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Jiang S, Hu L, Zhou H, Wu J, Zhou J, Yu X, Chen G. Novel Therapeutic Mechanisms and Strategies for Intracerebral Hemorrhage: Focusing on Exosomes. Int J Nanomedicine 2024; 19:8987-9007. [PMID: 39246427 PMCID: PMC11378801 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s473611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2024] [Accepted: 08/20/2024] [Indexed: 09/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is a primary, non-traumatic cerebral event associated with substantial mortality and disability. Despite advancements in understanding its etiology and refining diagnostic techniques, a validated treatment to significantly improve ICH prognosis remains elusive. Exosomes, a subtype of extracellular vesicles, encapsulate bioactive components, predominantly microRNAs (miRNAs), facilitating and regulating intercellular communication. Currently, exosomes have garnered considerable interests in clinical transformation for their nanostructure, minimal immunogenicity, low toxicity, inherent stability, and the ability to traverse the blood-brain barrier. A wealth of studies has demonstrated that exosomes can improve the prognosis of ICH through anti-apoptosis, neurogenesis, angiogenesis, anti-inflammation, immunomodulation, and autophagy, primarily via the transportation or overexpression of selected miRNAs. More importantly, exosomes can be easily customized with specific miRNAs or bioactive compounds to establish delivery systems, broadening their potential applications. This review focuses on the therapeutic potential of exosomes in ICH, reviewing the mechanisms of molecular biology mediated by certain miRNAs, discussing the benefits, challenges, and future prospects in ICH treatment. We hope comprehensive understanding of exosomes based on miRNAs will provide new insights into the treatment of ICH and guide the translation of exosome's research from laboratory to clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shandong Jiang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Precise Treatment and Clinical Translational Research of Neurological Diseases, Hangzhou, 310016, People's Republic of China
| | - Libin Hu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Precise Treatment and Clinical Translational Research of Neurological Diseases, Hangzhou, 310016, People's Republic of China
| | - Hang Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Precise Treatment and Clinical Translational Research of Neurological Diseases, Hangzhou, 310016, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianan Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Precise Treatment and Clinical Translational Research of Neurological Diseases, Hangzhou, 310016, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiayin Zhou
- Department of Neurosurgery, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Precise Treatment and Clinical Translational Research of Neurological Diseases, Hangzhou, 310016, People's Republic of China
| | - Xian Yu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Precise Treatment and Clinical Translational Research of Neurological Diseases, Hangzhou, 310016, People's Republic of China
| | - Gao Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310016, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Precise Treatment and Clinical Translational Research of Neurological Diseases, Hangzhou, 310016, People's Republic of China
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Sezginer O, Unver N. Dissection of pro-tumoral macrophage subtypes and immunosuppressive cells participating in M2 polarization. Inflamm Res 2024; 73:1411-1423. [PMID: 38935134 PMCID: PMC11349836 DOI: 10.1007/s00011-024-01907-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2024] [Revised: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Alternatively activated macrophage (M2) polarization can result in one of four subtypes based on cytokines and signaling pathways associated with macrophage activation: M2a, M2b, M2c, and M2d macrophages. The majority of M2 subtypes are anti-inflammatory and pro-angiogenic, secreting growth factors (VEGF, PDGF) and matrix metalloproteinases (MMP2, MMP9) which boost tumor growth, metastasis, and invasion. M2-polarized macrophages are associated with immune suppressor cells harboring Myeloid derived suppressor cells, Regulatory T cells (Tregs), Regulatory B cells as well as alternatively activated (N2) neutrophils. Treg cells selectively support the metabolic stability, mitochondrial integrity, and survival rate of M2-like TAMs in an indirect environment. Also, the contribution of Breg cells influences macrophage polarization towards the M2 direction. TAM is activated when TAN levels in the tumor microenvironment are insufficient or vice versa, suggesting that macrophage and its polarization are fine-tuned. Understanding the functions of immune suppressive cells, mediators, and signaling pathways involved with M2 polarization will allow us to identify potential strategies for targeting the TAM repolarization phenotype for innovative immunotherapy approaches. In this review, we have highlighted the critical factors for M2 macrophage polarization, differential cytokine/chemokine profiles of M1 and M2 macrophage subtypes, and other immune cells' impact on the polarization within the immunosuppressive niche.
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Affiliation(s)
- Onurcan Sezginer
- Department of Basic Oncology, Cancer Institute, Hacettepe University, Sihhiye, Ankara, 06100, Türkiye
| | - Nese Unver
- Department of Basic Oncology, Cancer Institute, Hacettepe University, Sihhiye, Ankara, 06100, Türkiye.
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Zhang Y, Han G, Gu J, Chen Z, Wu J. Role of tumor-associated macrophages in hepatocellular carcinoma: impact, mechanism, and therapy. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1429812. [PMID: 39170620 PMCID: PMC11335564 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1429812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a highly frequent malignancy worldwide. The occurrence and progression of HCC is a complex process closely related to the polarization of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) in the tumor microenvironment (TME). The polarization of TAMs is affected by a variety of signaling pathways and surrounding cells. Evidence has shown that TAMs play a crucial role in HCC, through its interaction with other immune cells in the TME. This review summarizes the origin and phenotypic polarization of TAMs, their potential impacts on HCC, and their mechanisms and potential targets for HCC immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinqi Zhang
- Hepatobiliary Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary Cancers, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Guoyong Han
- Hepatobiliary Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary Cancers, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jian Gu
- Hepatobiliary Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary Cancers, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhiqiang Chen
- Hepatobiliary Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary Cancers, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jindao Wu
- Hepatobiliary Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Key Laboratory of Liver Transplantation, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Hepatobiliary Cancers, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
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4
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Yin Y, Feng W, Chen J, Chen X, Wang G, Wang S, Xu X, Nie Y, Fan D, Wu K, Xia L. Immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment in the progression, metastasis, and therapy of hepatocellular carcinoma: from bench to bedside. Exp Hematol Oncol 2024; 13:72. [PMID: 39085965 PMCID: PMC11292955 DOI: 10.1186/s40164-024-00539-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a highly heterogeneous malignancy with high incidence, recurrence, and metastasis rates. The emergence of immunotherapy has improved the treatment of advanced HCC, but problems such as drug resistance and immune-related adverse events still exist in clinical practice. The immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) of HCC restricts the efficacy of immunotherapy and is essential for HCC progression and metastasis. Therefore, it is necessary to elucidate the mechanisms behind immunosuppressive TME to develop and apply immunotherapy. This review systematically summarizes the pathogenesis of HCC, the formation of the highly heterogeneous TME, and the mechanisms by which the immunosuppressive TME accelerates HCC progression and metastasis. We also review the status of HCC immunotherapy and further discuss the existing challenges and potential therapeutic strategies targeting immunosuppressive TME. We hope to inspire optimizing and innovating immunotherapeutic strategies by comprehensively understanding the structure and function of immunosuppressive TME in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Weibo Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Jie Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Xilang Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Guodong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Shuai Wang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, China
| | - Xiao Xu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Oncology and Intelligent Medicine of Zhejiang Province, Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310006, China
| | - Yongzhan Nie
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China.
| | - Daiming Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China.
| | - Kaichun Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China.
| | - Limin Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Holistic Integrative Management of Gastrointestinal Cancers and National Clinical Research Center for Digestive Diseases, Xijing Hospital of Digestive Diseases, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi Province, China.
- Department of Gastroenterology, Institute of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Hubei Key Laboratory of Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Diseases, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, Hubei Province, China.
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5
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Du G, Dou C, Sun P, Wang S, Liu J, Ma L. Regulatory T cells and immune escape in HCC: understanding the tumor microenvironment and advancing CAR-T cell therapy. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1431211. [PMID: 39136031 PMCID: PMC11317284 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1431211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Liver cancer, which most commonly manifests as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is the sixth most common cancer in the world. In HCC, the immune system plays a crucial role in the growth and proliferation of tumor cells. HCC achieve immune escape through the tumor microenvironment, which significantly promotes the development of this cancer. Here, this article introduces and summarizes the functions and effects of regulatory T cells (Tregs) in the tumor microenvironment, highlighting how Tregs inhibit and regulate the functions of immune and tumor cells, cytokines, ligands and receptors, etc, thereby promoting tumor immune escape. In addition, it discusses the mechanism of CAR-T therapy for HCC and elaborate on the relationship between CAR-T and Tregs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangtan Du
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
- Medical Department of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Cunmiao Dou
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
- Medical Department of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Peng Sun
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Shasha Wang
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Jia Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
- Qingdao Cancer Institute, Qingdao, China
| | - Leina Ma
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
- Qingdao Cancer Institute, Qingdao, China
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Li D, Zhang T, Guo Y, Bi C, Liu M, Wang G. Biological impact and therapeutic implication of tumor-associated macrophages in hepatocellular carcinoma. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:498. [PMID: 38997297 PMCID: PMC11245522 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-06888-z] [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: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 06/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024]
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment is a complex space comprised of normal, cancer and immune cells. The macrophages are considered as the most abundant immune cells in tumor microenvironment and their function in tumorigenesis is interesting. Macrophages can be present as M1 and M2 polarization that show anti-cancer and oncogenic activities, respectively. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) mainly have M2 polarization and they increase tumorigenesis due to secretion of factors, cytokines and affecting molecular pathways. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is among predominant tumors of liver that in spite of understanding its pathogenesis, the role of tumor microenvironment in its progression still requires more attention. The presence of TAMs in HCC causes an increase in growth and invasion of HCC cells and one of the reasons is induction of glycolysis that such metabolic reprogramming makes HCC distinct from normal cells and promotes its malignancy. Since M2 polarization of TAMs stimulates tumorigenesis in HCC, molecular networks regulating M2 to M1 conversion have been highlighted and moreover, drugs and compounds with the ability of targeting TAMs and suppressing their M2 phenotypes or at least their tumorigenesis activity have been utilized. TAMs increase aggressive behavior and biological functions of HCC cells that can result in development of therapy resistance. Macrophages can provide cell-cell communication in HCC by secreting exosomes having various types of biomolecules that transfer among cells and change their activity. Finally, non-coding RNA transcripts can mainly affect polarization of TAMs in HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deming Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110032, PR China
| | - Ting Zhang
- Department of Surgical Oncology and General Surgery, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, PR China
| | - Ye Guo
- Department of Intervention, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110032, PR China
| | - Cong Bi
- Department of Radiology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, PR China.
| | - Ming Liu
- Department of Oral Radiology, School of Stomatology, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, 110002, PR China.
| | - Gang Wang
- Department of Intervention, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110032, PR China.
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7
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Liu S, Dai W, Jin B, Jiang F, Huang H, Hou W, Lan J, Jin Y, Peng W, Pan J. Effects of super-enhancers in cancer metastasis: mechanisms and therapeutic targets. Mol Cancer 2024; 23:122. [PMID: 38844984 PMCID: PMC11157854 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-024-02033-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Metastasis remains the principal cause of cancer-related lethality despite advancements in cancer treatment. Dysfunctional epigenetic alterations are crucial in the metastatic cascade. Among these, super-enhancers (SEs), emerging as new epigenetic regulators, consist of large clusters of regulatory elements that drive the high-level expression of genes essential for the oncogenic process, upon which cancer cells develop a profound dependency. These SE-driven oncogenes play an important role in regulating various facets of metastasis, including the promotion of tumor proliferation in primary and distal metastatic organs, facilitating cellular migration and invasion into the vasculature, triggering epithelial-mesenchymal transition, enhancing cancer stem cell-like properties, circumventing immune detection, and adapting to the heterogeneity of metastatic niches. This heavy reliance on SE-mediated transcription delineates a vulnerable target for therapeutic intervention in cancer cells. In this article, we review current insights into the characteristics, identification methodologies, formation, and activation mechanisms of SEs. We also elaborate the oncogenic roles and regulatory functions of SEs in the context of cancer metastasis. Ultimately, we discuss the potential of SEs as novel therapeutic targets and their implications in clinical oncology, offering insights into future directions for innovative cancer treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shenglan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, Ministry of Education, Jiangxi Provincal Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, School of Pharmacy, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 314000, China
| | - Wei Dai
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, Ministry of Education, Jiangxi Provincal Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, School of Pharmacy, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 314000, China
| | - Bei Jin
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510060, China
| | - Feng Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, Ministry of Education, Jiangxi Provincal Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, School of Pharmacy, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 314000, China
| | - Hao Huang
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, Ministry of Education, Jiangxi Provincal Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, School of Pharmacy, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 314000, China
| | - Wen Hou
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, Ministry of Education, Jiangxi Provincal Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, School of Pharmacy, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 314000, China
| | - Jinxia Lan
- College of Public Health and Health Management, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 341000, China
| | - Yanli Jin
- College of Pharmacy, Jinan University Institute of Tumor Pharmacology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Weijie Peng
- Key Laboratory of Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases, Ministry of Education, Jiangxi Provincal Key Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, School of Pharmacy, Gannan Medical University, Ganzhou, 314000, China.
| | - Jingxuan Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510060, China.
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Muliawan GK, Lee TKW. The roles of cancer stem cell-derived secretory factors in shaping the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment in hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1400112. [PMID: 38868769 PMCID: PMC11167126 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1400112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most prevalent malignancies worldwide and has a poor prognosis. Although immune checkpoint inhibitors have entered a new era of HCC treatment, their response rates are modest, which can be attributed to the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment within HCC tumors. Accumulating evidence has shown that tumor growth is fueled by cancer stem cells (CSCs), which contribute to therapeutic resistance to the above treatments. Given that CSCs can regulate cellular and physical factors within the tumor niche by secreting various soluble factors in a paracrine manner, there have been increasing efforts toward understanding the roles of CSC-derived secretory factors in creating an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. In this review, we provide an update on how these secretory factors, including growth factors, cytokines, chemokines, and exosomes, contribute to the immunosuppressive TME, which leads to immune resistance. In addition, we present current therapeutic strategies targeting CSC-derived secretory factors and describe future perspectives. In summary, a better understanding of CSC biology in the TME provides a rational therapeutic basis for combination therapy with ICIs for effective HCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory Kenneth Muliawan
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Terence Kin-Wah Lee
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Lin Z, Xiao S, Qi Y, Guo J, Lu L. Tumor infiltrating B lymphocytes (TIBs) associate with poor clinical outcomes, unfavorable therapeutic benefit and immunosuppressive context in metastatic clear cell renal cell carcinoma (mccRCC) patients treated with anti-PD-1 antibody plus Axitinib. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2024; 150:262. [PMID: 38762825 PMCID: PMC11102881 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-024-05803-5] [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: 04/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) plus tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) has become first-line therapy for metastatic renal cell carcinoma patients. This study aims to investigate the effect of tumor infiltrating B lymphocytes (TIBs) on the combination therapy. METHODS The retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical records of 115 metastatic clear cell renal cell carcinoma (mccRCC) patients treated with anti-PD-1 antibody plus Axitinib between March 2020 and June 2023. Observation target: objective response rate (ORR), and overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS) and immune profile. RESULTS Patients with high TIBs portended lower ORR of the combination therapy (p = 0.033). TIBs was an independent predictor for poorer OS (p = 0.013) and PFS (p = 0.021) in mccRCC patients with combination treatment. TIBs infiltration was associated with more CD4+T (p < 0.001), CD8+T (p < 0.001), M2 macrophages (p = 0.020) and regulatory T cells (Tregs) (p = 0.004). In TIBs high patients, the percentages of PD-1, CTLA-4 and TIM-3 positive rate were significantly increased in CD4+T (p = 0.038, 0.029 and 0.002 respectively) and CD8+T cells (p = 0.006, 0.026 and < 0.001 respectively). CONCLUSIONS Our study revealed TIBs infiltration predicted adverse outcomes in mccRCC patients treated with anti-PD-1 antibody plus Axitinib. As a corollary, TIBs positively associated with M2 macrophages and Tregs, leading to subsequent multiple immune checkpoints related exhaustion of T cells. Thus, only PD-1 blockade are inadequate to reverse T cells exhaustion effectively in high TIBs mccRCC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyuan Lin
- Department of Urology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuxiu Xiao
- Clinical Center for Biotherapy, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Qi
- Department of Urology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianming Guo
- Department of Urology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lili Lu
- Clinical Center for Biotherapy, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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10
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Hashemi M, Daneii P, Asadalizadeh M, Tabari K, Matinahmadi A, Bidoki SS, Motlagh YSM, Jafari AM, Ghorbani A, Dehghanpour A, Nabavi N, Tan SC, Rashidi M, Taheriazam A, Entezari M, Goharrizi MASB. Epigenetic regulation of hepatocellular carcinoma progression: MicroRNAs as therapeutic, diagnostic and prognostic factors. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2024; 170:106566. [PMID: 38513802 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2024.106566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a significant challenge for public healthcare systems in developed Western countries including the USA, Canada, and the UK, is influenced by different risk factors including hepatitis virus infections, alcoholism, and smoking. The disruption in the balance of microRNAs (miRNAs) plays a vital function in tumorigenesis, given their function as regulators in numerous signaling networks. These miRNAs, which are mature and active in the cytoplasm, work by reducing the expression of target genes through their impact on mRNAs. MiRNAs are particularly significant in HCC as they regulate key aspects of the tumor, like proliferation and invasion. Additionally, during treatment phases such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy, the levels of miRNAs are key determinants. Pre-clinical experiments have demonstrated that altered miRNA expression contributes to HCC development, metastasis, drug resistance, and radio-resistance, highlighting related molecular pathways and processes like MMPs, EMT, apoptosis, and autophagy. Furthermore, the regulatory role of miRNAs in HCC extends beyond their immediate function, as they are also influenced by other epigenetic factors like lncRNAs and circular RNAs (circRNAs), as discussed in recent reviews. Applying these discoveries in predicting the prognosis of HCC could mark a significant advancement in the therapy of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehrdad Hashemi
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Pouria Daneii
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahya Asadalizadeh
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kiana Tabari
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Arash Matinahmadi
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Torun, Poland
| | - Seyed Shahabadin Bidoki
- Faculty of medicine, School of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | | | - Ali Moghadas Jafari
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amin Ghorbani
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Dehghanpour
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Noushin Nabavi
- Department of Urologic Sciences and Vancouver Prostate Centre, University of British Columbia, V6H3Z6, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Shing Cheng Tan
- UKM Medical Molecular Biology Institute, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Mohsen Rashidi
- Department Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran; The Health of Plant and Livestock Products Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.
| | - Afshin Taheriazam
- Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Department of Orthopedics, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Maliheh Entezari
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Farhikhtegan Medical Convergence Sciences Research Center, Farhikhtegan Hospital Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
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11
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Zhu Y, Tan H, Wang J, Zhuang H, Zhao H, Lu X. Molecular insight into T cell exhaustion in hepatocellular carcinoma. Pharmacol Res 2024; 203:107161. [PMID: 38554789 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma is one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality globally. The emergence of immunotherapy has been shown to be a promising therapeutic approach for hepatocellular carcinoma in recent years. It has been well known that T cell plays a key role in current immunotherapy. However, sustained exposure to antigenic stimulation within the tumor microenvironment may lead to T cell exhaustion, which may cause treatment ineffectiveness. Therefore, reversing T cell exhaustion has been an important issue for the clinical application of immunotherapy, and a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies surrounding T cell exhaustion and its underlying mechanisms is imperative for devising strategies to overcome the T cell exhaustion during treatment. In this review, we summarized the reported drivers of T cell exhaustion in hepatocellular carcinoma and delineate potential ways to reverse it. Additionally, we discussed the interplay among metabolic plasticity, epigenetic regulation, and transcriptional factors in exhausted T cells in hepatocellular carcinoma, and their implication for future clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yonghua Zhu
- Department of General Surgery, Liver Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Huabing Tan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hepatology Institute, Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei 442000, China; Shiyan Key Laboratory of Virology, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei Province 442000, China
| | - Jincheng Wang
- Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Hokkaido University, Japan
| | - Haiwen Zhuang
- Department of General Surgery, Liver Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Huanbin Zhao
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN 38105, USA.
| | - Xiaojie Lu
- Department of General Surgery, Liver Transplantation Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
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12
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Mahajan A, Hong J, Krukovets I, Shin J, Tkachenko S, Espinosa-Diez C, Owens GK, Cherepanova OA. Integrative analysis of the lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA interactions in smooth muscle cell phenotypic transitions. Front Genet 2024; 15:1356558. [PMID: 38660676 PMCID: PMC11039880 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2024.1356558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Objectives: We previously found that the pluripotency factor OCT4 is reactivated in smooth muscle cells (SMC) in human and mouse atherosclerotic plaques and plays an atheroprotective role. Loss of OCT4 in SMC in vitro was associated with decreases in SMC migration. However, molecular mechanisms responsible for atheroprotective SMC-OCT4-dependent effects remain unknown. Methods: Since studies in embryonic stem cells demonstrated that OCT4 regulates long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and microRNAs (miRNAs), making them candidates for OCT4 effect mediators, we applied an in vitro approach to investigate the interactions between OCT4-regulated lncRNAs, mRNAs, and miRNAs in SMC. We used OCT4 deficient mouse aortic SMC (MASMC) treated with the pro-atherogenic oxidized phospholipid POVPC, which, as we previously demonstrated, suppresses SMC contractile markers and induces SMC migration. Differential expression of lncRNAs, mRNAs, and miRNAs was obtained by lncRNA/mRNA expression array and small-RNA microarray. Long non-coding RNA to mRNA associations were predicted based on their genomic proximity and association with vascular diseases. Given a recently discovered crosstalk between miRNA and lncRNA, we also investigated the association of miRNAs with upregulated/downregulated lncRNA-mRNA pairs. Results: POVPC treatment in SMC resulted in upregulating genes related to the axon guidance and focal adhesion pathways. Knockdown of Oct4 resulted in differential regulation of pathways associated with phagocytosis. Importantly, these results were consistent with our data showing that OCT4 deficiency attenuated POVPC-induced SMC migration and led to increased phagocytosis. Next, we identified several up- or downregulated lncRNA associated with upregulation of the specific mRNA unique for the OCT4 deficient SMC, including upregulation of ENSMUST00000140952-Hoxb5/6 and ENSMUST00000155531-Zfp652 along with downregulation of ENSMUST00000173605-Parp9 and, ENSMUST00000137236-Zmym1. Finally, we found that many of the downregulated miRNAs were associated with cell migration, including miR-196a-1 and miR-10a, targets of upregulated ENSMUST00000140952, and miR-155 and miR-122, targets of upregulated ENSMUST00000155531. Oppositely, the upregulated miRNAs were anti-migratory and pro-phagocytic, such as miR-10a/b and miR-15a/b, targets of downregulated ENSMUST00000173605, and miR-146a/b and miR-15b targets of ENSMUST00000137236. Conclusion: Our integrative analyses of the lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA interactions in SMC indicated novel potential OCT4-dependent mechanisms that may play a role in SMC phenotypic transitions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aatish Mahajan
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Junyoung Hong
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Irene Krukovets
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Junchul Shin
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Svyatoslav Tkachenko
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Cristina Espinosa-Diez
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, United States
| | - Gary K. Owens
- Robert M. Berne Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Olga A. Cherepanova
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, United States
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13
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Wang T, Jin Y, Wang M, Chen B, Sun J, Zhang J, Yang H, Deng X, Cao X, Wang L, Tang Y. SALL4 in gastrointestinal tract cancers: upstream and downstream regulatory mechanisms. Mol Med 2024; 30:46. [PMID: 38584262 PMCID: PMC11000312 DOI: 10.1186/s10020-024-00812-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Effective therapeutic targets and early diagnosis are major challenges in the treatment of gastrointestinal tract (GIT) cancers. SALL4 is a well-known transcription factor that is involved in organogenesis during embryonic development. Previous studies have revealed that SALL4 regulates cell proliferation, survival, and migration and maintains stem cell function in mature cells. Additionally, SALL4 overexpression is associated with tumorigenesis. Despite its characterization as a biomarker in various cancers, the role of SALL4 in GIT cancers and the underlying mechanisms are unclear. We describe the functions of SALL4 in GIT cancers and discuss its upstream/downstream genes and pathways associated with each cancer. We also consider the possibility of targeting these genes or pathways as potential therapeutic options for GIT cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tairan Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Yan Jin
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Mengyao Wang
- First Clinical Medical College, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Boya Chen
- First Clinical Medical College, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Jinyu Sun
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Jiaying Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Hui Yang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Xinyao Deng
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Xingyue Cao
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Lidong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment and Henan Key, Laboratory for Esophageal Cancer Research of The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
| | - Yuanyuan Tang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China.
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14
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Augello G, Cusimano A, Cervello M, Cusimano A. Extracellular Vesicle-Related Non-Coding RNAs in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: An Overview. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:1415. [PMID: 38611093 PMCID: PMC11011022 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16071415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2023] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary liver cancer. It is a major public health problem worldwide, and it is often diagnosed at advanced stages, when no effective treatment options are available. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are nanosized double-layer lipid vesicles containing various biomolecule cargoes, such as lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. EVs are released from nearly all types of cells and have been shown to play an important role in cell-to-cell communication. In recent years, many studies have investigated the role of EVs in cancer, including HCC. Emerging studies have shown that EVs play primary roles in the development and progression of cancer, modulating tumor growth and metastasis formation. Moreover, it has been observed that non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) carried by tumor cell-derived EVs promote tumorigenesis, regulating the tumor microenvironment (TME) and playing critical roles in the progression, angiogenesis, metastasis, immune escape, and drug resistance of HCC. EV-related ncRNAs can provide information regarding disease status, thus encompassing a role as biomarkers. In this review, we discuss the main roles of ncRNAs present in HCC-derived EVs, including micro(mi) RNAs, long non-coding (lnc) RNAs, and circular (circ) RNAs, and their potential clinical value as biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppa Augello
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council (CNR), 90146 Palermo, Italy; (A.C.); (M.C.)
| | - Alessandra Cusimano
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council (CNR), 90146 Palermo, Italy; (A.C.); (M.C.)
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Science and Technology (STEBICEF), University of Palermo, 90128 Palermo, Italy
| | - Melchiorre Cervello
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council (CNR), 90146 Palermo, Italy; (A.C.); (M.C.)
| | - Antonella Cusimano
- Institute for Biomedical Research and Innovation, National Research Council (CNR), 90146 Palermo, Italy; (A.C.); (M.C.)
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15
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Ai JH, Wen YZ, Dai SJ, Zhang LD, Huang ZJ, Shi J. Exosomal lncRNA HEIH, an essential communicator for hepatocellular carcinoma cells and macrophage M2 polarization through the miR-98-5p/STAT3 axis. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2024; 38:e23686. [PMID: 38549433 DOI: 10.1002/jbt.23686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Part of human long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) has been elucidated to play an essential role in the carcinogenesis and progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a type of malignant tumor with poor outcomes. Tumor-derived exosomes harboring lncRNAs have also been implicated as crucial mediators to orchestrate biological functions among neighbor tumor cells. The recruitment of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) exerting M2-like phenotype usually indicates the poor prognosis. Yet, the precise involvement of tumor-derived lncRNAs in cross-talk with environmental macrophages has not been fully identified. In this study, we reported the aberrantly overexpressed HCC upregulated EZH2-associated lncRNA (HEIH) in tumor tissues and cell lines was positively correlated with poor prognosis, as well as enriched exosomal HEIH levels in blood plasma and cell supernatants. Besides, HCC cell-derived exosomes transported HEIH into macrophages for triggering macrophage M2 polarization, thereby in turn promoting the proliferation, migration, and invasion of HCC cells. Mechanistically, HEIH acted as a miRNA sponge for miR-98-5p to up-regulate STAT3, which was then further verified in the tumor xenograft models. Collectively, our study provides the evidence for recognizing tumor-derived exosomal lncRNA HEIH as a novel regulatory function through targeting miR-98-5p/STAT3 axis in environmental macrophages, which may shed light on the complicated tumor microenvironment among tumor and immune cells for HCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Hua Ai
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, P.R.China
| | - Yu-Zhong Wen
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, P.R.China
| | - Shi-Jie Dai
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, P.R.China
| | - Li-Dong Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, P.R.China
| | - Zhong-Jing Huang
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, P.R.China
| | - Jun Shi
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, P.R.China
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16
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Huang Q, Zhong X, Li J, Hu R, Yi J, Sun J, Xu Y, Zhou X. Exosomal ncRNAs: Multifunctional contributors to the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment of hepatocellular carcinoma. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 173:116409. [PMID: 38460375 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116409] [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: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a malignant liver cancer characterized by aggressive progression, unfavorable prognosis, and an increasing global health burden. Therapies that precisely target immunological checkpoints and immune cells have gained significant attention as possible therapeutics in recent years. In truth, the efficacy of immunotherapy is heavily contingent upon the tumor microenvironment (TME). Recent studies have indicated that exosomes serve as a sophisticated means of communication among biomolecules, executing an essential part in the TME of immune suppression. Exosomal non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) can induce the activation of tumor cells and immunosuppressive immune cells that suppress the immune system, such as cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), tumor-associated neutrophils (TANs), CD+8 T cells, regulatory T cells (Tregs), and regulatory B cells (Bregs). This cell-cell crosstalk triggered by exosomal ncRNAs promotes tumor proliferation and metastasis, angiogenesis, malignant phenotype transformation, and drug resistance. Hence, it is imperative to comprehend how exosomal ncRNAs regulate tumor cells or immune cells within the TME to devise more comprehensive and productive immunotherapy programs. This study discusses the features of exosomal ncRNAs in HCC and how the activation of the exosomes redefines the tumor's immunosuppressive microenvironment, hence facilitating the advancement of HCC. Furthermore, we also explored the potential of exosomal ncRNAs as a viable biological target or natural vehicle for HCC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Huang
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macao PR China; Department of Liver Disease, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China; Department of Liver Disease, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Xin Zhong
- Department of Liver Disease, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China; Department of Liver Disease, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Jing Li
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macao PR China; Department of Liver Disease, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China; Department of Liver Disease, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Rui Hu
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macao PR China; Department of Liver Disease, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China; Department of Liver Disease, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Jinyu Yi
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macao PR China; Department of Liver Disease, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China; Department of Liver Disease, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Jialing Sun
- Department of Liver Disease, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China; Department of Liver Disease, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Youhua Xu
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macao PR China.
| | - Xiaozhou Zhou
- Department of Liver Disease, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, PR China; Department of Liver Disease, The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, PR China.
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17
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Otmani K, Rouas R, Berehab M, Lewalle P. The regulatory mechanisms of oncomiRs in cancer. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 171:116165. [PMID: 38237348 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116165] [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: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer development is a complex process that primarily results from the combination of genetic alterations and the dysregulation of major signalling pathways due to interference with the epigenetic machinery. As major epigenetic regulators, miRNAs are central players in the control of many key tumour development factors. These miRNAs have been classified as oncogenic miRNAs (oncomiRs) when they target tumour suppressor genes and tumour suppressor miRNAs (TS miRNAs) when they inhibit oncogene protein expression. Most of the mechanisms that modulate oncomiR expression are linked to transcriptional or posttranscriptional regulation. However, non-transcriptional processes, such as gene amplification, have been described as alternative processes that are responsible for increasing oncomiR expression. The current review summarises the different mechanisms controlling the upregulation of oncomiR expression in cancer cells and the tumour microenvironment (TME). Detailed knowledge of the mechanism underlying the regulation of oncomiR expression in cancer may pave the way for understanding the critical role of oncomiRs in cancer development and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khalid Otmani
- Hematology Laboratory, Hematology Department, Hôpital Universitaire de Bruxelles (H.U.B.) Institut Jules Bordet, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Redouane Rouas
- Hematology Laboratory, Hematology Department, Hôpital Universitaire de Bruxelles (H.U.B.) Institut Jules Bordet, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Mimoune Berehab
- Hematology Laboratory, Hematology Department, Hôpital Universitaire de Bruxelles (H.U.B.) Institut Jules Bordet, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Philippe Lewalle
- Hematology Laboratory, Hematology Department, Hôpital Universitaire de Bruxelles (H.U.B.) Institut Jules Bordet, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium.
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18
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Liu Q, Yan X, Li R, Yuan Y, Wang J, Zhao Y, Fu J, Su J. Polyamine Signal through HCC Microenvironment: A Key Regulator of Mitochondrial Preservation and Turnover in TAMs. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:996. [PMID: 38256070 PMCID: PMC10816144 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25020996] [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: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary liver cancer, and, with increasing research on the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME), the immunosuppressive micro-environment of HCC hampers further application of immunotherapy, even though immunotherapy can provide survival benefits to patients with advanced liver cancer. Current studies suggest that polyamine metabolism is not only a key metabolic pathway for the formation of immunosuppressive phenotypes in tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), but it is also profoundly involved in mitochondrial quality control signaling and the energy metabolism regulation process, so it is particularly important to further investigate the role of polyamine metabolism in the tumor microenvironment (TME). In this review, by summarizing the current research progress of key enzymes and substrates of the polyamine metabolic pathway in regulating TAMs and T cells, we propose that polyamine biosynthesis can intervene in the process of mitochondrial energy metabolism by affecting mitochondrial autophagy, which, in turn, regulates macrophage polarization and T cell differentiation. Polyamine metabolism may be a key target for the interactive dialog between HCC cells and immune cells such as TAMs, so interfering with polyamine metabolism may become an important entry point to break intercellular communication, providing new research space for developing polyamine metabolism-based therapy for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Jing Su
- Key Laboratory of Pathobiology, Department of Pathophysiology, Ministry of Education, College of Basical Medical Sciences, Jilin University, 126 Xinmin Street, Changchun 130012, China; (Q.L.); (X.Y.); (R.L.); (Y.Y.); (J.W.); (Y.Z.); (J.F.)
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19
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Ahmadi M, Abbasi R, Rezaie J. Tumor immune escape: extracellular vesicles roles and therapeutics application. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:9. [PMID: 38167133 PMCID: PMC10763406 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01370-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immune escape, a process by which tumor cells evade immune surveillance, remains a challenge for cancer therapy. Tumor cells produce extracellular vesicles (EVs) that participate in immune escape by transferring bioactive molecules between cells. EVs refer to heterogeneous vesicles that participate in intercellular communication. EVs from tumor cells usually carry tumor antigens and have been considered a source of tumor antigens to induce anti-tumor immunity. However, evidence also suggests that these EVs can accelerate immune escape by carrying heat shock proteins (HSPs), programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), etc. to immune cells, suppressing function and exhausting the immune cells pool. EVs are progressively being evaluated for therapeutic implementation in cancer therapies. EVs-based immunotherapies involve inhibiting EVs generation, using natural EVs, and harnessing engineering EVs. All approaches are associated with advantages and disadvantages. The EVs heterogeneity and diverse physicochemical properties are the main challenges to their clinical applications. SHORT CONCLUSION Although EVs are criminal; they can be useful for overcoming immune escape. This review discusses the latest knowledge on EVs population and sheds light on the function of tumor-derived EVs in immune escape. It also describes EVs-based immunotherapies with a focus on engineered EVs, followed by challenges that hinder the clinical translation of EVs that are essential to be addressed in future investigations. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahdi Ahmadi
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Reza Abbasi
- Department of Biology, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran
| | - Jafar Rezaie
- Solid Tumor Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
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20
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Sotty J, Bablon P, Weiss PH, Soussan P. Diethylnitrosamine Induction of Hepatocarcinogenesis in Mice. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2769:15-25. [PMID: 38315386 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3694-7_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Diethylnitrosamine (DEN) is a chemical hepatocarcinogenic agent that triggers a large array of oncogenic mutations after a single injection. Initiated hepatocytes subsequently undergo clonal expansion within a proliferative environment, rendering the DEN model a comprehensive carcinogen. In rodent studies, DEN finds extensive utility in experimental liver cancer research, mimicking several aspects of human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), including angiogenesis, metabolic reprogramming, immune exhaustion, and the ability to metastasize. Beyond the wealth of scientific insights gleaned from this model, the objective of this chapter is to review morphological, genomic, and immunological characteristics associated to DEN-induced HCC. Furthermore, this chapter provides a detailed procedural guide to effectively induce hepatocarcinogenesis in mice through a single intraperitoneal injection of DEN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jules Sotty
- Sorbonne Université, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Centre de Recherche de Saint Antoine (CRSA), Paris, France
| | - Pierre Bablon
- Sorbonne Université, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Centre de Recherche de Saint Antoine (CRSA), Paris, France
| | - Paul-Henry Weiss
- Sorbonne Université, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Centre de Recherche de Saint Antoine (CRSA), Paris, France
| | - Patrick Soussan
- Sorbonne Université, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Centre de Recherche de Saint Antoine (CRSA), Paris, France.
- Département de Virologie, Assistance Publique - Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), Sorbonne Université, GHU Paris-Est, Paris, France.
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21
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Liu J, Park K, Shen Z, Lee H, Geetha P, Pakyari M, Chai L. Immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and their cross talks in hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1285370. [PMID: 38173713 PMCID: PMC10762788 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1285370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a challenging malignancy with limited treatment options beyond surgery and chemotherapy. Recent advancements in targeted therapies and immunotherapy, including PD-1 and PD-L1 monoclonal antibodies, have shown promise, but their efficacy has not met expectations. Biomarker testing and personalized medicine based on genetic mutations and other biomarkers represent the future direction for HCC treatment. To address these challenges and opportunities, this comprehensive review discusses the progress made in targeted therapies and immunotherapies for HCC, focusing on dissecting the rationales, opportunities, and challenges for combining these modalities. The liver's unique physiology and the presence of fibrosis in many HCC patients pose additional challenges to drug delivery and efficacy. Ongoing efforts in biomarker development and combination therapy design, especially in the context of immunotherapies, hold promise for improving outcomes in advanced HCC. Through exploring the advancements in biomarkers and targeted therapies, this review provides insights into the challenges and opportunities in the field and proposes strategies for rational combination therapy design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Liu
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Kevin Park
- Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Ziyang Shen
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Hannah Lee
- University of California, San Diego, CA, United States
| | | | - Mohammadreza Pakyari
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Li Chai
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
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22
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Asleh K, Dery V, Taylor C, Davey M, Djeungoue-Petga MA, Ouellette RJ. Extracellular vesicle-based liquid biopsy biomarkers and their application in precision immuno-oncology. Biomark Res 2023; 11:99. [PMID: 37978566 PMCID: PMC10655470 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-023-00540-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
While the field of precision oncology is rapidly expanding and more targeted options are revolutionizing cancer treatment paradigms, therapeutic resistance particularly to immunotherapy remains a pressing challenge. This can be largely attributed to the dynamic tumor-stroma interactions that continuously alter the microenvironment. While to date most advancements have been made through examining the clinical utility of tissue-based biomarkers, their invasive nature and lack of a holistic representation of the evolving disease in a real-time manner could result in suboptimal treatment decisions. Thus, using minimally-invasive approaches to identify biomarkers that predict and monitor treatment response as well as alert to the emergence of recurrences is of a critical need. Currently, research efforts are shifting towards developing liquid biopsy-based biomarkers obtained from patients over the course of disease. Liquid biopsy represents a unique opportunity to monitor intercellular communication within the tumor microenvironment which could occur through the exchange of extracellular vesicles (EVs). EVs are lipid bilayer membrane nanoscale vesicles which transfer a plethora of biomolecules that mediate intercellular crosstalk, shape the tumor microenvironment, and modify drug response. The capture of EVs using innovative approaches, such as microfluidics, magnetic beads, and aptamers, allow their analysis via high throughput multi-omics techniques and facilitate their use for biomarker discovery. Artificial intelligence, using machine and deep learning algorithms, is advancing multi-omics analyses to uncover candidate biomarkers and predictive signatures that are key for translation into clinical trials. With the increasing recognition of the role of EVs in mediating immune evasion and as a valuable biomarker source, these real-time snapshots of cellular communication are promising to become an important tool in the field of precision oncology and spur the recognition of strategies to block resistance to immunotherapy. In this review, we discuss the emerging role of EVs in biomarker research describing current advances in their isolation and analysis techniques as well as their function as mediators in the tumor microenvironment. We also highlight recent lung cancer and melanoma studies that point towards their application as predictive biomarkers for immunotherapy and their potential clinical use in precision immuno-oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karama Asleh
- Atlantic Cancer Research Institute, Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada.
| | - Valerie Dery
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Université de Moncton, Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada
| | - Catherine Taylor
- Atlantic Cancer Research Institute, Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada
| | - Michelle Davey
- Atlantic Cancer Research Institute, Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada
| | | | - Rodney J Ouellette
- Atlantic Cancer Research Institute, Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Université de Moncton, Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada
- Dr Georges L. Dumont University Hospital, Vitalite Health Network, Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada
- Beatrice Hunter Cancer Research Institute, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
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23
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Basak U, Sarkar T, Mukherjee S, Chakraborty S, Dutta A, Dutta S, Nayak D, Kaushik S, Das T, Sa G. Tumor-associated macrophages: an effective player of the tumor microenvironment. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1295257. [PMID: 38035101 PMCID: PMC10687432 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1295257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer progression is primarily caused by interactions between transformed cells and the components of the tumor microenvironment (TME). TAMs (tumor-associated macrophages) make up the majority of the invading immune components, which are further categorized as anti-tumor M1 and pro-tumor M2 subtypes. While M1 is known to have anti-cancer properties, M2 is recognized to extend a protective role to the tumor. As a result, the tumor manipulates the TME in such a way that it induces macrophage infiltration and M1 to M2 switching bias to secure its survival. This M2-TAM bias in the TME promotes cancer cell proliferation, neoangiogenesis, lymphangiogenesis, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, matrix remodeling for metastatic support, and TME manipulation to an immunosuppressive state. TAMs additionally promote the emergence of cancer stem cells (CSCs), which are known for their ability to originate, metastasize, and relapse into tumors. CSCs also help M2-TAM by revealing immune escape and survival strategies during the initiation and relapse phases. This review describes the reasons for immunotherapy failure and, thereby, devises better strategies to impair the tumor-TAM crosstalk. This study will shed light on the understudied TAM-mediated tumor progression and address the much-needed holistic approach to anti-cancer therapy, which encompasses targeting cancer cells, CSCs, and TAMs all at the same time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Udit Basak
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Bose Institute, Kolkata, India
| | - Tania Sarkar
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Bose Institute, Kolkata, India
| | - Sumon Mukherjee
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Bose Institute, Kolkata, India
| | | | - Apratim Dutta
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Bose Institute, Kolkata, India
| | - Saikat Dutta
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Bose Institute, Kolkata, India
| | - Debadatta Nayak
- Central Council for Research in Homeopathy (CCRH), New Delhi, India
| | - Subhash Kaushik
- Central Council for Research in Homeopathy (CCRH), New Delhi, India
| | - Tanya Das
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Bose Institute, Kolkata, India
| | - Gaurisankar Sa
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Bose Institute, Kolkata, India
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24
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Ding M, Zhang C, Wang W, Wang P, Pei Y, Wang N, Huang S, Hao C, Yao W. Silica-exposed macrophages-secreted exosomal miR125a-5p induces Th1/Th2 and Treg/Th17 cell imbalance and promotes fibroblast transdifferentiation. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 267:115647. [PMID: 37918332 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
Until now, the specific pathogenesis of silicosis is not clear. Exosomal miRNAs, as a newly discovered intercellular communication medium, play an important role in many diseases. Our previous research found that serum exosomal miR125a-5p was increased in silicosis patients by miRNAs high-throughput sequencing. TRAF6, is a target gene of miR125a-5p, which is involved in T-cell differentiation. Furthermore, results from animal study indicate that knockdown of miR-125a-5p can regulate T lymphocyte subsets and significantly reduce pulmonary fibrosis by targeting TRAF6. However, the level of serum exosomal miR125a-5p in silicosis patients has not been reported, the role of macrophages-secreted exosomal miR-125a-5p in regulating T cell differentiation to promote fibroblast transdifferentiation (FMT) remains unknown. In this study, the levels of serum exosomal miR125a-5p and serum TGF-β1, IL-17A, IL-4 cytokines in silicosis patients were elevated, with the progression of silicosis, the level of serum exosomal miR125a-5p and serum IL-4 were increased; thus, the serum level of IFN-γ was negatively correlated with the progression of silicosis. In vitro, the levels of miR125a-5p in macrophages, exosomes, and T cells stimulated by silica were significantly increased. When the mimic was transfected into T cells, which directly suppressed TRAF6 and caused the imbalance of T cells differentiation, induced FMT. To sum up, these results indicate that exosomal miR-125a-5p may by targeting TRAF6 of T cells, induces the activation and apoptosis of T cells and the remodeling of Th1/Th2 and Th17/Tregs distribution, ultimately promotes FMT. Suggesting that exosomal miR-125a-5p may be a potential therapeutic target for silicosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingcui Ding
- Department of Nosocomial Infection Control, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450003, Henan, China
| | - Chengpeng Zhang
- Department of Occupational Health and Occupational Disease, School of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Occupational Health and Occupational Disease, School of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan, China
| | - Pengpeng Wang
- Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yangqing Pei
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan, China
| | - Na Wang
- Department of Occupational Health and Occupational Disease, School of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan, China
| | - Shan Huang
- Henan Institute of Food and Salt Industry Inspection Technology, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan, China
| | - Changfu Hao
- Department of child and Adolecence health, School of public health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan, China.
| | - Wu Yao
- Department of Occupational Health and Occupational Disease, School of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan, China.
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25
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Agirre-Lizaso A, Huici-Izagirre M, Urretabizkaia-Garmendia J, Rodrigues PM, Banales JM, Perugorria MJ. Targeting the Heterogeneous Tumour-Associated Macrophages in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4977. [PMID: 37894344 PMCID: PMC10605535 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15204977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a prevalent and aggressive cancer that comprises a complex tumour microenvironment (TME). Tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs) are one of the most abundant immune cells present in the TME, and play a key role both in the development and in the progression of HCC. Thus, TAM-based immunotherapy has been presented as a promising strategy to complement the currently available therapies for HCC treatment. Among the novel approaches focusing on TAMs, reprogramming their functional state has emerged as a promising option for targeting TAMs as an immunotherapy in combination with the currently available treatment options. Nevertheless, a further understanding of the immunobiology of TAMs is still required. This review synthesizes current insights into the heterogeneous nature of TAMs in HCC and describes the mechanisms behind their pro-tumoural polarization focusing the attention on their interaction with HCC cells. Furthermore, this review underscores the potential involvement of TAMs' reprogramming in HCC therapy and highlights the urgency of advancing our understanding of these cells within the dynamic landscape of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aloña Agirre-Lizaso
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV-EHU), 20014 Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain; (A.A.-L.); (M.H.-I.); (J.U.-G.); (P.M.R.); (J.M.B.)
| | - Maider Huici-Izagirre
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV-EHU), 20014 Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain; (A.A.-L.); (M.H.-I.); (J.U.-G.); (P.M.R.); (J.M.B.)
| | - Josu Urretabizkaia-Garmendia
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV-EHU), 20014 Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain; (A.A.-L.); (M.H.-I.); (J.U.-G.); (P.M.R.); (J.M.B.)
| | - Pedro M. Rodrigues
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV-EHU), 20014 Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain; (A.A.-L.); (M.H.-I.); (J.U.-G.); (P.M.R.); (J.M.B.)
- Centre for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, 48009 Bilbao, Spain
| | - Jesus M. Banales
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV-EHU), 20014 Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain; (A.A.-L.); (M.H.-I.); (J.U.-G.); (P.M.R.); (J.M.B.)
- Centre for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, 48009 Bilbao, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, School of Sciences, University of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Maria J. Perugorria
- Department of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases, Biodonostia Research Institute, Donostia University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV-EHU), 20014 Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain; (A.A.-L.); (M.H.-I.); (J.U.-G.); (P.M.R.); (J.M.B.)
- Centre for the Study of Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), 20014 Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain
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26
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Hao L, Li S, Hu X. New insights into T-cell exhaustion in liver cancer: from mechanism to therapy. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2023; 149:12543-12560. [PMID: 37423958 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-023-05083-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
Liver cancer is one of the most common malignancies. T-cell exhaustion is associated with immunosuppression of tumor and chronic infection. Although immunotherapies that enhance the immune response by targeting programmed cell death-1(PD-1)/programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) have been applied to malignancies, these treatments have shown limited response rates. This suggested that additional inhibitory receptors (IRs) also contributed to T-cell exhaustion and tumor prognosis. Exhausted T-cells (Tex) in the tumor immune microenvironment (TME) are usually in a dysfunctional state of exhaustion, such as impaired activity and proliferative ability, increased apoptosis rate, and reduced production of effector cytokines. Tex cells participate in the negative regulation of tumor immunity mainly through IRs on the cell surface, changes in cytokines and immunomodulatory cell types, causing tumor immune escape. However, T-cell exhaustion is not irreversible and targeted immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) can effectively reverse the exhaustion of T-cells and restore the anti-tumor immune response. Therefore, the research on the mechanism of T-cell exhaustion in liver cancer, aimed at maintaining or restoring the effector function of Tex cells, might provide a new method for the treatment of liver cancer. In this review, we summarized the basic characteristics of Tex cells (such as IRs and cytokines), discussed the mechanisms associated with T-cell exhaustion, and specifically discussed how these exhaustion characteristics were acquired and shaped by key factors within TME. Then new insights into the molecular mechanism of T-cell exhaustion suggested a potential way to improve the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy, namely to restore the effector function of Tex cells. In addition, we also reviewed the research progress of T-cell exhaustion in recent years and provided suggestions for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liyuan Hao
- Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 37 Shi-Er-Qiao Road, Chengdu, 610075, Sichuan Province, People's Republic of China
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 39 Shi-Er-Qiao Road, Chengdu, 610072, Sichuan Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Shenghao Li
- Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 37 Shi-Er-Qiao Road, Chengdu, 610075, Sichuan Province, People's Republic of China
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 39 Shi-Er-Qiao Road, Chengdu, 610072, Sichuan Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoyu Hu
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 39 Shi-Er-Qiao Road, Chengdu, 610072, Sichuan Province, People's Republic of China.
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27
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Yousef EH, El-Magd NFA, El Gayar AM. Norcantharidin potentiates sorafenib antitumor activity in hepatocellular carcinoma rat model through inhibiting IL-6/STAT3 pathway. Transl Res 2023; 260:69-82. [PMID: 37257560 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2023.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
In hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), sorafenib (Sora) efficacy is limited by primary and/or acquired resistance. Emerging evidence shows that the inflammatory factor interleukin 6 (IL-6) plays a role in Sora resistance. Norcantharidin (NCTD), a derivative of cantharidine, was identified as a potent IL-6 inhibitor. Thus, in this study, we evaluated NCTD ability to improve the Sora efficacy in HCC and its underlying molecular mechanisms. Male Sprague Dawely rats were administered NCTD (0.1 mg/kg/day; orally) or Sora (10 mg/kg day; orally) or combination for 6 weeks after HCC induction using thioacetamide (200 mg/kg; ip; 2 times/wk) for 16 weeks. Our results showed that NCTD greatly enhanced Sora activity against HCC and potentiated Sora-induced oxidative stress. NCTD enhanced Sora-induced tumor immunity reactivation by decreasing both fibrinogen-like protein 1 level and increasing both tumor necrosis factor-α gene expression along with CD8+ T cells number. Also, NCTD augmented Sora attenuation activity against TAA-induced angiogenesis and metastasis by decreasing VEGFA, HIF-1α, serum lactate dehydrogenase enzyme, and vimentin levels. The combined use of NCTD/Sora suppressed drug resistance and stemness by downregulating ATP-binding cassette subfamily G member 2, neurogenic locus notch homolog protein, spalt-like transcription factor 4, and CD133. NCTD boosted Sora antiproliferative and apoptotic activities by decreasing Ccnd1 and BCL2 expressions along with increasing BAX and caspase-3 expressions. To our knowledge, this study represents the first study providing evidence for the potential novel therapeutic use of NCTD/Sora combination for HCC. Moreover, no previous studies have reported the effect of NCTD on FGL1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eman H Yousef
- Biochemistry department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt; Biochemistry department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Horus University-Egypt, Damietta, Egypt.
| | - Nada F Abo El-Magd
- Biochemistry department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Amal M El Gayar
- Biochemistry department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt.
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28
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Zeng Y, Hu S, Luo Y, He K. Exosome Cargos as Biomarkers for Diagnosis and Prognosis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2365. [PMID: 37765333 PMCID: PMC10537613 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15092365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common cancers worldwide. Due to the insidiousness of HCC onset and the lack of specific early-stage markers, the early diagnosis and treatment of HCC are still unsatisfactory, leading to a poor prognosis. Exosomes are a type of extracellular vesicle containing various components, which play an essential part in the development, progression, and metastasis of HCC. A large number of studies have demonstrated that exosomes could serve as novel biomarkers for the diagnosis of HCC. These diagnostic components mainly include proteins, microRNAs, long noncoding RNAs, and circular RNAs. The exosome biomarkers showed high sensitivity and high specificity in distinguishing HCC from health controls and other liver diseases, such as chronic HBV and liver cirrhosis. The expression of these biomarkers also exhibits correlations with various clinical factors such as tumor size, TMN stage, overall survival, and recurrence rate. In this review, we summarize the function of exosomes in the development of HCC and highlight their application as HCC biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis prediction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulai Zeng
- Department of Liver Surgery, School of Medicine, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China; (Y.Z.); (S.H.)
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Transplantation and Immunology, Shanghai 200127, China
- Shanghai Institute of Transplantation, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Shuyu Hu
- Department of Liver Surgery, School of Medicine, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China; (Y.Z.); (S.H.)
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Transplantation and Immunology, Shanghai 200127, China
- Shanghai Institute of Transplantation, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Yi Luo
- Department of Liver Surgery, School of Medicine, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China; (Y.Z.); (S.H.)
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Transplantation and Immunology, Shanghai 200127, China
- Shanghai Institute of Transplantation, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Kang He
- Department of Liver Surgery, School of Medicine, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200127, China; (Y.Z.); (S.H.)
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Transplantation and Immunology, Shanghai 200127, China
- Shanghai Institute of Transplantation, Shanghai 200127, China
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29
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Bartkeviciene A, Jasukaitiene A, Zievyte I, Stukas D, Ivanauskiene S, Urboniene D, Maimets T, Jaudzems K, Vitkauskiene A, Matthews J, Dambrauskas Z, Gulbinas A. Association between AHR Expression and Immune Dysregulation in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: Insights from Comprehensive Immune Profiling of Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4639. [PMID: 37760608 PMCID: PMC10526859 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15184639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer, particularly pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), has an immune suppressive environment that allows tumour cells to evade the immune system. The aryl-hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) is a transcription factor that can be activated by certain exo/endo ligands, including kynurenine (KYN) and other tryptophan metabolites. Once activated, AHR regulates the expression of various genes involved in immune responses and inflammation. Previous studies have shown that AHR activation in PDAC can have both pro-tumorigenic and anti-tumorigenic effects, depending on the context. It can promote tumour growth and immune evasion by suppressing anti-tumour immune responses or induce anti-tumour effects by enhancing immune cell function. In this study involving 30 PDAC patients and 30 healthy individuals, peripheral blood samples were analysed. PDAC patients were categorized into Low (12 patients) and High/Medium (18 patients) AHR groups based on gene expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). The Low AHR group showed distinct immune characteristics, including increased levels of immune-suppressive proteins such as PDL1, as well as alterations in lymphocyte and monocyte subtypes. Functional assays demonstrated changes in phagocytosis, nitric oxide production, and the expression of cytokines IL-1, IL-6, and IL-10. These findings indicate that AHR's expression level has a crucial role in immune dysregulation in PDAC and could be a potential target for early diagnostics and personalised therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arenida Bartkeviciene
- Laboratory of Surgical Gastroenterology, Institute for Digestive Research, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Eiveniu 4, 50103 Kaunas, Lithuania; (A.J.); (I.Z.); (D.S.); (S.I.); (Z.D.); (A.G.)
| | - Aldona Jasukaitiene
- Laboratory of Surgical Gastroenterology, Institute for Digestive Research, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Eiveniu 4, 50103 Kaunas, Lithuania; (A.J.); (I.Z.); (D.S.); (S.I.); (Z.D.); (A.G.)
| | - Inga Zievyte
- Laboratory of Surgical Gastroenterology, Institute for Digestive Research, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Eiveniu 4, 50103 Kaunas, Lithuania; (A.J.); (I.Z.); (D.S.); (S.I.); (Z.D.); (A.G.)
| | - Darius Stukas
- Laboratory of Surgical Gastroenterology, Institute for Digestive Research, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Eiveniu 4, 50103 Kaunas, Lithuania; (A.J.); (I.Z.); (D.S.); (S.I.); (Z.D.); (A.G.)
| | - Sandra Ivanauskiene
- Laboratory of Surgical Gastroenterology, Institute for Digestive Research, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Eiveniu 4, 50103 Kaunas, Lithuania; (A.J.); (I.Z.); (D.S.); (S.I.); (Z.D.); (A.G.)
| | - Daiva Urboniene
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Eiveniu 4, 50103 Kaunas, Lithuania; (D.U.); (A.V.)
| | - Toivo Maimets
- Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Tartu, Riia 23, 51010 Tartu, Estonia;
| | - Kristaps Jaudzems
- Department of Physical Organic Chemistry, Latvian Institute of Organic Synthesis, Aizkraukles 21, LV-1006 Riga, Latvia;
| | - Astra Vitkauskiene
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Eiveniu 4, 50103 Kaunas, Lithuania; (D.U.); (A.V.)
| | - Jason Matthews
- Department of Nutrition, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, 1046 Blindern, 0317 Oslo, Norway;
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Zilvinas Dambrauskas
- Laboratory of Surgical Gastroenterology, Institute for Digestive Research, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Eiveniu 4, 50103 Kaunas, Lithuania; (A.J.); (I.Z.); (D.S.); (S.I.); (Z.D.); (A.G.)
| | - Antanas Gulbinas
- Laboratory of Surgical Gastroenterology, Institute for Digestive Research, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Eiveniu 4, 50103 Kaunas, Lithuania; (A.J.); (I.Z.); (D.S.); (S.I.); (Z.D.); (A.G.)
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30
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Chen X, Li Y, Li M, Xie Y, Wang K, Zhang L, Zou Z, Xiong L. Exosomal miRNAs assist in the crosstalk between tumor cells and immune cells and its potential therapeutics. Life Sci 2023; 329:121934. [PMID: 37460057 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.121934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
Exosomes are small extracellular vesicles that carry active substances (including proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids) and are essential for homeostasis and signal transmission. Recent studies have focused on the function of exosomal miRNAs in tumor progression. Researchers have expanded the use of exosomes and miRNAs as potential therapeutic tools and biomarkers to detect tumor progression. Immune cells, as an important part of the tumor microenvironment (TME), secrete a majority of exosome-derived miRNAs involved in the biological processes of malignancies. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Currently, there is no literature that systematically summarizes the communication of exosome-derived miRNAs between tumor cells and immune cells. Based on the cell specificity of exosome-derived miRNAs, this review provides the first comprehensive summary of the significant miRNAs from the standpoint of exosome sources, which are tumor cells and immune cells. Furthermore, we elaborated on the potential clinical applications of these miRNAs, attempting to propose existing difficulties and future possibilities in tumor diagnostics and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyue Chen
- Department of Pathophysiology, Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China; Second Clinical Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Yuqiu Li
- Queen Mary College of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Miao Li
- Second Clinical Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Yujie Xie
- College of Pharmacy, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Keqin Wang
- First Clinical Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Lifang Zhang
- Department of Pathophysiology, Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Zhuoling Zou
- Queen Mary College of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Lixia Xiong
- Department of Pathophysiology, Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China.
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Xu HZ, Lin XY, Xu YX, Xue HB, Lin S, Xu TW. An emerging research: the role of hepatocellular carcinoma-derived exosomal circRNAs in the immune microenvironment. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1227150. [PMID: 37753074 PMCID: PMC10518420 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1227150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common primary malignancy of the liver, is one of the leading causes of cancer-related death and is associated with a poor prognosis. The tumor microenvironment (TME) of HCC comprises immune, immunosuppressive, and interstitial cells with hypoxic, angiogenic, metabolic reprogramming, inflammatory, and immunosuppressive features. Exosomes are nanoscale extracellular vesicles that secrete biologically active signaling molecules such as deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA), microribonucleic acid (miRNA), proteins, and lipids. These signaling molecules act as messengers in the tumor microenvironment, especially the tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment. Exosomal circRNAs reshape the tumor microenvironment by prompting hypoxic stress response, stimulating angiogenesis, contributing to metabolic reprogramming, facilitating inflammatory changes in the HCC cells and inducing tumor immunosuppression. The exosomes secreted by HCC cells carry circRNA into immune cells, which intervene in the activation of immune cells and promote the overexpression of immune checkpoints to regulate immune response, leading tumor cells to acquire immunosuppressive properties. Furthermore, immunosuppression is the final result of a combination of TME-related factors, including hypoxia, angiogenesis, metabolic reprogramming, and inflammation changes. In conclusion, exosomal circRNA accelerates the tumor progression by adjusting the phenotype of the tumor microenvironment and ultimately forming an immunosuppressive microenvironment. HCC-derived exosomal circRNA can affect HCC cell proliferation, invasion, metastasis, and induction of chemoresistance. Therefore, this review aimed to summarize the composition and function of these exosomes, the role that HCC-derived exosomal circRNAs play in microenvironment formation, and the interactions between exosomes and immune cells. This review outlines the role of exosomal circRNAs in the malignant phenotype of HCC and provides a preliminary exploration of the clinical utility of exosomal circRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huang-Zhen Xu
- Department of Digestive Tumor, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
| | - Xin-Yi Lin
- Department of Digestive Tumor, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
| | - Yun-Xian Xu
- Department of Digestive Tumor, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
| | - Hui-Bin Xue
- Department of Digestive Tumor, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
| | - Shu Lin
- Centre of Neurological and Metabolic Research, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, Fujian, China
- Group of Neuroendocrinology, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Tian-Wen Xu
- Department of Digestive Tumor, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Quanzhou, China
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Garbin A, Contarini G, Damanti CC, Tosato A, Bortoluzzi S, Gaffo E, Pizzi M, Carraro E, Lo Nigro L, Vinti L, Pillon M, Biffi A, Lovisa F, Mussolin L. MiR-146a-5p enrichment in small-extracellular vesicles of relapsed pediatric ALCL patients promotes macrophages infiltration and differentiation. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 215:115747. [PMID: 37591448 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023]
Abstract
Anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) is a CD30-positive lymphoma accounting for 20% of all pediatric T-cell lymphomas. Current first line treatment can cure most of ALCL patients but 10-30% of them are resistant or relapse. In this context, liquid biopsy has the potential to help clinicians in disease screening and treatment response monitoring. Small-RNA-sequencing analysis performed on plasma small-extracellular vesicles (s-EVs) from 20 pediatric anaplastic lymphoma kinase positive (ALK + ) ALCL patients at diagnosis revealed a specific miRNAs cargo in relapsed patients compared to non-relapsed, with seven miRNAs enriched in s-EVs of relapsed patients. MiR-146a-5p and miR-378a-3p showed a negative prognostic impact both in univariate and multivariate analysis, possibly representing, together with let-7 g-5p, a miRNA panel for the early identification of high-risk patients. Among them, miR-146a-5p is known to modulate tumor supporting-M2 macrophages differentiation, but the role of these cells in pediatric ALK + ALCL is still unknown. To elucidate the role of miR-146a-5p and M2 macrophages in pediatric ALCL disease, THP-1-derived macrophages were treated with s-EVs from ALK + ALCL cell lines, showing increased miR-146a-5p intracellular expression, migrating capability and M2-markers CD163 and Arginase-1 upregulation. In turn, conditioned media from M2 macrophages or miR-146a-5p-transfected THP-1 increased ALCL cells' aggressive features and were enriched in interleukin-8. Overall, these data suggest a role of miR-146a-5p in promoting macrophage infiltration and M2-like polarization in ALCL. Our findings incite further investigation on the role of M2 macrophages in ALCL aggressiveness and dissemination, also considering the novel treatment options targeting tumor associated macrophages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Garbin
- Maternal and Child Health Department Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplant Center, University of Padua, Padua, Italy; Istituto di Ricerca Pediatrica "Città della Speranza", Padua, Italy
| | - Giorgia Contarini
- Maternal and Child Health Department Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplant Center, University of Padua, Padua, Italy; Istituto di Ricerca Pediatrica "Città della Speranza", Padua, Italy
| | - Carlotta C Damanti
- Maternal and Child Health Department Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplant Center, University of Padua, Padua, Italy; Istituto di Ricerca Pediatrica "Città della Speranza", Padua, Italy
| | - Anna Tosato
- Maternal and Child Health Department Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplant Center, University of Padua, Padua, Italy; Istituto di Ricerca Pediatrica "Città della Speranza", Padua, Italy
| | | | - Enrico Gaffo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Marco Pizzi
- General Pathology and Cytopathology Unit, Department of Medicine-DMED, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Elisa Carraro
- Maternal and Child Health Department Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplant Center, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Luca Lo Nigro
- Centro di Riferimento Regionale di Ematologia ed Oncologia Pediatrica, Azienda Policlinico "G. Rodolico - San Marco", Catania, Italy
| | - Luciana Vinti
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Marta Pillon
- Maternal and Child Health Department Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplant Center, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Alessandra Biffi
- Maternal and Child Health Department Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplant Center, University of Padua, Padua, Italy; Istituto di Ricerca Pediatrica "Città della Speranza", Padua, Italy
| | - Federica Lovisa
- Istituto di Ricerca Pediatrica "Città della Speranza", Padua, Italy
| | - Lara Mussolin
- Maternal and Child Health Department Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Stem Cell Transplant Center, University of Padua, Padua, Italy; Istituto di Ricerca Pediatrica "Città della Speranza", Padua, Italy.
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Tan S, Tang H, Wang Y, Xie P, Li H, Zhang Z, Zhou J. Tumor cell-derived exosomes regulate macrophage polarization: Emerging directions in the study of tumor genesis and development. Heliyon 2023; 9:e19296. [PMID: 37662730 PMCID: PMC10474436 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e19296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
As an extracellular vesicle, exosomes play an important role in intercellular information transmission, delivering cargos of the parent cell, such as RNA, DNA, proteins, and lipids, activating different signaling pathways in the target cell and regulating inflammation, angiogenesis, and tumor progression. In particular, exosomes secreted by tumor cells can change the function of surrounding cells, creating a microenvironment conducive to tumor growth and metastasis. For example, after macrophages phagocytose exosomes and accept their cargos, they activate macrophage polarization-related signaling pathways and polarize macrophages into M1 or M2 types to exert antitumor or protumor functions. Currently, the study of exosomes affecting the polarization of macrophages has attracted increasing attention. Therefore, this paper reviews relevant studies in this field to better understand the mechanism of exosome-induced macrophage polarization and provide evidence for exploring novel targets for tumor therapy and new diagnostic markers in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyuan Tan
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Haodong Tang
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yang Wang
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, Jiangsu Province, China
- Department of Hepato-Pancreatico-Biliary Surgery, Zhongda Hospital Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Peng Xie
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, Jiangsu Province, China
- Department of Hepato-Pancreatico-Biliary Surgery, Zhongda Hospital Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Haifeng Li
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, Jiangsu Province, China
- Department of Hepato-Pancreatico-Biliary Surgery, Zhongda Hospital Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Zheng Zhang
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Jiahua Zhou
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, Jiangsu Province, China
- Department of Hepato-Pancreatico-Biliary Surgery, Zhongda Hospital Southeast University, Nanjing, 210009, Jiangsu Province, China
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Afra F, Mahboobipour AA, Salehi Farid A, Ala M. Recent progress in the immunotherapy of hepatocellular carcinoma: Non-coding RNA-based immunotherapy may improve the outcome. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 165:115104. [PMID: 37393866 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the second most lethal cancer and a leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) significantly improved the prognosis of HCC; however, the therapeutic response remains unsatisfactory in a substantial proportion of patients or needs to be further improved in responders. Herein, other methods of immunotherapy, including vaccine-based immunotherapy, adoptive cell therapy, cytokine delivery, kynurenine pathway inhibition, and gene delivery, have been adopted in clinical trials. Although the results were not encouraging enough to expedite their marketing. A major proportion of human genome is transcribed into non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs). Preclinical studies have extensively investigated the roles of ncRNAs in different aspects of HCC biology. HCC cells reprogram the expression pattern of numerous ncRNAs to decrease the immunogenicity of HCC, exhaust the cytotoxic and anti-cancer function of CD8 + T cells, natural killer (NK) cells, dendritic cells (DCs), and M1 macrophages, and promote the immunosuppressive function of T Reg cells, M2 macrophages, and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs). Mechanistically, cancer cells recruit ncRNAs to interact with immune cells, thereby regulating the expression of immune checkpoints, functional receptors of immune cells, cytotoxic enzymes, and inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines. Interestingly, prediction models based on the tissue expression or even serum levels of ncRNAs could predict response to immunotherapy in HCC. Moreover, ncRNAs markedly potentiated the efficacy of ICIs in murine models of HCC. This review article first discusses recent advances in the immunotherapy of HCC, then dissects the involvement and potential application of ncRNAs in the immunotherapy of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Afra
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Ali Mahboobipour
- Tracheal Diseases Research Center, National Research Institute of Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases (NRITLD), Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Salehi Farid
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Moein Ala
- Experimental Medicine Research Center, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Papadakos SP, Machairas N, Stergiou IE, Arvanitakis K, Germanidis G, Frampton AE, Theocharis S. Unveiling the Yin-Yang Balance of M1 and M2 Macrophages in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Role of Exosomes in Tumor Microenvironment and Immune Modulation. Cells 2023; 12:2036. [PMID: 37626849 PMCID: PMC10453902 DOI: 10.3390/cells12162036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a primary liver cancer with a high mortality rate and limited treatment options. Recent research has brought attention to the significant importance of intercellular communication in the progression of HCC, wherein exosomes have been identified as critical agents facilitating cell-to-cell signaling. In this article, we investigate the impact of macrophages as both sources and targets of exosomes in HCC, shedding light on the intricate interplay between exosome-mediated communication and macrophage involvement in HCC pathogenesis. It investigates how exosomes derived from HCC cells and other cell types within the tumor microenvironment (TME) can influence macrophage behavior, polarization, and recruitment. Furthermore, the section explores the reciprocal interactions between macrophage-derived exosomes and HCC cells, stromal cells, and other immune cells, elucidating their role in tumor growth, angiogenesis, metastasis, and immune evasion. The findings presented here contribute to a better understanding of the role of macrophage-derived exosomes in HCC progression and offer new avenues for targeted interventions and improved patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stavros P. Papadakos
- First Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 10679 Athens, Greece;
| | - Nikolaos Machairas
- Second Department of Propaedeutic Surgery, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Laikon General Hospital, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Ioanna E. Stergiou
- Pathophysiology Department, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Konstantinos Arvanitakis
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, St. Kiriakidi 1, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece; (K.A.); (G.G.)
- Basic and Translational Research Unit (BTRU), Special Unit for Biomedical Research and Education (BRESU), Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Georgios Germanidis
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, First Department of Internal Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, St. Kiriakidi 1, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece; (K.A.); (G.G.)
- Basic and Translational Research Unit (BTRU), Special Unit for Biomedical Research and Education (BRESU), Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Adam Enver Frampton
- Department of Surgery & Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London W12 0NN, UK
- Oncology Section, Surrey Cancer Research Institute, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, FHMS, University of Surrey, The Leggett Building, Daphne Jackson Road, Guildford GU2 7WG, UK
- HPB Surgical Unit, Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust, Guildford GU2 7XX, UK
| | - Stamatios Theocharis
- First Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 10679 Athens, Greece;
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36
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Abouelnazar FA, Zhang X, Zhang J, Wang M, Yu D, Zang X, Zhang J, Li Y, Xu J, Yang Q, Zhou Y, Tang H, Wang Y, Gu J, Zhang X. SALL4 promotes angiogenesis in gastric cancer by regulating VEGF expression and targeting SALL4/VEGF pathway inhibits cancer progression. Cancer Cell Int 2023; 23:149. [PMID: 37525212 PMCID: PMC10388482 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-023-02985-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spalt-like protein 4 (SALL4) is a stemness-related transcription factor whose abnormal re-expression contributes to cancer initiation and progression. However, the role of SALL4 in cancer angiogenesis remains unknown. METHODS Analyses of clinical specimens via TCGA datasets were performed to determine the expression level and clinical significance of SALL4 in STAD (Stomach Adenocarcinoma). SALL4 knockdown, knockout, and overexpression were achieved by siRNA, CRISPR/Cas9, and plasmid transfection. The effects of conditioned medium (CM) from SALL4 knockdown or overexpression of gastric cancer cells on endothelial cell proliferation, migration, and tube formation were investigated by CCK-8 assay, transwell migration assay, and tube formation assay. The regulation of VEGF gene expression by SALL4 was studied by qRT-PCR, western blot, chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assay, and electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA). Engineered exosomes from 293T cells loaded with si-SALL4-B and thalidomide were produced to test their therapeutic effect on gastric cancer progression. RESULTS SALL4 expression was increased in STAD and positively correlated with tumor progression and poor prognosis. SALL4-B knockdown or knockout decreased while over-expression increased the promotion of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) cell proliferation, migration, and tube formation by gastric cancer cell-derived CM. Further investigation revealed a widespread association of SALL4 with angiogenic gene transcription through the TCGA datasets. Additionally, SALL4-B knockdown reduced, while over-expression enhanced the expression levels of VEGF-A, B, and C genes. The results of ChIP and EMSA assays indicated that SALL4 could directly bind to the promoters of VEGF-A, B, and C genes and activate their transcription, which may be associated with increased histone H3-K79 and H3-K4 modifications in their promoter regions. Furthermore, si-SALL4-B and thalidomide-loaded exosomes could be efficiently uptaken by gastric cancer cells and significantly reduced SALL4-B and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) expression levels in gastric cancer cells, thus inhibiting the pro-angiogenic role of their derived CM. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that SALL4 plays an important role in angiogenesis by transcriptionally regulating VEGF expression. Co-delivery of the functional siRNA and anticancer drug via exosomes represents a useful approach to inhibiting cancer angiogenesis by targeting SALL4/VEGF pathway.
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Grants
- (2019GSZDSYS01, 2019GSZDSYS02) Key Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics and Precision Medicine for Surgical On-cology in Gansu Province
- (2019GSZDSYS01, 2019GSZDSYS02) Key Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics and Precision Medicine for Surgical On-cology in Gansu Province
- (2019GSZDSYS01, 2019GSZDSYS02) Key Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics and Precision Medicine for Surgical On-cology in Gansu Province
- (2019GSZDSYS01, 2019GSZDSYS02) Key Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics and Precision Medicine for Surgical On-cology in Gansu Province
- (2019GSZDSYS01, 2019GSZDSYS02) Key Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics and Precision Medicine for Surgical On-cology in Gansu Province
- (2019GSZDSYS01, 2019GSZDSYS02) Key Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics and Precision Medicine for Surgical On-cology in Gansu Province
- (2019GSZDSYS01, 2019GSZDSYS02) Key Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics and Precision Medicine for Surgical On-cology in Gansu Province
- (2019GSZDSYS01, 2019GSZDSYS02) Key Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics and Precision Medicine for Surgical On-cology in Gansu Province
- (2019GSZDSYS01, 2019GSZDSYS02) Key Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics and Precision Medicine for Surgical On-cology in Gansu Province
- (2019GSZDSYS01, 2019GSZDSYS02) Key Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics and Precision Medicine for Surgical On-cology in Gansu Province
- (2019GSZDSYS01, 2019GSZDSYS02) Key Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics and Precision Medicine for Surgical On-cology in Gansu Province
- (2019GSZDSYS01, 2019GSZDSYS02) Key Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics and Precision Medicine for Surgical On-cology in Gansu Province
- (2019GSZDSYS01, 2019GSZDSYS02) Key Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics and Precision Medicine for Surgical On-cology in Gansu Province
- (2019GSZDSYS01, 2019GSZDSYS02) Key Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics and Precision Medicine for Surgical On-cology in Gansu Province
- (2019GSZDSYS01, 2019GSZDSYS02) Key Laboratory of Molecular Diagnostics and Precision Medicine for Surgical On-cology in Gansu Province
- (NLDTG2020002) Non-profit Central Research Institute Fund of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences
- (NLDTG2020002) Non-profit Central Research Institute Fund of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences
- (NLDTG2020002) Non-profit Central Research Institute Fund of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences
- (NLDTG2020002) Non-profit Central Research Institute Fund of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences
- (NLDTG2020002) Non-profit Central Research Institute Fund of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences
- (NLDTG2020002) Non-profit Central Research Institute Fund of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences
- (NLDTG2020002) Non-profit Central Research Institute Fund of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences
- (NLDTG2020002) Non-profit Central Research Institute Fund of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences
- (NLDTG2020002) Non-profit Central Research Institute Fund of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences
- (NLDTG2020002) Non-profit Central Research Institute Fund of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences
- (NLDTG2020002) Non-profit Central Research Institute Fund of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences
- (NLDTG2020002) Non-profit Central Research Institute Fund of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences
- (NLDTG2020002) Non-profit Central Research Institute Fund of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences
- (NLDTG2020002) Non-profit Central Research Institute Fund of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences
- (NLDTG2020002) Non-profit Central Research Institute Fund of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences
- (PAPD) Priority Academic Program Development of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions
- (PAPD) Priority Academic Program Development of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions
- (PAPD) Priority Academic Program Development of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions
- (PAPD) Priority Academic Program Development of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions
- (PAPD) Priority Academic Program Development of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions
- (PAPD) Priority Academic Program Development of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions
- (PAPD) Priority Academic Program Development of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions
- (PAPD) Priority Academic Program Development of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions
- (PAPD) Priority Academic Program Development of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions
- (PAPD) Priority Academic Program Development of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions
- (PAPD) Priority Academic Program Development of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions
- (PAPD) Priority Academic Program Development of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions
- (PAPD) Priority Academic Program Development of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions
- (PAPD) Priority Academic Program Development of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions
- (PAPD) Priority Academic Program Development of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions
- (JC2021092) Nantong Science and Technology Bureau Project
- (JC2021092) Nantong Science and Technology Bureau Project
- (JC2021092) Nantong Science and Technology Bureau Project
- (JC2021092) Nantong Science and Technology Bureau Project
- (JC2021092) Nantong Science and Technology Bureau Project
- (JC2021092) Nantong Science and Technology Bureau Project
- (JC2021092) Nantong Science and Technology Bureau Project
- (JC2021092) Nantong Science and Technology Bureau Project
- (JC2021092) Nantong Science and Technology Bureau Project
- (JC2021092) Nantong Science and Technology Bureau Project
- (JC2021092) Nantong Science and Technology Bureau Project
- (JC2021092) Nantong Science and Technology Bureau Project
- (JC2021092) Nantong Science and Technology Bureau Project
- (JC2021092) Nantong Science and Technology Bureau Project
- (JC2021092) Nantong Science and Technology Bureau Project
- (KYCX21_3405, KYCX22_3713) Postgraduate Research & Practice Innovation Program of Jiangsu Province
- (KYCX21_3405, KYCX22_3713) Postgraduate Research & Practice Innovation Program of Jiangsu Province
- (KYCX21_3405, KYCX22_3713) Postgraduate Research & Practice Innovation Program of Jiangsu Province
- (KYCX21_3405, KYCX22_3713) Postgraduate Research & Practice Innovation Program of Jiangsu Province
- (KYCX21_3405, KYCX22_3713) Postgraduate Research & Practice Innovation Program of Jiangsu Province
- (KYCX21_3405, KYCX22_3713) Postgraduate Research & Practice Innovation Program of Jiangsu Province
- (KYCX21_3405, KYCX22_3713) Postgraduate Research & Practice Innovation Program of Jiangsu Province
- (KYCX21_3405, KYCX22_3713) Postgraduate Research & Practice Innovation Program of Jiangsu Province
- (KYCX21_3405, KYCX22_3713) Postgraduate Research & Practice Innovation Program of Jiangsu Province
- (KYCX21_3405, KYCX22_3713) Postgraduate Research & Practice Innovation Program of Jiangsu Province
- (KYCX21_3405, KYCX22_3713) Postgraduate Research & Practice Innovation Program of Jiangsu Province
- (KYCX21_3405, KYCX22_3713) Postgraduate Research & Practice Innovation Program of Jiangsu Province
- (KYCX21_3405, KYCX22_3713) Postgraduate Research & Practice Innovation Program of Jiangsu Province
- (KYCX21_3405, KYCX22_3713) Postgraduate Research & Practice Innovation Program of Jiangsu Province
- (KYCX21_3405, KYCX22_3713) Postgraduate Research & Practice Innovation Program of Jiangsu Province
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatma A Abouelnazar
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaoxin Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jiahui Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, China
| | - Maoye Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, China
| | - Dan Yu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xueyan Zang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jiayin Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yixin Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jing Xu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qiurong Yang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yue Zhou
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, China
| | - Haozhou Tang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yanzheng Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jianmei Gu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, 226300, China.
| | - Xu Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Medical Science and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, Jiangsu, China.
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Kotsari M, Dimopoulou V, Koskinas J, Armakolas A. Immune System and Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC): New Insights into HCC Progression. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11471. [PMID: 37511228 PMCID: PMC10380581 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
According to the WHO's recently released worldwide cancer data for 2020, liver cancer ranks sixth in morbidity and third in mortality among all malignancies. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common kind of liver cancer, accounts approximately for 80% of all primary liver malignancies and is one of the leading causes of death globally. The intractable tumor microenvironment plays an important role in the development and progression of HCC and is one of three major unresolved issues in clinical practice (cancer recurrence, fatal metastasis, and the refractory tumor microenvironment). Despite significant advances, improved molecular and cellular characterization of the tumor microenvironment is still required since it plays an important role in the genesis and progression of HCC. The purpose of this review is to present an overview of the HCC immune microenvironment, distinct cellular constituents, current therapies, and potential immunotherapy methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Kotsari
- Physiology Laboratory, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Vassiliki Dimopoulou
- Physiology Laboratory, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - John Koskinas
- B' Department of Medicine, Hippokration Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Athanasios Armakolas
- Physiology Laboratory, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
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Li T, Jiao J, Ke H, Ouyang W, Wang L, Pan J, Li X. Role of exosomes in the development of the immune microenvironment in hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1200201. [PMID: 37457718 PMCID: PMC10339802 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1200201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite numerous improved treatment methods used in recent years, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is still a disease with a high mortality rate. Many recent studies have shown that immunotherapy has great potential for cancer treatment. Exosomes play a significant role in negatively regulating the immune system in HCC. Understanding how these exosomes play a role in innate and adaptive immunity in HCC can significantly improve the immunotherapeutic effects on HCC. Further, engineered exosomes can deliver different drugs and RNA molecules to regulate the immune microenvironment of HCC by regulating the aforementioned immune pathway, thereby significantly improving the mortality rate of HCC. This study aimed to declare the role of exosomes in the development of the immune microenvironment in HCC and list engineered exosomes that could be used for clinical transformation therapy. These findings might be beneficial for clinical patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanghua Li
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiapeng Jiao
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Haoteng Ke
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenshan Ouyang
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Luobin Wang
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jin Pan
- The Department of Electronic Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hongkong, Hongkong SAR, China
| | - Xin Li
- Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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Tian JW, Zhang HJ, Li SY, Guo YL, Chen G, Yu ZL. Tumor Cell-derived Extracellular Vesicles in Modulating Phenotypes and Immune Functions of Macrophages: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Applications. J Cancer 2023; 14:1321-1334. [PMID: 37283792 PMCID: PMC10240675 DOI: 10.7150/jca.84632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor tissues consist of tumor cells and tumor stroma, which is structured by non-tumor cells and the extracellular matrix. Macrophages are the predominant immune cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Based on the intimate interaction between macrophages and tumor cells, macrophages are closely involved in tumor initiation and progression, playing a key role in tumor formation, angiogenesis, metastasis, and immune escape. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are a group of membrane-enclosed structures secreted by almost all cell types. As crucial mediators of cell-to-cell communication, EVs play a role in various physiological processes and the development of diseases including cancer. According to numerous studies, tumor cell-derived extracellular vesicles (T-EVs) could highly modulate the phenotypes and functions of macrophages, thus promoting tumor development. Herein, we comprehensively introduce the role of T-EVs in regulating the M1/M2 phenotypes and immune functions of macrophages, including cytokine secretion, expression of immune regulatory molecules on the membrane, phagocytosis, and antigen presentation. More importantly, based on the regulatory effects of T-EVs on macrophages, we propose several potential therapeutic approaches that may guide future attempts to increase the effectiveness of cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Wen Tian
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei-MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - He-Jing Zhang
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei-MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Si-Yuan Li
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei-MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Yong-Lin Guo
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei-MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
| | - Gang Chen
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei-MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
- TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
- Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Zi-Li Yu
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei-MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China
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Shen Y, Chen JX, Li M, Xiang Z, Wu J, Wang YJ. Role of tumor-associated macrophages in common digestive system malignant tumors. World J Gastrointest Oncol 2023; 15:596-616. [PMID: 37123058 PMCID: PMC10134211 DOI: 10.4251/wjgo.v15.i4.596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2022] [Revised: 02/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Many digestive system malignant tumors are characterized by high incidence and mortality rate. Increasing evidence has revealed that the tumor microenvironment (TME) is involved in cancer initiation and tumor progression. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are a predominant constituent of the TME, and participate in the regulation of various biological behaviors and influence the prognosis of digestive system cancer. TAMs can be mainly classified into the antitumor M1 phenotype and protumor M2 phenotype. The latter especially are crucial drivers of tumor invasion, growth, angiogenesis, metastasis, immunosuppression, and resistance to therapy. TAMs are of importance in the occurrence, development, diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of common digestive system malignant tumors. In this review, we summarize the role of TAMs in common digestive system malignant tumors, including esophageal, gastric, colorectal, pancreatic and liver cancers. How TAMs promote the development of tumors, and how they act as potential therapeutic targets and their clinical applications are also described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Shen
- Department of Dermatology, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Suzhou 215008, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Jia-Xi Chen
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310009, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Ming Li
- Department of Pathology, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Suzhou 215008, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Ze Xiang
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310009, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Jian Wu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Suzhou 215008, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yi-Jin Wang
- School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, Guangdong Province, China
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Gondaliya P, Sayyed AA, Driscoll J, Patel K, Patel T. Extracellular vesicle RNA signaling in the liver tumor microenvironment. Cancer Lett 2023; 558:216089. [PMID: 36758739 PMCID: PMC9992346 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2023.216089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) in liver cancers such as hepatocellular cancer (HCC) consists of a complex milieu of liver tissue-resident cells, infiltrated immune cells, and secreted factors that collectively serve to promote tumor growth and progression. Intercellular crosstalk contributes to tissue homeostasis, and perturbations during injury, inflammation and tumorigenesis that are important for tumor progression. Extracellular vesicle (EV)-mediated transfer of a payload of RNA molecules that serve as an intercellular signaling is an important contributor to tissue homeostasis within the TME. Several types of RNA have been implicated in EV-mediated signaling. Biological processes that can be modulated by EV RNA signaling within the liver include tumor growth, invasion, metastasis, angiogenesis, and modulation of the immune cell activities. This mini-review describes the liver TME, and the biological effects of EV RNA-mediated signaling within the liver to highlight the role of EV RNA in intercellular communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piyush Gondaliya
- Departments of Transplantation and Cancer Biology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Adil Ali Sayyed
- Departments of Transplantation and Cancer Biology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Julia Driscoll
- Departments of Transplantation and Cancer Biology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Krishna Patel
- Departments of Transplantation and Cancer Biology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Tushar Patel
- Departments of Transplantation and Cancer Biology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA.
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Han R, Li J, Hony J, Xiao Z, wang J, Yao M, Liang S, Lu L. CAXII inhibitors: Potential sensitizers for immune checkpoint inhibitors in HCC treatment. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1052657. [PMID: 37006233 PMCID: PMC10061011 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1052657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a lethal malignancy with a lack of effective treatments particularly for the disease at an advanced stage. Even though immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have made great progress in the treatment of HCC, durable and ideal clinical benefits still cannot be achieved in plenty of patients with HCC. Therefore, novel and refined ICI-based combination therapies are still needed to enhance the therapeutic effect. The latest study has reported that the carbonic anhydrase XII inhibitor (CAXIIi), a novel type of anticancer drug, can modify the tumor immunosuppression microenvironment by affecting hypoxic/acidic metabolism and alter the functions of monocytes and macrophages by regulating the expression of C-C motif chemokine ligand 8 (CCL8). These observations shine a light on improving programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1)/programmed cell death ligand-1 (PD-L1) immunotherapy in combination with CAXIIis. This mini-review aims to ignite enthusiasm to explore the potential application of CAXIIis in combination with immunotherapy for HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Han
- Department of Chinese Medicine Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Chinese Medicine, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Chronic Disease Epidemiology, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, United States
- School of Medicine, Center for Biomedical Data Science, New Haven, CT, United States
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
- *Correspondence: Rui Han, ; Lingeng Lu,
| | - Jiayin Li
- Department of Oncology, The First Hospital Affiliated to Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jing Hony
- Department of Chinese Medicine Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Chinese Medicine, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhiwei Xiao
- Department of Oncology, The First Hospital Affiliated to Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jinghui wang
- Department of Oncology, The First Hospital Affiliated to Guizhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guiyang, China
| | - Man Yao
- Department of Chinese Medicine Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Chinese Medicine, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shufang Liang
- Department of Chinese Medicine Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Chinese Medicine, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lingeng Lu
- Department of Chronic Disease Epidemiology, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, United States
- School of Medicine, Center for Biomedical Data Science, New Haven, CT, United States
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
- *Correspondence: Rui Han, ; Lingeng Lu,
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Yao M, Liang S, Cheng B. Role of exosomes in hepatocellular carcinoma and the regulation of traditional Chinese medicine. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1110922. [PMID: 36733504 PMCID: PMC9886889 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1110922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) usually occurs on the basis of chronic liver inflammatory diseases and cirrhosis. The liver microenvironment plays a vital role in the tumor initiation and progression. Exosomes, which are nanometer-sized membrane vesicles are secreted by a number of cell types. Exosomes carry multiple proteins, DNAs and various forms of RNA, and are mediators of cell-cell communication and regulate the tumor microenvironment. In the recent decade, many studies have demonstrated that exosomes are involved in the communication between HCC cells and the stromal cells, including endothelial cells, macrophages, hepatic stellate cells and the immune cells, and serve as a regulator in the tumor proliferation and metastasis, immune evasion and immunotherapy. In addition, exosomes can also be used for the diagnosis and treatment HCC. They can potentially serve as specific biomarkers for early diagnosis and drug delivery vehicles of HCC. Chinese herbal medicine, which is widely used in the prevention and treatment of HCC in China, may regulate the release of exosomes and exosomes-mediated intercellular communication. In this review, we summarized the latest progresses on the role of the exosomes in the initiation, progression and treatment of HCC and the potential value of Traditional Chinese medicine in exosomes-mediated biological behaviors of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man Yao
- Oncology Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University (The Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, China
| | - Shufang Liang
- Oncology Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University (The Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, China
| | - Binbin Cheng
- Oncology Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University (The Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, China,Faculty of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Naval Medical University (The Second Military Medical University), Shanghai, China,*Correspondence: Binbin Cheng,
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Chen QY, Gao B, Tong D, Huang C. Crosstalk between extracellular vesicles and tumor-associated macrophage in the tumor microenvironment. Cancer Lett 2023; 552:215979. [PMID: 36306939 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2022.215979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
In concert with hijacking key genes to drive tumor progression, cancer cells also have the unique ability to dynamically interact with host microenvironment and discreetly manipulate the surrounding stroma, also known as the tumor microenvironment (TME), to provide optimal conditions for tumor cells to thrive and evade host immunity. Complex cellular crosstalk and molecular signaling between cancer cells, surrounding non-malignant cells, and non-cellular components are involved in this process. While intercellular communication traditionally centers around chemokines, cytokines, inflammatory mediators, and growth factors, emerging pathways involving extracellular vesicles (EVs) are gaining increasing attention. The immunosuppressive TME is created and maintained in part by the large abundance of tumor-associated macrophages (TMAs), which are associated with drug resistance, poor prognosis, and have emerged as potential targets for cancer immunotherapy. TMAs are highly dynamic, and can be polarized into either M1 or M2-like macrophages. EVs are efficient cell-cell communication molecules that have been catapulted to the center of TMA polarization. In this article, we provide detailed examination of the determinative role of EVs in sustaining the TME through mediating crosstalk between tumor cells and tumor-associated macrophages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiao Yi Chen
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, China
| | - Beibei Gao
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, China
| | - Dongdong Tong
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, China.
| | - Chen Huang
- Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, China; Biomedical Experimental Center of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, China; Environmenta and Genes Related to Diseases Key Laboratory of Education Ministry, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, China.
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Mirza S, Penny C, Jain NK, Rawal RM. Curcumin mediated dendritic cell maturation by modulating cancer associated fibroblasts-derived exosomal miRNA-146a. J Cancer Res Ther 2023; 19:S649-S657. [PMID: 38384034 DOI: 10.4103/jcrt.jcrt_1286_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Though cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs), being a main component of tumor microenvironment (TME), are known to modulate immune response through secretion of various growth hormones, exosomes carrying miRNAs and cytokines; their effect on dendritic cells (DCs) are yet to be elucidated. Thus, aim of this study was to assess the effect of miRNAs and cytokines released by lung-CAFs and to evaluate immunomodulatory potential of curcumin on DC maturation through modulating their TME. MATERIAL AND METHODS To check the effect of CAFs derived exosomes on DC maturation, we cultured imDCs in the presence of CAFs derived conditioned media (CAFs-CM) and characterized by the presence of maturation markers CD80, CD83, CD86 and CTLA4 using qRT-PCR. Additionally, expression of miR-221, miR-222, miR-155, miR-142-3p and miR-146a was assessed to evaluate the role of epigenetic regulators on DC maturation. Likewise, cytokine profiling of CAFs-CM as well as CAFs-CM treated with curcumin was also conducted using ELISA. RESULTS Results revealed the generation of regulatory DCs which were characterized by decreased expression of maturation markers in the presence of CAFs-CM. In addition, such DCs showed higher expression of epigenetic regulator miR-146a which was positively correlated with increased expression of anti-inflammatory cytokines like IL-6, IL-10, TGF-β and decreased expression of TNF-α (pro-inflammatory). Moreover, curcumin had the potential to convert regulatory DCs generated by CAFs into mDCs, which were characterized by high expression of co-stimulatory molecules, low expression of CTLA4, lower levels of immune suppressive cytokines production and lower levels of miR-146a. CONCLUSION Collectively, these findings provide insight into understanding the immunomodulatory role of curcumin in targeting CAFs and modulating TME, thus enhancing antitumor immune response in DC based therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheefa Mirza
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Department of Life Science, School of Sciences, Gujarat University, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India
- Division of Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacogenomics, Department of Cancer Biology, The Gujarat Cancer and Research Institute, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India
| | - Clement Penny
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Nayan K Jain
- Department of Life Science, School of Sciences, Gujarat University, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India
| | - Rakesh M Rawal
- Department of Life Science, School of Sciences, Gujarat University, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India
- Division of Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacogenomics, Department of Cancer Biology, The Gujarat Cancer and Research Institute, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India
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Tumor-Derived Extracellular Vesicles in Cancer Immunoediting and Their Potential as Oncoimmunotherapeutics. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 15:cancers15010082. [PMID: 36612080 PMCID: PMC9817790 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15010082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) within and around a tumor is a complex interacting mixture of tumor cells with various stromal cells, including endothelial cells, fibroblasts, and immune cells. In the early steps of tumor formation, the local microenvironment tends to oppose carcinogenesis, while with cancer progression, the microenvironment skews into a protumoral TME and the tumor influences stromal cells to provide tumor-supporting functions. The creation and development of cancer are dependent on escape from immune recognition predominantly by influencing stromal cells, particularly immune cells, to suppress antitumor immunity. This overall process is generally called immunoediting and has been categorized into three phases; elimination, equilibrium, and escape. Interaction of tumor cells with stromal cells in the TME is mediated generally by cell-to-cell contact, cytokines, growth factors, and extracellular vesicles (EVs). The least well studied are EVs (especially exosomes), which are nanoparticle-sized bilayer membrane vesicles released by many cell types that participate in cell/cell communication. EVs carry various proteins, nucleic acids, lipids, and small molecules that influence cells that ingest the EVs. Tumor-derived extracellular vesicles (TEVs) play a significant role in every stage of immunoediting, and their cargoes change from immune-activating in the early stages of immunoediting into immunosuppressing in the escape phase. In addition, their cargos change with different treatments or stress conditions and can be influenced to be more immune stimulatory against cancer. This review focuses on the emerging understanding of how TEVs affect the differentiation and effector functions of stromal cells and their role in immunoediting, from the early stages of immunoediting to immune escape. Consideration of how TEVs can be therapeutically utilized includes different treatments that can modify TEV to support cancer immunotherapy.
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Li H, Zeng C, Shu C, Cao Y, Shao W, Zhang M, Cao H, Zhao S. Laminins in tumor-derived exosomes upregulated by ETS1 reprogram omental macrophages to promote omental metastasis of ovarian cancer. Cell Death Dis 2022; 13:1028. [PMID: 36477408 PMCID: PMC9729302 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-022-05472-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Tumor-derived exosomes participate in omental metastatic colonization of ovarian cancer by inducing an adaptive response in the tumor microenvironment. However, cell-cell communication via exosomes between primary tumor cells and the microenvironment of distant omentum and the mechanism of pre-metastatic niche formation are poorly understood. Here, we demonstrated that ETS1-overexpressing ovarian cancer cells secreted larger exosomes with higher laminin levels. In addition, ovarian cancer exosomes could be taken up by omental macrophages through integrin and laminin interaction. Compared with control exosomes, exosomes derived from ETS1-overexpressing ovarian cancer cells (LV-ETS1 Exos) stimulated the polarization of more macrophages toward the M2 phenotype (CD163 marker), as well as the production of more CXCL5 and CCL2 in macrophages, via integrin αvβ5/AKT/Sp1 signaling. In vivo experiments showed that LV-ETS1 Exos promoted omental metastasis of ovarian cancer by mediating the tumor-promoting effect of macrophages, which could be neutralized by integrin ανβ5 inhibitor cilengitide. These results indicated that ETS1 could drive ovarian cancer cells to release exosomes with higher laminin levels, thereby accelerating the exosome-mediated pro-metastatic effects of omental macrophages via the integrin αvβ5/AKT/Sp1 signaling pathway, and the integrin ανβ5 inhibitor cilengitide could inhibit omental metastasis of ovarian cancer driven by tumor-derived exosomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiyang Li
- grid.89957.3a0000 0000 9255 8984Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu China
| | - Cheng Zeng
- grid.89957.3a0000 0000 9255 8984General Clinical Research Center, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu China
| | - Chang Shu
- grid.254147.10000 0000 9776 7793General Clinical Research Center, Nanjing First Hospital, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu China
| | - Yuanyuan Cao
- grid.89957.3a0000 0000 9255 8984General Clinical Research Center, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu China
| | - Wengui Shao
- grid.254147.10000 0000 9776 7793General Clinical Research Center, Nanjing First Hospital, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu China
| | - Mengjie Zhang
- grid.254147.10000 0000 9776 7793General Clinical Research Center, Nanjing First Hospital, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu China
| | - Hongyong Cao
- grid.89957.3a0000 0000 9255 8984Department of General Surgery, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu China
| | - Shuli Zhao
- grid.89957.3a0000 0000 9255 8984General Clinical Research Center, Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu China ,grid.254147.10000 0000 9776 7793General Clinical Research Center, Nanjing First Hospital, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu China
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Yan Z, Wen JX, Cao XS, Zhao W, Han YL, Wen XH, Yan L, Zhang M, Wang YF, Hai L, Wang YJ, Zheng WQ, Hu ZD. Tumor cell-derived exosomal microRNA-146a promotes non-small cell lung cancer cell invasion and proliferation by inhibiting M1 macrophage polarization. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2022; 10:1307. [PMID: 36660623 PMCID: PMC9843328 DOI: 10.21037/atm-22-5565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Background Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) affects the outcomes of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). NSCLC cells released exosomes to suppress the antitumor activity of TAMs. MiR-146a is a critical regulator in TAM polarization. We hypothesized that NSCLC cells released exosomal miR-146a to regulate TAM polarization and thus affected its antitumor activity. Methods We used H1299 cells-derived exosomes to stimulate THP-1 cells that was pretreated with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (M0 macrophage). Flow cytometry and reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) were used to determine the polarization of macrophages. The conditioned medium of exosome-treated M0 cells was used to culture H1299 cells, and the Cell Counting Kit-8, Ki67, transwell and scratch wound assays were used to determine the biological behavior of H1299 cells. To investigate whether exosomal miR-146a regulates TAM macrophages through targeting tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 6 (TRAF-6) and interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase 1 (IRAK-1), we used small interfering RNA to knockdown the expressions of them. Results Upregulation of miR-146a inhibited M1 polarization and thus impaired the antitumor activity of TAMs. Exosomes released by H1299 cells can be taken by M0 macrophage, and they upregulated the expression of miR-146a in M0 macrophage. The exosome suppresses M1 polarization by exosomal miR-146a. TRAF-6 and IRAK-1 mediated the inhibitive effects of exosomal miR-146a on M1 polarization. Conclusions NSCLC cells released exosomal miR-146a to inhibit the expressions of TRAF-6 and IRAK-1 in TAMs, resulting in the impaired antitumor activity of TAMs. NSCLC cell-derived exosomal miR-146a represents a novel therapeutic target for NSCLC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Yan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China;,Department of Parasitology, the Basic Medical Sciences College of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Jian-Xun Wen
- Department of Medical Experiment Center, the Basic Medical Sciences College of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Xi-Shan Cao
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Wen Zhao
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Yu-Ling Han
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China;,Department of Parasitology, the Basic Medical Sciences College of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Xu-Hui Wen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China;,Department of Parasitology, the Basic Medical Sciences College of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Li Yan
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Man Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, the Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Ya-Fei Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Ling Hai
- Department of Pathology, the College of Basic Medical, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China;,Department of Pathology, the Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Ying-Jun Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Wen-Qi Zheng
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China;,Department of Parasitology, the Basic Medical Sciences College of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Zhi-De Hu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, the Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
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49
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Wang G, Luo G, Zhao M, Miao H. Significance of exosomes in hepatocellular carcinoma. Front Oncol 2022; 12:1056379. [PMID: 36531059 PMCID: PMC9748478 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1056379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Among the most prevalent cancers in the world, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has a high mortality rate. The diagnosis and management of HCC are presently hindered by difficulties in early detection and suboptimal treatment outcomes. Exosomes have been shown to play an important role in hepatocarcinogenesis and can also be used for diagnosis and treatment. In this review, we discussed the research progress on exosomes in hepatocarcinogenesis development, tumor microenvironment remodeling, treatment resistance, and immunosuppression. HCC can be diagnosed and treated by understanding the pathogenesis and identifying early diagnostic markers. This review will be a significant reference for scholars with an initial understanding of the field to fully understand the role of exosomes in the organism.
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Affiliation(s)
- GuoYun Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Second Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - GaiXiang Luo
- The First Clinical Medical College of Lanzhou University, Gansu Provincial People’s Hospital, Lanzhou, China
| | - MeiJing Zhao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Second Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - HuiLai Miao
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Second Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Liver Injury Diagnosis and Repair, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, China
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50
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Ilieva M, Panella R, Uchida S. MicroRNAs in Cancer and Cardiovascular Disease. Cells 2022; 11:3551. [PMID: 36428980 PMCID: PMC9688578 DOI: 10.3390/cells11223551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Although cardiac tumor formation is rare, accumulating evidence suggests that the two leading causes of deaths, cancers, and cardiovascular diseases are similar in terms of pathogenesis, including angiogenesis, immune responses, and fibrosis. These similarities have led to the creation of new exciting field of study called cardio-oncology. Here, we review the similarities between cancer and cardiovascular disease from the perspective of microRNAs (miRNAs). As miRNAs are well-known regulators of translation by binding to the 3'-untranslated regions (UTRs) of messenger RNAs (mRNAs), we carefully dissect how a specific set of miRNAs are both oncomiRs (miRNAs in cancer) and myomiRs (muscle-related miRNAs). Furthermore, from the standpoint of similar pathogenesis, miRNAs categories related to the similar pathogenesis are discussed; namely, angiomiRs, Immune-miRs, and fibromiRs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Shizuka Uchida
- Center for RNA Medicine, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, DK-2450 Copenhagen SV, Denmark
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