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Qin Q, Yu R, Eriksson JE, Tsai HI, Zhu H. Cancer-associated fibroblasts in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma therapy: Challenges and opportunities. Cancer Lett 2024; 591:216859. [PMID: 38615928 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216859] [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: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 03/30/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a solid organ malignancy with a high mortality rate. Statistics indicate that its incidence has been increasing as well as the associated deaths. Most patients with PDAC show poor response to therapies making the clinical management of this cancer difficult. Stromal cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME) contribute to the development of resistance to therapy in PDAC cancer cells. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), the most prevalent stromal cells in the TME, promote a desmoplastic response, produce extracellular matrix proteins and cytokines, and directly influence the biological behavior of cancer cells. These multifaceted effects make it difficult to eradicate tumor cells from the body. As a result, CAF-targeting synergistic therapeutic strategies have gained increasing attention in recent years. However, due to the substantial heterogeneity in CAF origin, definition, and function, as well as high plasticity, majority of the available CAF-targeting therapeutic approaches are not effective, and in some cases, they exacerbate disease progression. This review primarily elucidates on the effect of CAFs on therapeutic efficiency of various treatment modalities, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy. Strategies for CAF targeting therapies are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Qin
- Institute of Medical Imaging and Artificial Intelligence, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, China
| | - Rong Yu
- Institute of Medical Imaging and Artificial Intelligence, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, China
| | - John E Eriksson
- Cell Biology, Biosciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Åbo Akademi University, Turku, FI-20520 Finland
| | - Hsiang-I Tsai
- Institute of Medical Imaging and Artificial Intelligence, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, China; Department of Medical Imaging, The Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, China.
| | - Haitao Zhu
- Institute of Medical Imaging and Artificial Intelligence, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, China; Department of Medical Imaging, The Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, China.
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2
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Lei Y, Xu J, Xiao M, Wu D, Xu H, Yang J, Mao X, Pan H, Yu X, Shi S. Pirfenidone alleviates fibrosis by acting on tumour-stroma interplay in pancreatic cancer. Br J Cancer 2024; 130:1505-1516. [PMID: 38454166 PMCID: PMC11058874 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-024-02631-9] [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: 12/31/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a malignancy with a 5-year survival rate of 12%. The abundant mesenchyme is partly responsible for the malignancy. The antifibrotic therapies have gained attention in recent research. However, the role of pirfenidone, an FDA-approved drug for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, remains unclear in PDAC. METHODS Data from RNA-seq of patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models treated with pirfenidone were integrated using bioinformatics tools to identify the target of cell types and genes. Using confocal microscopy, qRT-PCR and western blotting, we validated the signalling pathway in tumour cells to regulate the cytokine secretion. Further cocultured system demonstrated the interplay to regulate stroma fibrosis. Finally, mouse models demonstrated the potential of pirfenidone in PDAC. RESULTS Pirfenidone can remodulate multiple biological pathways, and exerts an antifibrotic effect through inhibiting the secretion of PDGF-bb from tumour cells by downregulating the TGM2/NF-kB/PDGFB pathway. Thus, leading to a subsequent reduction in collagen X and fibronectin secreted by CAFs. Moreover, the mice orthotopic pancreatic tumour models demonstrated the antifibrotic effect and potential to sensitise gemcitabine. CONCLUSIONS Pirfenidone may alter the pancreatic milieu and alleviate fibrosis through the regulation of tumour-stroma interactions via the TGM2/NF-kB/PDGFB signalling pathway, suggesting potential therapeutic benefits in PDAC management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yalan Lei
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jin Xu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Mingming Xiao
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Di Wu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - He Xu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Yang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoqi Mao
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Haoqi Pan
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xianjun Yu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China.
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Si Shi
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China.
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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3
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Liu B, Wu T, Lin B, Liu X, Liu Y, Song G, Fan C, Ouyang G. Periostin-TGF-β feedforward loop contributes to tumour-stroma crosstalk in liver metastatic outgrowth of colorectal cancer. Br J Cancer 2024; 130:358-368. [PMID: 38097742 PMCID: PMC10844286 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-023-02516-3] [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: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to investigate the underlying mechanisms of matricellular protein periostin (POSTN) on tumour-stroma crosstalk in the liver metastatic microenvironment of colorectal cancer (CRC). METHODS Postn-knockout mice and hepatic Postn-overexpressing mice were used to investigate the functions of POSTN on the formation of fibrotic microenvironment and the tumour-stroma crosstalk in the liver metastatic microenvironment of CRC. Clinical samples and database were analyzed to show the correlation between POSTN expression and fibrotic features and TGF-β signalling in metastatic livers of CRC. RESULTS POSTN deficiency reduced hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation and liver metastasis, whereas POSTN overexpression in the liver significantly augmented the formation of a fibrotic microenvironment to support the liver metastatic growth of CRC cells in mice. Moreover, HSC-derived POSTN promoted TGF-β1 expression in CRC cells through the integrin/FAK/ERK/STAT3 pathway; conversely, tumour cell-derived TGF-β1 induced POSTN expression in HSCs via the Smad pathway. POSTN levels correlated with fibrotic features and TGF-β signalling in metastatic liver tissues of CRC patients. CONCLUSIONS POSTN and TGF-β1 cooperatively contribute to the tumour-stroma crosstalk by forming a supporting fibrotic microenvironment to promote liver metastasis of CRC cells via the POSTN/integrin/FAK/ERK/STAT3/TGF-β axis in tumour cells and TGF-β/Smad/POSTN signalling in activated HSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Department of Hematology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University and Institute of Hematology, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Tiantian Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Department of Hematology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University and Institute of Hematology, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Biyu Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Xingxing Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Department of Hematology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University and Institute of Hematology, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Yingfu Liu
- Department of Hematology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University and Institute of Hematology, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Gang Song
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.
| | - Chuannan Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology and Oncode Institute, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - Gaoliang Ouyang
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.
- Department of Hematology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University and Institute of Hematology, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.
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4
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Chen Y, Zhang F, Zhang B, Trojanowicz B, Hämmerle M, Kleeff J, Sunami Y. Periostin is associated with prognosis and immune cell infiltration in pancreatic adenocarcinoma based on integrated bioinformatics analysis. Cancer Rep (Hoboken) 2024; 7:e1990. [PMID: 38389400 PMCID: PMC10884618 DOI: 10.1002/cnr2.1990] [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: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pancreatic cancer is one of the most aggressive human malignancies. Previous research has shown that periostin (POSTN) promotes pancreatic cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Further, POSTN is involved in tumor microenvironment remodeling during tumor progression. However, the relationship between POSTN expression, immune cell infiltration, and the efficacy of immunotherapy in pancreatic cancer is unclear. METHODS We conducted a comprehensive evaluation of POSTN differential expression, examining mRNA and protein levels. To gather data, we utilized various databases including gene expression profiling interactive analysis 2 (GEPIA2), gene expression omnibus (GEO), and the human protein atlas (HPA). To investigate the correlation between POSTN expression and clinical characteristics, we analyzed data from the Kaplan-Meier plotter database and clinical data sourced from the cancer genome atlas (TCGA). Furthermore, we performed gene ontology (GO) analysis, Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis, and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA). Additionally, we explored the relationship between POSTN expression and immune cell infiltration, as well as the immunophenoscore (IPS), by leveraging the cancer immunome atlas (TCIA) database. Lastly, we examined the tumor mutational burden (TMB) in pancreatic cancer in relation to POSTN expression. RESULTS When compared with healthy pancreatic tissues, pancreatic cancer tissues displayed significantly higher levels of POSTN, which was indicative of a worse prognosis. POSTN expression was closely associated with extracellular matrix (ECM) organization, ECM-receptor interaction, and focal adhesion by GO, KEGG pathway, and GSEA analyses. Higher expression of POSTN was associated with increased infiltration of M2 macrophages. Additionally, increased IPS was linked to lower POSTN expression. IPS scores for CTLA4, PD-1/PDL1, and CTLA4/PD-1/PDL1 immune checkpoint inhibitors were also higher in the POSTN-low expression group, suggesting that lower expression of POSTN is associated with a better outcome with checkpoint inhibitor treatment. CONCLUSION POSTN is related to pancreatic cancer prognosis, and may influence immune cell infiltration. High expression of POSTN is predicted to correlate with lower sensitivity to immunotherapy with checkpoint inhibitors in pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yijun Chen
- Department of Visceral, Vascular and Endocrine SurgeryMartin‐Luther‐University Halle‐Wittenberg, University Medical Center HalleHalle (Saale)Germany
| | - Fengyu Zhang
- School of Biomedical Engineering and TechnologyTianjin Medical UniversityTianjinChina
| | - Bolin Zhang
- Department of Visceral, Vascular and Endocrine SurgeryMartin‐Luther‐University Halle‐Wittenberg, University Medical Center HalleHalle (Saale)Germany
| | - Bogusz Trojanowicz
- Department of Visceral, Vascular and Endocrine SurgeryMartin‐Luther‐University Halle‐Wittenberg, University Medical Center HalleHalle (Saale)Germany
| | - Monika Hämmerle
- Institute of Pathology, Martin‐Luther‐University Halle‐WittenbergUniversity Medical Center HalleHalle (Saale)Germany
| | - Jörg Kleeff
- Department of Visceral, Vascular and Endocrine SurgeryMartin‐Luther‐University Halle‐Wittenberg, University Medical Center HalleHalle (Saale)Germany
| | - Yoshiaki Sunami
- Department of Visceral, Vascular and Endocrine SurgeryMartin‐Luther‐University Halle‐Wittenberg, University Medical Center HalleHalle (Saale)Germany
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Chen Z, Guan D, Wang Z, Li X, Dong S, Huang J, Zhou W. Microbiota in cancer: molecular mechanisms and therapeutic interventions. MedComm (Beijing) 2023; 4:e417. [PMID: 37937304 PMCID: PMC10626288 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The diverse bacterial populations within the symbiotic microbiota play a pivotal role in both health and disease. Microbiota modulates critical aspects of tumor biology including cell proliferation, invasion, and metastasis. This regulation occurs through mechanisms like enhancing genomic damage, hindering gene repair, activating aberrant cell signaling pathways, influencing tumor cell metabolism, promoting revascularization, and remodeling the tumor immune microenvironment. These microbiota-mediated effects significantly impact overall survival and the recurrence of tumors after surgery by affecting the efficacy of chemoradiotherapy. Moreover, leveraging the microbiota for the development of biovectors, probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics, in addition to utilizing antibiotics, dietary adjustments, defensins, oncolytic virotherapy, and fecal microbiota transplantation, offers promising alternatives for cancer treatment. Nonetheless, due to the extensive and diverse nature of the microbiota, along with tumor heterogeneity, the molecular mechanisms underlying the role of microbiota in cancer remain a subject of intense debate. In this context, we refocus on various cancers, delving into the molecular signaling pathways associated with the microbiota and its derivatives, the reshaping of the tumor microenvironmental matrix, and the impact on tolerance to tumor treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy. This exploration aims to shed light on novel perspectives and potential applications in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhou Chen
- The First Clinical Medical CollegeLanzhou UniversityLanzhouGansuChina
- The First Hospital of Lanzhou UniversityLanzhouGansuChina
| | - Defeng Guan
- The First Clinical Medical CollegeLanzhou UniversityLanzhouGansuChina
- The First Hospital of Lanzhou UniversityLanzhouGansuChina
| | - Zhengfeng Wang
- The First Clinical Medical CollegeLanzhou UniversityLanzhouGansuChina
- The First Hospital of Lanzhou UniversityLanzhouGansuChina
| | - Xin Li
- The Second Clinical Medical CollegeLanzhou UniversityLanzhouGansuChina
- The Department of General SurgeryLanzhou University Second HospitalLanzhouGansuChina
| | - Shi Dong
- The Second Clinical Medical CollegeLanzhou UniversityLanzhouGansuChina
- The Department of General SurgeryLanzhou University Second HospitalLanzhouGansuChina
| | - Junjun Huang
- The First Hospital of Lanzhou UniversityLanzhouGansuChina
| | - Wence Zhou
- The First Clinical Medical CollegeLanzhou UniversityLanzhouGansuChina
- The Department of General SurgeryLanzhou University Second HospitalLanzhouGansuChina
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6
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Jiang Z, Zheng X, Li M, Liu M. Improving the prognosis of pancreatic cancer: insights from epidemiology, genomic alterations, and therapeutic challenges. Front Med 2023; 17:1135-1169. [PMID: 38151666 DOI: 10.1007/s11684-023-1050-6] [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: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer, notorious for its late diagnosis and aggressive progression, poses a substantial challenge owing to scarce treatment alternatives. This review endeavors to furnish a holistic insight into pancreatic cancer, encompassing its epidemiology, genomic characterization, risk factors, diagnosis, therapeutic strategies, and treatment resistance mechanisms. We delve into identifying risk factors, including genetic predisposition and environmental exposures, and explore recent research advancements in precursor lesions and molecular subtypes of pancreatic cancer. Additionally, we highlight the development and application of multi-omics approaches in pancreatic cancer research and discuss the latest combinations of pancreatic cancer biomarkers and their efficacy. We also dissect the primary mechanisms underlying treatment resistance in this malignancy, illustrating the latest therapeutic options and advancements in the field. Conclusively, we accentuate the urgent demand for more extensive research to enhance the prognosis for pancreatic cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhichen Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China
- Department of General Surgery, Division of Gastroenterology and Pancreas, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Xiaohao Zheng
- Department of Pancreatic and Gastric Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China
- Department of General Surgery, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Min Li
- Department of Medicine, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, 73104, USA.
| | - Mingyang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100021, China.
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7
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Park MN. Therapeutic Strategies for Pancreatic-Cancer-Related Type 2 Diabetes Centered around Natural Products. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15906. [PMID: 37958889 PMCID: PMC10648679 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242115906] [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: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), a highly malignant neoplasm, is classified as one of the most severe and devastating types of cancer. PDAC is a notable malignancy that exhibits a discouraging prognosis and a rising occurrence. The interplay between diabetes and pancreatic cancer exhibits a reciprocal causation. The identified metabolic disorder has been observed to possess noteworthy consequences on health outcomes, resulting in elevated rates of morbidity. The principal mechanisms involve the suppression of the immune system, the activation of pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs), and the onset of systemic metabolic disease caused by dysfunction of the islets. From this point forward, it is important to recognize that pancreatic-cancer-related diabetes (PCRD) has the ability to increase the likelihood of developing pancreatic cancer. This highlights the complex relationship that exists between these two physiological states. Therefore, we investigated into the complex domain of PSCs, elucidating their intricate signaling pathways and the profound influence of chemokines on their behavior and final outcome. In order to surmount the obstacle of drug resistance and eliminate PDAC, researchers have undertaken extensive efforts to explore and cultivate novel natural compounds of the next generation. Additional investigation is necessary in order to comprehensively comprehend the effect of PCRD-mediated apoptosis on the progression and onset of PDAC through the utilization of natural compounds. This study aims to examine the potential anticancer properties of natural compounds in individuals with diabetes who are undergoing chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy. It is anticipated that these compounds will exhibit increased potency and possess enhanced pharmacological benefits. According to our research findings, it is indicated that naturally derived chemical compounds hold potential in the development of PDAC therapies that are both safe and efficacious.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moon Nyeo Park
- Department of Pathology, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Hoegidong Dongdaemungu, Seoul 05253, Republic of Korea
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8
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Luo W, Zhang T. Cancer-associated fibroblasts: A key target to snatch victory from defeat in therapy resistance associated with the pancreatic cancer stroma. Cancer Lett 2023:216279. [PMID: 37336287 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2023.216279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023]
Abstract
The stroma plays a dual role in the tumour microenvironment (TME), where it can both promote or restrict tumour growth. These effects are significantly modulated by the presence of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), key components of the TME. The stroma and CAFs influence pancreatic cancer (PC) both physically and functionally. The physical impact involves the deposition of a wall-like matrix, creating a solid barrier that prevents the escape of materials from the inside and the entry of substances from the outside. Functionally, the stroma influences PC treatment through crosstalk between CAFs, cancer cells, and immune cells. Transformation of the "CAFs wall", however, may reduce the original benefit of limiting PC metastasis. In this review, we found that targeting the CAFs and designing novel carriers allowing the entry of drugs or therapeutic agents into the TME are alternative strategies to effectively treat PC. This article aims to provide a specific review focusing on the possibly therapeutic markers and its novel therapeutic strategies of CAFs in PC, discussing the concise treatment methods and its new challenging in current advanced researches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhao Luo
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China.
| | - Taiping Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China.
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9
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Ge Y, Bruno M, Nash MS, Coates NH, Chorley BN, Cave MC, Beier JI. Vinyl chloride enhances high-fat diet-induced proteome alterations in the mouse pancreas related to metabolic dysfunction. Toxicol Sci 2023; 193:103-114. [PMID: 36892438 PMCID: PMC10176240 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfad024] [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] [Indexed: 03/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Alterations in physiological processes in pancreas have been associated with various metabolic dysfunctions and can result from environmental exposures, such as chemicals and diet. It was reported that environmental vinyl chloride (VC) exposure, a common industrial organochlorine and environmental pollutant, significantly exacerbated metabolic-related phenotypes in mice fed concurrently with high-fat diet (HFD) but not low-fat diet (LFD). However, little is known about the role of the pancreas in this interplay, especially at a proteomic level. The present study was undertaken to examine the protein responses to VC exposure in pancreas tissues of C57BL/6J mice fed LFD or HFD, with focus on the investigation of protein expression and/or phosphorylation levels of key protein biomarkers of carbohydrate, lipid, and energy metabolism, oxidative stress and detoxification, insulin secretion and regulation, cell growth, development, and communication, immunological responses and inflammation, and biomarkers of pancreatic diseases and cancers. We found that the protein alterations may indicate diet-mediated susceptibility in mouse pancreas induced by HFD to concurrent exposure of low levels of inhaled VC. These proteome biomarkers may lead to a better understanding of pancreas-mediated adaptive or adverse response and susceptibility to metabolic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Ge
- Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711, USA
| | - Maribel Bruno
- Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711, USA
| | - Maliha S Nash
- Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711, USA
| | - Najwa Haykal Coates
- Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711, USA
| | - Brian N Chorley
- Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711, USA
| | - Matthew C Cave
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, USA
| | - Juliane I Beier
- Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213, USA
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213, USA
- Pittsburgh Liver Research Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213, USA
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10
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Rebelo R, Xavier CPR, Giovannetti E, Vasconcelos MH. Fibroblasts in pancreatic cancer: molecular and clinical perspectives. Trends Mol Med 2023; 29:439-453. [PMID: 37100646 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2023.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are highly abundant cells in the pancreatic tumor microenvironment (TME) that modulate desmoplasia. The formation of a dense stroma leads to immunosuppression and therapy resistance that are major causes of treatment failure in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Recent evidence suggests that several subpopulations of CAFs in the TME can interconvert, explaining the dual roles (antitumorigenic and protumorigenic) of CAFs in PDAC and the contradictory results of CAF-targeted therapies in clinical trials. This highlights the need to clarify CAF heterogeneity and their interactions with PDAC cells. This review focuses on the communication between activated PSCs/CAFs and PDAC cells, as well as on the mechanisms underlying this crosstalk. CAF-focused therapies and emerging biomarkers are also outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Rebelo
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; Cancer Drug Resistance Group, Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology (IPATIMUP), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy of the University of Porto (FFUP), Porto, Portugal
| | - Cristina P R Xavier
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; Cancer Drug Resistance Group, Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology (IPATIMUP), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Elisa Giovannetti
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Fondazione Pisana per La Scienza, Pisa, Italy
| | - M Helena Vasconcelos
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde (i3S), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; Cancer Drug Resistance Group, Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology (IPATIMUP), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal; Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy of the University of Porto (FFUP), Porto, Portugal.
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Benkhaled S, Peters C, Jullian N, Arsenijevic T, Navez J, Van Gestel D, Moretti L, Van Laethem JL, Bouchart C. Combination, Modulation and Interplay of Modern Radiotherapy with the Tumor Microenvironment and Targeted Therapies in Pancreatic Cancer: Which Candidates to Boost Radiotherapy? Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15030768. [PMID: 36765726 PMCID: PMC9913158 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15030768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma cancer (PDAC) is a highly diverse disease with low tumor immunogenicity. PDAC is also one of the deadliest solid tumor and will remain a common cause of cancer death in the future. Treatment options are limited, and tumors frequently develop resistance to current treatment modalities. Since PDAC patients do not respond well to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), novel methods for overcoming resistance are being explored. Compared to other solid tumors, the PDAC's tumor microenvironment (TME) is unique and complex and prevents systemic agents from effectively penetrating and killing tumor cells. Radiotherapy (RT) has the potential to modulate the TME (e.g., by exposing tumor-specific antigens, recruiting, and infiltrating immune cells) and, therefore, enhance the effectiveness of targeted systemic therapies. Interestingly, combining ICI with RT and/or chemotherapy has yielded promising preclinical results which were not successful when translated into clinical trials. In this context, current standards of care need to be challenged and transformed with modern treatment techniques and novel therapeutic combinations. One way to reconcile these findings is to abandon the concept that the TME is a well-compartmented population with spatial, temporal, physical, and chemical elements acting independently. This review will focus on the most interesting advancements of RT and describe the main components of the TME and their known modulation after RT in PDAC. Furthermore, we will provide a summary of current clinical data for combinations of RT/targeted therapy (tRT) and give an overview of the most promising future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofian Benkhaled
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hopital Universitaire de Bruxelles (H.U.B.), Institut Jules Bordet, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Rue Meylenmeersch 90, 1070 Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Radiation Oncology, UNIL-CHUV, Rue du Bugnon 46, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Cedric Peters
- Department of Radiation Oncology, AZ Turnhout, Rubensstraat 166, 2300 Turnhout, Belgium
| | - Nicolas Jullian
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hopital Universitaire de Bruxelles (H.U.B.), Institut Jules Bordet, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Rue Meylenmeersch 90, 1070 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Tatjana Arsenijevic
- Laboratory of Experimental Gastroenterology, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), 1070 Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Digestive Oncology, Hopital Universitaire de Bruxelles H.U.B. CUB Hopital Erasme, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Route de Lennik 808, 1070 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Julie Navez
- Department of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Hopital Universitaire de Bruxelles H.U.B. CUB Hopital Erasme, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), 1070 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Dirk Van Gestel
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hopital Universitaire de Bruxelles (H.U.B.), Institut Jules Bordet, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Rue Meylenmeersch 90, 1070 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Luigi Moretti
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hopital Universitaire de Bruxelles (H.U.B.), Institut Jules Bordet, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Rue Meylenmeersch 90, 1070 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jean-Luc Van Laethem
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Digestive Oncology, Hopital Universitaire de Bruxelles H.U.B. CUB Hopital Erasme, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Route de Lennik 808, 1070 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Christelle Bouchart
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hopital Universitaire de Bruxelles (H.U.B.), Institut Jules Bordet, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Rue Meylenmeersch 90, 1070 Brussels, Belgium
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +32-25-413-800
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12
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Wenhua S, Tsunematsu T, Umeda M, Tawara H, Fujiwara N, Mouri Y, Arakaki R, Ishimaru N, Kudo Y. Cancer cell-derived novel periostin isoform promotes invasion in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Cancer Med 2023; 12:8510-8525. [PMID: 36691359 PMCID: PMC10134278 DOI: 10.1002/cam4.5601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
It recently has been reported that partial-epithelial-mesenchymal transition (p-EMT) program is associated with metastasis in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). We previously have identified POSTN (which encodes periostin) as an invasion-promoting molecule in HNSCC. Interestingly, POSTN expression is frequently observed in cancer cells with higher p-EMT score by using a previous single-cell transcriptomic data of HNSCC cases. Although it is known that POSTN has 11 splicing variants, the role of them has not been determined in HNSCC. Here, we found that HNSCC cells with EMT features expressed POSTN isoforms, Iso3 (lacking exon 17 and 21) and Iso5 (lacking exon 17), whereas fibroblast expressed Iso3 and Iso4 (lacking exon 17, 18, and 21). The expression of POSTN Iso3 and Iso4 are known to be widely observed in various cell types including stromal cells. Therefore, we focused on the role of novel cancer cell-derived POSTN isoform, Iso5, in HNSCC. Single overexpression of POSTN Iso5 as well as Iso3 promoted invasion. Surprisingly, Iso5 synergistically promoted invasion together with Iso3. Notably, Iso5 as well as Iso3 upregulated p-EMT-related genes. We suggest that a novel cancer-specific POSTN isoform lacking exon 17 (Iso5) can be a useful marker for detecting cancer cells undergoing p-EMT. Moreover, a POSTN Iso5 can be a novel target for diagnosis and therapy in HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shao Wenhua
- Department of Oral Bioscience, Tokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Takaaki Tsunematsu
- Department of Oral Molecular Pathology, Tokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Masaaki Umeda
- Department of Oral Molecular Pathology, Tokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Tawara
- Department of Oral Molecular Pathology, Tokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Natsumi Fujiwara
- Department of Oral Healthcare Promotion, Tokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Mouri
- Department of Oral Bioscience, Tokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Rieko Arakaki
- Department of Oral Molecular Pathology, Tokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Naozumi Ishimaru
- Department of Oral Molecular Pathology, Tokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Yasusei Kudo
- Department of Oral Bioscience, Tokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima, Japan
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13
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Targeting Periostin Expression Makes Pancreatic Cancer Spheroids More Vulnerable to Natural Killer Cells. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11020270. [PMID: 36830807 PMCID: PMC9952976 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11020270] [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: 11/12/2022] [Revised: 01/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PaCa) characteristically has a dense tumor microenvironment, which results in poor patient prognosis. Pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) are the most abundant cells in the PaCa microenvironment and the principal source of collagen. Periostin, a matricellular protein, is produced specifically by PSCs and promotes the aggressiveness of PaCa cells by facilitating extracellular collagen assembly. Here, we aimed to decrease extracellular collagen assembly by suppressing periostin, thereby increasing the cytotoxic activity of natural killer (NK) cells. Periostin expression was suppressed in PSCs (called PSC-P) using CRISPR-Cas9. PaCa cells (BxPC-3) were co-cultured with PSC and PSC-P cells in a 3D environment to form tumor spheroids mimicking the tumor microenvironment. The extracellular collagen production of spheroids was evaluated by Masson's trichrome staining. The cytotoxic activity of NK-92 cells was analyzed by flow cytometry and confocal microscopy via CD107a staining. Cell death in BxPC-3 cells was evaluated by measuring Annexin-V and PI positivity using flow cytometry. As a result, periostin suppression decreased extracellular collagen and increased the infiltration of NK-92 cells into spheroids, and induced cell death in PaCa cells. In conclusion, we suggest that periostin might be a therapeutic target for PaCa and further analysis is warranted using in vivo models for proof-of-concept.
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14
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Neuzillet C, Nicolle R, Raffenne J, Tijeras‐Raballand A, Brunel A, Astorgues‐Xerri L, Vacher S, Arbateraz F, Fanjul M, Hilmi M, Samain R, Klein C, Perraud A, Rebours V, Mathonnet M, Bièche I, Kocher H, Cros J, Bousquet C. Periostin- and podoplanin-positive cancer-associated fibroblast subtypes cooperate to shape the inflamed tumor microenvironment in aggressive pancreatic adenocarcinoma. J Pathol 2022; 258:408-425. [PMID: 36102377 PMCID: PMC9828775 DOI: 10.1002/path.6011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are orchestrators of the pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) microenvironment. Previously we described four CAF subtypes with specific molecular and functional features. Here, we have refined our CAF subtype signatures using RNAseq and immunostaining with the goal of defining bioinformatically the phenotypic stromal and tumor epithelial states associated with CAF diversity. We used primary CAF cultures grown from patient PDAC tumors, human data sets (in-house and public, including single-cell analyses), genetically engineered mouse PDAC tissues, and patient-derived xenografts (PDX) grown in mice. We found that CAF subtype RNAseq signatures correlated with immunostaining. Tumors rich in periostin-positive CAFs were significantly associated with shorter overall survival of patients. Periostin-positive CAFs were characterized by high proliferation and protein synthesis rates and low α-smooth muscle actin expression and were found in peri-/pre-tumoral areas. They were associated with highly cellular tumors and with macrophage infiltrates. Podoplanin-positive CAFs were associated with immune-related signatures and recruitment of dendritic cells. Importantly, we showed that the combination of periostin-positive CAFs and podoplanin-positive CAFs was associated with specific tumor microenvironment features in terms of stromal abundance and immune cell infiltrates. Podoplanin-positive CAFs identified an inflammatory CAF (iCAF)-like subset, whereas periostin-positive CAFs were not correlated with the published myofibroblastic CAF (myCAF)/iCAF classification. Taken together, these results suggest that a periostin-positive CAF is an early, activated CAF, associated with aggressive tumors, whereas a podoplanin-positive CAF is associated with an immune-related phenotype. These two subpopulations cooperate to define specific tumor microenvironment and patient prognosis and are of putative interest for future therapeutic stratification of patients. © 2022 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cindy Neuzillet
- Department of Medical Oncology, Institut CurieUniversité Versailles Saint‐Quentin, Paris SaclaySaint‐CloudFrance,UMR144, Institut CurieParisFrance
| | - Rémy Nicolle
- INSERM U1149, Centre de Recherche sur l'InflammationParisFrance
| | - Jérôme Raffenne
- INSERM UMR‐1037, Cancer Research Center of Toulouse (CRCT), Team ‘labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer’University of ToulouseToulouseFrance
| | | | - Alexia Brunel
- INSERM UMR‐1037, Cancer Research Center of Toulouse (CRCT), Team ‘labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer’University of ToulouseToulouseFrance
| | | | - Sophie Vacher
- Department of GeneticsInstitut Curie, PSL Research UniversityParisFrance
| | - Floriane Arbateraz
- Centre d'Histologie Imagerie et Cytométrie (CHIC), U1138 Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers (CRC)ParisFrance
| | - Marjorie Fanjul
- INSERM UMR‐1037, Cancer Research Center of Toulouse (CRCT), Team ‘labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer’University of ToulouseToulouseFrance
| | - Marc Hilmi
- Department of Medical Oncology, Institut CurieUniversité Versailles Saint‐Quentin, Paris SaclaySaint‐CloudFrance
| | - Rémi Samain
- INSERM UMR‐1037, Cancer Research Center of Toulouse (CRCT), Team ‘labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer’University of ToulouseToulouseFrance
| | - Christophe Klein
- Centre d'Histologie Imagerie et Cytométrie (CHIC), U1138 Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers (CRC)ParisFrance
| | - Aurélie Perraud
- Department of Digestive SurgeryUniversity Hospital of LimogesLimogesFrance,INSERM UMLR‐1308University of LimogesLimogesFrance
| | - Vinciane Rebours
- INSERM U1149, Centre de Recherche sur l'InflammationParisFrance,Department of PancreatologyBeaujon Hospital (APHP)Clichy‐La‐GarenneFrance
| | - Muriel Mathonnet
- Department of Digestive SurgeryUniversity Hospital of LimogesLimogesFrance,INSERM UMLR‐1308University of LimogesLimogesFrance
| | - Ivan Bièche
- Department of GeneticsInstitut Curie, PSL Research UniversityParisFrance
| | - Hemant Kocher
- Centre for Tumour Biology, Barts Cancer Institute ‐ a CR‐UK Centre of ExcellenceQueen Mary University of LondonLondonUK
| | - Jérôme Cros
- INSERM U1149, Centre de Recherche sur l'InflammationParisFrance,Department of Pathology, Beaujon Hospital (APHP)Université de ParisParisFrance
| | - Corinne Bousquet
- INSERM UMR‐1037, Cancer Research Center of Toulouse (CRCT), Team ‘labellisée Ligue Contre le Cancer’University of ToulouseToulouseFrance
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15
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Dorafshan S, Razmi M, Safaei S, Gentilin E, Madjd Z, Ghods R. Periostin: biology and function in cancer. Cancer Cell Int 2022; 22:315. [PMID: 36224629 PMCID: PMC9555118 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-022-02714-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Periostin (POSTN), a member of the matricellular protein family, is a secreted adhesion-related protein produced in the periosteum and periodontal ligaments. Matricellular proteins are a nonstructural family of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins that regulate a wide range of biological processes in both normal and pathological conditions. Recent studies have demonstrated the key roles of these ECM proteins in the tumor microenvironment. Furthermore, periostin is an essential regulator of bone and tooth formation and maintenance, as well as cardiac development. Also, periostin interacts with multiple cell-surface receptors, especially integrins, and triggers signals that promote tumor growth. According to recent studies, these signals are implicated in cancer cell survival, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), invasion, and metastasis. In this review, we will summarize the most current data regarding periostin, its structure and isoforms, expressions, functions, and regulation in normal and cancerous tissues. Emphasis is placed on its association with cancer progression, and also future potential for periostin-targeted therapeutic approaches will be explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shima Dorafshan
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran.,Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahdieh Razmi
- Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Sadegh Safaei
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran.,Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Erica Gentilin
- Bioacoustics Research Laboratory, Department of Neurosciences, University of Padua, via G. Orus, 2b, 35129, Padua, Italy
| | - Zahra Madjd
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran. .,Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran.
| | - Roya Ghods
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran. .,Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran.
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16
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Deng D, Patel R, Chiang CY, Hou P. Role of the Tumor Microenvironment in Regulating Pancreatic Cancer Therapy Resistance. Cells 2022; 11:cells11192952. [PMID: 36230914 PMCID: PMC9563251 DOI: 10.3390/cells11192952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2022] [Revised: 09/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer has a notoriously poor prognosis, exhibits persistent drug resistance, and lacks a cure. Unique features of the pancreatic tumor microenvironment exacerbate tumorigenesis, metastasis, and therapy resistance. Recent studies emphasize the importance of exploiting cells in the tumor microenvironment to thwart cancers. In this review, we summarize the hallmarks of the multifaceted pancreatic tumor microenvironment, notably pancreatic stellate cells, tumor-associated fibroblasts, macrophages, and neutrophils, in the regulation of chemo-, radio-, immuno-, and targeted therapy resistance in pancreatic cancer. The molecular insight will facilitate the development of novel therapeutics against pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daiyong Deng
- Center for Cell Signaling, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Riya Patel
- Center for Cell Signaling, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Cheng-Yao Chiang
- Center for Cell Signaling, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Pingping Hou
- Center for Cell Signaling, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
- Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08903, USA
- Correspondence:
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17
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Gül D, Schweitzer A, Khamis A, Knauer SK, Ding GB, Freudelsperger L, Karampinis I, Strieth S, Hagemann J, Stauber RH. Impact of Secretion-Active Osteoblast-Specific Factor 2 in Promoting Progression and Metastasis of Head and Neck Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:2337. [PMID: 35565465 PMCID: PMC9106029 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14092337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Treatment success of head and neck cancer (HNC) is still hampered by tumor relapse due to metastases. Our study aimed to identify biomarkers by exploiting transcriptomics profiles of patient-matched metastases, primary tumors, and normal tissue mucosa as well as the TCGA HNC cohort data sets. Analyses identified osteoblast-specific factor 2 (OSF-2) as significantly overexpressed in lymph node metastases and primary tumors compared to normal tissue. High OSF-2 levels correlate with metastatic disease and reduced overall survival of predominantly HPV-negative HNC patients. No significant correlation was observed with tumor localization or therapy response. These findings were supported by the fact that OSF-2 expression was not elevated in cisplatin-resistant HNC cell lines. OSF-2 was strongly expressed in tumor-associated fibroblasts, suggesting a tumor microenvironment-promoting function. Molecular cloning and expression studies of OSF-2 variants from patients identified an evolutionary conserved bona fide protein secretion signal (1MIPFLPMFSLLLLLIVNPINA21). OSF-2 enhanced cell migration and cellular survival under stress conditions, which could be mimicked by the extracellular administration of recombinant protein. Here, OSF-2 executes its functions via ß1 integrin, resulting in the phosphorylation of PI3K and activation of the Akt/PKB signaling pathway. Collectively, we suggest OSF-2 as a potential prognostic biomarker and drug target, promoting metastases by supporting the tumor microenvironment and lymph node metastases survival rather than by enhancing primary tumor proliferation or therapy resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Désirée Gül
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Molecular and Cellular Oncology, University Medical Center, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (A.S.); (A.K.); (L.F.); (J.H.)
| | - Andrea Schweitzer
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Molecular and Cellular Oncology, University Medical Center, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (A.S.); (A.K.); (L.F.); (J.H.)
| | - Aya Khamis
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Molecular and Cellular Oncology, University Medical Center, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (A.S.); (A.K.); (L.F.); (J.H.)
- Oral Pathology Department, Faculty of Dentistry, Alexandria University, El Azareta, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Shirley K. Knauer
- Institute for Molecular Biology, Centre for Medical Biotechnology (ZMB), University Duisburg-Essen, Universitätsstraße, 45117 Essen, Germany;
| | - Guo-Bin Ding
- Institute of Biotechnology, The Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China;
| | - Laura Freudelsperger
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Molecular and Cellular Oncology, University Medical Center, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (A.S.); (A.K.); (L.F.); (J.H.)
| | - Ioannis Karampinis
- Academic Thoracic Center, University Medical Center Mainz, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, 55131 Mainz, Germany;
| | - Sebastian Strieth
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Medical Center Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany;
| | - Jan Hagemann
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Molecular and Cellular Oncology, University Medical Center, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (A.S.); (A.K.); (L.F.); (J.H.)
| | - Roland H. Stauber
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Molecular and Cellular Oncology, University Medical Center, 55131 Mainz, Germany; (A.S.); (A.K.); (L.F.); (J.H.)
- Institute of Biotechnology, The Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering of Ministry of Education, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China;
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18
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Gopinath P, Natarajan A, Sathyanarayanan A, Veluswami S, Gopisetty G. The multifaceted role of Matricellular Proteins in health and cancer, as biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Gene 2022; 815:146137. [PMID: 35007686 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2021.146137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) is composed of a mesh of proteins, proteoglycans, growth factors, and other secretory components. It constitutes the tumor microenvironment along with the endothelial cells, cancer-associated fibroblasts, adipocytes, and immune cells. The proteins of ECM can be functionally classified as adhesive proteins and matricellular proteins (MCP). In the tumor milieu, the ECM plays a major role in tumorigenesis and therapeutic resistance. The current review encompasses thrombospondins, osteonectin, osteopontin, tenascin C, periostin, the CCN family, laminin, biglycan, decorin, mimecan, and galectins. The matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are also discussed as they are an integral part of the ECM with versatile functions in the tumor stroma. In this review, the role of these proteins in tumor initiation, growth, invasion and metastasis have been highlighted, with emphasis on their contribution to tumor therapeutic resistance. Further, their potential as biomarkers and therapeutic targets based on existing evidence are discussed. Owing to the recent advancements in protein targeting, the possibility of agents to modulate MCPs in cancer as therapeutic options are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prarthana Gopinath
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Cancer Institute WIA, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Aparna Natarajan
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Cancer Institute WIA, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | | | - Sridevi Veluswami
- Deaprtment of Surgical Oncology, Cancer Institute (WIA), Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Gopal Gopisetty
- Department of Molecular Oncology, Cancer Institute WIA, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
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19
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Sánchez-Ramírez D, Medrano-Guzmán R, Candanedo-González F, De Anda-González J, García-Rios LE, Pérez-Koldenkova V, Gutiérrez-de la Barrera M, Rodríguez-Enríquez S, Velasco-Velázquez M, Pacheco-Velázquez SC, Piña-Sánchez P, Mayani H, Gómez-Delgado A, Monroy-García A, Martínez-Lara AK, Montesinos JJ. High expression of both desmoplastic stroma and epithelial to mesenchymal transition markers associate with shorter survival in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma. Eur J Histochem 2022; 66. [PMID: 35174683 PMCID: PMC8883614 DOI: 10.4081/ejh.2022.3360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Desmoplastic stroma (DS) and the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) play a key role in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) progression. To date, however, the combined expression of DS and EMT markers, and their association with variations in survival within each clinical stage and degree of tumor differentiation is unknown. The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between expression of DS and EMT markers and survival variability in patients diagnosed with PDAC. We examined the expression levels of DS markers alpha smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), fibronectin, and vimentin, and the EMT markers epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EPCAM), pan-cytokeratin, and vimentin, by immunohistochemistry using a tissue microarray in a retrospective cohort of 25 patients with PDAC. The results were examined for association with survival by clinical stage and by degree of tumor differentiation. High expression of DS markers -α-SMA, fibronectin, and vimentin- was associated with decreased survival at intermediate and advanced clinical stages (p=0.006-0.03), as well as with both poorly and moderately differentiated tumor grades (p=0.01-0.02). Interestingly, the same pattern was observed for EMT markers, i.e., EPCAM, pan-cytokeratin, and vimentin (p=0.00008-0.03). High expression of DS and EMT markers within each clinical stage and degree of tumor differentiation was associated with lower PDAC survival. Evaluation of these markers may have a prognostic impact on survival time variation in patients with PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damián Sánchez-Ramírez
- Mesenchymal Stem Cells Laboratory, Oncology Research Unit, Oncology Hospital, National Medical Center, IMSS, Mexico City.
| | - Rafael Medrano-Guzmán
- Department of Sarcomas, Oncology Hospital, High Specialty Medical Unit (UMAE), National Medical Center, IMSS, Mexico City.
| | - Fernando Candanedo-González
- Department of Pathology, Oncology Hospital, High Specialty Medical Unit (UMAE), National Medical Center, IMSS, Mexico City.
| | - Jazmín De Anda-González
- Department of Pathology, Oncology Hospital, High Specialty Medical Unit (UMAE), National Medical Center, IMSS, Mexico City.
| | - Luis Enrique García-Rios
- Department of Sarcomas, Oncology Hospital, High Specialty Medical Unit (UMAE), National Medical Center, IMSS, Mexico City.
| | - Vadim Pérez-Koldenkova
- National Laboratory of Advanced Microscopy-IMSS, National Medical Center, Siglo XXI IMSS, Mexico City.
| | | | | | - Marco Velasco-Velázquez
- Department of Pharmacology and Peripheral Research Unit in Translational Biomedicine (CMN 20 de noviembre, ISSSTE), School of Medicine, UNAM, Mexico City.
| | | | - Patricia Piña-Sánchez
- Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Oncology Research Unit, Oncology Hospital, National Medical Center, IMSS, Mexico City.
| | - Héctor Mayani
- Hematopoietic Stem Cells Laboratory, Oncology Research Unit, Oncology Hospital, National Medical Center, IMSS, Mexico City.
| | - Alejandro Gómez-Delgado
- Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Medical Research Unit, Pediatric Hospital, National Medical Center, IMSS, Mexico City.
| | - Alberto Monroy-García
- Immunology and Cancer Laboratory, Oncology Research Unit, Oncology Hospital, National Medical Center (IMSS), Mexico City.
| | - Ana Karen Martínez-Lara
- Mesenchymal Stem Cells Laboratory, Oncology Research Unit, Oncology Hospital, National Medical Center, IMSS, Mexico City.
| | - Juan José Montesinos
- Mesenchymal Stem Cells Laboratory, Oncology Research Unit, Oncology Hospital, National Medical Center, IMSS, Mexico City.
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20
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Opitz FV, Haeberle L, Daum A, Esposito I. Tumor Microenvironment in Pancreatic Intraepithelial Neoplasia. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13246188. [PMID: 34944807 PMCID: PMC8699458 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13246188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a very aggressive neoplasm with a poor survival rate. This is mainly due to late detection, which substantially limits therapy options. A better understanding of the early phases of pancreatic carcinogenesis is fundamental for improving patient prognosis in the future. In this article, we focused on the tumor microenvironment (TME), which provides the biological niche for the development of PDAC from its most common precursor lesions, PanIN (pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasias). Abstract Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the most aggressive tumors with a poor prognosis. A characteristic of PDAC is the formation of an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) that facilitates bypassing of the immune surveillance. The TME consists of a desmoplastic stroma, largely composed of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), immunosuppressive immune cells, immunoregulatory soluble factors, neural network cells, and endothelial cells with complex interactions. PDAC develops from various precursor lesions such as pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PanIN), intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMN), mucinous cystic neoplasms (MCN), and possibly, atypical flat lesions (AFL). In this review, we focus on the composition of the TME in PanINs to reveal detailed insights into the complex restructuring of the TME at early time points in PDAC progression and to explore ways of modifying the TME to slow or even halt tumor progression.
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21
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Zhou T, Tan L, Gui Y, Zhang J, Chen X, Dai M, Xiao M, Zhang Q, Chang X, Xu Q, Bai C, Cheng Y, Xu Q, Wang X, Meng H, Jia W, Lv K, Jiang Y. Correlation Between Enhancement Patterns on Transabdominal Ultrasound and Survival for Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma. Cancer Manag Res 2021; 13:6823-6832. [PMID: 34512022 PMCID: PMC8418377 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s307079] [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: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Investigate the CEUS enhancement patterns of PDAC and analyse correlations between the CEUS enhancement pattern and both the degree of tumour tissue differentiation and overall survival (OS). Methods The study included 56 patients with locally advanced PDAC, performed conventional ultrasound and CEUS, and analysed characteristics of the CEUS enhancement patterns. In addition, clinical data, such as serum level of CA19-9, TNM stage were collected, and patients’ survival times were followed up. TICs of dynamic CEUS images were acquired using image processing software to obtain the peak, TP, sharpness, and AUC. Correlations of the CEUS enhancement patterns of PDAC with the degree of differentiation of tumour tissue and OS were quantitatively analysed, as were the correlations of the TIC parameters and CEUS enhancement patterns with OS. Results Enhancement in the arterial phase included iso-enhancement (30.3%) and hypo-enhancement (69.6%), and was not significantly correlated with sex, age at disease onset, or lesion size. Also was not significantly correlated with tumour tissue differentiation. Clear survival times were obtained for 50 patients during follow-up, and the median survival time was significantly longer for the patients with iso-enhancement than hypo-enhancement. Among the TIC parameters, peaktumour, sharpnesstumour, AEsharpness, and REsharpness differed significantly between the group with iso-enhancement and hypo-enhancement (p < 0.05). Conclusion The CEUS enhancement patterns of PDAC in the arterial phase include iso-enhancement and hypo-enhancement. Enhancement pattern was not significantly correlated with the degree of differentiation of tumour tissue, but patient survival time differed significantly between the two enhancement patterns, with longer survival for patients with iso-enhancement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tongtong Zhou
- Department of Ultrasound, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China.,Department of Ultrasound, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Tan
- Department of Ultrasound, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yang Gui
- Department of Ultrasound, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Ultrasound, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xueqi Chen
- Department of Ultrasound, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Menghua Dai
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Mengsu Xiao
- Department of Ultrasound, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Qing Zhang
- Department of Ultrasound, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoyan Chang
- Department of Pathology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Qun Xu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Chunmei Bai
- Department of Medical Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuejuan Cheng
- Department of Medical Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiang Xu
- Department of General Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xue Wang
- Key Laboratory of Endocrinology of National Health Commission, Department of Endocrinology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Hua Meng
- Department of Ultrasound, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Wanying Jia
- Department of Ultrasound, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Ke Lv
- Department of Ultrasound, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuxin Jiang
- Department of Ultrasound, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
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22
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Sagara A, Nakata K, Matsumoto S, Guan W, Shinkawa T, Iwamoto C, Ikenaga N, Ohuchida K, Nakamura M. Repositioning of duloxetine to target pancreatic stellate cells. Oncol Lett 2021; 22:744. [PMID: 34466156 PMCID: PMC8387862 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2021.13005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer cells (PCCs) are surrounded by an abundant stroma, which is produced by pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs). PSCs promote tumor cell proliferation and invasion. The objective of the current study was to identify compounds that suppress PSC activation. Gene expression profiles of cancer-derived fibroblasts and normal fibroblasts were used, and the pathway analysis suggested altered pathways that were chosen for validation. It was found that the ‘neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction’ pathway from the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis was one of the altered pathways. Several compounds related with this pathway were chosen, and changes in PSC activity were investigated using fluorescence staining of lipid droplets, reverse transcription-quantitative PCR, western blotting, and invasion and migration assays. Among these candidates, duloxetine, a serotonin-noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor, was found to suppress PSC activation and disrupt tumor-stromal interaction. Thus, duloxetine may be a potential drug for suppressing PSC activation and pancreatic cancer growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akiko Sagara
- Department of Surgery and Oncology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Kohei Nakata
- Department of Surgery and Oncology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Sokichi Matsumoto
- Department of Surgery and Oncology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Weiyu Guan
- Department of Surgery and Oncology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Tomohiko Shinkawa
- Department of Surgery and Oncology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Chika Iwamoto
- Department of Surgery and Oncology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Naoki Ikenaga
- Department of Surgery and Oncology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Kenoki Ohuchida
- Department of Surgery and Oncology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Masafumi Nakamura
- Department of Surgery and Oncology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
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23
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Xiao H, Zhang Y, Li Z, Liu B, Cui D, Liu F, Chen D, Liu Y, Ouyang G. Periostin deficiency reduces diethylnitrosamine-induced liver cancer in mice by decreasing hepatic stellate cell activation and cancer cell proliferation. J Pathol 2021; 255:212-223. [PMID: 34228359 DOI: 10.1002/path.5756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Revised: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Periostin is a critical extracellular regulator in the pathogenesis of liver disorders such as hepatosteatosis, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, inflammation, and fibrosis. Periostin is also involved in the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the molecular mechanisms of periostin in hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation and tumor cell proliferation in the pathogenesis of HCC remain largely unknown. We demonstrate that periostin is markedly upregulated in diethylnitrosamine (DEN)-induced mouse HCC tissues and that periostin knockout impairs DEN-induced HCC development. Periostin is predominantly derived from activated HSCs and periostin deficiency in HSCs impairs HSC activation and inhibits HSC-promoted HCC cell proliferation in vitro and tumor growth in vivo. Mechanistically, periostin promotes HSC activation through the integrin-FAK-STAT3-periostin pathway and augments HCC cell proliferation by activating ERK. There are positive correlations between periostin and HSC activation and cell proliferation in HCC clinical samples. Collectively, our findings demonstrate that HSC-derived periostin promotes HCC development by enhancing HSC activation through an autocrine periostin-integrin-FAK-STAT3-periostin circuit and by augmenting HCC cell proliferation via the ERK pathway in a paracrine manner. Thus, periostin is a multifaceted extracellular regulator in the development of HCC. © 2021 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongjun Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, PR China
| | - Yezhen Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, PR China
| | - Zhaofeng Li
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, PR China
| | - Bin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, PR China
| | - Dan Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, PR China
| | - Fan Liu
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, PR China
| | - Dafan Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Yingfu Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, PR China.,Department of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, PR China
| | - Gaoliang Ouyang
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, PR China
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24
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Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: Relating Biomechanics and Prognosis. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10122711. [PMID: 34205335 PMCID: PMC8234178 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10122711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 06/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the most common form of pancreatic cancer and carries a dismal prognosis. Resectable patients are treated predominantly with surgery while borderline resectable patients may receive neoadjuvant treatment (NAT) to downstage their disease prior to possible resection. PDAC tissue is stiffer than healthy pancreas, and tissue stiffness is associated with cancer progression. Another feature of PDAC is increased tissue heterogeneity. We postulate that tumour stiffness and heterogeneity may be used alongside currently employed diagnostics to better predict prognosis and response to treatment. In this review we summarise the biomechanical changes observed in PDAC, explore the factors behind these changes and describe the clinical consequences. We identify methods available for assessing PDAC biomechanics ex vivo and in vivo, outlining the relative merits of each. Finally, we discuss the potential use of radiological imaging for prognostic use.
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25
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Wu F, Yang J, Liu J, Wang Y, Mu J, Zeng Q, Deng S, Zhou H. Signaling pathways in cancer-associated fibroblasts and targeted therapy for cancer. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2021; 6:218. [PMID: 34108441 PMCID: PMC8190181 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-021-00641-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 251] [Impact Index Per Article: 83.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
To flourish, cancers greatly depend on their surrounding tumor microenvironment (TME), and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in TME are critical for cancer occurrence and progression because of their versatile roles in extracellular matrix remodeling, maintenance of stemness, blood vessel formation, modulation of tumor metabolism, immune response, and promotion of cancer cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and therapeutic resistance. CAFs are highly heterogeneous stromal cells and their crosstalk with cancer cells is mediated by a complex and intricate signaling network consisting of transforming growth factor-beta, phosphoinositide 3-kinase/AKT/mammalian target of rapamycin, mitogen-activated protein kinase, Wnt, Janus kinase/signal transducers and activators of transcription, epidermal growth factor receptor, Hippo, and nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells, etc., signaling pathways. These signals in CAFs exhibit their own special characteristics during the cancer progression and have the potential to be targeted for anticancer therapy. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of these signaling cascades in interactions between cancer cells and CAFs is necessary to fully realize the pivotal roles of CAFs in cancers. Herein, in this review, we will summarize the enormous amounts of findings on the signals mediating crosstalk of CAFs with cancer cells and its related targets or trials. Further, we hypothesize three potential targeting strategies, including, namely, epithelial-mesenchymal common targets, sequential target perturbation, and crosstalk-directed signaling targets, paving the way for CAF-directed or host cell-directed antitumor therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanglong Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Jin Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Junjiang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Ye Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingtian Mu
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Qingxiang Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuzhi Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongmei Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, National Center of Stomatology, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China.
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26
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Dzobo K, Dandara C. Architecture of Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts in Tumor Microenvironment: Mapping Their Origins, Heterogeneity, and Role in Cancer Therapy Resistance. OMICS-A JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE BIOLOGY 2021; 24:314-339. [PMID: 32496970 DOI: 10.1089/omi.2020.0023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The tumor stroma, a key component of the tumor microenvironment (TME), is a key determinant of response and resistance to cancer treatment. The stromal cells, extracellular matrix (ECM), and blood vessels influence cancer cell response to therapy and play key roles in tumor relapse and therapeutic outcomes. Of the stromal cells present in the TME, much attention has been given to cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) as they are the most abundant and important in cancer initiation, progression, and therapy resistance. Besides releasing several factors, CAFs also synthesize the ECM, a key component of the tumor stroma. In this expert review, we examine the role of CAFs in the regulation of tumor cell behavior and reveal how CAF-derived factors and signaling influence tumor cell heterogeneity and development of novel strategies to combat cancer. Importantly, CAFs display both phenotypic and functional heterogeneity, with significant ramifications on CAF-directed therapies. Principal anti-cancer therapies targeting CAFs take the form of: (1) CAFs' ablation through use of immunotherapies, (2) re-education of CAFs to normalize the cells, (3) cellular therapies involving CAFs delivering drugs such as oncolytic adenoviruses, and (4) stromal depletion via targeting the ECM and its related signaling. The CAFs' heterogeneity could be a result of different cellular origins and the cancer-specific tumor microenvironmental effects, underscoring the need for further multiomics and biochemical studies on CAFs and the subsets. Lastly, we present recent advances in therapeutic targeting of CAFs and the success of such endeavors or their lack thereof. We recommend that to advance global public health and personalized medicine, treatments in the oncology clinic should be combinatorial in nature, strategically targeting both cancer cells and stromal cells, and their interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Dzobo
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Cape Town, South Africa.,Division of Medical Biochemistry, Department of Integrative Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Collet Dandara
- Division of Human Genetics, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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27
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Shiomi A, Kusuhara M, Sugino T, Sugiura T, Ohshima K, Nagashima T, Urakami K, Serizawa M, Saya H, Yamaguchi K. Comprehensive genomic analysis contrasting primary colorectal cancer and matched liver metastases. Oncol Lett 2021; 21:466. [PMID: 33907576 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2021.12727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have revealed that colorectal cancer (CRC) displays intratumor genetic heterogeneity, and that the cancer microenvironment plays an important role in the proliferation, invasion and metastasis of CRC. The present study performed genomic analysis on paired primary CRC and synchronous colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM) tissues collected from 22 patients using whole-exome sequencing, cancer gene panels and microarray gene expression profiling. In addition, immunohistochemical analysis was used to confirm the protein expression levels of genes identified as highly expressed in CRLM by DNA microarray analysis. The present study identified 10 genes that were highly expressed in CRLM compared with in CRC, from 36,022 probes obtained from primary CRC, CRLM and normal liver tissues by gene expression analysis with DNA microarrays. Of the 10 genes identified, five were classified as encoding 'matricellular proteins' [(osteopontin, periostin, thrombospondin-2, matrix Gla protein (MGP) and glycoprotein nonmetastatic melanoma protein B (GPNMB)] and were selected for immunohistochemical analysis. Osteopontin was strongly expressed in CRLM (6 of 22 cases: 27.3%), but not in CRC (0 of 22: 0%; P=0.02). Periostin also exhibited strong immunoreactivity in CRLM (17 of 22: 68.2%) compared with in CRC (7 of 22: 31.8%; P=0.006). Thrombospondin-2 exhibited strong immunoreactivity in both CRC and CRLM (54.5% in CRC, 45.5% in CRLM; P=0.55). GPNMB and MGP were rarely positive for both CRC and CRLM. A comparison of immunoreactive positive factors for these five genes revealed the complexities of gene expression in CRLM. Of the cases examined, 16 (72.7%) cases of CRC showed zero or only one positive immunoreactive factor. By contrast, CRLM showed more frequent and multiple immunoreactive factors; for example, 16 cases (72.7%) shared two or more factors, which was statistically more frequent than in CRC (P=0.007). The present study revealed the genomic heterogeneity between paired primary CRC and CRLM, in terms of cancer cell microenvironment. This finding may lead to novel diagnostic and therapeutic targets in the era of genome-guided personalized cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akio Shiomi
- Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Shizuoka Cancer Center, Shizuoka 411-8777, Japan.,Division of Gene Regulation Institute for Advanced Medical Research, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo 160-858, Japan
| | - Masatoshi Kusuhara
- Regional Resources Division, Shizuoka Cancer Center Research Institute, Shizuoka 411-8777, Japan
| | - Takashi Sugino
- Division of Pathology, Shizuoka Cancer Center, Shizuoka 411-8777, Japan
| | - Teiichi Sugiura
- Division of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Shizuoka Cancer Center, Shizuoka 411-8777, Japan
| | - Keiichi Ohshima
- Medical Genetics Division, Shizuoka Cancer Center Research Institute, Shizuoka 411-8777, Japan
| | - Takeshi Nagashima
- Cancer Diagnostics Research Division, Shizuoka Cancer Center Research Institute, Shizuoka 411-8777, Japan.,SRL, Inc., Tokyo 163-0409, Japan
| | - Kenichi Urakami
- Cancer Diagnostics Research Division, Shizuoka Cancer Center Research Institute, Shizuoka 411-8777, Japan
| | - Masakuni Serizawa
- Drug Discovery and Development Division, Shizuoka Cancer Center Research Institute, Shizuoka 411-8777, Japan
| | - Hideyuki Saya
- Division of Gene Regulation Institute for Advanced Medical Research, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo 160-858, Japan
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Extracellular matrix-related genes play an important role in the progression of NMIBC to MIBC: a bioinformatics analysis study. Biosci Rep 2021; 40:224101. [PMID: 32391563 PMCID: PMC7251326 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20194192] [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: 12/10/2019] [Revised: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Bladder cancer is the 11th most common cancer in the world. Bladder cancer can be roughly divided into muscle invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) and non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). The aim of the present study was to identify the key genes and pathways associated with the progression of NMIBC to MIBC and to further analyze its molecular mechanism and prognostic significance. We analyzed microarray data of NMIBC and MIBC gene expression datasets (GSE31684) listed in the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. After the dataset was analyzed using R software, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of NMIBC and MIBC were identified. These DEGs were analyzed using Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment, KOBAS-Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis, and protein-protein interaction (PPI) analysis. The effect of these hub genes on the survival of bladder cancer patients was analyzed in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. A total of 389 DEGs were obtained, of which 270 were up-regulated and 119 down-regulated. GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis revealed that DEGs were mainly involved in the pathway of protein digestion and absorption, extracellular matrix (ECM) receiver interaction, phantom, toll-like receptor (TLR) signaling pathway, focal adhesion, NF-κB signaling pathway, PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, and other signaling pathways. Top five hub genes COL1A2, COL3A1, COL5A1, POSTN, and COL12A1 may be involved in the development of MIBC. These results may provide us with a further understanding of the occurrence and development of MIBC, as well as new targets for the diagnosis and treatment of MIBC in the future.
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29
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Domen A, Quatannens D, Zanivan S, Deben C, Van Audenaerde J, Smits E, Wouters A, Lardon F, Roeyen G, Verhoeven Y, Janssens A, Vandamme T, van Dam P, Peeters M, Prenen H. Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts as a Common Orchestrator of Therapy Resistance in Lung and Pancreatic Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:987. [PMID: 33673405 PMCID: PMC7956441 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13050987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer arises from mutations accruing within cancer cells, but the tumor microenvironment (TME) is believed to be a major, often neglected, factor involved in therapy resistance and disease progression. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are prominent and key components of the TME in most types of solid tumors. Extensive research over the past decade revealed their ability to modulate cancer metastasis, angiogenesis, tumor mechanics, immunosuppression, and drug access through synthesis and remodeling of the extracellular matrix and production of growth factors. Thus, they are considered to impede the response to current clinical cancer therapies. Therefore, targeting CAFs to counteract these protumorigenic effects, and overcome the resistance to current therapeutic options, is an appealing and emerging strategy. In this review, we discuss how CAFs affect prognosis and response to clinical therapy and provide an overview of novel therapies involving CAF-targeting agents in lung and pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Domen
- Center for Oncological Research (CORE), Integrated Personalized and Precision Oncology Network (IPPON), University of Antwerp, B2610 Antwerp, Belgium; (A.D.); (D.Q.); (C.D.); (J.V.A.); (E.S.); (A.W.); (F.L.); (G.R.); (Y.V.); (T.V.); (P.v.D.); (M.P.)
- Department of Oncology, Antwerp University Hospital (UZA), 2650 Edegem, Belgium
| | - Delphine Quatannens
- Center for Oncological Research (CORE), Integrated Personalized and Precision Oncology Network (IPPON), University of Antwerp, B2610 Antwerp, Belgium; (A.D.); (D.Q.); (C.D.); (J.V.A.); (E.S.); (A.W.); (F.L.); (G.R.); (Y.V.); (T.V.); (P.v.D.); (M.P.)
| | - Sara Zanivan
- Cancer Research UK, Beatson Institute, Glasgow G611BD, UK;
- Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G611QH, UK
| | - Christophe Deben
- Center for Oncological Research (CORE), Integrated Personalized and Precision Oncology Network (IPPON), University of Antwerp, B2610 Antwerp, Belgium; (A.D.); (D.Q.); (C.D.); (J.V.A.); (E.S.); (A.W.); (F.L.); (G.R.); (Y.V.); (T.V.); (P.v.D.); (M.P.)
| | - Jonas Van Audenaerde
- Center for Oncological Research (CORE), Integrated Personalized and Precision Oncology Network (IPPON), University of Antwerp, B2610 Antwerp, Belgium; (A.D.); (D.Q.); (C.D.); (J.V.A.); (E.S.); (A.W.); (F.L.); (G.R.); (Y.V.); (T.V.); (P.v.D.); (M.P.)
| | - Evelien Smits
- Center for Oncological Research (CORE), Integrated Personalized and Precision Oncology Network (IPPON), University of Antwerp, B2610 Antwerp, Belgium; (A.D.); (D.Q.); (C.D.); (J.V.A.); (E.S.); (A.W.); (F.L.); (G.R.); (Y.V.); (T.V.); (P.v.D.); (M.P.)
| | - An Wouters
- Center for Oncological Research (CORE), Integrated Personalized and Precision Oncology Network (IPPON), University of Antwerp, B2610 Antwerp, Belgium; (A.D.); (D.Q.); (C.D.); (J.V.A.); (E.S.); (A.W.); (F.L.); (G.R.); (Y.V.); (T.V.); (P.v.D.); (M.P.)
| | - Filip Lardon
- Center for Oncological Research (CORE), Integrated Personalized and Precision Oncology Network (IPPON), University of Antwerp, B2610 Antwerp, Belgium; (A.D.); (D.Q.); (C.D.); (J.V.A.); (E.S.); (A.W.); (F.L.); (G.R.); (Y.V.); (T.V.); (P.v.D.); (M.P.)
| | - Geert Roeyen
- Center for Oncological Research (CORE), Integrated Personalized and Precision Oncology Network (IPPON), University of Antwerp, B2610 Antwerp, Belgium; (A.D.); (D.Q.); (C.D.); (J.V.A.); (E.S.); (A.W.); (F.L.); (G.R.); (Y.V.); (T.V.); (P.v.D.); (M.P.)
- Department of Hepatobiliary Transplantation and Endocrine Surgery, Antwerp University Hospital (UZA), 2650 Edegem, Belgium
| | - Yannick Verhoeven
- Center for Oncological Research (CORE), Integrated Personalized and Precision Oncology Network (IPPON), University of Antwerp, B2610 Antwerp, Belgium; (A.D.); (D.Q.); (C.D.); (J.V.A.); (E.S.); (A.W.); (F.L.); (G.R.); (Y.V.); (T.V.); (P.v.D.); (M.P.)
| | - Annelies Janssens
- Department of Pulmonology & Thoracic Oncology, Antwerp University Hospital (UZA), 2650 Edegem, Belgium;
| | - Timon Vandamme
- Center for Oncological Research (CORE), Integrated Personalized and Precision Oncology Network (IPPON), University of Antwerp, B2610 Antwerp, Belgium; (A.D.); (D.Q.); (C.D.); (J.V.A.); (E.S.); (A.W.); (F.L.); (G.R.); (Y.V.); (T.V.); (P.v.D.); (M.P.)
- Department of Oncology, Antwerp University Hospital (UZA), 2650 Edegem, Belgium
| | - Peter van Dam
- Center for Oncological Research (CORE), Integrated Personalized and Precision Oncology Network (IPPON), University of Antwerp, B2610 Antwerp, Belgium; (A.D.); (D.Q.); (C.D.); (J.V.A.); (E.S.); (A.W.); (F.L.); (G.R.); (Y.V.); (T.V.); (P.v.D.); (M.P.)
- Gynaecologic Oncology Unit, Antwerp University Hospital (UZA), 2650 Edegem, Belgium
| | - Marc Peeters
- Center for Oncological Research (CORE), Integrated Personalized and Precision Oncology Network (IPPON), University of Antwerp, B2610 Antwerp, Belgium; (A.D.); (D.Q.); (C.D.); (J.V.A.); (E.S.); (A.W.); (F.L.); (G.R.); (Y.V.); (T.V.); (P.v.D.); (M.P.)
- Department of Oncology, Antwerp University Hospital (UZA), 2650 Edegem, Belgium
| | - Hans Prenen
- Center for Oncological Research (CORE), Integrated Personalized and Precision Oncology Network (IPPON), University of Antwerp, B2610 Antwerp, Belgium; (A.D.); (D.Q.); (C.D.); (J.V.A.); (E.S.); (A.W.); (F.L.); (G.R.); (Y.V.); (T.V.); (P.v.D.); (M.P.)
- Department of Oncology, Antwerp University Hospital (UZA), 2650 Edegem, Belgium
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30
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Stellate Cells Aid Growth-Permissive Metabolic Reprogramming and Promote Gemcitabine Chemoresistance in Pancreatic Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13040601. [PMID: 33546284 PMCID: PMC7913350 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13040601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The great majority, more than 90%, of patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) die within less than five years after detection of the disease, despite recent treatment advances. The poor prognosis is related to late diagnosis, aggressive disease progression, and tumor resistance to conventional chemotherapy. PDAC tumor tissue is characterized by dense fibrosis and poor nutrient availability. A large portion of the tumor is made up of stromal fibroblasts, the pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs), which are known to contribute to tumor progression in several ways. PSCs have been shown to act as an alternate energy source, induce drug resistance, and inhibit drug availability in tumor cells, however, the underlying exact molecular mechanisms remain unknown. In this literature review, we discuss recent available knowledge about the contributions of PSCs to the overall progression of PDAC via changes in tumor metabolism and how this is linked to therapy resistance. Abstract Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), also known as pancreatic cancer (PC), is characterized by an overall poor prognosis and a five-year survival that is less than 10%. Characteristic features of the tumor are the presence of a prominent desmoplastic stromal response, an altered metabolism, and profound resistance to cancer drugs including gemcitabine, the backbone of PDAC chemotherapy. The pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) constitute the major cellular component of PDAC stroma. PSCs are essential for extracellular matrix assembly and form a supportive niche for tumor growth. Various cytokines and growth factors induce activation of PSCs through autocrine and paracrine mechanisms, which in turn promote overall tumor growth and metastasis and induce chemoresistance. To maintain growth and survival in the nutrient-poor, hypoxic environment of PDAC, tumor cells fulfill their high energy demands via several unconventional ways, a process generally referred to as metabolic reprogramming. Accumulating evidence indicates that activated PSCs not only contribute to the therapy-resistant phenotype of PDAC but also act as a nutrient supplier for the tumor cells. However, the precise molecular links between metabolic reprogramming and an acquired therapy resistance in PDAC remain elusive. This review highlights recent findings indicating the importance of PSCs in aiding growth-permissive metabolic reprogramming and gemcitabine chemoresistance in PDAC.
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31
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Sciumè GD, Visaggi P, Sostilio A, Tarducci L, Pugno C, Frazzoni M, Ricchiuti A, Bellini M, Giannini EG, Marchi S, Savarino V, de Bortoli N. Eosinophilic esophagitis: novel concepts regarding pathogenesis and clinical manifestations. Minerva Gastroenterol (Torino) 2021; 68:23-39. [PMID: 33435660 DOI: 10.23736/s2724-5985.20.02807-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Eosinophilic esophagitis is a chronic disease whose incidence and prevalence are increasing, based on a genetic-driven interaction between environment and immune system. Several gene loci involved in the development of the disease have been identified. A two-step mechanism has been hypothesized: a thymic stromal lymphopoietin-induced allergic sensitization followed by upregulation of CAPN14-related esophageal-specific pathways. Environment seems to have a larger effect than genetic variants. Factors that could play a role are allergens, drugs, colonizing bacteria and possibly Helicobacter Pylori infection. Acting on these modifiable risk factors may be a tool to prevent the disease. EoE is characterized by a typical eosinophilic infiltrate limited to the esophageal epithelium, supported by a Th2-mediated immune response, found in other atopic conditions. The key of the pathogenesis is the disfunction of the epithelial barrier which allow the interaction between allergens and inflammatory cells. Eosinophilic-predominant inflammation leads to the typical wall remodeling, histologically characterized by epithelial and smooth muscle hyperplasia, lamina propria fibrosis and neo-angiogenesis. These alterations find their clinical expression in the pattern of symptoms: dysphagia, food impaction, chest pain, heartburn.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giusi D Sciumè
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Pierfrancesco Visaggi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Andrea Sostilio
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Luca Tarducci
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Camilla Pugno
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Marzio Frazzoni
- Digestive Pathophysiology Unit, Baggiovara Hospital, Modena, Italy
| | - Angelo Ricchiuti
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Massimo Bellini
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Edoardo G Giannini
- Gastrointestinal Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Santino Marchi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Savarino
- Gastrointestinal Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Nicola de Bortoli
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy -
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32
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Novak I, Yu H, Magni L, Deshar G. Purinergic Signaling in Pancreas-From Physiology to Therapeutic Strategies in Pancreatic Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E8781. [PMID: 33233631 PMCID: PMC7699721 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21228781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The purinergic signaling has an important role in regulating pancreatic exocrine secretion. The exocrine pancreas is also a site of one of the most serious cancer forms, the pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Here, we explore how the network of purinergic and adenosine receptors, as well as ecto-nucleotidases regulate normal pancreatic cells and various cells within the pancreatic tumor microenvironment. In particular, we focus on the P2X7 receptor, P2Y2 and P2Y12 receptors, as well as A2 receptors and ecto-nucleotidases CD39 and CD73. Recent studies indicate that targeting one or more of these candidates could present new therapeutic approaches to treat pancreatic cancer. In pancreatic cancer, as much as possible of normal pancreatic function should be preserved, and therefore physiology of purinergic signaling in pancreas needs to be considered.
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MESH Headings
- 5'-Nucleotidase/genetics
- 5'-Nucleotidase/immunology
- Animals
- Antibodies, Monoclonal/therapeutic use
- Antineoplastic Agents, Immunological/therapeutic use
- Apyrase/genetics
- Apyrase/immunology
- Carcinoma, Pancreatic Ductal/drug therapy
- Carcinoma, Pancreatic Ductal/genetics
- Carcinoma, Pancreatic Ductal/immunology
- Carcinoma, Pancreatic Ductal/pathology
- Clinical Trials as Topic
- GPI-Linked Proteins/genetics
- GPI-Linked Proteins/immunology
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic/drug effects
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic/immunology
- Humans
- Immunotherapy/methods
- Pancreas/drug effects
- Pancreas/immunology
- Pancreas/pathology
- Pancreatic Neoplasms/drug therapy
- Pancreatic Neoplasms/genetics
- Pancreatic Neoplasms/immunology
- Pancreatic Neoplasms/pathology
- Pancreatic Stellate Cells/drug effects
- Pancreatic Stellate Cells/immunology
- Pancreatic Stellate Cells/pathology
- Receptors, Adenosine A2/genetics
- Receptors, Adenosine A2/immunology
- Receptors, Purinergic P2X7/genetics
- Receptors, Purinergic P2X7/immunology
- Receptors, Purinergic P2Y12/genetics
- Receptors, Purinergic P2Y12/immunology
- Receptors, Purinergic P2Y2/genetics
- Receptors, Purinergic P2Y2/immunology
- Signal Transduction/genetics
- Signal Transduction/immunology
- Tumor Microenvironment/drug effects
- Tumor Microenvironment/genetics
- Tumor Microenvironment/immunology
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivana Novak
- Section for Cell Biology and Physiology, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, 2100 Copenhagen Ø, Denmark; (H.Y.); (L.M.); (G.D.)
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33
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Sueyama T, Kajiwara Y, Mochizuki S, Shimazaki H, Shinto E, Hase K, Ueno H. Periostin as a key molecule defining desmoplastic environment in colorectal cancer. Virchows Arch 2020; 478:865-874. [PMID: 33215229 DOI: 10.1007/s00428-020-02965-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2020] [Revised: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Categorizing desmoplastic reaction (DR) based on the histological findings of cancer-associated fibroblasts is shown to be a promising novel method to predict prognosis of patients with colorectal cancer (CRC). Periostin (POSTN) in cancer-associated stroma is reportedly associated with poor clinical outcomes. Immunohistochemical staining with an anti-POSTN antibody was performed in 73 patients with pStage III CRC (cohort 1). In addition, to evaluate mRNA and protein expression levels of POSTN, we analyzed paired normal and invasive cancer frozen specimens by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis in 41 patients (cohort 2). In cohort 1, according to the DR categorization, 18, 22, and 33 patients were classified as immature, intermediate, and mature, respectively. High immunoreactivity of POSTN was observed 100%, 68.2%, and 27.3%, respectively (p < 0.0001). The 5-year relapse-free survival rates were 56.8% and 82.7% in high and low POSTN expression subgroups, respectively (p = 0.015). In cohort 2, the POSTN mRNA and protein levels were significantly higher in the immature stroma as compared to the stroma characterized as other DR patterns. POSTN expression was closely associated with DR categorization. POSTN may be a key molecule that contributes to the malignant potential of CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takahiro Sueyama
- Department of Surgery, National Defense Medical College, 3-2, Namiki, Tokorozawa, Saitama, 359-8513, Japan
| | - Yoshiki Kajiwara
- Department of Surgery, National Defense Medical College, 3-2, Namiki, Tokorozawa, Saitama, 359-8513, Japan.
| | - Satsuki Mochizuki
- Department of Surgery, National Defense Medical College, 3-2, Namiki, Tokorozawa, Saitama, 359-8513, Japan
| | - Hideyuki Shimazaki
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, National Defense Medical College, Tokorozawa, Japan
| | - Eiji Shinto
- Department of Surgery, National Defense Medical College, 3-2, Namiki, Tokorozawa, Saitama, 359-8513, Japan
| | - Kazuo Hase
- Department of Surgery, National Defense Medical College, 3-2, Namiki, Tokorozawa, Saitama, 359-8513, Japan
| | - Hideki Ueno
- Department of Surgery, National Defense Medical College, 3-2, Namiki, Tokorozawa, Saitama, 359-8513, Japan
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34
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Pirfenidone and Vitamin D Ameliorate Cardiac Fibrosis Induced by Doxorubicin in Ehrlich Ascites Carcinoma Bearing Mice: Modulation of Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein-1 and Jun N-terminal Kinase-1 Pathways. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2020; 13:ph13110348. [PMID: 33126642 PMCID: PMC7693623 DOI: 10.3390/ph13110348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Revised: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Treatment of breast cancer with doxorubicin causes numerous side effects, of which cardiac fibrosis is considered the main one. This study was designed to investigate the underlying molecular mechanisms for the potential anti-fibrotic effect of pirfenidone and vitamin D against doxorubicin-induced cardiac fibrosis. Seventy mice carrying solid Ehrlich’s ascites carcinoma (EAC) discs on the ventral side were treated with orally administered pirfenidone (500 mg/kg) and intraperitoneal injection of vitamin D (0.5 µg/kg) either individually or in combination with a doxorubicin (15 mg/kg; i.p.) single dose. All treatments commenced one week post-tumor inoculation and continued for 14 days. Compared to control EAC mice, the doxorubicin group showed a significant increase in heart and left ventricle weights, troponin T, and creatinine kinase serum levels. Furthermore, the doxorubicin group depicts a high expression of monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP-1), nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1), smad3, Jun N-terminal Kinase-1 (JNK1), and alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA). Treatment with pirfenidone or vitamin D significantly decreased all of these parameters. Furthermore, the expression of smad7 was downregulated by doxorubicin and improved by pirfenidone or vitamin D. Furthermore, all treated groups showed a marked decrease in tumor weight and volume. Current data demonstrate that pirfenidone and vitamin D represent an attractive approach to ameliorate the cardiac fibrosis produced by doxorubicin through inhibiting both JNK1 signaling and MCP-1 inflammatory pathways, thus preserving heart function. Further, this combination demonstrated an anti-tumor effect to combat breast cancer.
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35
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Gorchs L, Ahmed S, Mayer C, Knauf A, Fernández Moro C, Svensson M, Heuchel R, Rangelova E, Bergman P, Kaipe H. The vitamin D analogue calcipotriol promotes an anti-tumorigenic phenotype of human pancreatic CAFs but reduces T cell mediated immunity. Sci Rep 2020; 10:17444. [PMID: 33060625 PMCID: PMC7562723 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-74368-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The pancreatic tumour stroma is composed of phenotypically heterogenous cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) with both pro- and anti-tumorigenic functions. Here, we studied the impact of calcipotriol, a vitamin D3 analogue, on the activation of human pancreatic CAFs and T cells using 2- and 3-dimensional (2D, 3D) cell culture models. We found that calcipotriol decreased CAF proliferation and migration and reduced the release of the pro-tumorigenic factors prostaglandin E2, IL-6, periostin, and leukemia inhibitory factor. However, calcipotriol promoted PD-L1 upregulation, which could influence T cell mediated tumour immune surveillance. Calcipotriol reduced T cell proliferation and production of IFN-γ, granzyme B and IL-17, but increased IL-10 secretion. These effects were even more profound in the presence of CAFs in 2D cultures and in the presence of CAFs and pancreatic tumour cell line (PANC-1) spheroids in 3D cultures. Functional assays on tumour infiltrating lymphocytes also showed a reduction in T cell activation by calcipotriol. This suggests that calcipotriol reduces the tumour supportive activity of CAFs but at the same time reduces T cell effector functions, which could compromise the patients’ tumour immune surveillance. Thus, vitamin D3 analogues appear to have dual functions in the context of pancreatic cancer, which could have important clinical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laia Gorchs
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Sultan Ahmed
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Chanté Mayer
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Alisa Knauf
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Carlos Fernández Moro
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Pathology/Cytology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mattias Svensson
- Department of Medicine, Centre for Infectious Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Rainer Heuchel
- Department of CLINTEC, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Elena Rangelova
- Department of CLINTEC, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Pancreatic Surgery Unit, Centre for Digestive Diseases, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Peter Bergman
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Infectious Disease Clinic, The Immunodeficiency Unit, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Helen Kaipe
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden. .,Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
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36
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Han X, Zhang WH, Wang WQ, Yu XJ, Liu L. Cancer-associated fibroblasts in therapeutic resistance of pancreatic cancer: Present situation, predicaments, and perspectives. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2020; 1874:188444. [PMID: 33031899 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2020.188444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is highly lethal, and the most effective treatment is curative resection followed by chemotherapy. Unfortunately, chemoresistance is an extremely common occurrence, and novel treatment modalities, such as immunotherapy and molecular targeted therapy, have shown limited success in clinical practice. Pancreatic cancer is characterized by an abundant stromal compartment. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and the extracellular matrix they deposit account for a large portion of the pancreatic tumor stroma. CAFs interact directly and indirectly with pancreatic cancer cells and can compromise the effects of, and even promote tumorigenic responses to, various treatment approaches. To eliminate these adverse effects, CAFs depletion strategies were developed. Instead of the anticipated antitumor effects of CAFs depletion, more aggressive tumor phenotypes were occasionally observed. The failure of universal stromal depletion led to the investigation of CAFs heterogeneity that forms the foundation for stromal remodeling and normalization. This review analyzes the role of CAFs in therapeutic resistance of pancreatic cancer and discusses potential CAFs-targeting strategies basing on the diverse biological functions of CAFs, thus to improve the outcome of pancreatic cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Han
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wu-Hu Zhang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wen-Quan Wang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Xian-Jun Yu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Liang Liu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China; Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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37
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Fiorino S, Visani M, Masetti M, Acquaviva G, Tallini G, De Leo A, Fornelli A, Ragazzi M, Vasuri F, Grifoni D, Argento CM, Maloberti T, Ravaioli M, Fabbri C, Jovine E, Pession A, de Biase D. Periostin, tenascin, osteopontin isoforms in long- and non-long survival patients with pancreatic cancer: a pilot study. Mol Biol Rep 2020; 47:8235-8241. [PMID: 32886326 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-020-05763-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the most frequent histological type of malignancy in the pancreas. Extracellular matrix (ECM), plays a critical role during the process of human carcinogenesis and the possible diversity in matricellular proteins composition of ECM may have a significant impact on the clinical course of PDAC. Aim of this paper was to evaluate the expression of three matricellular proteins, including Periostin (POSTN), Tenascin (TNS) and Osteopontin (OPN), in PDAC from long-survival (LS) and non-long survival (NLS) patients. A total of 30 PDAC were analyzed, 15 from patients that survived more than 60 months after surgery (LS) and 15 that died from the disease within 24 (NLS). RNA was extracted and OPN, TNS and POSTN mRNA levels were evaluated by qRT-PCR. LS and NLS samples showed the same type of POSTN and TN isoforms. On the contrary, OPN seems to be preferentially expressed in NLS PDAC. Moreover, OPNb and OPNc isoforms were expressed exclusively in NLS samples. In conclusion, Our data led to hypothesize a possible relationship between the expression of different isoforms of each of these proteins and the clinical outcome of patients with PDAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sirio Fiorino
- Internal Medicine Unit, Budrio Hospital, Azienda USL Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Michela Visani
- Department of Medicine, Dipartimento di Medicina Specialistica, Diagnostica e Sperimentale)-Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Azienda USL di Bologna, University of Bologna School of Medicine, Bologna, Italy
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Dipartimento di Farmacia e Biotecnologie)-Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Azienda USL di Bologna, University of Bologna, Viale Ercolani 4/2, 40139, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Giorgia Acquaviva
- Department of Medicine, Dipartimento di Medicina Specialistica, Diagnostica e Sperimentale)-Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Azienda USL di Bologna, University of Bologna School of Medicine, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giovanni Tallini
- Department of Medicine, Dipartimento di Medicina Specialistica, Diagnostica e Sperimentale)-Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Azienda USL di Bologna, University of Bologna School of Medicine, Bologna, Italy
| | - Antonio De Leo
- Department of Medicine, Dipartimento di Medicina Specialistica, Diagnostica e Sperimentale)-Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Azienda USL di Bologna, University of Bologna School of Medicine, Bologna, Italy
| | - Adele Fornelli
- Anatomic Pathology Unit, Azienda USL-Maggiore Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Moira Ragazzi
- Anatomic Pathology Unit, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova-IRCCS, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Francesco Vasuri
- Anatomic Pathology Unit, "F. Addarii" Institute of Oncology and Transplantation Pathology, S. Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Daniela Grifoni
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Dipartimento di Farmacia e Biotecnologie)-Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Azienda USL di Bologna, University of Bologna, Viale Ercolani 4/2, 40139, Bologna, Italy
| | - Chiara Maria Argento
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Dipartimento di Farmacia e Biotecnologie)-Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Azienda USL di Bologna, University of Bologna, Viale Ercolani 4/2, 40139, Bologna, Italy
| | - Thais Maloberti
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Dipartimento di Farmacia e Biotecnologie)-Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Azienda USL di Bologna, University of Bologna, Viale Ercolani 4/2, 40139, Bologna, Italy
| | - Matteo Ravaioli
- Department of General Surgery and Transplantation, St. Orsola-Malpighi University Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Carlo Fabbri
- Unit of Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy, Forlì-Cesena Hospital, Forlì-Cesena, Italy
| | - Elio Jovine
- Surgery Unit, Azienda USL-Maggiore Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Annalisa Pession
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Dipartimento di Farmacia e Biotecnologie)-Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Azienda USL di Bologna, University of Bologna, Viale Ercolani 4/2, 40139, Bologna, Italy
| | - Dario de Biase
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Dipartimento di Farmacia e Biotecnologie)-Molecular Diagnostic Unit, Azienda USL di Bologna, University of Bologna, Viale Ercolani 4/2, 40139, Bologna, Italy.
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Hessmann E, Buchholz SM, Demir IE, Singh SK, Gress TM, Ellenrieder V, Neesse A. Microenvironmental Determinants of Pancreatic Cancer. Physiol Rev 2020; 100:1707-1751. [DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00042.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) belongs to the most lethal solid tumors in humans. A histological hallmark feature of PDAC is the pronounced tumor microenvironment (TME) that dynamically evolves during tumor progression. The TME consists of different non-neoplastic cells such as cancer-associated fibroblasts, immune cells, endothelial cells, and neurons. Furthermore, abundant extracellular matrix components such as collagen and hyaluronic acid as well as matricellular proteins create a highly dynamic and hypovascular TME with multiple biochemical and physical interactions among the various cellular and acellular components that promote tumor progression and therapeutic resistance. In recent years, intensive research efforts have resulted in a significantly improved understanding of the biology and pathophysiology of the TME in PDAC, and novel stroma-targeted approaches are emerging that may help to improve the devastating prognosis of PDAC patients. However, none of anti-stromal therapies has been approved in patients so far, and there is still a large discrepancy between multiple successful preclinical results and subsequent failure in clinical trials. Furthermore, recent findings suggest that parts of the TME may also possess tumor-restraining properties rendering tailored therapies even more challenging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Hessmann
- Department of Gastroenterology, Gastrointestinal Oncology, and Endocrinology, University Medical Centre Goettingen, Georg August University, Goettingen, Germany; Department of Surgery, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, School of Medicine Munich, Munich, Germany; Sonderforschungsbereich/Collaborative Research Centre 1321 Modeling and Targeting Pancreatic Cancer, Munich, Germany; Deutsches Konsortium für Translationale Krebsforschung (DKTK) Munich Site, Munich, Germany; and
| | - Soeren M. Buchholz
- Department of Gastroenterology, Gastrointestinal Oncology, and Endocrinology, University Medical Centre Goettingen, Georg August University, Goettingen, Germany; Department of Surgery, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, School of Medicine Munich, Munich, Germany; Sonderforschungsbereich/Collaborative Research Centre 1321 Modeling and Targeting Pancreatic Cancer, Munich, Germany; Deutsches Konsortium für Translationale Krebsforschung (DKTK) Munich Site, Munich, Germany; and
| | - Ihsan Ekin Demir
- Department of Gastroenterology, Gastrointestinal Oncology, and Endocrinology, University Medical Centre Goettingen, Georg August University, Goettingen, Germany; Department of Surgery, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, School of Medicine Munich, Munich, Germany; Sonderforschungsbereich/Collaborative Research Centre 1321 Modeling and Targeting Pancreatic Cancer, Munich, Germany; Deutsches Konsortium für Translationale Krebsforschung (DKTK) Munich Site, Munich, Germany; and
| | - Shiv K. Singh
- Department of Gastroenterology, Gastrointestinal Oncology, and Endocrinology, University Medical Centre Goettingen, Georg August University, Goettingen, Germany; Department of Surgery, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, School of Medicine Munich, Munich, Germany; Sonderforschungsbereich/Collaborative Research Centre 1321 Modeling and Targeting Pancreatic Cancer, Munich, Germany; Deutsches Konsortium für Translationale Krebsforschung (DKTK) Munich Site, Munich, Germany; and
| | - Thomas M. Gress
- Department of Gastroenterology, Gastrointestinal Oncology, and Endocrinology, University Medical Centre Goettingen, Georg August University, Goettingen, Germany; Department of Surgery, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, School of Medicine Munich, Munich, Germany; Sonderforschungsbereich/Collaborative Research Centre 1321 Modeling and Targeting Pancreatic Cancer, Munich, Germany; Deutsches Konsortium für Translationale Krebsforschung (DKTK) Munich Site, Munich, Germany; and
| | - Volker Ellenrieder
- Department of Gastroenterology, Gastrointestinal Oncology, and Endocrinology, University Medical Centre Goettingen, Georg August University, Goettingen, Germany; Department of Surgery, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, School of Medicine Munich, Munich, Germany; Sonderforschungsbereich/Collaborative Research Centre 1321 Modeling and Targeting Pancreatic Cancer, Munich, Germany; Deutsches Konsortium für Translationale Krebsforschung (DKTK) Munich Site, Munich, Germany; and
| | - Albrecht Neesse
- Department of Gastroenterology, Gastrointestinal Oncology, and Endocrinology, University Medical Centre Goettingen, Georg August University, Goettingen, Germany; Department of Surgery, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, School of Medicine Munich, Munich, Germany; Sonderforschungsbereich/Collaborative Research Centre 1321 Modeling and Targeting Pancreatic Cancer, Munich, Germany; Deutsches Konsortium für Translationale Krebsforschung (DKTK) Munich Site, Munich, Germany; and
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Prognostic Significance of Stromal Periostin Expression in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21197025. [PMID: 32987711 PMCID: PMC7582720 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21197025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The microenvironment of solid tumours is significant in cancer development and progression. The aim of this study was to determine periostin (POSTN) expression by cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), as well as to assess associations with clinicopathological factors and prognosis. Materials and Methods: Immunohistochemical analysis of POSTN expression was performed on NSCLC (N = 700) and non-malignant lung tissue (NMLT) (N = 110) using tissue microarrays. Laser capture microdissection (LCM) for isolation of stromal and cancer cells of NSCLC was employed, and subsequently, POSTN mRNA expression was detected by real-time PCR. Immunofluorescence reaction and colocalisation analysis were performed by confocal microscopy. Results: Expression of POSTN in CAFs was significantly higher in NSCLC and in the adenocarcinoma (AC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) subtypes compared to NMLT. POSTN expression in CAFs increased with clinical cancer stage, grades (G) of malignancy, and lymph node involvement in NSCLC. Higher POSTN expression in CAFs was an independent prognostic factor for overall survival (OS). LCM confirmed significantly higher POSTN mRNA expression in the stromal cells (CAFs) compared to the lung cancer cells. Conclusions: POSTN produced by CAFs might be crucial for NSCLC progression and can be an independent negative prognostic factor in NSCLC.
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Roife D, Sarcar B, Fleming JB. Stellate Cells in the Tumor Microenvironment. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2020; 1263:67-84. [PMID: 32588324 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-44518-8_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
As tumor microenvironments share many of the same qualities as chronic wounds, attention is turning to the wound-repair cells that support the growth of cancerous cells. Stellate cells are star-shaped cells that were first discovered in the perisinusoidal spaces in the liver and have been found to support wound healing by the secretion of growth factors and extracellular matrix. They have since been also found to serve a similar function in the pancreas. In both organs, the wound-healing process may become dysregulated and lead to pathological fibrosis (also known as cirrhosis in the liver). In recent years there has been increasing attention paid to the role of these cells in tumor formation and progression. They may be a factor in initiating the first steps of carcinogenesis such as with liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma and also contribute to continued tumor growth, invasion, metastasis, evasion of the immune system, and resistance to chemotherapy, in cancers of both the liver and pancreas. In this chapter we aim to review the structure and function of hepatic and pancreatic stellate cells and their contributions to the tumor microenvironment in their respective cancers and also discuss potential new targets for cancer therapy based on our new understanding of these vital components of the tumor stroma.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Roife
- Department of Surgery, University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, Tampa, FL, USA.,Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Bhaswati Sarcar
- Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Jason B Fleming
- Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA.
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41
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Pseudopterosin and O-Methyltylophorinidine Suppress Cell Growth in a 3D Spheroid Co-Culture Model of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma. Bioengineering (Basel) 2020; 7:bioengineering7020057. [PMID: 32545910 PMCID: PMC7357459 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering7020057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Revised: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Current therapies for treating pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) are largely ineffective, with the desmoplastic environment established within these tumors being considered a central issue. We established a 3D spheroid co-culture in vitro model using a PDAC cell line (either PANC-1 or Capan-2), combined with stellate cells freshly isolated from pancreatic tumors (PSC) or hepatic lesions (HSC), and human type I collagen to analyze the efficiency of the chemotherapeutic gemcitabine (GEM) as well as two novel drug candidates derived from natural products: pseudopterosin (PsA-D) and O-methyltylophorinidine (TYLO). Traditional 2D in vitro testing of these agents for cytotoxicity on PANC-1 demonstrated IC50 values of 4.6 (±0.47) nM, 34.02 (±1.35) µM, and 1.99 (±0.13) µM for Tylo, PsA-D, and GEM, respectively; these values were comparable for Capan-2: 5.58 (±1.74) nM, 33.94 (±1.02) µM, and 0.41 (±0.06) µM for Tylo, PsA-D, and GEM, respectively. Importantly, by assessing the extent of viable cells within 3D co-culture spheroids of PANC-1 with PSC or HSC, we could demonstrate a significant lack of efficacy for GEM, while TYLO remained active and PsA-D showed slightly reduced efficacy: GEM in PANC-1/PSC (IC50 = >100 µM) or PANC-1/HSC (IC50 = >100 µM) spheroids, TYLO in PANC-1/PSC (IC50 = 3.57 ± 1.30 nM) or PANC-1/HSC (IC50 = 6.39 ± 2.28 nM) spheroids, and to PsA-D in PANC-1/PSC (IC50 = 54.42 ± 12.79 µM) or PANC-1/HSC (IC50 = 51.75 ± 0.60 µM). Microscopic 3D rendering supported these cytotoxicity outcomes, showing little or no morphological spheroid structure change during this period of rapid cell death. Our results support the use of this 3D spheroid co-culture in vitro model having a desmoplastic microenvironment for the identification of possible novel chemotherapeutic drug candidates for PDAC, such as TYLO and PsA-D.
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Pothula SP, Pirola RC, Wilson JS, Apte MV. Pancreatic stellate cells: Aiding and abetting pancreatic cancer progression. Pancreatology 2020; 20:409-418. [PMID: 31928917 DOI: 10.1016/j.pan.2020.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2019] [Revised: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 01/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Tumour-stromal interactions have now been acknowledged to play a major role in pancreatic cancer (PC) progression. The abundant collagenous stroma is produced by a specific cell type in the pancreas-the pancreatic stellate cell (PSC). Pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) are a unique resident cell type of pancreas and with a critical role in both healthy and diseased pancreas. Accumulating evidence indicates that PSCs interact closely with cancer cells as well as with other cell types of the stroma such as immune cells, endothelial cells and neuronal cells, to set up a growth permissive microenvironment for pancreatic tumours, which facilitates local tumour growth as well as distant metastasis. Consequently, recent work in the field has focused on the development of novel therapeutic approaches targeting the stroma to inhibit PC progression. Such a multi-pronged approach targeting both tumour and stromal elements of PC has been successfully applied in pre-clinical settings. The challenge now is to translate the pre-clinical findings into the clinical setting to achieve better outcomes for pancreatic cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srinivasa P Pothula
- Pancreatic Research Group, South Western Sydney Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, and the Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Liverpool, Australia
| | - Romano C Pirola
- Pancreatic Research Group, South Western Sydney Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, and the Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Liverpool, Australia
| | - Jeremy S Wilson
- Pancreatic Research Group, South Western Sydney Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, and the Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Liverpool, Australia
| | - Minoti V Apte
- Pancreatic Research Group, South Western Sydney Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, and the Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Liverpool, Australia.
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43
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Pausch TM, Aue E, Wirsik NM, Freire Valls A, Shen Y, Radhakrishnan P, Hackert T, Schneider M, Schmidt T. Metastasis-associated fibroblasts promote angiogenesis in metastasized pancreatic cancer via the CXCL8 and the CCL2 axes. Sci Rep 2020; 10:5420. [PMID: 32214219 PMCID: PMC7096431 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-62416-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2019] [Accepted: 03/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The characteristic desmoplastic stroma of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a key contributor to its lethality. This stromal microenvironment is populated by cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) that interact with cancer cells to drive progression and chemo-resistance. Research has focused on CAFs in the primary tumour but not in metastases, calling into question the role of analogous metastasis-associated fibroblasts (MAFs). We infer a role of MAFs in murine hepatic metastases following untargeted treatment with the anti-angiogenic drug sunitinib in vivo. Treated metastases were smaller and had fewer stromal cells, but were able to maintain angiogenesis and metastasis formation in the liver. Furthermore, sunitinib was ineffective at reducing MAFs alongside other stromal cells. We speculate that cancer cells interact with MAFs to maintain angiogenesis and tumour progression. Thus, we tested interactions between metastatic pancreatic cancer cells and fibroblasts using in vitro co-culture systems. Co-cultures enhanced fibroblast proliferation and induced angiogenesis. We identify carcinoma-educated fibroblasts as the source of angiogenesis via secretions of CXCL8 (aka IL-8) and CCL2 (aka MCP-1). Overall, we demonstrate that metastasis-associated fibroblasts have potential as a therapeutic target and highlight the CXCL8 and CCL2 axes for further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas M Pausch
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Elisa Aue
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Naita M Wirsik
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Aida Freire Valls
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ying Shen
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Praveen Radhakrishnan
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Thilo Hackert
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Martin Schneider
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Thomas Schmidt
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany.
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Sahni S, Nahm C, Krisp C, Molloy MP, Mehta S, Maloney S, Itchins M, Pavlakis N, Clarke S, Chan D, Gill AJ, Howell VM, Samra J, Mittal A. Identification of Novel Biomarkers in Pancreatic Tumor Tissue to Predict Response to Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy. Front Oncol 2020; 10:237. [PMID: 32195182 PMCID: PMC7064619 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.00237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2019] [Accepted: 02/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) has been of recent interest as an alternative to upfront surgery followed by adjuvant chemotherapy in patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). However, a subset of patients does not respond to NAC and may have been better managed by upfront surgery. Hence, there is an unmet need for accurate biomarkers for predicting NAC response in PDAC. We aimed to identify upregulated proteins in tumor tissue from poor- and good-NAC responders. Methods: Tumor and adjacent pancreas tissue samples were obtained following surgical resection from NAC-treated PDAC patients. SWATH-MS proteomic analysis was performed to identify and quantify proteins in tissue samples. Statistical analysis was performed to identify biomarkers for NAC response. Pathway analysis was performed to characterize affected canonical pathways in good- and poor-NAC responders. Results: A total of 3,156 proteins were identified, with 19 being were significantly upregulated in poor-responders compared to good-responders (log2 ratio > 2, p < 0.05). Those with the greatest ability to predict poor-NAC response were GRP78, CADM1, PGES2, and RUXF. Notably, canonical pathways that were significantly upregulated in good-responders included acute phase signaling and macrophage activation, indicating a heightened immune response in these patients. Conclusion: A novel biomarker signature for poor-NAC response in PDAC was identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumit Sahni
- Northern Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.,Bill Walsh Translational Cancer Research Laboratory, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.,Australian Pancreatic Centre, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Christopher Nahm
- Northern Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.,Bill Walsh Translational Cancer Research Laboratory, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.,Australian Pancreatic Centre, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Christoph Krisp
- Center for Diagnostics, Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg - Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Mark P Molloy
- Northern Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.,Bowel Cancer and Biomarker Research Laboratory, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, NSW, Australia.,Australian Proteome Analysis Facility (APAF), Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Shreya Mehta
- Northern Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.,Bill Walsh Translational Cancer Research Laboratory, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.,Australian Pancreatic Centre, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Sarah Maloney
- Northern Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.,Bill Walsh Translational Cancer Research Laboratory, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Malinda Itchins
- Northern Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.,Bill Walsh Translational Cancer Research Laboratory, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.,Northern Sydney Cancer Center, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, NSW, Australia.,Northern Cancer Institute, St Leonards and Frenchs Forest, St Leonards, NSW, Australia
| | - Nick Pavlakis
- Northern Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.,Bill Walsh Translational Cancer Research Laboratory, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.,Northern Sydney Cancer Center, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, NSW, Australia.,Northern Cancer Institute, St Leonards and Frenchs Forest, St Leonards, NSW, Australia
| | - Stephen Clarke
- Northern Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.,Bill Walsh Translational Cancer Research Laboratory, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.,Northern Sydney Cancer Center, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, NSW, Australia.,Northern Cancer Institute, St Leonards and Frenchs Forest, St Leonards, NSW, Australia
| | - David Chan
- Northern Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.,Bill Walsh Translational Cancer Research Laboratory, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.,Northern Sydney Cancer Center, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, NSW, Australia.,Northern Cancer Institute, St Leonards and Frenchs Forest, St Leonards, NSW, Australia
| | - Anthony J Gill
- Northern Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.,Cancer Diagnosis and Pathology Group, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, NSW, Australia
| | - Viive M Howell
- Northern Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.,Bill Walsh Translational Cancer Research Laboratory, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Jaswinder Samra
- Northern Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.,Australian Pancreatic Centre, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Upper GI Surgical Unit, Royal North Shore Hospital and North Shore Private Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Anubhav Mittal
- Northern Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.,Australian Pancreatic Centre, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Upper GI Surgical Unit, Royal North Shore Hospital and North Shore Private Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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45
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Piano MA, Brunello A, Cappellesso R, Del Bianco P, Mattiolo A, Fritegotto C, Montini B, Zamuner C, Del Fiore P, Rastrelli M, Sommariva A, De Salvo GL, Montesco MC, Rossi CR, Zagonel V, Calabrò ML. Periostin and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition Score as Novel Prognostic Markers for Leiomyosarcoma, Myxofibrosarcoma, and Undifferentiated Pleomorphic Sarcoma. Clin Cancer Res 2020; 26:2921-2931. [PMID: 32127392 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-19-2297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2019] [Revised: 12/17/2019] [Accepted: 02/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Interpatient clinical variability in soft-tissue sarcomas (STS) highlights the need for novel prognostic markers supporting patient risk stratification. As sarcomas might exhibit a more mesenchymal or a more epithelial state, we focused on epithelial-mesenchymal and mesenchymal-epithelial transitions (EMT/MET) for prognostic clues, and selected three histotypes with variable aggressiveness. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN The expression of EMT/MET-related factors was measured by qRT-PCR in 55 tumor samples from patients with leiomyosarcoma, myxofibrosarcoma, or undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma. The identified marker was further evaluated by IHC in 31 leiomyosarcomas and by measuring its circulating levels in 67 patients. The prognostic value of a sarcoma-tailored EMT score was analyzed. Epirubicin chemosensitivity and migration were studied in primary STS cultures. Associations with overall survival (OS) were assessed using Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression methods. RESULTS High expression of periostin, a mesenchymal matricellular protein, in sarcoma tissues (P = 0.0024), its high stromal accumulation in leiomyosarcomas (P = 0.0075), and increased circulation (>20 ng/mL, P = 0.0008) were associated with reduced OS. High periostin expression [HR 2.9; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.3-6.9; P = 0.0134] and circulation (HR 2.6; 95% CI, 1.3-5.1; P = 0.0086), and a mesenchymal EMT score (mesenchymal vs. transitioning; HR, 5.2; 95% CI, 2.1-13.0, P = 0.0005) were associated with increased risk in multivariable models. An intrinsic or induced mesenchymal state enhanced chemoresistance and migration in sarcoma cell lines. CONCLUSIONS Although limited to a pilot study, these findings suggest that periostin might contribute prognostic information in the three studied STS histotypes. Moreover, a transitioning EMT score measured in the tumor might predict a less active and a more chemosensitive disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Assunta Piano
- Immunology and Molecular Oncology, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | - Antonella Brunello
- Medical Oncology 1, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | - Rocco Cappellesso
- Surgical Pathology and Cytopathology, Department of Medicine, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Paola Del Bianco
- Clinical Trials and Biostatistics, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | - Adriana Mattiolo
- Immunology and Molecular Oncology, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | - Chiara Fritegotto
- Immunology and Molecular Oncology, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | - Barbara Montini
- Immunology and Molecular Oncology, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | - Carolina Zamuner
- Anatomy and Pathological Histology, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | - Paolo Del Fiore
- Surgical Oncology, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | - Marco Rastrelli
- Surgical Oncology, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | - Antonio Sommariva
- Surgical Oncology, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | - Gian Luca De Salvo
- Clinical Trials and Biostatistics, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | | | - Carlo Riccardo Rossi
- Surgical Oncology, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCCS, Padua, Italy.,Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Vittorina Zagonel
- Medical Oncology 1, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | - Maria Luisa Calabrò
- Immunology and Molecular Oncology, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCCS, Padua, Italy.
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46
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Wang K, He H. Pancreatic Tumor Microenvironment. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2020; 1296:243-257. [PMID: 34185297 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-59038-3_15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) microenvironment is a diverse and complex milieu of immune, stromal, and tumor cells and is characterized by a dense stroma, which mediates the interaction between the tumor and the immune system within the tumor microenvironment (TME). The interaction between stromal and tumor cells signals and shapes the immune infiltration of TME. The desmoplastic compartment contains infiltrated immune cells including tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) and large numbers of fibroblasts/myofibroblasts dominated by pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) which contribute to fibrosis. The highly fibrotic stroma with its extensive infiltration of immunosuppressive cells forms the major component of the pro-tumorigenic microenvironment (Laklai et al. Nat Med 22:497-505, 2016, Zhu et al. Cancer Res 74:5057-5069, 2014) provides a barrier to the delivery of cytotoxic agents and limits T-cell access to tumor cells (Feig et al. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 110:20212-20217, 2013, Provenzano et al Cancer Cell 21:418-429, 2012). Activated PSCs reduced infiltration of cytotoxic T cells to the juxtatumoral stroma (immediately adjacent to the tumor epithelial cells) of PDAC (Ene-Obong et al. Gastroenterology 145:1121-1132, 2013). M1 macrophages activate an immune response against tumor, but M2 macrophages are involved in immunosuppression promoting tumor progression (Noy and Pollard Immunity 41:49-61, 2014, Ruffell et al. Trends Immunol 33:119-126, 2012). The desmoplastic stroma is reported to protect tumor cells against chemotherapies, promoting their proliferation and migration. However, experimental depletion of the desmoplastic stroma has led to more aggressive cancers in animal studies (Nielsen et al. World J Gastroenterol 22:2678-2700, 2016). Hence reprogramming rather than simple depletion of the PDAC stroma has the potential for developing new therapeutic strategies for PC treatment. Modulation of PSCs/fibrosis and immune infiltration/inflammation composes the major aspects of TME reprogramming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Wang
- Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Austin Health, Heidelberg, VIC, Australia
| | - Hong He
- Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Austin Health, Heidelberg, VIC, Australia.
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Iwaya H, Hijioka S, Mizuno N, Kuwahara T, Okuno N, Tajika M, Tanaka T, Ishihara M, Hirayama Y, Onishi S, Ito A, Kuraoka N, Matsumoto S, Polmanee P, Shimizu Y, Yatabe Y, Niwa Y, Tamada K, Ido A, Hara K. Usefulness of septal thickness measurement on endoscopic ultrasound as a predictor of malignancy of branched-duct and mixed-type intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm of the pancreas. Dig Endosc 2019; 31:672-681. [PMID: 30920028 DOI: 10.1111/den.13408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2018] [Accepted: 03/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Septal thickness (ST) can predict a malignant branch-duct (BD) and mixed-type intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN) of the pancreas, but its cut-off value has not been established. The aim of the present study was to determine the optimal ST cut-off value to predict malignancy using endoscopic ultrasound (EUS). METHODS We retrospectively identified 200 patients with IPMN, including 132 with BD- and mixed-IPMN, who underwent surgical resection between 1989 and 2017. ST was defined as the septum or lesion wall with the maximum diameter in BD- and mixed-IPMN. The possibility of ST as a malignant predictor was examined, as well as the diagnostic ability of ST combined with mural nodule (MN) height for malignant IPMN. RESULTS Among the 132 IPMN patients, pathological diagnosis was benign in 81 (61.4%) and malignant in 51 (38.6%). Area under the curve for the diagnosis of malignancy using ST was 0.74 for pathological specimens, 0.70 for EUS and 0.56 for computed tomography. Multivariate analysis showed that the odds ratios for ST ≥2.5 mm and MN height ≥5 mm were 3.51 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.55-7.97, P = 0.003] and 3.36 (95% CI, 1.52-7.45, P = 0.003), respectively. CONCLUSIONS Septal thickness was an independent predictive factor similar to MN height for malignant IPMN in a multivariate analysis. The ST on EUS appeared to be the thickness of a fibrotic septum associated with the malignant transformation of IPMN. An ST cut-off value of 2.5 mm might provide an accurate prediction of malignant IPMN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiromichi Iwaya
- Department of Gastroenterology, Aichi Cancer Center Hospital, Aichi, Japan.,Digestive and Lifestyle Diseases, Kagoshima University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima, Japan
| | - Susumu Hijioka
- Department of Gastroenterology, Aichi Cancer Center Hospital, Aichi, Japan.,Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Nobumasa Mizuno
- Department of Gastroenterology, Aichi Cancer Center Hospital, Aichi, Japan
| | - Takamichi Kuwahara
- Department of Gastroenterology, Aichi Cancer Center Hospital, Aichi, Japan
| | - Nozomi Okuno
- Department of Gastroenterology, Aichi Cancer Center Hospital, Aichi, Japan
| | - Masahiro Tajika
- Department of Endoscopy, Aichi Cancer Center Hospital, Aichi, Japan
| | - Tsutomu Tanaka
- Department of Endoscopy, Aichi Cancer Center Hospital, Aichi, Japan
| | - Makoto Ishihara
- Department of Endoscopy, Aichi Cancer Center Hospital, Aichi, Japan
| | - Yutaka Hirayama
- Department of Endoscopy, Aichi Cancer Center Hospital, Aichi, Japan
| | - Sachiyo Onishi
- Department of Endoscopy, Aichi Cancer Center Hospital, Aichi, Japan
| | - Ayako Ito
- Department of Gastroenterology, Aichi Cancer Center Hospital, Aichi, Japan
| | - Naosuke Kuraoka
- Department of Gastroenterology, Aichi Cancer Center Hospital, Aichi, Japan
| | - Shinpei Matsumoto
- Department of Gastroenterology, Aichi Cancer Center Hospital, Aichi, Japan
| | - Petcharee Polmanee
- Department of Gastroenterology, Aichi Cancer Center Hospital, Aichi, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Shimizu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Aichi Cancer Center Hospital, Aichi, Japan
| | - Yasushi Yatabe
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Diagnostics, Aichi Cancer Center Hospital, Aichi, Japan
| | - Yasumasa Niwa
- Department of Endoscopy, Aichi Cancer Center Hospital, Aichi, Japan
| | - Kiichi Tamada
- Department of Gastroenterology, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Akio Ido
- Digestive and Lifestyle Diseases, Kagoshima University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Kagoshima, Japan
| | - Kazuo Hara
- Department of Gastroenterology, Aichi Cancer Center Hospital, Aichi, Japan
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Lafaro KJ, Melstrom LG. The Paradoxical Web of Pancreatic Cancer Tumor Microenvironment. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2019; 189:44-57. [PMID: 30558722 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2018.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2018] [Revised: 08/28/2018] [Accepted: 09/25/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is increasing in incidence and is projected to become the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States. Despite significant advances in understanding the disease, there has been minimal increase in PDAC patient survival. PDAC tumors are unique in the fact that there is significant desmoplasia. This generates a large stromal compartment composed of immune cells, inflammatory cells, growth factors, extracellular matrix, and fibroblasts, comprising the tumor microenvironment (TME), which may represent anywhere from 15% to 85% of the tumor. It has become evident that the TME, including both the stroma and extracellular component, plays an important role in tumor progression and chemoresistance of PDAC. This review will discuss the multiple components of the TME, their specific impact on tumorigenesis, and the multiple therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly J Lafaro
- Department of Surgery, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, California
| | - Laleh G Melstrom
- Department of Surgery, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, California.
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Yang T, Deng Z, Pan Z, Qian Y, Yao W, Wang J. Prognostic value of periostin in multiple solid cancers: A systematic review with meta-analysis. J Cell Physiol 2019; 235:2800-2808. [PMID: 31517399 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.29184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2018] [Accepted: 08/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies have shown that the expression of periostin (POSTN) is significantly correlated with prognosis in multiple solid cancers. However, the function of POSTN in tumorigenesis and its relationship with clinical outcomes have not been systematically summarized and analyzed. Thus, a meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the prognostic pertinence of POSTN in solid cancer. We conducted a systematic search in the PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane library databases, and a total of 10 studies were used to assess the association of POSTN expression and patients' overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS). The hazard ratio (HR) or odds ratio (OR) and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were further calculated to estimate the association between POSTN and relevant clinical parameters of solid cancer patients. The pooled results indicated that POSTN overexpression was associated with poor OS (HR = 2.35, 95% CI = 1.88-2.93, p < .00001) and DFS (HR = 2.70, 95% CI = 2.00-3.65, p < .00001) in a cohort of 993 patients with cancer. Subsequent analyses showed that the positive expression ratio of POSTN was evidently higher in cancer tissues than in normal tissues (OR = 7.44, 95% CI = 3.66-13.95, p < .00001). In addition, subgroup analysis showed that POSTN was related to microvascular invasion (OR = 5.09, 95% CI = 3.07-8.44, p < .00001), tumor differentiation (OR = 2.03, 95% CI = 1.41-2.91, p = .0001), and lymph node metastasis (OR = 3.05, 95% CI = 2.01-4.64, p < .00001). These data showed that POSTN could be a credible prognostic biomarker and a potential therapeutic target in human solid cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Yang
- Department of Biliary and Pancreatic Surgery/Cancer Research Center Affiliated Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Zhengdong Deng
- Department of Biliary and Pancreatic Surgery/Cancer Research Center Affiliated Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Zhongya Pan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yawei Qian
- Department of Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Wei Yao
- Department of Oncology Affiliated Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jianming Wang
- Department of Biliary and Pancreatic Surgery/Cancer Research Center Affiliated Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China.,Affiliated Tianyou Hospital, Wuhan University of Science & Technology, Wuhan, China
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Saini F, Argent RH, Grabowska AM. Sonic Hedgehog Ligand: A Role in Formation of a Mesenchymal Niche in Human Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma. Cells 2019; 8:E424. [PMID: 31072042 PMCID: PMC6563044 DOI: 10.3390/cells8050424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2019] [Revised: 05/05/2019] [Accepted: 05/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is characterised by desmoplasia, thought to support progression and chemotherapeutic resistance. The Hedgehog pathway is known to play an important role in this cancer. While the upregulation of Sonic hedgehog (Shh) in the epithelium of PDAC is known, we investigated its expression in the tumour microenvironment in order to find new targets for new chemotherapeutical approaches. Immunohistochemistry was used for the investigation of Shh and Vimentin in primary human pancreatic tissues. Gene (qRT-PCR) and protein (immunofluorescence) expression of Shh, αSMA (a marker of the mesenchymal phenotype) and periostin (a marker of mesenchymal cells within a mixed population) were investigated in in vitro cell models. Shh expression was significantly upregulated in the stromal and epithelial compartments of poorly-differentiated PDAC samples, with a strong correlation with the amount of stroma present. Characterisation of stromal cells showed that there was expression of Shh ligand in a mixed population comprising αSMA+ myofibroblasts and αSMA- mesenchymal stem cells. Moreover, we demonstrated the interaction between these cell lines by showing a higher rate of mesenchymal cell proliferation and the upregulation of periostin. Therefore, targeting stromal Shh could affect the equilibrium of the tumour microenvironment and its contribution to tumour growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Saini
- Ex Vivo Cancer Pharmacology Centre of Excellence, Cancer Biology, Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK.
| | - Richard H Argent
- Ex Vivo Cancer Pharmacology Centre of Excellence, Cancer Biology, Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK.
| | - Anna M Grabowska
- Ex Vivo Cancer Pharmacology Centre of Excellence, Cancer Biology, Division of Cancer and Stem Cells, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK.
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