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Schlaepfer DD, Ojalill M, Stupack DG. Focal adhesion kinase signaling - tumor vulnerabilities and clinical opportunities. J Cell Sci 2024; 137:jcs261723. [PMID: 39034922 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.261723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Focal adhesion kinase (FAK; encoded by PTK2) was discovered over 30 years ago as a cytoplasmic protein tyrosine kinase that is localized to cell adhesion sites, where it is activated by integrin receptor binding to extracellular matrix proteins. FAK is ubiquitously expressed and functions as a signaling scaffold for a variety of proteins at adhesions and in the cell cytoplasm, and with transcription factors in the nucleus. FAK expression and intrinsic activity are essential for mouse development, with molecular connections to cell motility, cell survival and gene expression. Notably, elevated FAK tyrosine phosphorylation is common in tumors, including pancreatic and ovarian cancers, where it is associated with decreased survival. Small molecule and orally available FAK inhibitors show on-target inhibition in tumor and stromal cells with effects on chemotherapy resistance, stromal fibrosis and tumor microenvironment immune function. Herein, we discuss recent insights regarding mechanisms of FAK activation and signaling, its roles as a cytoplasmic and nuclear scaffold, and the tumor-intrinsic and -extrinsic effects of FAK inhibitors. We also discuss results from ongoing and advanced clinical trials targeting FAK in low- and high-grade serous ovarian cancers, where FAK acts as a master regulator of drug resistance. Although FAK is not known to be mutationally activated, preventing FAK activity has revealed multiple tumor vulnerabilities that support expanding clinical combinatorial targeting possibilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- David D Schlaepfer
- University of California, San Diego, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Moores Cancer Center, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, 3855 Health Sciences Dr., La Jolla, CA 92098, USA
| | - Marjaana Ojalill
- University of California, San Diego, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Moores Cancer Center, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, 3855 Health Sciences Dr., La Jolla, CA 92098, USA
| | - Dwayne G Stupack
- University of California, San Diego, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Moores Cancer Center, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, 3855 Health Sciences Dr., La Jolla, CA 92098, USA
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2
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Ghosh LD, Mathur T, Tronolone JJ, Chuong A, Rangel K, Corvigno S, Sood AK, Jain A. Angiogenesis-Enabled Human Ovarian Tumor Microenvironment-Chip Evaluates Pathophysiology of Platelets in Microcirculation. Adv Healthc Mater 2024; 13:e2304263. [PMID: 38553940 PMCID: PMC11281868 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202304263] [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: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
The tumor microenvironment (TME) promotes angiogenesis for its growth through the recruitment of multiple cells and signaling mechanisms. For example, TME actively recruits and activates platelets from the microcirculation to facilitate metastasis, but platelets may simultaneously also support tumor angiogenesis. Here, to model this complex pathophysiology within the TME that involves a signaling triad of cancer cells, sprouting endothelial cells, and platelets, an angiogenesis-enabled tumor microenvironment chip (aTME-Chip) is presented. This platform recapitulates the convergence of physiology of angiogenesis and platelet function within the ovarian TME and describes the contribution of platelets in promoting angiogenesis within an ovarian TME. By including three distinct human ovarian cancer cell-types, the aTME-Chip quantitatively reveals the following outcomes-first, introduction of platelets significantly increases angiogenesis; second, the temporal dynamics of angiogenic signaling is dependent on cancer cell type; and finally, tumor-educated platelets either activated exogenously by cancer cells or derived clinically from a cancer patient accelerate tumor angiogenesis. Further, analysis of effluents available from aTME-Chip validate functional outcomes by revealing changes in cytokine expression and several angiogenic and metastatic signaling pathways due to platelets. Collectively, this tumor microphysiological system may be deployed to derive antiangiogenic targets combined with antiplatelet treatments to arrest cancer metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lopamudra D. Ghosh
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Tanmay Mathur
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - James J Tronolone
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Ashley Chuong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | - Kelly Rangel
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, UT MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Sara Corvigno
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, UT MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Anil K. Sood
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine, UT MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Abhishek Jain
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
- Department of Medical Physiology, College of Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Bryan, Texas, USA
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Houston Methodist Academic Institute, Houston, Texas, USA
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3
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Wakasugi R, Suzuki K, Kaneko-Kawano T. Molecular Mechanisms Regulating Vascular Endothelial Permeability. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6415. [PMID: 38928121 PMCID: PMC11203514 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25126415] [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: 04/30/2024] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial cells form a monolayer in the vascular lumen and act as a selective barrier to control the permeability between blood and tissues. To maintain homeostasis, the endothelial barrier function must be strictly integrated. During acute inflammation, vascular permeability temporarily increases, allowing intravascular fluid, cells, and other components to permeate tissues. Moreover, it has been suggested that the dysregulation of endothelial cell permeability may cause several diseases, including edema, cancer, and atherosclerosis. Here, we reviewed the molecular mechanisms by which endothelial cells regulate the barrier function and physiological permeability.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Takako Kaneko-Kawano
- Graduate School of Pharmacy, Ritsumeikan University, 1-1-1 Noji-higashi, Kusatsu 525-8577, Shiga, Japan; (R.W.); (K.S.)
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4
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Gao J, Cheng J, Xie W, Zhang P, Liu X, Wang Z, Zhang B. Prospects of focal adhesion kinase inhibitors as a cancer therapy in preclinical and early phase study. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2024; 33:639-651. [PMID: 38676368 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2024.2348068] [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: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION FAK, a nonreceptor cytoplasmic tyrosine kinase, plays a crucial role in tumor metastasis, drug resistance, tumor stem cell maintenance, and regulation of the tumor microenvironment. FAK has emerged as a promising target for tumor therapy based on both preclinical and clinical data. AREAS COVERED This paper aims to summarize the molecular mechanisms underlying FAK's involvement in tumorigenesis and progression. Encouraging results have emerged from ongoing clinical trials of FAK inhibitors. Additionally, we present an overview of clinical trials for FAK inhibitors, examining their potential as promising treatments. The pertinent studies gathered from databases including PubMed, ClinicalTrials.gov. EXPERT OPINION Since the first finding in 1990s, targeting FAK has became the focus of interests in many pharmaceutical companies. Through 30 years' discovery, the industry and academy gradually realized the features of FAK target which may not be a driver gene but a solid defense system for the cancer initiation and development. Currently, the ongoing clinical regimens involving FAK inhibition are all the combination strategies in which FAK inhibitors can further strengthen the cancer cell killing effects of other testing agents. The emerging positive signal in clinical trials foresee targeting FAK as class will be an effective mean to fight against cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Wanyu Xie
- InxMed (Shanghai) Co. Ltd, Shanghai, China
| | - Ping Zhang
- InxMed (Shanghai) Co. Ltd, Shanghai, China
| | - Xuebin Liu
- InxMed (Shanghai) Co. Ltd, Shanghai, China
| | - Zaiqi Wang
- InxMed (Shanghai) Co. Ltd, Shanghai, China
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Sáinz-Jaspeado M, Ring S, Proulx ST, Richards M, Martinsson P, Li X, Claesson-Welsh L, Ulvmar MH, Jin Y. VE-cadherin junction dynamics in initial lymphatic vessels promotes lymph node metastasis. Life Sci Alliance 2024; 7:e202302168. [PMID: 38148112 PMCID: PMC10751244 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.202302168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The endothelial junction component vascular endothelial (VE)-cadherin governs junctional dynamics in the blood and lymphatic vasculature. Here, we explored how lymphatic junction stability is modulated by elevated VEGFA signaling to facilitate metastasis to sentinel lymph nodes. Zippering of VE-cadherin junctions was established in dermal initial lymphatic vessels after VEGFA injection and in tumor-proximal lymphatics in mice. Shape analysis of pan-cellular VE-cadherin fragments revealed that junctional zippering was accompanied by accumulation of small round-shaped VE-cadherin fragments in the lymphatic endothelium. In mice expressing a mutant VEGFR2 lacking the Y949 phosphosite (Vegfr2 Y949F/Y949F ) required for activation of Src family kinases, zippering of lymphatic junctions persisted, whereas accumulation of small VE-cadherin fragments was suppressed. Moreover, tumor cell entry into initial lymphatic vessels and subsequent metastatic spread to lymph nodes was reduced in mutant mice compared with WT, after challenge with B16F10 melanoma or EO771 breast cancer. We conclude that VEGFA mediates zippering of VE-cadherin junctions in initial lymphatics. Zippering is accompanied by increased VE-cadherin fragmentation through VEGFA-induced Src kinase activation, correlating with tumor dissemination to sentinel lymph nodes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Sáinz-Jaspeado
- https://ror.org/048a87296 Beijer and Science for Life Laboratories, Department Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Sarah Ring
- https://ror.org/048a87296 Beijer and Science for Life Laboratories, Department Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Steven T Proulx
- ETH Zürich, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zürich, Switzerland
- Theodor Kocher Institute, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Mark Richards
- https://ror.org/048a87296 Beijer and Science for Life Laboratories, Department Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Pernilla Martinsson
- https://ror.org/048a87296 Beijer and Science for Life Laboratories, Department Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Xiujuan Li
- Cyrus Tang Hematology Center, Collaborative Innovation Center of Hematology, State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Lena Claesson-Welsh
- https://ror.org/048a87296 Beijer and Science for Life Laboratories, Department Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Maria H Ulvmar
- https://ror.org/048a87296 Beijer and Science for Life Laboratories, Department Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- https://ror.org/048a87296 Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Yi Jin
- https://ror.org/048a87296 Beijer and Science for Life Laboratories, Department Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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Tiwari A, Kumari B, Nandagopal S, Mishra A, Shukla KK, Kumar A, Dutt N, Ahirwar DK. Promises of Protein Kinase Inhibitors in Recalcitrant Small-Cell Lung Cancer: Recent Scenario and Future Possibilities. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:963. [PMID: 38473324 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16050963] [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: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
SCLC is refractory to conventional therapies; targeted therapies and immunological checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) molecules have prolonged survival only marginally. In addition, ICIs help only a subgroup of SCLC patients. Different types of kinases play pivotal roles in therapeutics-driven cellular functions. Therefore, there is a significant need to understand the roles of kinases in regulating therapeutic responses, acknowledge the existing knowledge gaps, and discuss future directions for improved therapeutics for recalcitrant SCLC. Here, we extensively review the effect of dysregulated kinases in SCLC. We further discuss the pharmacological inhibitors of kinases used in targeted therapies for recalcitrant SCLC. We also describe the role of kinases in the ICI-mediated activation of antitumor immune responses. Finally, we summarize the clinical trials evaluating the potential of kinase inhibitors and ICIs. This review overviews dysregulated kinases in SCLC and summarizes their potential as targeted therapeutic agents. We also discuss their clinical efficacy in enhancing anticancer responses mediated by ICIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aniket Tiwari
- Department of Bioscience & Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Jodhpur, Jodhpur 342030, Rajasthan, India
| | - Beauty Kumari
- Department of Bioscience & Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Jodhpur, Jodhpur 342030, Rajasthan, India
| | - Srividhya Nandagopal
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences Jodhpur, Jodhpur 342005, Rajasthan, India
| | - Amit Mishra
- Department of Bioscience & Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Jodhpur, Jodhpur 342030, Rajasthan, India
| | - Kamla Kant Shukla
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences Jodhpur, Jodhpur 342005, Rajasthan, India
| | - Ashok Kumar
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Bhopal, Saket Nagar, Bhopal 462020, Madhya Pradesh, India
| | - Naveen Dutt
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences Jodhpur, Jodhpur 342005, Rajasthan, India
| | - Dinesh Kumar Ahirwar
- Department of Bioscience & Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Jodhpur, Jodhpur 342030, Rajasthan, India
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7
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Zhang D, Chen H, Wang J, Ji J, Imam M, Zhang Z, Yan S. Current progress and prospects for G protein-coupled estrogen receptor in triple-negative breast cancer. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1338448. [PMID: 38476263 PMCID: PMC10928007 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1338448] [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: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a biologically and clinically heterogeneous disease. The G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER) plays a crucial role in mediating the effect of estrogen and estrogen-like compounds in TNBC cells. Compared with other subtypes, GPER has a higher expression in TNBC. The GPER mechanisms have been thoroughly characterized and analyzed in estrogen receptor α (ERα) positive breast cancer, but not in TNBC. Our previous work revealed that a higher expression of GPER mRNA indicates a better prognosis for ERα-positive breast cancer; however, its effects in TNBC differ. Whether GPER could serve as a predictive prognostic marker or therapeutic target for TNBC remains unclear. In this review, we provide a detailed introduction to the subcellular localization of GPER, the different effects of various ligands, and the interactions between GPER and closely associated factors in TNBC. We focused on the internal molecular mechanisms specific to TNBC and thoroughly explored the role of GPER in promoting tumor development. We also discussed the interaction of GPER with specific cytokines and chemokines, and the relationship between GPER and immune evasion. Additionally, we discussed the feasibility of using GPER as a therapeutic target in the context of existing studies. This comprehensive review highlights the effects of GPER on TNBC, providing a framework and directions for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Shunchao Yan
- Department of Oncology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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8
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Hu HH, Wang SQ, Shang HL, Lv HF, Chen BB, Gao SG, Chen XB. Roles and inhibitors of FAK in cancer: current advances and future directions. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1274209. [PMID: 38410129 PMCID: PMC10895298 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1274209] [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: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Focal adhesion kinase (FAK) is a non-receptor tyrosine kinase that exhibits high expression in various tumors and is associated with a poor prognosis. FAK activation promotes tumor growth, invasion, metastasis, and angiogenesis via both kinase-dependent and kinase-independent pathways. Moreover, FAK is crucial for sustaining the tumor microenvironment. The inhibition of FAK impedes tumorigenesis, metastasis, and drug resistance in cancer. Therefore, developing targeted inhibitors against FAK presents a promising therapeutic strategy. To date, numerous FAK inhibitors, including IN10018, defactinib, GSK2256098, conteltinib, and APG-2449, have been developed, which have demonstrated positive anti-tumor effects in preclinical studies and are undergoing clinical trials for several types of tumors. Moreover, many novel FAK inhibitors are currently in preclinical studies to advance targeted therapy for tumors with aberrantly activated FAK. The benefits of FAK degraders, especially in terms of their scaffold function, are increasingly evident, holding promising potential for future clinical exploration and breakthroughs. This review aims to clarify FAK's role in cancer, offering a comprehensive overview of the current status and future prospects of FAK-targeted therapy and combination approaches. The goal is to provide valuable insights for advancing anti-cancer treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Hui Hu
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University and Henan Cancer Hospital, Henan Engineering Research Center of Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer and Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Sai-Qi Wang
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University and Henan Cancer Hospital, Henan Engineering Research Center of Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer and Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer, Zhengzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Hai-Li Shang
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University and Henan Cancer Hospital, Henan Engineering Research Center of Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer and Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Hui-Fang Lv
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University and Henan Cancer Hospital, Henan Engineering Research Center of Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer and Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Bei-Bei Chen
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University and Henan Cancer Hospital, Henan Engineering Research Center of Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer and Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer, Zhengzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - She-Gan Gao
- Henan Key Laboratory of Microbiome and Esophageal Cancer Prevention and Treatment, Henan Key Laboratory of Cancer Epigenetics, Cancer Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Xiao-Bing Chen
- Department of Oncology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University and Henan Cancer Hospital, Henan Engineering Research Center of Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer and Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for Precision Therapy of Gastrointestinal Cancer, Zhengzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory of Esophageal Cancer Prevention & Treatment, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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9
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Ng WH, Soo KC, Huynh H. Vinorelbine Improves the Efficacy of Sorafenib against Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Promising Therapeutic Approach. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1563. [PMID: 38338842 PMCID: PMC10855313 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031563] [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: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading global cause of cancer-related mortality. Despite the widespread adoption of sorafenib as the standard HCC treatment, its efficacy is constrained, frequently encountering resistance. To augment the effectiveness of sorafenib, this study investigated the synergy of sorafenib and vinorelbine using 22 HCC patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models. In this study, mice bearing HCC tumors were treated with the vehicle, sorafenib (15 mg/kg), vinorelbine (3 mg/kg), and sorafenib-vinorelbine combination (Sora/Vino). Rigorous monitoring of the tumor growth and side effects coupled with comprehensive histological and molecular analyses was conducted. The overall survival (OS) of mice bearing HCC orthotopic tumors was also assessed. Our data showed a notable 86.4% response rate to Sora/Vino, surpassing rates of 31.8% for sorafenib and 9.1% for vinorelbine monotherapies. Sora/Vino significantly inhibited tumor growth, prolonged OS of mice bearing HCC orthotopic tumors (p < 0.01), attenuated tumor cell proliferation and angiogenesis, and enhanced necrosis and apoptosis. The combination therapy effectively suppressed the focal adhesion kinase (FAK) pathway, which is a pivotal player in cell proliferation, tumor angiogenesis, survival, and metastasis. The noteworthy antitumor activity in 22 HCC PDX models positions Sora/Vino as a promising candidate for early-phase clinical trials, leveraging the established use of sorafenib and vinorelbine in HCC and other cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wai Har Ng
- Laboratory of Molecular Endocrinology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore 168583, Singapore;
| | - Khee Chee Soo
- Division of Surgery and Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore 168583, Singapore
| | - Hung Huynh
- Laboratory of Molecular Endocrinology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore 168583, Singapore;
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Chen Q, Li Y, Lu T, Luo J, Yang L, Zhou Z, Tian Z, Tan S, Liu Q. miR-373 promotes invasion and metastasis of colorectal cancer cells via activating ERK/MAPK pathway. Sci Rep 2024; 14:124. [PMID: 38167930 PMCID: PMC10762131 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-49565-5] [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: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
To explore the relationship between miR-373 and the occurrence and development of colorectal cancer. Additionally, it aims to predict the potential cellular signaling pathways and regulatory mechanisms in which miR-373 may be involved and provides a theoretical basis and experimental evidence for the clinical application of miR-373 as a potential biomarker, molecular target, and prognostic indicator in colorectal cancer. Real-time quantitative PCR is used to analyze the expression of miR-373 in human colorectal cancer cell lines and normal human colonic epithelial cells. Further validation of the differential expression of miR-373 in colorectal cancer cell lines is being performed. Biological functions such as cell proliferation, invasion and apoptosis are being detected by MTT, CCK-8, transwell, cell cycle analysis, and flow cytometry experiments to verify the changes in the biological behavior of colon cancer cells after overexpression and interference of miR-373 in SW-480 cells and to explore the effects of miR-373 on cell proliferation, invasion, and apoptosis in colon cancer cells. Proteomic analysis is being conducted on proteins extracted from miR-373 overexpressing SW480 cells, and mass spectrometry is used for protein identification. GO, KEGG, and enrichment analysis are being employed to analyze the significantly differentially expressed proteins. The expression levels of pathway-related proteins are being verified using Western blot. Overexpression of miR-373 increased the invasive and metastatic ability of SW-480 cells; knockdown of miR-373 decreased the invasive and metastatic ability of SW-480 cells. However, there was no statistically significant effect on cell proliferation and apoptosis in SW-480 cells. Proteomic analysis identified 78 differentially expressed proteins based on fold change (FC) > 1.2 and P < 0.05. Annotation of differentially changed proteins revealed that the MAPK signaling pathway, PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, and FAK signaling pathway may play crucial roles in the migration and invasion of colorectal cancer. Western blot analysis showed that overexpression of miR-373 significantly increased the levels of p-ERK1/2 in SW480 cells. miR-373 may activate the ERK/MAPK signaling pathway to promote the invasion and migration of colorectal cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Chen
- Department of Surgery, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410005, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Yunfeng Li
- Department of General Surgery, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410005, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Tailiang Lu
- Department of General Surgery, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410005, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Jihui Luo
- Department of comprehensive Surgery, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410005, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410005, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Zheng Zhou
- Department of General Surgery, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410005, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Zeyu Tian
- Department of General Surgery, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410005, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Siwen Tan
- Department of General Surgery, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410005, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Qi Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410005, Hunan, People's Republic of China.
- Department of General Surgery, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, No. 61 Jiefang West Road, Changsha, 410000, Hunan, People's Republic of China.
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11
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Oria VO, Erler JT. Tumor Angiocrine Signaling: Novel Targeting Opportunity in Cancer. Cells 2023; 12:2510. [PMID: 37887354 PMCID: PMC10605017 DOI: 10.3390/cells12202510] [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: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The vascular endothelium supplies nutrients and oxygen to different body organs and supports the progression of diseases such as cancer through angiogenesis. Pathological angiogenesis remains a challenge as most patients develop resistance to the approved anti-angiogenic therapies. Therefore, a better understanding of endothelium signaling will support the development of more effective treatments. Over the past two decades, the emerging consensus suggests that the role of endothelial cells in tumor development has gone beyond angiogenesis. Instead, endothelial cells are now considered active participants in the tumor microenvironment, secreting angiocrine factors such as cytokines, growth factors, and chemokines, which instruct their proximate microenvironments. The function of angiocrine signaling is being uncovered in different fields, such as tissue homeostasis, early development, organogenesis, organ regeneration post-injury, and tumorigenesis. In this review, we elucidate the intricate role of angiocrine signaling in cancer progression, including distant metastasis, tumor dormancy, pre-metastatic niche formation, immune evasion, and therapy resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor Oginga Oria
- Biotech Research and Innovation Centre (BRIC), Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Ole Maaløes Vej 5, DK-2200 Copenhagen, Denmark;
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12
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Nan W, He Y, Wang S, Zhang Y. Molecular mechanism of VE-cadherin in regulating endothelial cell behaviour during angiogenesis. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1234104. [PMID: 37601629 PMCID: PMC10433914 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1234104] [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: 06/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial (VE)-cadherin, an endothelium-specific adhesion protein, is found in the junctions between endothelial cells (ECs). It's crucial to maintain the homogeneity of ECs. Keeping and controlling the contact between ECs is essential. In addition to its adhesive function, VE-cadherin plays important roles in vascular development, permeability, and tumour angiogenesis. Signal transfer, cytoskeletal reconstruction, and contractile integrating, which are crucial for constructing and maintaining monolayer integrity as well as for repair and regeneration, are the foundation of endothelial cell (EC) junctional dynamics. The molecular basis of adhesion junctions (AJs), which are closely related and work with actin filaments, is provided by the VE-cadherin-catenin complex. They can activate intracellular signals that drive ECs to react or communicate structural changes to junctions. An increasing number of molecules, including the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) and vascular endothelial protein tyrosine phosphatase (VE-PTP), have been connected to VE-cadherin in addition to the conventional VE-cadherin-catenin complex. This review demonstrates significant progress in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms that affect VE-cadherin's function in the regulation of EC behaviour during angiogenesis. The knowledge of the molecular processes that control VE-cadherin's role in the regulation of EC behaviour during angiogenesis has recently advanced, as shown in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weijin Nan
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yuxi He
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Shurong Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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13
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Dong G, Chen P, Xu Y, Liu T, Yin R. Cancer-associated fibroblasts: Key criminals of tumor pre-metastatic niche. Cancer Lett 2023; 566:216234. [PMID: 37236390 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2023.216234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 05/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are abundant and important components of the tumour mesenchyme, and have been extensively studied for their role in primary tumours. CAFs provide biomechanical support for tumour cells and play key roles in immunosuppression and tumour metastasis. CAFs can promote epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of the primary tumour by secreting extracellular vesicles (EVs), increasing adhesion to tumour cells, remodelling the extracellular matrix (ECM) of the primary tumour, and changing its mechanical stiffness, which provides a pathway for tumour metastasis. Moreover, CAFs can form cell clusters with circulating tumour cells (CTCs) to help them resist blood shear forces and achieve colonisation of distant host organs. Recent studies have revealed their roles in pre-metastatic niche (PMN) formation and prevention. In this review, we discuss the role of CAFs in PMN formation and therapeutic interventions targeting PMN and CAFs to prevent metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guozhang Dong
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular and Translational Cancer Research, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Nanjing Medical University Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, 21009, Nanjing, China; The Fourth Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, 21009, Nanjing, China
| | - Peng Chen
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular and Translational Cancer Research, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Nanjing Medical University Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, 21009, Nanjing, China; The Fourth Clinical College of Nanjing Medical University, 21009, Nanjing, China
| | - Youtao Xu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular and Translational Cancer Research, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Nanjing Medical University Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, 21009, Nanjing, China.
| | - Tongyan Liu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular and Translational Cancer Research, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Nanjing Medical University Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, 21009, Nanjing, China; Department of Scientific Research, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research & the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular and Translational Cancer Research, Nanjing, China.
| | - Rong Yin
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular and Translational Cancer Research, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Nanjing Medical University Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, 21009, Nanjing, China; Department of Scientific Research, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital & Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research & the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular and Translational Cancer Research, Nanjing, China; Jiangsu Biobank of Clinical Resources, Nanjing, 210009, China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Personalized Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, 211116, Nanjing, China
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14
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Terhorst I, Oberhuber A, Eierhoff T. [Interaction between the gut microbiome and the aorta: effect of short-chain fatty acids on endothelial integrity]. GEFASSCHIRURGIE : ZEITSCHRIFT FUR VASKULARE UND ENDOVASKULARE CHIRURGIE : ORGAN DER DEUTSCHEN UND DER OSTERREICHISCHEN GESELLSCHAFT FUR GEFASSCHIRURGIE UNTER MITARBEIT DER SCHWEIZERISCHEN GESELLSCHAFT FUR GEFASSCHIRURGIE 2023; 28:1-5. [PMID: 37360795 PMCID: PMC10239552 DOI: 10.1007/s00772-023-01004-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Inka Terhorst
- Klinik für Vaskuläre und Endovaskuläre Chirurgie, Universitätsklinikum Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, 48149 Münster, Deutschland
| | - Alexander Oberhuber
- Klinik für Vaskuläre und Endovaskuläre Chirurgie, Universitätsklinikum Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, 48149 Münster, Deutschland
| | - Thorsten Eierhoff
- Klinik für Vaskuläre und Endovaskuläre Chirurgie, Universitätsklinikum Münster, Albert-Schweitzer-Campus 1, 48149 Münster, Deutschland
- Klinik für Vaskuläre und Endovaskuläre Chirurgie, Labor für Vaskuläre Biologie, Universitätsklinikum Münster, Von-Esmarch-Straße 54, 48149 Münster, Deutschland
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15
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Delgado-Bellido D, Oliver FJ, Vargas Padilla MV, Lobo-Selma L, Chacón-Barrado A, Díaz-Martin J, de Álava E. VE-Cadherin in Cancer-Associated Angiogenesis: A Deceptive Strategy of Blood Vessel Formation. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24119343. [PMID: 37298296 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24119343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Tumor growth depends on the vascular system, either through the expansion of blood vessels or novel adaptation by tumor cells. One of these novel pathways is vasculogenic mimicry (VM), which is defined as a tumor-provided vascular system apart from endothelial cell-lined vessels, and its origin is partly unknown. It involves highly aggressive tumor cells expressing endothelial cell markers that line the tumor irrigation. VM has been correlated with high tumor grade, cancer cell invasion, cancer cell metastasis, and reduced survival of cancer patients. In this review, we summarize the most relevant studies in the field of angiogenesis and cover the various aspects and functionality of aberrant angiogenesis by tumor cells. We also discuss the intracellular signaling mechanisms involved in the abnormal presence of VE-cadherin (CDH5) and its role in VM formation. Finally, we present the implications for the paradigm of tumor angiogenesis and how targeted therapy and individualized studies can be applied in scientific analysis and clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Delgado-Bellido
- Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina López Neyra, CSIC, 18016 Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Salud Carlos III, CIBERONC, 28220 Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla, Hospital Virgen del Rocío, 41013 Seville, Spain
| | - F J Oliver
- Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina López Neyra, CSIC, 18016 Granada, Spain
| | | | - Laura Lobo-Selma
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla, Hospital Virgen del Rocío, 41013 Seville, Spain
| | | | - Juan Díaz-Martin
- Instituto de Salud Carlos III, CIBERONC, 28220 Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla, Hospital Virgen del Rocío, 41013 Seville, Spain
| | - Enrique de Álava
- Instituto de Salud Carlos III, CIBERONC, 28220 Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Biomedicina de Sevilla, Hospital Virgen del Rocío, 41013 Seville, Spain
- Department of Normal and Pathological Cytology and Histology, School of Medicine, University of Seville, 41009 Seville, Spain
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16
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VE-Cadherin modulates β-catenin/TCF-4 to enhance Vasculogenic Mimicry. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:135. [PMID: 36797281 PMCID: PMC9935922 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-05666-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
Vasculogenic Mimicry (VM) refers to the capacity to form a blood network from aggressive cancer cells in an independent way of endothelial cells, to provide nutrients and oxygen leading to enhanced microenvironment complexity and treatment failure. In a previous study, we demonstrated that VE-Cadherin and its phosphorylation at Y658 modulated kaiso-dependent gene expression (CCND1 and Wnt 11) through a pathway involving Focal Adhesion kinase (FAK). In the present research, using a proteomic approach, we have found that β-catenin/TCF-4 is associated with nuclear VE-cadherin and enhances the capacity of malignant melanoma cells to undergo VM in cooperation with VE-Cadherin; in addition, preventing the phosphorylation of Y658 of VE-cadherin upon FAK disabling resulted in VE-Cadherin/β-catenin complex dissociation, increased β-catenin degradation while reducing TCF-4-dependent genes transcription (C-Myc and Twist-1). Uveal melanoma cells knockout for VE-Cadherin loses β-catenin expression while the rescue of VE-Cadherin (but not of the phosphorylation defective VE-Cadherin Y658F mutant) permits stabilization of β-catenin and tumor growth reduction in vivo experiments. In vivo, the concomitant treatment with the FAK inhibitor PF-271 and the anti-angiogenic agent bevacizumab leads to a strong reduction in tumor growth concerning the single treatment. In conclusion, the anomalous expression of VE-Cadherin in metastatic melanoma cells (from both uveal and cutaneous origins), together with its permanent phosphorylation at Y658, favors the induction of the aggressive VM phenotype through the cooperation of β-catenin with VE-Cadherin and by enhancing TCF-4 genes-dependent transcription.
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17
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Garnier O, Vilgrain I. Dialogue between VE-Cadherin and Sphingosine 1 Phosphate Receptor1 (S1PR1) for Protecting Endothelial Functions. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24044018. [PMID: 36835432 PMCID: PMC9959973 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24044018] [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: 01/12/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The endothelial cells (EC) of established blood vessels in adults remain extraordinarily quiescent in the sense that they are not actively proliferating, but they fulfill the necessary role to control the permeability of their monolayer that lines the interior of blood vessels. The cell-cell junctions between ECs in the endothelium comprise tight junctions and adherens homotypic junctions, which are ubiquitous along the vascular tree. Adherens junctions are adhesive intercellular contacts that are crucial for the organization of the EC monolayer and its maintenance and regulation of normal microvascular function. The molecular components and underlying signaling pathways that control the association of adherens junctions have been described in the last few years. In contrast, the role that dysfunction of these adherens junctions has in contributing to human vascular disease remains an important open issue. Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) is a bioactive sphingolipid mediator found at high concentrations in blood which has important roles in the control of the vascular permeability, cell recruitment, and clotting that follow inflammatory processes. This role of S1P is achieved through a signaling pathway mediated through a family of G protein-coupled receptors designated as S1PR1. This review highlights novel evidence for a direct linkage between S1PR1 signaling and the mediation of EC cohesive properties that are controlled by VE-cadherin.
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18
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Zhang Z, Li J, Jiao S, Han G, Zhu J, Liu T. Functional and clinical characteristics of focal adhesion kinases in cancer progression. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:1040311. [PMID: 36407100 PMCID: PMC9666724 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.1040311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Focal adhesion kinase (FAK) is a non-receptor tyrosine kinase and an adaptor protein that primarily regulates adhesion signaling and cell migration. FAK promotes cell survival in response to stress. Increasing evidence has shown that at the pathological level, FAK is highly expressed in multiple tumors in several systems (including lung, liver, gastric, and colorectal cancers) and correlates with tumor aggressiveness and patient prognosis. At the molecular level, FAK promotes tumor progression mainly by altering survival signals, invasive capacity, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, the tumor microenvironment, the Warburg effect, and stemness of tumor cells. Many effective drugs have been developed based on the comprehensive role of FAK in tumor cells. In addition, its potential as a tumor marker cannot be ignored. Here, we discuss the pathological and pre-clinical evidence of the role of FAK in cancer development; we hope that these findings will assist in FAK-based clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaoyu Zhang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Nutrition and Hernia Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Jinlong Li
- Department of Gastrointestinal Nutrition and Hernia Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Simin Jiao
- Department of Gastrointestinal Nutrition and Hernia Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Guangda Han
- Department of Gastrointestinal Nutrition and Hernia Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Jiaming Zhu
- Department of Surgical Oncology and General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Tianzhou Liu
- Department of Gastrointestinal Nutrition and Hernia Surgery, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
- *Correspondence: Tianzhou Liu,
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19
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Wang S, Liang Y, Zhang J, Wang W, Hong Y, Sun M, Shu J, Chen K. The angiogenic genes predict prognosis and immune characteristics in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: Evidence from multi-omics and experimental verification. Front Oncol 2022; 12:961634. [PMID: 36158681 PMCID: PMC9492853 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.961634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Esophageal squamous cell carcinomas (ESCC) is an aggressive disease with five-year overall survival (OS) <15%. The main cause is metastasis rather than local tumor, and angiogenesis plays an important role. Angiogenesis has a significant impact on tumor metastasis, treatment and prognosis. However, the expression pattern of angiogenic genes, its effect on treatment and its relationship with prognosis in ESCC have not been systematically reported. We performed the first and most comprehensive multi-omics analysis of angiogenic genes in patients with ESCC and identified four angiogenic phenotypes that vary in outcome, tumor characteristics, and immune landscape. These subtypes provide not only patient outcomes but also key information that will help to identify immune blocking therapy. In addition, angiogenesis intensity score (AIS) was proposed to quantify tumor angiogenesis ability, and its accuracy as a predictor of prognosis and immunotherapy was verified by external cohort and corresponding cell lines. Our study provides clinicians with guidance for individualized immune checkpoint blocking therapy and anti-angiogenic therapy for ESCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuaiyuan Wang
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Tumor Pathology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yinghao Liang
- Henan Institute of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jiaxin Zhang
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wenjia Wang
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yichen Hong
- Henan Institute of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Miaomiao Sun
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Institute of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jiao Shu
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Kuisheng Chen
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Tumor Pathology, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Kuisheng Chen,
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20
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Rivera-Caraballo KA, Nair M, Lee TJ, Kaur B, Yoo JY. The complex relationship between integrins and oncolytic herpes Simplex Virus 1 in high-grade glioma therapeutics. Mol Ther Oncolytics 2022; 26:63-75. [PMID: 35795093 PMCID: PMC9233184 DOI: 10.1016/j.omto.2022.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
High-grade gliomas (HGGs) are lethal central nervous system tumors that spread quickly through the brain, making treatment challenging. Integrins are transmembrane receptors that mediate cell-extracellular matrix (ECM) interactions, cellular adhesion, migration, growth, and survival. Their upregulation and inverse correlation in HGG malignancy make targeting integrins a viable therapeutic option. Integrins also play a role in herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) entry. Oncolytic HSV-1 (oHSV) is the most clinically advanced oncolytic virotherapy, showing a superior safety and efficacy profile over standard cancer treatment of solid cancers, including HGG. With the FDA-approval of oHSV for melanoma and the recent conditional approval of oHSV for malignant glioma in Japan, usage of oHSV for HGG has become of great interest. In this review, we provide a systematic overview of the role of integrins in relation to oHSV, with a special focus on its therapeutic potential against HGG. We discuss the pros and cons of targeting integrins during oHSV therapy: while integrins play a pro-therapeutic role by acting as a gateway for oHSV entry, they also mediate the innate antiviral immune responses that hinder oHSV therapeutic efficacy. We further discuss alternative strategies to regulate the dual functionality of integrins in the context of oHSV therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly Ann Rivera-Caraballo
- Department of Neurosurgery, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Mitra Nair
- Department of Neurosurgery, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Tae Jin Lee
- Department of Neurosurgery, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Balveen Kaur
- Department of Neurosurgery, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA,Corresponding author Balveen Kaur, The Vivian L. Smith Department of Neurosurgery, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, 6431 Fannin St., MSE R164, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| | - Ji Young Yoo
- Department of Neurosurgery, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA,Corresponding author Dr. Ji Young Yoo, The Vivian L. Smith Department of Neurosurgery, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, 6431 Fannin St., MSE R117A, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
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21
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Qiao D, Xing J, Duan Y, Wang S, Yao G, Zhang S, Jin J, Lin Z, Chen L, Piao Y. The molecular mechanism of baicalein repressing progression of gastric cancer mediating miR-7/FAK/AKT signaling pathway. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 100:154046. [PMID: 35306368 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2022.154046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Revised: 02/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Baicalein (BAI) has a significant anti-cancerous function in the treatment of gastric cancer (GC). Focal adhesion kinase (FAK) is a key regulatory molecule in integrin and growth factor receptor mediated signaling. MicroRNA-7 (miR-7), has been considered as a potential tumor suppressor in a variety of cancers. However, the possible mechanisms by which BAI inhibiting progression of gastric cancer mediating miR-7/FAK/AKT signaling pathway remain unclear. PURPOSE To investigate the molecular mechanism and effects of BAI inhibiting progression of gastric cancer mediating miR-7/FAK/AKT signaling pathway. METHODS Gastric cancer cell lines with FAK knockdown and overexpression were constructed by lentivirus transfection. After BAI treatment, the effects of FAK protein on proliferation, metastasis and angiogenesis of gastric cancer cells were detected by MTT, EdU, colony formation, wound healing, transwell and Matrigel tube formation assays. In vivo experiment was performed by xenograft model. Immunofluorescence and western blot assay were used to detect the effects of FAK protein on the expression levels of EMT markers and PI3K/AKT signaling pathway related proteins. qRT-PCR and luciferase reporter assay were used to clarify the targeting relationship between miR-7 and FAK. RESULTS BAI can regulate FAK to affect proliferation, metastasis and angiogenesis of gastric cancer cells through PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. qRT-PCR showed BAI can upregulated the expression of miR-7 and luciferase reporter assay showed the targeting relationship between miR-7 and FAK. Additionally, miR-7 mediates cell proliferation, metastasis and angiogenesis by directly targeting FAK 3'UTR to inhibit FAK expression. CONCLUSION BAI repressing progression of gastric cancer mediating miR-7/FAK/AKT signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Qiao
- Cancer Research Center, Yanbian University Medical College, Key Laboratory of Pathobiology (Yanbian University), State Ethnic Affairs Commission, Research and Innovation Group of Yanbian University, Yanji, P.R. China
| | - Jian Xing
- Department of Image, Hongqi Hospital of Mudanjiang Medical University, Mudanjiang 157011, P.R. China
| | - Yunxiao Duan
- Cancer Research Center, Yanbian University Medical College, Key Laboratory of Pathobiology (Yanbian University), State Ethnic Affairs Commission, Research and Innovation Group of Yanbian University, Yanji, P.R. China
| | - Shiyu Wang
- Cancer Research Center, Yanbian University Medical College, Key Laboratory of Pathobiology (Yanbian University), State Ethnic Affairs Commission, Research and Innovation Group of Yanbian University, Yanji, P.R. China
| | - Guangyuan Yao
- Cancer Research Center, Yanbian University Medical College, Key Laboratory of Pathobiology (Yanbian University), State Ethnic Affairs Commission, Research and Innovation Group of Yanbian University, Yanji, P.R. China
| | - Shengjun Zhang
- Cancer Research Center, Yanbian University Medical College, Key Laboratory of Pathobiology (Yanbian University), State Ethnic Affairs Commission, Research and Innovation Group of Yanbian University, Yanji, P.R. China
| | - Jingchun Jin
- Cancer Research Center, Yanbian University Medical College, Key Laboratory of Pathobiology (Yanbian University), State Ethnic Affairs Commission, Research and Innovation Group of Yanbian University, Yanji, P.R. China; Department of Internal Medicine of Yanbian University Hospital, Yanji 133000, P.R. China
| | - Zhenhua Lin
- Cancer Research Center, Yanbian University Medical College, Key Laboratory of Pathobiology (Yanbian University), State Ethnic Affairs Commission, Research and Innovation Group of Yanbian University, Yanji, P.R. China; Department of Internal Medicine of Yanbian University Hospital, Yanji 133000, P.R. China
| | - Liyan Chen
- Cancer Research Center, Yanbian University Medical College, Key Laboratory of Pathobiology (Yanbian University), State Ethnic Affairs Commission, Research and Innovation Group of Yanbian University, Yanji, P.R. China
| | - Yingshi Piao
- Cancer Research Center, Yanbian University Medical College, Key Laboratory of Pathobiology (Yanbian University), State Ethnic Affairs Commission, Research and Innovation Group of Yanbian University, Yanji, P.R. China.
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22
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MicroRNA-766-3p-mediated downregulation of HNF4G inhibits proliferation in colorectal cancer cells through the PI3K/AKT pathway. Cancer Gene Ther 2022; 29:803-813. [PMID: 34158627 DOI: 10.1038/s41417-021-00362-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2020] [Revised: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Nuclear receptors (NRs) are a class of transcription factors that play a pivotal role in carcinogenesis, but their function in colorectal cancer (CRC) remains unclear. Here, we investigate the role NRs play in CRC pathogenesis. We found that hepatocyte nuclear factor 4 gamma (HNF4G; NR2A2), hepatocyte nuclear factor 4α (HNF4A; NR2A1), and retinoid-related orphan receptor γ (RORC; NR1F3) were significantly upregulated in CRC tissues analyzed by GEPIA bioinformatics tool. The expression of HNF4G was examined in CRC samples and cell lines by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and immunohistochemistry. Increased expression of HNF4G was strongly associated with high tumor-node-metastasis stage and poor prognosis. Moreover, overexpression of HNF4G significantly promoted the proliferation of CRC cells in vitro. Next, we found that HNF4G promoted CRC proliferation via the PI3K/AKT pathway through targeting of GNG12 and PTK2. In addition, HNF4G was verified as a direct target of microRNA-766-3p (miR-766-3p). miR-766-3p inhibited the proliferation of CRC cells by targeting HNF4G in vitro and in vivo. Collectively, our study indicates that miR-766-3p reduces the proliferation of CRC cells by targeting HNF4G expression and thus inhibits the PI3K/AKT pathway. Therefore, development of therapies which target the miR-766-3p/HNF4G axis may aid in the treatment of CRC.
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The amyloid peptide β disrupts intercellular junctions and increases endothelial permeability in a NADPH oxidase 1-dependent manner. Redox Biol 2022; 52:102287. [PMID: 35358850 PMCID: PMC8966210 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2022.102287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Revised: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia and is associated with the accumulation of amyloid peptide β in the brain parenchyma. Vascular damage and microvascular thrombosis contribute to the neuronal degeneration and the loss of brain function typical of this disease. In this study, we utilised a murine model of Alzheimer's disease to evaluate the neurovascular effects of this disease. Upon detection of an increase in the phosphorylation of the endothelial surface receptor VE-cadherin, we focused our attention on endothelial cells and utilised two types of human endothelial cells cultured in vitro: 1) human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and 2) human brain microvascular endothelial cells (hBMECs). Using an electrical current impedance system (ECIS) and FITC-albumin permeability assays, we discovered that the treatment of human endothelial cells with amyloid peptide β causes a loss in their barrier function, which is oxidative stress-dependent and similarly to our observation in mouse brain associates with VE-cadherin phosphorylation. The activation of the superoxide anion-generating enzyme NADPH oxidase 1 is responsible for the oxidative stress that leads to the disruption of barrier function in human endothelial cells in vitro. In summary, we have identified a novel molecular mechanism explaining how the accumulation of amyloid peptide β in the brain parenchyma may induce the loss of neurovascular barrier function, which has been observed in patients. Neurovascular leakiness plays an important role in brain inflammation and neuronal degeneration driving the progression of the Alzheimer's disease. Therefore, this study provides a novel and promising target for the development of a pharmacological treatment to protect neurovascular function and reduce the progression of the neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's patients. Amyloid peptide β induces oxidative changes in mouse hippocampus. The endothelial barrier function is impaired by amyloid peptide β. Oxidative stress is critical for the increase in endothelial monolayer permeability. NADPH oxidase 1 mediates the endothelial barrier damage caused by amyloid peptide β.
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24
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Roy-Luzarraga M, Reynolds LE, de Luxán-Delgado B, Maiques O, Wisniewski L, Newport E, Rajeeve V, Drake RJ, Gómez-Escudero J, Richards FM, Weller C, Dormann C, Meng YM, Vermeulen PB, Saur D, Sanz-Moreno V, Wong PP, Géraud C, Cutillas PR, Hodivala-Dilke K. Suppression of Endothelial Cell FAK Expression Reduces Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma Metastasis after Gemcitabine Treatment. Cancer Res 2022; 82:1909-1925. [PMID: 35350066 PMCID: PMC9381116 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-20-3807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Despite substantial advances in the treatment of solid cancers, resistance to therapy remains a major obstacle to prolonged progression-free survival. Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the most aggressive cancers, with a high level of liver metastasis. Primary PDAC is highly hypoxic, and metastases are resistant to first-line treatment, including gemcitabine. Recent studies have indicated that endothelial cell (EC) focal adhesion kinase (FAK) regulates DNA-damaging therapy-induced angiocrine factors and chemosensitivity in primary tumor models. Here, we show that inducible loss of EC-FAK in both orthotopic and spontaneous mouse models of PDAC is not sufficient to affect primary tumor growth but reduces liver and lung metastasis load and improves survival rates in gemcitabine-treated, but not untreated, mice. EC-FAK loss did not affect primary tumor angiogenesis, tumor blood vessel leakage, or early events in metastasis, including the numbers of circulating tumor cells, tumor cell homing, or metastatic seeding. Phosphoproteomics analysis showed a downregulation of the MAPK, RAF, and PAK signaling pathways in gemcitabine-treated FAK-depleted ECs compared with gemcitabine-treated wild-type ECs. Moreover, low levels of EC-FAK correlated with increased survival and reduced relapse in gemcitabine-treated patients with PDAC, supporting the clinical relevance of these findings. Altogether, we have identified a new role of EC-FAK in regulating PDAC metastasis upon gemcitabine treatment that impacts outcome. SIGNIFICANCE These findings establish the potential utility of combinatorial endothelial cell FAK targeting together with gemcitabine in future clinical applications to control metastasis in patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Roy-Luzarraga
- Barts Cancer Institute—A CR-UK Center of Excellence, Queen Mary University of London, John Vane Science Center, Charterhouse Square, London, United Kingdom
| | - Louise E. Reynolds
- Barts Cancer Institute—A CR-UK Center of Excellence, Queen Mary University of London, John Vane Science Center, Charterhouse Square, London, United Kingdom
| | - Beatriz de Luxán-Delgado
- Barts Cancer Institute—A CR-UK Center of Excellence, Queen Mary University of London, John Vane Science Center, Charterhouse Square, London, United Kingdom
| | - Oscar Maiques
- Barts Cancer Institute—A CR-UK Center of Excellence, Queen Mary University of London, John Vane Science Center, Charterhouse Square, London, United Kingdom
| | - Laura Wisniewski
- Barts Cancer Institute—A CR-UK Center of Excellence, Queen Mary University of London, John Vane Science Center, Charterhouse Square, London, United Kingdom
| | - Emma Newport
- Barts Cancer Institute—A CR-UK Center of Excellence, Queen Mary University of London, John Vane Science Center, Charterhouse Square, London, United Kingdom
| | - Vinothini Rajeeve
- Barts Cancer Institute—A CR-UK Center of Excellence, Queen Mary University of London, John Vane Science Center, Charterhouse Square, London, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca J.G. Drake
- Barts Cancer Institute—A CR-UK Center of Excellence, Queen Mary University of London, John Vane Science Center, Charterhouse Square, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jesús Gómez-Escudero
- Barts Cancer Institute—A CR-UK Center of Excellence, Queen Mary University of London, John Vane Science Center, Charterhouse Square, London, United Kingdom
| | - Frances M. Richards
- Translational Medicine Operations, Astrazeneca Oncology, Darwin Building, Cambridge Science Park, Milton Road, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Céline Weller
- Department of Dermatology, Section of Clinical and Molecular Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Medical Center and European Center for Angioscience, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Christof Dormann
- Department of Dermatology, Section of Clinical and Molecular Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Medical Center and European Center for Angioscience, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Ya-Ming Meng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Peter B. Vermeulen
- Department of Oncological Research, Translational Cancer Research Unit, Oncology Center GZA—GZA Hospitals St. Augustinus and University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Dieter Saur
- Division of Translational Cancer Research, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) and German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Heidelberg and Chair of Translational Cancer Research and Institute for Experimental Cancer Therapy, Klinikum rechts der Isar, School of Medicine, Technische Universität München, München, Germany
| | - Victoria Sanz-Moreno
- Barts Cancer Institute—A CR-UK Center of Excellence, Queen Mary University of London, John Vane Science Center, Charterhouse Square, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ping-Pui Wong
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Cyrill Géraud
- Department of Dermatology, Section of Clinical and Molecular Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, University Medical Center and European Center for Angioscience, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Pedro R. Cutillas
- Barts Cancer Institute—A CR-UK Center of Excellence, Queen Mary University of London, John Vane Science Center, Charterhouse Square, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kairbaan Hodivala-Dilke
- Barts Cancer Institute—A CR-UK Center of Excellence, Queen Mary University of London, John Vane Science Center, Charterhouse Square, London, United Kingdom
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25
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Ozmadenci D, Shankara Narayanan JS, Andrew J, Ojalill M, Barrie AM, Jiang S, Iyer S, Chen XL, Rose M, Estrada V, Molinolo A, Bertotto T, Mikulski Z, McHale MC, White RR, Connolly DC, Pachter JA, Kuchroo VK, Stupack DG, Schlaepfer DD. Tumor FAK orchestrates immunosuppression in ovarian cancer via the CD155/TIGIT axis. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2117065119. [PMID: 35467979 PMCID: PMC9169934 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2117065119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
High-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) is a lethal malignancy characterized by an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment containing few tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and an insensitivity to checkpoint inhibitor immunotherapies. Gains in the PTK2 gene encoding focal adhesion kinase (FAK) at Chr8 q24.3 occur in ∼70% of HGSOC tumors, and elevated FAK messenger RNA (mRNA) levels are associated with poor patient survival. Herein, we show that active FAK, phosphorylated at tyrosine-576 within catalytic domain, is significantly increased in late-stage HGSOC tumors. Active FAK costained with CD155, a checkpoint receptor ligand for TIGIT (T cell immunoreceptor with immunoglobulin and immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibitory motif domains), in HGSOC tumors and a selective association between FAK and TIGIT checkpoint ligands were supported by patient transcriptomic database analysis. HGSOC tumors with high FAK expression were associated with low CD3 mRNA levels. Accordingly, late-stage tumors showed elevated active FAK staining and significantly lower levels of CD3+ TILs. Using the KMF (Kras, Myc, FAK) syngeneic ovarian tumor model containing spontaneous PTK2 (FAK) gene gains, the effects of tumor intrinsic genetic or oral small molecule FAK inhibitior (FAKi; VS-4718) were evaluated in vivo. Blocking FAK activity decreased tumor burden, suppressed ascites KMF-associated CD155 levels, and increased peritoneal TILs. The combination of FAKi with blocking TIGIT antibody (1B4) maintained elevated TIL levels and reduced TIGIT+ T regulatory cell levels, prolonged host survival, increased CXCL13 levels, and led to the formation of omental tertiary lymphoid structures. Collectively, our studies support FAK and TIGIT targeting as a rationale immunotherapy combination for HGSOC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duygu Ozmadenci
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Moores University of California San Diego (UCSD) Cancer Center, La Jolla, CA 92093
| | | | - Jacob Andrew
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Moores University of California San Diego (UCSD) Cancer Center, La Jolla, CA 92093
| | - Marjaana Ojalill
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Moores University of California San Diego (UCSD) Cancer Center, La Jolla, CA 92093
| | - Allison M. Barrie
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Moores University of California San Diego (UCSD) Cancer Center, La Jolla, CA 92093
| | - Shulin Jiang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Moores University of California San Diego (UCSD) Cancer Center, La Jolla, CA 92093
| | - Samhita Iyer
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Moores University of California San Diego (UCSD) Cancer Center, La Jolla, CA 92093
| | - Xiao Lei Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian 361102, China
| | - Michael Rose
- Department of Pathology, Moores UCSD Cancer Center, La Jolla, CA 92093
| | - Valeria Estrada
- Department of Pathology, Moores UCSD Cancer Center, La Jolla, CA 92093
| | - Alfredo Molinolo
- Department of Pathology, Moores UCSD Cancer Center, La Jolla, CA 92093
| | - Thomas Bertotto
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Moores University of California San Diego (UCSD) Cancer Center, La Jolla, CA 92093
| | - Zbigniew Mikulski
- Microscopy Core, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA 92037
| | - Michael C. McHale
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Moores University of California San Diego (UCSD) Cancer Center, La Jolla, CA 92093
| | - Rebekah R. White
- Department of Surgery, Moores UCSD Cancer Center, La Jolla, CA 92093
| | - Denise C. Connolly
- Developmental Therapeutics Program, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA 19111
| | | | - Vijay K. Kuchroo
- Evergrande Center, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Dwayne G. Stupack
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Moores University of California San Diego (UCSD) Cancer Center, La Jolla, CA 92093
| | - David D. Schlaepfer
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Moores University of California San Diego (UCSD) Cancer Center, La Jolla, CA 92093
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26
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FAK in Cancer: From Mechanisms to Therapeutic Strategies. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031726. [PMID: 35163650 PMCID: PMC8836199 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Revised: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Focal adhesion kinase (FAK), a non-receptor tyrosine kinase, is overexpressed and activated in many cancer types. FAK regulates diverse cellular processes, including growth factor signaling, cell cycle progression, cell survival, cell motility, angiogenesis, and the establishment of immunosuppressive tumor microenvironments through kinase-dependent and kinase-independent scaffolding functions in the cytoplasm and nucleus. Mounting evidence has indicated that targeting FAK, either alone or in combination with other agents, may represent a promising therapeutic strategy for various cancers. In this review, we summarize the mechanisms underlying FAK-mediated signaling networks during tumor development. We also summarize the recent progress of FAK-targeted small-molecule compounds for anticancer activity from preclinical and clinical evidence.
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27
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Newport E, Pedrosa AR, Lees D, Dukinfield M, Carter E, Gomez-Escudero J, Casado P, Rajeeve V, Reynolds LE, R Cutillas P, Duffy SW, De Luxán Delgado B, Hodivala-Dilke K. Elucidating the role of the kinase activity of endothelial cell focal adhesion kinase in angiocrine signalling and tumour growth. J Pathol 2022; 256:235-247. [PMID: 34743335 DOI: 10.1002/path.5833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
A common limitation of cancer treatments is chemotherapy resistance. We have previously identified that endothelial cell (EC)-specific deletion of focal adhesion kinase (FAK) sensitises tumour cells to DNA-damaging therapies, reducing tumour growth in mice. The present study addressed the kinase activity dependency of EC FAK sensitisation to the DNA-damaging chemotherapeutic drug, doxorubicin. FAK is recognised as a therapeutic target in tumour cells, leading to the development of a range of inhibitors, the majority being ATP competitive kinase inhibitors. We demonstrate that inactivation of EC FAK kinase domain (kinase dead; EC FAK-KD) in established subcutaneous B16F0 tumours improves melanoma cell sensitisation to doxorubicin. Doxorubicin treatment in EC FAK-KD mice reduced the percentage change in exponential B16F0 tumour growth further than in wild-type mice. There was no difference in tumour blood vessel numbers, vessel perfusion or doxorubicin delivery between genotypes, suggesting a possible angiocrine effect on the regulation of tumour growth. Doxorubicin reduced perivascular malignant cell proliferation, while enhancing perivascular tumour cell apoptosis and DNA damage in tumours grown in EC FAK-KD mice 48 h after doxorubicin injection. Human pulmonary microvascular ECs treated with the pharmacological FAK kinase inhibitors defactinib, PF-562,271 or PF-573,228 in combination with doxorubicin also reduced cytokine expression levels. Together, these data suggest that targeting EC FAK kinase activity may alter angiocrine signals that correlate with improved acute tumour cell chemosensitisation. © 2021 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
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MESH Headings
- Angiogenesis Inhibitors/pharmacology
- Animals
- Antibiotics, Antineoplastic/pharmacology
- Apoptosis
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Cell Proliferation
- Cytokines/metabolism
- Doxorubicin/pharmacology
- Drug Resistance, Neoplasm
- Endothelial Cells/enzymology
- Female
- Focal Adhesion Kinase 1/antagonists & inhibitors
- Focal Adhesion Kinase 1/genetics
- Focal Adhesion Kinase 1/metabolism
- Humans
- Male
- Melanoma, Experimental/drug therapy
- Melanoma, Experimental/enzymology
- Melanoma, Experimental/genetics
- Melanoma, Experimental/pathology
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Mice, Knockout
- Neovascularization, Physiologic
- Protein Kinase Inhibitors/pharmacology
- Signal Transduction
- Skin Neoplasms/drug therapy
- Skin Neoplasms/enzymology
- Skin Neoplasms/genetics
- Skin Neoplasms/pathology
- Tumor Burden
- Mice
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Newport
- Centre for Tumour Microenvironment, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, John Vane Science Centre, London, UK
| | - Ana Rita Pedrosa
- Centre for Tumour Microenvironment, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, John Vane Science Centre, London, UK
| | - Delphine Lees
- Centre for Tumour Microenvironment, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, John Vane Science Centre, London, UK
| | - Matthew Dukinfield
- Centre for Tumour Microenvironment, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, John Vane Science Centre, London, UK
| | - Edward Carter
- Centre for Tumour Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, John Vane Science Centre, London, UK
| | - Jesus Gomez-Escudero
- Centre for Tumour Microenvironment, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, John Vane Science Centre, London, UK
| | - Pedro Casado
- Centre for Genomics and Computational Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, John Vane Science Centre, London, UK
| | - Vinothini Rajeeve
- Centre for Genomics and Computational Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, John Vane Science Centre, London, UK
| | - Louise E Reynolds
- Centre for Tumour Microenvironment, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, John Vane Science Centre, London, UK
| | - Pedro R Cutillas
- Centre for Genomics and Computational Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, John Vane Science Centre, London, UK
| | | | - Beatriz De Luxán Delgado
- Centre for Tumour Microenvironment, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, John Vane Science Centre, London, UK
| | - Kairbaan Hodivala-Dilke
- Centre for Tumour Microenvironment, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, John Vane Science Centre, London, UK
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28
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Kim H, Shin Y, Kim DH. Mechanobiological Implications of Cancer Progression in Space. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:740009. [PMID: 34957091 PMCID: PMC8692837 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.740009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The human body is normally adapted to maintain homeostasis in a terrestrial environment. The novel conditions of a space environment introduce challenges that changes the cellular response to its surroundings. Such an alteration causes physical changes in the extracellular microenvironment, inducing the secretion of cytokines such as interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor growth factor-β (TGF-β) from cancer cells to enhance cancer malignancy. Cancer is one of the most prominent cell types to be affected by mechanical cues via active interaction with the tumor microenvironment. However, the mechanism by which cancer cells mechanotransduce in the space environment, as well as the influence of this process on human health, have not been fully elucidated. Due to the growing interest in space biology, this article reviews cancer cell responses to the representative conditions altered in space: microgravity, decompression, and irradiation. Interestingly, cytokine and gene expression that assist in tumor survival, invasive phenotypic transformation, and cancer cell proliferation are upregulated when exposed to both simulated and actual space conditions. The necessity of further research on space mechanobiology such as simulating more complex in vivo experiments or finding other mechanical cues that may be encountered during spaceflight are emphasized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyondeog Kim
- KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Yun Shin
- Division of Life Sciences, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Dong-Hwee Kim
- KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea.,Department of Integrative Energy Engineering, College of Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
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29
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Wu Y, Li N, Ye C, Jiang X, Luo H, Zhang B, Zhang Y, Zhang Q. Focal adhesion kinase inhibitors, a heavy punch to cancer. Discov Oncol 2021; 12:52. [PMID: 35201485 PMCID: PMC8777493 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-021-00449-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Kinases are the ideal druggable targets for diseases and especially were highlighted on cancer therapy. Focal adhesion kinase (FAK) is a non-receptor tyrosine kinase and its aberrant signaling extensively implicates in the progression of most cancer types, involving in cancer cell growth, adhesion, migration, and tumor microenvironment (TME) remodeling. FAK is commonly overexpressed and activated in a variety of cancers and plays as a targetable kinase in cancer therapy. FAK inhibitors already exhibited promising performance in preclinical and early-stage clinical trials. Moreover, substantial evidence has implied that targeting FAK is more effective in combination strategy, thereby reversing the failure of chemotherapies or targeted therapies in solid tumors. In the current review, we summarized the drug development progress, chemotherapy strategy, and perspective view for FAK inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yueling Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524001, China
- Graduate School of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524023, China
| | - Ning Li
- Graduate School of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524023, China
| | - Chengfeng Ye
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524001, China
- Graduate School of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524023, China
| | - Xingmei Jiang
- Graduate School of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524023, China
- The Marine Biomedical Research Institute, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524023, China
| | - Hui Luo
- The Marine Biomedical Research Institute, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524023, China
| | - Baoyuan Zhang
- Shanghai Institute of Hematology, State Key Laboratory for Medical Genomics, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200025, China.
| | - Ying Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524001, China.
| | - Qingyu Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524001, China.
- The Marine Biomedical Research Institute, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang, 524023, China.
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30
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Jesser EA, Brady NJ, Huggins DN, Witschen PM, O'Connor CH, Schwertfeger KL. STAT5 is activated in macrophages by breast cancer cell-derived factors and regulates macrophage function in the tumor microenvironment. Breast Cancer Res 2021; 23:104. [PMID: 34743736 PMCID: PMC8573892 DOI: 10.1186/s13058-021-01481-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In breast cancer, complex interactions between tumor cells and cells within the surrounding stroma, such as macrophages, are critical for tumor growth, progression, and therapeutic response. Recent studies have highlighted the complex nature and heterogeneous populations of macrophages associated with both tumor-promoting and tumor-inhibiting phenotypes. Defining the pathways that drive macrophage function is important for understanding their complex phenotypes within the tumor microenvironment. Signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) transcription factors, such as STAT5, are key regulators of immune cell function. The studies described here investigate the functional contributions of STAT5 to tumor-associated macrophage function in breast cancer. METHODS Initial studies were performed using a panel of human breast cancer and mouse mammary tumor cell lines to determine the ability of tumor cell-derived factors to induce STAT5 activation in macrophages. Further studies used these models to identify soluble factors that activate STAT5 in macrophages. To delineate STAT5-specific contributions to macrophage function, a conditional model of myeloid STAT5 deletion was used for in vitro, RNA-sequencing, and in vivo studies. The effects of STAT5 deletion in macrophages on tumor cell migration and metastasis were evaluated using in vitro co-culture migration assays and an in vivo tumor cell-macrophage co-injection model. RESULTS We demonstrate here that STAT5 is robustly activated in macrophages by tumor cell-derived factors and that GM-CSF is a key cytokine stimulating this pathway. The analysis of RNA-seq studies reveals that STAT5 promotes expression of immune stimulatory genes in macrophages and that loss of STAT5 in macrophages results in increased expression of tissue remodeling factors. Finally, we demonstrate that loss of STAT5 in macrophages promotes tumor cell migration in vitro and mammary tumor metastasis in vivo. CONCLUSIONS Breast cancer cells produce soluble factors, such as GM-CSF, that activate the STAT5 pathway in macrophages and drive expression of inflammatory factors. STAT5 deletion in myeloid cells enhances metastasis, suggesting that STAT5 activation in tumor-associated macrophages protects against tumor progression. Understanding mechanisms that drive macrophage function in the tumor microenvironment will ultimately lead to new approaches that suppress tumor-promoting functions while enhancing their anti-tumor functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily A Jesser
- Microbiology, Immunology and Cancer Biology Graduate Program, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Nicholas J Brady
- Microbiology, Immunology and Cancer Biology Graduate Program, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10021, USA
| | - Danielle N Huggins
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, 6Th St SE, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Patrice M Witschen
- Comparative and Molecular Biosciences Graduate Program, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, USA
| | - Christine H O'Connor
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, 6Th St SE, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
- University of Minnesota Supercomputing Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Kathryn L Schwertfeger
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, 6Th St SE, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA.
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA.
- Center for Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, USA.
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31
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Rodenburg WS, van Buul JD. Rho GTPase signalling networks in cancer cell transendothelial migration. VASCULAR BIOLOGY 2021; 3:R77-R95. [PMID: 34738075 PMCID: PMC8558887 DOI: 10.1530/vb-21-0008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Rho GTPases are small signalling G-proteins that are central regulators of cytoskeleton dynamics, and thereby regulate many cellular processes, including the shape, adhesion and migration of cells. As such, Rho GTPases are also essential for the invasive behaviour of cancer cells, and thus involved in several steps of the metastatic cascade, including the extravasation of cancer cells. Extravasation, the process by which cancer cells leave the circulation by transmigrating through the endothelium that lines capillary walls, is an essential step for metastasis towards distant organs. During extravasation, Rho GTPase signalling networks not only regulate the transmigration of cancer cells but also regulate the interactions between cancer and endothelial cells and are involved in the disruption of the endothelial barrier function, ultimately allowing cancer cells to extravasate into the underlying tissue and potentially form metastases. Thus, targeting Rho GTPase signalling networks in cancer may be an effective approach to inhibit extravasation and metastasis. In this review, the complex process of cancer cell extravasation will be discussed in detail. Additionally, the roles and regulation of Rho GTPase signalling networks during cancer cell extravasation will be discussed, both from a cancer cell and endothelial cell point of view.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wessel S Rodenburg
- Molecular Cell Biology Lab at Department of Molecular Hematology, Sanquin Research and Landsteiner Laboratory, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jaap D van Buul
- Molecular Cell Biology Lab at Department of Molecular Hematology, Sanquin Research and Landsteiner Laboratory, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,Leeuwenhoek Centre for Advanced Microscopy, Section Molecular Cytology at Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences at University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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FAK inhibitors as promising anticancer targets: present and future directions. Future Med Chem 2021; 13:1559-1590. [PMID: 34340532 DOI: 10.4155/fmc-2021-0015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
FAK, a nonreceptor tyrosine kinase, has been recognized as a novel target class for the development of targeted anticancer agents. Overexpression of FAK is a common occurrence in several solid tumors, in which the kinase has been implicated in promoting metastases. Consequently, designing and developing potent FAK inhibitors is becoming an attractive goal, and FAK inhibitors are being recognized as a promising tool in our armamentarium for treating diverse cancers. This review comprehensively summarizes the different classes of synthetically derived compounds that have been reported as potent FAK inhibitors in the last three decades. Finally, the future of FAK-targeting smart drugs that are designed to slow down the emergence of drug resistance is discussed.
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Belhabib I, Zaghdoudi S, Lac C, Bousquet C, Jean C. Extracellular Matrices and Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts: Targets for Cancer Diagnosis and Therapy? Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:3466. [PMID: 34298680 PMCID: PMC8303391 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13143466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Solid cancer progression is dictated by neoplastic cell features and pro-tumoral crosstalks with their microenvironment. Stroma modifications, such as fibroblast activation into cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, are now recognized as critical events for cancer progression and as potential therapeutic or diagnostic targets. The recent appreciation of the key, complex and multiple roles of the ECM in cancer and of the CAF diversity, has revolutionized the field and raised innovative but challenging questions. Here, we rapidly present CAF heterogeneity in link with their specific ECM remodeling features observed in cancer, before developing each of the impacts of such ECM modifications on tumor progression (survival, angiogenesis, pre-metastatic niche, chemoresistance, etc.), and on patient prognosis. Finally, based on preclinical studies and recent results obtained from clinical trials, we highlight key mechanisms or proteins that are, or may be, used as potential therapeutic or diagnostic targets, and we report and discuss benefits, disappointments, or even failures, of recently reported stroma-targeting strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Christine Jean
- Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de Toulouse (CRCT), INSERM U1037, Université Toulouse III Paul Sabatier, ERL5294 CNRS, 31037 Toulouse, France; (I.B.); (S.Z.); (C.L.); (C.B.)
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Godinho-Pereira J, Garcia AR, Figueira I, Malhó R, Brito MA. Behind Brain Metastases Formation: Cellular and Molecular Alterations and Blood-Brain Barrier Disruption. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:7057. [PMID: 34209088 PMCID: PMC8268492 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22137057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) brain metastases is a life-threatening condition to which accounts the poor understanding of BC cells' (BCCs) extravasation into the brain, precluding the development of preventive strategies. Thus, we aimed to unravel the players involved in the interaction between BCCs and blood-brain barrier (BBB) endothelial cells underlying BBB alterations and the transendothelial migration of malignant cells. We used brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMECs) as a BBB in vitro model, under conditions mimicking shear stress to improve in vivo-like BBB features. Mixed cultures were performed by the addition of fluorescently labelled BCCs to distinguish individual cell populations. BCC-BMEC interaction compromised BBB integrity, as revealed by junctional proteins (β-catenin and zonula occludens-1) disruption and caveolae (caveolin-1) increase, reflecting paracellular and transcellular hyperpermeability, respectively. Both BMECs and BCCs presented alterations in the expression pattern of connexin 43, suggesting the involvement of the gap junction protein. Myosin light chain kinase and phosphorylated myosin light chain were upregulated, revealing the involvement of the endothelial cytoskeleton in the extravasation process. β4-Integrin and focal adhesion kinase were colocalised in malignant cells, reflecting molecular interaction. Moreover, BCCs exhibited invadopodia, attesting migratory properties. Collectively, hub players involved in BC brain metastases formation were unveiled, disclosing possible therapeutic targets for metastases prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Godinho-Pereira
- iMed.ULisboa—Research Institute for Medicines, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal; (J.G.-P.); (A.R.G.); (I.F.)
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Medicines, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ana Rita Garcia
- iMed.ULisboa—Research Institute for Medicines, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal; (J.G.-P.); (A.R.G.); (I.F.)
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Medicines, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Inês Figueira
- iMed.ULisboa—Research Institute for Medicines, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal; (J.G.-P.); (A.R.G.); (I.F.)
- Farm-ID—Faculty of Pharmacy Association for Research and Development, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Rui Malhó
- BioISI—Biosystems and Integrative Sciences Institute, Faculty of Sciences, Universidade de Lisboa, Campo Grande 016, 1749-016 Lisbon, Portugal;
| | - Maria Alexandra Brito
- iMed.ULisboa—Research Institute for Medicines, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal; (J.G.-P.); (A.R.G.); (I.F.)
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Medicines, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisbon, Portugal
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Richards M, Pal S, Sjöberg E, Martinsson P, Venkatraman L, Claesson-Welsh L. Intra-vessel heterogeneity establishes enhanced sites of macromolecular leakage downstream of laminin α5. Cell Rep 2021; 35:109268. [PMID: 34161758 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.109268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Revised: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Endothelial cells display heterogeneous properties based on location and function. How this heterogeneity influences endothelial barrier stability both between and within vessel subtypes is unexplored. In this study, we find that endothelial cells exhibit heterogeneous barrier properties on inter-organ and intra-vessel levels. Using intravital microscopy and sequential stimulation of the ear dermis with vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGFA) and/or histamine, we observe distinct, reappearing sites, common for both agonists, where leakage preferentially takes place. Through repetitive stimulation of the diaphragm and trachea, we find inter-organ conservation of such predetermined leakage sites. Qualitatively, predetermined sites display distinct leakage properties and enhanced barrier breakdown compared to less susceptible regions. Mechanistically, laminin α5 is reduced at predetermined sites, which is linked to reduced junctional vascular endothelial (VE)-cadherin and enhanced VEGFA-induced VE-cadherin phosphorylation. These data highlight functional intra-vessel heterogeneity that defines predetermined sites with distinct leakage properties and that may disproportionately impact pathological vascular leakage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Richards
- Beijer and Science for Life Laboratories, Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Dag Hammarskjöldsv 20, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Sagnik Pal
- Beijer and Science for Life Laboratories, Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Dag Hammarskjöldsv 20, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Elin Sjöberg
- Beijer and Science for Life Laboratories, Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Dag Hammarskjöldsv 20, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Pernilla Martinsson
- Beijer and Science for Life Laboratories, Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Dag Hammarskjöldsv 20, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Lakshmi Venkatraman
- Beijer and Science for Life Laboratories, Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Dag Hammarskjöldsv 20, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Lena Claesson-Welsh
- Beijer and Science for Life Laboratories, Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Dag Hammarskjöldsv 20, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden.
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Brullo C, Tasso B. New Insights on Fak and Fak Inhibitors. Curr Med Chem 2021; 28:3318-3338. [PMID: 33143618 DOI: 10.2174/0929867327666201103162239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Revised: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Focal adhesion kinase (Fak) is a cytoplasmic protein tyrosine kinase overexpressed and activated in different solid cancers; it has shown an important role in metastasis formation, cell migration, invasion and angiogenesis and consequently it has been proposed as a potential target in cancer therapy, particularly in a metastatic phase. In recent years, different investigations have highlighted the importance of new Fak inhibitors as potential anti-cancer drugs, but other studies evidenced its role in different pathologies related to the cardiac function or viral infection. METHODS An extensive bibliographic research (104 references) has been done concerning the structure of Fak, its importance in tumor development, but also in other pathologies currently under study. The compounds currently subjected to clinical studies were therefore treated using the appropriate databases. Finally, the main chemical scaffolds currently under preclinical investigation were analyzed, focusing on their molecular structures and on the activity structure relationships (SAR). RESULTS At the moment, only a few reversible ATP-competitive inhibitors are under investigation in pre-clinical studies and clinical trials. Other compounds, with different chemical scaffolds, are investigated to obtain more active and selective Fak inhibitors. This mini-review is a summary of different Fak functions in cancer and other pathologies; the compounds today in clinical trials and the recent chemical scaffolds (also included in patents) giving the most interesting results are investigated. In addition, PROTAC molecules are reported. CONCLUSION All reported results evidenced that additional studies are necessary to design and synthesize new selective and more active compounds, although promising information has been obtained from associations between Fak inhibitors and other different anti- cancer drugs. In addition, the other important roles evidenced, both at the nuclear level and in non-cancerous cells, make this protein an increasingly important target in pharmaceutical chemistry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Brullo
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Genova, Viale Benedetto XV, 3-I16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Bruno Tasso
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Genova, Viale Benedetto XV, 3-I16132 Genova, Italy
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37
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OvCa-Chip microsystem recreates vascular endothelium-mediated platelet extravasation in ovarian cancer. Blood Adv 2021; 4:3329-3342. [PMID: 32717032 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2020001632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
In ovarian cancer, platelet extravasation into the tumor and resulting metastasis is thought to be regulated mostly by the vascular endothelium. Because it is difficult to dissect complex underlying events in murine models, organ-on-a-chip methodology is applied to model vascular and platelet functions in ovarian cancer. This system (OvCa-Chip) consists of microfluidic chambers that are lined by human ovarian tumor cells interfaced with a 3-dimensional endothelialized lumen. Subsequent perfusion with human platelets within the device's vascular endothelial compartment under microvascular shear conditions for 5 days uncovered organ-to-molecular-level contributions of the endothelium to triggering platelet extravasation into tumors. Further, analysis of effluents available from the device's individual tumor and endothelial chambers revealed temporal dynamics of vascular disintegration caused by cancer cells, a differential increase in cytokine expression, and an alteration of barrier maintenance genes in endothelial cells. These events, when analyzed within the device over time, made the vascular tissue leaky and promoted platelet extravasation. Atorvastatin treatment of the endothelial cells within the OvCa-Chip revealed improved endothelial barrier function, reduction in inflammatory cytokines and, eventually, arrest of platelet extravasation. These data were validated through corresponding observations in patient-derived tumor samples. The OvCa-Chip provides a novel in vitro dissectible platform to model the mechanisms of the cancer-vascular-hematology nexus and the analyses of potential therapeutics.
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Zhou Q, Jiang J, Chen G, Qian C, Sun G. Inflammatory Immune Cytokine TNF-α Modulates Ezrin Protein Activation via FAK/RhoA Signaling Pathway in PMVECs Hyperpermeability. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:676817. [PMID: 34054551 PMCID: PMC8152434 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.676817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: One of the important pathogenesis of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is the dysfunction of pulmonary microvascular endothelial barrier induced by a hyperinflammatory immune response. However, the potential mechanisms of such an imbalance in pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells (PMVECs) are not yet understood. Purpose: Explore the molecular mechanism of endothelial barrier dysfunction induced by inflammatory immune cytokines in ARDS, and find a therapeutic target for this syndrome. Methods: Rat PMVECs were cultured to form a monolayer. Immunofluorescence, flow cytometry, and Western blotting were selected to detect the distribution and the expression level of phosphorylated Ezrin protein and Ezrin protein. Transendothelial electrical resistance (TER) and transendothelial fluxes of fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-labeled bovine serum albumin (BSA) were utilized to measure the permeability of the cell monolayer. Ezrin short hairpin RNA (shRNA) and Ezrin 567-site threonine mutant (EzrinT567A) were used to examine the role of Ezrin protein and phosphorylated Ezrin protein in endothelial response induced by tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), respectively. The function of focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and Ras homolog gene family, member A (RhoA) signaling pathways were estimated by inhibitors and RhoA/FAK shRNA in TNF-α-stimulated rat PMVECs. The activation of FAK and RhoA was assessed by Western blotting or pull-down assay plus Western blotting. Results: The TER was decreased after TNF-α treatment, while the Ezrin protein phosphorylation was increased in a time- and dose-dependent manner. The phosphorylated Ezrin protein was localized primarily at the cell periphery, resulting in filamentous actin (F-actin) rearrangement, followed by a significant decrease in TER and increase in fluxes of FITC-BSA. Moreover, FAK and RhoA signaling pathways were required in the phosphorylation of Ezrin protein, and the former positively regulated the latter. Conclusion: The phosphorylated Ezrin protein was induced by TNF-α via the FAK/RhoA signaling pathway leading to endothelial hyperpermeability in PMVECs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qun Zhou
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Department of Geriatric Respiratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Jianjun Jiang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Guanjun Chen
- The Center for Scientific Research of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Cheng Qian
- The Center for Scientific Research of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Gengyun Sun
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
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Dawson JC, Serrels A, Stupack DG, Schlaepfer DD, Frame MC. Targeting FAK in anticancer combination therapies. Nat Rev Cancer 2021; 21:313-324. [PMID: 33731845 PMCID: PMC8276817 DOI: 10.1038/s41568-021-00340-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 162] [Impact Index Per Article: 54.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Focal adhesion kinase (FAK) is both a non-receptor tyrosine kinase and an adaptor protein that primarily regulates adhesion signalling and cell migration, but FAK can also promote cell survival in response to stress. FAK is commonly overexpressed in cancer and is considered a high-value druggable target, with multiple FAK inhibitors currently in development. Evidence suggests that in the clinical setting, FAK targeting will be most effective in combination with other agents so as to reverse failure of chemotherapies or targeted therapies and enhance efficacy of immune-based treatments of solid tumours. Here, we discuss the recent preclinical evidence that implicates FAK in anticancer therapeutic resistance, leading to the view that FAK inhibitors will have their greatest utility as combination therapies in selected patient populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- John C Dawson
- Cancer Research UK Edinburgh Centre, Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.
| | - Alan Serrels
- Centre for Inflammation Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Dwayne G Stupack
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego Moores Cancer Centre, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - David D Schlaepfer
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego Moores Cancer Centre, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Margaret C Frame
- Cancer Research UK Edinburgh Centre, Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.
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Zhao Y, Xiao W, Peng W, Huang Q, Wu K, Evans CE, Liu X, Jin H. Oridonin-Loaded Nanoparticles Inhibit Breast Cancer Progression Through Regulation of ROS-Related Nrf2 Signaling Pathway. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2021; 9:600579. [PMID: 33898397 PMCID: PMC8058419 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2021.600579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2020] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Oridonin (ORI) has been shown to inhibit tumor cell growth and proliferation in vitro, while its optimum anti-tumor activity in vivo is limited due to the poor aqueous solubility and bioavailability. In this study, to improve the bioavailability, we developed a nanoparticle-based drug delivery system to facilitate delivery of ORI to breast tumor. ORI was encapsulated in biodegradable nanoparticles (NPs) based on poly-lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) and polyethylene glycol (PEG) to form ORI NPs (ORI-NPs). The resulting ORI-NPs exhibited a mean particle diameter of 100 nm and displayed an efficient cellular uptake by human breast cancer MCF-7 cells. Compared to free ORI that showed no effects on tumor cell proliferation, the ORI-NPs showed significant cytotoxicity and delayed endothelial cell migration, tube formation and angiogenesis. Pharmacokinetics studies showed that ORI-NPs significantly increased the half-life of ORI in the blood circulation. In the nude mouse xenograft model, ORI-NPs markedly inhibited tumor growth and angiogenesis, while ORI did not show any inhibitory effects on the growth of tumor xenografts. The mechanism experiments showed that the antitumor activity of ORI-NPs against breast cancer might be through ROS related Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway. Together, these results demonstrated that ORI-loaded PEG-PLGA NPs enhanced bioactivity and bioavailability in vivo over ORI, indicating that ORI-NPs may represent a promisingly effective candidate against breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Zhao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, The Scientific Research Center of Dongguan, College of Pharmacy, Institute of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China.,Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, China
| | - Weiwei Xiao
- Biosafety Level-3 Laboratory, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Public Health, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wanqing Peng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, The Scientific Research Center of Dongguan, College of Pharmacy, Institute of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
| | - Qinghua Huang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, The Scientific Research Center of Dongguan, College of Pharmacy, Institute of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
| | - Kunru Wu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, The Scientific Research Center of Dongguan, College of Pharmacy, Institute of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
| | - Colin E Evans
- Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Xinguang Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, The Scientific Research Center of Dongguan, College of Pharmacy, Institute of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
| | - Hua Jin
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Diagnostics, The Scientific Research Center of Dongguan, College of Pharmacy, Institute of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Guangdong Medical University, Dongguan, China
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Crippa M, Bersini S, Gilardi M, Arrigoni C, Gamba S, Falanga A, Candrian C, Dubini G, Vanoni M, Moretti M. A microphysiological early metastatic niche on a chip reveals how heterotypic cell interactions and inhibition of integrin subunit β 3 impact breast cancer cell extravasation. LAB ON A CHIP 2021; 21:1061-1072. [PMID: 33522559 DOI: 10.1039/d0lc01011a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
During metastatic progression multiple players establish competitive mechanisms, whereby cancer cells (CCs) are exposed to both pro- and anti-metastatic stimuli. The early metastatic niche (EMN) is a transient microenvironment which forms in the circulation during CC dissemination. EMN is characterized by the crosstalk among CCs, platelets, leukocytes and endothelial cells (ECs), increasing CC ability to extravasate and colonize secondary tissues. To better understand this complex crosstalk, we designed a human "EMN-on-a-chip" which involves the presence of blood cells as compared to standard metastases-on-chip models, hence providing a microenvironment more similar to the in vivo situation. We showed that CC transendothelial migration (TEM) was significantly increased in the presence of neutrophils and platelets in the EMN-on-a-chip compared to CC alone. Moreover, exploiting the EMN-on-chip in combination with multi-culture experiments, we showed that platelets increased the expression of epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers in CCs and that the addition of a clinically approved antiplatelet drug (eptifibatide, inhibiting integrin β3) impaired platelet aggregation and decreased CC expression of EMT markers. Inhibition of integrin β3 in the co-culture system modulated the activation of the Src-FAK-VE-cadherin signaling axis and partially restored the architecture of inter-endothelial junctions by limiting VE-cadherinY658 phosphorylation and its nuclear localization. These observations correlate with the decreased CC TEM observed in the presence of integrin β3 inhibitor. Our EMN-on-a-chip can be easily implemented for drug repurposing studies and to investigate new candidate molecules counteracting CC extravasation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Crippa
- Regenerative Medicine Technologies Lab, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale (EOC), Via Tesserete 46, 6900 Lugano, Switzerland.
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Rigiracciolo DC, Cirillo F, Talia M, Muglia L, Gutkind JS, Maggiolini M, Lappano R. Focal Adhesion Kinase Fine Tunes Multifaced Signals toward Breast Cancer Progression. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13040645. [PMID: 33562737 PMCID: PMC7915897 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13040645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer represents the most common diagnosed malignancy and the main leading cause of tumor-related death among women worldwide. Therefore, several efforts have been made in order to identify valuable molecular biomarkers for the prognosis and prediction of therapeutic responses in breast tumor patients. In this context, emerging discoveries have indicated that focal adhesion kinase (FAK), a non-receptor tyrosine kinase, might represent a promising target involved in breast tumorigenesis. Of note, high FAK expression and activity have been tightly correlated with a poor clinical outcome and metastatic features in several tumors, including breast cancer. Recently, a role for the integrin-FAK signaling in mechanotransduction has been suggested and the function of FAK within the breast tumor microenvironment has been ascertained toward tumor angiogenesis and vascular permeability. FAK has been also involved in cancer stem cells (CSCs)-mediated initiation, maintenance and therapeutic responses of breast tumors. In addition, the potential of FAK to elicit breast tumor-promoting effects has been even associated with the capability to modulate immune responses. On the basis of these findings, several agents targeting FAK have been exploited in diverse preclinical tumor models. Here, we recapitulate the multifaceted action exerted by FAK and its prognostic significance in breast cancer. Moreover, we highlight the recent clinical evidence regarding the usefulness of FAK inhibitors in the treatment of breast tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damiano Cosimo Rigiracciolo
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy; (F.C.); (M.T.); (L.M.); (R.L.)
- Correspondence: (D.C.R.); (M.M.)
| | - Francesca Cirillo
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy; (F.C.); (M.T.); (L.M.); (R.L.)
| | - Marianna Talia
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy; (F.C.); (M.T.); (L.M.); (R.L.)
| | - Lucia Muglia
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy; (F.C.); (M.T.); (L.M.); (R.L.)
| | - Jorge Silvio Gutkind
- Department of Pharmacology, Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA;
| | - Marcello Maggiolini
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy; (F.C.); (M.T.); (L.M.); (R.L.)
- Correspondence: (D.C.R.); (M.M.)
| | - Rosamaria Lappano
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy; (F.C.); (M.T.); (L.M.); (R.L.)
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Nikolopoulou PA, Koufaki MA, Kostourou V. The Adhesome Network: Key Components Shaping the Tumour Stroma. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:525. [PMID: 33573141 PMCID: PMC7866493 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13030525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Beyond the conventional perception of solid tumours as mere masses of cancer cells, advanced cancer research focuses on the complex contributions of tumour-associated host cells that are known as "tumour microenvironment" (TME). It has been long appreciated that the tumour stroma, composed mainly of blood vessels, cancer-associated fibroblasts and immune cells, together with the extracellular matrix (ECM), define the tumour architecture and influence cancer cell properties. Besides soluble cues, that mediate the crosstalk between tumour and stroma cells, cell adhesion to ECM arises as a crucial determinant in cancer progression. In this review, we discuss how adhesome, the intracellular protein network formed at cell adhesions, regulate the TME and control malignancy. The role of adhesome extends beyond the physical attachment of cells to ECM and the regulation of cytoskeletal remodelling and acts as a signalling and mechanosensing hub, orchestrating cellular responses that shape the tumour milieu.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Vassiliki Kostourou
- Biomedical Sciences Research Centre “Alexander Fleming”, Institute of Bioinnovation, 34 Fleming Str., 16672 Vari-Athens, Greece; (P.A.N.); (M.A.K.)
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Claesson-Welsh L, Dejana E, McDonald DM. Permeability of the Endothelial Barrier: Identifying and Reconciling Controversies. Trends Mol Med 2020; 27:314-331. [PMID: 33309601 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2020.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 252] [Impact Index Per Article: 63.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Revised: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Leakage from blood vessels into tissues is governed by mechanisms that control endothelial barrier function to maintain homeostasis. Dysregulated endothelial permeability contributes to many conditions and can influence disease morbidity and treatment. Diverse approaches used to study endothelial permeability have yielded a wealth of valuable insights. Yet, ongoing questions, technical challenges, and unresolved controversies relating to the mechanisms and relative contributions of barrier regulation, transendothelial sieving, and transport of fluid, solutes, and particulates complicate interpretations in the context of vascular physiology and pathophysiology. Here, we describe recent in vivo findings and other advances in understanding endothelial barrier function with the goal of identifying and reconciling controversies over cellular and molecular processes that regulate the vascular barrier in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lena Claesson-Welsh
- Uppsala University, Rudbeck, SciLifeLab and Beijer Laboratories, Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Elisabetta Dejana
- Uppsala University, Rudbeck, SciLifeLab and Beijer Laboratories, Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala, Sweden; IFOM-FIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology, Milan, Italy
| | - Donald M McDonald
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA; UCSF Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA; Department of Anatomy, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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Hilfenhaus G, Mompeón A, Freshman J, Prajapati DP, Hernandez G, Freitas VM, Ma F, Langenbacher AD, Mirkov S, Song D, Cho BK, Goo YA, Pellegrini M, Chen JN, Damoiseaux R, Iruela-Arispe ML. A High-Content Screen Identifies Drugs That Restrict Tumor Cell Extravasation across the Endothelial Barrier. Cancer Res 2020; 81:619-633. [PMID: 33218969 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-19-3911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2019] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Metastases largely rely on hematogenous dissemination of tumor cells via the vascular system and significantly limit prognosis of patients with solid tumors. To colonize distant sites, circulating tumor cells must destabilize the endothelial barrier and transmigrate across the vessel wall. Here we performed a high-content screen to identify drugs that block tumor cell extravasation by testing 3,520 compounds on a transendothelial invasion coculture assay. Hits were further characterized and validated using a series of in vitro assays, a zebrafish model enabling three-dimensional (3D) visualization of tumor cell extravasation, and mouse models of lung metastasis. The initial screen advanced 38 compounds as potential hits, of which, four compounds enhanced endothelial barrier stability while concurrently suppressing tumor cell motility. Two compounds niclosamide and forskolin significantly reduced tumor cell extravasation in zebrafish, and niclosamide drastically impaired metastasis in mice. Because niclosamide had not previously been linked with effects on barrier function, single-cell RNA sequencing uncovered mechanistic effects of the drug on both tumor and endothelial cells. Importantly, niclosamide affected homotypic and heterotypic signaling critical to intercellular junctions, cell-matrix interactions, and cytoskeletal regulation. Proteomic analysis indicated that niclosamide-treated mice also showed reduced levels of kininogen, the precursor to the permeability mediator bradykinin. Our findings designate niclosamide as an effective drug that restricts tumor cell extravasation through modulation of signaling pathways, chemokines, and tumor-endothelial cell interactions. SIGNIFICANCE: A high-content screen identified niclosamide as an effective drug that restricts tumor cell extravasation by enhancing endothelial barrier stability through modulation of molecular signaling, chemokines, and tumor-endothelial cell interactions. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT: http://cancerres.aacrjournals.org/content/canres/81/3/619/F1.large.jpg.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georg Hilfenhaus
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Ana Mompeón
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Jonathan Freshman
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Divya P Prajapati
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Gloria Hernandez
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Vanessa M Freitas
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Feiyang Ma
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Adam D Langenbacher
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Snezana Mirkov
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Dana Song
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Byoung-Kyu Cho
- Proteomics Center of Excellence, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Young Ah Goo
- Proteomics Center of Excellence, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Matteo Pellegrini
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Jau-Nian Chen
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Robert Damoiseaux
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
- California NanoSystems Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - M Luisa Iruela-Arispe
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California.
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
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Zaghdoudi S, Decaup E, Belhabib I, Samain R, Cassant‐Sourdy S, Rochotte J, Brunel A, Schlaepfer D, Cros J, Neuzillet C, Strehaiano M, Alard A, Tomasini R, Rajeeve V, Perraud A, Mathonnet M, Pearce OMT, Martineau Y, Pyronnet S, Bousquet C, Jean C. FAK activity in cancer-associated fibroblasts is a prognostic marker and a druggable key metastatic player in pancreatic cancer. EMBO Mol Med 2020; 12:e12010. [PMID: 33025708 PMCID: PMC7645544 DOI: 10.15252/emmm.202012010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Revised: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are considered the most abundant type of stromal cells in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), playing a critical role in tumour progression and chemoresistance; however, a druggable target on CAFs has not yet been identified. Here we report that focal adhesion kinase (FAK) activity (evaluated based on 397 tyrosine phosphorylation level) in CAFs is highly increased compared to its activity in fibroblasts from healthy pancreas. Fibroblastic FAK activity is an independent prognostic marker for disease-free and overall survival of PDAC patients (cohort of 120 PDAC samples). Genetic inactivation of FAK within fibroblasts (FAK kinase-dead, KD) reduces fibrosis and immunosuppressive cell number within primary tumours and dramatically decreases tumour spread. FAK pharmacologic or genetic inactivation reduces fibroblast migration/invasion, decreases extracellular matrix (ECM) expression and deposition by CAFs, modifies ECM track generation and negatively impacts M2 macrophage polarization and migration. Thus, FAK activity within CAFs appears as an independent PDAC prognostic marker and a druggable driver of tumour cell invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Zaghdoudi
- Cancer Research Center of Toulouse (CRCT)team 6 “Protein synthesis & secretion in carcinogenesis”Equipe labellisée Ligue Contre Le CancerLabex TOUCANINSERM UMR 1037‐ University Toulouse III Paul SabatierToulouseFrance
| | - Emilie Decaup
- Cancer Research Center of Toulouse (CRCT)team 6 “Protein synthesis & secretion in carcinogenesis”Equipe labellisée Ligue Contre Le CancerLabex TOUCANINSERM UMR 1037‐ University Toulouse III Paul SabatierToulouseFrance
| | - Ismahane Belhabib
- Cancer Research Center of Toulouse (CRCT)team 6 “Protein synthesis & secretion in carcinogenesis”Equipe labellisée Ligue Contre Le CancerLabex TOUCANINSERM UMR 1037‐ University Toulouse III Paul SabatierToulouseFrance
| | - Rémi Samain
- Cancer Research Center of Toulouse (CRCT)team 6 “Protein synthesis & secretion in carcinogenesis”Equipe labellisée Ligue Contre Le CancerLabex TOUCANINSERM UMR 1037‐ University Toulouse III Paul SabatierToulouseFrance
| | - Stéphanie Cassant‐Sourdy
- Cancer Research Center of Toulouse (CRCT)team 6 “Protein synthesis & secretion in carcinogenesis”Equipe labellisée Ligue Contre Le CancerLabex TOUCANINSERM UMR 1037‐ University Toulouse III Paul SabatierToulouseFrance
| | - Julia Rochotte
- Cancer Research Center of Toulouse (CRCT)team 6 “Protein synthesis & secretion in carcinogenesis”Equipe labellisée Ligue Contre Le CancerLabex TOUCANINSERM UMR 1037‐ University Toulouse III Paul SabatierToulouseFrance
| | - Alexia Brunel
- Cancer Research Center of Toulouse (CRCT)team 6 “Protein synthesis & secretion in carcinogenesis”Equipe labellisée Ligue Contre Le CancerLabex TOUCANINSERM UMR 1037‐ University Toulouse III Paul SabatierToulouseFrance
| | - David Schlaepfer
- Department of Reproductive Medicine Moores Cancer CenterUniversity of California San DiegoLa JollaCAUSA
| | - Jérome Cros
- Department of PathologyBeaujon HospitalINSERM U1149ClichyFrance
| | - Cindy Neuzillet
- Medical Oncology DepartmentCurie InstituteVersailles Saint‐Quentin UniversitySaint‐CloudFrance
| | - Manon Strehaiano
- Cancer Research Center of Toulouse (CRCT)team 6 “Protein synthesis & secretion in carcinogenesis”Equipe labellisée Ligue Contre Le CancerLabex TOUCANINSERM UMR 1037‐ University Toulouse III Paul SabatierToulouseFrance
| | - Amandine Alard
- Cancer Research Center of Toulouse (CRCT)team 6 “Protein synthesis & secretion in carcinogenesis”Equipe labellisée Ligue Contre Le CancerLabex TOUCANINSERM UMR 1037‐ University Toulouse III Paul SabatierToulouseFrance
| | | | - Vinothini Rajeeve
- Centre for Genomics and Computational BiologyBarts Cancer InstituteQueen Mary University of LondonLondonUK
| | - Aurélie Perraud
- EA 3842 Laboratory, Medicine and Pharmacy FacultiesLimoges UniversityLimogesFrance
| | - Muriel Mathonnet
- EA 3842 Laboratory, Medicine and Pharmacy FacultiesLimoges UniversityLimogesFrance
| | - Oliver MT Pearce
- Centre for Tumour MicroenvironmentBarts Cancer InstituteLondonUK
| | - Yvan Martineau
- Cancer Research Center of Toulouse (CRCT)team 6 “Protein synthesis & secretion in carcinogenesis”Equipe labellisée Ligue Contre Le CancerLabex TOUCANINSERM UMR 1037‐ University Toulouse III Paul SabatierToulouseFrance
| | - Stéphane Pyronnet
- Cancer Research Center of Toulouse (CRCT)team 6 “Protein synthesis & secretion in carcinogenesis”Equipe labellisée Ligue Contre Le CancerLabex TOUCANINSERM UMR 1037‐ University Toulouse III Paul SabatierToulouseFrance
| | - Corinne Bousquet
- Cancer Research Center of Toulouse (CRCT)team 6 “Protein synthesis & secretion in carcinogenesis”Equipe labellisée Ligue Contre Le CancerLabex TOUCANINSERM UMR 1037‐ University Toulouse III Paul SabatierToulouseFrance
| | - Christine Jean
- Cancer Research Center of Toulouse (CRCT)team 6 “Protein synthesis & secretion in carcinogenesis”Equipe labellisée Ligue Contre Le CancerLabex TOUCANINSERM UMR 1037‐ University Toulouse III Paul SabatierToulouseFrance
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Al-Khafaji K, Taskin Tok T. Molecular dynamics simulation, free energy landscape and binding free energy computations in exploration the anti-invasive activity of amygdalin against metastasis. COMPUTER METHODS AND PROGRAMS IN BIOMEDICINE 2020; 195:105660. [PMID: 32726718 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmpb.2020.105660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Historically, amygdalin has been used as alternative medicine or in vitro and in vivo studies, but no single study exists which discusses the structural mechanism of amygdalin at a molecular level. This paper inquiries into the inhibitory actions of amygdalin on the selected targets: AKT1, FAK, and ILK, which are regulators for various mediated signaling pathways, and are associated with cell adhesion, migration, and differentiation. In order to get details at the molecular level of amygdalin's inhibitory activities against chosen proteins, molecular modeling and simulation techniques including double docking, molecular dynamics simulation, free energy landscape analysis, and binding free energy calculation were exerted. METHODS To get molecular level details of amygdalin inhibitory effects against the relevant proteins; here the utilized tools are the following: the double docking, molecular dynamics simulation, free energy landscape analysis, g_mmpbsa, and interaction entropy were used to evaluate the inhibitory activity against targeted proteins. RESULTS The computational calculations revealed that amygdalin inhibits the selected targets via block the ATP-binding pocket of AKT1, FAK, and ILK by forming stable hydrogen bonds. Moreover, free energy landscape, FEL exposed that amygdalin stabilized the global conformations of both FAK and ILK proteins to the minimum global energy besides it reduced the essential dynamics of FAK and ILK proteins. MMPBSA computations provided further evidence for amygdalin's stability inside the ATP-binding pocket of AKT1, FAK, and ILK with a binding free energy of 45.067, -13.033, 13.109 kJ/mol, respectively. The binding free energies are lastly consistent with the hydrogen bonding and pairs within 0.35 nm results. The decomposition of binding energy shows the pivotal amino acid residues responsible for the stability of amygdalin's interactions inside the ATP-binding sites by forming hydrogen bonds. CONCLUSIONS Before this work, it was enigmatic to make predictions about how amygdalin inhibits metastasis of cancer. But the computational results contribute in several ways to our understanding of amygdalin activity and provide a basic insight into the activity of amygdalin as a multi-target drug in the metastasis and invasion of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khattab Al-Khafaji
- Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Department of Chemistry, Gaziantep University, 27310 Gaziantep, Turkey
| | - Tugba Taskin Tok
- Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Department of Chemistry, Gaziantep University, 27310 Gaziantep, Turkey; Institute of Health Sciences, Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Gaziantep University, 27310 Gaziantep, Turkey.
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Roy-Luzarraga M, Abdel-Fatah T, Reynolds LE, Clear A, Taylor JG, Gribben JG, Chan S, Jones L, Hodivala-Dilke K. Association of Low Tumor Endothelial Cell pY397-Focal Adhesion Kinase Expression With Survival in Patients With Neoadjuvant-Treated Locally Advanced Breast Cancer. JAMA Netw Open 2020; 3:e2019304. [PMID: 33107920 PMCID: PMC7592032 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2020.19304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Determining the risk of relapse after neoadjuvant chemotherapy in patients with locally advanced breast cancer is required to offer alternative therapeutic strategies. OBJECTIVE To examine whether endothelial cell phosphorylated-focal adhesion kinase (EC-pY397-FAK) expression in patients with treatment-naive locally advanced breast cancer is a biomarker for chemotherapy sensitivity and is associated with survival after neoadjuvant chemotherapy. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS In this prognostic study, expression levels of EC-pY397-FAK and tumor cell (TC)-pY397-FAK were determined by immunohistochemistry in prechemotherapy core biopsies from 82 female patients with locally advanced breast cancer treated with anthracycline-based combination neoadjuvant chemotherapy at Nottingham City Hospital in Nottingham, UK. Median follow-up time was 67 months. The study was conducted from December 1, 2010, to September 28, 2019, and data analysis was performed from October 2, 2019, to March 31, 2020. EXPOSURES All women underwent surgery followed by adjuvant radiotherapy and, if tumors were estrogen receptor-positive, 5-year tamoxifen treatment. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Outcomes were pathologic complete response and 5-year relapse-free survival examined using Kaplan-Meier, univariable logistic, multivariable logistic, and Cox proportional hazards models. RESULTS A total of 82 women (age, 29-76 years) with locally advanced breast cancer (stage IIA-IIIC) were included. Of these, 21 women (26%) had high EC-pY397-FAK expression that was associated with estrogen receptor positivity (71% vs 46%; P = .04), progesterone receptor positivity (67% vs 39%; P = .03), high Ki67 (86% vs 41%; P < .001), 4-immunohistochemically stained luminal-B (52% vs 8%; P < .001), higher tumor category (T3/T4 category: 90% vs 59%; P = .01), high lymph node category (N2-3 category: 43% vs 5%; P < .001), and high tumor node metastasis stage (IIIA-IIIC: 90% vs 66%; P = .03). Of 21 patients with high EC-pY397-FAK expression levels, none showed pathologic complete response, compared with 11 of 61 patients with low EC-pY397-FAK expression levels who showed pathologic complete response (odds ratio, 0.70; 95% CI, 0.61-0.82; P = .04). High EC-pY397-FAK expression levels and high blood vessel density (BVD) were associated with shorter 5-year relapse-free survival compared with those with low EC-pY397-FAK expression levels (hazard ratio [HR], 2.21; 95% CI, 1.17-4.20; P = .01) and low BVD (HR, 2.2; 95% CI, 1.15-4.35; P = .02). High TC-pY397-FAK expression levels in 15 of 82 women (18%) were not associated significantly with pathologic complete response or 5-year relapse-free survival. A multivariable Cox regression model for 5-year relapse-free survival indicated that high EC-pY397-FAK expression levels was an independent poor prognostic factor after controlling for other validated prognostic factors (HR, 3.91; 95% CI, 1.42-10.74; P = .01). Combined analysis of EC-pY397-FAK expression levels, TC-pY397-FAK expression levels, and BVD improved prognostic significance over individually tested features. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE The findings of this study suggest that low EC-pY397-FAK expression levels are associated with chemotherapy sensitivity and improved 5-year relapse-free survival after systemic therapy. Combined analysis of high EC-pY397-FAK expression levels, high TC-pY397-FAK expression levels, and high BVD appeared to identify a high-risk population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Roy-Luzarraga
- Centre for Tumour Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, John Vane Science Centre, London, United Kingdom
| | - Tarek Abdel-Fatah
- Department of Clinical Oncology, University of Nottingham and Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, United Kingdom
- Pathology Department, National Liver Institute, Minoufyia University, Al Minufiyah, Egypt
| | - Louise E. Reynolds
- Centre for Tumour Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, John Vane Science Centre, London, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew Clear
- Centre for Haemato-Oncology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, John Vane Science Centre, London, United Kingdom
| | - Joseph G. Taylor
- Centre for Haemato-Oncology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, John Vane Science Centre, London, United Kingdom
| | - John G. Gribben
- Centre for Haemato-Oncology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, John Vane Science Centre, London, United Kingdom
| | - Stephen Chan
- Department of Clinical Oncology, University of Nottingham and Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Louise Jones
- Centre for Tumour Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, John Vane Science Centre, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kairbaan Hodivala-Dilke
- Centre for Tumour Biology, Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, John Vane Science Centre, London, United Kingdom
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Lv J, An J, Zhang YD, Li ZX, Zhao GL, Gao J, Hu WW, Chen HM, Li AM, Jiang QS. A three serum miRNA panel as diagnostic biomarkers of radiotherapy-related metastasis in non-small cell lung cancer. Oncol Lett 2020; 20:236. [PMID: 32968458 PMCID: PMC7500041 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2020.12099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2019] [Accepted: 07/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Serum microRNAs (miRNAs) have been implicated as noninvasive biomarkers for lung cancer diagnosis. However, there are no sensitive and specific biomarkers for the detection of radiotherapy-related non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) metastasis. The present study aimed to investigate the role of three serum miRNAs, namely miRNA (miR)-130a, miR-25 and miR-191*, in diagnosing NSCLC, and their biological functions in radiation-mediated development of metastatic properties in A549 cells. To determine this, serum samples were collected from 84 patients with NSCLC and 42 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Differential expression of serum miRNAs was analyzed by quantitative PCR. Significant associations between miRNA expression and overall survival of patients with NSCLC were identified using the Cox proportional regression model. A receiver operating characteristic curve was generated to evaluate diagnostic accuracy. The functions of miR-130a, miR-25 and miR-191* in lung cancer cells were studied by transfecting A549 cells with miRNA mimics and inhibitors. The results of the present study demonstrated that the expression levels of miR-130a, miR-25 and miR-191* in the serum of patients with NSCLC were increased compared with those in healthy controls, and these increases were associated with advanced age (≥60 years), radiotherapy, histological type (squamous carcinoma), low survival rate and low median survival time. Additionally, irradiation induced the upregulation of miR-130a, miR-25 and miR-191* expression in A549 cells in vitro and in a xenograft mouse model. Irradiation also promoted the invasiveness of A549 cells in vitro and metastasis in vivo. In conclusion, miR-130a, miR-25 and miR-191* may be potential biomarkers for the diagnosis of patients with NSCLC and may serve oncogenic roles in radiation-mediated metastasis of NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Lv
- Research Department, PLA Rocket Force Characteristic Medical Center, Beijing 100088, P.R. China
| | - Juan An
- Department of Oncology, PLA Rocket Force Characteristic Medical Center, Beijing 100088, P.R. China
| | - Yang-Dong Zhang
- Research Department, PLA Rocket Force Characteristic Medical Center, Beijing 100088, P.R. China
| | - Zhao-Xia Li
- Department of Oncology, PLA Rocket Force Characteristic Medical Center, Beijing 100088, P.R. China
| | - Guang-Li Zhao
- Health Management Division, PLA Rocket Force Characteristic Medical Center, Beijing 100088, P.R. China
| | - Jun Gao
- Research Department, PLA Rocket Force Characteristic Medical Center, Beijing 100088, P.R. China
| | - Wen-Wei Hu
- Department of Endoscopy, PLA Rocket Force Characteristic Medical Center, Beijing 100088, P.R. China
| | - Huo-Ming Chen
- Department of Oncology, PLA Rocket Force Characteristic Medical Center, Beijing 100088, P.R. China
| | - Ai-Min Li
- Research Department, PLA Rocket Force Characteristic Medical Center, Beijing 100088, P.R. China.,Department of General Surgery, Beijing Luhe Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 101149, P.R. China
| | - Qi-Sheng Jiang
- Research Department, PLA Rocket Force Characteristic Medical Center, Beijing 100088, P.R. China
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Zakaria MA, Rajab NF, Chua EW, Selvarajah GT, Masre SF. The Roles of Tissue Rigidity and Its Underlying Mechanisms in Promoting Tumor Growth. Cancer Invest 2020; 38:445-462. [PMID: 32713210 DOI: 10.1080/07357907.2020.1802474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Tissues become more rigid during tumorigenesis and have been identified as a driving factor for tumor growth. Here, we highlight the concept of tissue rigidity, contributing factors that increase tissue rigidity, and mechanisms that promote tumor growth initiated by increased tissue rigidity. Various factors lead to increased tissue rigidity, promoting tumor growth by activating focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and Rho-associated kinase (ROCK). Consequently, result in recruitment of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and tumor protection from immunosurveillance. We also discussed the rationale for targeting tumor tissue rigidity and its potential for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Asyaari Zakaria
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Biomedical Science Programme, Centre for Toxicology & Health Risk Studies, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Nor Fadilah Rajab
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Centre for Healthy Ageing and Wellness, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Eng Wee Chua
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Gayathri Thevi Selvarajah
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Veterinary Clinical Studies, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Serdang, Malaysia
| | - Siti Fathiah Masre
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Biomedical Science Programme, Centre for Toxicology & Health Risk Studies, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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