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Wang K, Zhu S, Zhang Y, Wang Y, Bian Z, Lu Y, Shao Q, Jin X, Xu X, Mo R. Targeting the GTPase RAN by liposome delivery for tackling cancer stemness-emanated therapeutic resistance. J Control Release 2024; 375:589-600. [PMID: 39245420 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2024.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2024] [Revised: 09/02/2024] [Accepted: 09/03/2024] [Indexed: 09/10/2024]
Abstract
Cancer therapeutic resistance as a common hallmark of cancer is often responsible for treatment failure and poor patient survival. Cancer stem-like cells (CSCs) are one of the main contributors to therapeutic resistance, cancer relapse and metastasis. Through screening from our in-house library of natural products, we found polyphyllin II (PPII) as a potent anti-CSC compound for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). To enhance anti-CSC selectivity and improve druggability of PPII, we leverage the liposome-mediated delivery technique for increasing solubility of PPII, and more significantly, attaining broader therapeutic window. Liposomal PPII demonstrates its marked potency to inhibit tumor growth, post-surgical recurrence and metastasis compared to commercial liposomal chemotherapeutics in the mouse models of CSC-enriched TNBC tumor. We further identify PPII as an inhibitor of the Ras-related nuclear (RAN) protein whose upregulated expression is correlated with poor clinical outcomes. The direct binding of PPII to RAN reduces TNBC stemness, thereby suppressing tumor progression. Our work offers a significance from drug discovery to drug delivery benefiting from liposome technique for targeted treatment of high-stemness tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaili Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Sitong Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Yuqian Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Zhenqian Bian
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Yougong Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Quanlin Shao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Xiang Jin
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310032, China
| | - Xiaojun Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China; Department of Pharmacy, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Center for Innovative Traditional Chinese Medicine Target and New Drug Research, International Institutes of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Yiwu 322001, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Ran Mo
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Design and Optimization, Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China.
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2
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Datta N, Vp S, Parvathy K, A S S, Maliekal TT. ALDH1A1 as a marker for metastasis initiating cells: A mechanistic insight. Exp Cell Res 2024; 442:114213. [PMID: 39173941 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2024.114213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2024] [Revised: 08/12/2024] [Accepted: 08/14/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024]
Abstract
Since metastasis accounts for the majority of cancer morbidity and mortality, attempts are focused to block metastasis and metastasis initiating cellular programs. It is generally believed that hypoxia, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the dysregulated redox pathways regulate metastasis. Although induction of epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) can initiate cell motility to different sites other than the primary site, the initiation of a secondary tumor at a distant site depends on self-renewal property of cancer stem cell (CSC) property. That subset of metastatic cells possessing CSC property are referred to as metastasis initiating cells (MICs). Among the different cellular intermediates regulating metastasis in response to hypoxia by inducing EMT and self-renewal property, ALDH1A1 is a critical molecule, which can be used as a marker for MICs in a wide variety of malignancies. The cytosolic ALDHs can irreversibly convert retinal to retinoic acid (RA), which initiates RA signaling, important for self-renewal and EMT. The metastasis permissive tumor microenvironment increases the expression of ALDH1A1, primarily through HIF1α, and leads to metabolic reprograming through OXPHOS regulation. The ALDH1A1 expression and its high activity can reprogram the cancer cells with the transcriptional upregulation of several genes, involved in EMT through RA signaling to manifest hybrid EMT or Hybrid E/M phenotype, which is important for acquiring the characteristics of MICs. Thus, the review on this topic highlights the use of ALDH1A1 as a marker for MICs, and reporters for the marker can be effectively used to trace the population in mouse models, and to screen drugs that target MICs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nandini Datta
- Cancer Research, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (BRIC-RGCB), Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, 695014, India
| | - Snijesh Vp
- Division of Molecular Medicine, St. John's Research Institute, St John's National Academy of Health Sciences, Bangalore, 560034, India
| | - K Parvathy
- Cancer Research, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (BRIC-RGCB), Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, 695014, India
| | - Sneha A S
- Cancer Research, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (BRIC-RGCB), Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, 695014, India
| | - Tessy Thomas Maliekal
- Cancer Research, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (BRIC-RGCB), Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, 695014, India; Regional Centre for Biotechnology, Faridabad, Haryana 121001, India.
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Wei R, Liao X, Li J, Mu X, Ming Y, Peng Y. Novel humanized monoclonal antibodies against ROR1 for cancer therapy. Mol Cancer 2024; 23:165. [PMID: 39138527 PMCID: PMC11321157 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-024-02075-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Overexpression of receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor 1 (ROR1) contributes to cancer cell proliferation, survival and migration, playing crucial roles in tumor development. ROR1 has been proposed as a potential therapeutic target for cancer treatment. This study aimed to develop novel humanized ROR1 monoclonal antibodies and investigate their anti-tumor effects. METHODS ROR1 expression in tumor tissues and cell lines was analyzed by immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry. Antibodies from mouse hybridomas were humanized by the complementarity-determining region (CDR) grafting technique. Surface plasmon resonance spectroscopy, ELISA assay and flow cytometry were employed to characterize humanized antibodies. In vitro cellular assay and in vivo mouse experiment were conducted to comprehensively evaluate anti-tumor activity of these antibodies. RESULTS ROR1 exhibited dramatically higher expression in lung adenocarcinoma, liver cancer and breast cancer, and targeting ROR1 by short-hairpin RNAs significantly inhibited proliferation and migration of cancer cells. Two humanized ROR1 monoclonal antibodies were successfully developed, named h1B8 and h6D4, with high specificity and affinity to ROR1 protein. Moreover, these two antibodies effectively suppressed tumor growth in the lung cancer xenograft mouse model, c-Myc/Alb-cre liver cancer transgenic mouse model and MMTV-PyMT breast cancer mouse model. CONCLUSIONS Two humanized monoclonal antibodies targeting ROR1, h1B8 and h6D4, were successfully developed and exhibited remarkable anti-tumor activity in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Wei
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Xun Liao
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Jiao Li
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Xiaoyu Mu
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yue Ming
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yong Peng
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
- Frontiers Medical Center, Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Chengdu, 610212, China.
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Li L, Huang W, Ren X, Wang Z, Ding K, Zhao L, Zhang J. Unlocking the potential: advancements and future horizons in ROR1-targeted cancer therapies. SCIENCE CHINA. LIFE SCIENCES 2024:10.1007/s11427-024-2685-9. [PMID: 39145866 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-024-2685-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024]
Abstract
While receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor 1 (ROR1) is typically expressed at low levels or absent in normal tissues, its expression is notably elevated in various malignant tumors and conditions, including chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), breast cancer, ovarian cancer, melanoma, and lung adenocarcinoma. This distinctive feature positions ROR1 as an attractive target for tumor-specific treatments. Currently, several targeted drugs directed at ROR1 are undergoing clinical development, including monoclonal antibodies, antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), and chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy (CAR-T). Additionally, there are four small molecule inhibitors designed to bind to ROR1, presenting promising avenues for the development of PROTAC degraders targeting ROR1. This review offers updated insights into ROR1's structural and functional characteristics, embryonic development implications, cell survival signaling pathways, and evolutionary targeting strategies, all of which have the potential to advance the treatment of malignant tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China
| | - Weixue Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Research Center of Chemical Kinomics, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Xiaomei Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Research Center of Chemical Kinomics, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Zhen Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Research Center of Chemical Kinomics, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Ke Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Research Center of Chemical Kinomics, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Linxiang Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drugs Design & Discovery of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China.
| | - Jinwei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Research Center of Chemical Kinomics, Shanghai Institute of Organic Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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Luo D, Qiu X, Zheng Q, Ming Y, Pu W, Ai M, He J, Peng Y. Discovery of Novel Receptor Tyrosine Kinase-like Orphan Receptor 1 (ROR1) Inhibitors for Cancer Treatment. J Med Chem 2024; 67:10655-10686. [PMID: 38913699 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.4c00175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
Receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor 1 (ROR1) is an oncogenic membrane protein in several malignancies and has been considered an attractive target for the treatment of human cancers. In this study, structure-based virtual screening and structure optimization were conducted to identify novel ROR1 inhibitors. Based on hit compound 2, 45 novel ROR1 inhibitors were designed and synthesized, and the detailed structure-activity relationship was investigated. Representative compound 19h potently binds ROR1 with a KD value of 0.10 μM, exhibiting antitumor activity in lung cancer and breast cancer cell lines (IC50: 0.36-1.37 μM). Additionally, a mechanism investigation demonstrated that compound 19h induces the apoptosis of tumor cells. Importantly, compound 19h significantly suppressed tumor growth in a mouse model without obvious toxicity. Overall, this work identified compound 19h as a new ROR1 inhibitor, providing a novel lead compound for the treatment of lung cancer and breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongdong Luo
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Xingyang Qiu
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Qingquan Zheng
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Yue Ming
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Wencheng Pu
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Ming Ai
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Jianhua He
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Yong Peng
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
- Frontier Medical Center, Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Chengdu 610212, China
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Heiss J, Tavana H. Automated Analysis of Extracellular Matrix Invasion of Cancer Cells from Tumor Spheroids. ACS MEASUREMENT SCIENCE AU 2024; 4:260-266. [PMID: 38910858 PMCID: PMC11191720 DOI: 10.1021/acsmeasuresciau.3c00064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
The main cause of mortality among cancer patients is metastatic disease. Metastasis develops from cancer cells that invade the stromal tissue and intravasate the circulatory or lymphatic systems to eventually form new tumors in other organs. Blocking cancer cell invasion can potentially prevent or reduce the metastatic progression of cancers. Testing different chemical compounds against cell invasion in three-dimensional cultures is a common laboratory technique. The efficacy of the treatments is often evaluated from confocal microscopic images of the cells using image processing. However, the analysis approaches are often subject to variations and inconsistencies due to user decisions that must be made while processing each image. To overcome this limitation, we developed a fully automated method to quantify the invasion of cancer cells from a 3D tumor spheroid into the surrounding extracellular matrix. We demonstrated that this method resolves cell invasion from spheroids of different shapes and sizes and from cells that invade as a cluster or individually. We also showed that this approach can help quantify the dose-dependent anti-invasive effects of a commonly used chemotherapy drug. Our automated method significantly reduces the time and increases the consistency and accuracy of cancer cell invasion analysis in three-dimensional cultures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob Heiss
- Department of Biomedical
Engineering, The University of Akron, Akron, Ohio 44325, United States
| | - Hossein Tavana
- Department of Biomedical
Engineering, The University of Akron, Akron, Ohio 44325, United States
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7
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Wu ZL, Wang Y, Jia XY, Wang YG, Wang H. Receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor 1: A novel antitumor target in gastrointestinal cancers. World J Clin Oncol 2024; 15:603-613. [PMID: 38835843 PMCID: PMC11145958 DOI: 10.5306/wjco.v15.i5.603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor 1 (ROR1) is a member of the type I receptor tyrosine kinase family. ROR1 is pivotal in embryonic development and cancer, and serves as a biomarker and therapeutic target. It has soluble and membrane-bound subtypes, with the latter highly expressed in tumors. ROR1 is conserved throughout evolution and may play a role in the development of gastrointestinal cancer through multiple signaling pathways and molecular mechanisms. Studies suggest that overexpression of ROR1 may increase tumor invasiveness and metastasis. Additionally, ROR1 may regulate the cell cycle, stem cell characteristics, and interact with other signaling pathways to affect cancer progression. This review explores the structure, expression and role of ROR1 in the development of gastrointestinal cancers. It discusses current antitumor strategies, outlining challenges and prospects for treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng-Long Wu
- Xinyuan Institute of Medicine and Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018, Zhejiang Province, China
- Department of Oncology, Zhejiang Xiaoshan Hospital, Hangzhou 311201, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Xinyuan Institute of Medicine and Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Xiao-Yuan Jia
- Xinyuan Institute of Medicine and Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Yi-Gang Wang
- Xinyuan Institute of Medicine and Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou 310018, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Oncology, Zhejiang Xiaoshan Hospital, Hangzhou 311201, Zhejiang Province, China
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8
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Lamichhane A, Tavana H. Three-Dimensional Tumor Models to Study Cancer Stemness-Mediated Drug Resistance. Cell Mol Bioeng 2024; 17:107-119. [PMID: 38737455 PMCID: PMC11082110 DOI: 10.1007/s12195-024-00798-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Solid tumors often contain genetically different populations of cancer cells, stromal cells, various structural and soluble proteins, and other soluble signaling molecules. The American Cancer society estimated 1,958,310 new cancer cases and 609,820 cancer deaths in the United States in 2023. A major barrier against successful treatment of cancer patients is drug resistance. Gain of stem cell-like states by cancer cells under drug pressure or due to interactions with the tumor microenvironment is a major mechanism that renders therapies ineffective. Identifying approaches to target cancer stem cells is expected to improve treatment outcomes for patients. Most of our understanding of drug resistance and the role of cancer stemness is from monolayer cell cultures. Recent advances in cell culture technologies have enabled developing sophisticated three-dimensional tumor models that facilitate mechanistic studies of cancer drug resistance. This review summarizes the role of cancer stemness in drug resistance and highlights the various tumor models that are used to discover the underlying mechanisms and test potentially novel therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Astha Lamichhane
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Akron, Akron, OH 44325 USA
| | - Hossein Tavana
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Akron, Akron, OH 44325 USA
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9
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Shatsky RA, Batra-Sharma H, Helsten T, Schwab RB, Pittman EI, Pu M, Weihe E, Ghia EM, Rassenti LZ, Molinolo A, Cabrera B, Breitmeyer JB, Widhopf GF, Messer K, Jamieson C, Kipps TJ, Parker BA. A phase 1b study of zilovertamab in combination with paclitaxel for locally advanced/unresectable or metastatic Her2-negative breast cancer. Breast Cancer Res 2024; 26:32. [PMID: 38408999 PMCID: PMC10895766 DOI: 10.1186/s13058-024-01782-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Zilovertamab is a humanized monoclonal antibody targeting ROR1, an onco-embryonic antigen expressed by malignant cells of a variety of solid tumors, including breast cancer. A prior phase 1 study showed that zilovertamab was well tolerated and effective in inhibiting ROR1-signaling, which leads to activation of ERK1/2, NF-κB, and NRF2 target genes. This phase 1b study evaluated the safety and tolerability of zilovertamab with paclitaxel in patients with advanced breast cancer. PATIENTS AND METHODS Eligible patients had locally advanced, unresectable, or metastatic HER2- breast cancer with Eastern Cooperative Group performance status of 0-2 and without prior taxane therapy in the advanced setting. Study treatment included 600 mg of zilovertamab administered intravenously (IV) on Days 1 and 15 of Cycle 1 and then Day 1 of each 28-day cycle along with paclitaxel weekly at 80 mg/m2 IV. RESULTS Study patients had received a median of 4 prior therapies (endocrine therapy + chemotherapy) for locally advanced, unresectable, or metastatic disease. No patient discontinued therapy due to toxicity ascribed to zilovertamab. Adverse events were consistent with the known safety profile of paclitaxel. Of 16 patients, 6 (38%) had a partial response, and 6/16 (38%) patients had stable disease as best tumor response. CONCLUSION The combination of zilovertamab and paclitaxel was safe and well tolerated in heavily pre-treated advanced breast cancer patients. Further evaluation of ROR1 targeting in breast cancer patients with zilovertamab is warranted. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT02776917. Registered on ClinicalTrials.gov on 05/17/2016.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca A Shatsky
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, 3855 Health Sciences Drive Mail Code 0987, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, 92093, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Hemali Batra-Sharma
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, 3855 Health Sciences Drive Mail Code 0987, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, 92093, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Teresa Helsten
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, 3855 Health Sciences Drive Mail Code 0987, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, 92093, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Richard B Schwab
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, 3855 Health Sciences Drive Mail Code 0987, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, 92093, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Emily I Pittman
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, 3855 Health Sciences Drive Mail Code 0987, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Minya Pu
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, 3855 Health Sciences Drive Mail Code 0987, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Elizabeth Weihe
- Department of Radiology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Emanuela M Ghia
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, 3855 Health Sciences Drive Mail Code 0987, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, 92093, USA
- Center for Novel Therapeutics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Laura Z Rassenti
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, 3855 Health Sciences Drive Mail Code 0987, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, 92093, USA
- Center for Novel Therapeutics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Alfredo Molinolo
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, 3855 Health Sciences Drive Mail Code 0987, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Betty Cabrera
- University of California San Diego California Institute for Regenerative Medicine Alpha Clinic, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, USA
| | | | - George F Widhopf
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, USA
- Center for Novel Therapeutics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Karen Messer
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, 3855 Health Sciences Drive Mail Code 0987, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, 92093, USA
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Catriona Jamieson
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, 3855 Health Sciences Drive Mail Code 0987, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, 92093, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, USA
- University of California San Diego California Institute for Regenerative Medicine Alpha Clinic, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, USA
- Sanford Stem Cell Institute, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Thomas J Kipps
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, 3855 Health Sciences Drive Mail Code 0987, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, 92093, USA
- Center for Novel Therapeutics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Barbara A Parker
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, 3855 Health Sciences Drive Mail Code 0987, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, 92093, USA.
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, San Diego, CA, USA.
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10
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Islam SS, Al-Tweigeri T, Al-Harbi L, Ujjahan S, Al-Mozaini M, Tulbah A, Aboussekhra A. Long noncoding RNA DLEU2 and ROR1 pathway induces epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and cancer stem cells in breast cancer. Cell Death Discov 2024; 10:61. [PMID: 38296962 PMCID: PMC10830457 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-024-01829-3] [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: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) patient who receives chemotherapy for an extended length of time may experience profound repercussions in terms of metastases and clinical outcomes due to the involvement of the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) mechanism and enriched cancer stem cells (CSCs). BC cells that express high levels of lncRNA deleted in lymphocytic leukemia-2 (lncRNA DLEU2) and type I tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor ROR1 (ROR1) may play roles in the enhanced ability of the activation EMT and CSC induction. Here we find that lncRNA DLEU2 and ROR1 are specifically upregulated in tumor tissues compared to their normal counterparts in TCGA, PubMed GEO datasets, and samples from archived breast cancer tumor tissues. Following chemotherapy, lncRNA DLEU2 and ROR1 were enhanced in BC tumor cells, coupled with the expression of CSCs, EMT-related genes, and BMI1. Mechanistically, ROR1 and lncRNA DLEU2 overexpression led to enhanced tumor cell proliferation, inhibition of apoptosis, cell-cycle dysregulation, chemoresistance, as well as BC cell's abilities to invade, migrate, develop spheroids. These findings imply that the role of lncRNA DLEU2 and ROR1 in BC therapeutic failure is largely attributed to EMT, which is intricately linked to enriched CSCs. In conclusion, our findings indicate that a lncRNA DLEU2 and ROR1-based regulatory loop governs EMT and CSC self-renewal, implying that targeting this regulatory pathway may improve patients' responses to chemotherapy and survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syed S Islam
- Department of Molecular Oncology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
- School of Medicine, Al-Faisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Taher Al-Tweigeri
- Breast Cancer Unit, Oncology Centre, King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Layla Al-Harbi
- Department of Infection and Immunity, King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shafat Ujjahan
- Department of Medical Oncology and Radiotherapy, Park View Hospital, Chattagram, Bangladesh
| | - Maha Al-Mozaini
- Department of Infection and Immunity, King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Asma Tulbah
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdelilah Aboussekhra
- Department of Molecular Oncology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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11
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Guo Z, Han S. Targeting cancer stem cell plasticity in triple-negative breast cancer. EXPLORATION OF TARGETED ANTI-TUMOR THERAPY 2023; 4:1165-1181. [PMID: 38213533 PMCID: PMC10776602 DOI: 10.37349/etat.2023.00190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a highly aggressive breast cancer subtype with limited treatment options. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are thought to play a crucial role in TNBC progression and resistance to therapy. CSCs are a small subpopulation of cells within tumors that possess self-renewal and differentiation capabilities and are responsible for tumor initiation, maintenance, and metastasis. CSCs exhibit plasticity, allowing them to switch between states and adapt to changing microenvironments. Targeting CSC plasticity has emerged as a promising strategy for TNBC treatment. This review summarizes recent advances in understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying CSC plasticity in TNBC and discusses potential therapeutic approaches targeting CSC plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengwang Guo
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Integration of Chinese and Western Medicine, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing 100142, China
| | - Shuyan Han
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Department of Integration of Chinese and Western Medicine, Peking University Cancer Hospital & Institute, Beijing 100142, China
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12
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Tan XY, Li YT, Li HH, Ma LX, Zeng CM, Zhang TT, Huang TX, Zhao XD, Fu L. WNT2-SOX4 positive feedback loop promotes chemoresistance and tumorigenesis by inducing stem-cell like properties in gastric cancer. Oncogene 2023; 42:3062-3074. [PMID: 37634009 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-023-02816-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023]
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) is characterized by its vigorous chemoresistance to current therapies, which is attributed to the highly heterogeneous and immature phenotype of cancer stem cells (CSCs) during tumor initiation and progression. The secretory WNT2 ligand regulates multiple cancer pathways and has been demonstrated to be a potential therapeutic target for gastrointestinal tumors; however, its role involved in gastric CSCs (GCSCs) remains unclear. Here, we found that overexpression of WNT2 enhanced stemness properties to promote chemoresistance and tumorigenicity in GCSCs. Mechanistically, WNT2 was positively regulated by its transcription factor SOX4, and in turn, SOX4 was upregulated by the canonical WNT2/FZD8/β-catenin signaling pathway to form an auto-regulatory positive feedback loop, resulting in the maintenance of GCSCs self-renewal and tumorigenicity. Furthermore, simultaneous overexpression of both WNT2 and SOX4 was correlated with poor survival and reduced responsiveness to chemotherapy in clinical GC specimens. Blocking WNT2 using a specific monoclonal antibody significantly disrupted the WNT2-SOX4 positive feedback loop in GCSCs and enhanced the chemotherapeutic efficacy when synergized with the chemo-drugs 5-fluorouracil and oxaliplatin in a GCSC-derived mouse xenograft model. Overall, this study identified a novel WNT2-SOX4 positive feedback loop as a mechanism for GCSCs-induced chemo-drugs resistance and suggested that the WNT2-SOX4 axis may be a potential therapeutic target for gastric cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang-Yu Tan
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Regional Immunity and Diseases, Department of Pharmacology and International Cancer Center, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518055, Guangdong, China
| | - Yu-Ting Li
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Regional Immunity and Diseases, Department of Pharmacology and International Cancer Center, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518055, Guangdong, China
- Shenzhen University-Friedrich Schiller Universität Jena Joint PhD Program in Biomedical Sciences, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518055, Guangdong, China
| | - Hua-Hui Li
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Regional Immunity and Diseases, Department of Pharmacology and International Cancer Center, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518055, Guangdong, China
- Shenzhen University-Friedrich Schiller Universität Jena Joint PhD Program in Biomedical Sciences, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518055, Guangdong, China
| | - Li-Xiang Ma
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Regional Immunity and Diseases, Department of Pharmacology and International Cancer Center, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518055, Guangdong, China
| | - Chui-Mian Zeng
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, Guangdong, China
| | - Tian-Tian Zhang
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Regional Immunity and Diseases, Department of Pharmacology and International Cancer Center, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518055, Guangdong, China
| | - Tu-Xiong Huang
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Regional Immunity and Diseases, Department of Pharmacology and International Cancer Center, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518055, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiao-Di Zhao
- Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi, China
| | - Li Fu
- Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Regional Immunity and Diseases, Department of Pharmacology and International Cancer Center, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518055, Guangdong, China.
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13
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Wang Y, Zhang Y, Sun H, Chen J, Yang H, Zhong Z, Xiao X, Li Y, Tang Y, Lu H, Tang X, Zhang M, Wu W, Zhou S, Yang J. Antitumor activity of a ROR1 × CD3 bispecific antibody in non-small cell lung cancer. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 123:110686. [PMID: 37499397 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Over the last decade, immuno-oncologic drugs especially CD3-engaging bispecific antibodies (biAbs) are experiencing fast-paced evolution, but big challenges still exist in the clinical development of biAbs in solid tumors, especially non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In this study, we choose a ROR1 × CD3 biAb in scFv-Fc format, named R11 × v9 biAb, to investigate its tumor-inhibiting role in NSCLC. Notably, the ROR1-engaging arm binds both human and mouse ROR1. We found that R11 × v9 biAb specifically binds T cells and tumor cells simultaneously, and dose-dependent cytotoxicity was detected for various ROR1+ NSCLC cell lines. Further, R11 × v9 biAb mediated T-cell derived proinflammatory cytokine secretion, boosted granzyme B and perforin production from CD8+ T cells, and recruited more CD4+ T cells and CD8+ T cells into the tumor tissues. The antitumor activity of R11 × v9 biAb was confirmed in two xenograft mouse models of ROR1+ NSCLC. Importantly, no harmful side effects were observed in these in vivo studies, warranting further preclinical and clinical studies of R11 × v9 biAb in NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Yuxi Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Haoyi Sun
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Jilan Chen
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Hui Yang
- Department of Pathology, the First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming 650034, China
| | - Zhanqiong Zhong
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Xiaoqian Xiao
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Yanping Li
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Yibei Tang
- School of Medical and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Haolan Lu
- School of Medical and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Xinzhi Tang
- School of Medical and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Mengyang Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Wenjun Wu
- The Affiliated Wuxi People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi People's Hospital, Wuxi Medical Center, Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi 214023, China.
| | - Shiyi Zhou
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China.
| | - Jiahui Yang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China.
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14
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Irmer B, Efing J, Reitnauer LE, Angenendt A, Heinrichs S, Schubert A, Schulz M, Binder C, Tio J, Hansen U, Geyer C, Gerwing M, Bleckmann A, Menck K. Extracellular vesicle-associated tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptors ROR1 and ROR2 promote breast cancer progression. Cell Commun Signal 2023; 21:171. [PMID: 37430307 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01186-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Extracellular vesicles (EVs) harbor a plethora of different biomolecules, which they can transport across cells. In cancer, tumor-derived EVs thereby support the creation of a favorable tumor microenvironment. So far, EV uptake and cargo delivery into target cells have been regarded as the main mechanisms for the pro-tumoral function of EVs. To test this hypothesis, we investigated the fate of the oncogenic transmembrane Wnt tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor 1 and 2 (ROR1, ROR2) delivered via distinct EV subpopulations to breast cancer cells and aimed to unravel their impact on tumor progression. METHODS EVs were isolated by differential ultracentrifugation from cell culture supernatant as well as plasma samples from healthy individuals (n = 27) and breast cancer patients (n = 41). EVs were thoroughly characterized by electron microscopy, nanoparticle tracking analysis, immunoblot, and flow cytometry. ROR transfer to target cells was observed using microscopy-based assays and biodistribution experiments were conducted in syngeneic mice. EV impact on cancer cell migration and invasion was tested in functional assays. RESULTS We observed that the supernatant of ROR-overexpressing cells was sufficient for transferring the receptors to ROR-negative cells. Analyzing the secretome of the ROR-overexpressing cells, we detected a high enrichment of ROR1/2 on large and small EVs, but not on large oncosomes. Interestingly, the majority of ROR-positive EVs remained attached to the target cell surface after 24 h of stimulation and was quickly removed by treatment with trypsin. Nonetheless, ROR-positive EVs increased migration and invasion of breast cancer cells, even after chemically inhibiting EV uptake, in dependence of RhoA downstream signaling. In vivo, ROR-depleted EVs tended to distribute less into organs prone for the formation of breast cancer metastases. ROR-positive EVs were also significantly elevated in the plasma of breast cancer patients and allowed to separate them from healthy controls. CONCLUSIONS The oncogenic Wnt receptors ROR1/2 are transferred via EVs to the surface of ROR-negative cancer cells, in which they induce an aggressive phenotype supporting tumor progression. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barnabas Irmer
- University Hospital Münster, Dept. of Medicine A, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1 D3, 48149, Münster, Germany
- West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Janes Efing
- University Hospital Münster, Dept. of Medicine A, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1 D3, 48149, Münster, Germany
- West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Lea Elisabeth Reitnauer
- University Hospital Münster, Dept. of Medicine A, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1 D3, 48149, Münster, Germany
- West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Allegra Angenendt
- University Hospital Münster, Dept. of Medicine A, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1 D3, 48149, Münster, Germany
- West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Saskia Heinrichs
- University Hospital Münster, Dept. of Medicine A, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1 D3, 48149, Münster, Germany
- West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Antonia Schubert
- Division Signaling and Functional Genomics, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
- Dept. of Medical Oncology, University Hospital Heidelberg, National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Matthias Schulz
- Dept. of Hematology/Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Claudia Binder
- Dept. of Hematology/Medical Oncology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Joke Tio
- Dept. of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Uwe Hansen
- Institute for Musculoskeletal Medicine, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | | | - Mirjam Gerwing
- Clinic for Radiology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Annalen Bleckmann
- University Hospital Münster, Dept. of Medicine A, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1 D3, 48149, Münster, Germany
- West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Kerstin Menck
- University Hospital Münster, Dept. of Medicine A, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1 D3, 48149, Münster, Germany.
- West German Cancer Center, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany.
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15
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Lučić I, Kurtović M, Mlinarić M, Piteša N, Čipak Gašparović A, Sabol M, Milković L. Deciphering Common Traits of Breast and Ovarian Cancer Stem Cells and Possible Therapeutic Approaches. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10683. [PMID: 37445860 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241310683] [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: 05/06/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) and ovarian cancer (OC) are among the most common and deadly cancers affecting women worldwide. Both are complex diseases with marked heterogeneity. Despite the induction of screening programs that increase the frequency of earlier diagnosis of BC, at a stage when the cancer is more likely to respond to therapy, which does not exist for OC, more than 50% of both cancers are diagnosed at an advanced stage. Initial therapy can put the cancer into remission. However, recurrences occur frequently in both BC and OC, which are highly cancer-subtype dependent. Therapy resistance is mainly attributed to a rare subpopulation of cells, named cancer stem cells (CSC) or tumor-initiating cells, as they are capable of self-renewal, tumor initiation, and regrowth of tumor bulk. In this review, we will discuss the distinctive markers and signaling pathways that characterize CSC, their interactions with the tumor microenvironment, and the strategies they employ to evade immune surveillance. Our focus will be on identifying the common features of breast cancer stem cells (BCSC) and ovarian cancer stem cells (OCSC) and suggesting potential therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Lučić
- Laboratory for Oxidative Stress, Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Matea Kurtović
- Laboratory for Hereditary Cancer, Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Monika Mlinarić
- Laboratory for Oxidative Stress, Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Nikolina Piteša
- Laboratory for Hereditary Cancer, Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ana Čipak Gašparović
- Laboratory for Oxidative Stress, Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Maja Sabol
- Laboratory for Hereditary Cancer, Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Lidija Milković
- Laboratory for Oxidative Stress, Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
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16
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Huang W, Tang H, Liu Y, Li W, Shimu AS, Li B, Zhu C. ROR1/STAT3 positive feedback loop facilitates cartilage degeneration in Osteoarthritis through activation of NF-κB signaling pathway. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 121:110433. [PMID: 37343369 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110433] [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: 02/12/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic joint disorder with a serious impact on society. The main pathological change in OA is articular cartilage degeneration, which is directly associated with imbalance of anabolic and catabolic activities in chondrocytes. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the expression and biological effects of ROR1 in OA cartilage and determine whether knockdown of ROR1 attenuates cartilage degeneration. METHODS ROR1 expression in OA clinical specimens was evaluated by western blotting and immunohistochemistry. The effects of ROR1 on anabolic and catabolic activities were evaluated in Wnt5a-treated human primary chondrocytes by western blotting, immunofluorescence, and luciferase assay. The effects of ROR1 knockdown on cartilage degeneration in a surgical OA mouse model were examined by X-ray imaging and Safranin O-Fast Green histological staining. RESULTS ROR1 was considerably upregulated in cartilage tissues of OA patients. ROR1 knockdown alleviated the activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway and reversed the suppression of collagen II and aggrecan by Wnt5a, as well as upregulation of ADAMTS-5 and MMP-13 in chondrocytes. In addition, ROR1 knockdown significantly reduced Wnt5a-induced STAT3 nuclear translocation. STAT3 binding to the ROR1 promoter indicated a positive feedback loop between ROR1 and STAT3. ROR1 knockdown was confirmed to dramatically alleviate cartilage degradation in the DMM induced-OA mouse model. CONCLUSION Increased expression of ROR1 in OA cartilage tissues leads to a positive feedback loop with STAT3, which activates the NF-κB signaling pathway, resulting in an imbalance between chondrocyte anabolism and catabolism. These results indicate a potential new therapeutic target for the treatment of OA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Huang
- Department of Orthopaedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Hao Tang
- Department of Orthopedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Department of Orthopaedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - WenWei Li
- Department of Orthopaedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Ajmeri Sultana Shimu
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - BoFeng Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.
| | - Chen Zhu
- Department of Orthopaedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.
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17
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Parker BA, Shatsky RA, Schwab RB, Wallace AM, Wolf DM, Hirst GL, Brown-Swigart L, Esserman LJ, van 't Veer LJ, Ghia EM, Yau C, Kipps TJ. Association of baseline ROR1 and ROR2 gene expression with clinical outcomes in the I-SPY2 neoadjuvant breast cancer trial. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2023; 199:281-291. [PMID: 37029329 PMCID: PMC10175386 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-023-06914-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE ROR1 and ROR2 are Type 1 tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptors for Wnt5a that are associated with breast cancer progression. Experimental agents targeting ROR1 and ROR2 are in clinical trials. This study evaluated whether expression levels of ROR1 or ROR2 correlated with one another or with clinical outcomes. METHODS We interrogated the clinical significance of high-level gene expression of ROR1 and/or ROR2 in the annotated transcriptome dataset from 989 patients with high-risk early breast cancer enrolled in one of nine completed/graduated/experimental and control arms in the neoadjuvant I-SPY2 clinical trial (NCT01042379). RESULTS High ROR1 or high ROR2 was associated with breast cancer subtypes. High ROR1 was more prevalent among hormone receptor-negative and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative (HR-HER2-) tumors and high ROR2 was less prevalent in this subtype. Although not associated with pathologic complete response, high ROR1 or high ROR2 each was associated with event-free survival (EFS) in distinct subtypes. High ROR1 associated with a worse EFS in HR + HER2- patients with high post-treatment residual cancer burden (RCB-II/III) (HR 1.41, 95% CI = 1.11-1.80) but not in patients with minimal post-treatment disease (RCB-0/I) (HR 1.85, 95% CI = 0.74-4.61). High ROR2 associated with an increased risk of relapse in patients with HER2 + disease and RCB-0/I (HR 3.46, 95% CI = 1.33-9.020) but not RCB-II/III (HR 1.07, 95% CI = 0.69-1.64). CONCLUSION High ROR1 or high ROR2 distinctly identified subsets of breast cancer patients with adverse outcomes. Further studies are warranted to determine if high ROR1 or high ROR2 may identify high-risk populations for studies of targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara A Parker
- Department of Medicine and Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA.
| | - Rebecca A Shatsky
- Department of Medicine and Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Richard B Schwab
- Department of Medicine and Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
| | - Anne M Wallace
- Department of Surgery and Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Denise M Wolf
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Gillian L Hirst
- Department of Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Lamorna Brown-Swigart
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Laura J Esserman
- Department of Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Laura J van 't Veer
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Emanuela M Ghia
- Department of Medicine and Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Center for Novel Therapeutics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Christina Yau
- Department of Surgery, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Thomas J Kipps
- Department of Medicine and Moores Cancer Center, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Center for Novel Therapeutics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
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18
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Yamazaki M, Hino S, Usuki S, Miyazaki Y, Oda T, Nakao M, Ito T, Yamagata K. YAP/BRD4-controlled ROR1 promotes tumor-initiating cells and hyperproliferation in pancreatic cancer. EMBO J 2023:e112614. [PMID: 37096681 DOI: 10.15252/embj.2022112614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor-initiating cells are major drivers of chemoresistance and attractive targets for cancer therapy, however, their identity in human pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and the key molecules underlying their traits remain poorly understood. Here, we show that a cellular subpopulation with partial epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-like signature marked by high expression of receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor 1 (ROR1) is the origin of heterogeneous tumor cells in PDAC. We demonstrate that ROR1 depletion suppresses tumor growth, recurrence after chemotherapy, and metastasis. Mechanistically, ROR1 induces the expression of Aurora kinase B (AURKB) by activating E2F through c-Myc to enhance PDAC proliferation. Furthermore, epigenomic analyses reveal that ROR1 is transcriptionally dependent on YAP/BRD4 binding at the enhancer region, and targeting this pathway reduces ROR1 expression and prevents PDAC growth. Collectively, our findings reveal a critical role for ROR1high cells as tumor-initiating cells and the functional importance of ROR1 in PDAC progression, thereby highlighting its therapeutic targetability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masaya Yamazaki
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Shinjiro Hino
- Department of Medical Cell Biology, Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Shingo Usuki
- Liaison Laboratory Research Promotion Center, Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Miyazaki
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Oda
- Department of Gastrointestinal and Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgery, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Mitsuyoshi Nakao
- Department of Medical Cell Biology, Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Takaaki Ito
- Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Health Science, Kumamoto Health Science University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Kazuya Yamagata
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
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19
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Quezada MJ, Lopez-Bergami P. The signaling pathways activated by ROR1 in cancer. Cell Signal 2023; 104:110588. [PMID: 36621728 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2023.110588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The receptor tyrosine kinase orphan receptor 1 (ROR1) is a receptor for WNT5A and related Wnt proteins, that play an important role during embryonic development by regulating cell migration, cell polarity, neural patterning, and organogenesis. ROR1 exerts these functions by transducing signals from the Wnt secreted glycoproteins to the intracellular Wnt/PCP and Wnt/Ca++ pathways. Investigations in adult human cells, particularly cancer cells, have demonstrated that besides these two pathways, the WNT5A/ROR1 axis can activate a number of signaling pathways, including the PI3K/AKT, MAPK, NF-κB, STAT3, and Hippo pathways. Moreover, ROR1 is aberrantly expressed in cancer and was associated with tumor progression and poor survival by promoting cell proliferation, survival, invasion, epithelial to mesenchymal transition, and metastasis. Consequently, numerous therapeutic tools to target ROR1 are currently being evaluated in cancer patients. In this review, we will provide a detailed description of the signaling pathways regulated by ROR1 in cancer and their impact in tumor progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Josefina Quezada
- Centro de Estudios Biomédicos, Básicos, Aplicados y Desarrollo (CEBBAD), Universidad Maimónides, Buenos Aires 1405, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires 1425, Argentina
| | - Pablo Lopez-Bergami
- Centro de Estudios Biomédicos, Básicos, Aplicados y Desarrollo (CEBBAD), Universidad Maimónides, Buenos Aires 1405, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires 1425, Argentina.
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20
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Konopelski Snavely SE, Srinivasan S, Dreyer CA, Tan J, Carraway KL, Ho HYH. Non-canonical WNT5A-ROR signaling: New perspectives on an ancient developmental pathway. Curr Top Dev Biol 2023; 153:195-227. [PMID: 36967195 PMCID: PMC11042798 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ctdb.2023.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2023]
Abstract
Deciphering non-canonical WNT signaling has proven to be both fascinating and challenging. Discovered almost 30 years ago, non-canonical WNT ligands signal independently of the transcriptional co-activator β-catenin to regulate a wide range of morphogenetic processes during development. The molecular and cellular mechanisms that underlie non-canonical WNT function, however, remain nebulous. Recent results from various model systems have converged to define a core non-canonical WNT pathway consisting of the prototypic non-canonical WNT ligand, WNT5A, the receptor tyrosine kinase ROR, the seven transmembrane receptor Frizzled and the cytoplasmic scaffold protein Dishevelled. Importantly, mutations in each of these signaling components cause Robinow syndrome, a congenital disorder characterized by profound tissue morphogenetic abnormalities. Moreover, dysregulation of the pathway has also been linked to cancer metastasis. As new knowledge concerning the WNT5A-ROR pathway continues to grow, modeling these mutations will likely provide crucial insights into both the physiological regulation of the pathway and the etiology of WNT5A-ROR-driven diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara E Konopelski Snavely
- Department of Cell Biology and Human Anatomy, University of California Davis, School of Medicine, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Srisathya Srinivasan
- Department of Cell Biology and Human Anatomy, University of California Davis, School of Medicine, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Courtney A Dreyer
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California Davis, School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, United States
| | - Jia Tan
- Department of Cell Biology and Human Anatomy, University of California Davis, School of Medicine, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Kermit L Carraway
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California Davis, School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, United States
| | - Hsin-Yi Henry Ho
- Department of Cell Biology and Human Anatomy, University of California Davis, School of Medicine, Davis, CA, United States.
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21
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Shen S, Li T, Fan J, Shao Q, Dong H, Xu X, Mo R. Lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticle with cell-distinct drug release for treatment of stemness-derived resistant tumor. Acta Pharm Sin B 2023; 13:1262-1273. [PMID: 36970217 PMCID: PMC10031347 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2022.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Drug resistance presents one of the major causes for the failure of cancer chemotherapy. Cancer stem-like cells (CSCs), a population of self-renewal cells with high tumorigenicity and innate chemoresistance, can survive conventional chemotherapy and generate increased resistance. Here, we develop a lipid-polymer hybrid nanoparticle for co-delivery and cell-distinct release of the differentiation-inducing agent, all-trans retinoic acid and the chemotherapeutic drug, doxorubicin to overcome the CSC-associated chemoresistance. The hybrid nanoparticles achieve differential release of the combined drugs in the CSCs and bulk tumor cells by responding to their specific intracellular signal variation. In the hypoxic CSCs, ATRA is released to induce differentiation of the CSCs, and in the differentiating CSCs with decreased chemoresistance, DOX is released upon elevation of reactive oxygen species to cause subsequent cell death. In the bulk tumor cells, the drugs are released synchronously upon the hypoxic and oxidative conditions to exert potent anticancer effect. This cell-distinct drug release enhances the synergistic therapeutic efficacy of ATRA and DOX with different anticancer mechanism. We show that treatment with the hybrid nanoparticle efficiently inhibit the tumor growth and metastasis of the CSC-enriched triple negative breast cancer in the mouse models.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jinyi Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Quanlin Shao
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - He Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Xiao Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Ran Mo
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Drug Discovery for Metabolic Diseases, Center of Advanced Pharmaceuticals and Biomaterials, School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
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22
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Wu T, Zhu D, Wu X, Zhang N, Zhang Q. Taxol‑resistant breast cancer cell‑derived exosome‑delivered miR‑187‑5p regulates the growth of breast cancer cells via ABCD2 and Wnt/β‑catenin signaling. Oncol Lett 2023; 25:119. [PMID: 36844629 PMCID: PMC9950341 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2023.13705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Acquired resistance to Taxol (TAX) contributes to clinical treatment failure and significantly reduces the survival rate of patients. The present study aimed to explore the effects of exosomal microRNA (miR)-187-5p on TAX resistance in breast cancer cells and its underlying mechanisms. Exosomes were isolated from MCF-7 and TAX-resistant MCF-7/TAX cells, and the miR-187-5p and miR-106a-3p levels of the cells and exosomes were determined using reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Next, MCF-7 cells were treated with TAX for 48 h and either treated with exosomes or transfected with miR-187-5p mimics. Cell viability, apoptosis, migration, invasion and colony formation were determined using Cell Counting Kit-8, flow cytometry, Transwell and colony formation assays, and the expression levels of associated genes and proteins were detected by RT-qPCR and western blotting, respectively. Finally, a dual-luciferase reporter gene assay was performed to confirm the target of miR-187-5p. The results showed that miR-187-5p expression levels increased significantly in TAX-resistant MCF-7 cells and exosomes compared with normal MCF-7 cells and exosomes (P<0.05). However, miR-106a-3p was not detected in the cells or exosomes. Therefore, miR-187-5p was selected for subsequent experiments. A series of cell assays showed that TAX inhibited the viability, migration, invasion and colony formation of MCF-7 cells and promoted their apoptosis; however, these changes were reversed by resistant cell exosomes and miR-187-5p mimics. Additionally, TAX significantly upregulated ABCD2 and downregulated β-catenin, c-Myc and cyclin D1, whereas resistant exosomes and miR-187-5p mimics reversed the TAX-induced changes in expression. Finally, ABCD2 was confirmed to directly bind with miR-187-5p. It may be concluded that TAX-resistant cell-derived exosomes delivering miR-187-5p may affect the growth of TAX-induced breast cancer cells by targeting ABCD2 and c-Myc/Wnt/β-catenin signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tieli Wu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150000, P.R. China
| | - Dandan Zhu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Daqing Oilfield General Hospital, Daqing, Heilongjiang 163000, P.R. China
| | - Xingyi Wu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Qiqihar First Factory Hospital, Qiqihar, Heilongjiang 161000, P.R. China
| | - Ningning Zhang
- School of Basic Medicine, Qiqihar Medical University, Qiqihar, Heilongjiang 161000, P.R. China
| | - Qingyuan Zhang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Harbin Medical University Cancer Hospital, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150000, P.R. China
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23
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Luo J, Zou H, Guo Y, Tong T, Chen Y, Xiao Y, Pan Y, Li P. The oncogenic roles and clinical implications of YAP/TAZ in breast cancer. Br J Cancer 2023; 128:1611-1624. [PMID: 36759723 PMCID: PMC10133323 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-023-02182-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is the most commonly diagnosed form of cancer and a leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women worldwide. Yes-associated protein (YAP) and transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) are homologous transcriptional coactivators and downstream effectors of Hippo signalling. YAP/TAZ activation has been revealed to play essential roles in multiple events of BC development, including tumour initiation, progression, metastasis, drug resistance and stemness regulations. In this review, we will first give an overview of YAP/TAZ-mediated oncogenesis in BC, and then systematically summarise the oncogenic roles of YAP/TAZ in various BC subtypes, BC stem cells (BCSCs) and tumour microenvironments (TMEs). Based on these findings, we will further discuss the clinical implications of YAP/TAZ-based targeted therapies in BC and the potential future direction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Luo
- Scientific Research Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 628 Zhenyuan Road, 518107, Shenzhen, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Hailin Zou
- Scientific Research Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 628 Zhenyuan Road, 518107, Shenzhen, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yibo Guo
- Scientific Research Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 628 Zhenyuan Road, 518107, Shenzhen, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Tongyu Tong
- Scientific Research Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 628 Zhenyuan Road, 518107, Shenzhen, Guangdong, People's Republic of China.,Department of Urology, Pelvic Floor Disorders Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 628 Zhenyuan Road, 518107, Shenzhen, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yun Chen
- Scientific Research Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 628 Zhenyuan Road, 518107, Shenzhen, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yunjun Xiao
- Scientific Research Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 628 Zhenyuan Road, 518107, Shenzhen, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
| | - Yihang Pan
- Scientific Research Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 628 Zhenyuan Road, 518107, Shenzhen, Guangdong, People's Republic of China. .,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer Research, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 628 Zhenyuan Road, 518107, Shenzhen, Guangdong, People's Republic of China.
| | - Peng Li
- Scientific Research Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 628 Zhenyuan Road, 518107, Shenzhen, Guangdong, People's Republic of China. .,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Digestive Cancer Research, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, No. 628 Zhenyuan Road, 518107, Shenzhen, Guangdong, People's Republic of China.
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24
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Osorio-Rodríguez DA, Camacho BA, Ramírez-Segura C. Anti-ROR1 CAR-T cells: Architecture and performance. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1121020. [PMID: 36873868 PMCID: PMC9981679 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1121020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor 1 (ROR1) is a membrane receptor that plays a key role in development. It is highly expressed during the embryonic stage and relatively low in some normal adult tissues. Malignancies such as leukemia, lymphoma, and some solid tumors overexpress ROR1, making it a promising target for cancer treatment. Moreover, immunotherapy with autologous T-cells engineered to express a ROR1-specific chimeric antigen receptor (ROR1 CAR-T cells) has emerged as a personalized therapeutic option for patients with tumor recurrence after conventional treatments. However, tumor cell heterogeneity and tumor microenvironment (TME) hinder successful clinical outcomes. This review briefly describes the biological functions of ROR1 and its relevance as a tumor therapeutic target, as well as the architecture, activity, evaluation, and safety of some ROR1 CAR-T cells used in basic research and clinical trials. Finally, the feasibility of applying the ROR1 CAR-T cell strategy in combination with therapies targeting other tumor antigens or with inhibitors that prevent tumor antigenic escape is also discussed. Clinical trial registration https://clinicaltrials.gov/, identifier NCT02706392.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Andrés Osorio-Rodríguez
- Laboratorio de Investigación en Ingeniería Celular y Molecular, Instituto Distrital de Ciencia, Biotecnología e Innovación en Salud (IDCBIS), Bogotá, Colombia
| | | | - César Ramírez-Segura
- Laboratorio de Investigación en Ingeniería Celular y Molecular, Instituto Distrital de Ciencia, Biotecnología e Innovación en Salud (IDCBIS), Bogotá, Colombia.,Instituto Distrital de Ciencia, Biotecnología e Innovación en Salud (IDCBIS), Bogotá, Colombia
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25
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Zhang L, Chen W, Liu S, Chen C. Targeting Breast Cancer Stem Cells. Int J Biol Sci 2023; 19:552-570. [PMID: 36632469 PMCID: PMC9830502 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.76187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The potential roles of breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) in tumor initiation and recurrence have been recognized for many decades. Due to their strong capacity for self-renewal and differentiation, BCSCs are the major reasons for poor clinical outcomes and low therapeutic response. Several hypotheses on the origin of cancer stem cells have been proposed, including critical gene mutations in stem cells, dedifferentiation of somatic cells, and cell plasticity remodeling by epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and the tumor microenvironment. Moreover, the tumor microenvironment, including cellular components and cytokines, modulates the self-renewal and therapeutic resistance of BCSCs. Small molecules, antibodies, and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells targeting BCSCs have been developed, and their applications in combination with conventional therapies are undergoing clinical trials. In this review, we focus on the features of BCSCs, emphasize the major factors and tumor environment that regulate the stemness of BCSCs, and discuss potential BCSC-targeting therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Zhang
- Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center & Institutes of Biomedical Sciences; State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering; Cancer Institutes; Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai; The Shanghai paracrine Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology; The International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Ministry of Science and Technology; Shanghai Medical College; Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Wenmin Chen
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of Chinese Academy of Sciences and Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Kunming 650201, China.,Kunming College of Life Sciences, the University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, China
| | - Suling Liu
- Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center & Institutes of Biomedical Sciences; State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering; Cancer Institutes; Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer in Shanghai; The Shanghai paracrine Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Radiation Oncology; The International Co-laboratory of Medical Epigenetics and Metabolism, Ministry of Science and Technology; Shanghai Medical College; Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.,Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China.,✉ Corresponding authors: Ceshi Chen, E-mail: or Suling Liu, E-mail:
| | - Ceshi Chen
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of Chinese Academy of Sciences and Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Kunming 650201, China.,Academy of Biomedical Engineering, Kunming Medical University, Kunming 650500, China.,The Third Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, Kunming 650118, China.,✉ Corresponding authors: Ceshi Chen, E-mail: or Suling Liu, E-mail:
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26
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Tumor-promoting aftermath post-chemotherapy: A focus on breast cancer. Life Sci 2022; 310:121125. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.121125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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27
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Manni W, Min W. Signaling pathways in the regulation of cancer stem cells and associated targeted therapy. MedComm (Beijing) 2022; 3:e176. [PMID: 36226253 PMCID: PMC9534377 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are defined as a subpopulation of malignant tumor cells with selective capacities for tumor initiation, self-renewal, metastasis, and unlimited growth into bulks, which are believed as a major cause of progressive tumor phenotypes, including recurrence, metastasis, and treatment failure. A number of signaling pathways are involved in the maintenance of stem cell properties and survival of CSCs, including well-established intrinsic pathways, such as the Notch, Wnt, and Hedgehog signaling, and extrinsic pathways, such as the vascular microenvironment and tumor-associated immune cells. There is also intricate crosstalk between these signal cascades and other oncogenic pathways. Thus, targeting pathway molecules that regulate CSCs provides a new option for the treatment of therapy-resistant or -refractory tumors. These treatments include small molecule inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies that target key signaling in CSCs, as well as CSC-directed immunotherapies that harness the immune systems to target CSCs. This review aims to provide an overview of the regulating networks and their immune interactions involved in CSC development. We also address the update on the development of CSC-directed therapeutics, with a special focus on those with application approval or under clinical evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wang Manni
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center, West China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduP. R. China
| | - Wu Min
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine and Health SciencesUniversity of North DakotaGrand ForksNorth DakotaUSA
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28
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John M, Ford CE. Pan-Tissue and -Cancer Analysis of ROR1 and ROR2 Transcript Variants Identify Novel Functional Significance for an Alternative Splice Variant of ROR1. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10102559. [PMID: 36289823 PMCID: PMC9599429 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10102559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
ROR1/2 are putative druggable targets increasing in significance in translational oncology. Expression of ROR1/2 mRNA and transcript variants has not been systematically examined thus far. ROR1/2 transcript variant sequences, signal peptides for cell surface localisation, and mRNA and transcript variant expression were examined in 34 transcriptomic datasets including 33 cancer types and 54 non-diseased human tissues. ROR1/2 have four and eight transcript variants, respectively. ROR1/2 mRNA and transcript variant expression was detected in various non-diseased tissues. Our analysis identifies predominant expression of ROR1 transcript variant ENST00000545203, which lacks a signal peptide for cell surface localisation, rather than the predicted principal variant ENST00000371079. ENST00000375708 is the predominantly expressed transcript variant of ROR2. ROR1/2 expression in healthy human tissues should be carefully considered for safety assessment of targeted therapy. Studies exploring the function and significance of the predominantly expressed ROR1 transcript variant ENST00000545203 are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miya John
- Correspondence: (M.J.); (C.E.F.); Tel.: +61-2-9385-1451 (C.E.F.)
| | - Caroline E. Ford
- Correspondence: (M.J.); (C.E.F.); Tel.: +61-2-9385-1451 (C.E.F.)
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29
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Katoh M, Katoh M. WNT signaling and cancer stemness. Essays Biochem 2022; 66:319-331. [PMID: 35837811 PMCID: PMC9484141 DOI: 10.1042/ebc20220016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Cancer stemness, defined as the self-renewal and tumor-initiation potential of cancer stem cells (CSCs), is a cancer biology property featuring activation of CSC signaling networks. Canonical WNT signaling through Frizzled and LRP5/6 receptors is transmitted to the β-catenin-TCF/LEF-dependent transcription machinery to up-regulate MYC, CCND1, LGR5, SNAI1, IFNG, CCL28, CD274 (PD-L1) and other target genes. Canonical WNT signaling causes expansion of rapidly cycling CSCs and modulates both immune surveillance and immune tolerance. In contrast, noncanonical WNT signaling through Frizzled or the ROR1/2 receptors is transmitted to phospholipase C, Rac1 and RhoA to control transcriptional outputs mediated by NFAT, AP-1 and YAP-TEAD, respectively. Noncanonical WNT signaling supports maintenance of slowly cycling, quiescent or dormant CSCs and promotes epithelial-mesenchymal transition via crosstalk with TGFβ (transforming growth factor-β) signaling cascades, while the TGFβ signaling network induces immune evasion. The WNT signaling network orchestrates the functions of cancer-associated fibroblasts, endothelial cells and immune cells in the tumor microenvironment and fine-tunes stemness in human cancers, such as breast, colorectal, gastric and lung cancers. Here, WNT-related cancer stemness features, including proliferation/dormancy plasticity, epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity and immune-landscape plasticity, will be discussed. Porcupine inhibitors, β-catenin protein-protein interaction inhibitors, β-catenin proteolysis targeting chimeras, ROR1 inhibitors and ROR1-targeted biologics are investigational drugs targeting WNT signaling cascades. Mechanisms of cancer plasticity regulated by the WNT signaling network are promising targets for therapeutic intervention; however, further understanding of context-dependent reprogramming trajectories might be necessary to optimize the clinical benefits of WNT-targeted monotherapy and applied combination therapy for patients with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Masaru Katoh
- M & M Precision Medicine
- Department of Omics Network, National Cancer Center, Japan
- Department of Clinical Genomics, National Cancer Center, Japan
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30
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Jubelin C, Muñoz-Garcia J, Griscom L, Cochonneau D, Ollivier E, Heymann MF, Vallette FM, Oliver L, Heymann D. Three-dimensional in vitro culture models in oncology research. Cell Biosci 2022; 12:155. [PMID: 36089610 PMCID: PMC9465969 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-022-00887-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 43.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractCancer is a multifactorial disease that is responsible for 10 million deaths per year. The intra- and inter-heterogeneity of malignant tumors make it difficult to develop single targeted approaches. Similarly, their diversity requires various models to investigate the mechanisms involved in cancer initiation, progression, drug resistance and recurrence. Of the in vitro cell-based models, monolayer adherent (also known as 2D culture) cell cultures have been used for the longest time. However, it appears that they are often less appropriate than the three-dimensional (3D) cell culture approach for mimicking the biological behavior of tumor cells, in particular the mechanisms leading to therapeutic escape and drug resistance. Multicellular tumor spheroids are widely used to study cancers in 3D, and can be generated by a multiplicity of techniques, such as liquid-based and scaffold-based 3D cultures, microfluidics and bioprinting. Organoids are more complex 3D models than multicellular tumor spheroids because they are generated from stem cells isolated from patients and are considered as powerful tools to reproduce the disease development in vitro. The present review provides an overview of the various 3D culture models that have been set up to study cancer development and drug response. The advantages of 3D models compared to 2D cell cultures, the limitations, and the fields of application of these models and their techniques of production are also discussed.
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31
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Theranostic silk sericin/SPION nanoparticles for targeted delivery of ROR1 siRNA: Synthesis, characterization, diagnosis and anticancer effect on triple-negative breast cancer. Int J Biol Macromol 2022; 221:604-612. [PMID: 36084874 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2022.09.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) has the worst prognosis among all breast cancer subtypes. The lack of proper treatments prompted scientists to find a practical targeted therapy to treat this type of tumor. Based on previous studies, tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor (ROR1) is overexpressed in TNBC cells. Here, we designed a system consisting of superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) decorated with silk sericin (SS NPs) for the targeted delivery of ROR1 siRNA, a gene silencer to knockdown the expression of human ROR1 gene. NPs exhibited spherical shape of about 193 nm with acceptable properties both in vitro and in vivo. The apoptosis study showed significant death of MDA-MB-231 cells after 24 h treatment with the prepared NPs. The real-time PCR study also demonstrated an almost complete shutdown of ROR1 expression. Guided by magnetic field, enhanced accumulation of NPs was observed in breast tumors induced by 4T1 cells in BALB/c mice. Histological evaluation of the tumor exhibited necrosis 14 days post-treatment with the siRNA-loaded NPs; whereas, the untreated tumor was proliferating. Also, the tumor growth rate was significantly decreased after treatment with siRNA-loaded NPs in vivo. In conclusion, the prepared delivery system could be considered as a potential therapeutic strategy for treating TNBC.
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Regulation of the Cancer Stem Phenotype by Long Non-Coding RNAs. Cells 2022; 11:cells11152352. [PMID: 35954194 PMCID: PMC9367355 DOI: 10.3390/cells11152352] [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] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells are a cell population within malignant tumors that are characterized by the ability to self-renew, the presence of specific molecules that define their identity, the ability to form malignant tumors in vivo, resistance to drugs, and the ability to invade and migrate to other regions of the body. These characteristics are regulated by various molecules, such as lncRNAs, which are transcripts that generally do not code for proteins but regulate multiple biological processes through various mechanisms of action. LncRNAs, such as HOTAIR, H19, LncTCF7, LUCAT1, MALAT1, LINC00511, and FMR1-AS1, have been described as key regulators of stemness in cancer, allowing cancer cells to acquire this phenotype. It has been proposed that cancer stem cells are clinically responsible for the high recurrence rates after treatment and the high frequency of metastasis in malignant tumors, so understanding the mechanisms that regulate the stem phenotype could have an impact on the improvement of cancer treatments.
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Developing ROR1 Targeting CAR-T Cells against Solid Tumors in Preclinical Studies. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14153618. [PMID: 35892876 PMCID: PMC9331269 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14153618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-modified T-cells (CAR-T) have demonstrated promising clinical benefits against B-cell malignancies. Yet, its application for solid tumors is still facing challenges. Unlike haematological cancers, solid tumors often lack good targets, which are ideally expressed on the tumor cells, but not by the normal healthy cells. Fortunately, receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor 1 (ROR1) is among a few good cancer targets that is aberrantly expressed on various tumors but has a low expression on normal tissue, suggesting it as a good candidate for CAR-T therapy. Here, we constructed two ROR1 CARs with the same antigen recognition domain that was derived from Zilovertamab but differing in hinge regions. Both CARs target ROR1+ cancer cells specifically, but CAR with a shorter IgG4 hinge exhibits a higher surface expression and better in vitro functionality. We further tested the ROR1 CAR-T in three human solid tumor xenografted mouse models. Our ROR1 CAR-T cells controlled the solid tumor growth without causing any severe toxicity. Our results demonstrated that ROR1 CAR-T derived from Zilovertamab is efficacious and safe to suppress ROR1+ solid tumors in vitro and in vivo, providing a promising therapeutic option for future clinical application.
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Oncofetal proteins and cancer stem cells. Essays Biochem 2022; 66:423-433. [PMID: 35670043 DOI: 10.1042/ebc20220025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are considered as a small population of cells with stem-like properties within the tumor bulk, and are largely responsible for tumor recurrence, metastasis, and therapy resistance. CSCs share critical features with embryonic stem cells (ESCs). The pluripotent transcription factors (TFs) and developmental signaling pathways of ESCs are invariably hijacked by CSCs termed ‘oncofetal drivers’ in many cancers, which are rarely detectable in adult tissues. The unique expression pattern makes oncofetal proteins ideal therapeutic targets in cancer treatment. Therefore, elucidation of oncofetal drivers in cancers is critical for the development of effective CSCs-directed therapy. In this review, we summarize the common pluripotent TFs such as OCT4, SOX2, NANOG, KLF4, MYC, SALL4, and FOXM1, as well as the development signaling including Wnt/β-catenin, Hedgehog (Hh), Hippo, Notch, and TGF-β pathways of ESCs and CSCs. We also describe the newly identified oncofetal proteins that drive the self-renewal, plasticity, and therapy-resistance of CSCs. Finally, we explore how the clinical implementation of targeting oncofetal drivers, including small-molecule inhibitors, vaccines, antibodies, and CAR-T (chimeric antigen receptor T cell) can facilitate the development of CSCs-directed therapy.
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Ruiu R, Di Lorenzo A, Cavallo F, Conti L. Are Cancer Stem Cells a Suitable Target for Breast Cancer Immunotherapy? Front Oncol 2022; 12:877384. [PMID: 35530300 PMCID: PMC9069673 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.877384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
There is substantial evidence to suggest that complete tumor eradication relies on the effective elimination of cancer stem cells (CSCs). CSCs have been widely described as mediators of resistance to conventional therapies, including chemo- and radiotherapy, as well as of tumor metastasization and relapse in different tumor types, including breast cancer. However, the resistant phenotype of CSCs makes their targeting a tough task, and immunotherapy may therefore be an interesting option. Nevertheless, although immunotherapeutic approaches to cancer treatment have generated great enthusiasm due to recent success in clinics, breast cancer treatment mostly relies on standard approaches. In this context, we review the existing literature on the immunological properties of breast CSC and immunotherapeutic approaches to them. We will thus attempt to clarify whether there is room for the immunotargeting of breast CSCs in the current landscape of breast cancer therapies. Finally, we will provide our opinion on the CSC-targeting immunotherapeutic strategies that could prospectively be attempted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Federica Cavallo
- Molecular Biotechnology Center, Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
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Endo M, Kamizaki K, Minami Y. The Ror-Family Receptors in Development, Tissue Regeneration and Age-Related Disease. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:891763. [PMID: 35493090 PMCID: PMC9043558 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.891763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The Ror-family proteins, Ror1 and Ror2, act as receptors or co-receptors for Wnt5a and its related Wnt proteins to activate non-canonical Wnt signaling. Ror1 and/or Ror2-mediated signaling plays essential roles in regulating cell polarity, migration, proliferation and differentiation during developmental morphogenesis, tissue-/organo-genesis and regeneration of adult tissues following injury. Ror1 and Ror2 are expressed abundantly in developing tissues in an overlapping, yet distinct manner, and their expression in adult tissues is restricted to specific cell types such as tissue stem/progenitor cells. Expression levels of Ror1 and/or Ror2 in the adult tissues are increased following injury, thereby promoting regeneration or repair of these injured tissues. On the other hand, disruption of Wnt5a-Ror2 signaling is implicated in senescence of tissue stem/progenitor cells that is related to the impaired regeneration capacity of aged tissues. In fact, Ror1 and Ror2 are implicated in age-related diseases, including tissue fibrosis, atherosclerosis (or arteriosclerosis), neurodegenerative diseases, and cancers. In these diseases, enhanced and/or sustained (chronic) expression of Ror1 and/or Ror2 is observed, and they might contribute to the progression of these diseases through Wnt5a-dependent and -independent manners. In this article, we overview recent advances in our understanding of the roles of Ror1 and Ror2-mediated signaling in the development, tissue regeneration and age-related diseases, and discuss their potential to be therapeutic targets for chronic inflammatory diseases and cancers.
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The Anti-ROR1 Monoclonal Antibody Zilovertamab Inhibits the Proliferation of Ovarian and Endometrial Cancer Cells. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14040837. [PMID: 35456672 PMCID: PMC9033071 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14040837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The non-canonical Wnt signalling receptor ROR1 is aberrantly expressed in numerous cancers, including ovarian and endometrial cancer. We previously reported that silencing ROR1 could inhibit the proliferation and metastatic potential of ovarian and endometrial cancer cells in vitro. Zilovertamab is an ROR1-targeting humanised monoclonal antibody, with demonstrated safety and efficacy in clinical trials of several ROR1-related malignancies. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential of zilovertamab alone, or in combination with commonly utilised gynaecological cancer therapies (cisplatin, paclitaxel and the PARP inhibitor—Olaparib) on high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC), including models of platinum resistance and homologous recombination deficiency (CaOV3, CaOV3CisR, PEO1 and PEO4) and endometrial cancer (EC) cell lines (Ishikawa and KLE). The effect of zilovertamab (at 25 µg/mL or 50 µg/mL) +/− agents was investigated using the IncuCyte S3 Live Cell imaging system. Zilovertamab alone inhibited the proliferation of HGSOC and EC cells in vitro, including in models of platinum resistance and homologous recombination deficiency. In general, the addition of commonly used chemotherapies to a fixed dose of zilovertamab did not enhance the observed anti-proliferative activity. This study supports the potential of zilovertamab, or other ROR1-targeting therapies, for treating women with HGSOC and EC.
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Wnt antagonist as therapeutic targets in ovarian cancer. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2022; 145:106191. [PMID: 35272015 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2022.106191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 02/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is a fatal malignancy in women with a low survival rate that demands new therapeutic paradigms. Cancer cells acquire various exclusive alterations to proliferate, invade, metastasize, and escape cell death, acting independently of growth-inducing or growth-inhibiting signals. The nature of cellular signaling in tumorigenesis is interwoven. Wnt signaling is an evolutionarily conserved signaling cascade that has been shown to regulate ovarian cancer pathogenesis. The molecular mechanism of Wnt signaling underlying the development of ovarian cancer, drug resistance, and relapse is not completely understood. Extracellularly secreted Wnt signaling inhibitors are crucial regulators of ovarian cancer tumorigenesis and malignant properties of cancer stem cells. Wnt inhibitors arbitrated modifications affecting Wnt pathway proteins on the cell membranes, in the cytoplasm, and in the nucleus have been shown to span essential contributions in the initiation, progression, and chemoresistance of ovarian cancer. Although many extrinsic inhibitors developed targeting the downstream components of the Wnt signaling pathway, investigating the molecular mechanisms of endogenous secreted inhibitors might substantiate prognostic or therapeutic biomarkers development. Given the importance of Wnt signaling in ovarian cancer, more systematic studies combined with clinical studies are requisite to probe the precise mechanistic interactions of Wnt antagonists in ovarian cancer. This review outlines the latest progress on the Wnt antagonists and ovarian cancer-specific regulators such as micro-RNAs, small molecules, and drugs regulating these Wnt antagonists in ovarian tumourigenesis.
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Wang SY, Hu QC, Wu T, Xia J, Tao XA, Cheng B. Abnormal lipid synthesis as a therapeutic target for cancer stem cells. World J Stem Cells 2022; 14:146-162. [PMID: 35432735 PMCID: PMC8963380 DOI: 10.4252/wjsc.v14.i2.146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) comprise a subpopulation of cancer cells with stem cell properties, which exhibit the characteristics of high tumorigenicity, self-renewal, and tumor initiation and are associated with the occurrence, metastasis, therapy resistance, and relapse of cancer. Compared with differentiated cells, CSCs have unique metabolic characteristics, and metabolic reprogramming contributes to the self-renewal and maintenance of stem cells. It has been reported that CSCs are highly dependent on lipid metabolism to maintain stemness and satisfy the requirements of biosynthesis and energy metabolism. In this review, we demonstrate that lipid anabolism alterations promote the survival of CSCs, including de novo lipogenesis, lipid desaturation, and cholesterol synthesis. In addition, we also emphasize the molecular mechanism underlying the relationship between lipid synthesis and stem cell survival, the signal trans-duction pathways involved, and the application prospect of lipid synthesis reprogramming in CSC therapy. It is demonstrated that the dependence on lipid synthesis makes targeting of lipid synthesis metabolism a promising therapeutic strategy for eliminating CSCs. Targeting key molecules in lipid synthesis will play an important role in anti-CSC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si-Yu Wang
- Department of Oral Medicine, Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510000, Guangdong Province, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510000, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Qin-Chao Hu
- Department of Oral Medicine, Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510000, Guangdong Province, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510000, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Tong Wu
- Department of Oral Medicine, Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510000, Guangdong Province, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510000, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Juan Xia
- Department of Oral Medicine, Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510000, Guangdong Province, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510000, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xiao-An Tao
- Department of Oral Medicine, Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510000, Guangdong Province, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510000, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Bin Cheng
- Department of Oral Medicine, Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510000, Guangdong Province, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510000, Guangdong Province, China
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Effective targeting of breast cancer stem cells by combined inhibition of Sam68 and Rad51. Oncogene 2022; 41:2196-2209. [PMID: 35217791 PMCID: PMC8993694 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-022-02239-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Revised: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is the second cause of cancer-related deceases in the worldwide female population. Despite the successful treatment advances, 25% of BC develops resistance to current therapeutic regimens, thereby remaining a major hurdle for patient management. Current therapies, targeting the molecular events underpinning the adaptive resistance, still require effort to improve BC treatment. Using BC sphere cells (BCSphCs) as a model, here we showed that BC stem-like cells express high levels of Myc, which requires the presence of the multifunctional DNA/RNA binding protein Sam68 for the DNA-damage repair. Analysis of a cohort of BC patients displayed that Sam68 is an independent negative factor correlated with the progression of the disease. Genetic inhibition of Sam68 caused a defect in PARP-induced PAR chain synthesis upon DNA-damaging insults, resulting in cell death of TNBC cells. In contrast, BC stem-like cells were able to survive due to an upregulation of Rad51. Importantly, the inhibition of Rad51 showed synthetic lethal effect with the silencing of Sam68, hampering the cell viability of patient-derived BCSphCs and stabilizing the growth of tumor xenografts, including those TNBC carrying BRCA mutation. Moreover, the analysis of Myc, Sam68 and Rad51 expression demarcated a signature of a poor outcome in a large cohort of BC patients. Thus, our findings suggest the importance of targeting Sam68-PARP1 axis and Rad51 as potential therapeutic candidates to counteract the expansion of BC cells with an aggressive phenotype.
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Koushyar S, Meniel VS, Phesse TJ, Pearson HB. Exploring the Wnt Pathway as a Therapeutic Target for Prostate Cancer. Biomolecules 2022; 12:309. [PMID: 35204808 PMCID: PMC8869457 DOI: 10.3390/biom12020309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Aberrant activation of the Wnt pathway is emerging as a frequent event during prostate cancer that can facilitate tumor formation, progression, and therapeutic resistance. Recent discoveries indicate that targeting the Wnt pathway to treat prostate cancer may be efficacious. However, the functional consequence of activating the Wnt pathway during the different stages of prostate cancer progression remains unclear. Preclinical work investigating the efficacy of targeting Wnt signaling for the treatment of prostate cancer, both in primary and metastatic lesions, and improving our molecular understanding of treatment responses is crucial to identifying effective treatment strategies and biomarkers that help guide treatment decisions and improve patient care. In this review, we outline the type of genetic alterations that lead to activated Wnt signaling in prostate cancer, highlight the range of laboratory models used to study the role of Wnt genetic drivers in prostate cancer, and discuss new mechanistic insights into how the Wnt cascade facilitates prostate cancer growth, metastasis, and drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Koushyar
- The European Cancer Stem Cell Research Institute, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Hadyn Ellis Building, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK; (S.K.); (V.S.M.)
- School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Computing, Kingston University, Penrhyn Road, Kingston Upon Thames KT1 2EE, UK
| | - Valerie S. Meniel
- The European Cancer Stem Cell Research Institute, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Hadyn Ellis Building, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK; (S.K.); (V.S.M.)
| | - Toby J. Phesse
- The European Cancer Stem Cell Research Institute, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Hadyn Ellis Building, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK; (S.K.); (V.S.M.)
- The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne 3000, Australia
| | - Helen B. Pearson
- The European Cancer Stem Cell Research Institute, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Hadyn Ellis Building, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK; (S.K.); (V.S.M.)
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Liu M, Shi Y, Hu Q, Qin Y, Ji S, Liu W, Zhuo Q, Fan G, Ye Z, Song C, Yu X, Xu X, Xu W. SETD8 induces stemness and epithelial-mesenchymal transition of pancreatic cancer cells by regulating ROR1 expression. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2021; 53:1614-1624. [PMID: 34599596 DOI: 10.1093/abbs/gmab140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) is one of the most deadly diseases, and its incidence is increasing year by year. The methyltransferase SETD8 has been demonstrated to play an important role in tumor cell proliferation and metastasis. However, little is known about whether SETD8 could affect the invasion and metastasis of PC and the mechanism underlying the regulation. Based on our previous report, here, we further found that SETD8 could promote the invasion and migration of PC cells by inducing the expression of receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor 1 (ROR1). ROR1 was predominantly upregulated in PC tissues and was correlated with lymph node metastasis and worse prognosis. Mechanistically, SETD8 mediated ROR1 activity and regulated PC cells invasion and migration, although promoting the expression of stemness and epithelial-mesenchymal transition-related molecules. This promotion effect disappeared when the catalytically inactive mutant SETD8 was overexpressed, which could be counteracted by the SETD8-specific methyltransferase inhibitor UNC0379. Collectively, our results demonstrate that SETD8 may be a novel prognostic factor and a therapeutic target of PC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengqi Liu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yihua Shi
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Qiangsheng Hu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yi Qin
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Shunrong Ji
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Wensheng Liu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Qifeng Zhuo
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Guixiong Fan
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Zeng Ye
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Changfeng Song
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Xianjun Yu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Xiaowu Xu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Wenyan Xu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai 200032, China
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Zhao CC, Zhang CG, Sun X, Guo Q, Liu J, Liu Y, Hao YN, Feng G, Yang L, Liu H, Liu J. Paclitaxel-based supramolecular hydrogel loaded with mifepristone for the inhibition of breast cancer metastasis. Cancer Sci 2021; 113:733-743. [PMID: 34859546 PMCID: PMC8819302 DOI: 10.1111/cas.15230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer death among women and almost all of the breast cancer-caused mortality is related to metastasis. It has been reported that glucocorticoid facilitates the metastasis of breast cancer in mice, and mifepristone can antagonize the effect of glucocorticoid. Paclitaxel is one of the important drugs in the treatment of breast cancer. Mifepristone combined with paclitaxel could be an effective strategy for inhibiting breast cancer metastasis. However, their inherent defects, in terms of short blood circulation half-life and lack of tumor targeting, not only limit their effectiveness but also cause adverse reactions. Therefore, our aim is to explore a novel protocol against breast cancer metastasis, further optimize its therapeutic efficacy by a nanodelivery system, and explore its mechanism. Herein, a paclitaxel-conjugated and mifepristone-loaded hydrogel (PM-nano) was prepared by self-assembly. Its characterizations were studied. The antimetastatic effect was evaluated in vitro and in vivo and its mechanism was also explored by western blot assay. The resultant PM-nano was developed with favorable water solubility and good biocompatibility. Moreover, PM-nano displayed increased cell uptake properties and stimulated drug release in the tumor micro-acidic environment. The PM-nano was more effective in inhibiting the proliferation and metastasis of breast cancer than other groups in vitro and in vivo. The PM-nano might inhibit metastasis through glucocorticoid receptor/receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor 1 and MMPs. Taken together, PM-nano showed superior antimetastatic effects against breast cancer and excellent biocompatibility in vitro and in vivo, providing a new option for limiting metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cui-Cui Zhao
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin Medical University, Ministry of Education, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Chuan-Gui Zhang
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin Medical University, Ministry of Education, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Xuan Sun
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin Medical University, Ministry of Education, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Qingxiang Guo
- Key Laboratory of Radiopharmacokinetics for Innovative Drugs, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, and Institute of Radiation Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, China
| | - Jinjian Liu
- Key Laboratory of Radiopharmacokinetics for Innovative Drugs, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, and Institute of Radiation Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, China
| | - Yan Liu
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin Medical University, Ministry of Education, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Ya-Nan Hao
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin Medical University, Ministry of Education, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Guowei Feng
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin Medical University, Ministry of Education, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Lijun Yang
- Key Laboratory of Radiopharmacokinetics for Innovative Drugs, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, and Institute of Radiation Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, China
| | - Hong Liu
- Tianjin's Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin, Key Laboratory of Breast Cancer Prevention and Therapy, Tianjin Medical University, Ministry of Education, National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Jianfeng Liu
- Key Laboratory of Radiopharmacokinetics for Innovative Drugs, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, and Institute of Radiation Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Tianjin, China
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Analysis of Adjuvant Chemotherapy on Pathological Remission of Breast Cancer. COMPUTATIONAL AND MATHEMATICAL METHODS IN MEDICINE 2021; 2021:5440154. [PMID: 34819989 PMCID: PMC8608491 DOI: 10.1155/2021/5440154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2021] [Revised: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
With the continuous development of the concept of diagnosis and treatment, the current industry's treatment model has developed into a multidisciplinary comprehensive treatment. That is, in view of the pathological characteristics and clinical stages of breast cancer, corresponding methods such as surgery, chemotherapy, endocrine therapy, radiotherapy, and biological targeted therapy are adopted to provide comprehensive treatment of patients with multiple disciplines. This paper combines experimental research to research and analyze the degree of pathological remission of breast cancer by adjuvant chemotherapy and combines investigation and analysis and group trials to study and explore the effect of adjuvant chemotherapy. Moreover, this paper fully considers the patient's response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy and compares the changes in tumor cell abundance before and after chemotherapy to observe the response of the patient's primary tumor to chemotherapy at a microscopic level. Therefore, this study has made a relatively objective and accurate evaluation of the chemotherapy efficacy of tumor tissues, which can provide a reference for subsequent related research.
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45
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Rizvi A, Merlin MA, Shah GM. Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibition in cancer: Potential impact in cancer stem cells and therapeutic implications. Eur J Pharmacol 2021; 911:174546. [PMID: 34600907 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2021.174546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Inhibitors of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) are used in mono- or combination therapies for several malignancies. They are also used as maintenance therapy for some cancers after initial treatment. While the focus of this therapeutic approach is on the effect of PARP inhibition on the bulk tumour cells, in this review, we discuss their effect on the cancer stem cells. We identify key mediators and pathways in cancer stem cells whose response to PARP inhibition is not necessarily the same as the rest of the tumour cells. Since the cancer stem cells are known drivers of growth of tumours and their resistance to therapy, the clinical outcome might be drastically different than what is expected, if the effect of PARP inhibition on the cancer stem cells is not taken into account.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asim Rizvi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Life Sciences, The Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, India; CHU de Québec Université Laval Research Center, Neuroscience Division, Québec City, QC, G1V 4G2, Canada.
| | - Marine A Merlin
- CHU de Québec Université Laval Research Center, Neuroscience Division, Québec City, QC, G1V 4G2, Canada; Cancer Research Center, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Girish M Shah
- CHU de Québec Université Laval Research Center, Neuroscience Division, Québec City, QC, G1V 4G2, Canada; Cancer Research Center, Université Laval, Québec City, QC, G1V 0A6, Canada
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46
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Daikuzono H, Yamazaki M, Sato Y, Takahashi T, Yamagata K. Development of a DELFIA method to detect oncofetal antigen ROR1-positive exosomes. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2021; 578:170-176. [PMID: 34597914 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2021.08.054] [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: 07/20/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor 1 (ROR1) is highly expressed in a wide variety of hematological and solid cancers, but is low or absent in adult tissues. Here, we show that ROR1 is released with exosomes from ROR1-positive cancer cells. We also developed a simple dissociation-enhanced lanthanide fluorescence immunoassay (DELFIA) to detect cancer-derived ROR1-positive exosomes, which are captured by two anti-ROR1 antibodies and detected by the fluorescence of free chelating europium. This new DELFIA method can detect cancer-derived ROR1-positive exosomes in the cell supernatant and serum with a wide range and rapidly compared with the conventional Western blot assay. This method may be useful as a companion diagnostics for ROR1-positive cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hina Daikuzono
- Department of Cancer Biology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, 860-8556, Japan
| | - Masaya Yamazaki
- Department of Cancer Biology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, 860-8556, Japan; Department of Medical Biochemistry, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, 860-8556, Japan.
| | - Yoshifumi Sato
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, 860-8556, Japan
| | | | - Kazuya Yamagata
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, 860-8556, Japan
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47
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Chen X, Fan Y, Sun J, Zhang Z, Xin Y, Li K, Tang K, Du P, Liu Y, Wang G, Yang M, Tan Y. Nanoparticle-mediated specific elimination of soft cancer stem cells by targeting low cell stiffness. Acta Biomater 2021; 135:493-505. [PMID: 34492369 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2021.08.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Revised: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
As the driving force of tumor progression, cancer stem cells (CSCs) hold much lower cellular stiffness than bulk tumor cells across many cancer types. However, it remains unclear whether low cell stiffness can be harnessed in nanoparticle-based therapeutics for CSC targeting. We report that breast CSCs exhibit much lower stiffness but considerably higher uptake of nitrogen-doped graphene quantum dots (N-GQDs) than bulk tumor cells. Softening/stiffening cells enhances/suppresses nanoparticle uptake through activating/inhibiting clathrin- and caveolae-mediated endocytosis, suggesting that low cell stiffness mediates the elevated uptake in soft CSCs that may lead to the specific elimination. Further, soft CSCs enhance drug release, cellular retention, and nuclear accumulation of drug-loaded N-GQDs by reducing intracellular pH and exocytosis. Remarkably, drug-loaded N-GQDs specifically eliminate soft CSCs both in vitro and in vivo, inhibit tumor but not animal growth, and reduce the tumorigenicity of xenograft cells. Our findings unveil a new mechanism by which low cellular stiffness can be harnessed in nanoparticle-based strategies for specific CSC elimination, opening a new paradigm of cancer mechanomedicine. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Low cell stiffness is associated with high malignancy of tumor cells and thus serves as a mechanical hallmark of CSCs. However, it remains unclear whether cellular stiffness can be exploited for specific targeting of soft CSCs. This work reports that soft CSCs exhibit high N-GQD uptake compared to stiff tumor cells, which is regulated by cellular stiffness. Further, soft CSCs have enhanced drug release, cellular retention, and nuclear accumulation of drug-loaded N-GQDs, which enable the specific elimination of malignant CSCs both in vitro and in vivo with minimal side effect. In summary, our study demonstrates that CSC's low stiffness can be harnessed as a mechanical target for specific eradication, which provides a new paradigm of cancer mechanomedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Chen
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518053, China; Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Yadi Fan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Jinghua Sun
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Zhipeng Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Ying Xin
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518053, China; Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Keming Li
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518053, China; Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Kai Tang
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518053, China; Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Pengyu Du
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518053, China; Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Yiyao Liu
- Department of Biophysics, School of Life Science and Technology, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan 518053, China
| | - Guixue Wang
- Key Laboratory for Biorheological Science and Technology of Ministry of Education, State and Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Vascular Implants, Bioengineering College of Chongqing University, Chongqing 400030, China
| | - Mo Yang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China.
| | - Youhua Tan
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518053, China; Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China.
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Jiang VC, Liu Y, Jordan A, McIntosh J, Li Y, Che Y, Jessen KA, Lannutti BJ, Wang M. The antibody drug conjugate VLS-101 targeting ROR1 is effective in CAR T-resistant mantle cell lymphoma. J Hematol Oncol 2021; 14:132. [PMID: 34454548 PMCID: PMC8400406 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-021-01143-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a rare, aggressive and incurable subtype of non-Hodgkin’s B-cell lymphoma. The principal barrier is frequent clinical relapse to multiple lines of therapies, including new FDA-approved biologics and cell therapy. Brexucabtagene autoleucel, the first and only FDA approved chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T product in MCL, demonstrated unprecedented efficacy in overcoming resistance to Bruton’s tyrosine kinase inhibitors. However, relapses have inevitably occurred and once relapsed these patients display a very poor clinical outcome. Currently, there is no optional therapy specifically designed for these patients. The development of tailored and more efficacious therapies is therefore critical and represents a new medical need. We found that while the receptor tyrosine kinase-like orphan receptor 1 (ROR1) is expressed across most of the MCL cells, it is significantly elevated in CAR T-relapsed MCL tumors. To see whether this aberrant ROR1 expression contributed to CAR T resistance, we targeted ROR1 using VLS-101, a monomethyl auristatin E conjugated anti-ROR1 antibody. VLS-101 showed potent anti-MCL activity in vitro in ROR1-expressing MCL cell lines and ex vivo in primary patient samples. Importantly, VLS-101 safely induced tumor regression in PDX models resistant to CAR T-cell therapy, ibrutinib and/or venetoclax. These data advocate for targeting ROR1 as a viable approach in the treatment of ROR1-positive MCL tumors, especially those with failure to prior therapies. These data also provide strong evidence for future enrollment of post-CD19 CAR T-cell relapsed MCL patients in a first in-human phase 1b VLS-101 trial. The upcoming testing in a clinical setting will provide important insights on this new therapeutic development aiming to overcome the CAR T resistance via targeting ROR1, which is a rising unmet clinical need in MCL. ![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivian Changying Jiang
- Department of Lymphoma and Myeloma, The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, TX, USA
| | - Yang Liu
- Department of Lymphoma and Myeloma, The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, TX, USA
| | - Alexa Jordan
- Department of Lymphoma and Myeloma, The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, TX, USA
| | - Joseph McIntosh
- Department of Lymphoma and Myeloma, The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, TX, USA
| | - Yijing Li
- Department of Lymphoma and Myeloma, The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, TX, USA
| | - Yuxuan Che
- Department of Lymphoma and Myeloma, The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, TX, USA
| | | | | | - Michael Wang
- Department of Lymphoma and Myeloma, The University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd., Houston, TX, USA. .,Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
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Masoumi J, Jafarzadeh A, Abdolalizadeh J, Khan H, Philippe J, Mirzaei H, Mirzaei HR. Cancer stem cell-targeted chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapy: Challenges and prospects. Acta Pharm Sin B 2021; 11:1721-1739. [PMID: 34386318 PMCID: PMC8343118 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2020.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Revised: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells (CSCs) with their self-renewal ability are accepted as cells which initiate tumors. CSCs are regarded as interesting targets for novel anticancer therapeutic agents because of their association with tumor recurrence and resistance to conventional therapies, including radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells are engineered T cells which express an artificial receptor specific for tumor associated antigens (TAAs) by which they accurately target and kill cancer cells. In recent years, CAR-T cell therapy has shown more efficiency in cancer treatment, particularly regarding blood cancers. The expression of specific markers such as TAAs on CSCs in varied cancer types makes them as potent tools for CAR-T cell therapy. Here we review the CSC markers that have been previously targeted with CAR-T cells, as well as the CSC markers that may be used as possible targets for CAR-T cell therapy in the future. Furthermore, we will detail the most important obstacles against CAR-T cell therapy and suggest solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javad Masoumi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan 77181759111, Iran
| | - Abdollah Jafarzadeh
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman 7616913555, Iran
| | - Jalal Abdolalizadeh
- Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz 5165665811, Iran
| | - Haroon Khan
- Department of Pharmacy, Abdul Wali Khan University, Mardan 23200, Pakistan
| | - Jeandet Philippe
- Research Unit “Induced Resistance and Plant Bioprotection”, EA 4707, SFR Condorcet FR CNRS 3417, Faculty of Sciences University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne, BP 1039, 51687, Reims Cedex 2, France
| | - Hamed Mirzaei
- Research Center for Biochemistry and Nutrition in Metabolic Diseases, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan 8713781147, Iran
- Corresponding authors. Tel./fax: +98 31 55540022; Tel./fax: +98 21 66419536.
| | - Hamid Reza Mirzaei
- Department of Medical Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1417613151, Iran
- Corresponding authors. Tel./fax: +98 31 55540022; Tel./fax: +98 21 66419536.
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50
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Li M, Liu Y, Zhang W, Li C, Zhu Y, Wang S. Tadalafil Reverses the Effect of Three-Dimensional Cell Culture System on Stem Cell Features in A549 and SK-MES-1. DNA Cell Biol 2021; 40:869-880. [PMID: 34182826 DOI: 10.1089/dna.2020.6467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Non-small cell lung cancer is the most common type of lung cancer and is a frequent cause of death. In our research, A549 and SK-MES-1 were used to assess the effect of three-dimensional (3D) culture compared to that of two-dimensional (2D) monolayers in cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, response to chemotherapy, as well as the expression of epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) and cancer stem cell (CSC)-related markers. As tadalafil is a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor with the potential to target CSC maintenance in multiple cancer cell lines, we assessed its function in 3D culture and detected the downstream pathway genes. Methods: We compared the viability and proliferation capacity of A549 and SK-MES-1 cells in 2D and 3D culture by cell counting kit (CCK)-8, foci formation, and Live/Dead double stain (Operetta CLS High content screening). Migration, invasion, and other functions were also assessed. To elucidate the underlying mechanisms, the expression of EMT and CSC markers was analyzed by quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) and Western blot. Results: A549 and SK-MES-1 cells formed spheroids heterogeneous in shape and size. In our 3D spheroid systems, cells went through EMT, and were also capacitated with higher stemness and chemoresistance. Combination use of tadalafil and cisplatin showed higher chemotherapy efficiency in the 3D model, compared to that of the 2D cell culture. Conclusion: Our research aims at the notable differences between these two cellular systems in terms of cell functions, EMT, and stemness-associated gene expression and chemo-response. We showed that a commonly used drug, tadalafil, showed more pronounced inhibitory effects when cells were cultured in the 3D model. Since the 3D culture system could imitate the in vivo behavior of cancer cells within the tumor, we advocate that this system is superior to traditional 2D culture and should be used in the investigation of new therapeutic compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengqing Li
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Cancer Translational Research, Department of Oncology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Cancer Institute of Shenzhen-PKU-HKUST Medical Center, Shenzhen, P.R. China
| | - Yajie Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, P.R. China
| | - Weifei Zhang
- Department of Bone and Joint Surgery, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, P.R. China
| | - Chen Li
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Cancer Translational Research, Department of Oncology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Cancer Institute of Shenzhen-PKU-HKUST Medical Center, Shenzhen, P.R. China
| | - Yu Zhu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Cancer Translational Research, Department of Oncology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Cancer Institute of Shenzhen-PKU-HKUST Medical Center, Shenzhen, P.R. China
| | - Shubin Wang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Cancer Translational Research, Department of Oncology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Cancer Institute of Shenzhen-PKU-HKUST Medical Center, Shenzhen, P.R. China
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