1
|
Dhungel N, Dragoi AM. Exploring the multifaceted role of direct interaction between cancer cells and fibroblasts in cancer progression. Front Mol Biosci 2024; 11:1379971. [PMID: 38863965 PMCID: PMC11165130 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2024.1379971] [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: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
The interaction between the tumor microenvironment (TME) and the cancer cells is a complex and mutually beneficial system that leads to rapid cancer cells proliferation, metastasis, and resistance to therapy. It is now recognized that cancer cells are not isolated, and tumor progression is governed among others, by many components of the TME. The reciprocal cross-talk between cancer cells and their microenvironment can be indirect through the secretion of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins and paracrine signaling through exosomes, cytokines, and growth factors, or direct by cell-to-cell contact mediated by cell surface receptors and adhesion molecules. Among TME components, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are of unique interest. As one of the most abundant components of the TME, CAFs play key roles in the reorganization of the extracellular matrix, facilitating metastasis and chemotherapy evasion. Both direct and indirect roles have been described for CAFs in modulating tumor progression. In this review, we focus on recent advances in understanding the role of direct contact between cancer cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in driving tumor development and metastasis. We also summarize recent findings on the role of direct contact between cancer cells and CAFs in chemotherapy resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nilu Dhungel
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, LSUHSC, Shreveport, LA, United States
| | - Ana-Maria Dragoi
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, LSUHSC, Shreveport, LA, United States
- Feist-Weiller Cancer Center, INLET Core, LSUHSC, Shreveport, LA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Feng S, Ding B, Dai Z, Yin H, Ding Y, Liu S, Zhang K, Lin H, Xiao Z, Shen Y. Cancer-associated fibroblast-secreted FGF7 as an ovarian cancer progression promoter. J Transl Med 2024; 22:280. [PMID: 38491511 PMCID: PMC10941588 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05085-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ovarian cancer (OC) is distinguished by its aggressive nature and the limited efficacy of current treatment strategies. Recent studies have emphasized the significant role of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in OC development and progression. METHODS Employing sophisticated machine learning techniques on bulk transcriptomic datasets, we identified fibroblast growth factor 7 (FGF7), derived from CAFs, as a potential oncogenic factor. We investigated the relationship between FGF7 expression and various clinical parameters. A series of in vitro experiments were undertaken to evaluate the effect of CAFs-derived FGF7 on OC cell activities, such as proliferation, migration, and invasion. Single-cell transcriptomic analysis was also conducted to elucidate the interaction between FGF7 and its receptor. Detailed mechanistic investigations sought to clarify the pathways through which FGF7 fosters OC progression. RESULTS Our findings indicate that higher FGF7 levels correlate with advanced tumor stages, increased vascular invasion, and poorer prognosis. CAFs-derived FGF7 significantly enhanced OC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Single-cell analysis and in vitro studies revealed that CAFs-derived FGF7 inhibits the ubiquitination and degradation of hypoxia-inducible factor 1 alpha (HIF-1α) via FGFR2 interaction. Activation of the FGF7/HIF-1α pathway resulted in the upregulation of mesenchymal markers and downregulation of epithelial markers. Importantly, in vivo treatment with neutralizing antibodies targeting CAFs-derived FGF7 substantially reduced tumor growth. CONCLUSION Neutralizing FGF7 in the medium or inhibiting HIF-1α signaling reversed the effects of FGF7-mediated EMT, emphasizing the dependence of FGF7-mediated EMT on HIF-1α activation. These findings suggest that targeting the FGF7/HIF-1α/EMT axis may offer new therapeutic opportunities to intervene in OC progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Songwei Feng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Bo Ding
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhu Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Han Yin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yue Ding
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Sicong Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ke Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hao Lin
- Department of Clinical Science and Research, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Zhongdang Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Yang Shen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Pampeno C, Opp S, Hurtado A, Meruelo D. Sindbis Virus Vaccine Platform: A Promising Oncolytic Virus-Mediated Approach for Ovarian Cancer Treatment. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2925. [PMID: 38474178 PMCID: PMC10932354 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
This review article provides a comprehensive overview of a novel Sindbis virus vaccine platform as potential immunotherapy for ovarian cancer patients. Ovarian cancer is the most lethal of all gynecological malignancies. The majority of high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) patients are diagnosed with advanced disease. Current treatment options are very aggressive and limited, resulting in tumor recurrences and 50-60% patient mortality within 5 years. The unique properties of armed oncolytic Sindbis virus vectors (SV) in vivo have garnered significant interest in recent years to potently target and treat ovarian cancer. We discuss the molecular biology of Sindbis virus, its mechanisms of action against ovarian cancer cells, preclinical in vivo studies, and future perspectives. The potential of Sindbis virus-based therapies for ovarian cancer treatment holds great promise and warrants further investigation. Investigations using other oncolytic viruses in preclinical studies and clinical trials are also presented.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christine Pampeno
- Department of Pathology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | | | - Alicia Hurtado
- Department of Pathology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Daniel Meruelo
- Department of Pathology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY 10016, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Fang Y, Xiao X, Wang J, Dasari S, Pepin D, Nephew KP, Zamarin D, Mitra AK. Cancer associated fibroblasts serve as an ovarian cancer stem cell niche through noncanonical Wnt5a signaling. NPJ Precis Oncol 2024; 8:7. [PMID: 38191909 PMCID: PMC10774407 DOI: 10.1038/s41698-023-00495-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Frequent relapse and chemoresistance cause poor outcome in ovarian cancer (OC) and cancer stem cells (CSCs) are important contributors. While most studies focus exclusively on CSCs, the role of the microenvironment in providing optimal conditions to maintain their tumor-initiating potential remains poorly understood. Cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are a major constituent of the OC tumor microenvironment and we show that CAFs and CSCs are enriched following chemotherapy in patient tumors. CAFs significantly increase OC cell resistance to carboplatin. Using heterotypic CAF-OC cocultures and in vivo limiting dilution assay, we confirm that the CAFs act by enriching the CSC population. CAFs increase the symmetric division of CSCs as well as the dedifferentiation of bulk OC cells into CSCs. The effect of CAFs is limited to OC cells in their immediate neighborhood, which can be prevented by inhibiting Wnt. Analysis of single cell RNA-seq data from OC patients reveal Wnt5a as the highest expressed Wnt in CAFs and that certain subpopulations of CAFs express higher levels of Wnt5a. Our findings demonstrate that Wnt5a from CAFs activate a noncanonical Wnt signaling pathway involving the ROR2/PKC/CREB1 axis in the neighboring CSCs. While canonical Wnt signaling is found to be predominant in interactions between cancer cells in patients, non-canonical Wnt pathway is activated by the CAF-OC crosstalk. Treatment with a Wnt5a inhibitor sensitizes tumors to carboplatin in vivo. Together, our results demonstrate a novel mechanism of CSC maintenance by signals from the microenvironmental CAFs, which can be targeted to treat OC chemoresistance and relapse.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yiming Fang
- Indiana University School of Medicine-Bloomington, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
- Indiana University Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Xue Xiao
- Indiana University School of Medicine-Bloomington, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
- Indiana University Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Ji Wang
- Indiana University School of Medicine-Bloomington, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
- Indiana University Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Subramanyam Dasari
- Indiana University School of Medicine-Bloomington, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
- Indiana University Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - David Pepin
- Pediatric Surgical Research Laboratories, Massachusetts General Hospital; Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kenneth P Nephew
- Indiana University School of Medicine-Bloomington, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
- Indiana University Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Dmitriy Zamarin
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Anirban K Mitra
- Indiana University School of Medicine-Bloomington, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA.
- Indiana University Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Hu D, Zhuo W, Gong P, Ji F, Zhang X, Chen Y, Mao M, Ju S, Pan Y, Shen J. Biological differences between normal and cancer-associated fibroblasts in breast cancer. Heliyon 2023; 9:e19803. [PMID: 37810030 PMCID: PMC10559169 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e19803] [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: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) constitute the primary constituents of the tumor microenvironment (TME) and exert significant influences on cancer progression. However, adequate comprehension of CAF profiles in breast cancer, as well as the precise mechanisms underlying their promotion of cancer, remains lacking. Objectives To discerns the biological differences between normal fibroblasts (NFs) and CAFs in breast cancer and explore the underlying mechanism. Methods Three pairs of CAFs and NFs were isolated from breast cancer patients of diverse subtypes who had not undergone prior radiotherapy or chemotherapy. Morphological characteristics of CAFs and NFs were assessed through optical and electron microscopy, their biological attributes were examined using cell counting kits and transwell assays, and their impact on breast cancer cells was simulated using a coculture system. Furthermore, the miRNA profiles of CAFs and NFs were sequenced via an Illumina HiSeq 2500 platform. Results CAFs exhibited higher growth rate and motility than NFs and a stronger potential to promote the malignancy of breast cancer cells. RNA sequencing of both NFs and CAFs revealed differentially expressed miRNAs with notable variability among distinct patients within their NFs and CAFs, while the enrichment of the target genes of differentially expressed miRNAs within both GO terms and KEGG pathways demonstrated significant similarity across patients with different profiles. Conclusion CAFs have greater malignancy and higher potential to influence the growth, migration, invasion and chemoresistance of cocultured breast cancer cells than NFs. In addition, the miRNAs that are differentially expressed in CAFs when compared to NFs display substantial variability across patients with distinct breast cancer subtypes, while the enrichment of target genes regulated by these miRNAs, within GO terms and KEGG pathways, remains remarkably consistent among patients with varying profiles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dengdi Hu
- Affiliated Cixi Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Ningbo, 315300, Zhejiang, China
| | - Wenying Zhuo
- Affiliated Cixi Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Ningbo, 315300, Zhejiang, China
- Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310016, Zhejiang, China
- , China (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education), China
- Biomedical Research Center and Key Laboratory of Biotherapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310016, Zhejiang, China
| | - Peirong Gong
- Affiliated Cixi Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Ningbo, 315300, Zhejiang, China
| | - Feiyang Ji
- Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310016, Zhejiang, China
- , China (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education), China
- Biomedical Research Center and Key Laboratory of Biotherapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310016, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xun Zhang
- Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310016, Zhejiang, China
- , China (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education), China
- Biomedical Research Center and Key Laboratory of Biotherapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310016, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yongxia Chen
- Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310016, Zhejiang, China
- , China (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education), China
- Biomedical Research Center and Key Laboratory of Biotherapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310016, Zhejiang, China
| | - Misha Mao
- Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310016, Zhejiang, China
- , China (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education), China
- Biomedical Research Center and Key Laboratory of Biotherapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310016, Zhejiang, China
| | - Siwei Ju
- Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310016, Zhejiang, China
- , China (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education), China
- Biomedical Research Center and Key Laboratory of Biotherapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310016, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yuehong Pan
- Affiliated Cixi Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Ningbo, 315300, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jun Shen
- Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310016, Zhejiang, China
- , China (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education), China
- Biomedical Research Center and Key Laboratory of Biotherapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310016, Zhejiang, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Wilczyński JR, Wilczyński M, Paradowska E. "DEPHENCE" system-a novel regimen of therapy that is urgently needed in the high-grade serous ovarian cancer-a focus on anti-cancer stem cell and anti-tumor microenvironment targeted therapies. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1201497. [PMID: 37448521 PMCID: PMC10338102 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1201497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer, especially high-grade serous type, is the most lethal gynecological malignancy. The lack of screening programs and the scarcity of symptomatology result in the late diagnosis in about 75% of affected women. Despite very demanding and aggressive surgical treatment, multiple-line chemotherapy regimens and both approved and clinically tested targeted therapies, the overall survival of patients is still unsatisfactory and disappointing. Research studies have recently brought some more understanding of the molecular diversity of the ovarian cancer, its unique intraperitoneal biology, the role of cancer stem cells, and the complexity of tumor microenvironment. There is a growing body of evidence that individualization of the treatment adjusted to the molecular and biochemical signature of the tumor as well as to the medical status of the patient should replace or supplement the foregoing therapy. In this review, we have proposed the principles of the novel regimen of the therapy that we called the "DEPHENCE" system, and we have extensively discussed the results of the studies focused on the ovarian cancer stem cells, other components of cancer metastatic niche, and, finally, clinical trials targeting these two environments. Through this, we have tried to present the evolving landscape of treatment options and put flesh on the experimental approach to attack the high-grade serous ovarian cancer multidirectionally, corresponding to the "DEPHENCE" system postulates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jacek R Wilczyński
- Department of Gynecological Surgery and Gynecological Oncology, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - Miłosz Wilczyński
- Department of Gynecological, Endoscopic and Oncological Surgery, Polish Mother's Health Center-Research Institute, Lodz, Poland
- Department of Surgical and Endoscopic Gynecology, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - Edyta Paradowska
- Laboratory of Virology, Institute of Medical Biology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, Lodz, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Koren Carmi Y, Khamaisi H, Adawi R, Noyman E, Gopas J, Mahajna J. Secreted Soluble Factors from Tumor-Activated Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Confer Platinum Chemoresistance to Ovarian Cancer Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24097730. [PMID: 37175439 PMCID: PMC10178190 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24097730] [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: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer (OC) ranks as the second most common type of gynecological malignancy, has poor survival rates, and is frequently diagnosed at an advanced stage. Platinum-based chemotherapy, such as carboplatin, represents the standard-of-care for OC. However, toxicity and acquired resistance to therapy have proven challenging for the treatment of patients. Chemoresistance, a principal obstacle to durable response in OC patients, is attributed to alterations within the cancer cells, and it can also be mediated by the tumor microenvironment (TME). In this study, we report that conditioned medium (CM) derived from murine and human stromal cells, MS-5 and HS-5, respectively, and tumor-activated HS-5, was active in conferring platinum chemoresistance to OC cells. Moreover, CM derived from differentiated murine pre-adipocyte (3T3-L1), but not undifferentiated pre-adipocyte cells, confers platinum chemoresistance to OC cells. Interestingly, CM derived from tumor-activated HS-5 was more effective in conferring chemoresistance than was CM derived from HS-5 cells. Various OC cells exhibit variable sensitivity to CM activity. Exploring CM content revealed the enrichment of a number of soluble factors in the tumor-activated HS-5, such as soluble uPAR (SuPAR), IL-6, and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF). FDA-approved JAK inhibitors were mildly effective in restoring platinum sensitivity in two of the three OC cell lines in the presence of CM. Moreover, Crizotinib, an ALK and c-MET inhibitor, in combination with platinum, blocked HGF's ability to promote platinum resistance and to restore platinum sensitivity to OC cells. Finally, exposure to 2-hydroxyestardiol (2HE2) was effective in restoring platinum sensitivity to OC cells exposed to CM. Our results showed the significance of soluble factors found in TME in promoting platinum chemoresistance and the potential of combination therapy to restore chemosensitivity to OC cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yifat Koren Carmi
- Department of Nutrition and Natural Products, Migal-Galilee Research Institute, Kiryat Shmona 11016, Israel
- Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Genetics, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 8400101, Israel
| | - Hazem Khamaisi
- Department of Nutrition and Natural Products, Migal-Galilee Research Institute, Kiryat Shmona 11016, Israel
| | - Rina Adawi
- Department of Nutrition and Natural Products, Migal-Galilee Research Institute, Kiryat Shmona 11016, Israel
| | - Eden Noyman
- Department of Nutrition and Natural Products, Migal-Galilee Research Institute, Kiryat Shmona 11016, Israel
| | - Jacob Gopas
- Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Genetics, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 8400101, Israel
- Department of Oncology, Soroka University Medical Center, Beer Sheva 8400101, Israel
| | - Jamal Mahajna
- Department of Nutrition and Natural Products, Migal-Galilee Research Institute, Kiryat Shmona 11016, Israel
- Department of Biotechnology, Tel Hai College, Kiryat Shmona 1220800, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Wojtowicz K, Nowicki M. The characterization of the sensitive ovarian cancer cell lines A2780 and W1 in response to ovarian CAFs. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2023; 662:1-7. [PMID: 37088000 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2023.04.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are one of the most abundant components of the tumor microenvironment (TME). CAFs have been implicated in tumor progression, extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, and treatment resistance. Drug resistance is the primary limiting factor in achieving cures for patients with cancer, particularly ovarian cancer. Therefore, inhibiting CAFs can be an effective strategies for cancer treatment. In this research, we studied whether CAFs have an influence on drug-sensitive ovarian cancer cells to become more resistant. We examined the influence of CAFs on genes and proteins expression changes in sensitive ovarian cancer cells. We prepared a 3D co-culture to investigate the role of CAFs on cancer cell morphology. METHODS Here, we performed a detailed analysis of drug-sensitive ovarian cancer cell lines (A2780 and W1) and the influence of ovarian CAFs on the A2780 and W1 cells morphology, genes and proteins expression. The 2D and 3D cultures, genes expression analysis (TaqMan qPCR), and proteins expression (Western blot analysis) were assessed in this study. RESULTS We observed upregulation of ABCC5, CYP2C8, CYP2C9, and DHFR mRNA in cell lines supplemented by CAFs medium. We showed fibronectin overexpression and COL3A1 downregulation after supplementation with CAFs. Co-culturing with CAFs prevented the formation of spheroids in 3D conditions. CONCLUSION We demonstrated that the process of drug resistance in ovarian cancer cells is launched by CAFs. CAFs not only simulate cancer cells to produce drug transporters and specific enzymes production, but also remodel the TME to increase drug resistance. We believe that cancer progression and migration is due to the CAFs po-tumorigenic activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Wojtowicz
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland.
| | - Michał Nowicki
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Wright K, Ly T, Kriet M, Czirok A, Thomas SM. Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts: Master Tumor Microenvironment Modifiers. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15061899. [PMID: 36980785 PMCID: PMC10047485 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15061899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer cells rely on the tumor microenvironment (TME), a composite of non-malignant cells, and extracellular matrix (ECM), for survival, growth, and metastasis. The ECM contributes to the biomechanical properties of the surrounding tissue, in addition to providing signals for tissue development. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are stromal cells in the TME that are integral to cancer progression. Subtypes of CAFs across a variety of cancers have been revealed, and each play a different role in cancer progression or suppression. CAFs secrete signaling molecules and remodel the surrounding ECM by depositing its constituents as well as degrading enzymes. In cancer, a remodeled ECM can lead to tumor-promoting effects. Not only does the remodeled ECM promote growth and allow for easier metastasis, but it can also modulate the immune system. A better understanding of how CAFs remodel the ECM will likely yield novel therapeutic targets. In this review, we summarize the key factors secreted by CAFs that facilitate tumor progression, ECM remodeling, and immune suppression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kellen Wright
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Thuc Ly
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Matthew Kriet
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Andras Czirok
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Sufi Mary Thomas
- Department of Otolaryngology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Yuan Q, Chu Y, Li X, Shi Y, Chen Y, Zhao J, Lu J, Liu K, Guo Y. CAFrgDB: a database for cancer-associated fibroblasts related genes and their functions in cancer. Cancer Gene Ther 2023:10.1038/s41417-023-00603-4. [PMID: 36922546 DOI: 10.1038/s41417-023-00603-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023]
Abstract
As one of the most essential components of the tumor microenvironment (TME), cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) interact extensively with cancer cells and other stromal cells to remodel TME and participate in the pathogenesis of cancer, which earmarked themselves as new promising targets for cancer therapy. Numerous studies have highlighted the heterogeneity and versatility of CAFs in most cancer types. Thus, the identification and appropriate use of CAF-related genes (CAFGenes) in the context of specific cancer types will provide critical insights into disease mechanisms and CAF-related therapeutic targets. In this study, we collected and curated 5421 CAFGenes identified from small- or large-scale experiments, encompassing 4982 responsors that directly or indirectly participate in cancer malignant behaviors managed by CAFs, 1069 secretions that are secreted by CAFs and 281 regulators that contribute in modulating CAFs in human and mouse, which covered 24 cancer types. For these human CAFGenes, we performed gene expression and prognostic marker-based analyses across 24 cancer types using TCGA data. Furthermore, we provided annotations for CAF-associated proteins by integrating the knowledge of protein-protein interaction(s), drug-target relations and basic annotations, from 9 public databases. CAFrgDB (CAF related Gene DataBase) is free for academic research at http://caf.zbiolab.cn and we anticipate CAFrgDB can be a useful resource for further study of CAFs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Yuan
- Department of Pathophysiology, State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Yi Chu
- Department of Pathophysiology, State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Xiaoyu Li
- Department of Pathophysiology, State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Yunshu Shi
- Department of Pathophysiology, State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Yingying Chen
- Department of Pathophysiology, State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Jimin Zhao
- Department of Pathophysiology, State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Jing Lu
- Department of Pathophysiology, State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China
| | - Kangdong Liu
- Department of Pathophysiology, State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China. .,China-US (Henan) Hormel Cancer Institute, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450001, China.
| | - Yaping Guo
- Department of Pathophysiology, State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001, China.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Villegas-Pineda JC, Ramírez-de-Arellano A, Bueno-Urquiza LJ, Lizarazo-Taborda MDR, Pereira-Suárez AL. Cancer-associated fibroblasts in gynecological malignancies: are they really allies of the enemy? Front Oncol 2023; 13:1106757. [PMID: 37168385 PMCID: PMC10164963 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1106757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Molecular and cellular components of the tumor microenvironment are essential for cancer progression. The cellular element comprises cancer cells and heterogeneous populations of non-cancer cells that satisfy tumor needs. Immune, vascular, and mesenchymal cells provide the necessary factors to feed the tumor mass, promote its development, and favor the spread of cancer cells from the primary site to adjacent and distant anatomical sites. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are mesenchymal cells that promote carcinogenesis and progression of various malignant neoplasms. CAFs act through the secretion of metalloproteinases, growth factors, cytokines, mitochondrial DNA, and non-coding RNAs, among other molecules. Over the last few years, the evidence on the leading role of CAFs in gynecological cancers has notably increased, placing them as the cornerstone of neoplastic processes. In this review, the recently reported findings regarding the promoting role that CAFs play in gynecological cancers, their potential use as therapeutic targets, and the new evidence suggesting that they could act as tumor suppressors are analyzed and discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julio César Villegas-Pineda
- Departamento de Microbiología y Patología, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Mexico
| | - Adrián Ramírez-de-Arellano
- Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias Biomédicas, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Mexico
| | - Lesly Jazmín Bueno-Urquiza
- Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias Biomédicas, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Mexico
- Departamento de Fisiología, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Mexico
| | | | - Ana Laura Pereira-Suárez
- Departamento de Microbiología y Patología, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Mexico
- Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias Biomédicas, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Mexico
- *Correspondence: Ana Laura Pereira-Suárez,
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Xu T, Liu Z, Huang L, Jing J, Liu X. Modulating the tumor immune microenvironment with nanoparticles: A sword for improving the efficiency of ovarian cancer immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1057850. [PMID: 36532066 PMCID: PMC9751906 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1057850] [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: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
With encouraging antitumor effects, immunotherapy represented by immune checkpoint blockade has developed into a mainstream cancer therapeutic modality. However, only a minority of ovarian cancer (OC) patients could benefit from immunotherapy. The main reason is that most OC harbor a suppressive tumor immune microenvironment (TIME). Emerging studies suggest that M2 tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), T regulatory cells (Tregs), myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are enriched in OC. Thus, reversing the suppressive TIME is considered an ideal candidate for improving the efficiency of immunotherapy. Nanoparticles encapsulating immunoregulatory agents can regulate immunocytes and improve the TIME to boost the antitumor immune response. In addition, some nanoparticle-mediated photodynamic and photothermal therapy can directly kill tumor cells and induce tumor immunogenic cell death to activate antigen-presenting cells and promote T cell infiltration. These advantages make nanoparticles promising candidates for modulating the TIME and improving OC immunotherapy. In this review, we analyzed the composition and function of the TIME in OC and summarized the current clinical progress of OC immunotherapy. Then, we expounded on the promising advances in nanomaterial-mediated immunotherapy for modulating the TIME in OC. Finally, we discussed the obstacles and challenges in the clinical translation of this novel combination treatment regimen. We believe this resourceful strategy will open the door to effective immunotherapy of OC and benefit numerous patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Jing Jing
- *Correspondence: Xiaowei Liu, ; Jing Jing,
| | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Wang Y, Zhang L, Bai Y, Wang L, Ma X. Therapeutic implications of the tumor microenvironment in ovarian cancer patients receiving PD-1/PD-L1 therapy. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1036298. [PMID: 36341388 PMCID: PMC9630909 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1036298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) ranks as the second most common cause of gynecologic cancer death. The conventional treatment for patients with EOC is postoperative therapy along with platinum chemotherapy. However, a more efficient treatment regimen is of great need for these patients diagnosed with advanced disease (FIGO stages III-IV), whose survival is approximately 29%. Immunotherapy seems to be an encouraging therapeutic strategy for EOC. Given the crucial role in the complicated interactions between tumor cells and other cells, the tumor microenvironment (TME) influences the response to immunotherapy. In this review, we discuss feasible strategies for EOC immunotherapy by exploiting the reciprocity of cancer cells and the constituents of the TME.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yusha Wang
- Division of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Lung Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chengdu First People’s Hospital and Chengdu Integrated Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Western Medicine Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Yun Bai
- West China School of Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Li Wang
- Lung Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xuelei Ma
- Division of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Zheng A, Wei Y, Zhao Y, Zhang T, Ma X. The role of cancer-associated mesothelial cells in the progression and therapy of ovarian cancer. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1013506. [PMID: 36268019 PMCID: PMC9577001 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1013506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is currently one of the most common malignant tumors in females with poor survival rates around the world, killing about 200,000 women each year. Although great progress has been made in treatment, most patients receiving first-line therapy experience tumor recurrence. The tumor microenvironment plays an important role in regulating the progression and prognosis of ovarian cancer. Cancer-associated mesothelial cells are the main cell population in the tumor microenvironment, which affect the progression, prognosis and chemical resistance of ovarian cancer. Cancer-associated mesothelial cells can also interact with other microenvironmental components, such as exosomes, macrophages, and adipocytes. Some studies have developed drugs targeting cancer-associated mesothelial cells in ovarian cancer to evaluate the therapeutic efficiency. In this review we highlighted the key role of cancer-associated mesothelial cells in the progression and prognosis of ovarian cancer. We also described the progress of cancer-associated mesothelial cells targeted therapy for ovarian cancer. Continued insight into the role of cancer-associated mesothelial cells in ovarian cancer will potentially contribute to the development of new and effective therapeutic regiments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aiping Zheng
- Division of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Cancer Center, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Head & Neck Oncology Ward, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Cancer Center, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuhao Wei
- West China School of Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yunuo Zhao
- Division of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Cancer Center, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Tao Zhang
- Division of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Cancer Center, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xuelei Ma
- Division of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Cancer Center, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Xuelei Ma,
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Lv C, Ren C, Yu Y, Yin H, Huang C, Yang G, Hong Y. Wentilactone A Reverses the NF-κB/ECM1 Signaling-Induced Cisplatin Resistance through Inhibition of IKK/IκB in Ovarian Cancer Cells. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14183790. [PMID: 36145166 PMCID: PMC9504226 DOI: 10.3390/nu14183790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Wentilactone A (WA) is a tetranorditerpenoid isolated from marine algae. We previously found that WA inhibited cancer cell proliferation with little toxicity. In this study, we show that high expression of extracellular matrix protein-1 (ECM1) promotes cancer cell cisplatin resistance, and the secreted ECM1 activates normal fibroblasts (NFs) to transform cells with characteristics of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). Transcription of the ECM1 gene is regulated largely by NF-κB through EP881C/T-EP266C binding sites. WA supresses the phosphorylation of NF-κB through inhibition of the upstream IKK/IκB phoshorylation to block the expression of ECM1, which reverses the cisplatin-induced activation of NF-κB/ECM1. On the contrary, cisplatin facilitates phosphorylation of NF-κB to enhance the expression of ECM1. These results highlight ECM1 as a potential target for treatment of cisplatin-resistant cancers associated with the ECM1 activated signaling. In addition, WA reverses cisplatin resistance by targeting both tumor cells and the tumor microenvironment through IKK/IκB/NF-κB signaling to reduce the expression of the ECM1 protein.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cuiting Lv
- Central Laboratory, The Fifth People’s Hospital of Shanghai, Fudan University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Chunxia Ren
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Yinjue Yu
- Department of Radiotherapy, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Huijing Yin
- Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Caiguo Huang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Basic Medical, Navy Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China
- Correspondence: (C.H.); (G.Y.); (Y.H.)
| | - Gong Yang
- Central Laboratory, The Fifth People’s Hospital of Shanghai, Fudan University, Shanghai 200240, China
- Cancer Institute, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Correspondence: (C.H.); (G.Y.); (Y.H.)
| | - Yang Hong
- Central Laboratory, The Fifth People’s Hospital of Shanghai, Fudan University, Shanghai 200240, China
- Department of Orthopedics, The Fifth People’s Hospital of Shanghai, Fudan University, Shanghai 200240, China
- Correspondence: (C.H.); (G.Y.); (Y.H.)
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Ding H, Zhang J, Zhang F, Xu Y, Yu Y, Liang W, Li Q. Role of Cancer-Associated fibroblast in the pathogenesis of ovarian Cancer: Focus on the latest therapeutic approaches. Int Immunopharmacol 2022; 110:109052. [DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.109052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
|
17
|
Zhao J, Chen Y. Systematic identification of cancer-associated-fibroblast-derived genes in patients with colorectal cancer based on single-cell sequencing and transcriptomics. Front Immunol 2022; 13:988246. [PMID: 36105798 PMCID: PMC9465173 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.988246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) has a high incidence rate and poor prognosis, and the available treatment approaches have limited therapeutic benefits. Therefore, understanding the underlying mechanisms of occurrence and development is particularly crucial. Increasing attention has been paid to the pathophysiological role of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in the heterogeneous tumour microenvironment. CAFs play a crucial role in tumorigenesis, tumour progression and treatment response. However, routine tissue sequencing cannot adequately reflect the heterogeneity of tumours. In this study, single-cell sequencing was used to examine the fibroblast population in CRC. After cluster analysis, the fibroblast population was divided into four subgroups. The distribution and role of these four subgroups in CRC were found to be different. Based on differential gene expression and lasso regression analysis of the main marker genes in these subgroups, four representative genes were obtained, namely, TCF7L1, FLNA, GPX3 and MMP11. Patients with CRC were divided into the low- and high-risk groups using the prognostic risk model established based on the expression of these four genes. The prognosis of patients in different risk groups varied significantly; patients with low-risk scores had a greater response to PDL1 inhibitors, significant clinical benefits and significantly prolonged overall survival. These effects may be attributed to inhibition of the function of T cells in the immune microenvironment and promotion of the function of tumour-associated macrophages.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jia Zhao
- Department of Medical Oncology, the First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of Anticancer Drugs and Biotherapy of Liaoning Province, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Liaoning Province Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Tumors, Ministry of Education, Shenyang, China
| | - Ying Chen
- Department of Medical Oncology, the First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of Anticancer Drugs and Biotherapy of Liaoning Province, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Liaoning Province Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Tumors, Ministry of Education, Shenyang, China
- *Correspondence: Ying Chen,
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Jin Y, Bian S, Wang H, Mo J, Fei H, Li L, Chen T, Jiang H. CRMP2 derived from cancer associated fibroblasts facilitates progression of ovarian cancer via HIF-1α-glycolysis signaling pathway. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:675. [PMID: 35927239 PMCID: PMC9352901 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-05129-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
As the predominant stroma cells of tumor microenvironment (TME), cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are robust tumor player of different malignancies. However, less is known about the regulatory mechanism of CAFs on promoting progression of ovarian cancer (OvCA). In the present study, the conditioned medium of primary CAFs (CAF-CM) from OvCA was used to culture cell lines of epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC), and showed a potent role in promoting proliferation, migration and invasion of cancer cells. Mass spectrum (MS) analysis identified that Collapsin response mediator protein-2 (CRMP2), a microtubule-associated protein involved in diverse malignancies, derived from CAFs was a key regulator responsible for mediating these cell events of OvCA. In vitro study using recombinant CRMP2 (r-CRMP2) revealed that the protein promoted proliferation, invasion, and migration of OvCA cells through activation of hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α-glycolysis signaling pathway. The CRMP2 was abundantly expressed in OvCA, with a well correlation with metastasis and poor prognosis, as analyzed from 118 patients' samples. Inhibition of the CRMP2 derived from CAFs by neutralizing antibodies significantly attenuated the tumor size, weights, and metastatic foci numbers of mice in vivo. Our finding has provided a novel therapeutic clue for OvCA based on TME.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yunfeng Jin
- grid.412312.70000 0004 1755 1415Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011 China ,grid.440642.00000 0004 0644 5481Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001 China
| | - Saiyan Bian
- grid.440642.00000 0004 0644 5481Research Center of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001 China
| | - Hui Wang
- grid.412312.70000 0004 1755 1415Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011 China
| | - Jiahang Mo
- grid.412312.70000 0004 1755 1415Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011 China
| | - He Fei
- grid.412312.70000 0004 1755 1415Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011 China
| | - Li Li
- grid.440642.00000 0004 0644 5481Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001 China
| | - Tong Chen
- grid.8547.e0000 0001 0125 2443Department of Hematology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040 China
| | - Hua Jiang
- grid.412312.70000 0004 1755 1415Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011 China
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Shi Y, Wu Y, Li F, Zhang Y, Hua C, Yang J, Zheng J, Chen L, Wei Z, Yue H, Sun C, Zhou X, Liu S. Identifying the anti-metastasis effect of Anhydroicaritin on breast cancer: Coupling network pharmacology with experimental validation. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 293:115326. [PMID: 35489659 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2022.115326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Epimedium brevicornu Maxim. and Cullen corylifolium (L.) Medik. are part of a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) drug pair (ECDP) widely used in the clinical treatment of breast cancer (BC). Both drugs have been proven to have anti-tumor effect. However, the active ingredients and molecular mechanism of ECDP remain to be explored. AIM OF THE STUDY To explore the efficacy and potential mechanisms of actions of herb pair through network pharmacology and in vitro and in vivo experiments. MATERIALS AND METHODS The active ingredients of ECDP were identified using high-performance liquid chromatography. The corresponding potential target genes for ECDP components and BC were extracted from established databases, and the protein-protein interaction network of shared genes was constructed using STRING database. The effective ingredients and targets of ECDP for BC were obtained through the TCMSP database and GeneCards database. The potential targets and pathways were selected through the protein interaction network and enrichment analysis. Proliferation and migration experiments in vitro and tumor growth in vivo were performed to evaluate the effects of Anhydroicaritin (AHI) on BC. RESULTS AHI is the potential candidate active ingredient of ECDP through TCMSP. Molecular docking revealed that AHI has excellent binding ability with TP53, VEGFA, MMP2, and Met. In vitro experiment results showed that AHI inhibits the growth of MDA-MB-231, 4T1, MCF-7, and SK-BR-3 BC cells. The inhibitory effect of AHI on triple-negative BC cells is more obvious. With the increase of AHI concentration, the colony-forming, migration, and metastasis abilities of the MDA-MB-231 and 4T1 cells gradually decreases. In addition, Western blot and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction analyses results indicated that AHI downregulates HIF-1α/VEGFA signaling in triple-negative BC cells. AHI inhibits tumor growth and lung metastasis while downregulating the expression of HIF-1α and VEGFA. CONCLUSION AHI may play an anti-BC effect by inhibiting cancer cell proliferation, invasion, and metastasis. The results of this study may provide a theoretical basis for AHI research and the clinical application of ECDP in BC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Youyang Shi
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuanyuan Wu
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Feifei Li
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yang Zhang
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ciyi Hua
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianfeng Yang
- Department of Surgery, Pudong Branch of Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jinzhou Zheng
- Department of Surgery, Pudong Branch of Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lili Chen
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zheng Wei
- Department of Oncology, Henan Academy of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Haiyan Yue
- Department of Gastroenterology, Naval Medical Center of PLA, Naval Military Medical University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Chenping Sun
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Xiqiu Zhou
- Department of Surgery, Pudong Branch of Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Sheng Liu
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Yang C, Mai Z, Liu C, Yin S, Cai Y, Xia C. Natural Products in Preventing Tumor Drug Resistance and Related Signaling Pathways. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27113513. [PMID: 35684449 PMCID: PMC9181879 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27113513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Drug resistance is still an obstacle in cancer therapy, leading to the failure of tumor treatment. The emergence of tumor drug resistance has always been a main concern of oncologists. Therefore, overcoming tumor drug resistance and looking for new strategies for tumor treatment is a major focus in the field of tumor research. Natural products serve as effective substances against drug resistance because of their diverse chemical structures and pharmacological effects. We reviewed the signaling pathways involved in the development of tumor drug resistance, including Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), Renin-angiotensin system (Ras), Phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt), Wnt, Notch, Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), and their specific signaling pathway inhibitors derived from natural products. This can provide new ideas for the prevention of drug resistance in cancer therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chuansheng Yang
- Department of Head-Neck and Breast Surgery, Yuebei People’s Hospital of Shantou University, Shaoguan 512027, China;
| | - Zhikai Mai
- Affiliated Foshan Maternity and Chlid Healthcare Hospital, Southern Medical University, Foshan 528000, China; (Z.M.); (C.L.); (S.Y.)
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Can Liu
- Affiliated Foshan Maternity and Chlid Healthcare Hospital, Southern Medical University, Foshan 528000, China; (Z.M.); (C.L.); (S.Y.)
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Shuanghong Yin
- Affiliated Foshan Maternity and Chlid Healthcare Hospital, Southern Medical University, Foshan 528000, China; (Z.M.); (C.L.); (S.Y.)
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Yantao Cai
- Affiliated Foshan Maternity and Chlid Healthcare Hospital, Southern Medical University, Foshan 528000, China; (Z.M.); (C.L.); (S.Y.)
- Correspondence: (Y.C.); (C.X.)
| | - Chenglai Xia
- Affiliated Foshan Maternity and Chlid Healthcare Hospital, Southern Medical University, Foshan 528000, China; (Z.M.); (C.L.); (S.Y.)
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
- Correspondence: (Y.C.); (C.X.)
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Zhang M, Chen Z, Wang Y, Zhao H, Du Y. The Role of Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts in Ovarian Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14112637. [PMID: 35681617 PMCID: PMC9179444 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14112637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Ovarian cancer is a lethal gynecologic tumor and is generally resistant to conventional treatments. Stable cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are important cellular components in the ovarian cancer tumor microenvironment and may provide novel resources for future treatment strategies. Different subtypes of CAFs display specific functions in tumor pathogenesis and various CAF markers suggest potential treatment targets. Several clinical or preclinical trials have targeted stromal fibroblasts and focused on the properties of CAFs to enhance ovarian cancer treatment efficacy. This review concentrates on the origins, subtypes, and activation of CAFs, as well as specific roles of CAFs in regulating tumor development and drug resistance, and aims to provide potential and prospective targets for improving the therapeutic efficacy of ovarian cancer treatment. Abstract Ovarian cancer is a lethal gynecologic tumor and is generally resistant to conventional treatments. Stable cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are important cellular components in the ovarian cancer tumor microenvironment and may provide novel resources for future treatment strategies. Different subtypes of CAFs display specific functions in tumor pathogenesis and various CAF markers suggest potential treatment targets, such as FAP and GPR77. Both autocrine and paracrine cytokines play important roles in the CAF activation process and regulate tumor progression. Downstream mediators and pathways, including IL-6, TGF-β, NF-κB, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), and AKT/mTOR/(p70S6K), play important roles in the initiation, proliferation, invasiveness, and metastasis of ovarian cancer cells and also participate in angiogenesis, therapeutic resistance, and other biological processes. Several clinical or preclinical trials have targeted stromal fibroblasts and focused on the properties of CAFs to enhance ovarian cancer treatment outcomes. This review concentrates on the origins, subtypes, and activation of CAFs, as well as specific roles of CAFs in regulating tumor development and drug resistance, and aims to provide potential and prospective targets for improving the therapeutic efficacy of ovarian cancer treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mo Zhang
- Clinical Research Unit, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China; (M.Z.); (Z.C.); (Y.W.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Zhixian Chen
- Clinical Research Unit, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China; (M.Z.); (Z.C.); (Y.W.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Clinical Research Unit, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China; (M.Z.); (Z.C.); (Y.W.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Hongbo Zhao
- Clinical Research Unit, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China; (M.Z.); (Z.C.); (Y.W.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai 200011, China
- Correspondence: (H.Z.); (Y.D.)
| | - Yan Du
- Clinical Research Unit, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China; (M.Z.); (Z.C.); (Y.W.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai 200011, China
- Correspondence: (H.Z.); (Y.D.)
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Therapeutic Strategies for Ovarian Cancer in Point of HGF/c-MET Targeting. Medicina (B Aires) 2022; 58:medicina58050649. [PMID: 35630066 PMCID: PMC9147666 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58050649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is the fifth leading cause of cancer deaths in women and is regarded as one of the most difficult cancers to treat. Currently, studies are being conducted to develop therapeutic agents for effective treatment of ovarian cancer. In this review, we explain the properties of the hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)/mesenchymal-epithelial transition factor (c-MET) and how the signaling pathway of HGF/c-MET is activated in different cancers and involved in tumorigenesis and metastasis of ovarian cancer. We present the findings of clinical studies using small chemicals or antibodies targeting HGF/c-MET signaling in various cancer types, particularly in ovarian cancer. We also discuss that HGF/c-MET-targeted therapy, when combined with chemo drugs, could be an effective strategy for ovarian cancer therapeutics.
Collapse
|
23
|
Hu D, Li Z, Zheng B, Lin X, Pan Y, Gong P, Zhuo W, Hu Y, Chen C, Chen L, Zhou J, Wang L. Cancer-associated fibroblasts in breast cancer: Challenges and opportunities. Cancer Commun (Lond) 2022; 42:401-434. [PMID: 35481621 PMCID: PMC9118050 DOI: 10.1002/cac2.12291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 02/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment is proposed to contribute substantially to the progression of cancers, including breast cancer. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are the most abundant components of the tumor microenvironment. Studies have revealed that CAFs in breast cancer originate from several types of cells and promote breast cancer malignancy by secreting factors, generating exosomes, releasing nutrients, reshaping the extracellular matrix, and suppressing the function of immune cells. CAFs are also becoming therapeutic targets for breast cancer due to their specific distribution in tumors and their unique biomarkers. Agents interrupting the effect of CAFs on surrounding cells have been developed and applied in clinical trials. Here, we reviewed studies examining the heterogeneity of CAFs in breast cancer and expression patterns of CAF markers in different subtypes of breast cancer. We hope that summarizing CAF-related studies from a historical perspective will help to accelerate the development of CAF-targeted therapeutic strategies for breast cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dengdi Hu
- Affiliated Cixi Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315300, P. R. China
| | - Zhaoqing Li
- Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education), Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310016, P. R. China.,Biomedical Research Center and Key Laboratory of Biotherapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310016, P. R. China
| | - Bin Zheng
- Affiliated Cixi Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315300, P. R. China
| | - Xixi Lin
- Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education), Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310016, P. R. China.,Biomedical Research Center and Key Laboratory of Biotherapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310016, P. R. China
| | - Yuehong Pan
- Affiliated Cixi Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315300, P. R. China
| | - Peirong Gong
- Affiliated Cixi Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315300, P. R. China
| | - Wenying Zhuo
- Affiliated Cixi Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315300, P. R. China.,Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education), Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310016, P. R. China.,Biomedical Research Center and Key Laboratory of Biotherapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310016, P. R. China
| | - Yujie Hu
- Affiliated Cixi Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315300, P. R. China
| | - Cong Chen
- Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education), Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310016, P. R. China.,Biomedical Research Center and Key Laboratory of Biotherapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310016, P. R. China
| | - Lini Chen
- Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education), Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310016, P. R. China.,Biomedical Research Center and Key Laboratory of Biotherapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310016, P. R. China
| | - Jichun Zhou
- Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education), Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310016, P. R. China.,Biomedical Research Center and Key Laboratory of Biotherapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310016, P. R. China
| | - Linbo Wang
- Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine (Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education), Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310016, P. R. China.,Biomedical Research Center and Key Laboratory of Biotherapy of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310016, P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Nagel A, Popeda M, Muchlinska A, Sadej R, Szade J, Zielinski J, Skokowski J, Niemira M, Kretowski A, Markiewicz A, Zaczek AJ. ERα36-High Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts as an Unfavorable Factor in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14082005. [PMID: 35454913 PMCID: PMC9024776 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14082005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are the most abundant cell type in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Estrogen receptor alpha 36 (ERα36), the alternatively spliced variant of ERα, is described as an unfavorable factor when expressed in cancer cells. ERα can be expressed also in CAFs; however, the role of ERα36 in CAFs is unknown. Methods: Four CAF cultures were isolated from chemotherapy-naïve BC patients and characterized for ERα36 expression and the NanoString gene expression panel using isolated RNA. Conditioned media from CAF cultures were used to assess the influence of CAFs on triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells using a matrigel 3D culture assay. Results: We found that ERα36high CAFs significantly induced the branching of TNBC cells in vitro (p < 0.001). They also produced a set of pro-tumorigenic cytokines compared to ERα36low CAFs, among which hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) was the main inducer of TNBC cell invasive phenotype in vitro (p < 0.001). Tumor stroma rich in ERα36high CAFs was correlated with high Ki67 expression (p = 0.041) and tumor-associated macrophages markers (CD68 and CD163, p = 0.041 for both). HGF was found to be an unfavorable prognostic factor in TCGA database analysis (p = 0.03 for DFS and p = 0.04 for OS). Conclusions: Breast cancer-associated fibroblasts represent distinct subtypes based on ERα36 expression. We propose that ERα36high CAFs could account for an unfavorable prognosis for TNBC patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Nagel
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology, Medical University of Gdansk, 80-211 Gdansk, Poland; (A.N.); (M.P.); (A.M.); (A.M.)
| | - Marta Popeda
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology, Medical University of Gdansk, 80-211 Gdansk, Poland; (A.N.); (M.P.); (A.M.); (A.M.)
| | - Anna Muchlinska
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology, Medical University of Gdansk, 80-211 Gdansk, Poland; (A.N.); (M.P.); (A.M.); (A.M.)
| | - Rafal Sadej
- Laboratory of Molecular Enzymology and Oncology, Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology, Medical University of Gdansk, 80-211 Gdansk, Poland;
| | - Jolanta Szade
- Department of Pathomorphology, Medical University of Gdansk, 80-211 Gdansk, Poland;
| | - Jacek Zielinski
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Medical University of Gdansk, 80-211 Gdansk, Poland; (J.Z.); (J.S.)
| | - Jaroslaw Skokowski
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Medical University of Gdansk, 80-211 Gdansk, Poland; (J.Z.); (J.S.)
- Department of Medical Laboratory Diagnostics-Biobank Fahrenheit BBMRI.pl, Medical University of Gdansk, Debinki Street 7, 80-211 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Magdalena Niemira
- Clinical Research Centre, Medical University of Bialystok, 15–276 Bialystok, Poland; (M.N.); (A.K.)
| | - Adam Kretowski
- Clinical Research Centre, Medical University of Bialystok, 15–276 Bialystok, Poland; (M.N.); (A.K.)
| | - Aleksandra Markiewicz
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology, Medical University of Gdansk, 80-211 Gdansk, Poland; (A.N.); (M.P.); (A.M.); (A.M.)
| | - Anna J. Zaczek
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology, Medical University of Gdansk, 80-211 Gdansk, Poland; (A.N.); (M.P.); (A.M.); (A.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48–58-349–14-38
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
To KKW, Cho WCS. Mesenchymal Epithelial Transition Factor (MET): A Key Player in Chemotherapy Resistance and an Emerging Target for Potentiating Cancer Immunotherapy. Curr Cancer Drug Targets 2022; 22:269-285. [PMID: 35255791 DOI: 10.2174/1568009622666220307105107] [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: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The MET protein is a cell surface receptor tyrosine kinase predominately expressed in epithelial cells. Upon binding of its only known ligand, hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), MET homodimerizes, phosphorylates, and stimulates intracellular signalling to drive cell proliferation. Amplification or hyperactivation of MET is frequently observed in various cancer types and it is associated with poor response to conventional and targeted chemotherapy. More recently, emerging evidence also suggests that MET/HGF signalling may play an immunosuppressive role and it could confer resistance to cancer immunotherapy. In this review, we summarized the preclinical and clinical evidence of MET's role in drug resistance to conventional chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Previous clinical trials investigating MET-targeted therapy in unselected or MET-overexpressing cancers yielded mostly unfavourable results. More recent clinical studies focusing on MET exon 14 alterations and MET amplification have produced encouraging treatment responses to MET inhibitor therapy. The translational relevance of MET inhibitor therapy to overcome drug resistance in cancer patients is discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth K W To
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - William C S Cho
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, China
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Wilczyński JR, Wilczyński M, Paradowska E. Cancer Stem Cells in Ovarian Cancer-A Source of Tumor Success and a Challenging Target for Novel Therapies. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23052496. [PMID: 35269636 PMCID: PMC8910575 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2022] [Revised: 02/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is the most lethal neoplasm of the female genital organs. Despite indisputable progress in the treatment of ovarian cancer, the problems of chemo-resistance and recurrent disease are the main obstacles for successful therapy. One of the main reasons for this is the presence of a specific cell population of cancer stem cells. The aim of this review is to show the most contemporary knowledge concerning the biology of ovarian cancer stem cells (OCSCs) and their impact on chemo-resistance and prognosis in ovarian cancer patients, as well as to present the treatment options targeted exclusively on the OCSCs. The review presents data concerning the role of cancer stem cells in general and then concentrates on OCSCs. The surface and intracellular OCSCs markers and their meaning both for cancer biology and clinical prognosis, signaling pathways specifically activated in OCSCs, the genetic and epigenetic regulation of OCSCs function including the recent studies on the non-coding RNA regulation, cooperation between OCSCs and the tumor microenvironment (ovarian cancer niche) including very specific environment such as ascites fluid, the role of shear stress, autophagy and metabolic changes for the function of OCSCs, and finally mechanisms of OCSCs escape from immune surveillance, are described and discussed extensively. The possibilities of anti-OCSCs therapy both in experimental settings and in clinical trials are presented, including the recent II phase clinical trials and immunotherapy. OCSCs are a unique population of cancer cells showing a great plasticity, self-renewal potential and resistance against anti-cancer treatment. They are responsible for the progression and recurrence of the tumor. Several completed and ongoing clinical trials have tested different anti-OCSCs drugs which, however, have shown unsatisfactory efficacy in most cases. We propose a novel approach to ovarian cancer diagnosis and therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jacek R Wilczyński
- Department of Gynecological Surgery and Gynecological Oncology, Medical University of Lodz, 4 Kosciuszki Str., 90-419 Lodz, Poland
- Correspondence:
| | - Miłosz Wilczyński
- Department of Gynecological, Endoscopic and Oncological Surgery, Polish Mother’s Health Center—Research Institute, 281/289 Rzgowska Str., 93-338 Lodz, Poland;
- Department of Surgical and Endoscopic Gynecology, Medical University of Lodz, 4 Kosciuszki Str., 90-419 Lodz, Poland
| | - Edyta Paradowska
- Laboratory of Virology, Institute of Medical Biology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, 106 Lodowa Str., 93-232 Lodz, Poland;
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Ritch SJ, Telleria CM. The Transcoelomic Ecosystem and Epithelial Ovarian Cancer Dissemination. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:886533. [PMID: 35574025 PMCID: PMC9096207 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.886533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is considered the deadliest gynecological disease and is normally diagnosed at late stages, at which point metastasis has already occurred. Throughout disease progression, EOC will encounter various ecosystems and the communication between cancer cells and these microenvironments will promote the survival and dissemination of EOC. The primary tumor is thought to develop within the ovaries or the fallopian tubes, both of which provide a microenvironment with high risk of causing DNA damage and enhanced proliferation. EOC disseminates by direct extension from the primary tumors, as single cells or multicellular aggregates. Under the influence of cellular and non-cellular factors, EOC spheroids use the natural flow of peritoneal fluid to reach distant organs within the peritoneal cavity. These cells can then implant and seed distant organs or tissues, which develop rapidly into secondary tumor nodules. The peritoneal tissue and the omentum are two common sites of EOC metastasis, providing a microenvironment that supports EOC invasion and survival. Current treatment for EOC involves debulking surgery followed by platinum-taxane combination chemotherapy; however, most patients will relapse with a chemoresistant disease with tumors developed within the peritoneum. Therefore, understanding the role of the unique microenvironments that promote EOC transcoelomic dissemination is important in improving patient outcomes from this disease. In this review article, we address the process of ovarian cancer cellular fate at the site of its origin in the secretory cells of the fallopian tube or in the ovarian surface epithelial cells, their detachment process, how the cells survive in the peritoneal fluid avoiding cell death triggers, and how cancer- associated cells help them in the process. Finally, we report the mechanisms used by the ovarian cancer cells to adhere and migrate through the mesothelial monolayer lining the peritoneum. We also discuss the involvement of the transcoelomic ecosystem on the development of chemoresistance of EOC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina J. Ritch
- Experimental Pathology Unit, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Carlos M. Telleria
- Experimental Pathology Unit, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Cancer Research Program, Research Institute, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
- *Correspondence: Carlos M. Telleria, ; orcid.org/0000-0003-1070-3538
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Gao Y, Sun Z, Gu J, Li Z, Xu X, Xue C, Li X, Zhao L, Zhou J, Bai C, Han Q, Zhao RC. Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts Promote the Upregulation of PD-L1 Expression Through Akt Phosphorylation in Colorectal Cancer. Front Oncol 2021; 11:748465. [PMID: 34868949 PMCID: PMC8640083 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.748465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Upregulation of immune checkpoint proteins is one of the main mechanisms for tumor immune escape. The expression of programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1) in colorectal cancer (CRC) is higher than in normal colorectal epithelial tissue, and patients with higher PD-L1 expression have a poorer prognosis. Additionally, PD-L1 expression in CRC is affected by the tumor microenvironment (TME). As a major component of the TME, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) can act as immune regulators and generate an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Therefore, we speculated that CAFs may be related to the upregulation of PD-L1 in CRC, which leads to tumor immune escape. We found that CAFs upregulate PD-L1 expression in CRC cells through AKT phosphorylation, thereby reducing the killing of CRC cells by peripheral blood mononuclear cells. The ratio of CAFs to CRC cells was positively correlated with AKT phosphorylation and the expression of PD-L1 in CRC in vitro. Consistent with the in vitro results, high CAF content and high expression of PD-L1 were negatively correlated with disease-free survival (DFS) of CRC patients. These results indicate that the upregulation of PD-L1 expression in CRC by CAFs through the activation of Akt is one of the molecular mechanisms of tumor immune escape. Thus, targeted anti-CAF therapy may help improve the efficacy of immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yang Gao
- Department of Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Zhao Sun
- Department of Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Junjie Gu
- Department of Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Zhe Li
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xiuxiu Xu
- Department of Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Chunling Xue
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xuechun Li
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Lin Zhao
- Department of Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jianfeng Zhou
- Department of Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Chunmei Bai
- Department of Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Qin Han
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Robert Chunhua Zhao
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Zhao D, Yang Z, Chen C, Zhang Z, Yu Y, Li Z. CXCR4 promotes gefitinib resistance of Huh7 cells by activating the c-Met signaling pathway. FEBS Open Bio 2021; 11:3115-3125. [PMID: 34555268 PMCID: PMC8564344 DOI: 10.1002/2211-5463.13305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
C‐X‐C chemokine receptor type 4 (CXCR4) expression is associated with poor prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The aim of this study was to explore the biological role of CXCR4 in gefitinib resistance of HCC. Compared with a normal, non‐gefitinib‐resistant, human HCC cell line (Huh7), CXCR4 mRNA and protein were highly expressed in gefitinib‐resistant Huh7 cells (Huh7‐R). Cell proliferation was decreased, and apoptosis was enhanced in Huh7 cells in the presence of gefitinib. These influences conferred by gefitinib treatment on proliferation and apoptosis of Huh7 cells were abolished by CXCR4 overexpression. CXCR4 knockdown reduced the proliferation ability of HuH‐7R cells after gefitinib treatment. Importantly, CXCR4 overexpression had no influence on caveolin 1 (Cav‐1) expression; similarly, Cav‐1 silencing did not cause a substantive change in CXCR4 expression. However, CXCR4 activated Cav‐1, c‐Met, and Raf‐1 in Huh7 cells, whereas Cav‐1 silencing repressed the expression of Raf‐1 and phosphorylated c‐Met in Huh7 cells. CXCR4 overexpression promoted proliferation and repressed apoptosis in gefitinib‐treated Huh7 cells, which was partly rescued by PHA‐665752 (a c‐Met inhibitor) treatment or c‐Met deficiency. Finally, we constructed a tumor xenograft model to determine the influence of CXCR4 overexpression on tumor growth of HCC. CXCR4 overexpression accelerated tumor growth of HCC, which was abrogated by c‐Met deficiency. These findings demonstrate that CXCR4 overexpression activates c‐Met via the Cav‐1 signaling pathway, thereby promoting gefitinib resistance of Huh7 cells. Thus, this study highlights novel insights into the mechanism of gefitinib resistance of HCC and CXCR4 may become a potential target for HCC treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dali Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, China
| | - Zhiqiang Yang
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, China
| | - Chen Chen
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, China
| | - Zhipeng Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, China
| | - Yangsheng Yu
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, China
| | - Zhituo Li
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, China
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Hydrogel-based colorectal cancer organoid co-culture models. Acta Biomater 2021; 132:461-472. [PMID: 33388439 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2020.12.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Revised: 11/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The lack of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in patient-derived organoid (PDO) models is a major limitation as CAFs contribute to tumor progression and drug resistance. In the present study, we addressed this problem by establishing in vitro conditions that enable the co-culture of colorectal cancer (CRC) PDO with patient-derived CAFs. Considering that the CRC extracellular matrix is high in hyaluronan and collagen I, we hypothesized that hyaluronan-gelatin hydrogels may serve as a suitable alternative 3D matrix to traditionally used basement membrane extracts to support the co-culture of CRC PDO and CAFs. We report the development of in vitro models consisting of CRC PDO encapsulated within a well-defined three-dimensional (3D) hyaluronan-gelatin hydrogel and co-cultured with patient-derived CAFs. Through RNA- and whole -exome sequencing, we first show that these hydrogels are capable of maintaining key molecular characteristics of the original patient tumors in CRC PDO but not support the culture of CAFs. Further, based on our findings that CRC PDO culture medium poorly supports CAF viability, we developed a co-culture strategy that maintains the viability of both CRC PDO and CAFs. We found that even in the absence of growth factors conventionally used to support CRC PDO culture, CAFs were able to maintain the proliferation of the cultured CRC PDO in the hydrogels and restore distinct biological pathways absent in the PDO culture alone but present in patient tissues. Lastly, we demonstrate that these CRC PDO-CAFs co-culture models are suitable for evaluating standard-of-care drugs, making them potentially very useful for realizing personalized cancer medicine. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: We report the development of an engineered tumor microenvironment consisting of colorectal cancer patient-derived organoids (CRC PDO) encapsulated within a well-defined three-dimensional (3D) hyaluronan-gelatin hydrogel and co-cultured with patient-derived cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). Through sequential culture, we found that in the absence of growth factors added to the co-culture, CAFs were able to maintain the proliferation of the cultured CRC PDO in the hydrogels and restore distinct biological pathways absent in the PDO culture alone but present in patient tissues. Lastly, we demonstrate that these CRC PDO-CAFs models are suitable for evaluating standard-of-care drugs, making them potentially very useful for realizing personalized cancer medicine.
Collapse
|
31
|
Apoptosis Deregulation and the Development of Cancer Multi-Drug Resistance. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13174363. [PMID: 34503172 PMCID: PMC8430856 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13174363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 08/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Despite recent therapeutic advances against cancer, many patients do not respond well or respond poorly, to treatment and develop resistance to more than one anti-cancer drug, a term called multi-drug resistance (MDR). One of the main factors that contribute to MDR is the deregulation of apoptosis or programmed cell death. Herein, we describe the major apoptotic pathways and discuss how pro-apoptotic and anti-apoptotic proteins are modified in cancer cells to convey drug resistance. We also focus on our current understanding related to the interactions between survival and cell death pathways, as well as on mechanisms underlying the balance shift towards cancer cell growth and drug resistance. Moreover, we highlight the role of the tumor microenvironment components in blocking apoptosis in MDR tumors, and we discuss the significance and potential exploitation of epigenetic modifications for cancer treatment. Finally, we summarize the current and future therapeutic approaches for overcoming MDR. Abstract The ability of tumor cells to evade apoptosis is established as one of the hallmarks of cancer. The deregulation of apoptotic pathways conveys a survival advantage enabling cancer cells to develop multi-drug resistance (MDR), a complex tumor phenotype referring to concurrent resistance toward agents with different function and/or structure. Proteins implicated in the intrinsic pathway of apoptosis, including the Bcl-2 superfamily and Inhibitors of Apoptosis (IAP) family members, as well as their regulator, tumor suppressor p53, have been implicated in the development of MDR in many cancer types. The PI3K/AKT pathway is pivotal in promoting survival and proliferation and is often overactive in MDR tumors. In addition, the tumor microenvironment, particularly factors secreted by cancer-associated fibroblasts, can inhibit apoptosis in cancer cells and reduce the effectiveness of different anti-cancer drugs. In this review, we describe the main alterations that occur in apoptosis-and related pathways to promote MDR. We also summarize the main therapeutic approaches against resistant tumors, including agents targeting Bcl-2 family members, small molecule inhibitors against IAPs or AKT and agents of natural origin that may be used as monotherapy or in combination with conventional therapeutics. Finally, we highlight the potential of therapeutic exploitation of epigenetic modifications to reverse the MDR phenotype.
Collapse
|
32
|
Liu QQ, Zeng XL, Guan YL, Lu JX, Tu K, Liu FY. Verticillin A inhibits colon cancer cell migration and invasion by targeting c-Met. J Zhejiang Univ Sci B 2021; 21:779-795. [PMID: 33043644 DOI: 10.1631/jzus.b2000190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Verticillin A is a diketopiperazine compound which was previously isolated from Amanita flavorubescens Alk (containing parasitic fungi Hypomyces hyalines (Schw.) Tul.). Here, we initially found, by wound healing assay and Transwell assay in vitro, that verticillin A possesses an inhibitory effect against the migration and invasion of the human colon cancer cell. Subsequently, c-mesenchymal-epithelial transition factor (c-Met) was identified as a molecular target of verticillin A by screening key genes related to cell migration. Verticillin A-mediated c-Met suppression is at the transcriptional level. Further study demonstrated that verticillin A suppressed c-MET phosphorylation and decreased c-MET protein level. In addition, verticillin A inhibited the phosphorylation of c-MET downstream molecules including rat sarcoma (Ras)-associated factor (Raf), extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), and protein kinase B (AKT). Overexpression of Erk partially reversed the verticillin A-mediated anti-metastasis action in the human colon cancer cell. More importantly, verticillin A also inhibited cancer cell metastasis in vivo. Thus, verticillin A can significantly inhibit the migration and invasion of colon cancer cells by targeting c-Met and inhibiting Ras/Raf/mitogen-activated extracellular signal-regulated kinase (MEK)/ERK signaling pathways. Therefore, we determined that verticillin A is a natural compound that can be further developed as an anti-metastatic drug in human cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qian-Qian Liu
- Deparement of Internal Medicine, Zhejiang University Hospital, Hangzhou 310027, China
| | - Xue-Li Zeng
- Research Centre of Siyuan Natural Pharmacy and Biotoxicology, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Yue-Lin Guan
- Research Centre of Siyuan Natural Pharmacy and Biotoxicology, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Jing-Xin Lu
- Research Centre of Siyuan Natural Pharmacy and Biotoxicology, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Kai Tu
- Research Centre of Siyuan Natural Pharmacy and Biotoxicology, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Fei-Yan Liu
- Research Centre of Siyuan Natural Pharmacy and Biotoxicology, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Ni Y, Zhou X, Yang J, Shi H, Li H, Zhao X, Ma X. The Role of Tumor-Stroma Interactions in Drug Resistance Within Tumor Microenvironment. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:637675. [PMID: 34095111 PMCID: PMC8173135 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.637675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer cells resistance to various therapies remains to be a key challenge nowadays. For a long time, scientists focused on tumor cells themselves for the mechanisms of acquired drug resistance. However, recent evidence showed that tumor microenvironment (TME) is essential for regulating immune escape, drug resistance, progression and metastasis of malignant cells. Reciprocal interactions between cancer cells and non-malignant cells within this milieu often reshape the TME and promote drug resistance. Therefore, advanced knowledge about these sophisticated interactions is significant for the design of effective therapeutic approaches. In this review, we highlight cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), tumor-associated neutrophils (TANs), myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), T-regulatory lymphocytes (Tregs), mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), cancer-associated adipocytes (CAAs), and tumor endothelial cells (TECs) existing in TME, as well as their multiple cross-talk with tumor cells, which eventually endows tumor cells with therapeutic resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanghong Ni
- Department of Biotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Development and Related Disease of Women and Children Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaoting Zhou
- Department of Biotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Development and Related Disease of Women and Children Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jia Yang
- Department of Biotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Development and Related Disease of Women and Children Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Houhui Shi
- Department of Biotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Development and Related Disease of Women and Children Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hongyi Li
- Department of Biotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Development and Related Disease of Women and Children Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xia Zhao
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Development and Related Disease of Women and Children Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xuelei Ma
- Department of Biotherapy, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Wang M, Chen W, Chen J, Yuan S, Hu J, Han B, Huang Y, Zhou W. Abnormal saccharides affecting cancer multi-drug resistance (MDR) and the reversal strategies. Eur J Med Chem 2021; 220:113487. [PMID: 33933752 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2021.113487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2021] [Revised: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Clinically, chemotherapy is the mainstay in the treatment of multiple cancers. However, highly adaptable and activated survival signaling pathways of cancer cells readily emerge after long exposure to chemotherapeutics drugs, resulting in multi-drug resistance (MDR) and treatment failure. Recently, growing evidences indicate that the molecular action mechanisms of cancer MDR are closely associated with abnormalities in saccharides. In this review, saccharides affecting cancer MDR development are elaborated and analyzed in terms of aberrant aerobic glycolysis and its related enzymes, abnormal glycan structures and their associated enzymes, and glycoproteins. The reversal strategies including depletion of ATP, circumventing the original MDR pathway, activation by or inhibition of sugar-related enzymes, combination therapy with traditional cytotoxic agents, and direct modification on the sugar moiety, are ultimately proposed. It follows that abnormal saccharides have a significant effect on cancer MDR development, providing a new perspective for overcoming MDR and improving the outcome of chemotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meizhu Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, E. 232, University Town, Waihuan Rd, Panyu, Guangzhou, 510006, China; Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, 200241, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenming Chen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Production Center, The First Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, 95, Shaoshan Rd, Changsha, Hunan, 41007, China
| | - Jiansheng Chen
- College of Horticulture, South China Agricultural University, 483, Wushan Rd, Guangzhou, Guangdong province, 510642, China
| | - Sisi Yuan
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, E. 232, University Town, Waihuan Rd, Panyu, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Jiliang Hu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, E. 232, University Town, Waihuan Rd, Panyu, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Bangxing Han
- Department of Biological and Pharmaceutical Engineering, West Anhui University, Lu'an, Anhui, China; Anhui Engineering Laboratory for Conservation and Sustainable Utilization of Traditional Chinese Medicine Resources, West Anhui University, Lu'an, Anhui, China
| | - Yahui Huang
- College of Horticulture, South China Agricultural University, 483, Wushan Rd, Guangzhou, Guangdong province, 510642, China.
| | - Wen Zhou
- Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, 200241, Shanghai, China.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
The circadian rhythm and core gene Period2 regulate the chemotherapy effect and multidrug resistance of ovarian cancer through the PI3K signaling pathway. Biosci Rep 2021; 40:226724. [PMID: 33083827 PMCID: PMC7607197 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20202683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Revised: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Ovarian cancer is the most lethal cancer in the female reproductive system. It has been shown that ‘time chemotherapy’ of ovarian cancer has an important impact on the chemotherapy effect and prognosis of patients, but the specific mechanism is not known. Methods: We designed a case–control study in strict accordance with epidemiological principles. We collected resection samples of ovarian cancer patients who worked night-shifts and those who did not, and analyzed the differences in protein expression. Through construction of a normal/circadian-rhythm disorder model of ovarian cancer in nude mice, we explored the molecular mechanism of a ‘biological clock’ rhythm on treatment of ovarian cancer. Results: Expression of interleukin (IL)-6, programmed cell death receptor-1 (PD-1) and programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) increased, and expression of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, Period 1 (Per1) and Period 2 (Per2) decreased in the night-shift group. Methylation of CpG islands in the promoter of Per2 could result in its decreased expression in SKOV3/DDP (Cisplatin) cells. Dysrhythmia of the circadian clock: (i) had a negative effect on the chemotherapy effect against ovarian cancer; (ii) affected expression of immune factors and the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt) signaling pathway. Conclusion: The Per2 gene can affect the drug resistance of ovarian cancer by inhibiting the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway and then acting on its downstream drug-resistance factors, thereby providing a new target for ovarian cancer treatment.
Collapse
|
36
|
Zhang J, Han L, Yu J, Li H, Li Q. miR-224 aggravates cancer-associated fibroblast-induced progression of non-small cell lung cancer by modulating a positive loop of the SIRT3/AMPK/mTOR/HIF-1α axis. Aging (Albany NY) 2021; 13:10431-10449. [PMID: 33819917 PMCID: PMC8064154 DOI: 10.18632/aging.202803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Cancer-associated fibroblast (CAF) is among the most important tumor-host microenvironment components by affecting tumor progression. This study explored the role of miR-224 in CAF-induced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). MATERIALS AND METHODS A CAF-NSCLC cell co-culture model was established, and the miR-224 expression in CAF was detected by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Gain- and loss- of experiments of miR-224 were implemented to verify the effects of CAF on NSCLC cell proliferation, invasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and endothelial cell (EC) angiogenesis. Overexpressing genetic or pharmacological interventions were performed to explore the potential mechanisms of Sirtuins 3/AMP-activated protein kinase/mammalian target of rapamycin/hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (SIRT3/AMPK/mTOR/HIF-1α). RESULTS CAF enhanced the malignant phenotype of NSCLC cells and induced EC angiogenesis. miR-224 was significantly altered in CAFs. miR-224 up-regulation exacerbated NSCLC development mediated by CAFs, while miR-224 inhibition mostly reversed CAF-induced effects. Mechanistically, miR-224 targeted the 3'-untranslated regions (UTR) of SIRT3 mRNA, thereby inhibiting SIRT3/AMPK and activating mTOR/HIF-1α. Forced overexpression of SIRT3 up-regulated AMPK and inactivated mTOR/HIF-1α, while inhibiting HIF-1α markedly up-regulated SIRT3/AMPK and reduced mTOR phosphorylation. Interestingly, both Sirt1 overexpression and HIF-1α inhibition repressed miR-224 levels and miR-224-mediated promotive effects in NSCLC. CONCLUSION The miR-224-SIRT3/AMPK/mTOR/HIF-1α axis formed a positive feedback loop in modulating CAF-induced carcinogenic effects on NSCLC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang 441021, Hubei, China
| | - Lan Han
- Department of Oncology, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang 441021, Hubei, China
| | - Jing Yu
- Department of Oncology, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang 441021, Hubei, China
| | - Hui Li
- Department of Oncology, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang 441021, Hubei, China
| | - Qingfeng Li
- Department of Oncology, Xiangyang Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang 441021, Hubei, China
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
An JH, Song WJ, Li Q, Bhang DH, Youn HY. 3D-culture models as drug-testing platforms in canine lymphoma and their cross talk with lymph node-derived stromal cells. J Vet Sci 2021; 22:e25. [PMID: 33908202 PMCID: PMC8170217 DOI: 10.4142/jvs.2021.22.e25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Revised: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Malignant lymphoma is the most common hematopoietic malignancy in dogs, and relapse is frequently seen despite aggressive initial treatment. In order for the treatment of these recurrent lymphomas in dogs to be effective, it is important to choose a personalized and sensitive anticancer agent. To provide a reliable tool for drug development and for personalized cancer therapy, it is critical to maintain key characteristics of the original tumor. OBJECTIVES In this study, we established a model of hybrid tumor/stromal spheroids and investigated the association between canine lymphoma cell line (GL-1) and canine lymph node (LN)-derived stromal cells (SCs). METHODS A hybrid spheroid model consisting of GL-1 cells and LN-derived SC was created using ultra low attachment plate. The relationship between SCs and tumor cells (TCs) was investigated using a coculture system. RESULTS TCs cocultured with SCs were found to have significantly upregulated multidrug resistance genes, such as P-qp, MRP1, and BCRP, compared with TC monocultures. Additionally, it was revealed that coculture with SCs reduced doxorubicin-induced apoptosis and G2/M cell cycle arrest of GL-1 cells. CONCLUSIONS SCs upregulated multidrug resistance genes in TCs and influenced apoptosis and the cell cycle of TCs in the presence of anticancer drugs. This study revealed that understanding the interaction between the tumor microenvironment and TCs is essential in designing experimental approaches to personalized medicine and to predict the effect of drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ju Hyun An
- Laboratory of Veterinary Internal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Woo Jin Song
- Laboratory of Veterinary Internal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jeju National University, Jeju 63243, Korea
| | - Qiang Li
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Agriculture, Yanbian University, Yanji 133000, China
| | - Dong Ha Bhang
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Samsung Biomedical Research Institute, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon 16419, Korea.
| | - Hwa Young Youn
- Laboratory of Veterinary Internal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Yao LC, Jiang XH, Yan SS, Wang W, Wu L, Zhai LL, Xiang F, Ji T, Ye L, Tang ZG. Four potential microRNAs affect the progression of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma by targeting MET via the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Oncol Lett 2021; 21:326. [PMID: 33692858 PMCID: PMC7933770 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2021.12588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the most common tumor subtype of pancreatic cancer, which exhibits poor patient prognosis due to the lack of effective biomarkers in the diagnosis and treatment. The present study aimed to identify the potential biomarkers of PDAC carcinogenesis and progression using three microarray datasets, GSE15471, GSE16515 and GSE28735, which were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. The datasets were analyzed to screen out differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in PDAC tissues and adjacent normal tissues. A total of 143 DEGs were identified, including 132 upregulated genes and 11 downregulated genes. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes functional and signaling pathway enrichment analyses were performed on the DEGs, and the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes/Proteins database was used to construct a protein-protein interaction network. The main functions of DEGs include extracellular matrix degradation, and regulation of matrix metalloproteinase activity and the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. The five hub genes were subsequently screened using Cytoscape software, and survival analysis demonstrated that abnormal expression levels of the hub genes was associated with poor disease-free survival and overall survival. Biological experiments were performed to confirm whether mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition (MET) factors promote the proliferation, migration and invasion of PDAC cells via the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. In addition, six MET-targeted microRNAs (miRNAs) were identified, four of which had conserved binding sites with MET. Based on the signaling pathway enrichment analysis of these miRNAs, it is suggested that they can affect the progression of PDAC by targeting MET via the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. In conclusion, the hub genes and miRNAs that were identified in the present study contribute to the molecular mechanisms of PDAC carcinogenesis and progression. They also provide candidate biomarkers for early diagnosis and treatment of patients with PDAC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Li-Chao Yao
- Department of General Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Xiu-Hua Jiang
- Department of Geriatrics, General Hospital of Central Theater Command, Wuhan, Hubei 430071, P.R. China
| | - Si-Si Yan
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University and Hubei Clinic Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Embryonic Development, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of General Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Lun Wu
- Department of General Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Lu-Lu Zhai
- Department of General Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Feng Xiang
- Department of General Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Tao Ji
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, General Hospital of Central Theater Command, Wuhan, Hubei 430071, P.R. China
| | - Lin Ye
- Department of General Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Zhi-Gang Tang
- Department of General Surgery, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Zhou S, Zhen Z, Paschall AV, Xue L, Yang X, Bebin-Blackwell AG, Cao Z, Zhang W, Wang M, Teng Y, Zhou G, Li Z, Avci FY, Tang W, Xie J. FAP-Targeted Photodynamic Therapy Mediated by Ferritin Nanoparticles Elicits an Immune Response against Cancer Cells and Cancer Associated Fibroblasts. ADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS 2021; 31:2007017. [PMID: 35822179 PMCID: PMC9273013 DOI: 10.1002/adfm.202007017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are present in many types of tumors and play a pivotal role in tumor progression and immunosuppression. Fibroblast-activation protein (FAP), which is overexpressed on CAFs, has been indicated as a universal tumor target. However, FAP expression is not restricted to tumors, and systemic treatment against FAP often causes severe side effects. To solve this problem, a photodynamic therapy (PDT) approach was developed based on ZnF16Pc (a photosensitizer)-loaded and FAP-specific single chain variable fragment (scFv)-conjugated apoferritin nanoparticles, or αFAP-Z@FRT. αFAP-Z@FRT PDT efficiently eradicates CAFs in tumors without inducing systemic toxicity. When tested in murine 4T1 models, the PDT treatment elicits anti-cancer immunity, causing suppression of both primary and distant tumors, i.e. abscopal effect. Treatment efficacy is enhanced when αFAP-Z@FRT PDT is used in combination with anti-PD1 antibodies. Interestingly, it is found that the PDT treatment not only elicits a cellular immunity against cancer cells, but also stimulates an anti-CAFs immunity. This is supported by an adoptive cell transfer study, where T cells taken from 4T1-tumor-bearing animals treated with αFAP PDT retard the growth of A549 tumors established on nude mice. Overall, our approach is unique for permitting site-specific eradication of CAFs and inducing a broad spectrum anti-cancer immunity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shiyi Zhou
- Department of Chemistry, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Zipeng Zhen
- Department of Chemistry, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Amy V Paschall
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for Molecular Medicine and Complex Carbohydrate Research Center, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Lijun Xue
- Department of Medical Oncology, Jinling Hospital, Nanjing University Clinical School of Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210002, China
| | - Xueyuan Yang
- Department of Chemistry, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | | | - Zhengwei Cao
- Department of Chemistry, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Weizhong Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Mengzhe Wang
- Department of Radiology, Biomedical Research Imaging Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Yong Teng
- Georgia Cancer Center, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Gang Zhou
- Georgia Cancer Center, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Zibo Li
- Department of Radiology, Biomedical Research Imaging Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Fikri Y Avci
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for Molecular Medicine and Complex Carbohydrate Research Center, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Wei Tang
- Department of Chemistry, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Jin Xie
- Department of Chemistry, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Moosavi F, Giovannetti E, Peters GJ, Firuzi O. Combination of HGF/MET-targeting agents and other therapeutic strategies in cancer. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2021; 160:103234. [PMID: 33497758 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2021.103234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2020] [Revised: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
MET receptor has emerged as a druggable target across several human cancers. Agents targeting MET and its ligand hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) including small molecules such as crizotinib, tivantinib and cabozantinib or antibodies including rilotumumab and onartuzumab have proven their values in different tumors. Recently, capmatinib was approved for treatment of metastatic lung cancer with MET exon 14 skipping. In this review, we critically examine the current evidence on how HGF/MET combination therapies may take advantage of synergistic effects, overcome primary or acquired drug resistance, target tumor microenvironment, modulate drug metabolism or tackle pharmacokinetic issues. Preclinical and clinical studies on the combination of HGF/MET-targeted agents with conventional chemotherapeutics or molecularly targeted treatments (including EGFR, VEGFR, HER2, RAF/MEK, and PI3K/Akt targeting agents) and also the value of biomarkers are examined. Our deeper understanding of molecular mechanisms underlying successful pharmacological combinations is crucial to find the best personalized treatment regimens for cancer patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Moosavi
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Elisa Giovannetti
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center (VUmc), Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Cancer Pharmacology Lab, AIRC Start Up Unit, Fondazione Pisana per la Scienza, Pisa, Italy
| | - Godefridus J Peters
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University Medical Center (VUmc), Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Biochemistry, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Omidreza Firuzi
- Medicinal and Natural Products Chemistry Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Abstract
Chemotherapy remains the mainstay of treatment in the majority of solid and haematological malignancies. Resistance to cytotoxic chemotherapy is a major clinical problem and substantial research is ongoing into potential methods of overcoming this resistance. One major target, the receptor tyrosine kinase MET, has generated increasing interest with multiple clinical trials in progress. Overexpression of MET is frequently observed in a range of different cancers and is associated with poor prognosis. Studies have shown that MET promotes resistance to targeted therapies, including those targeting EGFR, BRAF and MEK. More recently, several reports suggest that MET also contributes to cytotoxic chemotherapy resistance. Here we review the preclinical evidence of MET's role in chemotherapy resistance, the mechanisms by which this resistance is mediated and the translational relevance of MET inhibitor therapy for patients with chemotherapy resistant disease.
Collapse
|
42
|
Modeling the Early Steps of Ovarian Cancer Dissemination in an Organotypic Culture of the Human Peritoneal Cavity. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1330:75-94. [PMID: 34339031 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-73359-9_5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The majority of ovarian cancer patients present clinically with wide-spread metastases throughout the peritoneal cavity, metastasizing to the mesothelium-lined peritoneum and visceral adipose depots within the abdomen. This unique metastatic tumor microenvironment is comprised of multiple cell types, including mesothelial cells, fibroblasts, adipocytes, macrophages, neutrophils, and T lymphocytes. Modeling advancements, including complex 3D systems and organoids, coupled with 2D cocultures, in vivo mouse models, and ex vivo human tissue cultures have greatly enhanced our understanding of the tumor-stroma interactions that are required for successful metastasis of ovarian cancer cells. However, advanced multifaceted model systems that incorporate frequency and spatial distribution of all cell types present in the tumor microenvironment of ovarian cancer are needed to enhance our knowledge of ovarian cancer biology in order to identify methods for preventing and treating metastatic disease. This review highlights the utility of recently developed modeling approaches, summarizes some of the resulting progress using these techniques, and suggests how these strategies may be implemented to elucidate signaling processes among cell types of the tumor microenvironment that promote ovarian cancer metastasis.
Collapse
|
43
|
Ahn YH, Kim JS. Long Non-Coding RNAs as Regulators of Interactions between Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts and Cancer Cells in the Tumor Microenvironment. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E7484. [PMID: 33050576 PMCID: PMC7589653 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21207484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 10/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) regulate diverse physiological and pathological processes via post-transcriptional, post-translational, and epigenetic mechanisms. They are also involved in tumor initiation, progression, and metastasis by functioning as key players in the tumor microenvironment. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) promote tumor initiation, progression, metastasis, drug resistance, and immunosuppression, which can be modulated by lncRNAs. LncRNAs regulate the intrinsic properties of CAFs or cancer cells intracellularly or function extracellularly through exosomal secretion. In-depth studies on the mechanisms of lncRNA functions will enable their clinical use as diagnosis/prognosis markers and therapeutic targets in cancer treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Young-Ho Ahn
- Department of Molecular Medicine, College of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 07804, Korea;
- Inflammation-Cancer Microenvironment Research Center, College of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 07804, Korea
| | - Jeong Seon Kim
- Department of Molecular Medicine, College of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 07804, Korea;
- Inflammation-Cancer Microenvironment Research Center, College of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 07804, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
James NE, Woodman M, DiSilvestro PA, Ribeiro JR. The Perfect Combination: Enhancing Patient Response to PD-1-Based Therapies in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E2150. [PMID: 32756436 PMCID: PMC7466102 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12082150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Revised: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is the most lethal gynecologic malignancy, with an overall 5-year survival of only 47%. As the development of novel targeted therapies is drastically necessary in order to improve patient survival, current EOC clinical trials have heavily focused on immunotherapeutic approaches, centered upon programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) inhibitors. While PD-1 monotherapies have only exhibited modest responses for patients, it has been theorized that in order to enhance EOC patient response to immunotherapy, combinatorial regimens must be investigated. In this review, unique challenges to EOC PD-1 response will be discussed, along with a comprehensive description of both preclinical and clinical studies evaluating PD-1-based combinatorial therapies. Promising aspects of PD-1-based combinatorial approaches are highlighted, while also discussing specific preclinical and clinical areas of research that need to be addressed, in order to optimize EOC patient immunotherapy response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicole E. James
- Program in Women’s Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women and Infants Hospital, Providence, RI 02905, USA; (N.E.J.); (M.W.); (P.A.D.)
| | - Morgan Woodman
- Program in Women’s Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women and Infants Hospital, Providence, RI 02905, USA; (N.E.J.); (M.W.); (P.A.D.)
| | - Paul A. DiSilvestro
- Program in Women’s Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women and Infants Hospital, Providence, RI 02905, USA; (N.E.J.); (M.W.); (P.A.D.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Warren Alpert School of Medicine, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA
| | - Jennifer R. Ribeiro
- Program in Women’s Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women and Infants Hospital, Providence, RI 02905, USA; (N.E.J.); (M.W.); (P.A.D.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Warren Alpert School of Medicine, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Suh J, Kim DH, Lee YH, Jang JH, Surh YJ. Fibroblast growth factor-2, derived from cancer-associated fibroblasts, stimulates growth and progression of human breast cancer cells via FGFR1 signaling. Mol Carcinog 2020; 59:1028-1040. [PMID: 32557854 DOI: 10.1002/mc.23233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Revised: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) constitute a major compartment of the tumor microenvironment. In the present study, we investigated the role for CAFs in breast cancer progression and underlying molecular mechanisms. Human breast cancer MDA-MB-231 cells treated with the CAF-conditioned media manifested a more proliferative phenotype, as evidenced by enhanced messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of Cyclin D1, c-Myc, and proliferating cell nuclear antigen. Analysis of data from The Cancer Genome Atlas revealed that fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF2) expression was well correlated with the presence of CAFs. We noticed that the mRNA level of FGF2 in CAFs was higher than that in normal fibroblasts. FGF2 exerts its biological effects through interaction with FGF receptor 1 (FGFR1). In the breast cancer tissue array, 42% estrogen receptor-negative patients coexpressed FGF2 and FGFR1, whereas only 19% estrogen receptor-positive patients exhibited coexpression. CAF-stimulated MDA-MB-231 cell migration and invasiveness were abolished when FGF2-neutralizing antibody was added to the conditioned media of CAFs. In a xenograft mouse model, coinjection of MDA-MB-231 cells with activated fibroblasts expressing FGF2 dramatically enhanced tumor growth, and this was abrogated by silencing of FGFR1 in cancer cells. In addition, treatment of MDA-MB-231 cells with FGF2 enhanced expression of Cyclin D1, a key molecule involved in cell cycle progression. FGF2-induced cell migration and upregulation of Cyclin D1 were abolished by siRNA-mediated FGFR1 silencing. Taken together, the above findings suggest that CAFs promote growth, migration and invasion of MDA-MB-231 cells via the paracrine FGF2-FGFR1 loop in the breast tumor microenvironment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jinyoung Suh
- Tumor Microenvironment Global Core Research Center and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Do-Hee Kim
- Department of Chemistry, College of Convergence and Integrated Science, Kyonggi University, Suwon, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
| | - Yeon-Hwa Lee
- Tumor Microenvironment Global Core Research Center and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jeong-Hoon Jang
- Tumor Microenvironment Global Core Research Center and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Young-Joon Surh
- Tumor Microenvironment Global Core Research Center and Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Molecular Medicine and Biopharmaceutical Sciences, Graduate School of Convergence Science and Technology, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea.,Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Zhang Q, Zhang H, Ning T, Liu D, Deng T, Liu R, Bai M, Zhu K, Li J, Fan Q, Ying G, Ba Y. Exosome-Delivered c-Met siRNA Could Reverse Chemoresistance to Cisplatin in Gastric Cancer. Int J Nanomedicine 2020; 15:2323-2335. [PMID: 32308384 PMCID: PMC7133545 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s231214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Drug resistance often occurs in the treatment of gastric cancer, which is the main cause of poor prognosis of chemotherapy. c-Met is overexpressed in a variety of tumors including gastric cancer, often leads to poor prognosis of gastric cancer, therefore regarded as a key target for the treatment of gastric cancer. This study aims to determine whether exosomes with si-c-Met could inhibit the resistance to cisplatin in gastric cancer (GC). Methods The protein expression levels of c-Met in tumor tissues and normal tissues of patients were evaluated by Western blot (WB) and immunohistochemistry (IHC), HEK293T cells were transfected with si-c-Met, exosomes were isolated, then co-cultured with gastric cancer cell lines and confirmed that it was incorporated into the cells by transmitted electron microscopy. Functional experiments were performed to examine the inhibitory effect of exo-si-c-Met on gastric cancer cell resistance in vitro, and xenograft models were used to reveal that exo-si-c-Met can enhance the sensitivity of tumors to cisplatin in vivo. Results High expression of c-Met is associated with poor prognosis of GC patients. si-c-Met significantly inhibited migration, invasion and promoted apoptosis in vitro, which indicated that si-c-Met sensitizes the response of gastric cancer cells to cisplatin. Exo-si-c-Met sharply reduced c-Met expression in gastric cancer cells and reverse the resistance to cisplatin in vitro and in vivo. Conclusion Our results indicate that exo-si-c-Met can inhibit the invasion and migration of gastric cancer cells and promote apoptosis in vitro and inhibit tumor growth in vivo, reversing the resistance to cisplatin in gastric cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiumo Zhang
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, People's Republic of China
| | - Haiyang Zhang
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, People's Republic of China
| | - Tao Ning
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, People's Republic of China
| | - Dongying Liu
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, People's Republic of China
| | - Ting Deng
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, People's Republic of China
| | - Rui Liu
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, People's Republic of China
| | - Ming Bai
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, People's Republic of China
| | - Kegan Zhu
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, People's Republic of China
| | - Jialu Li
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Disease; Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Ministry of Health, Shanghai Jiao-Tong University School of Medicine Renji Hospital, Shanghai 200001, People's Republic of China
| | - Qian Fan
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, People's Republic of China
| | - Guoguang Ying
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi Ba
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Gregoraszczuk EL, Zajda K, Tekla J, Respekta N, Zdybał P, Such A. Vitamin C supplementation had no side effect in non-cancer, but had anticancer properties in ovarian cancer cells. INT J VITAM NUTR RES 2020; 91:293-303. [PMID: 32008465 DOI: 10.1024/0300-9831/a000634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Vitamin C (Vit C) has been widely used in the treatment and prevention of cancer. Nevertheless, the clinical results are still inconclusive. Using non-cancer (HOSEpiC) and cancer OVCAR-3 cells cultured in basal medium or in ovarian cancer-associated fibroblast (CAF)-supplemented medium, we estimated the dose-dependent effect of Vit C on sodium-ascorbate co-transporters (SVCT1, SVCT2) and glucose transporter (GLUT1) protein expression. Additionally, the action of Vit C on cell proliferation (alamarBlue), membrane permeability (LDH assay), caspase3 activity, the selected cell cycle and apoptosis pathway, poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP) protein expression, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) activity was determined. We showed different effects of Vit C on the expression of the co-transporter in non-cancer and cancer cells. In non-cancer cells, Vit C, at a pharmacological concentration, increased SVCT2 and decreased GLUT1, while the opposite effect was noted in cancer cells. In cancer cells, Vit C, in a pharmacological dose, decreased cell proliferation through an inhibitory effect on cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK2) (4.4-fold; p < 0.01), mainly due to the stimulatory effect on the expression of cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) inhibitors, such as p21 and p53 (3.2- and 2.8-fold, respectively; p < 0.001), but not caspase pathway. The tumour microenvironment caused inefficiency of the lower doses of Vit C in ovarian cancer cells. At a pharmacological dose of 1 mM, Vit C decreased PARP expression (1.5-fold; p < 0.05). We suggest that it's nontoxic effects on non-cancer cells may be an indicator of its prophylactic use, while in a pharmacological dose Vit C should be considered a possible adjunctive drug in ovarian cancer. However, it is necessary to consider the effect of the CAF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Lucja Gregoraszczuk
- Department of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Kraków, Poland
| | - Karolina Zajda
- Department of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Kraków, Poland
| | - Joanna Tekla
- Department of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Kraków, Poland
| | - Natalia Respekta
- Department of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Kraków, Poland
| | - Paweł Zdybał
- Department of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Kraków, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Such
- Department of Physiology and Toxicology of Reproduction, Institute of Zoology and Biomedical Research, Jagiellonian University in Kraków, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Xu S, Lam SK, Cheng PNM, Ho JCM. Contactin 1 modulates pegylated arginase resistance in small cell lung cancer through induction of epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Sci Rep 2019; 9:12030. [PMID: 31427725 PMCID: PMC6700313 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-48476-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2019] [Accepted: 08/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Drug resistance is a major hurdle in the treatment of small cell lung cancer (SCLC). Previously we demonstrated the potential anticancer effect of pegylated arginase BCT-100 in SCLC cell lines and xenograft models. To facilitate future clinical application of BCT-100 in SCLC treatment, we elucidated the potential mechanisms that underlie acquired drug resistance to BCT-100. H446 and H526 SCLC cells were serially cultured in stepwise increasing concentrations of BCT-100 until stable BCT-100-resistant cell lines emerged (H446-BR and H526-BR). Compared with parent cells, H446-BR and H526-BR displayed stronger migration ability, anoikis resistance and EMT progression. Gene chip assay was employed to select three potential targets (CDH17, CNTN-1 and IGF2BP1). Silencing CNTN-1 rather than CDH17 or IGF2BP1 in H446-BR and H526-BR cells re-sensitized resistant cells to BCT-100 treatment and attenuated the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) phenotype. The AKT signaling pathway was activated in H446-BR and H526-BR cells accompanied by EMT progression, and AKT inhibitor LY294002 reversed the EMT progression in resistant cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shi Xu
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China.,Department of Burn and Plastic Surgery, Shenzhen Longhua District Central Hospital, Affiliated Central Hospital of Shenzhen Longhua District, Guangdong Medical University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Sze-Kwan Lam
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Paul Ning-Man Cheng
- Bio-cancer Treatment International, 511-513, Bioinformatics Building, Hong Kong Science Park, Tai Po, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - James Chung-Man Ho
- Division of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China.
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Li JY, Ren KK, Zhang WJ, Xiao L, Wu HY, Liu QY, Ding T, Zhang XC, Nie WJ, Ke Y, Deng KY, Liu QW, Xin HB. Human amniotic mesenchymal stem cells and their paracrine factors promote wound healing by inhibiting heat stress-induced skin cell apoptosis and enhancing their proliferation through activating PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Stem Cell Res Ther 2019; 10:247. [PMID: 31399039 PMCID: PMC6688220 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-019-1366-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2019] [Revised: 07/29/2019] [Accepted: 07/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Increasing evidence has shown that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) yield a favorable therapeutic benefit for thermal burn skin wounds. Human amniotic MSCs (hAMSCs) derived from amniotic membrane have multilineage differentiation, immunosuppressive, and anti-inflammatory potential which makes them suitable for treating skin wounds. However, the exact effects of hAMSCs on the healing of thermal burn skin wounds and their potential mechanisms are not explored. Methods hAMSCs were isolated from amniotic membrane and characterized by RT-PCR, flow cytometry, immunofluorescence, and tumorigenicity test. We assessed the effects of hAMSCs and hAMSC conditional medium (CM) on wound healing in a deep second-degree burn injury model of mice. We then investigated the biological effects of hAMSCs and hAMSC-CM on the apoptosis and proliferation of heat stress-injured human keratinocytes HaCAT and dermal fibroblasts (DFL) both in vivo and in vitro. Next, we explored the underlying mechanisms by assessing PI3K/AKT and GSK3β/β-catenin signaling pathways in heat injured HaCAT and DFL cells after hAMSCs and hAMSC-CM treatments using PI3K inhibitor LY294002 and β-catenin inhibitor ICG001. Antibody array assay was used to identify the cytokines secreted by hAMSCs that may activate PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Results Our results showed that hAMSCs expressed various markers of embryonic stem cells and mesenchymal stem cells and have low immunogenicity and no tumorigenicity. hAMSC and hAMSC-CM transplantation significantly promoted thermal burn wound healing by accelerating re-epithelialization with increased expression of CK19 and PCNA in vivo. hAMSCs and hAMSC-CM markedly inhibited heat stress-induced apoptosis in HaCAT and DFL cells in vitro through activation of PI3K/AKT signaling and promoted their proliferation by activating GSK3β/β-catenin signaling. Furthermore, we demonstrated that hAMSC-mediated activation of GSK3β/β-catenin signaling was dependent on PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Antibody array assay showed that a panel of cytokines including PAI-1, C-GSF, periostin, and TIMP-1 delivered from hAMSCs may contribute to the improvement of the wound healing through activating PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Conclusion Our results demonstrated that hAMSCs and hAMSC-CM efficiently cure heat stress-induced skin injury by inhibiting apoptosis of skin cells and promoting their proliferation through activating PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, suggesting that hAMSCs and hAMSC-CM may provide an alternative therapeutic approach for the treatment of skin injury. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13287-019-1366-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Yuan Li
- The National Engineering Research Center for Bioengineering Drugs and the Technologies, Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanchang University, No. 1299 Xuefu Road, Honggutan District, Nanchang, 330031, People's Republic of China.,School of Life and Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330031, People's Republic of China
| | - Kang-Kang Ren
- The National Engineering Research Center for Bioengineering Drugs and the Technologies, Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanchang University, No. 1299 Xuefu Road, Honggutan District, Nanchang, 330031, People's Republic of China
| | - Wen-Jie Zhang
- The National Engineering Research Center for Bioengineering Drugs and the Technologies, Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanchang University, No. 1299 Xuefu Road, Honggutan District, Nanchang, 330031, People's Republic of China
| | - Ling Xiao
- The National Engineering Research Center for Bioengineering Drugs and the Technologies, Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanchang University, No. 1299 Xuefu Road, Honggutan District, Nanchang, 330031, People's Republic of China
| | - Han-You Wu
- The National Engineering Research Center for Bioengineering Drugs and the Technologies, Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanchang University, No. 1299 Xuefu Road, Honggutan District, Nanchang, 330031, People's Republic of China
| | - Qian-Yu Liu
- The National Engineering Research Center for Bioengineering Drugs and the Technologies, Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanchang University, No. 1299 Xuefu Road, Honggutan District, Nanchang, 330031, People's Republic of China
| | - Ting Ding
- The National Engineering Research Center for Bioengineering Drugs and the Technologies, Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanchang University, No. 1299 Xuefu Road, Honggutan District, Nanchang, 330031, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiang-Cheng Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, People's Republic of China
| | - Wen-Jia Nie
- The National Engineering Research Center for Bioengineering Drugs and the Technologies, Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanchang University, No. 1299 Xuefu Road, Honggutan District, Nanchang, 330031, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu Ke
- The National Engineering Research Center for Bioengineering Drugs and the Technologies, Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanchang University, No. 1299 Xuefu Road, Honggutan District, Nanchang, 330031, People's Republic of China
| | - Ke-Yu Deng
- The National Engineering Research Center for Bioengineering Drugs and the Technologies, Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanchang University, No. 1299 Xuefu Road, Honggutan District, Nanchang, 330031, People's Republic of China
| | - Quan-Wen Liu
- The National Engineering Research Center for Bioengineering Drugs and the Technologies, Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanchang University, No. 1299 Xuefu Road, Honggutan District, Nanchang, 330031, People's Republic of China.
| | - Hong-Bo Xin
- The National Engineering Research Center for Bioengineering Drugs and the Technologies, Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanchang University, No. 1299 Xuefu Road, Honggutan District, Nanchang, 330031, People's Republic of China. .,School of Life and Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330031, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Zhang R, Qi F, Shao S, Li G, Feng Y. Human colorectal cancer-derived carcinoma associated fibroblasts promote CD44-mediated adhesion of colorectal cancer cells to endothelial cells by secretion of HGF. Cancer Cell Int 2019; 19:192. [PMID: 31367190 PMCID: PMC6657169 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-019-0914-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Carcinoma-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are dominant components of tumor microenvironment, which has been reported to promote development, progression, and metastasis of cancer. However, the role of CAFs during adhesion process remains unknown. It has been hypothesized that CAFs contribute to adhesion to endothelial cells of colorectal cancer (CRC) via HGF/c-Met pathway. METHODS Clinical specimen and orthotopic liver metastasis model was used to investigate association between CD44 expression and propensity of metastasis in CRC. Human CRC derived cancer associated fibroblasts was isolated and its effect on migration and adhesion of CRC cells was investigated. We also confirm the conclusion on animal metastasis model. RESULTS In this study, clinical specimen and orthotopic liver metastatic model indicated that overexpression of CD44 is associated with CRC metastasis, and we found that colorectal cancer-derived CAFs (CC-CAFs) increased the adhesion and migration of CRC cells in vitro through up-regulation of CD44, we also found that CC-CAFs promoted adhesion and liver or lung metastasis in vivo. Mechanistically, we found that the expression of HGF increased tenfolds compared CC-CAFs with adjacent normal fibroblasts, and HGF promoted adhesion through up-regulation of CD44 via HGF/c-MET signal pathway. CONCLUSIONS These results indicated that CC-CAFs-derived HGF induced up-regulation of CD44 which mediated adhesion of CRC cells to endothelial cells, and subsequently resulted in enhancement of metastasis of CRC cells, it could provide a novel therapeutic or preventive target.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rongsheng Zhang
- Cancer Research Institute, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030 Hubei China
| | - Fan Qi
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030 Hubei China
| | - Shengli Shao
- Cancer Research Institute, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030 Hubei China
| | - Geng Li
- Cancer Research Institute, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030 Hubei China
| | - Yongdong Feng
- Cancer Research Institute, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030 Hubei China
| |
Collapse
|