1
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Wieder R. Fibroblasts as Turned Agents in Cancer Progression. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15072014. [PMID: 37046676 PMCID: PMC10093070 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15072014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Differentiated epithelial cells reside in the homeostatic microenvironment of the native organ stroma. The stroma supports their normal function, their G0 differentiated state, and their expansion/contraction through the various stages of the life cycle and physiologic functions of the host. When malignant transformation begins, the microenvironment tries to suppress and eliminate the transformed cells, while cancer cells, in turn, try to resist these suppressive efforts. The tumor microenvironment encompasses a large variety of cell types recruited by the tumor to perform different functions, among which fibroblasts are the most abundant. The dynamics of the mutual relationship change as the sides undertake an epic battle for control of the other. In the process, the cancer “wounds” the microenvironment through a variety of mechanisms and attracts distant mesenchymal stem cells to change their function from one attempting to suppress the cancer, to one that supports its growth, survival, and metastasis. Analogous reciprocal interactions occur as well between disseminated cancer cells and the metastatic microenvironment, where the microenvironment attempts to eliminate cancer cells or suppress their proliferation. However, the altered microenvironmental cells acquire novel characteristics that support malignant progression. Investigations have attempted to use these traits as targets of novel therapeutic approaches.
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2
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ZO-1 Guides Tight Junction Assembly and Epithelial Morphogenesis via Cytoskeletal Tension-Dependent and -Independent Functions. Cells 2022; 11:cells11233775. [PMID: 36497035 PMCID: PMC9740252 DOI: 10.3390/cells11233775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Formation and maintenance of tissue barriers require the coordination of cell mechanics and cell-cell junction assembly. Here, we combined methods to modulate ECM stiffness and to measure mechanical forces on adhesion complexes to investigate how tight junctions regulate cell mechanics and epithelial morphogenesis. We found that depletion of the tight junction adaptor ZO-1 disrupted junction assembly and morphogenesis in an ECM stiffness-dependent manner and led to a stiffness-dependant reorganisation of active myosin. Both junction formation and morphogenesis were rescued by inhibition of actomyosin contractility. ZO-1 depletion also impacted mechanical tension at cell-matrix and E-cadherin-based cell-cell adhesions. The effect on E-cadherin also depended on ECM stiffness and correlated with effects of ECM stiffness on actin cytoskeleton organisation. However, ZO-1 knockout also revealed tension-independent functions of ZO-1. ZO-1-deficient cells could assemble functional barriers at low tension, but their tight junctions remained corrupted with strongly reduced and discontinuous recruitment of junctional components. Our results thus reveal that reciprocal regulation between ZO-1 and cell mechanics controls tight junction assembly and epithelial morphogenesis, and that, in a second, tension-independent step, ZO-1 is required to assemble morphologically and structurally fully assembled and functionally normal tight junctions.
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Aoyama M, Ishikawa K, Nemoto S, Hirano H, Watanabe N, Osada H, Watanabe S, Semba K. Lonidamine and domperidone inhibit expansion of transformed cell areas by modulating motility of surrounding nontransformed cells. J Biol Chem 2022; 298:102635. [PMID: 36273581 PMCID: PMC9706533 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.102635] [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: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer cells intrinsically proliferate in an autonomous manner; however, the expansion of cancer cell areas in a tissue is known to be regulated by surrounding nontransformed cells. Whether these nontransformed cells can be targeted to control the spread of cancer cells is not understood. In this study, we established a system to evaluate the cancer-inhibitory activity of surrounding nontransformed cells and screened chemical compounds that could induce this activity. Our findings revealed that lonidamine (LND) and domperidone (DPD) inhibited expansion of oncogenic foci of KRASG12D-expressing transformed cells, whereas they did not inhibit the proliferation of monocultured KRASG12D-expressing cells. Live imaging revealed that LND and DPD suppressed the movement of nontransformed cells away from the attaching cancer cells. Moreover, we determined that LND and DPD promoted stress fiber formation, and the dominant-negative mutant of a small GTPase RhoA relieved the suppression of focus expansion, suggesting that RhoA-mediated stress fiber formation is involved in the inhibition of the movement of nontransformed cells and focus expansion. In conclusion, we suggest that elucidation of the mechanism of action of LND and DPD may lead to the development of a new type of drug that could induce the anticancer activity of surrounding nontransformed cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megumi Aoyama
- Department of Life Science and Medical Bioscience, School of Advanced Science and Engineering, Waseda University, Tokyo, Japan,For correspondence: Megumi Aoyama; Kentaro Semba
| | - Kosuke Ishikawa
- Japan Biological Informatics Consortium (JBiC), Koto-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shuntaro Nemoto
- Department of Life Science and Medical Bioscience, School of Advanced Science and Engineering, Waseda University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Hirano
- RIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science, Wako, Saitama, Japan
| | | | - Hiroyuki Osada
- RIKEN Center for Sustainable Resource Science, Wako, Saitama, Japan,Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Shizuoka, Suruga-ku, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Shinya Watanabe
- Translational Research Center, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan
| | - Kentaro Semba
- Department of Life Science and Medical Bioscience, School of Advanced Science and Engineering, Waseda University, Tokyo, Japan,Translational Research Center, Fukushima Medical University, Fukushima, Japan,For correspondence: Megumi Aoyama; Kentaro Semba
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4
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How do cells stiffen? Biochem J 2022; 479:1825-1842. [PMID: 36094371 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20210806] [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: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 08/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Cell stiffness is an important characteristic of cells and their response to external stimuli. In this review, we survey methods used to measure cell stiffness, summarize stimuli that alter cell stiffness, and discuss signaling pathways and mechanisms that control cell stiffness. Several pathological states are characterized by changes in cell stiffness, suggesting this property can serve as a potential diagnostic marker or therapeutic target. Therefore, we consider the effect of cell stiffness on signaling and growth processes required for homeostasis and dysfunction in healthy and pathological states. Specifically, the composition and structure of the cell membrane and cytoskeleton are major determinants of cell stiffness, and studies have identified signaling pathways that affect cytoskeletal dynamics both directly and by altered gene expression. We present the results of studies interrogating the effects of biophysical and biochemical stimuli on the cytoskeleton and other cellular components and how these factors determine the stiffness of both individual cells and multicellular structures. Overall, these studies represent an intersection of the fields of polymer physics, protein biochemistry, and mechanics, and identify specific mechanisms involved in mediating cell stiffness that can serve as therapeutic targets.
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5
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Fernández-Simón E, Suárez-Calvet X, Carrasco-Rozas A, Piñol-Jurado P, López-Fernández S, Pons G, Bech Serra JJ, de la Torre C, de Luna N, Gallardo E, Díaz-Manera J. RhoA/ROCK2 signalling is enhanced by PDGF-AA in fibro-adipogenic progenitor cells: implications for Duchenne muscular dystrophy. J Cachexia Sarcopenia Muscle 2022; 13:1373-1384. [PMID: 35132805 PMCID: PMC8977967 DOI: 10.1002/jcsm.12923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Revised: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The lack of dystrophin expression in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) induces muscle fibre and replacement by fibro-adipose tissue. Although the role of some growth factors in the process of fibrogenesis has been studied, pathways activated by PDGF-AA have not been described so far. Our aim was to study the molecular role of PDGF-AA in the fibrotic process of DMD. METHODS Skeletal muscle fibro-adipogenic progenitor cells (FAPs) from three DMD treated with PDGF-AA at 50 ng/mL were analysed by quantitative mass spectrometry-based proteomics. Western-blot, immunofluorescence, and G-LISA were used to confirm the mass spectrometry results. We evaluated the effects of PDGF-AA on the activation of RhoA pathway using two inhibitors, C3-exoenzyme and fasudil. Cell proliferation and migration were determined by BrdU and migration assay. Actin reorganization and collagen synthesis were measured by phalloidin staining and Sircol assay, respectively. In an in vivo proof of concept study, we treated dba/2J-mdx mice with fasudil for 6 weeks. Muscle strength was assessed with the grip strength. Immunofluorescence and flow cytometry analyses were used to study fibrotic and inflammatory markers in muscle tissue. RESULTS Mass spectrometry revealed that RhoA pathway proteins were up-regulated in treated compared with non-treated DMD FAPs (n = 3, mean age = 8 ± 1.15 years old). Validation of proteomic data showed that Arhgef2 expression was significantly increased in DMD muscles compared with healthy controls by a 7.7-fold increase (n = 2, mean age = 8 ± 1.14 years old). In vitro studies showed that RhoA/ROCK2 pathway was significantly activated by PDGF-AA (n = 3, 1.88-fold increase, P < 0.01) and both C3-exoenzyme and fasudil blocked that activation (n = 3, P < 0.05 and P < 0.001, respectively). The activation of RhoA pathway by PDGF-AA promoted a significant increase in proliferation and migration of FAPs (n = 3, P < 0.001), while C3-exoenzyme and fasudil inhibited FAPs proliferation at 72 h and migration at 48 and 72 h (n = 3, P < 0.001). In vivo studies showed that fasudil improved muscle function (n = 5 non-treated dba/2J-mdx and n = 6 treated dba/2J-mdx, 1.76-fold increase, P < 0.013), and histological studies demonstrated a 23% reduction of collagen-I expression area (n = 5 non-treated dba/2J-mdx and n = 6 treated dba/2J-mdx, P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that PDGF-AA promotes the activation of RhoA pathway in FAPs from DMD patients. This pathway could be involved in FAPs activation promoting its proliferation, migration, and actin reorganization, which represents the beginning of the fibrotic process. The inhibition of RhoA pathway could be considered as a potential therapeutic target for muscle fibrosis in patients with muscular dystrophies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther Fernández-Simón
- Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Neurology Department, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau and Biomedical Research Institute Sant Pau (IIB Sant Pau), Barcelona, Spain.,John Walton Muscular Dystrophy Research Center, University of Newcastle, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Xavier Suárez-Calvet
- Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Neurology Department, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau and Biomedical Research Institute Sant Pau (IIB Sant Pau), Barcelona, Spain.,Centro de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Red en Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Carrasco-Rozas
- Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Neurology Department, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau and Biomedical Research Institute Sant Pau (IIB Sant Pau), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Patricia Piñol-Jurado
- Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Neurology Department, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau and Biomedical Research Institute Sant Pau (IIB Sant Pau), Barcelona, Spain.,John Walton Muscular Dystrophy Research Center, University of Newcastle, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Susana López-Fernández
- Plastic Surgery Department, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gemma Pons
- Plastic Surgery Department, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | - Noemí de Luna
- Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Neurology Department, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau and Biomedical Research Institute Sant Pau (IIB Sant Pau), Barcelona, Spain.,Centro de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Red en Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Madrid, Spain
| | - Eduard Gallardo
- Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Neurology Department, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau and Biomedical Research Institute Sant Pau (IIB Sant Pau), Barcelona, Spain.,Centro de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Red en Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Madrid, Spain
| | - Jordi Díaz-Manera
- Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, Neurology Department, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau and Biomedical Research Institute Sant Pau (IIB Sant Pau), Barcelona, Spain.,Centro de Investigaciones Biomédicas en Red en Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Madrid, Spain.,John Walton Muscular Dystrophy Research Center, University of Newcastle, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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Second-Generation JK-206 Targets the Oncogenic Signal Mediator RHOA in Gastric Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14071604. [PMID: 35406376 PMCID: PMC8997135 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14071604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Ras homologous A (RHOA), a signal mediator and a GTPase, is known to be associated with the progression of gastric cancer (GC), which is the fourth most common cause of death in the world. Previously, we designed pharmacologically optimized inhibitors against RHOA, including JK-136 and JK-139. Based on this previous work, we performed lead optimization and designed novel RHOA inhibitors for greater anti-GC potency. Two of these compounds, JK-206 and JK-312, could successfully inhibit the viability and migration of GC cell lines. Furthermore, using transcriptomic analysis of GC cells treated with JK-206, we revealed that the inhibition of RHOA might be associated with the inhibition of the mitogenic pathway. Therefore, JK-206 treatment for RHOA inhibition may be a new therapeutic strategy for regulating GC proliferation and migration.
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Sharma V, Letson J, Furuta S. Fibrous stroma: Driver and passenger in cancer development. Sci Signal 2022; 15:eabg3449. [PMID: 35258999 DOI: 10.1126/scisignal.abg3449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Cumulative evidence shows that fibrogenic stroma and stiff extracellular matrix (ECM) not only result from tumor growth but also play pivotal roles in cellular transformation and tumor initiation. This emerging concept may largely account for the increased cancer risk associated with environmental fibrogenic agents, such as asbestos and silica, and with chronic conditions that are fibrogenic, such as obesity and diabetes. It may also contribute to poor outcomes in patients treated with certain chemotherapeutics that can promote fibrosis, such as bleomycin and methotrexate. Although the mechanistic details of this phenomenon are still being unraveled, we provide an overview of the experimental evidence linking fibrogenic stroma and tumor initiation. In this Review, we will summarize the causes and consequences of fibrous stroma and how this stromal cue is transmitted to the nuclei of parenchymal cells through a physical continuum from the ECM to chromatin, as well as ECM-dependent biochemical signaling that contributes to cellular transformation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vandana Sharma
- Department of Cancer Biology, College of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Toledo Health Science Campus, 3000 Arlington Ave., Toledo, OH 43614, USA
| | - Joshua Letson
- Department of Cancer Biology, College of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Toledo Health Science Campus, 3000 Arlington Ave., Toledo, OH 43614, USA
| | - Saori Furuta
- Department of Cancer Biology, College of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Toledo Health Science Campus, 3000 Arlington Ave., Toledo, OH 43614, USA
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8
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Metastasising Fibroblasts Show an HDAC6-Dependent Increase in Migration Speed and Loss of Directionality Linked to Major Changes in the Vimentin Interactome. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23041961. [PMID: 35216078 PMCID: PMC8880509 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23041961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Metastasising cells express the intermediate filament protein vimentin, which is used to diagnose invasive tumours in the clinic. We aimed to clarify how vimentin regulates the motility of metastasising fibroblasts. STED super-resolution microscopy, live-cell imaging and quantitative proteomics revealed that oncogene-expressing and metastasising fibroblasts show a less-elongated cell shape, reduced cell spreading, increased cell migration speed, reduced directionality, and stronger coupling between these migration parameters compared to normal control cells. In total, we identified and compared 555 proteins in the vimentin interactome. In metastasising cells, the levels of keratin 18 and Rab5C were increased, while those of actin and collagen were decreased. Inhibition of HDAC6 reversed the shape, spreading and migration phenotypes of metastasising cells back to normal. Inhibition of HDAC6 also decreased the levels of talin 1, tropomyosin, Rab GDI β, collagen and emilin 1 in the vimentin interactome, and partially reversed the nanoscale vimentin organisation in oncogene-expressing cells. These findings describe the changes in the vimentin interactome and nanoscale distribution that accompany the defective cell shape, spreading and migration of metastasising cells. These results support the hypothesis that oncogenes can act through HDAC6 to regulate the vimentin binding of the cytoskeletal and cell–extracellular matrix adhesion components that contribute to the defective motility of metastasising cells.
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9
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Simon T, Salhia B. Cancer-Associated Fibroblast Subpopulations With Diverse and Dynamic Roles in the Tumor Microenvironment. Mol Cancer Res 2022; 20:183-192. [PMID: 34670861 PMCID: PMC9306405 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-21-0282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Revised: 08/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Close interactions between cancer cells and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) have repeatedly been reported to support tumor progression. Yet, targeting CAFs has so far failed to show a real benefit in cancer treatment, as preclinical studies have shown that such a strategy can enhance tumor growth. Accordingly, recent paradigm-shifting data suggest that certain CAF subpopulations could also show tumor-inhibitory capabilities. The present review aims to provide an in-depth description of the cellular heterogeneity of the CAF compartment in tumors. Through combining information from different cancer types, here we define 4 main CAF subpopulations that might cohabitate in any tumor microenvironment (TME). In addition, a model for the evolution of CAFs during tumor development is introduced. Moreover, the presence of tumor-inhibitory CAFs in the TME as well as their molecular characteristics are extensively discussed. Finally, the potential cellular origins of these distinct CAF subpopulations are reviewed. To our knowledge, this is the first attempt at establishing a broad but comprehensive classification of CAF subpopulations. Altogether, the present manuscript aims to provide the latest developments and innovative insights that could help refine future therapeutic targeting of CAFs for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Simon
- Department of Translational Genomics, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Bodour Salhia
- Department of Translational Genomics, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California.,Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California.,Corresponding Author: Bodour Salhia, Department of Translational Genomics, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, 1450 Biggy Street, Los Angeles, CA 90033. Phone: 323-442-3099; E-mail:
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10
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Zhang Z, Liu M, Zheng Y. Role of Rho GTPases in stem cell regulation. Biochem Soc Trans 2021; 49:2941-2955. [PMID: 34854916 PMCID: PMC9008577 DOI: 10.1042/bst20211071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The future of regenerative medicine relies on our understanding of stem cells which are essential for tissue/organ generation and regeneration to maintain and/or restore tissue homeostasis. Rho family GTPases are known regulators of a wide variety of cellular processes related to cytoskeletal dynamics, polarity and gene transcription. In the last decade, major new advances have been made in understanding the regulatory role and mechanism of Rho GTPases in self-renewal, differentiation, migration, and lineage specification in tissue-specific signaling mechanisms in various stem cell types to regulate embryonic development, adult tissue homeostasis, and tissue regeneration upon stress or damage. Importantly, implication of Rho GTPases and their upstream regulators or downstream effectors in the transformation, migration, invasion and tumorigenesis of diverse cancer stem cells highlights the potential of Rho GTPase targeting in cancer therapy. In this review, we discuss recent evidence of Rho GTPase signaling in the regulation of embryonic stem cells, multiple somatic stem cells, and cancer stem cells. We propose promising areas where Rho GTPase pathways may serve as useful targets for stem cell manipulation and related future therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Zhang
- Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Children’s Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229, U.S.A
| | - Ming Liu
- Department of Abdominal Oncology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yi Zheng
- Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Children’s Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, 3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45229, U.S.A
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Crosas-Molist E, Samain R, Kohlhammer L, Orgaz J, George S, Maiques O, Barcelo J, Sanz-Moreno V. RhoGTPase Signalling in Cancer Progression and Dissemination. Physiol Rev 2021; 102:455-510. [PMID: 34541899 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00045.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Rho GTPases are a family of small G proteins that regulate a wide array of cellular processes related to their key roles controlling the cytoskeleton. On the other hand, cancer is a multi-step disease caused by the accumulation of genetic mutations and epigenetic alterations, from the initial stages of cancer development when cells in normal tissues undergo transformation, to the acquisition of invasive and metastatic traits, responsible for a large number of cancer related deaths. In this review, we discuss the role of Rho GTPase signalling in cancer in every step of disease progression. Rho GTPases contribute to tumour initiation and progression, by regulating proliferation and apoptosis, but also metabolism, senescence and cell stemness. Rho GTPases play a major role in cell migration, and in the metastatic process. They are also involved in interactions with the tumour microenvironment and regulate inflammation, contributing to cancer progression. After years of intensive research, we highlight the importance of relevant models in the Rho GTPase field, and we reflect on the therapeutic opportunities arising for cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Crosas-Molist
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Remi Samain
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Leonie Kohlhammer
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jose Orgaz
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom.,Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas 'Alberto Sols', CSIC-UAM, 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | - Samantha George
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Oscar Maiques
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jaume Barcelo
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
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Kalita B, Coumar MS. Deciphering molecular mechanisms of metastasis: novel insights into targets and therapeutics. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2021; 44:751-775. [PMID: 33914273 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-021-00611-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2020] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The transition of a primary tumour to metastatic progression is driven by dynamic molecular changes, including genetic and epigenetic alterations. The metastatic cascade involves bidirectional interactions among extracellular and intracellular components leading to disintegration of cellular junctions, cytoskeleton reorganization and epithelial to mesenchymal transition. These events promote metastasis by reprogramming the primary cancer cell's molecular framework, enabling them to cause local invasion, anchorage-independent survival, cell death and immune resistance, extravasation and colonization of distant organs. Metastasis follows a site-specific pattern that is still poorly understood at the molecular level. Although various drugs have been tested clinically across different metastatic cancer types, it has remained difficult to develop efficacious therapeutics due to complex molecular layers involved in metastasis as well as experimental limitations. CONCLUSIONS In this review, a systemic evaluation of the molecular mechanisms of metastasis is outlined and the potential molecular components and their status as therapeutic targets and the associated pre-clinical and clinical agents available or under investigations are discussed. Integrative methods like pan-cancer data analysis, which can provide clinical insights into both targets and treatment decisions and help in the identification of crucial components driving metastasis such as mutational profiles, gene signatures, associated pathways, site specificities and disease-gene phenotypes, are discussed. A multi-level data integration of the metastasis signatures across multiple primary and metastatic cancer types may facilitate the development of precision medicine and open up new opportunities for future therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bikashita Kalita
- Centre for Bioinformatics, School of Life Sciences, Pondicherry University, Kalapet, Pondicherry, 605014, India
| | - Mohane Selvaraj Coumar
- Centre for Bioinformatics, School of Life Sciences, Pondicherry University, Kalapet, Pondicherry, 605014, India.
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13
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Wang W, Gao J. Effects of melatonin on protecting against lung injury (Review). Exp Ther Med 2021; 21:228. [PMID: 33603837 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2021.9659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Melatonin (MT; N-acetyl-5-methoxy-tryptamine), which has multiple effects and roles, is secreted from the pineal gland at night according to the daily rhythm. In addition to circadian regulation, MT has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anticancer functions. Recent studies postulated that MT serves a critical role in apoptosis, anti-ischemic reperfusion injury and anti-proliferative effects on various cells. The current review reported on the underlying mechanism behind the protective effect of MT on lung diseases, such as acute lung injury, acute respiratory distress syndrome, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung ischemia-reperfusion injury, sepsis-induced lung injury and ventilator-induced lung injury. MT is considered an adjuvant with therapeutic drugs for preventing inflammation and is responsible for regulating patient sleep cycles in the intensive care unit. The current review described the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant efficiency of MT with a focus on the molecular mechanisms of action in various lung injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiwei Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Clinical Medical College of Yangzhou University, Northern Jiangsu People's Hospital Affiliated to Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225001, P.R. China
| | - Ju Gao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Clinical Medical College of Yangzhou University, Northern Jiangsu People's Hospital Affiliated to Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225001, P.R. China
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14
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Chen Y, Xue F, Russo A, Wan Y. Proteomic Analysis of Extracellular Vesicles Derived from MDA-MB-231 Cells in Microgravity. Protein J 2021; 40:108-118. [PMID: 33387250 DOI: 10.1007/s10930-020-09949-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Patients with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) have a relatively poor prognosis and cannot benefit from endocrine and/or targeted therapy. Considerable effort has been devoted toward the elucidation of the molecular mechanisms and potential diagnostic/therapeutic targets. However, it is inefficient and often ineffective to study the biological nuances of TNBC in large-scale clinical trials. In contrast, the investigation of the association between molecular alterations induced through controlled variables and relevant physiochemical characteristics of TNBC cells in laboratory settings is simple, definite, and efficient in exploring the molecular mechanisms. In this study, microgravity was selected as the sole variable of study as it can inhibit cancer cell viability, proliferation, metastasis, and chemoresistance. Identifying the key molecules that shift cancer cells toward a less aggressive phenotype may facilitate future TNBC studies. We focused on extracellular vesicles (EV) derived from TNBC MDA-MB-231 cells in microgravity, which mediate intercellular communication by transporting signaling molecules between cells. Our results show that in comparison with cells in full gravity, EV release rate decreased in microgravity while average EV size increased. In addition, we found EVs may be superior to cells in analyzing differentially expressed proteins, especially those that are down-regulated ones and usually unidentified or neglected in analysis of intact cellular contents. Proteomic analysis of both EVs and cells further revealed a significant correlation with GTPases and proliferation of MDA-MB-231 cells in microgravity. Altogether, our findings would further inspire in-depth correlative cancer biological studies and subsequent clinical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yundi Chen
- The Pq Laboratory of Micro/Nano BiomeDx, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Binghamton University-SUNY, Binghamton, New York, 13902, USA
| | - Fei Xue
- The Pq Laboratory of Micro/Nano BiomeDx, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Binghamton University-SUNY, Binghamton, New York, 13902, USA
| | - Andrea Russo
- The Pq Laboratory of Micro/Nano BiomeDx, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Binghamton University-SUNY, Binghamton, New York, 13902, USA
| | - Yuan Wan
- The Pq Laboratory of Micro/Nano BiomeDx, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Binghamton University-SUNY, Binghamton, New York, 13902, USA. .,, Biotechnology Building, Room 2625, 65 Murray Hill Road, Vestal, New York, 13850, USA.
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15
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Haas AJ, Zihni C, Ruppel A, Hartmann C, Ebnet K, Tada M, Balda MS, Matter K. Interplay between Extracellular Matrix Stiffness and JAM-A Regulates Mechanical Load on ZO-1 and Tight Junction Assembly. Cell Rep 2020; 32:107924. [PMID: 32697990 PMCID: PMC7383227 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2020.107924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2019] [Revised: 05/08/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Tight-junction-regulated actomyosin activity determines epithelial and endothelial tension on adherens junctions and drives morphogenetic processes; however, whether or not tight junctions themselves are under tensile stress is not clear. Here, we use a tension sensor based on ZO-1, a scaffolding protein that links the junctional membrane to the cytoskeleton, to determine if tight junctions carry a mechanical load. Our data indicate that ZO-1 is under mechanical tension and that forces acting on ZO-1 are regulated by extracellular matrix (ECM) stiffness and the junctional adhesion molecule JAM-A. JAM-A depletion stimulates junctional recruitment of p114RhoGEF/ARHGEF18, mechanical tension on ZO-1, and traction forces at focal adhesions. p114RhoGEF is required for activation of junctional actomyosin activity and tight junction integrity on stiff but not soft ECM. Thus, junctional ZO-1 bears a mechanical load, and junction assembly is regulated by interplay between the physical properties of the ECM and adhesion-regulated signaling at tight junctions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis J Haas
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Ceniz Zihni
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London EC1V 9EL, UK
| | - Artur Ruppel
- LiPhy, CNRS, Université Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble 38000, France
| | - Christian Hartmann
- Institute-associated Research Group "Cell adhesion and cell polarity," Institute of Medical Biochemistry, ZMBE, University of Münster, Münster 48149, Germany
| | - Klaus Ebnet
- Institute-associated Research Group "Cell adhesion and cell polarity," Institute of Medical Biochemistry, ZMBE, University of Münster, Münster 48149, Germany
| | - Masazumi Tada
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Maria S Balda
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London EC1V 9EL, UK.
| | - Karl Matter
- UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London, London EC1V 9EL, UK.
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16
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Wieleba I, Wojas-Krawczyk K, Krawczyk P. Aptamers in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Treatment. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25143138. [PMID: 32659994 PMCID: PMC7396979 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25143138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Revised: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Aptamers are short, single-stranded oligonucleotides which are capable of specifically binding to single molecules and cellular structures. Aptamers are also known as “chemical antibodies”. Compared to monoclonal antibodies, they are characterized by higher reaction specificity, lower molecular weight, lower production costs, and lower variability in the production stage. Aptamer research has been extended during the past twenty years, but only Macugen® has been accepted by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to date, and few aptamers have been examined in clinical trials. In vitro studies with aptamers have shown that they may take part in the regulation of cancer progression, angiogenesis, and metastasis processes. In this article, we focus on the potential use of aptamers in non-small cell lung cancer treatment.
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17
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Guven-Maiorov E, Tsai CJ, Nussinov R. Oncoviruses Can Drive Cancer by Rewiring Signaling Pathways Through Interface Mimicry. Front Oncol 2019; 9:1236. [PMID: 31803618 PMCID: PMC6872517 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2019.01236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Oncoviruses rewire host pathways to subvert host immunity and promote their survival and proliferation. However, exactly how is challenging to understand. Here, by employing the first and to date only interface-based host-microbe interaction (HMI) prediction method, we explore a pivotal strategy oncoviruses use to drive cancer: mimicking binding surfaces-interfaces-of human proteins. We show that oncoviruses can target key human network proteins and transform cells by acquisition of cancer hallmarks. Experimental large-scale mapping of HMIs is difficult and individual HMIs do not permit in-depth grasp of tumorigenic virulence mechanisms. Our computational approach is tractable and 3D structural HMI models can help elucidate pathogenesis mechanisms and facilitate drug design. We observe that many host proteins are unique targets for certain oncoviruses, whereas others are common to several, suggesting similar infectious strategies. A rough estimation of our false discovery rate based on the tissue expression of oncovirus-targeted human proteins is 25%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emine Guven-Maiorov
- Computational Structural Biology Section, Basic Science Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Chung-Jung Tsai
- Computational Structural Biology Section, Basic Science Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Ruth Nussinov
- Computational Structural Biology Section, Basic Science Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, United States
- Department of Human Genetics and Molecular Medicine, Sackler Institute of Molecular Medicine, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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18
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Jeggari A, Alekseenko Z, Petrov I, Dias JM, Ericson J, Alexeyenko A. EviNet: a web platform for network enrichment analysis with flexible definition of gene sets. Nucleic Acids Res 2019; 46:W163-W170. [PMID: 29893885 PMCID: PMC6030852 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gky485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2018] [Accepted: 05/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The new web resource EviNet provides an easily run interface to network enrichment analysis for exploration of novel, experimentally defined gene sets. The major advantages of this analysis are (i) applicability to any genes found in the global network rather than only to those with pathway/ontology term annotations, (ii) ability to connect genes via different molecular mechanisms rather than within one high-throughput platform, and (iii) statistical power sufficient to detect enrichment of very small sets, down to individual genes. The users’ gene sets are either defined prior to upload or derived interactively from an uploaded file by differential expression criteria. The pathways and networks used in the analysis can be chosen from the collection menu. The calculation is typically done within seconds or minutes and the stable URL is provided immediately. The results are presented in both visual (network graphs) and tabular formats using jQuery libraries. Uploaded data and analysis results are kept in separated project directories not accessible by other users. EviNet is available at https://www.evinet.org/.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashwini Jeggari
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Zhanna Alekseenko
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Iurii Petrov
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology (MTC), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - José M Dias
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Johan Ericson
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Karolinska Institutet, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Andrey Alexeyenko
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology (MTC), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,National Bioinformatics Infrastructure Sweden, Science for Life Laboratory, Box 1031, 171 21 Solna, Sweden
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19
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Chandler C, Liu T, Buckanovich R, Coffman LG. The double edge sword of fibrosis in cancer. Transl Res 2019; 209:55-67. [PMID: 30871956 PMCID: PMC6545239 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2019.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2018] [Revised: 02/12/2019] [Accepted: 02/15/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibrosis is a critical component of the tumor microenvironment (TME) which significantly impacts cancer behavior. However, there is significant controversy regarding fibrosis as a predominantly tumor promoting or tumor suppressing factor. Cells essential to the generation of tissue fibrosis such as fibroblasts and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have dual phenotypes dependent upon their independence or association with cancer cells. Cancer-associated fibroblasts and cancer-associated MSCs have unique molecular profiles which facilitate cancer cell cross talk, influence extracellular matrix deposition, and direct the immune system to generate a protumorigenic environment. In contrast, normal tissue fibroblasts and MSCs are important in restraining cancer initiation, influencing epithelial cell differentiation, and limiting cancer cell invasion. We propose this apparent dichotomy of function is due to (1) cancer mediated stromal reprogramming; (2) tissue stromal source; (3) unique subtypes of fibrosis; and (4) the impact of fibrosis on other TME elements. First, as cancer progresses, tumor cells influence their surrounding stroma to move from a cancer restraining phenotype into a cancer supportive role. Second, cancer has specific organ tropism, thus stroma derived from preferred metastatic organs support growth while less preferred metastatic tissues do not. Third, there are subtypes of fibrosis which have unique function to support or inhibit cancer growth. Fourth, depleting fibrosis influences other TME components which drive the cancer response. Collectively, this review highlights the complexity of cancer-associated fibrosis and supports a dual function of fibrosis which evolves during the continuum of cancer growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chelsea Chandler
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Tianshi Liu
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Ronald Buckanovich
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Division of Hematology Oncology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Lan G Coffman
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Division of Hematology Oncology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
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20
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Zorzan M, Collazuol D, Ribaudo G, Ongaro A, Scaroni C, Zagotto G, Armanini D, Barollo S, Galeotti F, Volpi N, Redaelli M, Pezzani R. Biological effects and potential mechanisms of action of Pistacia lentiscus Chios mastic extract in Caco-2 cell model. J Funct Foods 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2019.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
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21
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Danielsson F, Peterson MK, Caldeira Araújo H, Lautenschläger F, Gad AKB. Vimentin Diversity in Health and Disease. Cells 2018; 7:E147. [PMID: 30248895 PMCID: PMC6210396 DOI: 10.3390/cells7100147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 157] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2018] [Revised: 09/16/2018] [Accepted: 09/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Vimentin is a protein that has been linked to a large variety of pathophysiological conditions, including cataracts, Crohn's disease, rheumatoid arthritis, HIV and cancer. Vimentin has also been shown to regulate a wide spectrum of basic cellular functions. In cells, vimentin assembles into a network of filaments that spans the cytoplasm. It can also be found in smaller, non-filamentous forms that can localise both within cells and within the extracellular microenvironment. The vimentin structure can be altered by subunit exchange, cleavage into different sizes, re-annealing, post-translational modifications and interacting proteins. Together with the observation that different domains of vimentin might have evolved under different selection pressures that defined distinct biological functions for different parts of the protein, the many diverse variants of vimentin might be the cause of its functional diversity. A number of review articles have focussed on the biology and medical aspects of intermediate filament proteins without particular commitment to vimentin, and other reviews have focussed on intermediate filaments in an in vitro context. In contrast, the present review focusses almost exclusively on vimentin, and covers both ex vivo and in vivo data from tissue culture and from living organisms, including a summary of the many phenotypes of vimentin knockout animals. Our aim is to provide a comprehensive overview of the current understanding of the many diverse aspects of vimentin, from biochemical, mechanical, cellular, systems biology and medical perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frida Danielsson
- Science for Life Laboratory, Royal Institute of Technology, 17165 Stockholm, Sweden.
| | | | | | - Franziska Lautenschläger
- Campus D2 2, Leibniz-Institut für Neue Materialien gGmbH (INM) and Experimental Physics, NT Faculty, E 2 6, Saarland University, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany.
| | - Annica Karin Britt Gad
- Centro de Química da Madeira, Universidade da Madeira, 9020105 Funchal, Portugal.
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Uppsala University, 75237 Uppsala, Sweden.
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22
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Foster DS, Jones RE, Ransom RC, Longaker MT, Norton JA. The evolving relationship of wound healing and tumor stroma. JCI Insight 2018; 3:99911. [PMID: 30232274 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.99911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The stroma in solid tumors contains a variety of cellular phenotypes and signaling pathways associated with wound healing, leading to the concept that a tumor behaves as a wound that does not heal. Similarities between tumors and healing wounds include fibroblast recruitment and activation, extracellular matrix (ECM) component deposition, infiltration of immune cells, neovascularization, and cellular lineage plasticity. However, unlike a wound that heals, the edges of a tumor are constantly expanding. Cell migration occurs both inward and outward as the tumor proliferates and invades adjacent tissues, often disregarding organ boundaries. The focus of our review is cancer associated fibroblast (CAF) cellular heterogeneity and plasticity and the acellular matrix components that accompany these cells. We explore how similarities and differences between healing wounds and tumor stroma continue to evolve as research progresses, shedding light on possible therapeutic targets that can result in innovative stromal-based treatments for cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deshka S Foster
- Hagey Laboratory for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, and.,Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - R Ellen Jones
- Hagey Laboratory for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, and
| | - Ryan C Ransom
- Hagey Laboratory for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, and
| | - Michael T Longaker
- Hagey Laboratory for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, and.,Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Jeffrey A Norton
- Hagey Laboratory for Pediatric Regenerative Medicine, Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, and.,Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
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23
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Targeting cancer stem cells and their niche: perspectives for future therapeutic targets and strategies. Semin Cancer Biol 2018; 53:139-155. [PMID: 30081228 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2018.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2018] [Revised: 07/30/2018] [Accepted: 08/02/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
A small subpopulation of cells within the bulk of tumors share features with somatic stem cells, in that, they are capable of self-renewal, they differentiate, and are highly resistant to conventional therapy. These cells have been referred to as cancer stem cells (CSCs). Recent reports support the central importance of a cancer stem cell-like niche that appears to help foster the generation and maintenance of CSCs. In response to signals provided by this microenvironment, CSCs express the tumorigenic characteristics that can drive tumor metastasis by the induction of epithelial-mesenchymal-transition (EMT) that in turn fosters the migration and recolonization of the cells as secondary tumors within metastatic niches. We summarize here recent advances in cancer stem cell research including the characterization of their genetic and epigenetic features, metabolic specialities, and crosstalk with aging-associated processes. Potential strategies for targeting CSCs, and their niche, by regulating CSCs plasticity, or therapeutic sensitivity is discussed. Finally, it is hoped that new strategies and related therapeutic approaches as outlined here may help prevent the formation of the metastatic niche, as well as counter tumor progression and metastatic growth.
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24
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Alkasalias T, Moyano-Galceran L, Arsenian-Henriksson M, Lehti K. Fibroblasts in the Tumor Microenvironment: Shield or Spear? Int J Mol Sci 2018; 19:ijms19051532. [PMID: 29883428 PMCID: PMC5983719 DOI: 10.3390/ijms19051532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 158] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2018] [Revised: 05/15/2018] [Accepted: 05/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Tumorigenesis is a complex process involving dynamic interactions between malignant cells and their surrounding stroma, including both the cellular and acellular components. Within the stroma, fibroblasts represent not only a predominant cell type, but also a major source of the acellular tissue microenvironment comprising the extracellular matrix (ECM) and soluble factors. Normal fibroblasts can exert diverse suppressive functions against cancer initiating and metastatic cells via direct cell-cell contact, paracrine signaling by soluble factors, and ECM integrity. The loss of such suppressive functions is an inherent step in tumor progression. A tumor cell-induced switch of normal fibroblasts into cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), in turn, triggers a range of pro-tumorigenic signals accompanied by distraction of the normal tissue architecture, thus creating an optimal niche for cancer cells to grow extensively. To further support tumor progression and metastasis, CAFs secrete factors such as ECM remodeling enzymes that further modify the tumor microenvironment in combination with the altered adhesive forces and cell-cell interactions. These paradoxical tumor suppressive and promoting actions of fibroblasts are the focus of this review, highlighting the heterogenic molecular properties of both normal and cancer-associated fibroblasts, as well as their main mechanisms of action, including the emerging impact on immunomodulation and different therapy responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Twana Alkasalias
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology (MTC), Karolinska Institutet, Biomedicum, Solnavägen 9, SE-17177 Stockholm, Sweden.
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Salahaddin University, Irbil 44002, Kurdistan-Iraq.
| | - Lidia Moyano-Galceran
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology (MTC), Karolinska Institutet, Biomedicum, Solnavägen 9, SE-17177 Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Marie Arsenian-Henriksson
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology (MTC), Karolinska Institutet, Biomedicum, Solnavägen 9, SE-17177 Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Kaisa Lehti
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology (MTC), Karolinska Institutet, Biomedicum, Solnavägen 9, SE-17177 Stockholm, Sweden.
- Research Programs Unit, Genome-Scale Biology and Medicum, University of Helsinki, and Helsinki University Hospital, P.O. Box 63, FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland.
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25
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Tang Y, He Y, Zhang P, Wang J, Fan C, Yang L, Xiong F, Zhang S, Gong Z, Nie S, Liao Q, Li X, Li X, Li Y, Li G, Zeng Z, Xiong W, Guo C. LncRNAs regulate the cytoskeleton and related Rho/ROCK signaling in cancer metastasis. Mol Cancer 2018; 17:77. [PMID: 29618386 PMCID: PMC5885413 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-018-0825-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2017] [Accepted: 03/20/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Some of the key steps in cancer metastasis are the migration and invasion of tumor cells; these processes require rearrangement of the cytoskeleton. Actin filaments, microtubules, and intermediate filaments involved in the formation of cytoskeletal structures, such as stress fibers and pseudopodia, promote the invasion and metastasis of tumor cells. Therefore, it is important to explore the mechanisms underlying cytoskeletal regulation. The ras homolog family (Rho) and Rho-associated coiled-coil containing protein serine/threonine kinase (ROCK) signaling pathway is involved in the regulation of the cytoskeleton. Moreover, long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have essential roles in tumor migration and guide gene regulation during cancer progression. LncRNAs can regulate the cytoskeleton directly or may influence the cytoskeleton via Rho/ROCK signaling during tumor migration. In this review, we focus on the regulatory association between lncRNAs and the cytoskeleton and discuss the pathways and mechanisms involved in the regulation of cancer metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanyan Tang
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Hunan Cancer Hospital and The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yi He
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Hunan Cancer Hospital and The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Ping Zhang
- The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,School of Electronics and Information Engineering, Hunan University of Science and Engineering, Yongzhou, Hunan, China
| | - Jinpeng Wang
- The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Chunmei Fan
- The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Liting Yang
- The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Fang Xiong
- Department of Cancer Biology, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Shanshan Zhang
- The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis of the Chinese Ministry of Health, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zhaojian Gong
- The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Shaolin Nie
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Hunan Cancer Hospital and The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Qianjin Liao
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Hunan Cancer Hospital and The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xiayu Li
- The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Hunan Key Laboratory of Nonresolving Inflammation and Cancer, Disease Genome Research Center, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xiaoling Li
- The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis of the Chinese Ministry of Health, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yong Li
- Department of Cancer Biology, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Guiyuan Li
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Hunan Cancer Hospital and The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis of the Chinese Ministry of Health, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zhaoyang Zeng
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Hunan Cancer Hospital and The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis of the Chinese Ministry of Health, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Wei Xiong
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Hunan Cancer Hospital and The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China. .,The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China. .,The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis of the Chinese Ministry of Health, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| | - Can Guo
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Hunan Cancer Hospital and The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China. .,The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China. .,The Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis of the Chinese Ministry of Health, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
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Chen ZL, Yang J, Shen YW, Li ST, Wang X, Lv M, Wang BY, Li P, Zhao W, Qiu RY, Liu Y, Liu PJ, Yang J. AmotP130 regulates Rho GTPase and decreases breast cancer cell mobility. J Cell Mol Med 2018; 22:2390-2403. [PMID: 29377471 PMCID: PMC5867092 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.13533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2017] [Accepted: 12/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Angiomotin (Amot) is a newly discovered, multifunctional protein that is involved in cell migration and angiogenesis. However, the role of its isoform, AmotP130, in the regulation of cytoskeleton and metastasis of breast cancer, is unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of AmotP130 in the reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton and the changes of morphology in breast cancer cells through the Rho pathway that influences the invasion and migration of cells. The results suggested that AmotP130 suppressed the invasion ability through remodelling the cytoskeleton of breast cancer cells, including the actin fibre organization and focal adhesion protein turnover. Global transcriptome changes in breast cancer cells following knockdown of AmotP130 identified pathways related with the cytoskeleton and cell motility that involved the Rho GTPase family. From database analyses, changes in the Rho GTPase family of proteins were identified as possible prognostic factors in patients with breast cancer. We have been suggested that AmotP130 suppressed the invasion ability through remodelling of the cytoskeleton of breast cancer cells, involving regulation of the Rho pathway. The cytoskeleton-related pathway components may provide novel, clinically therapeutic targets for breast cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhe-Ling Chen
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jiao Yang
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yan-Wei Shen
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Shu-Ting Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xin Wang
- Department of Oncology, Shangluo Central Hospital, Shangluo, Shaanxi, China
| | - Meng Lv
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Bi-Yuan Wang
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Pan Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Wen Zhao
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Rui-Yue Qiu
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Yu Liu
- Department of Biology & Biochemistry, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Pei-Jun Liu
- Center for Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xian Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jin Yang
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
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