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Li C, Wirth U, Schardey J, Ehrlich-Treuenstätt VV, Bazhin AV, Werner J, Kühn F. An immune-related gene prognostic index for predicting prognosis in patients with colorectal cancer. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1156488. [PMID: 37483596 PMCID: PMC10358773 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1156488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common solid malignant burdens worldwide. Cancer immunology and immunotherapy have become fundamental areas in CRC research and treatment. Currently, the method of generating Immune-Related Gene Prognostic Indices (IRGPIs) has been found to predict patient prognosis as an immune-related prognostic biomarker in a variety of tumors. However, their role in patients with CRC remains mostly unknown. Therefore, we aimed to establish an IRGPI for prognosis evaluation in CRC. Methods RNA-sequencing data and clinical information of CRC patients were retrieved from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and The Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases as training and validation sets, respectively. Immune-related gene data was obtained from the ImmPort and InnateDB databases. The weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was used to identify hub immune-related genes. An IRGPI was then constructed using Cox regression methods. Based on the median risk score of IRGPI, patients could be divided into high-risk and low-risk groups. To further investigate the immunologic differences, Gene set variation analysis (GSVA) studies were conducted. In addition, immune cell infiltration and related functional analysis were used to identify the differential immune cell subsets and related functional pathways. Results We identified 49 immune-related genes associated with the prognosis of CRC, 17 of which were selected for an IRGPI. The IRGPI model significantly differentiates the survival rates of CRC patients in the different groups. The IRGPI as an independent prognostic factor significantly correlates with clinico-pathological factors such as age and tumor stage. Furthermore, we developed a nomogram to improve the clinical utility of the IRGPI score. Immuno-correlation analysis in different IRGPI groups revealed distinct immune cell infiltration (CD4+ T cells resting memory) and associated pathways (macrophages, Type I IFNs responses, iDCs.), providing new insights into the tumor microenvironment. At last, drug sensitivity analysis revealed that the high-risk IRGPI group was sensitive to 11 and resistant to 15 drugs. Conclusion Our study established a promising immune-related risk model for predicting survival in CRC patients. This could help to better understand the correlation between immunity and the prognosis of CRC providing a new perspective for personalized treatment of CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Li
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Ulrich Wirth
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Josefine Schardey
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Alexandr V. Bazhin
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Munich, Germany
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), Munich, Germany
| | - Jens Werner
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Munich, Germany
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), Munich, Germany
| | - Florian Kühn
- Department of General, Visceral, and Transplant Surgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Munich, Germany
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), Munich, Germany
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2
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Pereira I, Monteiro C, Pereira-Silva M, Peixoto D, Nunes C, Reis S, Veiga F, Hamblin MR, Paiva-Santos AC. Nanodelivery systems for cutaneous melanoma treatment. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2023; 184:214-247. [PMID: 36773725 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2023.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
Cutaneous melanoma (CM) is a multifactorial disease whose treatment still presents challenges: the rapid progression to advanced CM, which leads to frequent recurrences even after surgical excision and, notably, the low response rates and resistance to the available therapies, particularly in the case of unresectable metastatic CM. Thereby, alternative innovative therapeutic approaches for CM continue to be searched. In this review we discuss relevant preclinical research studies, and provide a broad-brush analysis of patents and clinical trials which involve the application of nanotechnology-based delivery systems in CM therapy. Nanodelivery systems have been developed for the delivery of anticancer biomolecules to CM, which can be administered by different routes. Overall, nanosystems could promote technological advances in several therapeutic modalities and can be used in combinatorial therapies. Nevertheless, the results of these preclinical studies have not been translated to clinical applications. Thus, concerted and collaborative research studies involving basic, applied, translational, and clinical scientists need to be performed to allow the development of effective and safe nanomedicines to treat CM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irina Pereira
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy of the University of Coimbra, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga Sta. Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; LAQV, REQUIMTE, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy of the University of Coimbra, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga Sta. Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; LAQV, REQUIMTE, Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Carina Monteiro
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy of the University of Coimbra, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga Sta. Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Miguel Pereira-Silva
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy of the University of Coimbra, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga Sta. Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; LAQV, REQUIMTE, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy of the University of Coimbra, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga Sta. Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Diana Peixoto
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy of the University of Coimbra, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga Sta. Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Cláudia Nunes
- LAQV, REQUIMTE, Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Salette Reis
- LAQV, REQUIMTE, Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Francisco Veiga
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy of the University of Coimbra, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga Sta. Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; LAQV, REQUIMTE, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy of the University of Coimbra, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga Sta. Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Michael R Hamblin
- Laser Research Centre, Faculty of Health Science, University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein 2028, South Africa.
| | - Ana Cláudia Paiva-Santos
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy of the University of Coimbra, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga Sta. Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; LAQV, REQUIMTE, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy of the University of Coimbra, University of Coimbra, Azinhaga Sta. Comba, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal.
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3
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Diana A, Setzu MD, Kokaia Z, Nat R, Maxia C, Murtas D. SmartFlare TM is a reliable method for assessing mRNA expression in single neural stem cells. World J Stem Cells 2021; 13:1918-1927. [PMID: 35069990 PMCID: PMC8727230 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v13.i12.1918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND One of the most challenging tasks of modern biology concerns the real-time tracking and quantification of mRNA expression in living cells. On this matter, a novel platform called SmartFlareTM has taken advantage of fluorophore-linked nanoconstructs for targeting RNA transcripts. Although fluorescence emission does not account for the spatial mRNA distribution, NanoFlare technology has grown a range of theranostic applications starting from detecting biomarkers related to diseases, such as cancer, neurodegenerative pathologies or embryonic developmental disorders.
AIM To investigate the potential of SmartFlareTM in determining time-dependent mRNA expression of prominin 1 (CD133) and octamer-binding transcription factor 4 (OCT4) in single living cells through differentiation.
METHODS Brain fragments from the striatum of aborted human fetuses aged 8 wk postconception were processed to obtain neurospheres. For the in vitro differentiation, neurospheres were gently dissociated with Accutase solution. Single cells were resuspended in a basic medium enriched with fetal bovine serum, plated on poly-L-lysine-coated glass coverslips, and grown in a lapse of time from 1 to 4 wk. Live cell mRNA detection was performed using SmartFlareTM probes (CD133, Oct4, Actin, and Scramble). All the samples were incubated at 37 °C for 24 h. For nuclear staining, Hoechst 33342 was added. SmartFlareTM CD133- and OCT4-specific fluorescence signal was assessed using a semiquantitative visual approach, taking into account the fluorescence intensity and the number of labeled cells.
RESULTS In agreement with previous PCR experiments, a unique expression trend was observed for CD133 and OCT4 genes until 7 d in vitro (DIV). Fluorescence resulted in a mixture of diffuse cytoplasmic and spotted-like pattern, also detectable in the contacting neural branches. From 15 to 30 DIV, only few cells showed a scattered fluorescent pattern, in line with the differentiation progression and coherent with mRNA downregulation of these stemness-related genes.
CONCLUSION SmartFlareTM appears to be a reliable, easy-to-handle tool for investigating CD133 and OCT4 expression in a neural stem cell model, preserving cell biological properties in anticipation of downstream experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Diana
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Monserrato 09042, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Maria Dolores Setzu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Monserrato 09042, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Zaal Kokaia
- Laboratory of Stem Cells & Restorative Neurology, Lund Stem Cell Center, Lund University, Lund SE-221 84, Lund, Sweden
| | - Roxana Nat
- Institute of Neuroscience, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck 6020, Austria
| | - Cristina Maxia
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Monserrato 09042, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Daniela Murtas
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Monserrato 09042, Cagliari, Italy
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Motwani J, Eccles MR. Genetic and Genomic Pathways of Melanoma Development, Invasion and Metastasis. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:1543. [PMID: 34680938 PMCID: PMC8535311 DOI: 10.3390/genes12101543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is a serious form of skin cancer that accounts for 80% of skin cancer deaths. Recent studies have suggested that melanoma invasiveness is attributed to phenotype switching, which is a reversible type of cell behaviour with similarities to epithelial to mesenchymal transition. Phenotype switching in melanoma is reported to be independent of genetic alterations, whereas changes in gene transcription, and epigenetic alterations have been associated with invasiveness in melanoma cell lines. Here, we review mutational, transcriptional, and epigenomic alterations that contribute to tumour heterogeneity in melanoma, and their potential to drive melanoma invasion and metastasis. We also discuss three models that are hypothesized to contribute towards aspects of tumour heterogeneity and tumour progression in melanoma, namely the clonal evolution model, the cancer stem cell model, and the phenotype switching model. We discuss the merits and disadvantages of each model in explaining tumour heterogeneity in melanoma, as a precursor to invasion and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyoti Motwani
- Department of Pathology, Dunedin School of Medicine, University of Otago, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand;
| | - Michael R. Eccles
- Department of Pathology, Dunedin School of Medicine, University of Otago, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand;
- Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
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5
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Rossi A, Pacella I, Piconese S. RNA Flow Cytometry for the Study of T Cell Metabolism. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22083906. [PMID: 33918901 PMCID: PMC8069477 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22083906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
T cells undergo activation and differentiation programs along a continuum of states that can be tracked through flow cytometry using a combination of surface and intracellular markers. Such dynamic behavior is the result of transcriptional and post-transcriptional events, initiated and sustained by the activation of specific transcription factors and by epigenetic remodeling. These signaling pathways are tightly integrated with metabolic routes in a bidirectional manner: on the one hand, T cell receptors and costimulatory molecules activate metabolic reprogramming; on the other hand, metabolites modify T cell transcriptional programs and functions. Flow cytometry represents an invaluable tool to analyze the integration of phenotypical, functional, metabolic and transcriptional features, at the single cell level in heterogeneous T cell populations, and from complex microenvironments, with potential clinical application in monitoring the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy. Here, we review the most recent advances in flow cytometry-based analysis of gene expression, in combination with indicators of mitochondrial activity, with the aim of revealing and characterizing major metabolic pathways in T cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Rossi
- Department of Internal Clinical Sciences, Anaesthesiology and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Roma, Italy; (A.R.); (I.P.)
| | - Ilenia Pacella
- Department of Internal Clinical Sciences, Anaesthesiology and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Roma, Italy; (A.R.); (I.P.)
| | - Silvia Piconese
- Department of Internal Clinical Sciences, Anaesthesiology and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Roma, Italy; (A.R.); (I.P.)
- Istituto Pasteur Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, 00161 Roma, Italy
- Correspondence:
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6
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Golab K, Krzystyniak A, Langa P, Pikuła M, Kunovac S, Borek P, Trzonkowski P, Millis JM, Fung J, Witkowski P. Effect of serum on SmartFlare™ RNA Probes uptake and detection in cultured human cells. BIOMEDICAL JOURNAL OF SCIENTIFIC & TECHNICAL RESEARCH 2020; 28:21788-21793. [PMID: 32851205 PMCID: PMC7447198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
SmartFlare™ RNA Detection Probes from Millipore is a novel technology to detect RNA in live cells based on the use of 12 nm gold nanoparticles coated with nucleotides. We proved that SmartFlares™ are internalized by human primary lymphocytes. However, fluorescence signals from target RNA detection can only be observed in the presence of Fetal Bovine Serum (FBS) in the medium, whereas it is not detectable without FBS or when medium is supplemented with human albumin. Image analysis of fluorescence generated from SmartFlare™ Uptake Control (gives constant signal regardless of contact with RNA) and RNA Specific Probes revealed further differences. In the presence of FBS, the fluorescence signal for both reagents was diffused within the cells, whereas in the absence of FBS, it was detected as single spots within the cells only when the Uptake Control was used. It is possible that FBS components are necessary for SmartFlare™ Probes to be released from cellular compartments into the cytoplasm where they can get into contact with target RNA. The exact mechanism of this phenomena should be further determined. However, for the first time, we present here that FBS in the cell culture medium is essential for RNA detection by SmartFlare™ technology in human lymphocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Golab
- Department of Surgery, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Adam Krzystyniak
- Department of Surgery, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Transplantology, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
- Laboratory of Cell Biophysics, Department of Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Paulina Langa
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Transplantology, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
- Microsurgery Research, Department of Orthopaedics, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Michał Pikuła
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Transplantology, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
- Laboratory of Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Embryology, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Stefan Kunovac
- Department of Surgery, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Peter Borek
- Department of Surgery, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Piotr Trzonkowski
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Transplantology, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
| | | | - John Fung
- Department of Surgery, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Piotr Witkowski
- Department of Surgery, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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7
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Zhang Y, Li M, Gao X, Chen Y, Liu T. Nanotechnology in cancer diagnosis: progress, challenges and opportunities. J Hematol Oncol 2019; 12:137. [PMID: 31847897 PMCID: PMC6918551 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-019-0833-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 200] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
In the fight against cancer, early detection is a key factor for successful treatment. However, the detection of cancer in the early stage has been hindered by the intrinsic limits of conventional cancer diagnostic methods. Nanotechnology provides high sensitivity, specificity, and multiplexed measurement capacity and has therefore been investigated for the detection of extracellular cancer biomarkers and cancer cells, as well as for in vivo imaging. This review summarizes the latest developments in nanotechnology applications for cancer diagnosis. In addition, the challenges in the translation of nanotechnology-based diagnostic methods into clinical applications are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Zhang
- Department of Oncology, NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, XiangYa Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Maoyu Li
- Department of Oncology, NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, XiangYa Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, XiangYa Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Xiaomei Gao
- Department of Pathology, XiangYa Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Yongheng Chen
- Department of Oncology, NHC Key Laboratory of Cancer Proteomics, XiangYa Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China.
| | - Ting Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, XiangYa Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, China.
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8
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Toptygina AP, Zakirov RS, Kapitanova KS, Semikina EL. Detection of Small Subsets of CD4 + Lymphocytes with SmartFlare Nanoprobes. Bull Exp Biol Med 2019; 168:270-274. [PMID: 31784846 DOI: 10.1007/s10517-019-04689-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
SmartFlare technology allows detection of mRNA in single living cells. We studied the possibility of using SmartFlare nanoprobes for detection of small subsets of CD4+ lymphocytes. It was found that SmartFlare allows detection of transcriptional master regulators of major CD4+T helper subsets in living human lymphocytes. Nanoprobes labeled with Cy5 fluorophore were better detected by flow cytometry than nanoprobes labeled with Cy3. Appropriate time of lymphocyte incubation with SmartFlare probes was 24 h.
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Affiliation(s)
- A P Toptygina
- G. N. Gabrichevsky Moscow Research Institute for Epidemiology and Microbiology, Federal Service on Surveillance for Consumer Rights Protection and Human Well-Being, Moscow, Russia.
| | - R Sh Zakirov
- National Medical Research Center for Children's Health, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
| | - K S Kapitanova
- G. N. Gabrichevsky Moscow Research Institute for Epidemiology and Microbiology, Federal Service on Surveillance for Consumer Rights Protection and Human Well-Being, Moscow, Russia
| | - E L Semikina
- National Medical Research Center for Children's Health, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
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9
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Voskamp C, van de Peppel J, Gasparini S, Giannoni P, van Leeuwen JPTM, van Osch GJVM, Narcisi R. Sorting living mesenchymal stem cells using a TWIST1 RNA-based probe depends on incubation time and uptake capacity. Cytotechnology 2019; 72:37-45. [PMID: 31728801 PMCID: PMC7002702 DOI: 10.1007/s10616-019-00355-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Bone marrow derived mesenchymal stromal cells (BMSCs) are multipotent progenitors of particular interest for cell-based tissue engineering therapies. However, one disadvantage that limit their clinical use is their heterogeneity. In the last decades a great effort was made to select BMSC subpopulations based on cell surface markers, however there is still no general consensus on which markers to use to obtain the best BMSCs for tissue regeneration. Looking for alternatives we decided to focus on a probe-based method to detect intracellular mRNA in living cells, the SmartFlare technology. This technology does not require fixation of the cells and allows us to sort living cells based on gene expression into functionally different populations. However, since the technology is available it is debated whether the probes specifically recognize their target mRNAs. We validated the TWIST1 probe and demonstrated that it specifically recognizes TWIST1 in BMSCs. However, differences in probe concentration, incubation time and cellular uptake can strongly influence signal specificity. In addition we found that TWIST1high expressing cells have an increased expansion rate compared to TWIST1low expressing cells derived
from the same initial population of BMSCs. The SmartFlare probes recognize their target gene, however for each probe and cell type validation of the protocol is necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chantal Voskamp
- Department of Orthopaedics, Erasmus MC, 3015 CN, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Simona Gasparini
- Department of Orthopaedics, Erasmus MC, 3015 CN, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genova, Genoa, Italy
| | - Paolo Giannoni
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Genova, Genoa, Italy
| | | | - Gerjo J V M van Osch
- Department of Orthopaedics, Erasmus MC, 3015 CN, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Erasmus MC, 3015 CN, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Roberto Narcisi
- Department of Orthopaedics, Erasmus MC, 3015 CN, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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10
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Villani V, Thornton ME, Zook HN, Crook CJ, Grubbs BH, Orlando G, De Filippo R, Ku HT, Perin L. SOX9+/PTF1A+ Cells Define the Tip Progenitor Cells of the Human Fetal Pancreas of the Second Trimester. Stem Cells Transl Med 2019; 8:1249-1264. [PMID: 31631582 PMCID: PMC6877773 DOI: 10.1002/sctm.19-0231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2019] [Accepted: 09/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Significant progress has been made in recent years in characterizing human multipotent progenitor cells (hMPCs) of the early pancreas; however, the identity and persistence of these cells during the second trimester, after the initiation of branching morphogenesis, remain elusive. Additionally, studies on hMPCs have been hindered by few isolation methods that allow for the recovery of live cells. Here, we investigated the tip progenitor domain in the branched epithelium of human fetal pancreas between 13.5 and 17.5 gestational weeks by immunohistological staining. We also used a novel RNA-based technology to isolate live cells followed by gene expression analyses. We identified cells co-expressing SOX9 and PTF1A, two transcription factors known to be important for pancreatic MPCs, within the tips of the epithelium and observed a decrease in their proportions over time. Pancreatic SOX9+/PTF1A+ cells were enriched for MPC markers, including MYC and GATA6. These cells were proliferative and appeared active in branching morphogenesis and matrix remodeling, as evidenced by gene set enrichment analysis. We identified a hub of genes pertaining to the expanding tip progenitor niche, such as FOXF1, GLI3, TBX3, FGFR1, TGFBR2, ITGAV, ITGA2, and ITGB3. YAP1 of the Hippo pathway emerged as a highly enriched component within the SOX9+/PTF1A+ cells. Single-cell RNA-sequencing further corroborated the findings by identifying a cluster of SOX9+/PTF1A+ cells with multipotent characteristics. Based on these results, we propose that the SOX9+/PTF1A+ cells in the human pancreas are uncommitted MPC-like cells that reside at the tips of the expanding pancreatic epithelium, directing self-renewal and inducing pancreatic organogenesis. Stem Cells Translational Medicine 2019;8:1249&1264.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Villani
- GOFARR Laboratory for Organ Regenerative Research and Cell Therapeutics, Division of Urology, Saban Research Institute, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Matthew E Thornton
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine Division, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Heather N Zook
- Department of Translational Research and Cellular Therapeutics, Diabetes and Metabolism Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA.,Irell & Manella Graduate School of Biological Sciences, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Christiana J Crook
- Department of Translational Research and Cellular Therapeutics, Diabetes and Metabolism Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA.,Irell & Manella Graduate School of Biological Sciences, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Brendan H Grubbs
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine Division, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Giuseppe Orlando
- Department of Surgery, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Roger De Filippo
- GOFARR Laboratory for Organ Regenerative Research and Cell Therapeutics, Division of Urology, Saban Research Institute, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA.,Department of Urology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Hsun Teresa Ku
- Department of Translational Research and Cellular Therapeutics, Diabetes and Metabolism Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA.,Irell & Manella Graduate School of Biological Sciences, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Laura Perin
- GOFARR Laboratory for Organ Regenerative Research and Cell Therapeutics, Division of Urology, Saban Research Institute, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA.,Department of Urology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
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11
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Sandomenico A, Ruvo M. Targeting Nodal and Cripto-1: Perspectives Inside Dual Potential Theranostic Cancer Biomarkers. Curr Med Chem 2019; 26:1994-2050. [PMID: 30207211 DOI: 10.2174/0929867325666180912104707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2018] [Revised: 07/13/2018] [Accepted: 07/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Elucidating the mechanisms of recurrence of embryonic signaling pathways in tumorigenesis has led to the discovery of onco-fetal players which have physiological roles during normal development but result aberrantly re-activated in tumors. In this context, Nodal and Cripto-1 are recognized as onco-developmental factors, which are absent in normal tissues but are overexpressed in several solid tumors where they can serve as theranostic agents. OBJECTIVE To collect, review and discuss the most relevant papers related to the involvement of Nodal and Cripto-1 in the development, progression, recurrence and metastasis of several tumors where they are over-expressed, with a particular attention to their occurrence on the surface of the corresponding sub-populations of cancer stem cells (CSC). RESULTS We have gathered, rationalized and discussed the most interesting findings extracted from some 370 papers related to the involvement of Cripto-1 and Nodal in all tumor types where they have been detected. Data demonstrate the clear connection between Nodal and Cripto-1 presence and their multiple oncogenic activities across different tumors. We have also reviewed and highlighted the potential of targeting Nodal, Cripto-1 and the complexes that they form on the surface of tumor cells, especially of CSC, as an innovative approach to detect and suppress tumors with molecules that block one or more mechanisms that they regulate. CONCLUSION Overall, Nodal and Cripto-1 represent two innovative and effective biomarkers for developing potential theranostic anti-tumor agents that target normal as well as CSC subpopulations and overcome both pharmacological resistance and tumor relapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annamaria Sandomenico
- Istituto di Biostrutture e Bioimmagini, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (IBB-CNR), via Mezzocannone, 16, 80134, Napoli, Italy
| | - Menotti Ruvo
- Istituto di Biostrutture e Bioimmagini, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (IBB-CNR), via Mezzocannone, 16, 80134, Napoli, Italy
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12
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Sun H, Yao N, Cheng S, Li L, Liu S, Yang Z, Shang G, Zhang D, Yao Z. Cancer stem-like cells directly participate in vasculogenic mimicry channels in triple-negative breast cancer. Cancer Biol Med 2019; 16:299-311. [PMID: 31516750 PMCID: PMC6713644 DOI: 10.20892/j.issn.2095-3941.2018.0209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Vasculogenic mimicry (VM) channels that are lined by tumor cells are a functional blood supply in malignant tumors. However, the role of VM-initiating cells remains poorly understood. Cancer stem-like cells (CSCs) are positively correlated with VM. In this study, triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) enriched with CSCs was used to investigate the relationship between VM and CSCs. Methods The expression of several CSC markers was detected by immunohistochemistry in 100 human breast cancer samples. The clinical significance of CSC markers and the relationship between VM, CSCs, breast cancer subtypes, and VM-associated proteins were analyzed. CD133+ and ALDH+ human and mouse TNBC cells were isolated by FACS to examine the ability of VM formation and the spatial relationship between VM and CSCs. Results CSCs were associated with TNBC subtype and VM in human invasive breast cancer. CSCs in TNBC MDA-MB-231 cells formed more VM channels and expressed more molecules promoting VM than the non-TNBC MCF-7 cells in vitro. MDA-MB-231 cells that encircled VM channels on Matrigel expressed CD133. Moreover, CSCs were located near VM channels in the 3D reconstructed blood supply system in human TNBC grafts. The CD133+ and ALDH+ cells isolated from TA2 mouse breast cancer formed more VM channels in vivo.
Conclusions CSCs line VM channels directly. Additionally, CSCs provide more VM-related molecules to synergize VM formation. The signaling pathways that control CSC differentiation may also be potential treatment targets for TNBC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huizhi Sun
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Nan Yao
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Siqi Cheng
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Linqi Li
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Shiqi Liu
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Zhao Yang
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Guanjie Shang
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Danfang Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China.,Department of Pathology, General Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China
| | - Zhi Yao
- Department of Pathology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China.,Department of Immunology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin 300070, China
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13
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Seftor EA, Margaryan NV, Seftor REB, Hendrix MJC. Heterogeneity of Melanoma with Stem Cell Properties. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1139:105-114. [PMID: 31134497 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-14366-4_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Metastatic melanoma continues to present a significant challenge-with a cure rate of less than 10% and a median survival of 6-9 months. Despite noteworthy advances in the field, the heterogeneity of melanoma tumors, comprised of cell subpopulations expressing a cancer stem cell (CSC) phenotype concomitant with drug resistance markers presents a formidable challenge in the design of current therapies. Particularly vexing is the ability of distinct subpopulations of melanoma cells to resist standard-of-care treatments, resulting in relapse and progression to metastasis. Recent studies have provided new information and insights into the expression and function of CSC markers associated with the aggressive melanoma phenotype, such as the embryonic morphogen Nodal and CD133, together with a drug resistance marker ABCA1. This chapter highlights major findings that demonstrate the promise of targeting Nodal as a viable option to pursue in combination with standard-of-care therapy. In recognizing that aggressive melanoma tumors utilize multiple mechanisms to survive, we must consider a more strategic approach to effectively target heterogeneity, tumor cell plasticity, and functional adaptation and resistance to current therapies-to eliminate relapse, disease progression, and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth A Seftor
- Department of Biochemistry and Cancer Institute, West Virginia University Health Sciences Center, One Medical Center Drive, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Naira V Margaryan
- Department of Biochemistry and Cancer Institute, West Virginia University Health Sciences Center, One Medical Center Drive, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Richard E B Seftor
- Department of Biochemistry and Cancer Institute, West Virginia University Health Sciences Center, One Medical Center Drive, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Mary J C Hendrix
- Department of Biology, Shepherd University, Shepherdstown, WV, USA.
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14
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Lio DCS, Liu C, Wiraja C, Qiu B, Fhu CW, Wang X, Xu C. Molecular Beacon Gold Nanosensors for Leucine-Rich Alpha-2-Glycoprotein-1 Detection in Pathological Angiogenesis. ACS Sens 2018; 3:1647-1655. [PMID: 30095245 DOI: 10.1021/acssensors.8b00321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Leucine-rich alpha-2-glycoprotein-1 (Lrg1) is an emerging biomarker for angiogenesis. Its expression in ocular tissues is up-regulated in both human patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy and rodent models of pathological angiogenesis. However, there is no existing sensor that allows visualization and monitoring of Lrg1 expression noninvasively and in real time. Herein, we report a nucleic acid-gold nanorod-based nanosensor for the noninvasive monitoring of cellular Lrg1 expression in angiogenesis. Specifically, this platform is constructed by covalently conjugating molecular beacons onto gold nanorods, which prequench the fluorophores on the molecular beacons. Upon intracellular entry and endosomal escape, the complexes interact with cellular Lrg1 mRNA through hybridization of the loop area of the molecular beacons. This complexation distances the fluorophores from nanorod and restores the prequenched fluorescence. The reliability of this platform is confirmed by examining the increased Lrg1 expression in migrating keratinocytes and the Lrg1 gene changes in different postnatal stages of mouse retinal vasculature growth in the mouse retina model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Chin Shiuan Lio
- School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 70 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 637457, Singapore
- NTU-Northwestern Institute for Nanomedicine, Interdisciplinary Graduate School, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore 639798, Singapore
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, 59 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 636921, Singapore
| | - Chenghao Liu
- School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 70 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 637457, Singapore
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, 59 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 636921, Singapore
| | - Christian Wiraja
- School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 70 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 637457, Singapore
| | - Beiying Qiu
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Proteos, 61 Biopolis Dr, Singapore 138673, Singapore
| | - Chee Wai Fhu
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, 59 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 636921, Singapore
| | - Xiaomeng Wang
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, 59 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 636921, Singapore
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Proteos, 61 Biopolis Dr, Singapore 138673, Singapore
- Singapore Eye Research Institute, The Academia, 20 College Road, Discovery Tower Level 6, Singapore 169856
- Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, 11-43 Bath Street, London EC1 V 9EL, United Kingdom
| | - Chenjie Xu
- School of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 70 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 637457, Singapore
- NTU-Northwestern Institute for Nanomedicine, Interdisciplinary Graduate School, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore 639798, Singapore
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15
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Kyriazi ME, Giust D, El-Sagheer AH, Lackie PM, Muskens OL, Brown T, Kanaras AG. Multiplexed mRNA Sensing and Combinatorial-Targeted Drug Delivery Using DNA-Gold Nanoparticle Dimers. ACS NANO 2018; 12:3333-3340. [PMID: 29557641 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.7b08620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The design of nanoparticulate systems which can perform multiple synergistic functions in cells with high specificity and selectivity is of great importance in applications. Here we combine recent advances in DNA-gold nanoparticle self-assembly and sensing to develop gold nanoparticle dimers that are able to perform multiplexed synergistic functions within a cellular environment. These dimers can sense two mRNA targets and simultaneously or independently deliver one or two DNA-intercalating anticancer drugs (doxorubicin and mitoxantrone) in live cells. Our study focuses on the design of sophisticated nanoparticle assemblies with multiple and synergistic functions that have the potential to advance sensing and drug delivery in cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Afaf H El-Sagheer
- Department of Chemistry, Chemistry Research Laboratory , University of Oxford , 12 Mansfield Road , Oxford OX1 3TA , United Kingdom
- Chemistry Branch, Department of Science and Mathematics, Faculty of Petroleum and Mining Engineering , Suez University , Suez 43721 , Egypt
| | - Peter M Lackie
- Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine , University of Southampton , Southampton SO16 6YD , United Kingdom
| | | | - Tom Brown
- Department of Chemistry, Chemistry Research Laboratory , University of Oxford , 12 Mansfield Road , Oxford OX1 3TA , United Kingdom
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16
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Mishchenko TA, Mitroshina EV, Shishkina TV, Astrakhanova TA, Prokhorova MV, Vedunova MV. Applicability of Live Cell Imaging of mRNA Expression in Combination with Calcium Imaging for in vitro Studies of Neural Network Activity. BIOCHEMISTRY (MOSCOW), SUPPLEMENT SERIES A: MEMBRANE AND CELL BIOLOGY 2018. [DOI: 10.1134/s1990747818020095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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17
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Kalyan A, Carneiro BA, Chandra S, Kaplan J, Chae YK, Matsangou M, Hendrix MJC, Giles F. Nodal Signaling as a Developmental Therapeutics Target in Oncology. Mol Cancer Ther 2018; 16:787-792. [PMID: 28468864 DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-16-0215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2016] [Revised: 11/22/2016] [Accepted: 12/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment is a vital feature of oncogenesis and tumor progression. There are several parallels between cancer cells and early developmental stem cells, including their plasticity and signaling mechanisms. In early fetal development, Nodal is expressed for endodermal and mesodermal differentiation. This expression has been shown reemerge in the setting of epithelial cancers, such as breast and melanoma. High Nodal expression correlates to an aggressive tumor grade in these malignancies. Nodal signal begins with its interaction with its coreceptor, Cripto-1, leading to activation of Smad2/Smad3 and ultimately downstream transcription and translation. Lefty is the natural inhibitor of Nodal and controls Nodal signaling during fetal development. However, cancer cells lack the presence of Lefty, thus leading to uncontrolled tumor growth. Given this understanding, inhibition of the Nodal pathway offers a new novel therapeutic target in oncology. Mol Cancer Ther; 16(5); 787-92. ©2017 AACR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aparna Kalyan
- Developmental Therapeutics Program, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Olson Pavilion, Chicago, Illinois. .,Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Benedito A Carneiro
- Developmental Therapeutics Program, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Olson Pavilion, Chicago, Illinois.,Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Sunandana Chandra
- Developmental Therapeutics Program, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Olson Pavilion, Chicago, Illinois.,Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Jason Kaplan
- Developmental Therapeutics Program, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Olson Pavilion, Chicago, Illinois.,Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Young Kwang Chae
- Developmental Therapeutics Program, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Olson Pavilion, Chicago, Illinois.,Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Maria Matsangou
- Developmental Therapeutics Program, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Olson Pavilion, Chicago, Illinois.,Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Mary J C Hendrix
- Developmental Therapeutics Program, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Olson Pavilion, Chicago, Illinois.,Cancer Biology and Epigenomics Program, Stanley Manne Children's Research Institute, Anne and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Francis Giles
- Developmental Therapeutics Program, Division of Hematology and Oncology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Olson Pavilion, Chicago, Illinois.,Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
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18
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Grzywa TM, Paskal W, Włodarski PK. Intratumor and Intertumor Heterogeneity in Melanoma. Transl Oncol 2017; 10:956-975. [PMID: 29078205 PMCID: PMC5671412 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2017.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 184] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2017] [Revised: 09/14/2017] [Accepted: 09/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanoma is a cancer that exhibits one of the most aggressive and heterogeneous features. The incidence rate escalates. A high number of clones harboring various mutations contribute to an exceptional level of intratumor heterogeneity of melanoma. It also refers to metastases which may originate from different subclones of primary lesion. Such component of the neoplasm biology is termed intertumor and intratumor heterogeneity. These levels of tumor heterogeneity hinder accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. The increasing number of research on the topic reflects the need for understanding limitation or failure of contemporary therapies. Majority of analyses concentrate on mutations in cancer-related genes. Novel high-throughput techniques reveal even higher degree of variations within a lesion. Consolidation of theories and researches indicates new routes for treatment options such as targets for immunotherapy. The demand for personalized approach in melanoma treatment requires extensive knowledge on intratumor and intertumor heterogeneity on the level of genome, transcriptome/proteome, and epigenome. Thus, achievements in exploration of melanoma variety are described in details. Particularly, the issue of tumor heterogeneity or homogeneity given BRAF mutations is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz M Grzywa
- The Department of Histology and Embryology, Laboratory of Centre for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1b, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Wiktor Paskal
- The Department of Histology and Embryology, Laboratory of Centre for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1b, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Paweł K Włodarski
- The Department of Histology and Embryology, Laboratory of Centre for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1b, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland.
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19
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Czarnek M, Bereta J. SmartFlares fail to reflect their target transcripts levels. Sci Rep 2017; 7:11682. [PMID: 28916792 PMCID: PMC5600982 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-11067-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2017] [Accepted: 08/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
SmartFlare probes have recently emerged as a promising tool for visualisation and quantification of specific RNAs in living cells. They are supposed to overcome the common drawbacks of current methods for RNA analysis: the need of cell fixation or lysis, or the requirements for genetic manipulations. In contrast to the traditional methods, SmartFlare probes are also presumed to provide information on RNA levels in single cells. Disappointingly, the results of our comprehensive study involving probes specific to five different transcripts, HMOX1, IL6, PTGS2, Nrg1, and ERBB4, deny the usefulness of SmartFlare probes for RNA analysis. We report a total lack of correlation between fluorescence intensities of SmartFlare probes and the levels of corresponding RNAs assessed by RT-qPCR. To ensure strong differences in the levels of analysed RNAs, their expression was modified via: (i) HMOX1-knockdown generated by CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing, (ii) hemin-mediated stimulation of HMOX1- and IL1β-mediated stimulation of IL6- and PTGS2 transcription, (iii) lentiviral vector-mediated Nrg1 overexpression. Additionally, ERBB4-specific SmartFlare probe failed to distinguish between ERBB4-expressing and non-expressing cell lines. Finally, we demonstrated that fluorescence intensity of HMOX1-specific SmartFlare probe corresponds to the efficacy of its uptake and/or accumulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Czarnek
- Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University in Kraków, Gronostajowa 7, 30-387, Kraków, Poland
| | - Joanna Bereta
- Faculty of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Biotechnology, Jagiellonian University in Kraków, Gronostajowa 7, 30-387, Kraków, Poland.
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20
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Câmara DAD, Porcacchia AS, Costa AS, Azevedo RA, Kerkis I. Murine melanoma cells incomplete reprogramming using non-viral vector. Cell Prolif 2017; 50. [PMID: 28618452 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.12352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2016] [Accepted: 04/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The reprogramming of cancer cells into induced pluripotent stem cells or less aggressive cancer cells can provide a modern platform to study cancer-related genes and their interactions with cell environment before and after reprogramming. Herein, we aimed to investigate the reprogramming capacity of murine melanoma B16F10 cells. MATERIALS AND METHODS The B16F10 was transfected using non-viral circular DNA plasmid containing the genes Sox-2, Oct4, Nanog, Lin28 and green fluorescent protein (GFP). These cells were characterized by immunofluorescence, analysis RT-PCR and cell cycle. RESULTS Our results demonstrated for the first time that reprogramming of B16F10 may be induced using non-viral minicircle DNA containing the four reprogramming factors Oct4, Sox2, Lin 28, Nanog (OSLN) and the GFP reporter gene. The resulting clones are composed by epithelioid cells. These cells display characteristics of cancer stem cells, thus expressing pluripotent stem cell markers and dividing asymmetrically and symmetrically. Reprogrammed B16F10 cells did not form teratomas; however, they showed the suppression of tumourigenic abilities characterized by a reduced tumour size, when compared with parental B16F10 cell line. In contrast to parental cell line that showed accumulation of the cells in S phase of cell cycle, the cells of reprogrammed clones are accumulated in G1 phase. Long-term cultivation of reprogrammed B16F10 cells induces regression of their reprogramming. CONCLUSIONS Our data imply that in result of reprogramming of B16F10 cells less aggressive Murine Melanoma Reprogrammed Cancer Cells may be obtained. These cells represent an interesting model to study mechanism of cells malignancy as well as provide a novel tool for anti-cancer drugs screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- D A D Câmara
- Laboratory of Genetics, Butantan Institute, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil.,Department of Morphology and Genetics, Universidade Federal de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - A S Porcacchia
- Laboratory of Genetics, Butantan Institute, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - A S Costa
- Laboratory of Genetics, Butantan Institute, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - R A Azevedo
- Departament of Immunology, Laboratory of Tumor Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Science, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - I Kerkis
- Laboratory of Genetics, Butantan Institute, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
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21
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Brinckerhoff CE. Cancer Stem Cells (CSCs) in melanoma: There's smoke, but is there fire? J Cell Physiol 2017; 232:2674-2678. [PMID: 28078710 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.25796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2016] [Accepted: 12/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs), also called Tumor Initiating Cells (TICs), can be defined as cancer cells that are present within solid tumors or hematological cancers, which have characteristics associated with normal stem cells, but which can give rise to all cell types found in a particular cancer sample. CSCs, therefore, are transformed stem cells, which can self-renew, differentiate into diverse progenies, and drive continuous tumor growth (Kreso & Dick, , Cell Stem Cell, 14:275-291; Schatton et al., , Nature, 451:345-349; Villani, Sabbatino, Ferrone, & Ferrone, , Melanoma Management, 2:109-114; Zhou et al., , Drug Discovery, 8:806-823) (Fig. ). [Figure: see text].
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Affiliation(s)
- Constance E Brinckerhoff
- Departments of Medicine and Biochemistry, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Norris Cotton Cancer Center, Lebanon, New Hampshire
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22
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Wolczyk M, Podszywalow-Bartnicka P, Bugajski L, Piwocka K. Stress granules assembly affects detection of mRNA in living cells by the NanoFlares; an important aspect of the technology. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2017; 1861:1024-1035. [PMID: 28196667 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2017.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2016] [Revised: 01/27/2017] [Accepted: 02/08/2017] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
The recently announced new methodologies to detect mRNA molecules in single cells offer opportunities for research, medicine and molecular diagnostics. The NanoFlare RNA Detection Probes are tools for characterizing RNA content (not localization) using fluorescence-based approaches in living cells. Combined with flow cytometry, NanoFlares have expanded the available possibilities of quantitative analysis of mRNA level in a single cell. Herein we present that in some cases, the specific NanoFlare probes (SmartFlares) detect different amounts of mRNA compared to qPCR. Using the previously published model, in which we studied influence of BCR-ABL oncogene on BRCA1 mRNA translation, we found that the NanoFlare-mediated measurement of mRNA was affected by the assembly of stress granules, structures which store mRNA in complexes with RNA binding proteins. With the usage of chemical compounds we confirmed that under conditions supporting assembly of stress granules, the detection of mRNAs by these probes was decreased, whereas disassembly resulted in the increased mRNAs detection. Altogether, we showed that assembly of stress granules could interfere with mRNA accessibility to the NanoFlare RNA Detection Probes, indicating that the SmartFlares could recognize only the translationally active pool of mRNA, contrary to qPCR. This can significantly influence the quality of obtained data and should be taken into consideration while planning the analysis of mRNA markers using NanoFlares.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Wolczyk
- Laboratory of Cytometry, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, 3 Pasteur Street, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland.
| | | | - Lukasz Bugajski
- Laboratory of Cytometry, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, 3 Pasteur Street, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Katarzyna Piwocka
- Laboratory of Cytometry, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, 3 Pasteur Street, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland.
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23
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Bodenstine TM, Chandler GS, Seftor REB, Seftor EA, Hendrix MJC. Plasticity underlies tumor progression: role of Nodal signaling. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2016; 35:21-39. [PMID: 26951550 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-016-9605-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) superfamily member Nodal is an established regulator of early embryonic development, with primary roles in endoderm induction, left-right asymmetry, and primitive streak formation. Nodal signals through TGFβ family receptors at the plasma membrane and induces signaling cascades leading to diverse transcriptional regulation. While conceptually simple, the regulation of Nodal and its molecular effects are profoundly complex and context dependent. Pioneering work by developmental biologists has characterized the signaling pathways, regulatory components, and provided detailed insight into the mechanisms by which Nodal mediates changes at the cellular and organismal levels. Nodal is also an important factor in maintaining pluripotency of embryonic stem cells through regulation of core transcriptional programs. Collectively, this work has led to an appreciation for Nodal as a powerful morphogen capable of orchestrating multiple cellular phenotypes. Although Nodal is not active in most adult tissues, its reexpression and signaling have been linked to multiple types of human cancer, and Nodal has emerged as a driver of tumor growth and cellular plasticity. In vitro and in vivo experimental evidence has demonstrated that inhibition of Nodal signaling reduces cancer cell aggressive characteristics, while clinical data have established associations with Nodal expression and patient outcomes. As a result, there is great interest in the potential targeting of Nodal activity in a therapeutic setting for cancer patients that may provide new avenues for suppressing tumor growth and metastasis. In this review, we evaluate our current understanding of the complexities of Nodal function in cancer and highlight recent experimental evidence that sheds light on the therapeutic potential of its inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas M Bodenstine
- Stanley Manne Children's Research Institute, Cancer Biology and Epigenomics Program, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 225 E. Chicago Avenue, Box 222, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Grace S Chandler
- Stanley Manne Children's Research Institute, Cancer Biology and Epigenomics Program, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 225 E. Chicago Avenue, Box 222, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Richard E B Seftor
- Stanley Manne Children's Research Institute, Cancer Biology and Epigenomics Program, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 225 E. Chicago Avenue, Box 222, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Elisabeth A Seftor
- Stanley Manne Children's Research Institute, Cancer Biology and Epigenomics Program, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 225 E. Chicago Avenue, Box 222, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Mary J C Hendrix
- Stanley Manne Children's Research Institute, Cancer Biology and Epigenomics Program, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 225 E. Chicago Avenue, Box 222, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA.
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Lahm H, Doppler SA, Dreßen M, Adamczyk K, Deutsch MA, Ulrich H, Schiemann M, Lange R, Krane M. Detection of Intracellular Gene Expression in Live Cells of Murine, Human and Porcine Origin Using Fluorescence-labeled Nanoparticles. J Vis Exp 2015. [PMID: 26650934 PMCID: PMC4692708 DOI: 10.3791/53268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The reprogramming of somatic cells to induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS) has successfully been performed in different mammalian species including mouse, rat, human, pig and others. The verification of iPS clones mainly relies on the detection of the endogenous expression of different pluripotency genes. These genes mostly represent transcription factors which are located in the cell nucleus. Traditionally, the proof of their endogenous expression is supplied by immunohistochemical staining after fixation of the cells. This approach requires replicate cultures of each clone at this early stage to preserve validated clones for further experiments. The present protocol describes an approach with gene-specific nanoparticles which allows the evaluation of intracellular gene expression directly in live cells by fluorescence. The nanoparticles consist of a central gold particle coupled to a capture strand carrying a sequence complementary to the target mRNA as well as a quenched reporter strand. These nanoparticles are actively endocytosed and the target mRNA displaces the reporter strand which then start to fluoresce. Therefore, specific target gene expression can be detected directly under the microscope. In addition, the emitted fluorescence allows the identification, isolation and enrichment of cells expressing a specific gene by flow cytometry. This method can be applied directly to live cells in culture without any manipulation of the target cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harald Lahm
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, German Heart Center Munich, Technische Universität München;
| | - Stefanie A Doppler
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, German Heart Center Munich, Technische Universität München
| | - Martina Dreßen
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, German Heart Center Munich, Technische Universität München
| | - Klaudia Adamczyk
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, German Heart Center Munich, Technische Universität München
| | - Marcus-André Deutsch
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, German Heart Center Munich, Technische Universität München
| | - Hanna Ulrich
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Immunology, and Hygiene, Technische Universität München
| | - Matthias Schiemann
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Immunology, and Hygiene, Technische Universität München; Clinical Cooperation Groups: "Antigen-specific Immunotherapy" and "Immune Monitoring", Helmholtz Center Munich (Neuhererg), Technische Universität München
| | - Rüdiger Lange
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, German Heart Center Munich, Technische Universität München; DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research) - Partner site Munich Heart Alliance
| | - Markus Krane
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, German Heart Center Munich, Technische Universität München; DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research) - Partner site Munich Heart Alliance
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25
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Lahm H, Doppler S, Dreßen M, Werner A, Adamczyk K, Schrambke D, Brade T, Laugwitz KL, Deutsch MA, Schiemann M, Lange R, Moretti A, Krane M. Live fluorescent RNA-based detection of pluripotency gene expression in embryonic and induced pluripotent stem cells of different species. Stem Cells 2015; 33:392-402. [PMID: 25335772 DOI: 10.1002/stem.1872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2014] [Revised: 08/27/2014] [Accepted: 09/06/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The generation of induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells has successfully been achieved in many species. However, the identification of truly reprogrammed iPS cells still remains laborious and the detection of pluripotency markers requires fixation of cells in most cases. Here, we report an approach with nanoparticles carrying Cy3-labeled sense oligonucleotide reporter strands coupled to gold-particles. These molecules are directly added to cultured cells without any manipulation and gene expression is evaluated microscopically after overnight incubation. To simultaneously detect gene expression in different species, probe sequences were chosen according to interspecies homology. With a common target-specific probe we could successfully demonstrate expression of the GAPDH house-keeping gene in somatic cells and expression of the pluripotency markers NANOG and GDF3 in embryonic stem cells and iPS cells of murine, human, and porcine origin. The population of target gene positive cells could be purified by fluorescence-activated cell sorting. After lentiviral transduction of murine tail-tip fibroblasts Nanog-specific probes identified truly reprogrammed murine iPS cells in situ during development based on their Cy3-fluorescence. The intensity of Nanog-specific fluorescence correlated positively with an increased capacity of individual clones to differentiate into cells of all three germ layers. Our approach offers a universal tool to detect intracellular gene expression directly in live cells of any desired origin without the need for manipulation, thus allowing conservation of the genetic background of the target cell. Furthermore, it represents an easy, scalable method for efficient screening of pluripotency which is highly desirable during high-throughput cell reprogramming and after genomic editing of pluripotent stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harald Lahm
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Division of Experimental Surgery, German Heart Center Munich, Munich Heart Alliance
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26
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New Anti-Nodal Monoclonal Antibodies Targeting the Nodal Pre-Helix Loop Involved in Cripto-1 Binding. Int J Mol Sci 2015; 16:21342-62. [PMID: 26370966 PMCID: PMC4613256 DOI: 10.3390/ijms160921342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2015] [Revised: 08/21/2015] [Accepted: 08/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Nodal is a potent embryonic morphogen belonging to the TGF-β superfamily. Typically, it also binds to the ALK4/ActRIIB receptor complex in the presence of the co-receptor Cripto-1. Nodal expression is physiologically restricted to embryonic tissues and human embryonic stem cells, is absent in normal cells but re-emerges in several human cancers, including melanoma, breast, and colon cancer. Our aim was to obtain mAbs able to recognize Nodal on a major CBR (Cripto-Binding-Region) site and to block the Cripto-1-mediated signalling. To achieve this, antibodies were raised against hNodal(44-67) and mAbs generated by the hybridoma technology. We have selected one mAb, named 3D1, which strongly associates with full-length rhNodal (KD 1.4 nM) and recognizes the endogenous protein in a panel of human melanoma cell lines by western blot and FACS analyses. 3D1 inhibits the Nodal-Cripto-1 binding and blocks Smad2/3 phosphorylation. Data suggest that inhibition of the Nodal-Cripto-1 axis is a valid therapeutic approach against melanoma and 3D1 is a promising and interesting agent for blocking Nodal-Cripto mediated tumor development. These findings increase the interest for Nodal as both a diagnostic and prognostic marker and as a potential new target for therapeutic intervention.
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27
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Chinen AB, Guan CM, Ferrer JR, Barnaby SN, Merkel TJ, Mirkin CA. Nanoparticle Probes for the Detection of Cancer Biomarkers, Cells, and Tissues by Fluorescence. Chem Rev 2015; 115:10530-74. [PMID: 26313138 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.5b00321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 623] [Impact Index Per Article: 69.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Alyssa B Chinen
- Department of Chemistry, ‡Department of Chemical Engineering, §Department of Interdepartmental Biological Sciences, and ∥International Institute for Nanotechnology, Northwestern University , 2145 Sheridan Road, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
| | - Chenxia M Guan
- Department of Chemistry, ‡Department of Chemical Engineering, §Department of Interdepartmental Biological Sciences, and ∥International Institute for Nanotechnology, Northwestern University , 2145 Sheridan Road, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
| | - Jennifer R Ferrer
- Department of Chemistry, ‡Department of Chemical Engineering, §Department of Interdepartmental Biological Sciences, and ∥International Institute for Nanotechnology, Northwestern University , 2145 Sheridan Road, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
| | - Stacey N Barnaby
- Department of Chemistry, ‡Department of Chemical Engineering, §Department of Interdepartmental Biological Sciences, and ∥International Institute for Nanotechnology, Northwestern University , 2145 Sheridan Road, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
| | - Timothy J Merkel
- Department of Chemistry, ‡Department of Chemical Engineering, §Department of Interdepartmental Biological Sciences, and ∥International Institute for Nanotechnology, Northwestern University , 2145 Sheridan Road, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
| | - Chad A Mirkin
- Department of Chemistry, ‡Department of Chemical Engineering, §Department of Interdepartmental Biological Sciences, and ∥International Institute for Nanotechnology, Northwestern University , 2145 Sheridan Road, Evanston, Illinois 60208, United States
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28
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X-FISH: Analysis of cellular RNA expression patterns using flow cytometry. J Immunol Methods 2015; 423:111-9. [PMID: 25997675 DOI: 10.1016/j.jim.2015.04.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2014] [Revised: 03/14/2015] [Accepted: 04/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) is a powerful technique for the detection of RNA or DNA within cells and tissues, which provides a unique link between molecular and cell biology. This technique is broadly applicable across a range of biological systems. While FISH has been previously adapted to flow-based platforms, their use remains limited because of procedural challenges and costs associated with commercial kits. Herein we present a protocol that modifies existing techniques to sensitively and specifically detect and examine RNA expression patterns in primary cells and cell lines using flow cytometry (expression-FISH; X-FISH). As relevant examples, we show how this technique can be used to monitor changes in mRNA expression following activation, how it can be combined with antibody staining to study RNA and protein in the same sample, and how it can help distinguish among subsets in a mixed cell population. X-FISH can integrate multiple probes and can be performed in conjunction with other assays, allowing for informative multiparametric analyses and increased statistical robustness. For non-classical comparative animal models this procedure provides a time saving alternative to de novo production of antibody-based markers. Finally, X-FISH provides an economical solution that is applicable to conventional as well as multi-spectral imaging flow cytometry platforms.
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Peretz Y, Wu H, Patel S, Bellacosa A, Katz RA. Inhibitor of DNA Binding 4 (ID4) is highly expressed in human melanoma tissues and may function to restrict normal differentiation of melanoma cells. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0116839. [PMID: 25642713 PMCID: PMC4314081 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0116839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2014] [Accepted: 12/15/2014] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Melanoma tissues and cell lines are heterogeneous, and include cells with invasive, proliferative, stem cell-like, and differentiated properties. Such heterogeneity likely contributes to the aggressiveness of the disease and resistance to therapy. One model suggests that heterogeneity arises from rare cancer stem cells (CSCs) that produce distinct cancer cell lineages. Another model suggests that heterogeneity arises through reversible cellular plasticity, or phenotype-switching. Recent work indicates that phenotype-switching may include the ability of cancer cells to dedifferentiate to a stem cell-like state. We set out to investigate the phenotype-switching capabilities of melanoma cells, and used unbiased methods to identify genes that may control such switching. We developed a system to reversibly synchronize melanoma cells between 2D-monolayer and 3D-stem cell-like growth states. Melanoma cells maintained in the stem cell-like state showed a striking upregulation of a gene set related to development and neural stem cell biology, which included SRY-box 2 (SOX2) and Inhibitor of DNA Binding 4 (ID4). A gene set related to cancer cell motility and invasiveness was concomitantly downregulated. Intense and pervasive ID4 protein expression was detected in human melanoma tissue samples, suggesting disease relevance for this protein. SiRNA knockdown of ID4 inhibited switching from monolayer to 3D-stem cell-like growth, and instead promoted switching to a highly differentiated, neuronal-like morphology. We suggest that ID4 is upregulated in melanoma as part of a stem cell-like program that facilitates further adaptive plasticity. ID4 may contribute to disease by preventing stem cell-like melanoma cells from progressing to a normal differentiated state. This interpretation is guided by the known role of ID4 as a differentiation inhibitor during normal development. The melanoma stem cell-like state may be protected by factors such as ID4, thereby potentially identifying a new therapeutic vulnerability to drive differentiation to the normal cell phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuval Peretz
- Fox Chase Cancer Center, Temple University Health System, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Hong Wu
- Fox Chase Cancer Center, Temple University Health System, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Shayan Patel
- Fox Chase Cancer Center, Temple University Health System, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Alfonso Bellacosa
- Fox Chase Cancer Center, Temple University Health System, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Richard A. Katz
- Fox Chase Cancer Center, Temple University Health System, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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30
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Calvanese L, Sandomenico A, Caporale A, Focà A, Focà G, D'Auria G, Falcigno L, Ruvo M. Conformational features and binding affinities to Cripto, ALK7 and ALK4 of Nodal synthetic fragments. J Pept Sci 2015; 21:283-93. [PMID: 25588905 DOI: 10.1002/psc.2733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2014] [Revised: 12/03/2014] [Accepted: 12/03/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Nodal, a member of the TGF-β superfamily, is a potent embryonic morphogen also implicated in tumor progression. As for other TGF-βs, it triggers the signaling functions through the interaction with the extracellular domains of type I and type II serine/threonine kinase receptors and with the co-receptor Cripto. Recently, we reported the molecular models of Nodal in complex with its type I receptors (ALK4 and ALK7) as well as with Cripto, as obtained by homology modeling and docking simulations. From such models, potential binding epitopes have been identified. To validate such hypotheses, a series of mutated Nodal fragments have been synthesized. These peptide analogs encompass residues 44-67 of the Nodal protein, corresponding to the pre-helix loop and the H3 helix, and reproduce the wild-type sequence or bear some modifications to evaluate the hot-spot role of modified residues in the receptor binding. Here, we show the structural characterization in solution by CD and NMR of the Nodal peptides and the measurement of binding affinity toward Cripto by surface plasmon resonance. Data collected by both conformational analyses and binding measurements suggest a role for Y58 of Nodal in the recognition with Cripto and confirm that previously reported for E49 and E50. Surface plasmon resonance binding assays with recombinant proteins show that Nodal interacts in vitro also with ALK7 and ALK4 and preliminary data, generated using the Nodal synthetic fragments, suggest that Y58 of Nodal may also be involved in the recognition with these protein partners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luisa Calvanese
- CIRPeB, University of Naples Federico II, via Mezzocannone, 16, 80134, Napoli, Italy
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