Desmoplastic tumors correspond to a unique tissue structure characterized by the abnormal deposition of extracellular matrix. Breast tumors are a typical example of this type of lesion, a property that allows its palpation and early detection. Fibrillar type I collagen is a major component of tumor desmoplasia and its accumulation is causally linked to tumor cell survival and metastasis. For many years, the desmoplastic phenomenon was considered to be a reaction and response of the host tissue against tumor cells and, accordingly, designated as "desmoplastic reaction". This notion has been challenged in the last decades when desmoplastic tissue was detected in breast tissue in the absence of tumor. This finding suggests that desmoplasia is a preexisting condition that stimulates the development of a malignant phenotype. With this perspective, in the present review, we analyze the role of extracellular matrix remodeling in the development of the desmoplastic response. Importantly, during the discussion, we also analyze the impact of obesity and cell metabolism as critical drivers of tissue remodeling during the development of desmoplasia. New knowledge derived from the dynamic remodeling of the extracellular matrix may lead to novel targets of interest for early diagnosis or therapy in the context of breast tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Martinez
- Cell Biology Laboratory, INTA, University of Chile, Santiago 7810000, Chile
| | - Patricio C. Smith
- School of Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8330024, Chile
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13
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The Role of Biomimetic Hypoxia on Cancer Cell Behaviour in 3D Models: A Systematic Review. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13061334. [PMID: 33809554 PMCID: PMC7999912 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13061334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide. The advancements in 3D tumour models provide in vitro test-beds to study cancer growth, metastasis and response to therapy. We conducted this systematic review on existing experimental studies in order to identify and summarize key biomimetic tumour microenvironmental features which affect aspects of cancer biology. The review noted the significance of in vitro hypoxia and 3D tumour models on epithelial to mesenchymal transition, drug resistance, invasion and migration of cancer cells. We highlight the importance of various experimental parameters used in these studies and their subsequent effects on cancer cell behaviour. Abstract The development of biomimetic, human tissue models is recognized as being an important step for transitioning in vitro research findings to the native in vivo response. Oftentimes, 2D models lack the necessary complexity to truly recapitulate cellular responses. The introduction of physiological features into 3D models informs us of how each component feature alters specific cellular response. We conducted a systematic review of research papers where the focus was the introduction of key biomimetic features into in vitro models of cancer, including 3D culture and hypoxia. We analysed outcomes from these and compiled our findings into distinct groupings to ascertain which biomimetic parameters correlated with specific responses. We found a number of biomimetic features which primed cancer cells to respond in a manner which matched in vivo response.
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Blanco‐Fernandez B, Gaspar VM, Engel E, Mano JF. Proteinaceous Hydrogels for Bioengineering Advanced 3D Tumor Models. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2021; 8:2003129. [PMID: 33643799 PMCID: PMC7887602 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202003129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2020] [Revised: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
The establishment of tumor microenvironment using biomimetic in vitro models that recapitulate key tumor hallmarks including the tumor supporting extracellular matrix (ECM) is in high demand for accelerating the discovery and preclinical validation of more effective anticancer therapeutics. To date, ECM-mimetic hydrogels have been widely explored for 3D in vitro disease modeling owing to their bioactive properties that can be further adapted to the biochemical and biophysical properties of native tumors. Gathering on this momentum, herein the current landscape of intrinsically bioactive protein and peptide hydrogels that have been employed for 3D tumor modeling are discussed. Initially, the importance of recreating such microenvironment and the main considerations for generating ECM-mimetic 3D hydrogel in vitro tumor models are showcased. A comprehensive discussion focusing protein, peptide, or hybrid ECM-mimetic platforms employed for modeling cancer cells/stroma cross-talk and for the preclinical evaluation of candidate anticancer therapies is also provided. Further development of tumor-tunable, proteinaceous or peptide 3D microtesting platforms with microenvironment-specific biophysical and biomolecular cues will contribute to better mimic the in vivo scenario, and improve the predictability of preclinical screening of generalized or personalized therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Blanco‐Fernandez
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO – Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of AveiroCampus Universitário de SantiagoAveiro3810‐193Portugal
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC)The Barcelona Institute of Science and TechnologyBaldiri Reixac 10–12Barcelona08028Spain
| | - Vítor M. Gaspar
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO – Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of AveiroCampus Universitário de SantiagoAveiro3810‐193Portugal
| | - Elisabeth Engel
- Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC)The Barcelona Institute of Science and TechnologyBaldiri Reixac 10–12Barcelona08028Spain
- Materials Science and Metallurgical EngineeringPolytechnical University of Catalonia (UPC)Eduard Maristany 16Barcelona08019Spain
- CIBER en BioingenieríaBiomateriales y NanomedicinaCIBER‐BBNMadrid28029Spain
| | - João F. Mano
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO – Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of AveiroCampus Universitário de SantiagoAveiro3810‐193Portugal
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Targeting Lysyl Oxidase Family Meditated Matrix Cross-Linking as an Anti-Stromal Therapy in Solid Tumours. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13030491. [PMID: 33513979 PMCID: PMC7865543 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13030491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary To improve efficacy of solid cancer treatment, efforts have shifted towards targeting both the cancer cells and the surrounding tumour tissue they grow in. The lysyl oxidase (LOX) family of enzymes underpin the fibrotic remodeling of the tumour microenvironment to promote both cancer growth, spread throughout the body and modulate response to therapies. This review examines how the lysyl oxidase family is involved in tumour development, how they can be targeted, and their potential as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in solid tumours. Abstract The lysyl oxidase (LOX) family of enzymes are a major driver in the biogenesis of desmoplastic matrix at the primary tumour and secondary metastatic sites. With the increasing interest in and development of anti-stromal therapies aimed at improving clinical outcomes of cancer patients, the Lox family has emerged as a potentially powerful clinical target. This review examines how lysyl oxidase family dysregulation in solid cancers contributes to disease progression and poor patient outcomes, as well as an evaluation of the preclinical landscape of LOX family targeting therapeutics. We also discuss the suitability of the LOX family as a diagnostic and/or prognostic marker in solid tumours.
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Cortesi M, Liverani C, Mercatali L, Ibrahim T, Giordano E. Development and validation of an in-silico tool for the study of therapeutic agents in 3D cell cultures. Comput Biol Med 2021; 130:104211. [PMID: 33476993 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2021.104211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Revised: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Computational models constitute a fundamental asset for cancer research and drug R&D, as they provide controlled environments for testing of hypotheses and are characterized by the total knowledge of the system. These features are particularly useful for 3D cell culture models where a complex interaction among cells and their environments ensues. In this work, we present a programmable simulator capable of reproducing the behavior of cells cultured in 3D scaffolds and their response to pharmacological treatment. This system will be shown to be able to accurately describe the temporal evolution of the density of a population of MDA-MB-231 cells following their treatment with different concentrations of doxorubicin, together with a newly described drug-resistance mechanism and potential re-sensitization strategy. An extensive technical description of this model will be coupled to its experimental validation and to an analysis aimed at identifying which variables and behaviors account for differences in the response to treatment. Comprehensively, this work contributes to the growing field of integrated in-silico/in-vitro analysis of biological processes which has great potential for both the increase of our scientific knowledge and the development of novel, more effective treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Cortesi
- BioEngLab, Health Science and Technology, Interdepartmental Center for Industrial Research (HST-CIRI), Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Ozzano Emilia, Italy.
| | - C Liverani
- Osteoncology and Rare Tumors Center, Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per Lo Studio e La Cura Dei Tumori (IRST) IRCCS, Meldola, Italy.
| | - L Mercatali
- Osteoncology and Rare Tumors Center, Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per Lo Studio e La Cura Dei Tumori (IRST) IRCCS, Meldola, Italy.
| | - T Ibrahim
- Osteoncology and Rare Tumors Center, Istituto Scientifico Romagnolo per Lo Studio e La Cura Dei Tumori (IRST) IRCCS, Meldola, Italy.
| | - E Giordano
- BioEngLab, Health Science and Technology, Interdepartmental Center for Industrial Research (HST-CIRI), Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Ozzano Emilia, Italy; Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Engineering "S.Cavalcanti", Department of Electrical, Electronic and Information Engineering "G.Marconi" (DEI), Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Cesena, Italy; Advanced Research Center on Electronic Systems (ARCES), Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Italy.
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17
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Augimeri G, Gelsomino L, Plastina P, Giordano C, Barone I, Catalano S, Andò S, Bonofiglio D. Natural and Synthetic PPARγ Ligands in Tumor Microenvironment: A New Potential Strategy against Breast Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E9721. [PMID: 33352766 PMCID: PMC7767156 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21249721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple lines of evidence indicate that activation of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) by natural or synthetic ligands exerts tumor suppressive effects in different types of cancer, including breast carcinoma. Over the past decades a new picture of breast cancer as a complex disease consisting of neoplastic epithelial cells and surrounding stroma named the tumor microenvironment (TME) has emerged. Indeed, TME is now recognized as a pivotal element for breast cancer development and progression. Novel strategies targeting both epithelial and stromal components are under development or undergoing clinical trials. In this context, the aim of the present review is to summarize PPARγ activity in breast TME focusing on the role of this receptor on both epithelial/stromal cells and extracellular matrix components of the breast cancer microenvironment. The information provided from the in vitro and in vivo research indicates PPARγ ligands as potential agents with regards to the battle against breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppina Augimeri
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende (CS), Italy; (G.A.); (L.G.); (P.P.); (C.G.); (I.B.); (S.C.); (S.A.)
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Luca Gelsomino
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende (CS), Italy; (G.A.); (L.G.); (P.P.); (C.G.); (I.B.); (S.C.); (S.A.)
| | - Pierluigi Plastina
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende (CS), Italy; (G.A.); (L.G.); (P.P.); (C.G.); (I.B.); (S.C.); (S.A.)
| | - Cinzia Giordano
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende (CS), Italy; (G.A.); (L.G.); (P.P.); (C.G.); (I.B.); (S.C.); (S.A.)
- Centro Sanitario, University of Calabria, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende (CS), Italy
| | - Ines Barone
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende (CS), Italy; (G.A.); (L.G.); (P.P.); (C.G.); (I.B.); (S.C.); (S.A.)
- Centro Sanitario, University of Calabria, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende (CS), Italy
| | - Stefania Catalano
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende (CS), Italy; (G.A.); (L.G.); (P.P.); (C.G.); (I.B.); (S.C.); (S.A.)
- Centro Sanitario, University of Calabria, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende (CS), Italy
| | - Sebastiano Andò
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende (CS), Italy; (G.A.); (L.G.); (P.P.); (C.G.); (I.B.); (S.C.); (S.A.)
- Centro Sanitario, University of Calabria, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende (CS), Italy
| | - Daniela Bonofiglio
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende (CS), Italy; (G.A.); (L.G.); (P.P.); (C.G.); (I.B.); (S.C.); (S.A.)
- Centro Sanitario, University of Calabria, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende (CS), Italy
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Targeting lysyl oxidase (LOX) overcomes chemotherapy resistance in triple negative breast cancer. Nat Commun 2020; 11:2416. [PMID: 32415208 PMCID: PMC7229173 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-16199-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 174] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2019] [Accepted: 04/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemoresistance is a major obstacle in triple negative breast cancer (TNBC), the most aggressive breast cancer subtype. Here we identify hypoxia-induced ECM re-modeler, lysyl oxidase (LOX) as a key inducer of chemoresistance by developing chemoresistant TNBC tumors in vivo and characterizing their transcriptomes by RNA-sequencing. Inhibiting LOX reduces collagen cross-linking and fibronectin assembly, increases drug penetration, and downregulates ITGA5/FN1 expression, resulting in inhibition of FAK/Src signaling, induction of apoptosis and re-sensitization to chemotherapy. Similarly, inhibiting FAK/Src results in chemosensitization. These effects are observed in 3D-cultured cell lines, tumor organoids, chemoresistant xenografts, syngeneic tumors and PDX models. Re-expressing the hypoxia-repressed miR-142-3p, which targets HIF1A, LOX and ITGA5, causes further suppression of the HIF-1α/LOX/ITGA5/FN1 axis. Notably, higher LOX, ITGA5, or FN1, or lower miR-142-3p levels are associated with shorter survival in chemotherapy-treated TNBC patients. These results provide strong pre-clinical rationale for developing and testing LOX inhibitors to overcome chemoresistance in TNBC patients. The development of chemoresistance is a major hurdle in triple negative breast cancer (TNBC). Here, the authors show that lysyl oxidase (LOX) is overexpressed in chemoresistant TNBCs, and when inhibited reduces collagen cross-linking, fibronectin fibril assembly, and downstream integrin signalling, overcoming resistance.
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Henke E, Nandigama R, Ergün S. Extracellular Matrix in the Tumor Microenvironment and Its Impact on Cancer Therapy. Front Mol Biosci 2020; 6:160. [PMID: 32118030 PMCID: PMC7025524 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2019.00160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 540] [Impact Index Per Article: 135.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Solid tumors are complex organ-like structures that consist not only of tumor cells but also of vasculature, extracellular matrix (ECM), stromal, and immune cells. Often, this tumor microenvironment (TME) comprises the larger part of the overall tumor mass. Like the other components of the TME, the ECM in solid tumors differs significantly from that in normal organs. Intratumoral signaling, transport mechanisms, metabolisms, oxygenation, and immunogenicity are strongly affected if not controlled by the ECM. Exerting this regulatory control, the ECM does not only influence malignancy and growth of the tumor but also its response toward therapy. Understanding the particularities of the ECM in solid tumor is necessary to develop approaches to interfere with its negative effect. In this review, we will also highlight the current understanding of the physical, cellular, and molecular mechanisms by which the pathological tumor ECM affects the efficiency of radio-, chemo-, and immunotherapy. Finally, we will discuss the various strategies to target and modify the tumor ECM and how they could be utilized to improve response to therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik Henke
- Department of Medicine, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Rajender Nandigama
- Department of Medicine, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Süleyman Ergün
- Department of Medicine, Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Universität Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
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Ionizing radiation attracts tumor targeting and apoptosis by radiotropic lysyl oxidase traceable nanoparticles. NANOMEDICINE-NANOTECHNOLOGY BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2019; 24:102141. [PMID: 31830613 DOI: 10.1016/j.nano.2019.102141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2019] [Revised: 10/23/2019] [Accepted: 11/29/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Lysyl oxidase (LOX) is a cell-secreted amine oxidase that crosslinks collagen and elastin in extracellular microenvironment. LOX-traceable nanoparticles (LOXab-NPs) consisting of LOX antibodies (LOXab) and paclitaxel, can accumulate at high concentrations at radiation-treated target sites, as a tumor-targeting drug carrier for chemotherapy. Tumor-targeting and anticancer effects of PLGA based LOXab-NPs in vitro and in vivo were evaluated at radiation-targeted site. In the in vivo A549 lung carcinoma xenograft model, we showed highly specific tumor targeting (above 7.0 times higher) of LOXab-NPs on irradiated tumors. Notably, systemically administered NPs delayed tumor growth, reducing tumor volumes by more than 2 times compared with non-irradiated groups (222% vs. >500%) over 2 weeks. Radiotropic LOXab-NPs can serve as chemotherapeutic vehicles for combined targeted chemo-radiotherapy in clinical oncology.
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21
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Liu T, Zhou L, Li D, Andl T, Zhang Y. Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts Build and Secure the Tumor Microenvironment. Front Cell Dev Biol 2019; 7:60. [PMID: 31106200 PMCID: PMC6492564 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2019.00060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 288] [Impact Index Per Article: 57.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2019] [Accepted: 04/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumor cells reside in a highly complex and heterogeneous tumor microenvironment (TME), which is composed of a myriad of genetically stable non-cancer cells, including fibroblasts, immune cells, endothelial cells, and epithelial cells, and a tumor-specific extracellular matrix (ECM). Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), as an abundant and active stromal cell population in the TME, function as the signaling center and remodeling machine to aid the creation of a desmoplastic tumor niche. Although there is no denial that the TME and CAFs may have anti-tumor effects as well, a great deal of findings reported in recent years have convincingly revealed the tumor-promoting effects of CAFs and CAF-derived ECM proteins, enzymes, chemical factors and other downstream effectors. While there is growing enthusiasm for the development of CAF-targeting therapies, a better understanding of the complexities of CAF-ECM and CAF-cancer cell interactions is necessary before novel therapeutic strategies targeting the malignant tumor “soil” can be successfully implemented in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianyi Liu
- Division of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Linli Zhou
- Division of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Danni Li
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Guangxi University for Nationalities, Nanning, China
| | - Thomas Andl
- Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, United States
| | - Yuhang Zhang
- Division of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, United States
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22
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Yeoman BM, Katira P. A stochastic algorithm for accurately predicting path persistence of cells migrating in 3D matrix environments. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0207216. [PMID: 30440015 PMCID: PMC6237354 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0207216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2018] [Accepted: 10/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell mobility plays a critical role in immune response, wound healing, and the rate of cancer metastasis and tumor progression. Mobility within a three-dimensional (3D) matrix environment can be characterized by the average velocity of cell migration and the persistence length of the path it follows. Computational models that aim to predict cell migration within such 3D environments need to be able predict both of these properties as a function of the various cellular and extra-cellular factors that influence the migration process. A large number of models have been developed to predict the velocity of cell migration driven by cellular protrusions in 3D environments. However, prediction of the persistence of a cell's path is a more tedious matter, as it requires simulating cells for a long time while they migrate through the model extra-cellular matrix (ECM). This can be a computationally expensive process, and only recently have there been attempts to quantify cell persistence as a function of key cellular or matrix properties. Here, we propose a new stochastic algorithm that can simulate and analyze 3D cell migration occurring over days with a computation time of minutes, opening new possibilities of testing and predicting long-term cell migration behavior as a function of a large variety of cell and matrix properties. In this model, the matrix elements are generated as needed and stochastically based on the biophysical and biochemical properties of the ECM the cell migrates through. This approach significantly reduces the computational resources required to track and calculate cell matrix interactions. Using this algorithm, we predict the effect of various cellular and matrix properties such as cell polarity, cell mechanoactivity, matrix fiber density, matrix stiffness, fiber alignment, and fiber binding site density on path persistence of cellular migration and the mean squared displacement of cells over long periods of time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Michael Yeoman
- Mechanical Engineering Department, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, United States of America
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States of America
| | - Parag Katira
- Mechanical Engineering Department, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, United States of America
- Computational Science Research Center, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, United States of America
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Restriction of drug transport by the tumor environment. Histochem Cell Biol 2018; 150:631-648. [DOI: 10.1007/s00418-018-1744-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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Hong CR, Bogle G, Wang J, Patel K, Pruijn FB, Wilson WR, Hicks KO. Bystander Effects of Hypoxia-Activated Prodrugs: Agent-Based Modeling Using Three Dimensional Cell Cultures. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:1013. [PMID: 30279659 PMCID: PMC6153434 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.01013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2018] [Accepted: 08/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Intra-tumor heterogeneity represents a major barrier to anti-cancer therapies. One strategy to minimize this limitation relies on bystander effects via diffusion of cytotoxins from targeted cells. Hypoxia-activated prodrugs (HAPs) have the potential to exploit hypoxia in this way, but robust methods for measuring bystander effects are lacking. The objective of this study is to develop experimental models (monolayer, multilayer, and multicellular spheroid co-cultures) comprising 'activator' cells with high expression of prodrug-activating reductases and reductase-deficient 'target' cells, and to couple these with agent-based models (ABMs) that describe diffusion and reaction of prodrugs and their active metabolites, and killing probability for each cell. HCT116 cells were engineered as activators by overexpressing P450 oxidoreductase (POR) and as targets by knockout of POR, with fluorescent protein and antibiotic resistance markers to enable their quantitation in co-cultures. We investigated two HAPs with very different pharmacology: SN30000 is metabolized to DNA-breaking free radicals under hypoxia, while the dinitrobenzamide PR104A generates DNA-crosslinking nitrogen mustard metabolites. In anoxic spheroid co-cultures, increasing the proportion of activator cells decreased killing of both activators and targets by SN30000. An ABM parameterized by measuring SN30000 cytotoxicity in monolayers and diffusion-reaction in multilayers accurately predicted SN30000 activity in spheroids, demonstrating the lack of bystander effects and that rapid metabolic consumption of SN30000 inhibited prodrug penetration. In contrast, killing of targets by PR104A in anoxic spheroids was markedly increased by activators, demonstrating that a bystander effect more than compensates any penetration limitation. However, the ABM based on the well-studied hydroxylamine and amine metabolites of PR104A did not fit the cell survival data, indicating a need to reassess its cellular pharmacology. Characterization of extracellular metabolites of PR104A in anoxic cultures identified more stable, lipophilic, activated dichloro mustards with greater tissue diffusion distances. Including these metabolites explicitly in the ABM provided a good description of activator and target cell killing by PR104A in spheroids. This study represents the most direct demonstration of a hypoxic bystander effect for PR104A to date, and demonstrates the power of combining mathematical modeling of pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics with multicellular culture models to dissect bystander effects of targeted drug carriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cho R. Hong
- Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Gib Bogle
- Auckland Bioengineering Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Maurice Wilkins Centre, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Jingli Wang
- Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Kashyap Patel
- Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Frederik B. Pruijn
- Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - William R. Wilson
- Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Maurice Wilkins Centre, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Kevin O. Hicks
- Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Maurice Wilkins Centre, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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Rossow L, Veitl S, Vorlová S, Wax JK, Kuhn AE, Maltzahn V, Upcin B, Karl F, Hoffmann H, Gätzner S, Kallius M, Nandigama R, Scheld D, Irmak S, Herterich S, Zernecke A, Ergün S, Henke E. LOX-catalyzed collagen stabilization is a proximal cause for intrinsic resistance to chemotherapy. Oncogene 2018; 37:4921-4940. [PMID: 29780168 PMCID: PMC6127085 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-018-0320-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2018] [Revised: 03/23/2018] [Accepted: 04/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The potential of altering the tumor ECM to improve drug response remains fairly unexplored. To identify targets for modification of the ECM aiming to improve drug response and overcome resistance, we analyzed expression data sets from pre-treatment patient cohorts. Cross-evaluation identified a subset of chemoresistant tumors characterized by increased expression of collagens and collagen-stabilizing enzymes. We demonstrate that strong collagen expression and stabilization sets off a vicious circle of self-propagating hypoxia, malignant signaling, and aberrant angiogenesis that can be broken by an appropriate auxiliary intervention: Interfering with collagen stabilization by inhibition of lysyl oxidases significantly enhanced response to chemotherapy in various tumor models, even in metastatic disease. Inhibition of collagen stabilization by itself can reduce or enhance tumor growth depending on the tumor type. The mechanistical basis for this behavior is the dependence of the individual tumor on nutritional supply on one hand and on high tissue stiffness for FAK signaling on the other.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonie Rossow
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology II, Universität Würzburg, Koellikerstrasse 6, 97070, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Simona Veitl
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology II, Universität Würzburg, Koellikerstrasse 6, 97070, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Sandra Vorlová
- Institute of Experimental Biomedicine, Universitätsklinikum Würzburg, Josef-Schneider-Strasse 2, 97082, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Jacqueline K Wax
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology II, Universität Würzburg, Koellikerstrasse 6, 97070, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Anja E Kuhn
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology II, Universität Würzburg, Koellikerstrasse 6, 97070, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Verena Maltzahn
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology II, Universität Würzburg, Koellikerstrasse 6, 97070, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Berin Upcin
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology II, Universität Würzburg, Koellikerstrasse 6, 97070, Würzburg, Germany.,School of Health Sciences, Bilgi University, 34440, Beyoğlu İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Franziska Karl
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology II, Universität Würzburg, Koellikerstrasse 6, 97070, Würzburg, Germany.,Institute of Experimental Biomedicine, Universitätsklinikum Würzburg, Josef-Schneider-Strasse 2, 97082, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Helene Hoffmann
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology II, Universität Würzburg, Koellikerstrasse 6, 97070, Würzburg, Germany.,Institute of Experimental Biomedicine, Universitätsklinikum Würzburg, Josef-Schneider-Strasse 2, 97082, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Sabine Gätzner
- Institute of Tissue Engineering, Universität Würzburg, Roentgenring 11, 97070, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Matthias Kallius
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology II, Universität Würzburg, Koellikerstrasse 6, 97070, Würzburg, Germany.,Graduate School of Life Science, Josef-Schneider-Strasse 2, 97082, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Rajender Nandigama
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology II, Universität Würzburg, Koellikerstrasse 6, 97070, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Daniela Scheld
- Zentrallabor, Universitätsklinikum Würzburg, Josef-Schneider-Strasse 2, 97082, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Ster Irmak
- School of Health Sciences, Bilgi University, 34440, Beyoğlu İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Sabine Herterich
- Zentrallabor, Universitätsklinikum Würzburg, Josef-Schneider-Strasse 2, 97082, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Alma Zernecke
- Institute of Experimental Biomedicine, Universitätsklinikum Würzburg, Josef-Schneider-Strasse 2, 97082, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Süleyman Ergün
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology II, Universität Würzburg, Koellikerstrasse 6, 97070, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Erik Henke
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology II, Universität Würzburg, Koellikerstrasse 6, 97070, Würzburg, Germany. .,Graduate School of Life Science, Josef-Schneider-Strasse 2, 97082, Würzburg, Germany.
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Bhavsar C, Momin M, Khan T, Omri A. Targeting tumor microenvironment to curb chemoresistance via novel drug delivery strategies. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2018; 15:641-663. [PMID: 29301448 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2018.1424825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Tumor is a heterogeneous mass of malignant cells co-existing with non-malignant cells. This co-existence evolves from the initial developmental stages of the tumor and is one of the hallmarks of cancer providing a protumorigenic niche known as tumor microenvironment (TME). Proliferation, invasiveness, metastatic potential and maintenance of stemness through cross-talk between tumors and its stroma forms the basis of TME. AREAS COVERED The article highlights the developmental phases of a tumor from dysplasia to the formation of clinically detectable tumors. The authors discuss the mechanistic stages involved in the formation of TME and its contribution in tumor outgrowth and chemoresistance. The authors have reviewed various approaches for targeting TME and its hallmarks along with their advantages and pitfalls. The authors also highlight cancer stem cells (CSCs) that are resistant to chemotherapeutics and thus a primary reason for tumor recurrence thereby, posing a challenge for the oncologists. EXPERT OPINION Recent understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in acquired chemoresistance has enabled scientists to target the tumor niche and TME and modulate and/or disrupt this communication leading to the transformation from a tumor-supportive niche environment to a tumor-non-supporting environment and give synergistic results towards an effective management of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chintan Bhavsar
- a Department of Pharmaceutics, SVKMs Dr. Bhanuben Nanavati College of Pharmacy , University of Mumbai , Mumbai , India
| | - Munira Momin
- a Department of Pharmaceutics, SVKMs Dr. Bhanuben Nanavati College of Pharmacy , University of Mumbai , Mumbai , India
| | - Tabassum Khan
- b Department of Quality Assurance and Pharmaceutical Chemistry, SVKMs Dr. Bhanuben Nanavati College of Pharmacy , University of Mumbai , Mumbai , India
| | - Abdelwahab Omri
- c The Novel Drug & Vaccine Delivery Systems Facility, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry , Laurentian University , Sudbury , ON , Canada
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Kumari S, Panda TK, Pradhan T. Lysyl Oxidase: Its Diversity in Health and Diseases. Indian J Clin Biochem 2017; 32:134-141. [PMID: 28428687 PMCID: PMC5382067 DOI: 10.1007/s12291-016-0576-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2016] [Accepted: 05/06/2016] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The mechanical properties of extracellular matrix (ECM) and connective tissues is largely dependent on the collagen and elastin structure. Lysyl oxidase (LOX) plays a critical role in the formation and repair of the ECM by oxidizing lysine residues in elastin and collagen, thereby initiating the formation of covalent cross linkages which stabilize these fibrous proteins. Due to its multiple functions both extracellularly and intracellularly, lysyl oxidase is involved in several processes in the tumorigenic pathway, in many different cancer types and stages. Alteration in LOX activity is implicated in many diseases and disorders including inflammation and inflammatory diseases, fibrosis of distinct organs and fibrotic disorders, cancer promotion and progression. There are only sparse reports of mutations or epigenetic alterations in the LOX gene. This review provides the recent clinical developments in the molecular mechanisms and pathologic process, pointing out LOX as a potential therapeutic target in translational medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suchitra Kumari
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Bhubaneswar, India
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28
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Lysyl Oxidase and the Tumor Microenvironment. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 18:ijms18010062. [PMID: 28036074 PMCID: PMC5297697 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18010062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2016] [Revised: 12/20/2016] [Accepted: 12/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The lysyl oxidase (LOX) family of oxidases contains a group of extracellular copper-dependent enzymes that catalyze the cross-linking of collagen and elastin by oxidation, thus maintaining the rigidity and structural stability of the extracellular matrix (ECM). Aberrant expression or activation of LOX alters the cellular microenvironment, leading to many diseases, including atherosclerosis, tissue fibrosis, and cancer. Recently, a number of studies have shown that LOX is overexpressed in most cancers and that it is involved in the regulation of tumor progression and metastasis. In contrast, a few reports have also indicated the tumor-suppressing role of LOX. In this short review, we discuss recent research on the correlations between LOX and cancer. Further, the role of LOX in tumor microenvironment remodeling, tumorigenesis, and metastasis and the underlying mechanisms have also been elucidated.
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Fibrosis and Cancer: Partners in Crime or Opposing Forces? Trends Cancer 2016; 2:279-282. [DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2016.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2016] [Revised: 05/08/2016] [Accepted: 05/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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Zhang I, Cui Y, Amiri A, Ding Y, Campbell RE, Maysinger D. Pharmacological inhibition of lipid droplet formation enhances the effectiveness of curcumin in glioblastoma. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2016; 100:66-76. [PMID: 26763536 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2015.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2015] [Revised: 12/14/2015] [Accepted: 12/18/2015] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Increased lipid droplet number and fatty acid synthesis allow glioblastoma multiforme, the most common and aggressive type of brain cancer, to withstand accelerated metabolic rates and resist therapeutic treatments. Lipid droplets are postulated to sequester hydrophobic therapeutic agents, thereby reducing drug effectiveness. We hypothesized that the inhibition of lipid droplet accumulation in glioblastoma cells using pyrrolidine-2, a cytoplasmic phospholipase A2 alpha inhibitor, can sensitize cancer cells to the killing effect of curcumin, a promising anticancer agent isolated from the turmeric spice. We observed that curcumin localized in the lipid droplets of human U251N glioblastoma cells. Reduction of lipid droplet number using pyrrolidine-2 drastically enhanced the therapeutic effect of curcumin in both 2D and 3D glioblastoma cell models. The mode of cell death involved was found to be mediated by caspase-3. Comparatively, the current clinical chemotherapeutic standard, temozolomide, was significantly less effective in inducing glioblastoma cell death. Together, our results suggest that the inhibition of lipid droplet accumulation is an effective way to enhance the chemotherapeutic effect of curcumin against glioblastoma multiforme.
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Affiliation(s)
- Issan Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Yiming Cui
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Abdolali Amiri
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Yidan Ding
- Department of Chemistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | | | - Dusica Maysinger
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.
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