1
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Bi Y, Jin J, Wang R, Liu Y, Zhu L, Wang J. Mechanical models and measurement methods of solid stress in tumors. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 108:363. [PMID: 38842572 PMCID: PMC11156757 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-024-13211-5] [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: 03/29/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
In addition to genetic mutations, biomechanical factors also affect the structures and functions of the tumors during tumor growth, including solid stress, interstitial fluid pressure, stiffness, and microarchitecture. Solid stress affects tumors by compressing cancer and stromal cells and deforming blood and lymphatic vessels which reduce supply of oxygen, nutrients and drug delivery, making resistant to treatment. Researchers simulate the stress by creating mechanical models both in vitro and in vivo. Cell models in vitro are divided into two dimensions (2D) and three dimensions (3D). 2D models are simple to operate but exert pressure on apical surface of the cells. 3D models, the multicellular tumor spheres, are more consistent with the actual pathological state in human body. However, the models are more difficult to establish compared with the 2D models. Besides, the procedure of the animal models in vivo is even more complex and tougher to operate. Then, researchers challenged to quantify the solid stress through some measurement methods. We compared the advantages and limitations of these models and methods, which may help to explore new therapeutic targets for normalizing the tumor's physical microenvironment. KEY POINTS: •This is the first review to conclude the mechanical models and measurement methods in tumors. •The merit and demerit of these models and methods are compared. •Insights into further models are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingwei Bi
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Zhongshan Road 222, Dalian, 116011, China
| | - Jiacheng Jin
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Zhongshan Road 222, Dalian, 116011, China
| | - Rui Wang
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Zhongshan Road 222, Dalian, 116011, China
| | - Yuxin Liu
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Zhongshan Road 222, Dalian, 116011, China
| | - Liang Zhu
- Dalian University of Technology, Linggong Road 2, Dalian, 116081, China.
- Dalian Medical University, Lvshun South Road 9, Dalian, 116041, China.
| | - Jianbo Wang
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital, Dalian Medical University, Zhongshan Road 222, Dalian, 116011, China.
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2
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Pandey M, Suh YJ, Kim M, Davis HJ, Segall JE, Wu M. Mechanical compression regulates tumor spheroid invasion into a 3D collagen matrix. Phys Biol 2024; 21:036003. [PMID: 38574674 DOI: 10.1088/1478-3975/ad3ac5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
Uncontrolled growth of tumor cells in confined spaces leads to the accumulation of compressive stress within the tumor. Although the effects of tension within 3D extracellular matrices (ECMs) on tumor growth and invasion are well established, the role of compression in tumor mechanics and invasion is largely unexplored. In this study, we modified a Transwell assay such that it provides constant compressive loads to spheroids embedded within a collagen matrix. We used microscopic imaging to follow the single cell dynamics of the cells within the spheroids, as well as invasion into the 3D ECMs. Our experimental results showed that malignant breast tumor (MDA-MB-231) and non-tumorigenic epithelial (MCF10A) spheroids responded differently to a constant compression. Cells within the malignant spheroids became more motile within the spheroids and invaded more into the ECM under compression; whereas cells within non-tumorigenic MCF10A spheroids became less motile within the spheroids and did not display apparent detachment from the spheroids under compression. These findings suggest that compression may play differential roles in healthy and pathogenic epithelial tissues and highlight the importance of tumor mechanics and invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mrinal Pandey
- Department of Biological and Environmental Engineering, Cornell University, 306 Riley-Robb Hall, Ithaca, NY 14853, United States of America
| | - Young Joon Suh
- Department of Biological and Environmental Engineering, Cornell University, 306 Riley-Robb Hall, Ithaca, NY 14853, United States of America
| | - Minha Kim
- Department of Biological Sciences, Cornell University, 216 Stimson Hall, Ithaca, NY 14853, United States of America
| | - Hannah Jane Davis
- Department of Biological Sciences, Cornell University, 216 Stimson Hall, Ithaca, NY 14853, United States of America
| | - Jeffrey E Segall
- Department of Pathology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1300 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY 10461, United States of America
| | - Mingming Wu
- Department of Biological and Environmental Engineering, Cornell University, 306 Riley-Robb Hall, Ithaca, NY 14853, United States of America
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Rahman Z, Bordoloi AD, Rouhana H, Tavasso M, van der Zon G, Garbin V, Ten Dijke P, Boukany PE. Interstitial flow potentiates TGF-β/Smad-signaling activity in lung cancer spheroids in a 3D-microfluidic chip. LAB ON A CHIP 2024; 24:422-433. [PMID: 38087979 PMCID: PMC10826459 DOI: 10.1039/d3lc00886j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
Within the tumor microenvironment (TME), cancer cells use mechanotransduction pathways to convert biophysical forces to biochemical signals. However, the underlying mechanisms and functional significance of these pathways remain largely unclear. The upregulation of mechanosensitive pathways from biophysical forces such as interstitial flow (IF), leads to the activation of various cytokines, including transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β). TGF-β promotes in part via a Smad-dependent signaling pathway the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in cancer cells. The latter process is linked to increased cancer cell motility and invasion. Current research models have limited ability to investigate the combined effects of biophysical forces (such as IF) and cytokines (TGF-β) in a 3D microenvironment. We used a 3D-matrix based microfluidic platform to demonstrate the potentiating effect of IF on exogenous TGF-β induced upregulation of the Smad-signaling activity and the expression of mesenchymal marker vimentin in A549 lung cancer spheroids. To monitor this, we used stably integrated fluorescent based reporters into the A549 cancer cell genome. Our results demonstrate that IF enhances exogenous TGF-β induced Smad-signaling activity in lung cancer spheroids embedded in a matrix microenvironment. In addition, we observed an increased cell motility for A549 spheroids when exposed to IF and TGF-β. Our 3D-microfluidic model integrated with real-time imaging provides a powerful tool for investigating cancer cell signaling and motility associated with invasion characteristics in a physiologically relevant TME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zaid Rahman
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Delft, The Netherlands.
| | - Ankur Deep Bordoloi
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Delft, The Netherlands.
| | - Haifa Rouhana
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Delft, The Netherlands.
| | - Margherita Tavasso
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Delft, The Netherlands.
| | - Gerard van der Zon
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology and Oncode Institute, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Valeria Garbin
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Delft, The Netherlands.
| | - Peter Ten Dijke
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology and Oncode Institute, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Pouyan E Boukany
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Delft, The Netherlands.
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Park J, Soh H, Jo S, Weon S, Lee SH, Park JA, Lee MK, Kim TH, Sung IH, Lee JK. Scaffold-induced compression enhances ligamentization potential of decellularized tendon graft reseeded with ACL-derived cells. iScience 2023; 26:108521. [PMID: 38162024 PMCID: PMC10755058 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.108521] [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: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is often performed using a tendon graft. However, the predominant synthesis of fibrotic scar tissue (type III collagen) occurs during the healing process of the tendon graft, resulting in a significantly lower mechanical strength than that of normal ACL tissue. In this study, ACL-derived cells were reseeded to the tendon graft, and scaffold-induced compression was applied to test whether the compressive force results in superior cell survival and integration. Given nanofiber polycaprolactone (PCL) scaffold-induced compression, ACL-derived cells reseeded to a tendon graft demonstrated superior cell survival and integration and resulted in higher gene expression levels of type I collagen compared to non-compressed cell-allograft composites in vitro. Translocation of Yes-associated protein (YAP) into the nucleus was correlated with higher expression of type I collagen in the compression group. These data support the hypothesis of a potential role of mechanotransduction in the ligamentization process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinsung Park
- Hanyang University Institute for Rheumatology Research, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyunsoo Soh
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Hanyang University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sungsin Jo
- Hanyang University Institute for Rheumatology Research, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Subin Weon
- Hanyang University Institute for Rheumatology Research, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Hoon Lee
- Hanyang University Institute for Rheumatology Research, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong-Ah Park
- Hanyang University Institute for Rheumatology Research, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Myung-Kyu Lee
- Department of Research and Development, Korea Public Tissue Bank, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - Tae-Hwan Kim
- Hanyang University Institute for Rheumatology Research, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Rheumatology, Hanyang University Hospital for Rheumatic Disease, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Il-Hoon Sung
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Hanyang University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Kyu Lee
- Hanyang University Institute for Rheumatology Research, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Hanyang University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Wang C, Ding J, Wei Q, Du S, Gong X, Chew TG. Mechanosensitive accumulation of non-muscle myosin IIB during mitosis requires its translocation activity. iScience 2023; 26:107773. [PMID: 37720093 PMCID: PMC10504539 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 07/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-muscle myosin II (NMII) is a force-generating mechanosensitive enzyme that responds to mechanical forces. NMIIs mechanoaccumulate at the cell cortex in response to mechanical forces. It is essential for cells to mechanically adapt to the physical environment, failure of which results in mitotic defects when dividing in confined environment. Much less is known about how NMII mechanoaccumulation is regulated during mitosis. We show that mitotic cells respond to compressive stress by promoting accumulation of active RhoA at the cell cortex as in interphase cells. RhoA mechanoresponse during mitosis activates and stabilizes NMIIB via ROCK signaling, leading to NMIIB mechanoaccumulation at the cell cortex. Using disease-related myosin II mutations, we found that NMIIB mechanoaccumulation requires its motor activity that translocates actin filaments, but not just its actin-binding function. Thus, the motor activity coordinates structural movement and nucleotide state changes to fine-tune actin-binding affinity optimal for NMIIs to generate and respond to forces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Wang
- Department of Cardiology of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- The Zhejiang University-University of Edinburgh Institute, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Haining 314400, China
| | - Jingjing Ding
- Department of Cardiology of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- The Zhejiang University-University of Edinburgh Institute, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Haining 314400, China
| | - Qiaodong Wei
- Department of Engineering Mechanics, School of Naval Architecture, Ocean and Civil Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Shoukang Du
- Department of Cardiology of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- The Zhejiang University-University of Edinburgh Institute, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Haining 314400, China
| | - Xiaobo Gong
- Department of Engineering Mechanics, School of Naval Architecture, Ocean and Civil Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Ting Gang Chew
- Department of Cardiology of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- The Zhejiang University-University of Edinburgh Institute, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Haining 314400, China
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Gong X, Nguyen R, Chen Z, Wen Z, Zhang X, Mak M. Volumetric Compression Shifts Rho GTPase Balance and Induces Mechanobiological Cell State Transition. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.10.08.561452. [PMID: 37873466 PMCID: PMC10592676 DOI: 10.1101/2023.10.08.561452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
During development and disease progression, cells are subject to osmotic and mechanical stresses that modulate cell volume, which fundamentally influences cell homeostasis and has been linked to a variety of cellular functions. It is not well understood how the mechanobiological state of cells is programmed by the interplay of intracellular organization and complex extracellular mechanics when stimulated by cell volume modulation. Here, by controlling cell volume via osmotic pressure, we evaluate physical phenotypes (including cell shape, morphodynamics, traction force, and extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling) and molecular signaling (YAP), and we uncover fundamental transitions in active biophysical states. We demonstrate that volumetric compression shifts the ratiometric balance of Rho GTPase activities, thereby altering mechanosensing and cytoskeletal organization in a reversible manner. Specifically, volumetric compression controls cell spreading, adhesion formation, and YAP nuclear translocation, while maintaining cell contractile activity. Furthermore, we show that on physiologically relevant fibrillar collagen I matrices, which are highly non-elastic, cells exhibit additional modes of cell volume-dependent mechanosensing that are not observable on elastic substrates. Notably, volumetric compression regulates the dynamics of cell-ECM interactions and irreversible ECM remodeling via Rac-directed protrusion dynamics, at both the single-cell level and the multicellular level. Our findings support that cell volume is a master biophysical regulator and reveal its roles in cell mechanical state transition, cell-ECM interactions, and biophysical tissue programming.
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Schmitter C, Di-Luoffo M, Guillermet-Guibert J. Transducing compressive forces into cellular outputs in cancer and beyond. Life Sci Alliance 2023; 6:e202201862. [PMID: 37364915 PMCID: PMC10292664 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.202201862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
In living organisms, cells sense mechanical forces (shearing, tensile, and compressive) and respond to those physical cues through a process called mechanotransduction. This process includes the simultaneous activation of biochemical signaling pathways. Recent studies mostly on human cells revealed that compressive forces selectively modulate a wide range of cell behavior, both in compressed and in neighboring less compressed cells. Besides participating in tissue homeostasis such as bone healing, compression is also involved in pathologies, including intervertebral disc degeneration or solid cancers. In this review, we will summarize the current scattered knowledge of compression-induced cell signaling pathways and their subsequent cellular outputs, both in physiological and pathological conditions, such as solid cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Céline Schmitter
- CRCT, Université de Toulouse, Inserm, CNRS, Université Toulouse-III Paul Sabatier, Centre de Recherches en Cancérologie de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
- Labex Toucan, Toulouse, France
- Master de Biologie, Ecole Normale Supérieure de Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Université de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Mickaël Di-Luoffo
- CRCT, Université de Toulouse, Inserm, CNRS, Université Toulouse-III Paul Sabatier, Centre de Recherches en Cancérologie de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
- Labex Toucan, Toulouse, France
| | - Julie Guillermet-Guibert
- CRCT, Université de Toulouse, Inserm, CNRS, Université Toulouse-III Paul Sabatier, Centre de Recherches en Cancérologie de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
- Labex Toucan, Toulouse, France
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Pandey M, Suh YJ, Kim M, Davis HJ, Segall JE, Wu M. Mechanical compression regulates tumor spheroid invasion into a 3D collagen matrix. ARXIV 2023:arXiv:2307.01289v1. [PMID: 37461419 PMCID: PMC10350096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/23/2023]
Abstract
Uncontrolled growth of tumor cells in confined spaces leads to the accumulation of compressive stress within the tumor. Although the effects of tension within 3D extracellular matrices on tumor growth and invasion are well established, the role of compression in tumor mechanics and invasion is largely unexplored. In this study, we modified a Transwell assay such that it provides constant compressive loads to spheroids embedded within a collagen matrix. We used microscopic imaging to follow the single cell dynamics of the cells within the spheroids, as well as invasion into the 3D extracellular matrices (EMCs). Our experimental results showed that malignant breast tumor (MDA-MB-231) and non-tumorigenic epithelial (MCF10A) spheroids responded differently to a constant compression. Cells within the malignant spheroids became more motile within the spheroids and invaded more into the ECM under compression; whereas cells within non-tumorigenic MCF10A spheroids became less motile within the spheroids and did not display apparent detachment from the spheroids under compression. These findings suggest that compression may play differential roles in healthy and pathogenic epithelial tissues and highlights the importance of tumor mechanics and invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mrinal Pandey
- Department of Biological and Environmental Engineering, 306 Riley-Robb Hall, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853
| | - Young Joon Suh
- Department of Biological and Environmental Engineering, 306 Riley-Robb Hall, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853
| | - Minha Kim
- Department of Biological Sciences, 216 Stimson Hall, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853
| | - Hannah Jane Davis
- Department of Biological Sciences, 216 Stimson Hall, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853
| | - Jeffrey E Segall
- Anatomy and Structural Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1300 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, New York 10461
| | - Mingming Wu
- Department of Biological and Environmental Engineering, 306 Riley-Robb Hall, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853
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Khalifa MO, Moriwaki T, Zhang S, Zhou W, Ito K, Li TS. Negative pressure induces dedifferentiation of hepatocytes via RhoA/ROCK pathway. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2023; 667:104-110. [PMID: 37210870 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2023.05.042] [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: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Biomechanical forces are known to regulate the biological behaviors of cells. Although negative pressure has been used for wound healing, it is still unknown about its role in regulating cell plasticity. We investigated whether negative pressure could induce the dedifferentiation of hepatocytes. Using a commercial device, we found that the exposure of primary human hepatocytes to -50 mmHg quickly induced the formation of stress fibers and obviously changed cell morphology in 72 h. Moreover, the exposure of hepatocytes to -50 mmHg significantly upregulated RhoA, ROCK1, and ROCK2 in 1-6 h, and dramatically enhanced the expression of marker molecules on "stemness", such as OCT4, SOX2, KLF4, MYC, NANOG, and CD133 in 6-72 h. However, all these changes in hepatocytes induced by -50 mmHg stimulation were almost abrogated by ROCK inhibitor Y27623. Our data suggest that an appropriate force of negative pressure stimulation can effectively induce the dedifferentiation of hepatocytes via RhoA/ROCK pathway activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud Osman Khalifa
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, 1-12-4 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8523, Japan; Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Veterinary Medicine, Aswan University, Aswan, Egypt; Department of Molecular Bone Biology, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki University, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8588, Japan
| | - Takahito Moriwaki
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, 1-12-4 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8523, Japan
| | - Shouhua Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Jiangxi Provincial Children's Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Wei Zhou
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Jiangxi Provincial Cancer Hospital Nanchang, Jiangxi Province, China
| | - Kosei Ito
- Department of Molecular Bone Biology, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki University, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8588, Japan
| | - Tao-Sheng Li
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, 1-12-4 Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8523, Japan.
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Xie N, Xiao C, Shu Q, Cheng B, Wang Z, Xue R, Wen Z, Wang J, Shi H, Fan D, Liu N, Xu F. Cell response to mechanical microenvironment cues via Rho signaling: From mechanobiology to mechanomedicine. Acta Biomater 2023; 159:1-20. [PMID: 36717048 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.01.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Mechanical cues in the cell microenvironment such as those from extracellular matrix properties, stretching, compression and shear stress, play a critical role in maintaining homeostasis. Upon sensing mechanical stimuli, cells can translate these external forces into intracellular biochemical signals to regulate their cellular behaviors, but the specific mechanisms of mechanotransduction at the molecular level remain elusive. As a subfamily of the Ras superfamily, Rho GTPases have been recognized as key intracellular mechanotransduction mediators that can regulate multiple cell activities such as proliferation, migration and differentiation as well as biological processes such as cytoskeletal dynamics, metabolism, and organ development. However, the upstream mechanosensors for Rho proteins and downstream effectors that respond to Rho signal activation have not been well illustrated. Moreover, Rho-mediated mechanical signals in previous studies are highly context-dependent. In this review, we systematically summarize the types of mechanical cues in the cell microenvironment and provide recent advances on the roles of the Rho-based mechanotransduction in various cell activities, physiological processes and diseases. Comprehensive insights into the mechanical roles of Rho GTPase partners would open a new paradigm of mechanomedicine for a variety of diseases. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: In this review, we highlight the critical role of Rho GTPases as signal mediators to respond to physical cues in microenvironment. This article will add a distinct contribution to this set of knowledge by intensively addressing the relationship between Rho signaling and mechanobiology/mechanotransduction/mechanomedcine. This topic has not been discussed by the journal, nor has it yet been developed by the field. The comprehensive picture that will develop, from molecular mechanisms and engineering methods to disease treatment strategies, represents an important and distinct contribution to the field. We hope that this review would help researchers in various fields, especially clinicians, oncologists and bioengineers, who study Rho signal pathway and mechanobiology/mechanotransduction, understand the critical role of Rho GTPase in mechanotransduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Xie
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710049, China; Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710049, China; The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710049, China
| | - Cailan Xiao
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710049, China; Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710049, China; The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710049, China
| | - Qiuai Shu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710049, China
| | - Bo Cheng
- Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710049, China; The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710049, China
| | - Ziwei Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710049, China
| | - Runxin Xue
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710049, China
| | - Zhang Wen
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710049, China
| | - Jinhai Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710049, China
| | - Haitao Shi
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710049, China
| | - Daiming Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Cancer Biology and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an Shaanxi 710049, China.
| | - Na Liu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710049, China; Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710049, China; The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710049, China.
| | - Feng Xu
- Bioinspired Engineering and Biomechanics Center (BEBC), Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710049, China; The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710049, China.
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Biochemical Pathways of Cellular Mechanosensing/Mechanotransduction and Their Role in Neurodegenerative Diseases Pathogenesis. Cells 2022; 11:cells11193093. [PMID: 36231055 PMCID: PMC9563116 DOI: 10.3390/cells11193093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
In this review, we shed light on recent advances regarding the characterization of biochemical pathways of cellular mechanosensing and mechanotransduction with particular attention to their role in neurodegenerative disease pathogenesis. While the mechanistic components of these pathways are mostly uncovered today, the crosstalk between mechanical forces and soluble intracellular signaling is still not fully elucidated. Here, we recapitulate the general concepts of mechanobiology and the mechanisms that govern the mechanosensing and mechanotransduction processes, and we examine the crosstalk between mechanical stimuli and intracellular biochemical response, highlighting their effect on cellular organelles' homeostasis and dysfunction. In particular, we discuss the current knowledge about the translation of mechanosignaling into biochemical signaling, focusing on those diseases that encompass metabolic accumulation of mutant proteins and have as primary characteristics the formation of pathological intracellular aggregates, such as Alzheimer's Disease, Huntington's Disease, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Parkinson's Disease. Overall, recent findings elucidate how mechanosensing and mechanotransduction pathways may be crucial to understand the pathogenic mechanisms underlying neurodegenerative diseases and emphasize the importance of these pathways for identifying potential therapeutic targets.
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12
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Mechanical Stretch Promotes Macrophage Polarization and Inflammation via the RhoA-ROCK/NF-κB Pathway. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 2022:6871269. [PMID: 35915804 PMCID: PMC9338847 DOI: 10.1155/2022/6871269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Macrophages play an essential role in the pathogenesis of most inflammatory diseases. Recent studies have shown that mechanical load can influence macrophage function, leading to excessive and uncontrolled inflammation and even systemic damage, including cardiovascular disease and knee osteoarthritis. However, the molecular mechanism remains unclear. In this study, murine RAW264.7 cells were treated with mechanical stretch (MS) using the Flexcell-5000T Tension System. The expression of inflammatory factors and cytokine release were measured by RT-qPCR, ELISA, and Western blotting. The protein expression of NF-κB p65, Iκb-α, p-Iκb-α, RhoA, ROCK1, and ROCK2 was also detected by Western blotting. Then, Flow cytometry was used to detect the proportion of macrophage subsets. Meanwhile, Y-27632 dihydrochloride, a ROCK inhibitor, was added to knockdown ROCK signal transduction in cells. Our results demonstrated that MS upregulated mRNA expression and increased the secretion levels of proinflammatory factors iNOS, IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6. Additionally, MS significantly increased the proportion of CD11b+CD86+ and CD11b+CD206+ subsets in RAW264.7 macrophages. Furthermore, the protein expression of RhoA, ROCK1, ROCK2, NF-κB p65, and IκB-α increased in MS-treated RAW264.7 cells, as well as the IL-6 and iNOS. In contrast, ROCK inhibitor significantly blocked the activation of RhoA-ROCK and NF-κB pathway, decreased the protein expression of IL-6 and iNOS, reduced the proportion of CD11b+CD86+ cells subpopulation, and increased the proportion of CD11b+CD206+ cell subpopulation after MS. These data indicate that mechanical stretch can regulate the RAW264.7 macrophage polarization and enhance inflammatory responses in vitro, which may contribute to activation the RhoA-ROCK/NF-κB pathway.
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13
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Li H, Ho LWC, Lee LKC, Liu S, Chan CKW, Tian XY, Choi CHJ. Intranuclear Delivery of DNA Nanostructures via Cellular Mechanotransduction. NANO LETTERS 2022; 22:3400-3409. [PMID: 35436127 DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.2c00667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
DNA nanostructures are attractive gene carriers for nanomedicine applications, yet their delivery to the nucleus remains inefficient. We present the application of extracellular mechanical stimuli to activate cellular mechanotransduction for boosting the intranuclear delivery of DNA nanostructures. Treating mammalian cells with polythymidine-rich spherical nucleic acids (poly(T) SNAs) under gentle compression by a single coverslip leads to up to ∼50% nuclear accumulation without severe endosomal entrapment, cytotoxicity, or long-term membrane damage; no chemical modification or transfection reagent is needed. Gentle compression activates Rho-ROCK mechanotransduction and causes nuclear translocation of YAP. Joint compression and treatment with poly(T) oligonucleotides upregulate genes linked to myosin, actin filament, and nuclear import. In turn, Rho-ROCK, myosin, and importin mediate the nuclear entry of poly(T) SNAs. Treatment of endothelioma cells with poly(T) SNAs bearing antisense oligonucleotides under compression inhibits an intranuclear oncogene. Our data should inspire the marriage of DNA nanotechnology and cellular biomechanics for intranuclear applications.
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14
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Physical Forces in Glioblastoma Migration: A Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23074055. [PMID: 35409420 PMCID: PMC9000211 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23074055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The invasive capabilities of glioblastoma (GBM) define the cancer’s aggressiveness, treatment resistance, and overall mortality. The tumor microenvironment influences the molecular behavior of cells, both epigenetically and genetically. Current forces being studied include properties of the extracellular matrix (ECM), such as stiffness and “sensing” capabilities. There is currently limited data on the physical forces in GBM—both relating to how they influence their environment and how their environment influences them. This review outlines the advances that have been made in the field. It is our hope that further investigation of the physical forces involved in GBM will highlight new therapeutic options and increase patient survival. A search of the PubMed database was conducted through to 23 March 2022 with the following search terms: (glioblastoma) AND (physical forces OR pressure OR shear forces OR compression OR tension OR torsion) AND (migration OR invasion). Our review yielded 11 external/applied/mechanical forces and 2 tumor microenvironment (TME) forces that affect the ability of GBM to locally migrate and invade. Both external forces and forces within the tumor microenvironment have been implicated in GBM migration, invasion, and treatment resistance. We endorse further research in this area to target the physical forces affecting the migration and invasion of GBM.
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15
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Yassouf MY, Zhang X, Huang Z, Zhai D, Sekiya R, Kawabata T, Li TS. Biphasic effect of mechanical stress on lymphocyte activation. J Cell Physiol 2022; 237:1521-1531. [PMID: 34724217 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Mechanical forces can modulate the immune response, mostly described as promoting the activation of immune cells, but the role and mechanism of pathological levels of mechanical stress in lymphocyte activation have not been focused on before. By an ex vivo experimental approach, we observed that mechanical stressing of murine spleen lymphocytes with 50 mmHg for 3 h induced the nuclear localization of NFAT1, increased C-Jun, and increased the expression of early activation marker CD69 in resting CD8+ cells. Interestingly, 50 mmHg mechanical stressing induced the nuclear localization of NFAT1; but conversely decreased C-Jun and inhibited the expression of CD69 in lymphocytes under lipopolysaccharide or phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate/ionomycin stimulation. Additionally, we observed similar changes trends when comparing RNA-seq data of hypertensive and normotensive COVID-19 patients. Our results indicate a biphasic effect of mechanical stress on lymphocyte activation, which provides insight into the variety of immune responses in pathologies involving elevated mechanical stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mhd Yousuf Yassouf
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Atomic Bomb Disease Institute, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Xu Zhang
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Atomic Bomb Disease Institute, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Zisheng Huang
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Atomic Bomb Disease Institute, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Da Zhai
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Atomic Bomb Disease Institute, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Reiko Sekiya
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Atomic Bomb Disease Institute, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Kawabata
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Atomic Bomb Disease Institute, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Tao-Sheng Li
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Atomic Bomb Disease Institute, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
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16
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Garg M. Emerging roles of epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity in invasion-metastasis cascade and therapy resistance. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2022; 41:131-145. [PMID: 34978017 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-021-10003-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Strong association of cancer incidence and its progression with mortality highlights the need to decipher the cellular and molecular mechanisms that drive tumor cells to rapidly progress to metastatic disease and therapy resistance. Epithelial-mesenchymal plasticity (EMP) emerged as a key regulator of metastatic outgrowth. It allows neoplastic epithelial cells to delaminate from their neighbors either individually or collectively, traverse the extracellular matrix (ECM) barrier, enter into the circulation, and establish distal metastases. Plasticity between epithelial and mesenchymal states and the existence of hybrid epithelial/mesenchymal (E/M) phenotypes are increasingly being reported in different tumor contexts. Small subset of cancer cells with stemness called cancer stem cells (CSCs) exhibit plasticity, possess high tumorigenic potential, and contribute to high degree of tumoral heterogeneity. EMP characterized by the presence of dynamic intermediate states is reported to be influenced by (epi)genomic reprograming, growth factor signaling, inflammation, and low oxygen generated by tumor stromal microenvironment. EMP alters the genotypic and phenotypic characteristics of tumor cells/CSCs, disrupts tissue homeostasis, induces the reprogramming of angiogenic and immune recognition functions, and renders tumor cells to survive hostile microenvironments and resist therapy. The present review summarizes the roles of EMP in tumor invasion and metastasis and provides an update on therapeutic strategies to target the metastatic and refractory cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minal Garg
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Lucknow, Lucknow, 226007, Uttar Pradesh, India.
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17
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Law AMK, Rodriguez de la Fuente L, Grundy TJ, Fang G, Valdes-Mora F, Gallego-Ortega D. Advancements in 3D Cell Culture Systems for Personalizing Anti-Cancer Therapies. Front Oncol 2021; 11:782766. [PMID: 34917509 PMCID: PMC8669727 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.782766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Over 90% of potential anti-cancer drug candidates results in translational failures in clinical trials. The main reason for this failure can be attributed to the non-accurate pre-clinical models that are being currently used for drug development and in personalised therapies. To ensure that the assessment of drug efficacy and their mechanism of action have clinical translatability, the complexity of the tumor microenvironment needs to be properly modelled. 3D culture models are emerging as a powerful research tool that recapitulates in vivo characteristics. Technological advancements in this field show promising application in improving drug discovery, pre-clinical validation, and precision medicine. In this review, we discuss the significance of the tumor microenvironment and its impact on therapy success, the current developments of 3D culture, and the opportunities that advancements that in vitro technologies can provide to improve cancer therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew M K Law
- Tumour Development Group, The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, NSW, Australia.,St. Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, Randwick, NSW, Australia
| | - Laura Rodriguez de la Fuente
- Tumour Development Group, The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, NSW, Australia.,St. Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, Randwick, NSW, Australia.,Cancer Epigenetic Biology and Therapeutics Lab, Children's Cancer Institute, Randwick, NSW, Australia
| | - Thomas J Grundy
- Life Sciences, Inventia Life Science Pty Ltd, Alexandria, NSW, Australia
| | - Guocheng Fang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and IT, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
| | - Fatima Valdes-Mora
- Cancer Epigenetic Biology and Therapeutics Lab, Children's Cancer Institute, Randwick, NSW, Australia.,School of Women's and Children's Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, Randwick, NSW, Australia
| | - David Gallego-Ortega
- Tumour Development Group, The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, NSW, Australia.,St. Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales Sydney, Randwick, NSW, Australia.,School of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and IT, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
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18
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Structural Biology of the Tumor Microenvironment. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1350:91-100. [PMID: 34888845 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-83282-7_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Cancers can be described as "rogue organs" (Balkwill FR, Capasso M, Hagemann T, J Cell Sci 125:5591-5596, 2012) because they are composed of multiple cell types and tissues. The transformed cells can recruit and alter healthy cells from surrounding tissues for their own benefit. It is these interactions that create the tumor microenvironment (TME). The TME describes the cells, factors, and extracellular matrix proteins that make up the tumor and the area around it; the biology of the TME influences tumor progression. Changes in the TME can lead to the growth and development of the tumor, the death of the tumor, or tumor metastasis. Metastasis is the process by which cancer spreads from its initial site to a different part of the body. Metastasis occurs when cancer cells enter the circulatory system or lymphatic system after they break away from a tumor. Once the cells leave, they can travel to a different part of the body and form new tumors. Therefore, understanding the TME is critical to fully understand cancer and find a way to successfully combat it. Knowledge of the TME can better inform researchers of the ability of potential therapies to reach tumor cells. It can also give researchers potential targets to kill the tumor. Instead of directly killing the cancer cells, therapies can target an aspect of the TME which could then halt tumor development or lead to tumor death. In other cases, targeting another aspect of the TME could make it easier for another therapy to kill the cancer cells, for example, using nanoparticles with collagenases to target the collagen in the surrounding environment to expose the cancer cells to drugs (Zinger A, et al, ACS Nano 13(10):11008-11021, 2019).The TME can be split simply into cells and the structural matrix. Within these groups are fibroblasts, structural proteins, immune cells, lymphocytes, bone marrow-derived inflammatory cells, blood vessels, and signaling molecules (Spill F, et al, Curr Opin Biotechnol 40:41-48, 2016; Del Prete A, et al, Curr Opin Pharmacol 35:40-47, 2017; Arneth B, Medicina (Kaunas) 56(1), 2019). From structure to providing nutrients for growth, each of these components plays a critical role in tumor maintenance. Together these components impact cancer growth, development, and resistance to therapies (Hanahan D, Coussens LM, Cancer Cell 21:309-322, 2012). In this chapter, we will describe the TME and express the importance of the cellular and structural elements of the TME.
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19
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Crosas-Molist E, Samain R, Kohlhammer L, Orgaz J, George S, Maiques O, Barcelo J, Sanz-Moreno V. RhoGTPase Signalling in Cancer Progression and Dissemination. Physiol Rev 2021; 102:455-510. [PMID: 34541899 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00045.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Rho GTPases are a family of small G proteins that regulate a wide array of cellular processes related to their key roles controlling the cytoskeleton. On the other hand, cancer is a multi-step disease caused by the accumulation of genetic mutations and epigenetic alterations, from the initial stages of cancer development when cells in normal tissues undergo transformation, to the acquisition of invasive and metastatic traits, responsible for a large number of cancer related deaths. In this review, we discuss the role of Rho GTPase signalling in cancer in every step of disease progression. Rho GTPases contribute to tumour initiation and progression, by regulating proliferation and apoptosis, but also metabolism, senescence and cell stemness. Rho GTPases play a major role in cell migration, and in the metastatic process. They are also involved in interactions with the tumour microenvironment and regulate inflammation, contributing to cancer progression. After years of intensive research, we highlight the importance of relevant models in the Rho GTPase field, and we reflect on the therapeutic opportunities arising for cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Crosas-Molist
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Remi Samain
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Leonie Kohlhammer
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jose Orgaz
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom.,Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas 'Alberto Sols', CSIC-UAM, 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | - Samantha George
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Oscar Maiques
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jaume Barcelo
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
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20
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Floerchinger A, Murphy KJ, Latham SL, Warren SC, McCulloch AT, Lee YK, Stoehr J, Mélénec P, Guaman CS, Metcalf XL, Lee V, Zaratzian A, Da Silva A, Tayao M, Rolo S, Phimmachanh M, Sultani G, McDonald L, Mason SM, Ferrari N, Ooms LM, Johnsson AKE, Spence HJ, Olson MF, Machesky LM, Sansom OJ, Morton JP, Mitchell CA, Samuel MS, Croucher DR, Welch HCE, Blyth K, Caldon CE, Herrmann D, Anderson KI, Timpson P, Nobis M. Optimizing metastatic-cascade-dependent Rac1 targeting in breast cancer: Guidance using optical window intravital FRET imaging. Cell Rep 2021; 36:109689. [PMID: 34525350 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.109689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Revised: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Assessing drug response within live native tissue provides increased fidelity with regards to optimizing efficacy while minimizing off-target effects. Here, using longitudinal intravital imaging of a Rac1-Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) biosensor mouse coupled with in vivo photoswitching to track intratumoral movement, we help guide treatment scheduling in a live breast cancer setting to impair metastatic progression. We uncover altered Rac1 activity at the center versus invasive border of tumors and demonstrate enhanced Rac1 activity of cells in close proximity to live tumor vasculature using optical window imaging. We further reveal that Rac1 inhibition can enhance tumor cell vulnerability to fluid-flow-induced shear stress and therefore improves overall anti-metastatic response to therapy during transit to secondary sites such as the lung. Collectively, this study demonstrates the utility of single-cell intravital imaging in vivo to demonstrate that Rac1 inhibition can reduce tumor progression and metastases in an autochthonous setting to improve overall survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Floerchinger
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Kendelle J Murphy
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Sharissa L Latham
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Sean C Warren
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Andrew T McCulloch
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Young-Kyung Lee
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Janett Stoehr
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Pauline Mélénec
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Cris S Guaman
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Xanthe L Metcalf
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Victoria Lee
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Anaiis Zaratzian
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Andrew Da Silva
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Michael Tayao
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Sonia Rolo
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow G611BD, UK
| | - Monica Phimmachanh
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Ghazal Sultani
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Laura McDonald
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow G611BD, UK
| | - Susan M Mason
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow G611BD, UK
| | - Nicola Ferrari
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow G611BD, UK; Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Switchback Road, Glasgow G111QH, UK
| | - Lisa M Ooms
- Cancer Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, VIC 3800, Australia
| | | | - Heather J Spence
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Michael F Olson
- Department of Chemistry and Biology, Ryerson University, Toronto ON, M5B 2K3, Canada
| | - Laura M Machesky
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Owen J Sansom
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow G611BD, UK; Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Switchback Road, Glasgow G111QH, UK
| | - Jennifer P Morton
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow G611BD, UK; Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Switchback Road, Glasgow G111QH, UK
| | - Christina A Mitchell
- Cancer Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Michael S Samuel
- Centre for Cancer Biology, SA Pathology and University of South Australia; and the School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - David R Croucher
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Heidi C E Welch
- Signalling Programme, Babraham Institute, Cambridge CB223AT, UK
| | - Karen Blyth
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow G611BD, UK; Institute of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Switchback Road, Glasgow G111QH, UK
| | - C Elizabeth Caldon
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - David Herrmann
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia
| | - Kurt I Anderson
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Switchback Road, Bearsden, Glasgow G611BD, UK; Francis Crick Institute, London NW11AT, UK
| | - Paul Timpson
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia.
| | - Max Nobis
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia.
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21
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Purkayastha P, Jaiswal MK, Lele TP. Molecular cancer cell responses to solid compressive stress and interstitial fluid pressure. Cytoskeleton (Hoboken) 2021; 78:312-322. [PMID: 34291887 DOI: 10.1002/cm.21680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Revised: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Alterations to the mechanical properties of the microenvironment are a hallmark of cancer. Elevated mechanical stresses exist in many solid tumors and elicit responses from cancer cells. Uncontrolled growth in confined environments gives rise to elevated solid compressive stress on cancer cells. Recruitment of leaky blood vessels and an absence of functioning lymphatic vessels causes a rise in the interstitial fluid pressure. Here we review the role of the cancer cell cytoskeleton and the nucleus in mediating both the initial and adaptive cancer cell response to these two types of mechanical stresses. We review how these mechanical stresses alter cancer cell functions such as proliferation, apoptosis, and migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Purboja Purkayastha
- Artie McFerrin Department of Chemical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Manish K Jaiswal
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Tanmay P Lele
- Artie McFerrin Department of Chemical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA.,Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Texas A&M University, Houston, Texas, USA
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22
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Anandhan SV, Krishnan UM. Boron nitride nanotube scaffolds: emergence of a new era in regenerative medicine. Biomed Mater 2021; 16. [PMID: 33770776 DOI: 10.1088/1748-605x/abf27d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Tissue engineering scaffolds have transformed from passive geometrical supports for cell adhesion, extension and proliferation to active, dynamic systems that can in addition, trigger functional maturation of the cells in response to external stimuli. Such 'smart' scaffolds require the incorporation of active response elements that can respond to internal or external stimuli. One of the key elements that direct the cell fate processes is mechanical stress. Different cells respond to various types and magnitudes of mechanical stresses. The incorporation of a pressure-sensitive element in the tissue engineering scaffold therefore, will aid in tuning the cell response to the desired levels. Boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) are analogous to carbon nanotubes and have attracted considerable attention due to their unique amalgamation of chemical inertness, piezoelectric property, biocompatibility and, thermal and mechanical stability. Incorporation of BNNTs in scaffolds confers them with piezoelectric property that can be used to stimulate the cells seeded on them. Biorecognition and solubilization of BNNTs can be engineered through surface functionalization with different biomolecules. Over the years, the importance of BNNT has grown in the realm of healthcare nanotechnology. This review discusses the salient properties of BNNTs, the influence of functionalization on theirin vitroandin vivobiocompatibility, and the uniqueness of BNNT-incorporated tissue engineering scaffolds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sathyan Vivekanand Anandhan
- Centre for Nanotechnology and Advanced Biomaterials (CeNTAB), SASTRA Deemed University, Thanjavur 613 401, Tamil Nadu, India.,School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Thanjavur 613 401, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Uma Maheswari Krishnan
- Centre for Nanotechnology and Advanced Biomaterials (CeNTAB), SASTRA Deemed University, Thanjavur 613 401, Tamil Nadu, India.,School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Thanjavur 613 401, Tamil Nadu, India.,School of Arts, Science and Humanities, SASTRA Deemed University, Thanjavur 613 401, Tamil Nadu, India
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23
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Keller L, Tardy C, Ligat L, Gilhodes J, Filleron T, Bery N, Rochaix P, Aquilina A, Bdioui S, Roux T, Trinquet E, Favre G, Olichon A. Nanobody-Based Quantification of GTP-Bound RHO Conformation Reveals RHOA and RHOC Activation Independent from Their Total Expression in Breast Cancer. Anal Chem 2021; 93:6104-6111. [PMID: 33825439 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.0c05137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
As key regulators of the actin cytoskeleton, RHO GTPase expression and/or activity are deregulated in tumorigenesis and metastatic progression. Nevertheless, the vast majority of experiments supporting this conclusion was conducted on cell lines but not on human tumor samples that were mostly studied at the expression level only. Up to now, the activity of RHO proteins remains poorly investigated in human tumors. In this article, we present the development of a robust nanobody-based ELISA assay, with a high selectivity that allows an accurate quantification of RHO protein GTP-bound state in the nanomolar range (1 nM; 20 μg/L), not only in cell lines after treatment but also in tumor samples. Of note, we present here a fine analysis of RHOA-like and RAC1 active state in tumor samples with the most comprehensive study of RHOA-GTP and RHOC-GTP levels performed on human breast tumor samples. We revealed increased GTP-bound RHOA and RHOC protein activities in tumors compared to normal tissue counterparts, and demonstrated that the RHO active state and RHO expression are two independent parameters among different breast cancer subtypes. Our results further highlight the regulation of RHO protein activation in tumor samples and the relevance of directly studying RHO GTPase activities involvement in molecular pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Keller
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Toulouse (CRCT), INSERM, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, Toulouse 31037, France.,Laboratoire de Biologie Médicale Oncologique, Institut Claudius Regaud, IUCT-Oncopôle, Toulouse 31037, France
| | - Claudine Tardy
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Toulouse (CRCT), INSERM, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, Toulouse 31037, France
| | - Laetitia Ligat
- Le Pôle Technologique du Centre de Recherches en Cancérologie de Toulouse, plateau de protéomique, Toulouse 31037, France
| | - Julia Gilhodes
- Service de Biostatistiques, Institut Claudius Regaud, IUCT-Oncopôle, Toulouse 31059, France
| | - Thomas Filleron
- Service de Biostatistiques, Institut Claudius Regaud, IUCT-Oncopôle, Toulouse 31059, France
| | - Nicolas Bery
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Toulouse (CRCT), INSERM, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, Toulouse 31037, France
| | - Philippe Rochaix
- Laboratoire de Biologie Médicale Oncologique, Institut Claudius Regaud, IUCT-Oncopôle, Toulouse 31037, France
| | | | | | | | | | - Gilles Favre
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Toulouse (CRCT), INSERM, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, Toulouse 31037, France.,Laboratoire de Biologie Médicale Oncologique, Institut Claudius Regaud, IUCT-Oncopôle, Toulouse 31037, France
| | - Aurélien Olichon
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Toulouse (CRCT), INSERM, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, Toulouse 31037, France.,INSERM, UMR 1188 Diabète athérothrombose Réunion Océan Indien (DéTROI), Université de La Réunion, Saint-Denis de La Réunion 97487, France
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24
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Boyle ST, Johan MZ, Samuel MS. Tumour-directed microenvironment remodelling at a glance. J Cell Sci 2020; 133:133/24/jcs247783. [PMID: 33443095 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.247783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The tissue microenvironment supports normal tissue function and regulates the behaviour of parenchymal cells. Tumour cell behaviour, on the other hand, diverges significantly from that of their normal counterparts, rendering the microenvironment hostile to tumour cells. To overcome this problem, tumours can co-opt and remodel the microenvironment to facilitate their growth and spread. This involves modifying both the biochemistry and the biophysics of the normal microenvironment to produce a tumour microenvironment. In this Cell Science at a Glance article and accompanying poster, we outline the key processes by which epithelial tumours influence the establishment of the tumour microenvironment. As the microenvironment is populated by genetically normal cells, we discuss how controlling the microenvironment is both a significant challenge and a key vulnerability for tumours. Finally, we review how new insights into tumour-microenvironment interactions has led to the current consensus on how these processes may be targeted as novel anti-cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah T Boyle
- Centre for Cancer Biology, An Alliance between SA Pathology and the University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia
| | - M Zahied Johan
- Centre for Cancer Biology, An Alliance between SA Pathology and the University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia
| | - Michael S Samuel
- Centre for Cancer Biology, An Alliance between SA Pathology and the University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia .,Adelaide Medical School, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
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25
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Boyle ST, Mittal P, Kaur G, Hoffmann P, Samuel MS, Klingler-Hoffmann M. Uncovering Tumor-Stroma Inter-relationships Using MALDI Mass Spectrometry Imaging. J Proteome Res 2020; 19:4093-4103. [PMID: 32870688 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.0c00511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Tumorigenesis involves a complex interplay between genetically modified cancer cells and their adjacent normal tissue, the stroma. We used an established breast cancer mouse model to investigate this inter-relationship. Conditional activation of Rho-associated protein kinase (ROCK) in a model of mammary tumorigenesis enhances tumor growth and progression by educating the stroma and enhancing the production and remodeling of the extracellular matrix. We used peptide matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI-MSI) to quantify the proteomic changes occurring within tumors and their stroma in their regular spatial context. Peptides were ranked according to their ability to discriminate between the two groups, using a receiver operating characteristic tool. Peptides were identified by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry, and protein expression was validated by quantitative immunofluorescence using an independent set of tumor samples. We have identified and validated four key proteins upregulated in ROCK-activated mammary tumors relative to those expressing kinase-dead ROCK, namely, collagen I, α-SMA, Rab14, and tubulin-β4. Rab14 and tubulin-β4 are expressed within tumor cells, whereas collagen I is localized within the stroma. α-SMA is predominantly localized within the stroma but is also expressed at higher levels in the epithelia of ROCK-activated tumors. High expression of COL1A, the gene encoding the pro-α 1 chain of collagen, correlates with cancer progression in two human breast cancer genomic data sets, and high expression of COL1A and ACTA2 (the gene encoding α-SMA) are associated with a low survival probability (COLIA, p = 0.00013; ACTA2, p = 0.0076) in estrogen receptor-negative breast cancer patients. To investigate whether ROCK-activated tumor cells cause stromal cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) to upregulate expression of collagen I and α-SMA, we treated CAFs with medium conditioned by primary mammary tumor cells in which ROCK had been activated. This led to abundant production of both proteins in CAFs, clearly highlighting the inter-relationship between tumor cells and CAFs and identifying CAFs as the potential source of high levels of collagen 1 and α-SMA and associated enhancement of tissue stiffness. Our research emphasizes the capacity of MALDI-MSI to quantitatively assess tumor-stroma inter-relationships and to identify potential prognostic factors for cancer progression in human patients, using sophisticated mouse cancer models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah T Boyle
- Centre for Cancer Biology, SA Pathology and the University of South Australia, Adelaide SA 5000, Australia
| | - Parul Mittal
- Future Industries Institute, University of South Australia, Mawson Lakes SA 5095, Australia
| | - Gurjeet Kaur
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Minden 11800 Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
| | - Peter Hoffmann
- Future Industries Institute, University of South Australia, Mawson Lakes SA 5095, Australia
| | - Michael S Samuel
- Centre for Cancer Biology, SA Pathology and the University of South Australia, Adelaide SA 5000, Australia.,Adelaide Medical School, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide SA 5000, Australia
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26
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Copos C, Mogilner A. A hybrid stochastic-deterministic mechanochemical model of cell polarization. Mol Biol Cell 2020; 31:1637-1649. [PMID: 32459563 PMCID: PMC7521800 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e19-09-0549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Revised: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Polarization is a crucial component in cell differentiation, development, and motility, but its details are not yet well understood. At the onset of cell locomotion, cells break symmetry to form well-defined cell fronts and rears. This polarity establishment varies across cell types: in Dictyostelium discoideum cells, it is mediated by biochemical signaling pathways and can function in the absence of a cytoskeleton, while in keratocytes, it is tightly connected to cytoskeletal dynamics and mechanics. Theoretical models that have been developed to understand the onset of polarization have explored either signaling or mechanical pathways, yet few have explored mechanochemical mechanisms. However, many motile cells rely on both signaling modules and actin cytoskeleton to break symmetry and achieve a stable polarized state. We propose a general mechanochemical polarization model based on coupling between a stochastic model for the segregation of signaling molecules and a simplified mechanical model for actin cytoskeleton network competition. We find that local linear coupling between minimally nonlinear signaling and cytoskeletal systems, separately not supporting stable polarization, yields a robustly polarized cell state. The model captures the essence of spontaneous polarization of neutrophils, which has been proposed to emerge due to the competition between frontness and backness pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Calina Copos
- Courant Institute, New York University, New York, NY 10012
| | - Alex Mogilner
- Courant Institute, New York University, New York, NY 10012
- Department of Biology, New York University, New York, NY 10012
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27
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Nobis M, Herrmann D, Warren SC, Strathdee D, Cox TR, Anderson KI, Timpson P. Shedding new light on RhoA signalling as a drug target in vivo using a novel RhoA-FRET biosensor mouse. Small GTPases 2020; 11:240-247. [PMID: 29457531 PMCID: PMC7549666 DOI: 10.1080/21541248.2018.1438024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2017] [Accepted: 02/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The small GTPase RhoA is a master regulator of signalling in cell-extracellular matrix interactions. RhoA signalling is critical to many cellular processes including migration, mechanotransduction, and is often disrupted in carcinogenesis. Investigating RhoA activity in a native tissue environment is challenging using conventional biochemical methods; we therefore developed a RhoA-FRET biosensor mouse, employing the adaptable nature of intravital imaging to a variety of settings. Mechanotransduction was explored in the context of osteocyte processes embedded in the calvaria responding in a directional manner to compression stress. Further, the migration of neutrophils was examined during in vivo "chemotaxis" in wound response. RhoA activity was tightly regulated during tissue remodelling in mammary gestation, as well as during mammary and pancreatic carcinogenesis. Finally, pharmacological inhibition of RhoA was temporally resolved by the use of optical imaging windows in fully developed pancreatic and mammary tumours in vivo. The RhoA-FRET mouse therefore constitutes a powerful tool to facilitate development of new inhibitors targeting the RhoA signalling axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max Nobis
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, 2010NSW, Australia
| | - David Herrmann
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, 2010NSW, Australia
| | - Sean C. Warren
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, 2010NSW, Australia
| | - Douglas Strathdee
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Switchback Road, Bearsden, GlasgowG611BD, UK
| | - Thomas R. Cox
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, 2010NSW, Australia
| | | | - Paul Timpson
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research, St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, 2010NSW, Australia
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28
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Boyle ST, Poltavets V, Kular J, Pyne NT, Sandow JJ, Lewis AC, Murphy KJ, Kolesnikoff N, Moretti PAB, Tea MN, Tergaonkar V, Timpson P, Pitson SM, Webb AI, Whitfield RJ, Lopez AF, Kochetkova M, Samuel MS. ROCK-mediated selective activation of PERK signalling causes fibroblast reprogramming and tumour progression through a CRELD2-dependent mechanism. Nat Cell Biol 2020; 22:882-895. [PMID: 32451439 DOI: 10.1038/s41556-020-0523-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2019] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
It is well accepted that cancers co-opt the microenvironment for their growth. However, the molecular mechanisms that underlie cancer-microenvironment interactions are still poorly defined. Here, we show that Rho-associated kinase (ROCK) in the mammary tumour epithelium selectively actuates protein-kinase-R-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK), causing the recruitment and persistent education of tumour-promoting cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), which are part of the cancer microenvironment. An analysis of tumours from patients and mice reveals that cysteine-rich with EGF-like domains 2 (CRELD2) is the paracrine factor that underlies PERK-mediated CAF education downstream of ROCK. We find that CRELD2 is regulated by PERK-regulated ATF4, and depleting CRELD2 suppressed tumour progression, demonstrating that the paracrine ROCK-PERK-ATF4-CRELD2 axis promotes the progression of breast cancer, with implications for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Theresa Boyle
- Centre for Cancer Biology, SA Pathology and the University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Valentina Poltavets
- Centre for Cancer Biology, SA Pathology and the University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Jasreen Kular
- Centre for Cancer Biology, SA Pathology and the University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Natasha Theresa Pyne
- Centre for Cancer Biology, SA Pathology and the University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Jarrod John Sandow
- Division of Systems Biology and Personalised Medicine, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alexander Charles Lewis
- Centre for Cancer Biology, SA Pathology and the University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,Translational Haematology Program, Peter McCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kendelle Joan Murphy
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Cancer Division, St Vincent's Clinical School, University of NSW, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Natasha Kolesnikoff
- Centre for Cancer Biology, SA Pathology and the University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | | | - Melinda Nay Tea
- Centre for Cancer Biology, SA Pathology and the University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Vinay Tergaonkar
- Centre for Cancer Biology, SA Pathology and the University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, A*STAR and Department of Pathology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Paul Timpson
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Cancer Division, St Vincent's Clinical School, University of NSW, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Stuart Maxwell Pitson
- Centre for Cancer Biology, SA Pathology and the University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,Adelaide Medical School, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Andrew Ian Webb
- Division of Systems Biology and Personalised Medicine, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Robert John Whitfield
- Breast, Endocrine and Surgical Oncology Unit, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Angel Francisco Lopez
- Centre for Cancer Biology, SA Pathology and the University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,Adelaide Medical School, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Marina Kochetkova
- Centre for Cancer Biology, SA Pathology and the University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.
| | - Michael Susithiran Samuel
- Centre for Cancer Biology, SA Pathology and the University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia. .,Adelaide Medical School, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.
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29
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Porazinski S, Parkin A, Pajic M. Rho-ROCK Signaling in Normal Physiology and as a Key Player in Shaping the Tumor Microenvironment. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2020; 1223:99-127. [PMID: 32030687 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-35582-1_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The Rho-ROCK signaling network has a range of specialized functions of key biological importance, including control of essential developmental processes such as morphogenesis and physiological processes including homeostasis, immunity, and wound healing. Deregulation of Rho-ROCK signaling actively contributes to multiple pathological conditions, and plays a major role in cancer development and progression. This dynamic network is critical in modulating the intricate communication between tumor cells, surrounding diverse stromal cells and the matrix, shaping the ever-changing microenvironment of aggressive tumors. In this chapter, we overview the complex regulation of the Rho-ROCK signaling axis, its role in health and disease, and analyze progress made with key approaches targeting the Rho-ROCK pathway for therapeutic benefit. Finally, we conclude by outlining likely future trends and key questions in the field of Rho-ROCK research, in particular surrounding Rho-ROCK signaling within the tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean Porazinski
- Personalised Cancer Therapeutics Lab, The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, St Vincent's Clinical School, University of NSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Ashleigh Parkin
- Personalised Cancer Therapeutics Lab, The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Marina Pajic
- Personalised Cancer Therapeutics Lab, The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, Sydney, NSW, Australia. .,Faculty of Medicine, St Vincent's Clinical School, University of NSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
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30
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Elgundi Z, Papanicolaou M, Major G, Cox TR, Melrose J, Whitelock JM, Farrugia BL. Cancer Metastasis: The Role of the Extracellular Matrix and the Heparan Sulfate Proteoglycan Perlecan. Front Oncol 2020; 9:1482. [PMID: 32010611 PMCID: PMC6978720 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2019.01482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer metastasis is the dissemination of tumor cells to new sites, resulting in the formation of secondary tumors. This process is complex and is spatially and temporally regulated by intrinsic and extrinsic factors. One important extrinsic factor is the extracellular matrix, the non-cellular component of tissues. Heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs) are constituents of the extracellular matrix, and through their heparan sulfate chains and protein core, modulate multiple events that occur during the metastatic cascade. This review will provide an overview of the role of the extracellular matrix in the events that occur during cancer metastasis, primarily focusing on perlecan. Perlecan, a basement membrane HSPG is a key component of the vascular extracellular matrix and is commonly associated with events that occur during the metastatic cascade. Its contradictory role in these events will be discussed and we will highlight the recent advances in cancer therapies that target HSPGs and their modifying enzymes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zehra Elgundi
- Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Michael Papanicolaou
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, UNSW Sydney, Darlinghurst, NSW, Australia.,School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Gretel Major
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, UNSW Sydney, Darlinghurst, NSW, Australia
| | - Thomas R Cox
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research and The Kinghorn Cancer Centre, UNSW Sydney, Darlinghurst, NSW, Australia.,St Vincent's Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - James Melrose
- Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Raymond Purves Bone and Joint Research Laboratories, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Royal North Shore Hospital, University of Sydney, St Leonards, NSW, Australia
| | - John M Whitelock
- Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Brooke L Farrugia
- Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Melbourne School of Engineering, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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31
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The Extracellular Matrix Modulates the Metastatic Journey. Dev Cell 2020; 49:332-346. [PMID: 31063753 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2019.03.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 306] [Impact Index Per Article: 76.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2019] [Revised: 03/21/2019] [Accepted: 03/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The extracellular matrix is perturbed in tumors. The tumor matrix promotes the growth, survival, and invasion of the cancer and modifies fibroblast and immune cell behavior to drive metastasis and impair treatment. Here, we discuss how the tumor matrix regulates metastasis by fostering tumor cell invasion into the stroma and migration toward the vasculature. We describe the role of the tumor matrix in cancer cell intravasation and vascular dissemination. We examine the impact of the matrix on disseminated tumor cell extravasation and on tumor dormancy and metastatic outgrowth. Finally, we discuss the clinical outcome of therapeutics that normalize tumor-matrix interactions.
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32
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Yadav S, Barton M, Nguyen NT. Stretching Induces Overexpression of RhoA and Rac1 GTPases in Breast Cancer Cells. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 4:e1900222. [PMID: 32293133 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.201900222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Rho GTPases are well known for regulating cell morphology and intracellular interactions. They can either be oncogenic or tumor suppressors. However, these proteins are associated with the acquirement of malignant features by cancer cells. It has been reported that the overexpression of protein markers of Rho family members such as RhoA and Rac1 is linked with carcinogenesis and the progression of a variety of human tumors. In this paper, the expression of RhoA and Rac1 activity in various types of breast cancers cell lines is evaluated. These cells are preconditioned by mechanically stretching them to simulate the extracellular physical forces placed upon on cancer cells. It is observed that stretching the cancer cells induces significantly higher expression of RhoA and Rac1 markers when compared to non-stretched cells and stretched control cells in vitro. This stretching strategy helps to detect and quantify the signal when it is too weak to be detected. Furthermore, stretching enhances the assay by leading to overexpression of markers and makes the assay more sensitive. It is hypothesized that this inexpensive and relatively sensitive assay can potentially aid in the development of a diagnostic tool for cancer screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharda Yadav
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre, Nathan Campus, Griffith University, 170 Kessels Road, Brisbane, QLD, 4111, Australia
| | - Matthew Barton
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Gold Coast Campus, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, 4222, Australia
| | - Nam-Trung Nguyen
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre, Nathan Campus, Griffith University, 170 Kessels Road, Brisbane, QLD, 4111, Australia
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33
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Taubenberger AV, Girardo S, Träber N, Fischer-Friedrich E, Kräter M, Wagner K, Kurth T, Richter I, Haller B, Binner M, Hahn D, Freudenberg U, Werner C, Guck J. 3D Microenvironment Stiffness Regulates Tumor Spheroid Growth and Mechanics via p21 and ROCK. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 3:e1900128. [PMID: 32648654 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.201900128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The mechanical properties of cancer cells and their microenvironment contribute to breast cancer progression. While mechanosensing has been extensively studied using 2D substrates, much less is known about it in a physiologically more relevant 3D context. Here it is demonstrated that breast cancer tumor spheroids, growing in 3D polyethylene glycol-heparin hydrogels, are sensitive to their environment stiffness. During tumor spheroid growth, compressive stresses of up to 2 kPa build up, as quantitated using elastic polymer beads as stress sensors. Atomic force microscopy reveals that tumor spheroid stiffness increases with hydrogel stiffness. Also, constituent cell stiffness increases in a Rho associated kinase (ROCK)- and F-actin-dependent manner. Increased hydrogel stiffness correlated with attenuated tumor spheroid growth, a higher proportion of cells in G0/G1 phase, and elevated levels of the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p21. Drug-mediated ROCK inhibition not only reverses cell stiffening upon culture in stiff hydrogels but also increases tumor spheroid growth. Taken together, a mechanism by which the growth of a tumor spheroid can be regulated via cytoskeleton rearrangements in response to its mechanoenvironment is revealed here. Thus, the findings contribute to a better understanding of how cancer cells react to compressive stress when growing under confinement in stiff environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna V Taubenberger
- TU Dresden, Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering (CMCB), Fetscherstr. 105, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Salvatore Girardo
- TU Dresden, Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering (CMCB), Fetscherstr. 105, 01307, Dresden, Germany.,Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light, Max-Planck-Zentrum für Physik und Medizin, Staudtstr. 2, 91058, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Nicole Träber
- TU Dresden, Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering (CMCB), Fetscherstr. 105, 01307, Dresden, Germany.,Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research Dresden, Max Bergmann Center, Hohe Str. 6, 01069, Dresden, Germany
| | - Elisabeth Fischer-Friedrich
- TU Dresden, Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering (CMCB), Fetscherstr. 105, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Martin Kräter
- TU Dresden, Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering (CMCB), Fetscherstr. 105, 01307, Dresden, Germany.,Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light, Max-Planck-Zentrum für Physik und Medizin, Staudtstr. 2, 91058, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Katrin Wagner
- TU Dresden, Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering (CMCB), Fetscherstr. 105, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Thomas Kurth
- TU Dresden, Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering (CMCB), Fetscherstr. 105, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Isabel Richter
- TU Dresden, Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering (CMCB), Fetscherstr. 105, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Barbara Haller
- TU Dresden, Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering (CMCB), Fetscherstr. 105, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Marcus Binner
- Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research Dresden, Max Bergmann Center, Hohe Str. 6, 01069, Dresden, Germany
| | - Dominik Hahn
- Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research Dresden, Max Bergmann Center, Hohe Str. 6, 01069, Dresden, Germany
| | - Uwe Freudenberg
- Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research Dresden, Max Bergmann Center, Hohe Str. 6, 01069, Dresden, Germany
| | - Carsten Werner
- TU Dresden, Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering (CMCB), Fetscherstr. 105, 01307, Dresden, Germany.,Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research Dresden, Max Bergmann Center, Hohe Str. 6, 01069, Dresden, Germany
| | - Jochen Guck
- TU Dresden, Center for Molecular and Cellular Bioengineering (CMCB), Fetscherstr. 105, 01307, Dresden, Germany.,Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light, Max-Planck-Zentrum für Physik und Medizin, Staudtstr. 2, 91058, Erlangen, Germany
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Dillon EL, Soman KV, Wiktorowicz JE, Sur R, Jupiter D, Danesi CP, Randolph KM, Gilkison CR, Durham WJ, Urban RJ, Sheffield-Moore M. Proteomic investigation of human skeletal muscle before and after 70 days of head down bed rest with or without exercise and testosterone countermeasures. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0217690. [PMID: 31194764 PMCID: PMC6563988 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0217690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2018] [Accepted: 05/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Long-term head-down bed rest (HDBR) results in musculoskeletal losses similar to those observed during long-term space flight. Agents such as testosterone, in addition to regular exercise, are effective countermeasures for reducing loss of skeletal muscle mass and function. Objective We investigated the skeletal muscle proteome of healthy men in response to long term HDBR alone (CON) and to HDBR with exercise (PEX) or exercise plus testosterone (TEX) countermeasures. Method Biopsies were performed on the vastus lateralis before (pre) HDBR and on HDBR days 32 (mid) and 64 (post). Extracted proteins from these skeletal muscle biopsies were subjected to 2-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2DE), stained for phosphoproteins (Pro-Q Diamond dye) and total proteins (Sypro Ruby dye). Proteins showing significant fold differences (t-test p ≤ 0.05) in abundance or phosphorylation state at mid or post were identified by mass spectroscopy (MS). Results From a total of 932 protein spots, 130 spots were identified as potentially altered in terms of total protein or phosphoprotein levels due to HDBR and/or countermeasures, and 59 unique molecules emerged from MS analysis. Top canonical pathways identified through IPA included calcium signaling, actin cytoskeleton signaling, integrin linked kinase (ILK) signaling, and epithelial adherens junction signaling. Data from the pre-HDBR proteome supported the potential for predicting physiological post-HDBR responses such as the individual’s potential for loss vs. maintenance of muscle mass and strength. Conclusions HDBR resulted in alterations to skeletal muscle abundances and phosphorylation of several structural and metabolic proteins. Inclusion of exercise alone or in combination with testosterone treatment modulated the proteomic responses towards cellular reorganization and hypertrophy, respectively. Finally, the baseline proteome may aid in the development of personalized countermeasures to mitigate health risks in astronauts as related to loss of muscle mass and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- E. Lichar Dillon
- Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States of America
| | - Kizhake V. Soman
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States of America
| | - John E. Wiktorowicz
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States of America
| | - Ria Sur
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States of America
| | - Daniel Jupiter
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Community Health, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States of America
| | - Christopher P. Danesi
- Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States of America
| | - Kathleen M. Randolph
- Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States of America
| | - Charles R. Gilkison
- Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States of America
| | - William J. Durham
- Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States of America
| | - Randall J. Urban
- Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States of America
| | - Melinda Sheffield-Moore
- Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States of America
- Department of Health and Kinesiology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Huang C, Gan D, Luo F, Wan S, Chen J, Wang A, Li B, Zhu X. Interaction Mechanisms Between the NOX4/ROS and RhoA/ROCK1 Signaling Pathways as New Anti- fibrosis Targets of Ursolic Acid in Hepatic Stellate Cells. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:431. [PMID: 31130857 PMCID: PMC6510285 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.00431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2019] [Accepted: 04/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Studies have shown that both NOX4 and RhoA play essential roles in fibrosis and that they regulate each other. In lung fibrosis, NOX4/ROS is located upstream of the RhoA/ROCK1 signaling pathway, and the two molecules are oppositely located in renal fibrosis. Currently, no reports have indicated whether the above mechanisms or other regulatory mechanisms exist in liver fibrosis. Objectives To investigate the effects of the NOX4/ROS and RhoA/ROCK1 signaling pathways on hepatic stellate cell (HSC)-T6 cells, the interaction mechanisms of the two pathways, and the impact of UA on the two pathways to elucidate the role of UA in the reduction of hepatic fibrosis and potential mechanisms of HSC-T6 cell proliferation, migration, and activation. Methods Stable cell lines were constructed using the lentiviral transduction technique. Cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and invasion were examined using the MTS, TdT-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling, cell scratch, and Transwell invasion assays, respectively. The DCFH-DA method was used to investigate the ROS levels in each group. RT-qPCR and western blotting techniques were utilized to assess the mRNA and protein expression in each group. CoIP and the Biacore protein interaction analysis systems were used to evaluate protein interactions. Results The NOX4/ROS and RhoA/ROCK1 signaling pathways promoted the proliferation, migration, and activation of HSCs. UA inhibited cell proliferation, migration, and activation by inhibiting the activation of the two signaling pathways, but the mechanism of apoptosis was independent of these two pathways. The NOX4/ROS pathway was upstream of and positively regulated the RhoA/ROCK1 pathway in HSCs. No direct interaction between the NOX4 and RhoA proteins was detected. Conclusion The NOX4/ROS and RhoA/ROCK1 signaling pathways are two critical signaling pathways in a series of behavioral processes in HSCs, and NOX4/ROS regulates RhoA/ROCK1 through an indirect pathway to control the activation of HSCs. Additionally, NOX4/ROS and RhoA/ROCK1 constitute a new target for UA antifibrosis treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenkai Huang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Dakai Gan
- Department One of Liver Disease, The Ninth Hospital of Nanchang, Nanchang, China
| | - Fangyun Luo
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Sizhe Wan
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Jiang Chen
- Digestive Disease Research Institute of Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, China
| | - Anjiang Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Bimin Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
| | - Xuan Zhu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
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The emergence of solid stress as a potent biomechanical marker of tumour progression. Emerg Top Life Sci 2018; 2:739-749. [PMID: 33530664 DOI: 10.1042/etls20180049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2018] [Revised: 11/02/2018] [Accepted: 11/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Cancer is a disease of dysregulated mechanics which alters cell behaviour, compromises tissue structure, and promotes tumour growth and metastasis. In the context of tumour progression, the most widely studied of biomechanical markers is matrix stiffness as tumour tissue is typically stiffer than healthy tissue. However, solid stress has recently been identified as another marker of tumour growth, with findings strongly suggesting that its role in cancer is distinct from that of stiffness. Owing to the relative infancy of the field which draws from diverse disciplines, a comprehensive knowledge of the relationships between solid stress, tumorigenesis, and metastasis is likely to provide new and valuable insights. In this review, we discuss the micro- and macro-scale biomechanical interactions that give rise to solid stresses, and also examine the techniques developed to quantify solid stress within the tumour environment. Moreover, by reviewing the effects of solid stress on tissues, cancer and stromal cells, and signalling pathways, we also detail its mode of action at each level of the cancer cascade.
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Poltavets V, Kochetkova M, Pitson SM, Samuel MS. The Role of the Extracellular Matrix and Its Molecular and Cellular Regulators in Cancer Cell Plasticity. Front Oncol 2018; 8:431. [PMID: 30356678 PMCID: PMC6189298 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2018.00431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 236] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2018] [Accepted: 09/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The microenvironment encompasses all components of a tumor other than the cancer cells themselves. It is highly heterogenous, comprising a cellular component that includes immune cells, fibroblasts, adipocytes, and endothelial cells, and a non-cellular component, which is a meshwork of polymeric proteins and accessory molecules, termed the extracellular matrix (ECM). The ECM provides both a biochemical and biomechanical context within which cancer cells exist. Cancer progression is dependent on the ability of cancer cells to traverse the ECM barrier, access the circulation and establish distal metastases. Communication between cancer cells and the microenvironment is therefore an important aspect of tumor progression. Significant progress has been made in identifying the molecular mechanisms that enable cancer cells to subvert the immune component of the microenvironment to facilitate tumor growth and spread. While much less is known about how the tumor cells adapt to changes in the ECM nor indeed how they influence ECM structure and composition, the importance of the ECM to cancer progression is now well established. Plasticity refers to the ability of cancer cells to modify their physiological characteristics, permitting them to survive hostile microenvironments and resist therapy. Examples include the acquisition of stemness characteristics and the epithelial-mesenchymal and mesenchymal-epithelial transitions. There is emerging evidence that the biochemical and biomechanical properties of the ECM influence cancer cell plasticity and vice versa. Outstanding challenges for the field remain the identification of the cellular mechanisms by which cancer cells establish tumor-promoting ECM characteristics and delineating the key molecular mechanisms underlying ECM-induced cancer cell plasticity. Here we summarize the current state of understanding about the relationships between cancer cells and the main stromal cell types of the microenvironment that determine ECM characteristics, and the key molecular pathways that govern this three-way interaction to regulate cancer cell plasticity. We postulate that a comprehensive understanding of this dynamic system will be required to fully exploit opportunities for targeting the ECM regulators of cancer cell plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Poltavets
- Centre for Cancer Biology, SA Pathology and University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Marina Kochetkova
- Centre for Cancer Biology, SA Pathology and University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Stuart M Pitson
- Centre for Cancer Biology, SA Pathology and University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,Adelaide Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Michael S Samuel
- Centre for Cancer Biology, SA Pathology and University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,Adelaide Medical School, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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