1
|
Taher MY, Hassouna E, El Hadidi A, El-aassar O, Fathy Bakosh M, Said Shater M. Serum CYFRA 21-1 and CK19-2G2 as Predictive Biomarkers of Response to Transarterial Chemoembolization in Hepatitis C-related Hepatocellular Carcinoma Among Egyptians: A Prospective Study. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2025; 15:102405. [PMID: 39309220 PMCID: PMC11414665 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2024.102405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 09/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and aim Cytokeratin 19 (CK19)-positive HCC is a subtype of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with poor biological behavior and resistance to different treatments including transarterial chemoembolization (TACE). The current study aimed to investigate the predictive value of serum CK 19 fragment 21-1 (CYFRA 21-1) and serum CK 19 fragment 2G2 (CK 19-2G2) for TACE response in patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related HCC. Methods This prospective study assessed the pretreatment serum CYFRA 21-1 and CK 19-2G2 levels in 64 patients with HCV-related naïve HCC who underwent TACE to predict 1-year overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), and objective response rate (ORR). Additionally, 40 healthy individuals were included as controls. Pretreatment alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) was also measured for comparison. Results After exclusions, 60 patients completed TACE sessions, and the 1-year OS was 52%, and ORR post TACE was 71.8%. HCC patients with elevated levels of CYFRA 21-1, CK 19-2G2, or baseline AFP measuring ≥400 ng/ml have decreased 1-year OS and PFS after TACE. Serum CK19-2G2 was an independent predictor of 1-year OS using multivariate hazard regression analysis. Pretreatment normal serum CYFRA 21-1 levels (P = 0.047), serum AFP measuring <400 ng/ml (P = 0.016), and lower AST (P = 0.002) were independent predictors of ORR to TACE using multivariate logistic regression analysis. The predictive ability of pretreatment elevated serum CYFRA 21-1, AFP measuring ≥400 ng/ml, AFP + CYFRA 21-1, AFP + CK 19-2G2, or AFP + CYFRA 21-1+ CK19-2G2 to predict nonresponse (progressive disease) to TACE (area under the curve = 0.795, 0.690, 0.830, 0.725, and 0.850, respectively). Conclusions This study demonstrated that incorporating the measurement of serum CYFRA 21-1 or CK19-2G2 levels, along with AFP, during the initial diagnosis can aid in predicting poor 1-year OS, PFS, and ORR to TACE in patients with HCV-related HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Y. Taher
- Hepatobiliary Unit, Internal Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Egypt
| | - Ehab Hassouna
- Hepatobiliary Unit, Internal Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Egypt
| | - Abeer El Hadidi
- Clinical and Chemical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Egypt
| | - Omar El-aassar
- Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Fathy Bakosh
- Hepatobiliary Unit, Internal Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Said Shater
- Hepatobiliary Unit, Internal Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Dropmann A, Alex S, Schorn K, Tong C, Caccamo T, Godoy P, Ilkavets I, Liebe R, Gonzalez D, Hengstler JG, Piiper A, Quagliata L, Matter MS, Waidmann O, Finkelmeier F, Feng T, Weiss TS, Rahbari N, Birgin E, Rasbach E, Roessler S, Breuhahn K, Tóth M, Ebert MP, Dooley S, Hammad S, Meindl-Beinker NM. The TGF-β1 target WISP1 is highly expressed in liver cirrhosis and cirrhotic HCC microenvironment and involved in pro- and anti-tumorigenic effects. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2024; 732:150409. [PMID: 39033550 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2024.150409] [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: 05/24/2024] [Revised: 07/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION WNT1-inducible signalling pathway protein 1 (WISP1) promotes progression of several tumor entities often correlating with worse prognosis. Here its expression regulation and role in the progression of chronic liver diseases (CLD) was investigated. METHODS WISP1 expression was analyzed in human HCC datasets, in biopsies and serum samples and an HCC patient tissue microarray (TMA) including correlation to clinicopathological parameters. Spatial distribution of WISP1 expression was determined using RNAscope analysis. Regulation of WISP1 expression was investigated in cytokine-stimulated primary mouse hepatocytes (PMH) by array analysis and qRT-PCR. Outcome of WISP1 stimulation was analyzed by IncuCyte S3-live cell imaging, qRT-PCR, and immunoblotting in murine AML12 cells. RESULTS In a TMA, high WISP1 expression was positively correlated with early HCC stages and male sex. Highest WISP1 expression levels were detected in patients with cirrhosis as compared to healthy individuals, patients with early fibrosis, and non-cirrhotic HCC in liver biopsies, expression datasets and serum samples. WISP1 transcripts were predominantly detected in hepatocytes of cirrhotic rather than tumorous liver tissue. High WISP1 expression was associated with better survival. In PMH, AML12 and HepaRG, WISP1 was identified as a specific TGF-β1 target gene. Accordingly, expression levels of both cytokines positively correlated in human HCC patient samples. WISP1-stimulation induced the expression of Bcl-xL, PCNA and p21 in AML12 cells. CONCLUSIONS WISP1 expression is induced by TGF-β1 in hepatocytes and is associated with cirrhotic liver disease. We propose a crucial role of WISP1 in balancing pro- and anti-tumorigenic effects during premalignant stages of CLD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anne Dropmann
- Department of Medicine II, Section Molecular Hepatology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Sophie Alex
- Department of Medicine II, Section Molecular Hepatology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Katharina Schorn
- Department of Medicine II, Section Molecular Hepatology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Chenhao Tong
- Department of Medicine II, Section Molecular Hepatology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Tiziana Caccamo
- Department of Medicine II, Section Molecular Hepatology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Patricio Godoy
- Department of Medicine II, Section Molecular Hepatology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany; IfADo-Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors, Technical University Dortmund, Ardeystr. 67, 44139, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Iryna Ilkavets
- Department of Medicine II, Section Molecular Hepatology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Roman Liebe
- Department of Medicine II, Section Molecular Hepatology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany; Clinic of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, Otto-von-Guericke-University, Leipziger Straße 44, 39120, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Daniela Gonzalez
- IfADo-Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors, Technical University Dortmund, Ardeystr. 67, 44139, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Jan G Hengstler
- IfADo-Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors, Technical University Dortmund, Ardeystr. 67, 44139, Dortmund, Germany
| | - Albrecht Piiper
- Department of Internal Medicine 1, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60596, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Luca Quagliata
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Basel, Schönbeinstrasse 40, 4031, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Matthias S Matter
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Basel, Schönbeinstrasse 40, 4031, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Oliver Waidmann
- Department of Internal Medicine 1, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60596, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Fabian Finkelmeier
- Department of Internal Medicine 1, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60596, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Teng Feng
- Department of Medicine II, Section Molecular Hepatology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Thomas S Weiss
- Children's University Hospital (KUNO), Center for Liver Cell Research, University Hospital Regensburg, Josef-Engert-Straße 9, 93053, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Nuh Rahbari
- Department of Surgery and European Center of Angioscience (ECAS), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany; Department of General and Visceral Surgery, University Hospital Ulm, Albert-Einstein-Allee 23, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Emrullah Birgin
- Department of Surgery and European Center of Angioscience (ECAS), Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany; Department of General and Visceral Surgery, University Hospital Ulm, Albert-Einstein-Allee 23, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Erik Rasbach
- Department of General and Visceral Surgery, University Hospital Ulm, Albert-Einstein-Allee 23, 89081, Ulm, Germany; Department of Surgery, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Universitätsmedizin Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Stephanie Roessler
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Medical Faculty, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 224, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Kai Breuhahn
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Medical Faculty, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 224, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Marcell Tóth
- Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Medical Faculty, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 224, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Matthias P Ebert
- Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany; DKFZ-Hector Cancer Institute at the University Medical Center, Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany; Molecular Medicine Partnership Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Meyerhofstraße 1, 69117, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Steven Dooley
- Department of Medicine II, Section Molecular Hepatology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Seddik Hammad
- Department of Medicine II, Section Molecular Hepatology, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Nadja M Meindl-Beinker
- Department of Medicine II, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer 1-3, 68167, Mannheim, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Gupta S, Mehra A, Sangwan R. A review on phytochemicals as combating weapon for multidrug resistance in cancer. JOURNAL OF ASIAN NATURAL PRODUCTS RESEARCH 2024:1-19. [PMID: 39121374 DOI: 10.1080/10286020.2024.2386678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2024] [Accepted: 07/28/2024] [Indexed: 08/11/2024]
Abstract
One can recognize multidrug resistance (MDR) and residue as a biggest difficulty in cancer specialist. Chemotherapy-resistant cancer may be successfully treated by combining MDR-reversing phytochemicals with anticancer drugs. Though, clinical application of phytochemicals either alone or in conjunction with chemotherapy is still in its early stages or requires more research to determine their safety and efficacy. In this review we highlighted topics related to MDR in cancer, including an introduction to subject, mechanism of action of efflux pump, specific proteins involved in drug resistance, altered drug targets, increased drug metabolism, and potential role of phytochemicals in overcoming drug resistance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sharwan Gupta
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab 144411, India
| | - Anuradha Mehra
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab 144411, India
| | - Rekha Sangwan
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab 144411, India
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Jiang M, Wu P, Zhang Y, Wang M, Zhang M, Ye Z, Zhang X, Zhang C. Artificial Intelligence-Driven Platform: Unveiling Critical Hepatic Molecular Alterations in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Development. Adv Healthc Mater 2024; 13:e2400291. [PMID: 38657582 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202400291] [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: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Since most Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) typically arises as a consequence of long-term liver damage, the hepatic molecular characteristics are closely related to the occurrence of HCC. Gaining comprehensive information about the location, morphology, and hepatic molecular alterations related to HCC is essential for accurate diagnosis. However, there is a dearth of technological advancements capable of concurrently providing precise HCC diagnosis and discerning the accompanying hepatic molecular alterations. In this study, an integrated information system is developed for the pathological-level diagnosis of HCC and the revelation of critical molecular alterations in the liver. This system utilizes computed tomography/Surface-enhanced Raman scattering combined with an artificial intelligence strategy to establish connections between the occurrence of HCC and alterations in hepatic biomolecules. Employing artificial intelligence techniques, the SERS spectra from both healthy and HCC groups are successfully classified into two distinct categories with a remarkable accuracy rate of 91.38%. Based on molecular profiling, it is identified that the nucleotide-to-lipid signal ratio holds significant potential as a reliable indicator for the occurrence of HCC, thereby serving as a promising tool for prevention and therapeutic surveillance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miao Jiang
- School of Medical Imaging, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300203, China
| | - Pengyun Wu
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, 154 Anshan Ave, Heping, 300052, China
| | - Yuwei Zhang
- Department of Radiology, National Clinical Research Centre of Cancer, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Mengling Wang
- Department of Radiology, National Clinical Research Centre of Cancer, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Mingjie Zhang
- Department of Radiology, National Clinical Research Centre of Cancer, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Zhaoxiang Ye
- Department of Radiology, National Clinical Research Centre of Cancer, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China
| | - Xuejun Zhang
- School of Medical Imaging, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300203, China
| | - Cai Zhang
- Department of Radiology, National Clinical Research Centre of Cancer, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, 300060, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Kim JH, Kim YH, Nam HC, Kim CW, Yoo JS, Han JW, Jang JW, Choi JY, Yoon SK, Chun HJ, Oh JS, Kim S, Lee SH, Sung PS. Consistent efficacy of hepatic artery infusion chemotherapy irrespective of PD‑L1 positivity in unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma. Oncol Lett 2024; 28:388. [PMID: 38966587 PMCID: PMC11223005 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2024.14521] [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: 12/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Atezolizumab/bevacizumab is the first line of treatment for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), combining immune checkpoint inhibitor and anti-VEGF monoclonal antibodies. Hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy (HAIC) is administered when the above-described combination fails to confer sufficient clinical benefit. The present study aimed to explore the association between tumor programmed cell death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) positivity and HAIC response. A total of 40 patients with HCC who had undergone HAIC with available biopsy samples obtained between January 2020 and May 2023 were retrospectively enrolled. Tumor response, progression-free survival (PFS), disease control rate (DCR) and overall survival (OS) were evaluated. PD-L1 expression in tumor samples was assessed using a combined positivity score. The response rates of HAIC-treated patients with advanced HCC after failure of atezolizumab/bevacizumab combination therapy were recorded. OS (P=0.9717) and PFS (P=0.4194) did not differ between patients with and without PD-L1 positivity. The objective response rate (P=0.7830) and DCR (P=0.7020) also did not differ based on PD-L1 status. In conclusion, the current findings highlight the consistent efficacy of HAIC, regardless of PD-L1 positivity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ji Hoon Kim
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Uijeongbu St. Mary's Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Uijeongbu, Gyeonggi 11765, Republic of Korea
| | - Young Hoon Kim
- Department of Pathology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee-Chul Nam
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Uijeongbu St. Mary's Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Uijeongbu, Gyeonggi 11765, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang-Wook Kim
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Uijeongbu St. Mary's Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Uijeongbu, Gyeonggi 11765, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Sung Yoo
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Won Han
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong Won Jang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Republic of Korea
| | - Jong Young Choi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Kew Yoon
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Republic of Korea
| | - Ho Jong Chun
- Department of Radiology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Suk Oh
- Department of Radiology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Republic of Korea
| | - Suho Kim
- Department of Radiology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Hak Lee
- Department of Pathology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Republic of Korea
| | - Pil Soo Sung
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Li J, Xu Y, Tan SD, Wang Z. Impact of red blood cell distribution width (RDW) on postoperative outcomes in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients. Medicine (Baltimore) 2024; 103:e38475. [PMID: 38875439 PMCID: PMC11175885 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000038475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2024] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024] Open
Abstract
This study examines the relationship between red blood cell distribution width (RDW) and the prognosis of patients undergoing hepatectomy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Additionally, it explores the potential effect of RDW for the early identification of high-risk patients after surgery, advocating for timely interventions to improve outcomes. A comprehensive literature search was conducted on May 16, 2022, across PubMed (23 studies), Embase (45 studies), the Cochrane Library (1 study), and CNKI (17 studies), resulting in 6 relevant articles after screening. This analysis primarily focused on the postoperative outcomes of patients. Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were pooled to assess prognosis, with survival indicators including overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS). All 6 studies reported on OS, and 2 addressed DFS. A total of 1645 patients from 6 studies were included. The pooled analysis revealed that RDW is an independent prognostic factor for both OS (HR = 1.50, I² = 84%, 95% CI = 1.23-1.77, P < .01) and DFS (HR = 2.06, I² = 15%, 95% CI = 1.51-2.82, P < .01). Patients in the high RDW group exhibited significantly poorer OS and DFS compared to those in the low RDW group. RDW is a prognostic factor for HCC patients after surgery. Elevated RDW levels are associated with a poorer prognosis, adversely affecting both OS and DFS. RDW may serve as a valuable marker for stratifying risk and guiding intervention strategies in the postoperative management of HCC patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jin Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Chongqing Hospital of Jiangsu Province Hospital, The People’s Hospital of Qijiang District, Chongqing, China
| | - Yi Xu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Chongqing Hospital of Jiangsu Province Hospital, The People’s Hospital of Qijiang District, Chongqing, China
| | - Shu-De Tan
- Department of Radiology, Chongqing Hospital of Jiangsu Province Hospital, The People’s Hospital of Qijiang District, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhi Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Chongqing Hospital of Jiangsu Province Hospital, The People’s Hospital of Qijiang District, Chongqing, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Ning J, Ye Y, Shen H, Zhang R, Li H, Song T, Zhang R, Liu P, Chen G, Wang H, Zang F, Li X, Yu J. Macrophage-coated tumor cluster aggravates hepatoma invasion and immunotherapy resistance via generating local immune deprivation. Cell Rep Med 2024; 5:101505. [PMID: 38614095 PMCID: PMC11148514 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2024.101505] [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: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024]
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) represent a promising treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) due to their capacity for abundant lymphocyte infiltration. However, some patients with HCC respond poorly to ICI therapy due to the presence of various immunosuppressive factors in the tumor microenvironment. Our research reveals that a macrophage-coated tumor cluster (MCTC) signifies a unique spatial structural organization in HCC correlating with diminished recurrence-free survival and overall survival in a total of 572 HCC cases from 3 internal cohorts and 2 independent external validation cohorts. Mechanistically, tumor-derived macrophage-associated lectin Mac-2 binding protein (M2BP) induces MCTC formation and traps immunocompetent cells at the edge of MCTCs to induce intratumoral cytotoxic T cell exclusion and local immune deprivation. Blocking M2BP with a Mac-2 antagonist might provide an effective approach to prevent MCTC formation, enhance T cell infiltration, and thereby improve the efficacy of ICI therapy in HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Junya Ning
- Cancer Molecular Diagnostics Core, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin 300060, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin 300060, China; Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, Tianjin Union Medical Center, Tianjin 300121, China
| | - Yingnan Ye
- Cancer Molecular Diagnostics Core, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin 300060, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin 300060, China; Clinical Laboratory, TEDA International Cardiovascular Hospital, Tianjin 300457, China
| | - Hongru Shen
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin 300060, China; Tianjin Cancer Institute, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Runjiao Zhang
- Cancer Molecular Diagnostics Core, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin 300060, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Huikai Li
- Department of Liver Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Tianqiang Song
- Department of Liver Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Rui Zhang
- Cancer Molecular Diagnostics Core, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin 300060, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Pengpeng Liu
- Cancer Molecular Diagnostics Core, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin 300060, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Guidong Chen
- Cancer Molecular Diagnostics Core, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin 300060, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Hailong Wang
- Laboratory of Cancer Cell Biology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Fenglin Zang
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China
| | - Xiangchun Li
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin 300060, China; Tianjin Cancer Institute, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300060, China.
| | - Jinpu Yu
- Cancer Molecular Diagnostics Core, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin 300060, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Immunology and Biotherapy, Tianjin 300060, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin 300060, China.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Ali FEM, Ibrahim IM, Althagafy HS, Hassanein EHM. Role of immunotherapies and stem cell therapy in the management of liver cancer: A comprehensive review. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 132:112011. [PMID: 38581991 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112011] [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: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
Liver cancer (LC) is the sixth most common disease and the third most common cause of cancer-related mortality. The WHO predicts that more than 1 million deaths will occur from LC by 2030. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common form of primary LC. Today, the management of LC involves multiple disciplines, and multimodal therapy is typically selected on an individual basis, considering the intricate interactions between the patient's overall health, the stage of the tumor, and the degree of underlying liver disease. Currently, the treatment of cancers, including LC, has undergone a paradigm shift in the last ten years because of immuno-oncology. To treat HCC, immune therapy approaches have been developed to enhance or cause the body's natural immune response to specifically target tumor cells. In this context, immune checkpoint pathway inhibitors, engineered cytokines, adoptive cell therapy, immune cells modified with chimeric antigen receptors, and therapeutic cancer vaccines have advanced to clinical trials and offered new hope to cancer patients. The outcomes of these treatments are encouraging. Additionally, treatment using stem cells is a new approach for restoring deteriorated tissues because of their strong differentiation potential and capacity to release cytokines that encourage cell division and the formation of blood vessels. Although there is no proof that stem cell therapy works for many types of cancer, preclinical research on stem cells has shown promise in treating HCC. This review provides a recent update regarding the impact of immunotherapy and stem cells in HCC and promising outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fares E M Ali
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Assiut, 71524, Egypt; Michael Sayegh, Faculty of Pharmacy, Aqaba University of Technology, Aqaba 77110, Jordan.
| | - Islam M Ibrahim
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Assiut Branch, Assiut, 71524, Egypt
| | - Hanan S Althagafy
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Jeddah, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Emad H M Hassanein
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Assiut, 71524, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Chava S, Ekmen N, Ferraris P, Aydin Y, Moroz K, Wu T, Thung SN, Dash S. Mechanisms of Sorafenib Resistance in HCC Culture Relate to the Impaired Membrane Expression of Organic Cation Transporter 1 (OCT1). J Hepatocell Carcinoma 2024; 11:839-855. [PMID: 38741679 PMCID: PMC11090194 DOI: 10.2147/jhc.s452152] [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: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Sorafenib, an FDA-approved drug for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) treatment, encounters resistance in many patients. Deciphering the mechanisms underlying sorafenib resistance is crucial for devising alternative strategies to overcome it. Aim This study aimed to investigate sorafenib resistance mechanisms using a diverse panel of HCC cell lines. Methods HCC cell lines were subjected to continuous sorafenib treatment, and stable cell lines (Huh 7.5 and Huh 7PX) exhibiting sustained growth in its presence were isolated. The investigation of drug resistance mechanisms involved a comparative analysis of drug-targeted signal transduction pathways (EGFR/RAF/MEK/ERK/Cyclin D), sorafenib uptake, and membrane expression of the drug uptake transporter. Results HCC cell lines (Huh 7.5 and Huh 7PX) with a higher IC50 (10μM) displayed a more frequent development of sorafenib resistance compared to those with a lower IC50 (2-4.8μM), indicating a potential impact of IC50 variation on initial treatment response. Our findings reveal that activated overexpression of Raf1 kinases and impaired sorafenib uptake, mediated by reduced membrane expression of organic cation transporter-1 (OCT1), contribute to sorafenib resistance in HCC cultures. Stable expression of the drug transporter OCT1 through cDNA transfection or adenoviral delivery of OCT1 mRNA increased sorafenib uptake and successfully overcame sorafenib resistance. Additionally, consistent with sorafenib resistance in HCC cultures, cirrhotic liver-associated human HCC tumors often exhibited impaired membrane expression of OCT1 and OCT3. Conclusion Intrinsic differences among HCC cell clones, affecting sorafenib sensitivity at the expression level of Raf kinases, drug uptake, and OCT1 transporters, were identified. This study underscores the potential of HCC tumor targeted OCT1 expression to enhance sorafenib treatment response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Srinivas Chava
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Tulane University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Nergiz Ekmen
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tulane University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Pauline Ferraris
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Tulane University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Yucel Aydin
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tulane University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Krzysztof Moroz
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Tulane University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Tong Wu
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Tulane University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Swan N Thung
- Department of Pathology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Srikanta Dash
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Tulane University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Tulane University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, USA
- Southeast Louisiana Veterans Health Care System, New Orleans, LA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Üremiş MM, Türköz Y, Üremiş N. Investigation of apoptotic effects of Cucurbitacin D, I, and E mediated by Bax/Bcl-xL, caspase-3/9, and oxidative stress modulators in HepG2 cell line. Drug Dev Res 2024; 85:e22174. [PMID: 38494997 DOI: 10.1002/ddr.22174] [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: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Cucurbitacins, natural compounds highly abundant in the Cucurbitaceae plant family, are characterized by their anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective properties. These compounds have potential as therapeutic agents in the treatment of liver cancer. This study investigated the association of cucurbitacin D, I, and E (CuD, CuI, and CuE) with the caspase cascade, Bcl-2 family, and oxidative stress modulators in the HepG2 cell line. We evaluated the antiproliferative effects of CuD, CuI, and CuE using the MTT assay. We analyzed Annexin V/PI double staining, cell cycle, mitochondrial membrane potential, and wound healing assays at different doses of the three compounds. To examine the modulation of the caspase cascade, we determined the protein and gene expression levels of Bax, Bcl-xL, caspase-3, and caspase-9. We evaluated the total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH), Total, and Native Thiol levels to measure cellular redox status. CuD, CuI, and CuE suppressed the proliferation of HepG2 cells in a dose-dependent manner. The cucurbitacins induced apoptosis by increasing caspase-3, caspase-9, and Bax activity, inhibiting Bcl-xL activation, causing loss of ΔΨm, and suppressing cell migration. Furthermore, cucurbitacins modulated oxidative stress by increasing TOS levels and decreasing SOD, GSH, TAS, and total and native Thiol levels. Our findings suggest that CuD, CuI, and CuE exert apoptotic effects on the hepatocellular carcinoma cell line by regulating Bax/Bcl-xL, caspase-3/9 signaling, and causing intracellular ROS increase in HepG2 cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Muhammed Mehdi Üremiş
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, Inonu University, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Yusuf Türköz
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, Inonu University, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Nuray Üremiş
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, Inonu University, Malatya, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Yang H, Mu W, Yuan S, Yang H, Chang L, Sang X, Gao T, Liang S, Liu X, Fu S, Zhang Z, Liu Y, Zhang N. Self-delivery photothermal-boosted-nanobike multi-overcoming immune escape by photothermal/chemical/immune synergistic therapy against HCC. J Nanobiotechnology 2024; 22:137. [PMID: 38553725 PMCID: PMC10981284 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-024-02399-3] [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: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) combined with antiangiogenic therapy have shown encouraging clinical benefits for the treatment of unresectable or metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Nevertheless, therapeutic efficacy and wide clinical applicability remain a challenge due to "cold" tumors' immunological characteristics. Tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment (TIME) continuously natural force for immune escape by extracellular matrix (ECM) infiltration, tumor angiogenesis, and tumor cell proliferation. Herein, we proposed a novel concept by multi-overcoming immune escape to maximize the ICIs combined with antiangiogenic therapy efficacy against HCC. A self-delivery photothermal-boosted-NanoBike (BPSP) composed of black phosphorus (BP) tandem-augmented anti-PD-L1 mAb plus sorafenib (SF) is meticulously constructed as a triple combination therapy strategy. The simplicity of BPSP's composition, with no additional ingredients added, makes it easy to prepare and presents promising marketing opportunities. (1) NIR-II-activated BPSP performs photothermal therapy (PTT) and remodels ECM by depleting collagen I, promoting deep penetration of therapeutics and immune cells. (2) PTT promotes SF release and SF exerts anti-vascular effects and down-regulates PD-L1 via RAS/RAF/ERK pathway inhibition, enhancing the efficacy of anti-PD-L1 mAb in overcoming immune evasion. (3) Anti-PD-L1 mAb block PD1/PD-L1 recognition and PTT-induced ICD initiates effector T cells and increases response rates of PD-L1 mAb. Highly-encapsulated BPSP converted 'cold' tumors into 'hot' ones, improved CTL/Treg ratio, and cured orthotopic HCC tumors in mice. Thus, multi-overcoming immune escape offers new possibilities for advancing immunotherapies, and photothermal/chemical/immune synergistic therapy shows promise in the clinical development of HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huizhen Yang
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Technology Research and Evaluation of Drug Products, Department of Pharmaceutics, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 Wenhua Xi Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Weiwei Mu
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Technology Research and Evaluation of Drug Products, Department of Pharmaceutics, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 Wenhua Xi Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Shijun Yuan
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Technology Research and Evaluation of Drug Products, Department of Pharmaceutics, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 Wenhua Xi Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Han Yang
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Technology Research and Evaluation of Drug Products, Department of Pharmaceutics, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 Wenhua Xi Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Lili Chang
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Technology Research and Evaluation of Drug Products, Department of Pharmaceutics, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 Wenhua Xi Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Xiao Sang
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Technology Research and Evaluation of Drug Products, Department of Pharmaceutics, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 Wenhua Xi Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Tong Gao
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Technology Research and Evaluation of Drug Products, Department of Pharmaceutics, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 Wenhua Xi Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Shuang Liang
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Technology Research and Evaluation of Drug Products, Department of Pharmaceutics, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 Wenhua Xi Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Xiaoqing Liu
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Technology Research and Evaluation of Drug Products, Department of Pharmaceutics, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 Wenhua Xi Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Shunli Fu
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Technology Research and Evaluation of Drug Products, Department of Pharmaceutics, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 Wenhua Xi Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Zipeng Zhang
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Technology Research and Evaluation of Drug Products, Department of Pharmaceutics, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 Wenhua Xi Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China
| | - Yongjun Liu
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Technology Research and Evaluation of Drug Products, Department of Pharmaceutics, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 Wenhua Xi Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
| | - Na Zhang
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Technology Research and Evaluation of Drug Products, Department of Pharmaceutics, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, 44 Wenhua Xi Road, Jinan, 250012, Shandong, China.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Lin Q, Lei D, Zhong T, Zhang Y, Da Q, Chen X, Li X, Liu J, Yan Z. Inactivation of ERK1/2 in cancer-associated hepatic stellate cells suppresses cancer-stromal interaction by regulating extracellular matrix in fibrosis. Am J Cancer Res 2024; 14:1015-1032. [PMID: 38590418 PMCID: PMC10998762 DOI: 10.62347/vpye3817] [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: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
The ERK1/2 pathway is involved in epithelial-mesenchymal transformation and cell cycle of tumor cells in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In the present study, we investigated the involvement of ERK1/2 activation on hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). We identified ERK1/2 phosphorylation in activated HSCs of HCC samples. We found that tumor cells promoted the migration and invasion capacity of HSCs by activating ERK1/2 phosphorylation. Using high throughput transcriptome sequencing analysis, we found that ERK1/2 inhibition altered genes significantly correlated to signaling pathways involved in extracellular matrix remodeling. We screened genes and demonstrated that the ERK1/2 inhibition-related gene set significantly correlated to cancer-associated fibroblast infiltration in TCGA HCC tumor samples. Moreover, inhibition of ERK1/2 suppressed tumor cell-induced enhancement of HSC migration and invasion by regulating expression of fibrosis markers FAP, FN1 and COL1A1. In a tumor cell and HSC splenic co-transplanted xenograft mouse model, inhibition of ERK1/2 suppressed liver tumor formation by downregulating fibrosis, indicating ERK1/2 inhibition suppresses tumor-stromal interactions in vivo. Taken together, our data indicate that inhibition of ERK1/2 in tumor-associated HSCs suppresses tumor-stromal interactions and progression. Furthermore, inhibition of ERK1/2 may be a potential target for HCC treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qirui Lin
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen HospitalShenzhen 518000, Guangdong, China
- Department of Clinical Application, Center for iPS Cell Research and Application (CiRA), Kyoto UniversityKyoto 6068507, Japan
| | - Defeng Lei
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen HospitalShenzhen 518000, Guangdong, China
| | - Tongning Zhong
- Central Laboratory, Peking University Shenzhen HospitalShenzhen 518000, Guangdong, China
| | - Yanmin Zhang
- Central Laboratory, Peking University Shenzhen HospitalShenzhen 518000, Guangdong, China
| | - Qingen Da
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen HospitalShenzhen 518000, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiao Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen HospitalShenzhen 518000, Guangdong, China
| | - Xuemei Li
- Department of Gynecology, Zhanjiang Maternity and Child Healthcare HospitalZhanjiang 524000, Guangdong, China
| | - Jikui Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen HospitalShenzhen 518000, Guangdong, China
| | - Zilong Yan
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen HospitalShenzhen 518000, Guangdong, China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Jiao W, Wen N, Wang S, Zhou G, Lu Q, Su Z, Wang X, Hu S, Xie Y, Zhang N, Liu X. Effect of surface modification on the distribution of magnetic nanorings in hepatocellular carcinoma and immune cells. J Mater Chem B 2024; 12:2628-2638. [PMID: 38376513 DOI: 10.1039/d3tb02560h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
Magnetic nanomaterial-mediated magnetic hyperthermia is a localized heating treatment modality that has been applied to treat aggressive cancer in clinics. In addition to being taken up by tumor cells to function in cancer therapy, magnetic nanomaterials can also be internalized by immune cells in the tumor microenvironment, which may contribute to regulating the anti-tumor immune effects. However, there exists little studies on the distribution of magnetic nanomaterials in different types of cells within tumor tissue. Herein, ferrimagnetic vortex-domain iron oxide nanorings (FVIOs) with or without the liver-cancer-targeting peptide SP94 have been successfully synthesized as a model system to investigate the effect of surface modification of FVIOs (with or without SP94) on the distribution of tumor cells and different immune cells in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) microenvironment of a mouse. The distribution ratio of FVIO-SP94s in tumor cells was 1.3 times more than that of FVIOs. Immune cells in the liver tumor microenvironment took up fewer FVIO-SP94s than FVIOs. In addition, myeloid cells were found to be much more amenable than lymphoid cells in terms of their ability to phagocytose nanoparticles. Specifically, the distributions of FVIOs/FVIO-SP94s in tumor-associated macrophages, dendritic cells, and myeloid-derived suppressor cells were 13.8%/12%, 3.7%/0.9%, and 6.3%/1.2%, respectively. While the distributions of FVIOs/FVIO-SP94s in T cells, B cells, and natural killer cells were 5.5%/0.7%, 3.0%/0.7%, and 0.4%/0.3%, respectively. The results described in this article enhance our understanding of the distribution of nanomaterials in the tumor microenvironment and provide a strategy for rational design of magnetic hyperthermia agents that can effectively regulate anti-tumor immune effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wangbo Jiao
- Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, Provincial Key Laboratory of Biotechnology of Shaanxi Province, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710069, China
| | - Nana Wen
- School of Science and Chemical Engineering, Ningxia Institute of Science and Technology, Shizuishan, Ningxia 753000, China
| | - Siyao Wang
- Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, Provincial Key Laboratory of Biotechnology of Shaanxi Province, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710069, China
| | - Guxiang Zhou
- National Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Precision Surgery & Regenerative Medicine, Shaanxi Province Center for Regenerative Medicine and Surgery Engineering Research, Shaanxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Magnetic Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China.
- Institute of Regenerative and Reconstructive Medicine, Med-X Institute, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710049, China
| | - Qiaoyi Lu
- Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, Provincial Key Laboratory of Biotechnology of Shaanxi Province, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710069, China
| | - Zijun Su
- School of materials, Sun Yat-Sen University, Shen Zhen, Guangdong 529406, China
| | - Xinxin Wang
- Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, Provincial Key Laboratory of Biotechnology of Shaanxi Province, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710069, China
| | - Shuwei Hu
- Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, Provincial Key Laboratory of Biotechnology of Shaanxi Province, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710069, China
| | - Youbang Xie
- Department of Hematology and Rheumatology, Qinghai Provincial People's Hospital, 2 Gonghe Road, Xining, Qinghai 810007, China
| | - Nan Zhang
- National Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Precision Surgery & Regenerative Medicine, Shaanxi Province Center for Regenerative Medicine and Surgery Engineering Research, Shaanxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Magnetic Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China.
- Institute of Regenerative and Reconstructive Medicine, Med-X Institute, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710049, China
| | - Xiaoli Liu
- National Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Precision Surgery & Regenerative Medicine, Shaanxi Province Center for Regenerative Medicine and Surgery Engineering Research, Shaanxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Magnetic Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, China.
- Institute of Regenerative and Reconstructive Medicine, Med-X Institute, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710049, China
- Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education, Provincial Key Laboratory of Biotechnology of Shaanxi Province, Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710069, China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Zhang Q, Zhu B, Yang H, Li F, Qu Y, Lu L, Zhang Q. Exploration of YBX1 role in the prognostic value and immune characteristics by single-cell and bulk sequencing analysis for liver hepatocellular carcinoma. J Gene Med 2024; 26:e3680. [PMID: 38448368 DOI: 10.1002/jgm.3680] [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: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Y-box binding protein 1 (YBX1) plays a variety of roles in progression of multiple tumors. However, the role of YBX1 in prognostic value and immune regulation for liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC) remains unclear. The present study aimed to examine the effect of YBX1 on the regulation of tumor immunity and survival prediction in LIHC patients. METHODS YBX1-related expression profiles and single-cell and bulk sequencing analysis were performed using online databases. YBX1 expression was validated by a quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), western blotting and immunohistochemistry. Univariate/multivariate Cox regression analysis was performed to determine independent predictors of overall survival (OS). The ESTIMATE (i.e., Estimation of STromal and Immune cells in MAlignant Tumor tissues using Expression data) algorithm and Tumor Immune Dysfunction and Exclusion (TIDE) analysis were used to assess the relationships between YBX1 and LIHC immunity. RESULTS YBX1 was over-expressed in LIHC tissues and cell lines. High YBX1 expression was significantly associated with poor OS. Univariate/multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that YBX1 was an independent prognostic factor for LIHC. Gene set enrichment analysis revealed that YBX1 was associated with multiple signaling pathways correlated to LIHC. Additionally, YBX1 was expressed in multiple immune cells and was significantly correlated with immune cells, immune checkpoint markers and tumor immune microenvironment. The TIDE analysis demonstrated that LIHC patients with high YBX1 expression showed a higher T-cell dysfunction score and a higher exclusion score, as well as poorer immunotherapy response. CONCLUSIONS YBX1 plays crucial oncogenic roles in LIHC and is closely associated with the immune defense system. YBX1 inhibition may serve as a potential treatment for LIHC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qingqing Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Diseases, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Bingye Zhu
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Nantong Hospital of Shanghai University, The Sixth People's Hospital of Nantong, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Hongyan Yang
- Nursing Department, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Fei Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Diseases, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying Qu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Diseases, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lungen Lu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Diseases, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qidi Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Diseases, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Sun YD, Zhang H, Li YM, Han JJ. Abnormal metabolism in hepatic stellate cells: Pandora's box of MAFLD related hepatocellular carcinoma. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2024; 1879:189086. [PMID: 38342420 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2024.189086] [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: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/13/2024]
Abstract
Metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is a significant risk factor for the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), as key mediators in liver injury response, are believed to play a crucial role in the repair process of liver injury. However, in MAFLD patients, the normal metabolic and immunoregulatory mechanisms of HSCs become disrupted, leading to disturbances in the local microenvironment. Abnormally activated HSCs are heavily involved in the initiation and progression of HCC. The metabolic disorders and abnormal activation of HSCs not only initiate liver fibrosis but also contribute to carcinogenesis. In this review, we provide an overview of recent research progress on the relationship between the abnormal metabolism of HSCs and the local immune system in the liver, elucidating the mechanisms of immune imbalance caused by abnormally activated HSCs in MAFLD patients. Based on this understanding, we discuss the potential and challenges of metabolic-based and immunology-based mechanisms in the treatment of MAFLD-related HCC, with a specific focus on the role of HSCs in HCC progression and their potential as targets for anti-cancer therapy. This review aims to enhance researchers' understanding of the importance of HSCs in maintaining normal liver function and highlights the significance of HSCs in the progression of MAFLD-related HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuan-Dong Sun
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute Affiliated Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, China
| | - Hao Zhang
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute Affiliated Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, China
| | - Yuan-Min Li
- NHC Key Laboratory of Transplant Engineering and Immunology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, China
| | - Jian-Jun Han
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Shandong Cancer Hospital and Institute Affiliated Shandong First Medical University, Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, China.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Pessino G, Scotti C, Maggi M, Immuno-Hub Consortium. Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Old and Emerging Therapeutic Targets. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:901. [PMID: 38473265 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16050901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer, predominantly hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), globally ranks sixth in incidence and third in cancer-related deaths. HCC risk factors include non-viral hepatitis, alcohol abuse, environmental exposures, and genetic factors. No specific genetic alterations are unequivocally linked to HCC tumorigenesis. Current standard therapies include surgical options, systemic chemotherapy, and kinase inhibitors, like sorafenib and regorafenib. Immunotherapy, targeting immune checkpoints, represents a promising avenue. FDA-approved checkpoint inhibitors, such as atezolizumab and pembrolizumab, show efficacy, and combination therapies enhance clinical responses. Despite this, the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains a challenge, as the complex tumor ecosystem and the immunosuppressive microenvironment associated with it hamper the efficacy of the available therapeutic approaches. This review explores current and advanced approaches to treat HCC, considering both known and new potential targets, especially derived from proteomic analysis, which is today considered as the most promising approach. Exploring novel strategies, this review discusses antibody drug conjugates (ADCs), chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy (CAR-T), and engineered antibodies. It then reports a systematic analysis of the main ligand/receptor pairs and molecular pathways reported to be overexpressed in tumor cells, highlighting their potential and limitations. Finally, it discusses TGFβ, one of the most promising targets of the HCC microenvironment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Greta Pessino
- Unit of Immunology and General Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Claudia Scotti
- Unit of Immunology and General Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Maristella Maggi
- Unit of Immunology and General Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Immuno-Hub Consortium
- Unit of Immunology and General Pathology, Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Lian SL, Lu YT, Lu YJ, Yao YL, Wang XL, Jiang RQ. Tumor-associated macrophages promoting PD-L1 expression in infiltrating B cells through the CXCL12/CXCR4 axis in human hepatocellular carcinoma. Am J Cancer Res 2024; 14:832-853. [PMID: 38455420 PMCID: PMC10915331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
The inflammation-related tumor microenvironment (TME) is one of the major driving forces of hepatocarcinogenesis. We aimed to investigate cell-to-cell communication among Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) through re-analyzing HCC single-cell RNA-seq data, and to confirm such cellular interaction through in vitro and in vivo study. We found a subset of Regulatory B cells with PD-L1 expression (PD-L1+ Bregs), mainly located in adjacent HCC tissues. In co-localization with PD-L1+ Bregs, a subset of Tumor Associated Macrophages with high expression of CXCL12 (CXCL12+ TAMs) was also mainly located in adjacent HCC tissues. Moreover, CXCL12+ TAMs can be stimulated in vitro using an HCC conditional medium. Using CellChat analysis and Multiplex Immunohistochemistry staining (mIHC), CXCL12+ TAMs were found to be first recruited by Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts (CAFs) through a CD74/macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) pattern, and further differentiated into TGF-β-enriched tissues. Furthermore, CXCL12+ TAMs recruited PD-L1+ Bregs via the CXCL12/CXCR4 axis, and CXCR4 expression was significantly positively correlated to PD-L1 expression in PD-L1+ Bregs. At last, we confirmed the communications among CAFs, Macrophages and B cells and their tumor-promoting effects by using an orthotopic mouse model of HCC. Immunosuppressive HCC TME involving cell-to-cell communications comprised MIF-secreting CAFs, CXCL12-secreting TAMs, and PD-L1-producing Bregs, and their regulation could be promising therapeutic targets in future immunotherapy for human HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sen-Lin Lian
- Medical School, Nanjing UniversityNanjing 210093, Jiangsu, The People’s Republic of China
| | - Yun-Tao Lu
- Medical School, Nanjing UniversityNanjing 210093, Jiangsu, The People’s Republic of China
| | - Yi-Jun Lu
- Medical School, Nanjing UniversityNanjing 210093, Jiangsu, The People’s Republic of China
| | - Yong-Liang Yao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Kunshan First People’s Hospital, Affiliated to Jiangsu UniversityKunshan 215300, Jiangsu, The People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Lin Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Northern Jiangsu People’s Hospital and Clinical Medical College of Yangzhou UniversityYangzhou 225001, Jiangsu, The People’s Republic of China
| | - Run-Qiu Jiang
- Medical School, Nanjing UniversityNanjing 210093, Jiangsu, The People’s Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Medical School, Nanjing UniversityNanjing 210093, Jiangsu, The People’s Republic of China
- Jiangsu Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School, Nanjing UniversityNanjing 210093, Jiangsu, The People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
ZHANG YANG, QIN NANNAN, WANG XIJUN, LIANG RUI, LIU QUAN, GENG RUOYI, JIANG TIANXIAO, LIU YUNFEI, LI JINWEI. Glycogen metabolism-mediated intercellular communication in the tumor microenvironment influences liver cancer prognosis. Oncol Res 2024; 32:563-576. [PMID: 38361757 PMCID: PMC10865732 DOI: 10.32604/or.2023.029697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Glycogen metabolism plays a key role in the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but the function of glycogen metabolism genes in the tumor microenvironment (TME) is still to be elucidated. Single-cell RNA-seq data were obtained from ten HCC tumor samples totaling 64,545 cells, and 65 glycogen metabolism genes were analyzed by a nonnegative matrix factorization (NMF). The prognosis and immune response of new glycogen TME cell clusters were predicted by using HCC and immunotherapy cohorts from public databases. HCC single-cell analysis was divided into fibroblasts, NT T cells, macrophages, endothelial cells, and B cells, which were separately divided into new cell clusters by glycogen metabolism gene annotation. Pseudo-temporal trajectory analysis demonstrated the temporal differentiation trajectory of different glycogen subtype cell clusters. Cellular communication analysis revealed extensive interactions between endothelial cells with glycogen metabolizing TME cell-related subtypes and different glycogen subtype cell clusters. SCENIC analysis of transcription factors upstream of TME cell clusters with different glycogen metabolism. In addition, TME cell clusters of glycogen metabolism were found to be enriched in expression in CAF subtypes, CD8 depleted, M1, and M2 types. Bulk-seq analysis showed the prognostic significance of glycogen metabolism-mediated TME cell clusters in HCC, while a significant immune response was found in the immunotherapy cohort in patients treated with immune checkpoint blockade (ICB), especially for CAFs, T cells, and macrophages. In summary, our study reveals for the first time that glycogen metabolism mediates intercellular communication in the hepatocellular carcinoma microenvironment while elucidating the anti-tumor mechanisms and immune prognostic responses of different subtypes of cell clusters.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- YANG ZHANG
- Graduate School, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650000, China
- Department of Vascular Surgery, Fuwai Yunnan Cardiovascular Hospital, Affiliated Cardiovascular Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, 650000, China
| | - NANNAN QIN
- Department of Gynecology Oncology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Liuzhou, 545000, China
| | - XIJUN WANG
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xianning Medical College, Hubei University of Science and Technology, Xianning, 437100, China
| | - RUI LIANG
- College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400030, China
| | - QUAN LIU
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Liuzhou, 545000, China
| | - RUOYI GENG
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, 81377, Germany
| | - TIANXIAO JIANG
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, 81377, Germany
| | - YUNFEI LIU
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, 81377, Germany
| | - JINWEI LI
- Department of Neurosurgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610000, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Liuzhou, 545000, China
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Ding L, Qian J, Yu X, Wu Q, Mao J, Liu X, Wang Y, Guo D, Su R, Xie H, Yin S, Zhou L, Zheng S. Blocking MARCO + tumor-associated macrophages improves anti-PD-L1 therapy of hepatocellular carcinoma by promoting the activation of STING-IFN type I pathway. Cancer Lett 2024; 582:216568. [PMID: 38065400 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2023.216568] [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: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
The PD-L1/PD-1 axis is a classic immunotherapy target. However, anti-PD-L1/PD-1 therapy alone can not achieve satisfactory results in solid tumors, especially liver cancer. Among the several factors involved in tumor anti-PD-L1/PD-1 treatment resistance, tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) have attracted attention because of their immunosuppressive ability. TAMs with a macrophage receptor with a collagenous structure (MARCO) are a macrophage subset group with strong immunosuppressive abilities. Clinical specimens and animal experiments revealed a negative correlation between MARCO + TAMs and patient prognosis with liver cancer. Transcriptional data and in vitro and in vivo experiments revealed that MARCO + TAM immunosuppressive ability was related to secretion. MARCO suppressed IFN-β secretion from TAMs, reducing antigen presentation molecule expression, infiltration, and CD8+T cell dysfunction, thus producing an immunosuppressive microenvironment in liver cancer. MARCO can promote dying tumor cell clearance by macrophages, reducing tumor-derived cGAMP and ATP accumulation in the tumor microenvironment and inhibiting sting-IFN-β pathway activation mediated by P2X7R in MARCO+TAMs. Animal experiments revealed that the MARCO and PD-L1 monoclonal antibody combination could significantly inhibit liver cancer growth. Conclusively, targeting MARCO+TAMs can significantly improve anti-PD-L1 resistance in liver cancer, making it a potential novel immune target for liver cancer therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Limin Ding
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2019RU019), Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Junjie Qian
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2019RU019), Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Xizhi Yu
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2019RU019), Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Qinchuan Wu
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2019RU019), Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Jing Mao
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2019RU019), Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Xi Liu
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2019RU019), Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Yubo Wang
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2019RU019), Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Danjing Guo
- NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2019RU019), Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Rong Su
- NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2019RU019), Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Haiyang Xie
- NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2019RU019), Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Shengyong Yin
- NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2019RU019), Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Lin Zhou
- NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2019RU019), Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310003, China.
| | - ShuSen Zheng
- Division of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Department of Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Combined Multi-organ Transplantation, Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Organ Transplantation, Research Unit of Collaborative Diagnosis and Treatment for Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Cancer, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences(2019RU019), Hangzhou, 310003, China; Key Laboratory of Organ Transplantation, Research Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatobiliary Diseases, Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310003, China.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Karimi A, Yarmohammadi H, Erinjeri JP. Immune Effects of Intra-Arterial Liver-Directed Therapies. J Vasc Interv Radiol 2024; 35:178-184. [PMID: 38272638 PMCID: PMC11334421 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvir.2023.10.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Image-guided intra-arterial locoregional therapies (LRTs) such as transarterial embolization, transarterial chemoembolization, and transarterial radioembolization exhibit effects on the immune system. Understanding the humoral (cytokine, chemokine, and growth factor) and cellular (T cell, neutrophil, dendritic cell, and macrophage) mechanisms underlying the immune effects of LRT is crucial to designing rational and effective combinations of immunotherapy and interventional radiology procedures. This article aims to review the immune effects of intra-arterial LRTs and provide insight into strategies to combine LRTs with systemic immunotherapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anita Karimi
- Interventional Radiology Service, Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Hooman Yarmohammadi
- Interventional Radiology Service, Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Joseph P Erinjeri
- Interventional Radiology Service, Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Wendong Y, Jiali J, Qiaomei F, Yayun W, Xianze X, Zheng S, Wei H. Biomechanical forces and force-triggered drug delivery in tumor neovascularization. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 171:116117. [PMID: 38171243 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.116117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Tumor angiogenesis is one of the typical hallmarks of tumor occurrence and development, and tumor neovascularization also exhibits distinct characteristics from normal blood vessels. As the number of cells and matrix inside the tumor increases, the biomechanical force is enhanced, specifically manifested as solid stress, fluid stress, stiffness, and topology. This mechanical microenvironment also provides shelter for tumors and intensifies angiogenesis, providing oxygen and nutritional support for tumor progression. During tumor development, the biomechanical microenvironment also emerges, which in turn feeds back to regulate the tumor progression, including tumor angiogenesis, and biochemical and biomechanical signals can regulate tumor angiogenesis. Blood vessels possess inherent sensitivity to mechanical stimuli, but compared to the extensive research on biochemical signal regulation, the study of the regulation of tumor neovascularization by biomechanical signals remains relatively scarce. Biomechanical forces can affect the phenotypic characteristics and mechanical signaling pathways of tumor blood vessels, directly regulating angiogenesis. Meanwhile, they can indirectly regulate tumor angiogenesis by causing an imbalance in angiogenesis signals and affecting stromal cell function. Understanding the regulatory mechanism of biomechanical forces in tumor angiogenesis is beneficial for better identifying and even taming the mechanical forces involved in angiogenesis, providing new therapeutic targets for tumor vascular normalization. Therefore, we summarized the composition of biomechanical forces and their direct or indirect regulation of tumor neovascularization. In addition, this review discussed the use of biomechanical forces in combination with anti-angiogenic therapies for the treatment of tumors, and biomechanical forces triggered delivery systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yao Wendong
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine), Hangzhou 310005, China
| | - Jiang Jiali
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine), Hangzhou 310005, China
| | - Fan Qiaomei
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine), Hangzhou 310005, China
| | - Weng Yayun
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine), Hangzhou 310005, China
| | - Xie Xianze
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine), Hangzhou 310005, China
| | - Shi Zheng
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine), Hangzhou 310005, China.
| | - Huang Wei
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine), Hangzhou 310005, China.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Xu Y, Liu X, Cao J, Wu Y, Jiang Q, Luo B. Rho GTPase-activating protein 1 promotes hepatocellular carcinoma progression via modulation by CircPIP5K1A/MiR-101-3p. Hepatol Res 2024; 54:174-188. [PMID: 37792600 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.13972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
AIM There has been an increased focus on regulating cell function with Rho family GTPases, including proliferation, migration/invasion, polarity, and adhesion. Due to the challenges involved in targeting Rho family GTPases directly, it may be more effective to target their regulators, such as Rho GTPase-activating protein 1 (ARHGAP1). This present research was performed to define the clinical significance of ARHGAP1 expression, as well as its regulatory mechanisms in hepatocellular carcinoma. METHODS ARHGAP1 and miR-101-3p expression of liver cancer patients, and their relevance with clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis were analyzed by the Cancer Genome Atlas sequencing data, and verified using samples of hepatocellular carcinoma patients. The interactions between miR-101-3p and ARHGAP1 or circPIP5K1A were validated by bioinformatic analyses, as well as confirmed by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, western blotting, and dual-luciferase reporter analysis. Plate clonality assays, cell adhesion and migration experiments, and proliferation experiments were used for assessing the participation of the circPIP5K1A/miR-101-3p/ARHGAP1 pathway in cell proliferation and motility. RESULTS Elevated ARHGAP1 and reduced miR-101-3p expression are related to poorer survival. MiR-101-3p targets ARHGAP1 to suppress hepatocellular carcinoma cell colony formation and invasion, whereas miR-101-3p inhibitor reverses liver cancer proliferation and metastasis suppression caused by ARHGAP1 knockdown. In addition, circPIP5K1A, which is mainly distributed in the cytosol, showed carcinogenic effects by sponging miR-101-3p, thus regulating ARHGAP1 expression. CONCLUSIONS ARHGAP1 serves as an oncogenic gene in liver cancer, and the expression thereof is regulated by circPIP5K1A through sponging miR-101-3p.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanni Xu
- Department of Ultrasound, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xiaodi Liu
- Department of Ultrasound, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Laboratory of Ultrasound Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jincheng Cao
- Department of Ultrasound, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Ye Wu
- Department of Ultrasound, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Qiongchao Jiang
- Department of Ultrasound, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Baoming Luo
- Department of Ultrasound, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Hu Z, You L, Hu S, Yu L, Gao Y, Li L, Zhang S. Hepatocellular carcinoma cell-derived exosomal miR-21-5p promotes the polarization of tumor-related macrophages (TAMs) through SP1/XBP1 and affects the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 126:111149. [PMID: 38006750 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.111149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) have unique functions in the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The tumor microenvironment is in a complex state in chronic disease. As a major participant in tumor-associated inflammation, TAMs have a unique effect on promoting tumor cell proliferation, angiogenesis and immunosuppression. The in-depth study of TAMs has important scientific and clinical value and provides new ideas for the treatment of cancer. METHODS Bioinformatics analysis, dual-luciferase reporter assays, RT-qPCR and clinical samples were used to analyze the potential mechanism of the miR-21-5p/SP1/XBP1 molecular axis in HCC. In this study, miR-21-5p was highly expressed in HCC exosomes compared with normal hepatocyte exosomes, and HCC exosomes containing miR-21-5p promoted the proliferation and migration of HCC cells and inhibited cell apoptosis. In addition, this treatment promoted the M2 polarization of macrophages, induced the expression of transcription factor-specific protein 1 (SP1), and inhibited the expression of X-box binding protein 1 (XBP1). However, these expression trends were reversed after inhibition of miR-21-5p expression in exosomes of hepatoma cells, and the effects of exosomal miR-21-5p were partially restored after overexpression of SP1. Animal experiments also verified that exosomal miR-21-5p in HCC cells affected the expression level of the SP1/XBP1 protein and promoted M2 polarization of TAMs. CONCLUSION Exosomal miR-21-5p in HCC cells can affect the development of HCC cells by regulating SP1/XBP1 and promoting the M2 polarization of TAMs, thereby affecting the adverse prognostic response of HCC patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zongqiang Hu
- Hepato-pancreato-biliary Surgery Department, First People's Hospital of Kunming City, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, China; The Calmette Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, China
| | - Liying You
- The Calmette Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, China; Department of Hepatology, First People's Hospital of Kunming City, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, China
| | - Songqi Hu
- Hepato-pancreato-biliary Surgery Department, First People's Hospital of Kunming City, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, China; The Calmette Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, China
| | - Lu Yu
- The Calmette Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, China; Department of Pathology, First People's Hospital of Kunming City, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, China
| | - Yang Gao
- Hepato-pancreato-biliary Surgery Department, First People's Hospital of Kunming City, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, China; The Calmette Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, China
| | - Li Li
- Hepato-pancreato-biliary Surgery Department, First People's Hospital of Kunming City, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, China; The Calmette Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, China.
| | - Shengning Zhang
- Hepato-pancreato-biliary Surgery Department, First People's Hospital of Kunming City, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, China; The Calmette Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan 650032, China.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Yüregir Y, Kaçaroğlu D, Yaylacı S. Regulation of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition Mechanism and Targeted Therapeutic Approaches. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2024; 1450:93-102. [PMID: 37452258 DOI: 10.1007/5584_2023_781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a primary liver malignancy that accounts for the majority of liver cancer cases, with multiple risk factors including chronic hepatitis B and C infections, alcohol abuse, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Despite advancements in diagnosis and treatment, the survival rate of patients with advanced HCC remains low, creating an urgent need for new therapeutic targets and strategies.One biological process crucial to HCC progression is the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). EMT is a process that enables epithelial cells to acquire mesenchymal properties, including motility and invasiveness, by losing their cell-cell adhesion. Various signaling pathways, including TGF-β, Wnt/β-catenin, and Notch, have been implicated in regulating EMT in HCC.To inhibit EMT, targeted therapeutic approaches have been developed, and preclinical studies suggest that the inhibition of the TGF-β, Wnt/β-catenin, and Notch signaling pathways is promising. TGF-β receptor inhibitors, Wnt/β-catenin pathway inhibitors, and gamma-secretase inhibitors have shown efficacy in preclinical studies by inhibiting EMT and reducing tumor growth in HCC models. However, further clinical studies are necessary to determine their effectiveness in human patients.In addition to these approaches, further research is needed to identify other novel therapeutic targets and develop new treatment strategies for HCC. This review emphasizes the critical role of EMT in HCC progression and highlights the potential of targeting the TGF-β, Wnt/β-catenin, and Notch signaling pathways to inhibit EMT and reduce tumor growth in HCC. Future studies and clinical trials are necessary to validate these therapeutic strategies and develop effective treatments for HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yelda Yüregir
- Molecular Biology and Genetics Department, İhsan Doğramacı Bilkent University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Demet Kaçaroğlu
- Faculty of Medicine, Medical Biology Department, Lokman Hekim University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Seher Yaylacı
- Faculty of Medicine, Medical Biology Department, Lokman Hekim University, Ankara, Turkey.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Li M, Huang F, Zhu W, Peng Y, Xu F, Li W, Zhao Q, Liu L. Dynamic regulation of EXO1 promotes the progression from liver fibrosis to HCC through TGF-β1/Smad signaling feedback loop. Hepatol Commun 2024; 8:e0342. [PMID: 38126949 PMCID: PMC10749710 DOI: 10.1097/hc9.0000000000000342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HSCs are the main stromal cells in the process of liver fibrosis and accelerate HCC progression. Previous studies determined that highly expressed exonuclease 1 (EXO1) increases the malignant behavior of HCC cells and is closely related to liver cirrhosis. This study aimed to explore the roles and mechanisms of EXO1 in the development of liver cirrhosis and HCC. METHODS We fully demonstrated that EXO1 expression was positively correlated with liver fibrosis and cirrhotic HCC by combining bioinformatics, hepatic fibrosis mouse models, and human HCC tissues. The role of EXO1 in a murine HCC model induced by activated forms of AKT and Ras oncogenes (AKT/Ras) was investigated by employing an adeno-associated virus-mediated EXO1 knockdown technique. RESULTS The knockdown of EXO1 promoted a regression of HCC in AKT/Ras mice and reduced the degree of liver fibrosis. Downregulated EXO1 inhibited LX-2 cell activation and inhibited the proliferation and migration of HCC cells. Moreover, conditioned medium of LX-2 cells with EXO1 overexpression increased the proliferation and migration of HCC cells, which was attenuated after EXO1 knockout in LX-2 cells. EXO1 knockdown attenuated the role of LX-2 in promoting HepG2 xenograft growth in vivo. Mechanistically, EXO1 promotes the activation of the downstream TGF-β-smad2/3 signaling in LX-2 and HCC cells. Interestingly, increased TGF-β-smad2/3 signaling had a feedback effect on EXO1, which sustains EXO1 expression and continuously stimulates the activation of HSCs. CONCLUSIONS EXO1 forms a positive feedback circuit with TGF-β-Smad2/3 signaling and promotes the activation of HSCs, which accelerates HCC progression. Those findings indicate EXO1 may be a promising target for the diagnosis and treatment of cirrhotic HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mengting Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Clinical Center and Key Lab of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Fengxing Huang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Clinical Center and Key Lab of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Weining Zhu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Clinical Center and Key Lab of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Yanan Peng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Clinical Center and Key Lab of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Fei Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Clinical Center and Key Lab of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Wenjie Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Clinical Center and Key Lab of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Qiu Zhao
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Clinical Center and Key Lab of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Lan Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Clinical Center and Key Lab of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Lambertucci F, Li S, Motiño O, Montégut L, Nogueira-Recalde U, Chen H, Anagnostopoulos G, Maiuri MC, Kroemer G, Martins I. Orthotopic Model of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Mice. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2769:1-13. [PMID: 38315385 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3694-7_1] [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] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Orthotopic models of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) consist in the implantation of tumor cells into the liver by direct intrahepatic injection. In this model, tumorigenesis is triggered within the hepatic microenvironment, thus mimicking the metastatic behavior of HCC. Herein, we detail a surgically mediated methodology that allows the reproducible and effective induction of liver-sessile tumors in mice. We enumerate the steps to be followed before and after the surgical procedure, including HCC cell preparation, the quantity of cancer cells to be injected, presurgical preparation of the mice, and finally, postoperative care. The surgical procedure involves laparotomy to expose the liver, injection of cells into the left-lateral hepatic lobe, and closure of the incision with sutures followed by wound clips. We also provide information concerning the subsequent tumor growth follow-up, as well as the application of bioluminescence imaging to monitor tumor development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Flavia Lambertucci
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Equipe labellisée par la Ligue contre le cancer, Inserm U1138, Université Paris Cité, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
- Metabolomics and Cell Biology Platforms, UMS AMMICa, Gustave Roussy, Villejuif, France
| | - Sijing Li
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Equipe labellisée par la Ligue contre le cancer, Inserm U1138, Université Paris Cité, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
- Metabolomics and Cell Biology Platforms, UMS AMMICa, Gustave Roussy, Villejuif, France
- Faculté de Médecine, Université de Paris Saclay, Kremlin Bicêtre, France
| | - Omar Motiño
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Equipe labellisée par la Ligue contre le cancer, Inserm U1138, Université Paris Cité, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
- Metabolomics and Cell Biology Platforms, UMS AMMICa, Gustave Roussy, Villejuif, France
| | - Léa Montégut
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Equipe labellisée par la Ligue contre le cancer, Inserm U1138, Université Paris Cité, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
- Metabolomics and Cell Biology Platforms, UMS AMMICa, Gustave Roussy, Villejuif, France
- Faculté de Médecine, Université de Paris Saclay, Kremlin Bicêtre, France
| | - Uxía Nogueira-Recalde
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Equipe labellisée par la Ligue contre le cancer, Inserm U1138, Université Paris Cité, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
- Metabolomics and Cell Biology Platforms, UMS AMMICa, Gustave Roussy, Villejuif, France
- Rheumatology Research Group (GIR), Biomedical Research Institute of A Coruña (INIBIC), Professor Novoa Santos Foundation, A Coruña, Spain
| | - Hui Chen
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Equipe labellisée par la Ligue contre le cancer, Inserm U1138, Université Paris Cité, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
- Metabolomics and Cell Biology Platforms, UMS AMMICa, Gustave Roussy, Villejuif, France
- Faculté de Médecine, Université de Paris Saclay, Kremlin Bicêtre, France
| | - Gerasimos Anagnostopoulos
- Metabolomics and Cell Biology Platforms, UMS AMMICa, Gustave Roussy, Villejuif, France
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Equipe labellisée par la Ligue contre le cancer, Inserm U1138, Université Paris Cité, Sorbonne Université, Institut Universitaire de France, Paris, France
| | - Maria Chiara Maiuri
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Equipe labellisée par la Ligue contre le cancer, Inserm U1138, Université Paris Cité, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
- Metabolomics and Cell Biology Platforms, UMS AMMICa, Gustave Roussy, Villejuif, France
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Guido Kroemer
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Equipe labellisée par la Ligue contre le cancer, Inserm U1138, Université Paris Cité, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
- Metabolomics and Cell Biology Platforms, UMS AMMICa, Gustave Roussy, Villejuif, France
- Department of Biology, Institut du Cancer Paris CARPEM, Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Isabelle Martins
- Centre de Recherche des Cordeliers, Equipe labellisée par la Ligue contre le cancer, Inserm U1138, Université Paris Cité, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France.
- Metabolomics and Cell Biology Platforms, UMS AMMICa, Gustave Roussy, Villejuif, France.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Wang X, Huang L, Wen X, Li D, Yang G, Zheng J. Altered NCR3 Splice Variants May Result in Deficient NK Cell Function in Renal Cell Carcinoma Patients. In Vivo 2024; 38:174-183. [PMID: 38148073 PMCID: PMC10756430 DOI: 10.21873/invivo.13423] [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: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIM The natural killer (NK) cell function of patients with malignant tumours may be suppressed by deficiency, and the poor prognosis of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) patients may be due to escape from NK cell cytotoxicity, especially with respect to natural cytotoxicity receptors (NCRs) on the NK cell surface. However, the specific mechanism remains unclear. Therefore, in this study, we sought to explore the role of NCR, especially NCR3 splice variants, in the process of NK cell deficiency in RCC patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS We used flow cytometry to analyse the phenotype of NK cells from the peripheral blood and kidney tumour tissue of RCC patients. The NKp30-mediated NK cell killing function was measured by antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC) in NK and RCC cell coincubation. We extracted RNA from the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of RCC patients and renal carcinoma tissue and carried out real-time quantitative PCR to detect the mRNA levels of NKp30a, NKp30b and NKp30c. mRNA expression levels of cytokines (IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-18 and TGF-β) based on RNA extracted from renal carcinoma tissue and adjacent normal kidney tissues were also measured by real-time quantitative PCR. RESULTS Regarding the phenotype of NK cells in RCC patients, the proportion of NK cells in tumour tissue was significantly reduced, with changes in the NK cell proportion being most obvious in NKp30+ NK cells. Furthermore, the results of the ADCC function assay showed limited NKp30+ NK cell-mediated cytotoxicity in RCC patients. Through real-time quantitative PCR, we found lower expression of NKp30a and NKp30b, the immunostimulatory splice variants of NCR3 encoding NKp30, in RCC patients. Moreover, expression of activating cytokines (IL-6 and IL-8) in renal cancer tissue was decreased, though inhibitory cytokine (TGF-β) expression remained unchanged, which may result in an immunosuppressive cytokine microenvironment. CONCLUSION Decreased expression of immunostimulatory NCR3 splice variants and the inhibitory cytokine microenvironment in RCC patients may contribute to deficient NK cell cytotoxicity and renal carcinoma cell immune escape from NK cell killing, which may provide a theoretical basis for finding new immunotherapeutic targets for RCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xuelei Wang
- Department of Urology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Liqun Huang
- Department of Urology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Xiaofei Wen
- Department of Urology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Dongyang Li
- Department of Urology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Guosheng Yang
- Department of Urology, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P.R. China
| | - Junhua Zheng
- Department of Urology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Wu H, Jiang N, Li J, Jin Q, Jin J, Guo J, Wei X, Wang X, Yao L, Meng D, Zhi X. Tumor cell SPTBN1 inhibits M2 polarization of macrophages by suppressing CXCL1 expression. J Cell Physiol 2024; 239:97-111. [PMID: 37921259 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.31146] [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: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are the most abundant immune cells in the tumor microenvironment, and the M2-type TAMs can promote tumor growth, invasion and angiogenesis, and suppress antitumor immune responses. It has been reported that spectrin beta, non-erythrocytic 1 (SPTBN1) may inhibit the infiltration of macrophages in Sptbn1+/- mouse liver, but whether tumor SPTBN1 affects TAMs polarization remains unclear. This study investigated the effect and mechanism of tumor cell SPTBN1 on polarization and migration of TAMs in hepatoma and breast cancer. By analyzing tumor immune databases, we found a negative correlation between SPTBN1 and abundance of macrophages and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) in the tumor microenvironment. By reverse transcription-quantitative real-time PCR assays and cell migration assays, the migration and M2 polarization of macrophages were enhanced by the culture medium from hepatocellular carcinoma cell line PLC/PRF/5, SNU449, and breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-231 with SPTBN1 suppression, which could be reversed by CXCL1 neutralizing antibody MAB275. Meanwhile, the ability of migration and colony formation of PLC/PRF/5, SNU449, and MDA-MB-231 cells were promoted when coculture with M2 macrophages. We also found that SPTBN1 regulated CXCL1 through p65 by cytoplasmic-nuclear protein isolation experiments and ChIP-qPCR. Our data suggest that tumor cell SPTBN1 inhibits migration and M2-type polarization of TAMs by reducing the expression and secretion of CXCL1 via inhibiting p65 nuclear localization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huijie Wu
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Nan Jiang
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiajia Li
- Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Quanshan Jin
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiayu Jin
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jieyu Guo
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiangxiang Wei
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinhong Wang
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Liangqing Yao
- Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Dan Meng
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiuling Zhi
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Üremiş N, Aslan M, Taşlidere E, Gürel E. Dexpanthenol exhibits antiapoptotic and anti-inflammatory effects against nicotine-induced liver damage by modulating Bax/Bcl-xL, Caspase-3/9, and Akt/NF-κB pathways. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2024; 38:e23622. [PMID: 38229321 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.23622] [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: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
Chronic tobacco use can lead to liver damage and inflammation due to the accumulation of various toxins in the body. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between the molecular mechanisms of nicotine-induced liver injury, the caspase cascade, and the Akt/NF-κB signaling pathway, as well as the protective effects of dexpanthenol (DEX). Male rats were subjected to intraperitoneal injections of nicotine at a concentration of 0.5 mg/kg/day and/or DEX at a concentration of 500 mg/kg/day for 8 weeks. After the treatment period, liver function tests were conducted on serum samples, and tissue samples were analyzed for protein levels of Akt, NF-κB, Bax, Bcl-xL, Caspase-3, and Caspase-9, along with histopathological changes. Additionally, assessments of oxidative stress markers and proinflammatory cytokines were carried out. Nicotine administration led to elevated levels of IL-6, IL-1β, MDA, TOS, and oxidative stress index, accompanied by decreased TAS levels. Moreover, nicotine exposure reduced the p-Akt/Akt ratio, increased NF-κB, Bax, Caspase-3, and Caspase-9 protein levels, and decreased the antiapoptotic protein Bcl-xL levels. DEX treatment significantly mitigated these effects, restoring the parameters to levels comparable to those of the control group. Nicotine-induced liver injury resulted in oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis, mediated by Bax/Bcl-xL, Caspase-3, Caspase-9, and Akt/NF-κB pathways. Conversely, DEX effectively attenuated nicotine-induced liver injury by modulating apoptosis through NF-κB, Caspase-3, Caspase-9, Bax inhibition, and Bcl-xL activation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nuray Üremiş
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, Inonu University, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Meral Aslan
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, Inonu University, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Elif Taşlidere
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical Faculty, Inonu University, Malatya, Turkey
| | - Elif Gürel
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Medical Faculty, Inonu University, Malatya, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Song F, Chen Z. Preclinical liver cancer models in the context of immunoprecision therapy: Application and perspectives. Shijie Huaren Xiaohua Zazhi 2023; 31:989-1000. [DOI: 10.11569/wcjd.v31.i24.989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), ranking as the third leading cause of cancer-related mortality globally, continues to pose challenges in achieving optimal treatment outcomes. The complex nature of HCC, characterized by high spatiotemporal heterogeneity, invasive potential, and drug resistance, presents difficulties in its research. Consequently, an in-depth understanding and accurate simulation of the immune microenvironment of HCC are of paramount importance. This article comprehensively explores the application of preclinical models in HCC research, encompassing cell line models, patient-derived xenograft mouse models, genetically engineered mouse models, chemically induced models, humanized mouse models, organoid models, and microfluidic chip-based patient derived organotypic spheroids models. Each model possesses its distinct advantages and limitations in replicating the biological behavior and immune microenvironment of HCC. By scrutinizing the limitations of existing models, this paper aims to propel the development of next-generation cancer models, enabling more precise emulation of HCC characteristics. This will, in turn, facilitate the optimization of treatment strategies, drug efficacy prediction, and safety assessments, ultimately contributing to the realization of personalized and precision therapies. Additionally, this article also provides insights into future trends and challenges in the fields of tumor biology and preclinical research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fei Song
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu Province, China
- Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Zhong Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu Province, China
- Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong 226001, Jiangsu Province, China
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Doi S, Yasuda S, Matsuo Y, Sakata T, Nishiwada S, Nagai M, Nakamura K, Terai T, Kohara Y, Sho M. Clinical impact of sarcopenia in early-stage intrahepatic recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma: an association with impaired host immunity. Langenbecks Arch Surg 2023; 408:433. [PMID: 37950033 DOI: 10.1007/s00423-023-03170-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study investigated the role of sarcopenia in the long-term outcomes of patients with early-stage intrahepatic recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). METHODS The study included 136 patients with intrahepatic recurrent Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) stage 0/A HCC following liver resection diagnosed between 2006 and 2020 and underwent surgery, radiofrequency ablation (RFA), or transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE). Sarcopenia was defined based on the skeletal muscle index using computed tomography at the time of recurrence, and its association with long-term outcomes was evaluated. Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (CD4 + , CD8 + , and CD45RO + T cells) were assayed using immunohistochemistry on specimens obtained from repeat hepatectomies, and their association with sarcopenia was evaluated. RESULTS The overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS) rates after initial recurrence of patients with sarcopenia were significantly lower than those without sarcopenia (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively). Multivariate analysis identified sarcopenia as an independent prognostic factor for RFS (p < 0.001). In patients without sarcopenia, surgery resulted in better RFS than RFA or TACE. Contrastingly, in patients with sarcopenia, the RFS was extremely poor regardless of the treatment type: surgery, RFA, or TACE (median RFS, 11.7, 12.7, and 10.1 months). Significantly low levels of tumor-infiltrating CD4 + , CD8 + , and CD45RO + lymphocytes were observed in patients with sarcopenia (p = 0.001, p = 0.001, and p = 0.001, respectively). CONCLUSIONS This study suggests that patients with sarcopenia have poor RFS regardless of the treatment type for early-stage intrahepatic recurrent HCC. Impaired host immunity might be one of the underlying mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shunsuke Doi
- Department of Surgery, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-Cho, Kashihara, Nara, 634-8522, Japan
| | - Satoshi Yasuda
- Department of Surgery, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-Cho, Kashihara, Nara, 634-8522, Japan.
| | - Yasuko Matsuo
- Department of Surgery, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-Cho, Kashihara, Nara, 634-8522, Japan
| | - Takeshi Sakata
- Department of Surgery, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-Cho, Kashihara, Nara, 634-8522, Japan
| | - Satoshi Nishiwada
- Department of Surgery, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-Cho, Kashihara, Nara, 634-8522, Japan
| | - Minako Nagai
- Department of Surgery, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-Cho, Kashihara, Nara, 634-8522, Japan
| | - Kota Nakamura
- Department of Surgery, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-Cho, Kashihara, Nara, 634-8522, Japan
| | - Taichi Terai
- Department of Surgery, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-Cho, Kashihara, Nara, 634-8522, Japan
| | - Yuichiro Kohara
- Department of Surgery, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-Cho, Kashihara, Nara, 634-8522, Japan
| | - Masayuki Sho
- Department of Surgery, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-Cho, Kashihara, Nara, 634-8522, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Qin Q, Kou X, Zheng Y, Zhou F, Zhang X, Liu H. Early C-reactive Protein Kinetics Predict Response to Immune Checkpoint Blockade in Unresectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma. J Hepatocell Carcinoma 2023; 10:2009-2019. [PMID: 37954495 PMCID: PMC10637213 DOI: 10.2147/jhc.s432054] [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: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose In recent years, a new therapeutic approach, known as immune checkpoint blockade (ICB), has been proposed as approach to improve outcomes in patients with intermediate stage (Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer, BCLC B) or advanced stage (BCLC C) hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Unfortunately, only a select patients can benefit from ICB. Hence, biomarkers that can predict the success and survival of treatment are still necessary. Patients and Methods Between 2018 to 2021, 132 patients received ICB treatment for intermediate or advanced stage HCC. Based on the early kinetics of C-reactive protein (CRP), the patients were classified into three groups. The study endpoints were progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). Results Our findings support the predictive power of early CRP kinetics in determining immunotherapy response for intermediate or advanced HCC. Objective response rates (ORR) were found in 41.2% of CRP flare-responders, 13.3% of CRP responders, and 3.5% of CRP non-responders (p<0.001). Disease control rates (DCR) in the three groups were substantially different (p<0.001). The improved PFS and OS were strongly correlated with the early kinetics of CRP. Compared to CRP non-responders, CRP responders, especially CRP flare-responders, had significantly longer PFS (median PFS: CRP flare-responders: 11.6 months vs CRP responders: 5.2 months vs CRP non-responders: 2.3 months, p<0.001). Conclusion The CRP flare response robustly predicts the immunotherapy response and outcomes in patients with HCC. Early CRP kinetics may be an inexpensive, easily implemented and non-invasive biomarker to anticipate response to ICB therapy in intermediate or advanced HCC, with the potential to optimize treatment monitoring.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiuying Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases Research in South China (Southern Medical University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaoxuan Kou
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases Research in South China (Southern Medical University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yuanyuan Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases Research in South China (Southern Medical University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Fei Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases Research in South China (Southern Medical University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaoyong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases Research in South China (Southern Medical University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hongyan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure Research, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Viral Hepatitis Research, Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases Research in South China (Southern Medical University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Hamza A, Cho JY, Cap KC, Hossain AJ, Kim JG, Park JB. Extracellular pyruvate kinase M2 induces cell migration through p-Tyr42 RhoA-mediated superoxide generation and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Free Radic Biol Med 2023; 208:614-629. [PMID: 37722568 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2023.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
In the tumor microenvironment (TME), communication between cancer cells and tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) through secreted extracellular proteins promotes cancer progression. Here, we observed that co-culturing cancer cells (4T1) and macrophage cells (Raw264.7) significantly enhanced superoxide production in both cell types. Using MALDI-TOF, we identified PKM2 as a highly secreted protein by Raw264.7 cells and bone marrow-derived monocytes. The extracellular recombinant PKM2 protein not only enhanced cancer cell migration and invasion but also increased superoxide production. Additionally, PKM2 was found to associate with the cell surface, and its binding to integrin α5/β1 receptor was inhibited by antibodies specifically targeting it. Furthermore, we investigated downstream signaling pathways involved in PKM2-induced superoxide production. We found that knock-down of RhoA and p47phox using siRNAs effectively abolished superoxide generation in response to extracellular PKM2. Notably, extracellular PKM2 triggered the phosphorylation of p47phox at Ser345 residue and RhoA at Tyr42 residue (p-Tyr42 RhoA). Moreover, extracellular PKM2 exerted regulatory control over the expression of key epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers, including ZEB1, Snail1, vimentin, and E-cadherin. Interestingly, p-Tyr42 RhoA translocated to the nucleus, where it bound to the ZEB1 promoter region. In light of these findings, we propose that extracellular PKM2 within the TME plays a critical role in tumorigenesis by promoting cancer cell migration and invasion through RhoA/p47phox signaling pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amir Hamza
- Department of Biochemistry, Hallym University College of Medicine, Chuncheon, Kangwon-do, 24252, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Yoon Cho
- Institute of Cell Differentiation and Aging, Hallym University College of Medicine, Chuncheon, Kangwon-do, 24252, Republic of Korea
| | - Kim Cuong Cap
- Department of Biochemistry, Hallym University College of Medicine, Chuncheon, Kangwon-do, 24252, Republic of Korea; Institute of Cell Differentiation and Aging, Hallym University College of Medicine, Chuncheon, Kangwon-do, 24252, Republic of Korea
| | - Abu Jubayer Hossain
- Department of Biochemistry, Hallym University College of Medicine, Chuncheon, Kangwon-do, 24252, Republic of Korea; Institute of Cell Differentiation and Aging, Hallym University College of Medicine, Chuncheon, Kangwon-do, 24252, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Gyu Kim
- Department of Biochemistry, Hallym University College of Medicine, Chuncheon, Kangwon-do, 24252, Republic of Korea; Institute of Cell Differentiation and Aging, Hallym University College of Medicine, Chuncheon, Kangwon-do, 24252, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae-Bong Park
- Department of Biochemistry, Hallym University College of Medicine, Chuncheon, Kangwon-do, 24252, Republic of Korea; Institute of Cell Differentiation and Aging, Hallym University College of Medicine, Chuncheon, Kangwon-do, 24252, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Fanoodi A, Maharati A, Akhlaghipour I, Rahimi HR, Moghbeli M. MicroRNAs as the critical regulators of tumor angiogenesis in liver cancer. Pathol Res Pract 2023; 251:154913. [PMID: 37931431 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.154913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
Liver cancer is one of the most common malignancies in human digestive system. Despite the recent therapeutic methods, there is a high rate of mortality among liver cancer patients. Late diagnosis in the advanced tumor stages can be one of the main reasons for the poor prognosis in these patients. Therefore, investigating the molecular mechanisms of liver cancer can be helpful for the early stage tumor detection and treatment. Vascular expansion in liver tumors can be one of the important reasons for poor prognosis and aggressiveness. Therefore, anti-angiogenic drugs are widely used in liver cancer patients. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have key roles in the regulation of angiogenesis in liver tumors. Due to the high stability of miRNAs in body fluids, these factors are widely used as the non-invasive diagnostic and prognostic markers in cancer patients. Regarding, the importance of angiogenesis during liver tumor growth and invasion, in the present review, we discussed the role of miRNAs in regulation of angiogenesis in these tumors. It has been reported that miRNAs mainly exert an anti-angiogenic function by regulation of tumor microenvironment, transcription factors, and signaling pathways in liver tumors. This review can be an effective step to suggest the miRNAs for the non-invasive early detection of malignant and invasive liver tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ali Fanoodi
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Amirhosein Maharati
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Iman Akhlaghipour
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hamid Reza Rahimi
- Department of Medical Genetics and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Meysam Moghbeli
- Department of Medical Genetics and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Ferrandino G, Ricciardi F, Murgia A, Banda I, Manhota M, Ahmed Y, Sweeney K, Nicholson-Scott L, McConville L, Gandelman O, Allsworth M, Boyle B, Smolinska A, Ginesta Frings CA, Contreras J, Asenjo-Lobos C, Barrientos V, Clavo N, Novoa A, Riviotta A, Jerez M, Méndez L. Exogenous Volatile Organic Compound (EVOC ®) Breath Testing Maximizes Classification Performance for Subjects with Cirrhosis and Reveals Signs of Portal Hypertension. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2957. [PMID: 38001958 PMCID: PMC10669625 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11112957] [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: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Cirrhosis detection in primary care relies on low-performing biomarkers. Consequently, up to 75% of subjects with cirrhosis receive their first diagnosis with decompensation when causal treatments are less effective at preserving liver function. We investigated an unprecedented approach to cirrhosis detection based on dynamic breath testing. Methods: We enrolled 29 subjects with cirrhosis (Child-Pugh A and B), and 29 controls. All subjects fasted overnight. Breath samples were taken using Breath Biopsy® before and at different time points after the administration of 100 mg limonene. Absolute limonene breath levels were measured using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Results: All subjects showed a >100-fold limonene spike in breath after administration compared to baseline. Limonene breath kinetics showed first-order decay in >90% of the participants, with higher bioavailability in the cirrhosis group. At the Youden index, baseline limonene levels showed classification performance with an area under the roc curve (AUROC) of 0.83 ± 0.012, sensitivity of 0.66 ± 0.09, and specificity of 0.83 ± 0.07. The best performing timepoint post-administration was 60 min, with an AUROC of 0.91, sensitivity of 0.83 ± 0.07, and specificity of 0.9 ± 0.06. In the cirrhosis group, limonene bioavailability showed a correlation with MELD and fibrosis indicators, and was associated with signs of portal hypertension. Conclusions: Dynamic limonene breath testing enhances diagnostic performance for cirrhosis compared to static testing. The correlation with disease severity suggests potential for monitoring therapeutic interventions. Given the non-invasive nature of breath collection, a dynamic limonene breath test could be implemented in primary care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Ferrandino
- Owlstone Medical, 183 Cambridge Science Park, Milton Road, Cambridge CB4 0GJ, UK
| | - Federico Ricciardi
- Owlstone Medical, 183 Cambridge Science Park, Milton Road, Cambridge CB4 0GJ, UK
| | - Antonio Murgia
- Owlstone Medical, 183 Cambridge Science Park, Milton Road, Cambridge CB4 0GJ, UK
| | - Iris Banda
- Owlstone Medical, 183 Cambridge Science Park, Milton Road, Cambridge CB4 0GJ, UK
| | - Menisha Manhota
- Owlstone Medical, 183 Cambridge Science Park, Milton Road, Cambridge CB4 0GJ, UK
| | - Yusuf Ahmed
- Owlstone Medical, 183 Cambridge Science Park, Milton Road, Cambridge CB4 0GJ, UK
| | - Kelly Sweeney
- Owlstone Medical, 183 Cambridge Science Park, Milton Road, Cambridge CB4 0GJ, UK
| | | | - Lucinda McConville
- Owlstone Medical, 183 Cambridge Science Park, Milton Road, Cambridge CB4 0GJ, UK
| | - Olga Gandelman
- Owlstone Medical, 183 Cambridge Science Park, Milton Road, Cambridge CB4 0GJ, UK
| | - Max Allsworth
- Owlstone Medical, 183 Cambridge Science Park, Milton Road, Cambridge CB4 0GJ, UK
| | - Billy Boyle
- Owlstone Medical, 183 Cambridge Science Park, Milton Road, Cambridge CB4 0GJ, UK
| | - Agnieszka Smolinska
- Owlstone Medical, 183 Cambridge Science Park, Milton Road, Cambridge CB4 0GJ, UK
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School for Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism (NUTRIM), Maastricht University Medical Center, 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Carmen A. Ginesta Frings
- Unidad de Gastroenterología y Endoscopía, Clínica Alemana, Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana, Universidad de Desarrollo, Santiago 7650568, Chile
- Unidad de Endoscopia, Hospital Padre Hurtado, Santiago 8880465, Chile
| | - Jorge Contreras
- Unidad de Gastroenterología y Endoscopía, Clínica Alemana, Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana, Universidad de Desarrollo, Santiago 7650568, Chile
| | - Claudia Asenjo-Lobos
- Centro de Estudios Clínicos, Instituto de Ciencias e Innovación en Medicina (ICIM), Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago 7610315, Chile
| | | | - Nataly Clavo
- Unidad de Endoscopia, Hospital Padre Hurtado, Santiago 8880465, Chile
| | - Angela Novoa
- Laboratorio de Fisiología Digestiva, Clínica Alemana, Santiago 7650568, Chile
| | - Amy Riviotta
- Centro de Estudios Clínicos, Instituto de Ciencias e Innovación en Medicina (ICIM), Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago 7610315, Chile
| | - Melissa Jerez
- Nursing School, Universidad de Las Américas, Santiago 8242125, Chile
| | - Luis Méndez
- Unidad de Gastroenterología y Endoscopía, Clínica Alemana, Facultad de Medicina Clínica Alemana, Universidad de Desarrollo, Santiago 7650568, Chile
- Unidad de Endoscopia, Hospital Padre Hurtado, Santiago 8880465, Chile
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Escutia-Gutiérrez R, Sandoval-Rodríguez A, Zamudio-Ojeda A, Guevara-Martínez SJ, Armendáriz-Borunda J. Advances of Nanotechnology in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. J Clin Med 2023; 12:6867. [PMID: 37959332 PMCID: PMC10647688 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12216867] [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: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/22/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Nanotechnology has emerged as a promising technology in the field of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), specifically in the implementation of diagnosis and treatment strategies. Nanotechnology-based approaches, such as nanoparticle-based contrast agents and nanoscale imaging techniques, have shown great potential for enhancing the sensitivity and specificity of HCC detection. These approaches provide high-resolution imaging and allow for the detection of molecular markers and alterations in cellular morphology associated with HCC. In terms of treatment, nanotechnology has revolutionized HCC therapy by enabling targeted drug delivery, enhancing therapeutic efficacy, and minimizing off-target effects. Nanoparticle-based drug carriers can be functionalized with ligands specific to HCC cells, allowing for selective accumulation of therapeutic agents at the tumor site. Furthermore, nanotechnology can facilitate combination therapy by co-encapsulating multiple drugs within a single nanoparticle, allowing for synergistic effects and overcoming drug resistance. This review aims to provide an overview of recent advances in nanotechnology-based approaches for the diagnosis and treatment of HCC. Further research is needed to optimize the design and functionality of nanoparticles, improve their biocompatibility and stability, and evaluate their long-term safety and efficacy. Nonetheless, the integration of nanotechnology in HCC management holds great promise and may lead to improved patient outcomes in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rebeca Escutia-Gutiérrez
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genomics, Institute for Molecular Biology in Medicine and Gene Therapy, Health Sciences University Center, University of Guadalajara, Guadalajara 44340, Mexico; (R.E.-G.); (A.S.-R.)
| | - Ana Sandoval-Rodríguez
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genomics, Institute for Molecular Biology in Medicine and Gene Therapy, Health Sciences University Center, University of Guadalajara, Guadalajara 44340, Mexico; (R.E.-G.); (A.S.-R.)
| | - Adalberto Zamudio-Ojeda
- Department of Physics, Exact Sciences and Engineering University Center, University of Guadalajara, Guadalajara 44340, Mexico;
| | - Santiago José Guevara-Martínez
- Department of Physics, Exact Sciences and Engineering University Center, University of Guadalajara, Guadalajara 44340, Mexico;
| | - Juan Armendáriz-Borunda
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genomics, Institute for Molecular Biology in Medicine and Gene Therapy, Health Sciences University Center, University of Guadalajara, Guadalajara 44340, Mexico; (R.E.-G.); (A.S.-R.)
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Zapopan 45201, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Zhong Z, Xie F, Yin J, Zhao H, Zhou Y, Guo K, Li R, Wang Q, Tang B. Development of a prognostic model for anoikis and identifies hub genes in hepatocellular carcinoma. Sci Rep 2023; 13:14723. [PMID: 37679418 PMCID: PMC10484901 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-41139-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Considering the high fatality of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), current prognostic systems are insufficient to accurately forecast HCC patients' outcomes. In our study, nine anoikis‑related genes (PTRH2, ITGAV, ANXA5, BIRC5, BDNF, BSG, DAP3, SKP2, and EGF) were determined to establish a risk scoring model using LASSO regression, which could be validated in ICGC dataset. Kaplan-Meier curves and time-dependent receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis confirmed the risk score possessed an accurate predictive value for the prognosis of HCC patients. The high-risk group showed a higher infiltration of aDCs, macrophages, T-follicular helper cells, and Th2 cells. Besides, PD-L1 was significantly higher in the high-risk group compared to the low-risk group. Several anoikis‑related genes, such as ANX5, ITGAV, BDNF and SKP2, were associated with drug sensitivity in HCC. Finally, we identified BIRC5 and SKP2 as hub genes among the nine model genes using WGCNA analysis. BIRC5 and SKP2 were over-expressed in HCC tissues, and their over-expression was associated with poor prognosis, no matter in our cohort by immunohistochemical staining or in the TCGA cohort by mRNA-Seq. In our cohort, BIRC5 expression was highly associated with the T stage, pathologic stage, histologic grade and AFP of HCC patients. In general, our anoikis-related risk model can enhance the ability to predict the survival outcomes of HCC patients and provide a feasible therapeutic strategy for immunotherapy and drug resistance in HCC. BIRC5 and SKP2 are hub genes of anoikis‑related genes in HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhiwei Zhong
- Department of Infectious Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116023, People's Republic of China
| | - Fuchun Xie
- Department of Radiology, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, 510080, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiajun Yin
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital of Dalian University, Dalian, 116300, People's Republic of China
| | - Hua Zhao
- Department of Hematology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116023, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuehan Zhou
- Department of Hematology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116023, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
| | - Kun Guo
- Department of Pathology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116023, Liaoning, People's Republic of China
| | - Rongkuan Li
- Department of Infectious Disease, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116023, People's Republic of China.
| | - Qimin Wang
- Department of Pathology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116023, Liaoning, People's Republic of China.
| | - Bo Tang
- Department of Hematology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, 116023, Liaoning, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Zheng HC, Xue H, Yun WJ. An overview of mouse models of hepatocellular carcinoma. Infect Agent Cancer 2023; 18:49. [PMID: 37670307 PMCID: PMC10481604 DOI: 10.1186/s13027-023-00524-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has become a severe burden on global health due to its high morbidity and mortality rates. However, effective treatments for HCC are limited. The lack of suitable preclinical models may contribute to a major failure of drug development for HCC. Here, we overview several well-established mouse models of HCC, including genetically engineered mice, chemically-induced models, implantation models, and humanized mice. Immunotherapy studies of HCC have been a hot topic. Therefore, we will introduce the application of mouse models of HCC in immunotherapy. This is followed by a discussion of some other models of HCC-related liver diseases, including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), hepatitis B and C virus infection, and liver fibrosis and cirrhosis. Together these provide researchers with a current overview of the mouse models of HCC and assist in the application of appropriate models for their research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hua-Chuan Zheng
- Department of Oncology and Central Laboratory, The Affiliated Hospital of Chengde Medical University, Chengde, 067000, China.
| | - Hang Xue
- Department of Oncology and Central Laboratory, The Affiliated Hospital of Chengde Medical University, Chengde, 067000, China
| | - Wen-Jing Yun
- Department of Oncology and Central Laboratory, The Affiliated Hospital of Chengde Medical University, Chengde, 067000, China
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Chen W, Ding M, Ji L, Yao J, Guo Y, Yan W, Yu S, Shen Q, Huang M, Zheng Y, Lin Y, Wang Y, Liu Z, Lu L, Jin X. Bile acids promote the development of HCC by activating inflammasome. Hepatol Commun 2023; 7:e0217. [PMID: 37556375 PMCID: PMC10412435 DOI: 10.1097/hc9.0000000000000217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is associated with chronic inflammation caused by different factors; especially, the interaction of inflammatory pathways and bile acids (BAs) can affect hepatocyte proliferation, death, and regeneration, but whether BAs promote HCC progression through inflammatory pathways and the mechanisms is still unclear. METHODS AND RESULTS By examining cancer and tumor-adjacent tissue BA levels and genes associated with BA homeostasis in 37 HCC patients, we found that total bile acids (TBAs) were decreased by 36% and varying degrees of changes in factors regulating BA homeostasis (p < 0.05). In addition, we found that BA homeostasis was disturbed in diethylnitrosamine-induced HCC mouse models, and TBA was correlated with inflammasome activation during HCC progression (6-24 W) (p < 0.05). Similarly, the inflammasome and chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) content were suppressed in cholestasis model mice (Mrp2-deficient mice) (p < 0.05). In vitro, CDCA significantly promoted the malignant transformation of hepatocytes (p < 0.001), activated the inflammasome by triggering the release of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species and mitochondrial DNA, and ultimately induced pyroptosis. Furthermore, we found that CDCA has a targeted binding effect with HO-1 through molecular docking and Cellular Thermal Shift Assay experiments. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, we found that CDCA can trigger the excessive accumulation of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species by targeting HO-1 to promote the activation of the inflammasome and ultimately promote the progression of HCC. Our study provides a novel mechanism by which BAs promote HCC by activating the inflammasome and establishes the important role of BA homeostasis imbalance in the progression of HCC from the aspect of inflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenbo Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicines, Joint International Research Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicines, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ming Ding
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicines, Joint International Research Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicines, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Liyan Ji
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicines, Joint International Research Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicines, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jingjing Yao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicines, Joint International Research Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicines, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yajuan Guo
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicines, Joint International Research Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicines, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenxin Yan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicines, Joint International Research Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicines, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shaofang Yu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicines, Joint International Research Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicines, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qinghong Shen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicines, Joint International Research Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicines, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Min Huang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicines, Joint International Research Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicines, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yaqiu Zheng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicines, Joint International Research Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicines, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuefang Lin
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicines, Joint International Research Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicines, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicines, Joint International Research Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicines, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhongqiu Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicines, Joint International Research Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicines, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, SAR, China
| | - Linlin Lu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicines, Joint International Research Laboratory of Translational Cancer Research of Chinese Medicines, International Institute for Translational Chinese Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, SAR, China
| | - Xin Jin
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- The First Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Fan S, Liu Y, Lin Z, Zhang Y, Zhang N, Zhao Y, Zhou J, Mao A, Wang L, Feng Y, He X, Wang L, Pan Q. ZNF655 promotes the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma through PSMB8. Cell Biol Int 2023; 47:1535-1546. [PMID: 37272200 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.12050] [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: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a type of liver cancer that is associated with high mortality rates. This study aims to investigate the role of ZNF655, a member of the zinc finger protein family, in the development of HCC. Immunohistochemical staining analysis was conducted to evaluate the expression of ZNF655 in HCC patient samples. Lentivirus-mediated ZNF655 knockdown was established in HCC cell lines (BEL-7402 and HCCLM3). The effects of ZNF655 on different aspects of HCC cell behavior such as proliferation, apoptosis, cycle, migration and tumor formation were examined. Downstream targets of ZNF655 in HCC were identified and verified through loss/gain-of-function experiments. Clinically, ZNF655 expression was elevated in HCC and increased with the severity of the disease. Functionally, inhibition of ZNF655 expression reduced the progression of HCC cells by decreasing proliferation, causing apoptosis, arresting cell cycle retention in G2, suppressing migration, and attenuating tumor formation in mice. Mechanistically, the proteasome subunit beta type-8 (PSMB8) was found to be co-expressed with ZNF655 in HCC, and PSMB8 knockdown weakened the promotion of ZNF655 overexpression on HCC. In summary, these findings suggest that ZNF655 promotes the progression of HCC through PSMB8, and inhibition of its expression may be a promising therapeutic target for HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shasha Fan
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital, Key Laboratory of Study and Discovery of Small Targeted Molecules of Hunan Province, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yu Liu
- Department of Pathology, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zhenhai Lin
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yongfa Zhang
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ning Zhang
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yiming Zhao
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiaming Zhou
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Anrong Mao
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Longrong Wang
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yun Feng
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xigan He
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lu Wang
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qi Pan
- Department of Hepatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Bezjak M, Kocman B, Jadrijević S, Filipec Kanižaj T, Antonijević M, Dalbelo Bašić B, Mikulić D. Use of machine learning models for identification of predictors of survival and tumour recurrence in liver transplant recipients with hepatocellular carcinoma. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2023; 11:345. [PMID: 37675331 PMCID: PMC10477658 DOI: 10.21037/atm-22-6469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
Background Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading indications for liver transplantation (LT) however, selection criteria remain controversial. We aimed to identify survival factors and predictors for tumour recurrence using machine learning (ML) methods. We also compared ML models to the Cox regression model. Methods Thirty pretransplant donor and recipient general and tumour specific parameters were analysed from 170 patients who underwent orthotopic liver transplantation for HCC between March 2013 and December 2019 at the University Hospital Merkur, Zagreb. Survival rates were calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method and multivariate analysis was performed using the Cox proportional hazards regression model. Data was also processed through Coxnet (a regularized Cox regression model), Random Survival Forest (RSF), Survival Support Vector Machine (SVM) and Survival Gradient Boosting models, which included pre-processing, variable selection, imputation of missing data, training and cross-validation of the models. The cross-validated concordance index (CI) was used as an evaluation metric and to determine the best performing model. Results Kaplan-Meier curves for 5-year survival time showed survival probability of 80% for recipient survival and 82% for graft survival. The 5-year HCC recurrence was observed in 19% of patients. The best predictive accuracy was observed in the RSF model with CI of 0.72, followed by the Survival SVM model (CI 0.70). Overall ML models outperform the Cox regression model with respect to their limitations. Random Forest analysis provided several relevant outcome predictors: alpha fetoprotein (AFP), donor C-reactive protein (CRP), recipient age and neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR). Cox multivariate analysis showed similarities with RSF models in identifying detrimental variables. Some variables such as donor age and number of transarterial chemoembolization treatments (TACE) were pointed out, but these were not influential in our RSF model. Conclusions Using ML methods in addition to classical statistical analysis, it is possible to develop sufficient prognostic models, which, compared to established risk scores, could help us quantify survival probability and make changes in organ utilization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miran Bezjak
- Division of Abdominal Surgery and Organ Transplantation, Department of Surgery, University Hospital Merkur, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Branislav Kocman
- Division of Abdominal Surgery and Organ Transplantation, Department of Surgery, University Hospital Merkur, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Stipislav Jadrijević
- Division of Abdominal Surgery and Organ Transplantation, Department of Surgery, University Hospital Merkur, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Tajana Filipec Kanižaj
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Merkur, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | - Bojana Dalbelo Bašić
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing, Department of Electronics, Microelectronics, Computer and Intelligent Systems, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Danko Mikulić
- Division of Abdominal Surgery and Organ Transplantation, Department of Surgery, University Hospital Merkur, Zagreb, Croatia
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Coffin P, He A. Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Past and Present Challenges and Progress in Molecular Classification and Precision Oncology. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13274. [PMID: 37686079 PMCID: PMC10487618 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common solid tumor malignancies in the world and represents roughly 90% of all primary malignancies of the liver. The most common risk factors for HCC include hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus, alcohol, and increasingly, fatty liver. Most HCC is diagnosed at advanced stages, excluding the possibility of curative resection, which leaves systemic therapy as the only treatment option. However, given the extreme mutational diversity and heterogenous nature of HCC, efforts to develop new targeted systemic therapies were largely unsuccessful until recently. HCC pathogenesis is thought to be a multistage process driven by a wide array of nonmutually exclusive driver mutations accompanied by many passenger mutations, with the average tumor possessing approximately 40 genomic aberrations. Over the past two decades, several efforts to categorize HCC prognostically and therapeutically according to different molecular subclassifications with the intent to guide treatment and identify drug targets have emerged, though, no single consensus has been reached. Recent breakthroughs in drug development have greatly expanded treatment options, but the ideal of uniting each patient's unique HCC with a targeted systemic therapy remains elusive.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Philip Coffin
- MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Lombardi Cancer Center, 3800 Reservoir Rd NW, Washington, DC 20007, USA;
| | | |
Collapse
|
43
|
Sara A, Ruff SM, Noonan AM, Pawlik TM. Real-World Use of Immunotherapy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Pragmat Obs Res 2023; 14:63-74. [PMID: 37637511 PMCID: PMC10455985 DOI: 10.2147/por.s397972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third most common cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide and accounts for 90% of all primary liver cancers. Chronic inflammation is the hallmark across most prevalent etiologies among which HBV is the leading cause worldwide (33%), followed by alcohol (30%), HCV (21%), other factors like non-alcoholic steatohepatitis linked to insulin resistance/metabolic syndrome, and obesity associated inflammation (16%). Deregulation of the tightly controlled immunological network leads to liver disease, including chronic infection, autoimmunity, and tumor development. While inflammation drives oncogenesis in the liver, HCC also recruits ICOS+ FOXP3+ Tregs and MDSCs and upregulates immune checkpoints to induce a state of immunosuppression in the tumor microenvironment. As such, research is focused on targeting and modulating the immune system to treat HCC. The Checkmate 040 and Keynote 224 studies established the role of immunotherapy in the treatment of patients with HCC. In Phase I and II trials, nivolumab and pembrolizumab demonstrated durable response rates of 15-20% and were subsequently approved as second-line agents after sorafenib. Due to the success of the IMbrave 150 and HIMALAYA trials, which examined the combination of atezolizumab/bevacizumab and tremelimumab/durvalumab, respectively, the FDA approved these regimens as first-time treatment options for patients with advanced HCC. The encouraging results of immunotherapy in the management of HCC has led researchers to evaluate if combination with locoregional therapies may result in a synergistic effect. Real-world studies represent an invaluable tool to assess and verify the applicability of clinical trials in the bedside setting with a more varied patient population. We herein review current real-life use of ICIs in the management of HCC and highlight some of the ongoing clinical trials that are expected to change current recommended first-line treatment in the near future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amir Sara
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Samantha M Ruff
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Anne M Noonan
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Timothy M Pawlik
- Department of Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Radić J, Kožik B, Nikolić I, Kolarov-Bjelobrk I, Vasiljević T, Vranjković B, Despotović S. Multiple Roles of LOXL2 in the Progression of Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Its Potential for Therapeutic Targeting. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11745. [PMID: 37511503 PMCID: PMC10380739 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411745] [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: 06/10/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
LOXL2, a copper-dependent amine oxidase, has emerged as a promising therapeutic target in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Increased LOXL2 expression in HCC has been linked with an aggressive phenotype and represents a poor prognostic factor. Here, we focus on the mechanisms through which LOXL2 orchestrates multiple oncogenic functions in HCC development. We performed a review of the current knowledge on the roles LOXL2 performs in the modulation of the HCC tumor microenvironment, formation of premetastatic niches, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. We also highlighted the complex interplay between LOXL2 and hypoxia, angiogenesis, and vasculogenic mimicry in HCC. At the end of the review, we summarize the current LOXL2 inhibitors and discuss their potential in HCC precision treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jelena Radić
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, 21137 Novi Sad, Serbia
- Department of Medical Oncology, Oncology Institute of Vojvodina, 21204 Sremska Kamenica, Serbia
| | - Bojana Kožik
- Laboratory for Radiobiology and Molecular Genetics, Vinča Institute of Nuclear Sciences-National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, 11100 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ivan Nikolić
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, 21137 Novi Sad, Serbia
- Department of Medical Oncology, Oncology Institute of Vojvodina, 21204 Sremska Kamenica, Serbia
| | - Ivana Kolarov-Bjelobrk
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, 21137 Novi Sad, Serbia
- Department of Medical Oncology, Oncology Institute of Vojvodina, 21204 Sremska Kamenica, Serbia
| | - Tijana Vasiljević
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Novi Sad, 21137 Novi Sad, Serbia
- Department of Pathology, Oncology Institute of Vojvodina, 21204 Sremska Kamenica, Serbia
| | - Bojana Vranjković
- Department of Medical Oncology, Oncology Institute of Vojvodina, 21204 Sremska Kamenica, Serbia
| | - Sanja Despotović
- Institute of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Yi Q, Yang J, Wu Y, Wang Y, Cao Q, Wen W. Immune microenvironment changes of liver cirrhosis: emerging role of mesenchymal stromal cells. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1204524. [PMID: 37539053 PMCID: PMC10395751 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1204524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Cirrhosis is a progressive and diffuse liver disease characterized by liver tissue fibrosis and impaired liver function. This condition is brought about by several factors, including chronic hepatitis, hepatic steatosis, alcohol abuse, and other immunological injuries. The pathogenesis of liver cirrhosis is a complex process that involves the interaction of various immune cells and cytokines, which work together to create the hepatic homeostasis imbalance in the liver. Some studies have indicated that alterations in the immune microenvironment of liver cirrhosis are closely linked to the development and prognosis of the disease. The noteworthy function of mesenchymal stem cells and their paracrine secretion lies in their ability to promote the production of cytokines, which in turn enhance the self-repairing capabilities of tissues. The objective of this review is to provide a summary of the alterations in liver homeostasis and to discuss intercellular communication within the organ. Recent research on MSCs is yielding a blueprint for cell typing and biomarker immunoregulation. Hopefully, as MSCs researches continue to progress, novel therapeutic approaches will emerge to address cirrhosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiuyun Yi
- National Center for Liver Cancer, Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
- International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, China
| | - Jinxian Yang
- National Center for Liver Cancer, Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
- International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, China
| | - Ying Wu
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Changhai Hospital, Naval Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Laboratory Diagnosis, Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, China
| | - Qiqi Cao
- National Center for Liver Cancer, Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
- International Cooperation Laboratory on Signal Transduction, Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, China
| | - Wen Wen
- National Center for Liver Cancer, Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Laboratory Diagnosis, Third Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University (Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Zheng Y, Gao K, Gao Q, Zhang S. Glycoproteomic contributions to hepatocellular carcinoma research: a 2023 update. Expert Rev Proteomics 2023; 20:211-220. [PMID: 37882248 DOI: 10.1080/14789450.2023.2265064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) represents a significant burden globally, which ranks sixth among the most frequently diagnosed cancers and stands as the third leading cause of cancer-related mortality. Glycoproteomics, as an important branch of proteomics, has already made significant achievements in the field of HCC research. Aberrant protein glycosylation has shown to promote the malignant transformation of hepatocytes by modulating a wide range of tumor-promoting signaling pathways. The glycoproteome provides valuable information for understanding cancer progression, tumor immunity, and clinical outcome, which could serve as potential diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic tools in HCC. AREAS COVERED In this review, recent advances of glycoproteomics contribute to clinical applications (diagnosis and prognosis) and molecular mechanisms (hepatocarcinogenesis, progression, stemness and recurrence, and drug resistance) of HCC are summarized. EXPERT OPINION Glycoproteomics shows promise in HCC, enhancing early detection, risk stratification, and personalized treatments. Challenges include sample heterogeneity, diverse glycans structures, sensitivity issues, complex workflows, limited databases, and incomplete understanding of immune cell glycosylation. Addressing these limitations requires collaborative efforts, technological advancements, standardization, and validation studies. Future research should focus on targeting abnormal protein glycosylation therapeutically. Advancements in glycobiomarkers and glycosylation-targeted therapies will greatly impact HCC diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yingqi Zheng
- Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, and Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Ministry of Education), Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ke Gao
- Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, and Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Ministry of Education), Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiang Gao
- Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, and Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Ministry of Education), Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shu Zhang
- Department of Liver Surgery and Transplantation, Liver Cancer Institute, Zhongshan Hospital, and Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion (Ministry of Education), Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Xie J, Li F, Cai Y, Zhang J, Zhang Y, Zhai Z, Su Z, Chen X, Lei M, Liu R, Li W, Kang D, Chen X, Hong A. SAIF plays anti-angiogenesis via blocking VEGF-VEGFR2-ERK signal in tumor treatment. Heliyon 2023; 9:e18240. [PMID: 37539189 PMCID: PMC10395482 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e18240] [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: 02/18/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Shark cartilage was created as a cancer-fighting diet because it was believed to have an element that may suppress tumor growth. Due to overfishing, sharks have become endangered recently, making it impossible to harvest natural components from shark cartilage for therapeutic development research. Previously, we identified a peptide SAIF from shark cartilage with an-tiangiogenic and anti-tumor effects, successfully expressed it in Escherichia coli by using genetic engineering techniques. However, we did not elucidate the specific target of SAIF and its antiangiogenic molecular mechanism, which hindered its further drug development. Therefore, in this work, the exact mechanism of action was studied using various techniques, including cellular and in vivo animal models, computer-aided simulation, molecular target capture, and transcriptome sequencing analysis. With VEGF-VEGFR2 interaction and preventing the activation of VEGFR2/ERK signaling pathways, SAIF was discovered to decrease angiogenesis and hence significantly limit tumor development. The findings further demonstrated SAIF's strong safety and pharmaceutically potential. The evidence showed that SAIF, which is expressed by, is a potent and safe angiogenesis inhibitor and might be developed as a candidate peptide drug for the treatment of solid tumors such as hepatocellular carcinoma and other conditions linked with angiogenic overgrowth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Junye Xie
- Institute of Biomedicine & Department of Cell Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Biotechnology Drug & Engineering Technology Research Center; National Engineering Research Center of Genetic Medicine, Ji'nan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Fu Li
- Institute of Biomedicine & Department of Cell Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Biotechnology Drug & Engineering Technology Research Center; National Engineering Research Center of Genetic Medicine, Ji'nan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Yuling Cai
- Institute of Biomedicine & Department of Cell Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Biotechnology Drug & Engineering Technology Research Center; National Engineering Research Center of Genetic Medicine, Ji'nan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Jinting Zhang
- Institute of Biomedicine & Department of Cell Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Biotechnology Drug & Engineering Technology Research Center; National Engineering Research Center of Genetic Medicine, Ji'nan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Yibo Zhang
- Institute of Biomedicine & Department of Cell Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Biotechnology Drug & Engineering Technology Research Center; National Engineering Research Center of Genetic Medicine, Ji'nan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Zhaodong Zhai
- Institute of Biomedicine & Department of Cell Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Biotechnology Drug & Engineering Technology Research Center; National Engineering Research Center of Genetic Medicine, Ji'nan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Zijian Su
- Institute of Biomedicine & Department of Cell Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Biotechnology Drug & Engineering Technology Research Center; National Engineering Research Center of Genetic Medicine, Ji'nan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Xue Chen
- Institute of Biomedicine & Department of Cell Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Biotechnology Drug & Engineering Technology Research Center; National Engineering Research Center of Genetic Medicine, Ji'nan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Minghua Lei
- Institute of Biomedicine & Department of Cell Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Biotechnology Drug & Engineering Technology Research Center; National Engineering Research Center of Genetic Medicine, Ji'nan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Rongzhan Liu
- Institute of Biomedicine & Department of Cell Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Biotechnology Drug & Engineering Technology Research Center; National Engineering Research Center of Genetic Medicine, Ji'nan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Weicai Li
- Institute of Biomedicine & Department of Cell Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Biotechnology Drug & Engineering Technology Research Center; National Engineering Research Center of Genetic Medicine, Ji'nan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Dianlong Kang
- Institute of Biomedicine & Department of Cell Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Biotechnology Drug & Engineering Technology Research Center; National Engineering Research Center of Genetic Medicine, Ji'nan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Xiaojia Chen
- Institute of Biomedicine & Department of Cell Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Biotechnology Drug & Engineering Technology Research Center; National Engineering Research Center of Genetic Medicine, Ji'nan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Ji'nan University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - An Hong
- Institute of Biomedicine & Department of Cell Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Biotechnology Drug & Engineering Technology Research Center; National Engineering Research Center of Genetic Medicine, Ji'nan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Ji'nan University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Huang LH, Rau CS, Liu YW, Wu CJ, Chien PC, Lin HP, Wu YC, Huang CY, Hsieh TM, Hsieh CH. Exploring the Regulatory Role of XIST-microRNAs/mRNA Network in Circulating CD4 + T Cells of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Patients. Biomedicines 2023; 11:1848. [PMID: 37509488 PMCID: PMC10376435 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11071848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common cancers and the main cause of cancer-related death globally. Immune dysregulation of CD4+ T cells has been identified to play a role in the development of HCC. Nevertheless, the underlying molecular pathways of CD4+ T cells in HCC are not completely known. Thus, a better understanding of the dysregulation of the lncRNA-miRNA/mRNA network may yield novel insights into the etiology or progression of HCC. In this study, circulating CD4+ T cells were isolated from the whole blood of 10 healthy controls and 10 HCC patients for the next-generation sequencing of the expression of lncRNAs, miRNAs, and mRNAs. Our data showed that there were different expressions of 34 transcripts (2 lncRNAs, XISTs, and MIR222HGs; 29 mRNAs; and 3 other types of RNA) and 13 miRNAs in the circulating CD4+ T cells of HCC patients. The expression of lncRNA-XIST-related miRNAs and their target mRNAs was confirmed using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) on samples from 100 healthy controls and 60 HCC patients. The lncRNA-miRNA/mRNA regulation network was created using interaction data generated from ENCORI and revealed there are positive correlations in the infiltration of total CD4+ T cells, particularly resting memory CD4+ T cells, and negative correlations in the infiltration of Th1 CD4+ T cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lien-Hung Huang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Shyuan Rau
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
| | - Yueh-Wei Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Jung Wu
- Department of Trauma Surgery, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
| | - Peng-Chen Chien
- Department of Trauma Surgery, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Ping Lin
- Department of Trauma Surgery, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Chan Wu
- Department of Trauma Surgery, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Ying Huang
- Department of Trauma Surgery, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
| | - Ting-Min Hsieh
- Department of Trauma Surgery, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Hua Hsieh
- Department of Trauma Surgery, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung 833, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Li F, Lei M, Xie J, Guo S, Li W, Ren X, Wang T, Lin S, Xie Q, Chen X. Discovery and Characteristics of a Novel Antitumor Cyclopeptide Derived from Shark. Bioengineering (Basel) 2023; 10:674. [PMID: 37370606 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering10060674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 05/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Peptides pose a challenge in drug development due to their short half-lives in vivo. In this study, we conducted in vitro degradation experiments on SAIF, which is a shark-derived peptide that we previously studied. The degradation fragments were sequenced and a truncated peptide sequence was identified. The truncated peptide was then cloned and expressed via the E. coli system with traceless cloning to form a novel cyclic peptide in vitro oxidation condition via the formation of a disulfide bond between the N- and C-termini, which was named ctSAIF. ctSAIF exhibited high anti-HCC activity and enhanced enzymatic stability in vitro, and retained antitumor activity and good biocompatibility in systemic circulation in a HCC xenograft model. Our study discovered and characterized a novel shark-derived cyclic peptide with antitumor activity, laying a foundation for its further development as an antitumor drug candidate. The study also provided a new solution for peptide drug development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fu Li
- Department of Cell Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
- National Engineering Research Center of Genetic Medicine, Guangzhou 510632, China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Guangzhou 510632, China
- Guangdong Provincial Biotechnology Drug & Engineering Technology Research Center, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Minghua Lei
- Department of Cell Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
- National Engineering Research Center of Genetic Medicine, Guangzhou 510632, China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Guangzhou 510632, China
- Guangdong Provincial Biotechnology Drug & Engineering Technology Research Center, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Junye Xie
- Department of Cell Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
- National Engineering Research Center of Genetic Medicine, Guangzhou 510632, China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Guangzhou 510632, China
- Guangdong Provincial Biotechnology Drug & Engineering Technology Research Center, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Shujun Guo
- Department of Cell Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
- National Engineering Research Center of Genetic Medicine, Guangzhou 510632, China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Guangzhou 510632, China
- Guangdong Provincial Biotechnology Drug & Engineering Technology Research Center, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Weicai Li
- Department of Cell Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
- National Engineering Research Center of Genetic Medicine, Guangzhou 510632, China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Guangzhou 510632, China
- Guangdong Provincial Biotechnology Drug & Engineering Technology Research Center, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Xiujuan Ren
- Department of Cell Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
- National Engineering Research Center of Genetic Medicine, Guangzhou 510632, China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Guangzhou 510632, China
- Guangdong Provincial Biotechnology Drug & Engineering Technology Research Center, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Teng Wang
- Department of Cell Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
- National Engineering Research Center of Genetic Medicine, Guangzhou 510632, China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Guangzhou 510632, China
- Guangdong Provincial Biotechnology Drug & Engineering Technology Research Center, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Songxiong Lin
- Guangzhou Ocean Land Testing Technology Co., Ltd., Guangzhou 511400, China
| | - Qiuling Xie
- Department of Cell Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
- National Engineering Research Center of Genetic Medicine, Guangzhou 510632, China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Guangzhou 510632, China
- Guangdong Provincial Biotechnology Drug & Engineering Technology Research Center, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Xiaojia Chen
- Department of Cell Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
- National Engineering Research Center of Genetic Medicine, Guangzhou 510632, China
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Guangzhou 510632, China
- Guangdong Provincial Biotechnology Drug & Engineering Technology Research Center, Guangzhou 510632, China
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Sha Y, Pan M, Chen Y, Qiao L, Zhou H, Liu D, Zhang W, Wang K, Huang L, Tang N, Qiu J, Huang A, Xia J. PLEKHG5 is stabilized by HDAC2-related deacetylation and confers sorafenib resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma. Cell Death Discov 2023; 9:176. [PMID: 37248230 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-023-01469-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Sorafenib is the first FDA-approved first-line targeted drug for advanced HCC. However, resistance to sorafenib is frequently observed in clinical practice, and the molecular mechanism remains largely unknown. Here, we found that PLEKHG5 (pleckstrin homology and RhoGEF domain containing G5), a RhoGEF, was highly upregulated in sorafenib-resistant cells. PLEKHG5 overexpression activated Rac1/AKT/NF-κB signaling and reduced sensitivity to sorafenib in HCC cells, while knockdown of PLEKHG5 increased sorafenib sensitivity. The increased PLEKHG5 was related to its acetylation level and protein stability. Histone deacetylase 2 (HDAC2) was found to directly interact with PLEKHG5 to deacetylate its lysine sites within the PH domain and consequently maintain its stability. Moreover, knockout of HDAC2 (HDAC2 KO) or selective HDAC2 inhibition reduced PLEKHG5 protein levels and thereby enhanced the sensitivity of HCC to sorafenib in vitro and in vivo, while overexpression of PLEKHG5 in HDAC2 KO cells reduced the sensitivity to sorafenib. Our work showed a novel mechanism: HDAC2-mediated PLEKHG5 posttranslational modification maintains sorafenib resistance. This is a proof-of-concept study on targeting HDAC2 and PLEKHG5 in sorafenib-treated HCC patients as a new pharmaceutical intervention for advanced HCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Sha
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology on Infectious Diseases, Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
- Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450000, China
| | - Mingang Pan
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology on Infectious Diseases, Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Yunmeng Chen
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology on Infectious Diseases, Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Liangjun Qiao
- College of Basic Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Hengyu Zhou
- College of Nursing, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Dina Liu
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology on Infectious Diseases, Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Wenlu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology on Infectious Diseases, Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Kai Wang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology on Infectious Diseases, Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Luyi Huang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology on Infectious Diseases, Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Ni Tang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology on Infectious Diseases, Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China
| | - Jianguo Qiu
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China.
| | - Ailong Huang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology on Infectious Diseases, Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China.
| | - Jie Xia
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology on Infectious Diseases, Ministry of Education, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China.
| |
Collapse
|